Loewe Individual 32DR+ review

The screen's native 1366x768-pixel resolution means it's compatible with high-definition 720p and 1080i formats -- although as with most LCDs 1080i signals will be slightly downscaled. As Sky has now chosen to use 1080i for all its HDTV broadcasts you can lose a little detail but the effect is minimal with this screen size. Pictures are supported by Loewe's new Digital+ platform and Image+ picture processing, which monitors all incoming signals and optimises the picture for sharpness, colour, contrast and movement.

Loewe's unique approach to design and technology extends to the distinctive menu system. The unusual scrolling schematic looks great but, at least until you get used to it, it's a pain to use. There's enough information on screen to assist you but the navigation process is always over elaborate and often confusing.

This is especially apparent with the digital EPG, which is supposed to allow you to scan programme schedules and set recordings. Schedules are randomly presented, though, and don't always seem to cover all channels. Presuming you can find the programme, selecting recordings is fairly simple using the EPG but you can also initiate recordings using a manual timer or one-touch options.

There's a choice of four recording modes with the hard drive, which trade off image quality against recording time. The lowest quality mode lets you record for around 100 hours. The hard drive also constantly records the current programme so you can use time slip functions like pausing or rewinding live TV. But, as there's only a single digital tuner, you can't watch one programme while recording another.

Overall, the unfriendly functionality is a sticking point compared to more slicker conventional models.

Performance
The design is undeniably attractive but is there any substance behind the style?

Pictures, especially using high-definition sources, appear immediately striking using exceptionally rich and vibrant colours to grab attention, and bold black levels instil images with noticeably solid definition while exposing sharp detail and depth of field. Image traits like these excel with bright, colourful pictures and special effects but can leave ordinary material like daytime TV looking unrealistic.

Movement also appears occasionally unnatural with slow-panned motion stuttering, especially during digital programmes, while fast paced action can seem strangely fluid and slightly surreal at times.

Recordings using the two highest quality modes are inseparable from the original with virtually no loss of detail or colour vitality. Edges begin to fray and picture noise escalates from a drizzle to a downpour using the lowest quality mode but as a last resort for making extended recordings it's fine. The sound quality from the oversized CRX four-speaker system is more substantial than most slim screens.

Edited by Mary Lojkine
Additional editing by Kate Macefield