42 Plasma TV
Top Recommended 42 Inch Plasma TVs for 2009
Following are our top 5 recommended plasma TVs based upon quality, price and value (in no particular order). Editors choice designations may be given as well from one or more of these three criteria.
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Panasonic TC-P42S1 check prices See Review
42" Plasma TV
The 42" version of the new S1 series from Panasonic the TC-P42S1 shipped in March of 2009 while the larger models will not arrive until summer of 2009. This Viera plasma includes the new NEO plasma display panel with improved blacks and contrast of 40,000:1. It also has 1080p resolution and the THX certification along with 600Hz sub-field drive and Gaming Mode.
Panasonic TC-P42G10 check prices See ReviewEditor's Choice: Value
42" Plasma Television
The Panasonic Viera G10 series contains many of the top end features that will make this line one of the higher priced plasmas on the market. The line entered the market in March of 2009, making it the first new model from Panasonic to reach the market that year. New features include a 600Hz Sub-field Drive for fast processing video signals. It has the new feature "Infinite Black" that Panasonic is touting as it's new black level.
Of course there is 1080p resolution along with SD Memory card slots which allow playback from video recorders and digital camera's that are compatible with Viera Cast , Panasonic's proprietary menu system. While we give no credence to manufacturer contrast ratios, Panasonic boasts an improved native contrast on this series to 40,000:1. All this really means is that the contrast will be better than previous contrasts but we'll have to wait to review the product to report how much. After calibration to D6500 contrast figures will likely be around 400 to 500:1.
Samsung PN42B450 check prices Editor's Choice: Price
42" Plasma TV 720p
At sub $1K prices this plasma is a great buy if price is your primary consideration. Yes it is 720p resolution but that should not hold you back and especially not on a 42" plasma. The plasma is a little dark (even with the highest contrast settings) so don't purchase it for a brighter room environment with lots of ambient light. This new Samsung line has anti glare features which we found largely noneffective.
LG 42PQ30 check prices
42" Plasma TV
On the value end of LG's plasma offerings for 2009 is the 42PQ30 series. These TVs are always great sellers and LG does a good job of competing on the value end with Samsung and Panasonic. One feature that I really like in this plasma model is the Auto Volume Leveler II which helps to reduce large swings in volume output during commercials and when changing channels.
There is also SimpLink connectivity to compatible digital cameras and camcorders. The plasma has 3 HDMI inputs and contains LG's Deep color V.1.3 technology which can add depth and dimension to movies. Lastly, the resolution of 720p (1366 X 768) may seem like yesterdays HD resolution, but since you will be viewing 95% or more of your HD content in either 1080i or 720p these 720p plasmas are the best bang for the buck as the price is always considerably less.
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