Panasonic Viera TX-P42S10

Hello, I'm standing next to the Panasonic Viera TX-P42S10 It's fair to say that the P42S10 is a sturdy, if unsurprising looking TV. To be fair though, most people don't really want to be surprised by their TV, so sensible, well thought-out styling like this is really quite a good idea. We're pretty sure you'll agree, it's hardly ugly, and that's what really matters. At the back of this TV you'll find the usual array of SCART sockets, component video outputs and of course a pair of HDMI inputs. A third HDMI can be found on the side of the TV, alongside some standard definition inputs – designed for connecting camcorders or older games consoles. The remote control is nothing to write home about, but it's comfortable and easy to use. The buttons are quite well located, and the most often used controls are all within easy reach of your thumb. There aren't many extra features to be found on this TV either. You do get an SD card slot that enables you to playback still images and AVCHD video shot on your camera or camcorder. That's a nice addition, but we're not sure how many people will take advantage of it. You do not, however, get access to Panasonic's latest range of online features known as VieraCast, which is a shame but certainly not a catastrophe. So – the two most important components of every TV are the picture and sound quality. We're happy to say that the image quality of this TV is excellent. Freeview looks very good indeed with lots of detail and decent colours. HD material of course is a whole new ball game. Amazing clarity and detail set this TV apart from many other TVs in this price range – and we could watch Blu-ray movies on it until the cows come home. Sound quality is decent enough too. While we don't think the built-in, downward-firing speakers are going to set the world alight – they are certainly good enough to provide sound for most TV shows. Obviously, movie lovers will want to get themselves a surround sound speaker system to compliment this excellent TV. All-in-all, we think this TV is terrific. It may not have all the bells and whistles of some competition, but it's quietly competent and very likeable. This is a TV for people who want a great TV, without a load of fuss. For CNET UK, I'm Ian Morris with the Panasonic Viera TX-P42S10