Panasonic TC-P54S2

There are a lot of HDTVs out there that try to make a huge impression in the consumer’s eyes by implementing all sorts of technologies to separate the model from similarly sized models. However, many consumers like to think that bigger is always better because they see more detail on the screen. If the price of a TV with a large screen is cheaper, the more people will demand for that. This is why Panasonic is still manufacturing plasma displays. Although some manufacturers consider plasma technology as old, Panasonic is not shy at all about introducing a new series that will convince consumers to give plasma displays another chance. The Panasonic TC-P54S2 is one of the 2010 plasma models and is part of the S2 plasma series where the features are minimal, but the price is affordable.

Panasonic TC-P54S2

Technical Features

The typical TV design may not attract those looking for a stylish or ultra-thin HDTV, but the bezel is something that Panasonic is proud about because unlike other bezels, it is resistant to fingerprints. The design of the bezel remains smooth and is made free from mercury and lead which is a great step forward towards environmental friendliness. This change also contributes to the improved lifespan of the TV. Panasonic calls this bezel the “Clean Touch” bezel.

Another sign that Panasonic plasma TVs are moving forward is their strong direction to better Energy Star standards. All S2 plasma models including the Panasonic TC-P54S2 meet the Energy Star 4.0 requirements proving that the TC-P54S2 is a good investment for getting a large TV that is light on the electricity resulting to more savings. Lifespan has always been an issue in plasma displays and because of their new energy schemes, the TV should last 30 years straight if the average usage is 8 hours a day before the brightness level is reduced.

The Panasonic TC-P54S2 can play full HD video from Blu-ray devices or next generation gaming consoles. It is backed by a nice 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio to add clarity to the experience. 3 HDMI inputs are available to set up a small home theater system. If a gaming console is plugged in, the “Game Mode” option can be used to further improve the visual gaming experience.

Technologies

A couple of technologies grace the Panasonic TC-P54S2 including the NeoPDP panel built right into the TV. This panel adds some quality and value to the experience by tripling the luminous efficiency and reducing power consumption at the same time. Those fond of watching HD movies will be fond of the 600 Hz Sub-field drive addition because it processes motion data and images to increase the speed of frame rendering thus reducing aftereffects.

Extra Features

The Panasonic TC-P54S2 comes with the VIERA Image Viewer which is the most stripped down form of viewers found in VIERA TVs, but it still has its uses. The feature relies on the built-in SD card slot that the TC-P54S2 features allowing people to take out the SD card from their cameras and insert it directly to the TV to preview some large screen photos. Because this is an HDTV, HD images look their best. This feature nicely makes up the lack of a USB port.

Other portable devices that feature HDMI can be hooked up to the Panasonic TC-P54S2 rather easily. However, models with the Panasonic brand can be controlled using the same remote control as the TV thanks to a technology called VIERA Link.

Bottom Line

Consumers have no choice, but to fork out over $1,000 just to get a huge screen. Panasonic does not ask too much from the Panasonic TC-P54S2 which costs around $1,600 because the features are basic and plasma displays are slowly decreasing in demand thanks to the LED TVs out there. Even if $1,600 may seem much, the energy savings is good and the overall design looks like it is ready to serve as the main attraction for any home theater system. Visuals look good and a majority of the disadvantages of the TC-P54S2 are addressed thanks to the improvements of this plasma display done by Panasonic. It is also a good 54-inch model for playing video games in their max resolutions.

Average User Rating:

Actual User Reviews:
• “I purchased this TV for my basement and have to say I am very happy with it. First off, the picture is very good, especially when viewing HD and BluRay. Standard definition is just that, not very crisp, similar to all other TV’s. Plus who watches Standard when there are so many HD choices…not I. I am pleased with the size to price comparison and feel I got a lot for my dollar. The S2 is lacking some of the internet capabilities, but that’s something I do not care to have nor can I justify the price increase. I plan on streaming with a media player so it is not an issue for me. The set itself is very nice looking and looks great hung up on my wall. The sound from the speakers is not the best as is the case with most flat panels. I am wired for surround sound so will be looking to add a 5.1 + receiver soon anyway. There are inputs on the side so I can hook up a Wii or PS2 without having to worry about getting behind the TV, also there is an HDMI on the side as well. This is my second Panasonic Plasma and really like their product and quality. In comparing the S1 and S2 there are some significant improvements with the S2 model. Shipping was phenomenal with Amazon Prime trial membership. I ordered at 3:30pm EST and received it the very next day at 5pm, it was a day ahead of schedule and had it setup just over 24 hrs after ordering, which is very impressive. Overall I recommend this TV and am very pleased with it so far.” – Michael Capo(USA)

Read More »

• “I’ve had a few Panasonic plasma’s throughout the years and I still even have a Hitachi Director’s Series plasma (which I have to say, blows every plasma on Amazon out of the water, but it’s also $7,000).

The Panasonic TC-P54S2 (the 54″ display in the S2 line of plasmas) is a truly breathtaking television. The G25 line is more expensive and does offer a slightly richer and deeper black than the S2 line (among other, totally unnecessary features), but it’s barely noticeable when the S2 plasma is broken-in and calibrated correctly. It’s very important that you break-in and calibrate this display.

There’s no buzzing sound like another reviewer said, the display runs cool for a plasma, the colors are vibrant, rich, deep, the contrast is breathtaking (especially compared to so many LCD’s that lack a deep contrast like plasmas) and it is just a great display. Did I also mention that it’s below $1,300? I remember a friend of mine spending $22,000 on a Marantz 65″ plasma which today looks like pure garbage. It’s disgusting.

In addition to being a videophile, having a degree in Digital Editing and Cinematography and working for a film production company (where we use $15,000 Sony Professional Reference monitors) I have to say that this is truly an outstanding display product from Panasonic. I’ve spent a few hours enjoying a 50″ G25 series and won’t lie that to the trained eye, certain blacks seem darker and deeper – however, to 99% of you out there, you’ll never know the difference.

The new neo-PDP plasma technology also helps many things from the last-year S1 series plasma technology from Panasonic. Many bugs have been fixed, the plasma display itself is better and Panasonic actually listened to their customers on multiple issues.

A great TV, but please make sure you break-in the display and calibrate it correctly. 5/5 stars, I would buy 3 more of these if I had room in my house.” – Brian(Salt Lake City,Utah)

Click Here for Latest Offer on Panasonic TC-P54S2
Enjoy Free Shipping & Secure Shopping