Panasonic TC-P42X1 Review – 42-inch Plasma HDTV
Originally Reviewed on May 11th, 2009Panasonic TC-P42X1 Review: 42” Plasma HDTV
Up for review: Panasonic TC-P42X1 42-inch Plasma TV. Panasonic’s 2009 X1 series is built for the budget-minded shopper. It contains some great features and produces a good image but lacks some of the latest additions that most manufacturers are including in their new line-up’s.
The images are quite distinct and clear during fast-action scenes. The resolution of 720p does not interfere much in the picture quality of the HDTV. The 600 Hz sub-field drive is responsible for the clarity and crispness in the images during highly active sports sequences. The fast games available today can be played enthusiastically.
A review of some of the “extras” on the Panasonic TC-P42X1 show the VIERA Image Viewer which allows you to view photos from the SD card slot. You just need to fit your memory card into the slot to see your favorite photos and share it with family and friends. The VIERA Link feature helps you to control all your HD-compatible devices through a single remote. The devices you can control maybe an HD camcorder, a home theater sound system, A DVD recorder or a Blu-ray disc player.
The Panasonic TC-P42X1 has lost out on two key features of the higher-end Panasonic HDTV’s. There is no VIERA Cast and also missing is the Neo PDP panels. The Infinite Black feature improves blackness during dark scenes so you don’t end up with gray scenes. However, there is color quality could be improved.
Panasonic TC-P42X1 Features and Specifications Review:
- 50” screen
- 720p resolution
- Over 900 lines of Moving Resolution
- VIERA Link™
- VIERA Image Viewer™
- 600 Hz sub-field drive
- AR filter
- Game mode
- 3 HDMI inputs
- 30,000:1 native contrast ratio
- Infinite black panel
Bright light is deftly handled by the Panasonic TC-P42X1, but there is a reflection of the images on the screen which plagues most Plasma HDTV’s. The TC-P42X1 does okay with standard definition content but really shines when connected to a high definition source like cable, high definition videos or gaming consoles that support HD.
The TC-P42X1 doesn’t include a VGA input so you can’t connect this one to your computer. The power consumption is however up to the standards. It meets the Energy Star requirements.
Overall, the Panasonic TC-P42X1 is adequate for the average viewer. If you intend on connected a Blu-ray player or other 1080p sources, you’ll be better of spending some extra money.
HDTVUniverse.com gives Panasonic TC-P42X1 7/10 stars!
Binkie's reviewOctober 17, 2009
“The TC-P42X1 doesn’t include a VGA input so you can’t connect this one to your computer.”
What makes you think my computer only has VGA output? Most people planning on using a PC with an HDTV will have better ways to do it, such as via an HDMI port. Then there’s the rest of you, I guess. Welcome to 2009!