Philips 42PF7320A

Philips 42PF7320A Plasma TV Review

If you haven't yet jumped on the HDTV bandwagon, the Philips 42PF7320A is a decent step forward. This unit comes standard with a 181-channel NTSC tuner that allows viewers to watch standard TV broadcasts. In addition, high-definition programming is available with an optional CableCARD (provided you subscribe to a digital cable service).

The 42-inch widescreen plasma display puts out breathtaking images with clear detail thanks to Philips' exclusive Pixel Plus video processor. This processor increases the number of lines and pixels the TV can display. The 1024X768 resolution and 160 degree viewing angle make the Phillips 42PF7320A ideal for any home theater setup. While the TV comes with a table mount, it can also be placed on a wall with an optional VESA compatible kit.

Visual quality is enhanced by the 10000:1 contrast ratio, which means the television with the higher contrast ratio puts out more subtle color schemes that don't get washed out due to ambient light sources. The Phillips 42PF7320A also features a picture in picture display that allows viewers to watch 2 programs simultaneously.

Cross color, cross luminance and dot crawl distortion are virtually eliminated with the inclusion of a 3D comb filter, which separates brightness and color signals in a 3D domain. In addition the Philips 42PF7320A performs 3:2 pulldown detection and reversal. This feature allows viewers to watch progressive scan movies in their original 24 frame format by digitally adapting a 24 frame per second movie to 30 fps video.

Picture quality is adjustable with built-in color temperature and sharpness controls. An auto volume leveler insures that you can hear a show's quiet parts without being blown away by the louder scenes. Parental controls are also included with the V-Chip.

The Philips 42PF7320A comes equipped with two stereo speakers that put out 15 watts of power per channel (for a total of 30 watts) and Dolby Digital virtual surround sound. This system emulates a 5.1 channel sound field using just the two speakers.

Screen burn occurs when a static image "burns" itself in the screen causing a ghosting effect and plagued many early CRT monitors. But the Phillips 42PF7320A comes equipped with built-in anti-aging circuitry and an anti-reflective coating on the screen for added protection against screen burn.

A built-in USB 1.1 connector comes standard on the Philips 42PF7320A TV. This allows the TV to handle JPEG, MP3, MP3 PRO and ALB files from virtually any USB drive or digital camera. Simply plug in your USB device to access your files right on the screen.

In addition to USB, this unit comes with the following ports:

* Composite AV (RCA) In: 3 (1 side)

* S-Video In: 3 (1 side)

* Component Video In (Y PB PR): 2

* HDMI In: 2

* RF In: 1

* PC Audio In: 1

* PC Audio Out: 1

* Monitor Out: 1

* USB: 1

* Headphone: 1

Compared to other flat screen, plasma display televisions, the Philips 42PF7230A doesn't come with a lot of extras, but in the box you'll find: the TV, remote control with batteries, tabletop stand, power cord and instruction booklet.

Conclusion

Technology rolls forward and HDTV is soon to be the new standard. Eventually we'll all have to upgrade if we haven't already done so. The Philips 42PF7320A delivers amazing pictures and details that are sure to impress. The price reflects its modest features, but the "Wow" factor you'll enjoy when you watch movies, HD broadcasts or play video games just can�t be measured.

Best DVD Recorder Reviews Rating

7/10

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Philips 42PF7320A Plasma TV Review
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