Why it's best: The new-for-2012 TC-PST50 builds on the strengths of last year's ST30, which was an impressive package to begin with. Picture quality is improved thanks to deeper black levels, superior color accuracy, and higher light output. Viera Connect online streaming remains largely unchanged. The ST50 is now one of the most compelling TV options today, regardless of price.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: Panasonic's Viera GT50 slots in between the more affordable ST50 and the flagship VT50, and is aimed squarely at home theater enthusiasts who desire additional picture calibration controls. While picture quality is largely similar to the step-down ST50, the GT50 offers THX certification as well as extra connectivity.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: Panasonic's flagship VT30 is one of the best HDTVs on the market today. This top-of-the-line model uses the 'Infinite Black 2 Pro' panel for superior black-level performance, and offers unbeatable picture quality. The VT30 also comes with a comprehensive list of features including native 24p playback, making this the best choice for fans of cinema content.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: The US-only PND7000 is a better value than the top-of-the-line PND8000, with identical styling and nearly all of the latter's features. This sleek plasma television offers amazing picture quality, with support for native 24p content for compatibility with cinema material. Black level performance is also very high with the larger screen sizes, and only Panasonic's VT30 outperforms it when measuring ultimate picture quality.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: The Samsung PN51D550 is a fantastic performer in its price range. While detailed calibration settings are unavailable, this 1080p plasma HDTV offers excellent picture quality out of the box. The entry-level positioning of this model means network connectivity has been omitted, but the generous amount of HD inputs means that your entire home theater can be connected. Due to the glossy screen and bezel, however, glare can become a distracting issue.... Read Full Review
this is a question I have a 50 inch LG plasma. The televison was cut off and when I tried to cut it back on it makes a hissing sound and cuts back off. Could someone please help me to figure out this problem.
I just picked up an LG PZ950 60" and for the money think you can't beat it. THX, 3D, plenty of inputs, tons of online options, nice looking, low energy usage, etc.
The floating blacks on the Pannys concerned me--even with the new models. And the Samsung--while the pic on the 8000 was stunning, the buzzing and cost were crazy high.
Jeff...
Would you go with the new Samsung 64 inch 8000 model or wait for the 65inch Panasonic GT or VT 30? I think comparable price will be the GT30...which do you think would be better..?
Jeff,
At CES Panasonic was showing a 65VT35 as their top line 3D TV. Now it seem they are just releasing the 65VT30. What happened to the 35??
Karl
Does your reviewing take into account the black level problem with the Panasonics? I am/was literally ready to purchase the 54" G25 until I read more into it. The 60" LG is a great value but the buzzing issue plagues those TVs. Is there anything that's high-quality?
This list does take into account the black level issues that plagued the G10 and V10 Panasonic plasmas, and we will be following the G25 for the next several months to keep track of any reports of degrading black levels.
People tend to confuse terminology with regards to television let's take for example the ?plasma television?. Well technically there is no such thing as a plasma television what you are actually referring to is the display and actually a plasma display panel (PDP) is only one of several types of flat panel displays now commonly used for large TV sets or displays.
Technically, a plasma TV is the well-known integration of a PDP, tuner, power supply and the commonly requisite input ports such as HDMI, and are rated as class a or class b devices for use. So, technically, you're misinformed.
I agree with your main point - people are often confused by terminology.
It probably explains why your post even remains when you've somehow seen fit to name yourself "premature ejaculation," just not in English.
Weak.
Very nice articles thank you...
For the money, this is a very good TV. The picture is great, works well with ps3 for bluray.
I have seen this TV at a friend's home. It has a good picture but it is vastly overpriced. You don't need to buy a Panasonic at that price to get a great picture.
It is obvious that your ratings and web site are "Panasonic related".
Thanks for the feedback. You can definitely get a great picture from lower priced plasmas. The Panasonic PX80U series and Samsung A450 series both have great picture quality and can be purchased for around $1000 for the 50" and $700 for the 42". The Vizio 720p models have a very tough time competing because they simply don't perform as well and sell for around the same price.
If you do a side-by-side comparison between the Panasonic TH-50PZ800U and other plasmas, you'll see it is not only superior to lesser expensive units, but comes very close to the more expensive Pioneer Kuro, which is considered to be the best plasma TV money can buy. Its THX mode is also a major advantage because it allows you to achieve a professional-level calibration (color temp very close to 6500K, accurate primary colors, correct brigthness and contrast settings) without hiring a professional or messing around with complicated settings.
The new Vizio XVT-series plasma that will sell for $1600 looks like it will be a serious contender, and I'm looking forward to judging its picture quality and overall performance in person.