LG 50PY2R review

An integrated digital TV tuner wouldn't have gone amiss, but otherwise the technical specification is extremely impressive courtesy of LG's latest XD Engine technology. The system uses six advanced picture-processing technologies to individually enhance core elements of the image, such as colour, detail and noise. A demo mode proves its worth, although claims that it can convert low-resolution analogue signals to high-definition quality are somewhat exaggerated.

The previously mentioned X-Studio feature also offers relatively unique access to a multitude of memory cards that let you share, view and edit JPEG images, listen to MP3s or both at the same time.

Aside from the confusing remote operation is uncomplicated, using a simple scrolling system to navigate through an extensive range of advanced sound and picture settings. You can choose between several preset modes, or manually fine tune the picture as far as adjusting individual colour tones and temperatures. If you're lazy, the Dynamic picture mode performs best in most cases, but spend a little time playing with the settings and your patience will be rewarded.

Sound options are similarly extensive and, as well as the two side speakers, there's also an integrated subwoofer that adds more weight to the performance, especially when using the bass booster function. Other audio features include a SRS TSXT pseudo-surround mode, which adds spaciousness but never really tricks you into believing you have more speakers.

Performance
It's crucial that you leave enough space between you and the screen if you want to appreciate picture quality. It looks good from afar, but get too close and the slightest picture flaws become exaggerated.

Analogue TV broadcasts are decent with extremely well-balanced, natural colours, cohesive movement and less noise than you might expect. Detail is soft, though, and images lack the sort of solid definition that using a separate digital tuner brings. In addition, with the RGB Scart reserved for connecting a set-top box, you'll need a DVD player that's compatible with either component or digital video inputs.

Both progressive scan and especially high-definition sources produce smooth and colourful pictures with distinct black levels. Deep blacks create exceptional contrast and expose fine detail that leaves images looking more realistic than anything LCD can offer. The downside is that you lose a little detail during dark scenes, but otherwise image quality is outstanding. And, for such a large size screen, pictures are surprisingly clean with only the occasional colour gradation causing it any problems.

Edited by Mary Lojkine
Additional editing by Kate Macefield