LG Infinia 50PZ750 Review

50" LG Infinia Plasma TV

Picture and Viewing Feaures

Picture Gallery

Last year LG introduced the LG 50PK750 with many of the features shown on this newer, improved 50PZ750. Included with the PK750 was the "TruBlack" filter which was and is designed to provide better black levels even in brightly lit rooms. This years 50PZ750 continues with this feature while providing THX Certification. We measure the post calibration contrast of the 50PK550 plasma from 2010 at an impressive 1835:1, so we know the black level in this model will be good. While we're are not big fans of THX certification due to extra costs associated with obtaining the certification, it does at least allow one to know that quality assurances exist. We prefer our own calibration picture settings to the THX settings found on certified models for one simple reason – the picture looks better. Biased though we may be check out this link to a comparison of our picture settings versus THX preset picture settings.

On screen glare was an area where we've had some issues with the LG plasma offerings of the past.

Appearance

LG Infinia Plasma TV models always contain the seamless glass appearance that we consider a nice design element. The front glass panel extends all the way to the ends of the bezel framing to give the "Infinia" its name and good looks.

Internet Applications and Connectivity

LG is renaming its Internet Apps this year from "Netcast Entertainment" to "SmartTV." There is a simple dashboard contained on the TV menu screen allowing for selection of TV Live, Premium Content, TV Apps, and a Launch Bar. The PZ750 series has LGs new Smart TV Internet TV features meaning that will be able to access all of LG's Internet Apps. Some of the highlighted Internet TV providers are Netflix, Vudu, Cinema Now, You Tube, Hulu Plus. But in addition this year it looks like there will be several partners in the sports industry to stream live sports programming, allowing viewers to follow their favorite teams, stream in HD quality broadcasts, and generally be able to tailor their sports viewing more to their own preferences. More options equal more satisfaction right?

Standout Features

LG's new SmartTV feature looks promising. It contains a web browser so that users can access the Internet directly through the TV. The browser is not the Google TV chrome browser you have probably read about. This is a web kit browser, but still I like having access to the Internet. THX certification while we are not fans does at least vie for a quality picture capability. We would not base a rating on it though.

Another new feature is for the 50PZ750 is the ability to share information from a PC or Laptop via the wireless Smart Share system. Wireless is the key operative here, making displaying information from your Laptop so much easier.

Another innovative feature this year is the motion controlled "Magic Wand" remote. This new remote feature offers a motion controlled cursor which follows hand movement. Once the cursor is on the wanted selection click the remote to select that option. It's a convenient point and click system.

There is no keyboard needed for the system, but there is a QWERTY keyboard option available for download to iPhones or Android application smart phones.

Connections

4 or more HDMI inputs should be plenty on any TV. 1 Component video input should be sufficient for your favorite older DVD player. The main nuance inputs are USB and Ethernet.

Specifications

50" screen class (49.9" diagonal screen size)
16:9 native aspect ratio; 5 correction modes
ENERGY STAR certified
4 HDMI/HDCP inputs; 2 component video + audio inputs; 2 composite AV inputs; PC + audio input; RF input
2 USB 2.0 inputs (music/photo/movie)
Clear Voice II and Auto Volume Leveler II; Dolby Digital decoding
10W + 10W built-in Infinite Surround speaker system with Bass/Treble/Balance adjustment and 5 sound modes
Tabletop ±20° swivel stand included; 400mm x 400mm VESA compatible
Magic Wand and standard remote controls included; RS-232c, Remote, LAN, and IR inputs
1920 x 1080p Full HD resolution
1500 cd/m² brightness
600Hz max sub field drive
3 ISM modes (Anti-image retention)
ISFccc ready
THX-certified Full HD 3D capable (requires additional equipment); Adjustable 2D to artificial 3D upconversion
DLNA certified
Smart TV network capabilities including LG App Store and streaming
Wi-Fi capable (separate adapter required)
Intelligent Sensor mode
Windows 7 Certified
Smart Energy Saving
Picture Wizard II; 3 color temperature modes; 3 AV modes; 10 picture modes
SIMPLINK (HDMI-CEC)
A/V input navigation; Input labeling
24p input capable
On/Off timer; Sleep Timer; Auto Off/Auto Sleep
Dimensions (without/with stand): 46.7"/46.7" W x 28.1"/30.8" H x 2.0"/12.5" D
Weight (without/with stand): 61.5/69.4 lbs.