LG 60PZ550 Review

60" LG Plasma TV

Picture and Viewing Feaures

Last year LG introduced the LG 60PK550 with many of the features shown on this newer, improved 60PZ550. Included with the PK550 was the "TruBlack" filter which was and is designed to provide better black levels even in brightly lit rooms. This years 60PZ550 continues with this feature while providing THX Certification. We measure the post calibration contrast of the 60PK550 plasma from 2010 at an impressive 1835:1, so we know the black level in this model will be good. The PZ550 lacks some of the HD upconversion and 3:2 pulldown processing of the higher end plasmas but this has the PZ550 at a llower price point.

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

Appearance

The PZ550 has a thin black bezel surrounding the panel and doesn't have the single pane of glass covering the entire front like the higher end LG plasmas. It's still a rather good looking television even if it is a bit understated.

Standout Features

3D Compatibility is a standout feature of the PZ550, unlike their LED and LCD televisions LG is sticking with active 3D with their plasma televisions.

Another new feature is for the 50PZ550 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.

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

• 60" screen class (59.8" diagonal screen size)
• 16:9 native aspect ratio with 5 aspect correction modes
• ENERGY STAR certified
• 4 HDMI v1.4a inputs with Deep Color and ARC
• 2 component video + L/R audio inputs; 2 composite AV inputs; PC input; 2 USB 2.0 inputs; RF in
• Dolby Digital decoder; Infinite Sound system with Clear Voice II, Auto Volume Leveler II and 5 sound modes
• Built in 1-way 10W + 10W (@10% THD) speaker system
• ±20° tabletop swivel stand included; 600mm x 400mm VESA compliant
• Includes standard remote control; LAN, RS-232c, Remote Control, and Wireless IR inputs
• 3D-ready (requires additional equipment); Capable of 2D to artificial 3D upconversion
• 600Hz max sub-field drive
• DLNA-certified
• NetCast Entertainment Access
• Wi-Fi ready (with additional adapter)
• TruSlim frame
• Full HD 1920 x 1080p resolution
• Picture Wizard II (Easy Picture Calibration)
• Dual XD Engine with XD Color (active color management)
• 10 picture modes and 3 color temperature control modes
• ISFccc ready
• 3 Image Sticking Minimization modes
• 24p Real Cinema mode (3:3 pulldown)
• x.v.Color
• Smart Energy Saving with On, Off, and Sleep timers and Auto Off/Auto Sleep without signal
• Input labeling
• Parental Control with V-Chip
• SimpLink (HDMI-CEC)
• Digital optical audio output
• 203W average consumption; 0.2W in standby
• Dimensions (with/without stand): 54.7"/54.7" W x 35.6"/32.9" H x 13.2"/2.0" D
• Weight (with/without stand): 93.9 lbs/84.9 lbs