HDTV Universe

Panasonic TC-P46S1 Review: 46” Plasma HDTV

Up for review: Panasonic TC-P46S1 plasma TV.  The Panasonic TC-P46S1 is a relatively cheaper model from Panasonic, which has the latest Neo PDP plasma panel. This panel is responsible for the higher quality of pictures and the heightened contrast ratio. It is also a promoter of low power consumption, thereby making its position stronger in the industry. It has become a standard norm for all HDTV companies to promote products requiring less power for its functioning.

A review of the Panasonic TC-P46S1 shows that the picture quality is unparalleled by any other HDTV of its competitors. The black levels are sufficiently improved. The Panasonic TC-P46S1 behaves as if it has shut down during perfectly dark scenes. The color however, is in need of serious improvement. The edges of the screen do not show perfect color.

The design of the Panasonic TC-P46S1 has hardly changed much from its previous models. There is perhaps an absence of sharp edges only. The speakers are hidden from view and are camouflaged underneath the panel. The glossy black bezel looks appealing which merges with silver color towards the bottom of the panel. A big power button blends nicely with the smooth bezel. The absence of swivel capability is a great put-off. The HDTV can be placed in one orientation only.

Panasonic TC-P46S1 Features and Specifications Review:

• 46” screen
• Neo PDP
• 1080p resolution
• Full-time 1080 lines Moving Picture Resolution
• VIERA Link™
• VIERA Image Viewer™
• 600 Hz sub-field drive
• AR filter
• Game mode
• 3 HDMI inputs
• 40,000:1 native contrast ratio
• Infinite black panel

The picture adjustments are very few. There is the regular “Contrast” for regular picture adjustment. 4 modes include the Standard mode. There is an additional Custom mode too. There is another Game mode which is like any other Picture mode. It does not interfere with video processing.

Other features include 3 color temperature presets, a C.A.T.S. feature which can sense light and accordingly adjust the pictures, On/Off setting for adjusting video noise and another function to set the black level. The settings are few but are enough for a good picture setting.

Picture-in-picture is absent but the Panasonic TC-P46S1 has developed ways to avoid burn-in. A pixel orbiter deals with the problem and sorts it out as well. A temporary burn-in may occur at times which can be rectified. A review shows that as far as connectivity is concerned, there are 3 HDMI inputs and all the regular inputs. However, it lacks the VGA-style PC input and analog audio output.

The Panasonic TC-P46S1 is a regular HDTV with normal features to cater to the middle-income group. It will be a good addition to any standard home.

HDTVUniverse.com gives Panasonic TC-P46S1 8/10 stars!