High-definition compatibility is essential if you want to subscribe to Sky's HDTV services and play upscaled DVDs now -- or use Blu-ray or HD DVD devices in the near future. In preparation for the eventual digital TV switchover, the screen has also been fitted with a Freeview tuner and accompanying CI card slot for receiving limited subscription channels from TopUp TV.
LG has incorporated its latest XD Engine processing system, which supposedly improves standard-definition signals to 'almost' high-definition levels using a variety of technologies to enhance individual picture elements. The system doesn't exactly scale the heights it claims, but it does make a difference, which can be judged first-hand using a split-screen demo mode that emphasises the improvements in detail and depth.
Elsewhere, on-screen menus are neat and unobtrusive with extensive adjustments largely based around preset sound and picture modes -- although you can also customise and store your own settings. You can even make unusually advanced adjustments to colour tones and noise-reduction systems to fine-tune images. Sound options are equally versatile with several preset modes depending on the type of programme you're watching -- such as sports or movies -- and a SRS TruSurroundXT mode, which adds a sense of spaciousness to the stereo speakers.
For the price it's hard to fault this wide range of technological and user-friendly features, and not many screens costing less than a grand can offer as much for your money.
Performance
Images on the LG 32LC2D exhibit some common LCD flaws such as background instability and jagged gradations, especially apparent in TV broadcasts. Class-leading screens such as Sony's V2000 and Panasonic's LXD60 models can cope with these imperfections better -- but they are more expensive.
Nonetheless, the 32LC2D's decent detail, depth of field and a lustrous colour palette are alluring enough to divert your attention away from what are only subtle shortcomings. DVD images, especially using an upscaled 720p or 1080i signal, eliminate most problems altogether -- offering an improved insight into black levels that sharpens detail and deepens definition. Overall, picture performance is on a par with the best screens at this price, such as Samsung's LE32R74BD.
Like most LCD screens, sound performance is typically limited, but if you keep the volume levels down it's fine for everyday TV viewing. If used in the right circumstances, the sound presets can be enjoyably effective.
Edited by Mary Lojkine
Additional editing by Nick Hide
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jon9800 8 December 2009
Good: Picture quality, EPG after software update
Bad: Freeview tuner & hdmi socket packed up when only 2 years old
Comment: The picture quality for an hd ready tv was good, but had to have the engineers out for failing EPG, software update cured this. After just longer than 2 years the freeview tuner and the hdmi socket stopped working. Also a vertical shadow has appeared down the left hand side of the screen. Both LG and Currys refused to help except LG putting me in contact with a repairer 150 miles away! It appears that from various local independant dealers Sony, Panasonic, JVC & Toshiba have much better service backup, so LG is not so cheap in the long term.
Steve Cox 15 January 2008
Good: Nice bright screen good colours, nice sound, HD Performace.
Bad: Not much. Basic looks, remote is a bit fiddly. Limited Connections.
Comment: I snapped up this bargain TV for £450 from my local high street electrical store. Got it home, set it up, and it was a breeze to get everything connected.
After switching on I was impressed, the picture is pretty clear even without the XD engine on, the colours are lush and the brightness is just right. It took a while to get the right settings but now I have pictures from my Sky + Box are great.
However I feel this TV comes into it's own when you plug in something 720p or 1080i into it. Blue Ray DVD's look sharper than a box of lemons, PS3 Games look incredible and the sound coming out of the front speakers is very good for a TV in this price range.
I'm very happy with my purchase of the LG 32LC2D For an Entry level/Budget choice it seems a very solid performer.
My only issue is there is only one HDMI Socket, however with splitters easily available I don't see this as being a real problem.
David Boland-Thoms 15 December 2007
Good: Nothing at all
Bad: The build quality is abysmal
Comment: I bought two of these sets a year ago. A couple of weeks after the guarantee ran out one set had only sound and no picture. To have this repaired I was quoted the manufacturer's price for the part of £1,760, more than double what I paid for the set! So that was one set scrapped. The second set is now displaying its own peculiarities. Tuning in to certain channels there is a picture but no sound. How much longer before this one also has to be thrown away I wonder? So, would I recommend this make of TV? What do you think?
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