Panasonic TH-50PX80U

The Panasonic TH-50PX80U is the entry level 50″ model in the Viera PX series. This 720p plasma TV offers excellent value in a high definition format, with brilliant contrast ratios and deep blacks that are ubiquitous of plasma technology. Advanced pixel resolution and image-processing technology with the plasma TV’s natural ability to beautifully reproduce fast moving images, every detail is rendered with amazing clarity.

Features

With an aspect ratio of 16:9 and native resolution of 1366 x 768, it is compatible with signal formats of 1080p, 1080i, 720p, and 480p. The menu is easy to use, and the remote is intuitive. The panel is a G11 Progressive HD plasma display panel with a new AR filter to help cut down reflection. This plasma easily produces the best black levels for the price. It even comes with 24p playback which is more common with higher priced sets.

A new menu for this model deals with burn-in or, as Panasonic calls it, “image retention.” There’s a pixel orbiter that moves the entire image gradually around the screen, along with an option to set the 4:3 mode to include gray bars on either side of the picture; as opposed to black, which cause image retention more easily than gray. Cleverly, on the off chance that the plasma retains an image, there’s a scrolling bar that slides across the screen as a sort of eraser.

Audio features include 2 full range speakers standard with most Panasonic models at 20 W output with surround sound features. Be careful though with the “Bass Boost” function. If set at too high a level there is some audible distortion. It comes with 3 HDMI jacks, two at the back panel one in front. Also there is only one composite video input available at the back. So if you have more than two HDMI sources or more than one accessory with composite hookups (for eg, a Wii and a VHS deck), you’ll need to hook one of them up through the front.

Actual user review:
“If you’re looking for a 50 inch TV, don’t let the 720p display scare you away from this TV. The picture is superb; great blacks and realistic fleshtones and other colors. There are lots of theoretical arguments for buying a 1080p and certainly the 1080p difference gains importance once you exceed the 50 inch threshold. But with TVs 50 inches and smaller, it’s my belief that you won’t see the difference between 1080 and 720, all else being equal.” – A.Joe (SD,USA)

 

Network Your AV Devices, Quickly and Easily

With VIERA Link™, you can control your compatible Panasonic DVD recorder, Blu-ray Disc® player, home theater sound system and HD camcorder all with a single remote. VIERA Link even automatically sets your DVD recorder via an Auto Preset Download function.

Don’t buy the TH-50PX80U if you want to use it occasionally as a big monitor. It lacks an analog VGA input, and connected via HDMI, the results were far from satisfactory.

Share HD Videos on the Big Screen

The built-in SD memory card slot allows you to instantly display your digital photos, either in random order or as a slide show.

Conclusion

The relatively inexpensive Panasonic TH-50PX80U is an excellent addition to any home entertainment set up. While its color and noise reduction could use improvement Panasonic’s least-expensive 2008 plasma is still an all-round superb value.  The size also makes it a perfect addition for people who love to sit back and enjoy a large wide screen experience.

• “The 50PX80U is an amazing big screen plasma hdtv. Picture quality is second to none. I decided that I cannot tell the difference between the 1080i and 1080p, so the extra $4-500 was not worth the PZ version. Concerned about the plasma lifetime? I was, but this has a 100,000 hour half life rating-the plasma lifetime is not an issue. Sound is fantastic, easy human interface, and aesthetically pleasing. Bought an upconverting DVD player, a $2.00 HDMI cable on Amazon, and my DVDs play crystal clear. Highly recommended.” – Viper
• “I did research before buying and could not be happier. This TV has great picture quality and was a great value. I was worried about the shipping and possible damage. Amazon called to arrange the delivery and there was no problem. The box was in pristine condition. I struggled deciding between a 42-inch 1080p and 50-inch 720p. In the end, I decided that size matters more. I believe I made the right choice. I run Direct TV HD in on a HDMI input and it looks fantastic.” - G.Huff (CA,USA)

Average User Rating:

 

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