Panasonic Viera TH42PX600 review

The screen's WXGA resolution will display both commonly used 720p and 1080i high-definition signals. This is generally fine for high-definition requirements such as watching Sky's HDTV broadcasts or playing upscaled DVD films. If you want to play the latest 1080p format used by next generation Blu-ray or HD DVD players and games consoles, however, you'll need an XGA resolution screen -- and they're considerably more expensive.

Integrated Freeview is almost a standard specification now and the screen also has support for a CI card slot, which allows you to subscribe to extra digital services from TopUp TV. If you're unlucky enough to fall outside a digital reception area there's also an integrated analogue tuner -- although performance isn't as impressive.

Compared to the on-paper specification, the practical menu system appears simple, using only three main sub-menus -- picture, sound and setup -- with a relatively basic assortment of options. There are some standard preset picture and sound modes with a few adjustments for noise reduction and colour management, but nothing out of the ordinary. As the important technology is at work behind the scenes, there's little need for fine-tuning and operation is incredibly easy as a result.

Performance
The screen's absolutely sensational performance reaffirms Panasonic's status as maker of the finest 42-inch plasma that less than two grand will buy. We expect Pioneer's latest generation panels to compete for the title of class leader, but they will be more expensive.

High-definition images look amazing, with unrivalled black levels enhancing detail and contrast. The almost infinite colour spectrum portrays vivid yet realistic tones with superb gradation. Movement glides across the screen without the slightest stutter, even during slow camera pans. The picture in general is alarmingly clean and stable.

Standard-definition images and digital broadcasts are equally impressive in their own right. There is slightly less detail, of course, but the image's dense definition with natural colours and movement mean you won't be disappointed, whatever input you use.

We can't even complain about the sound, as the new Advanced Smart Sound Speaker system manages to deliver surprising authority and expression from the slim units. Low-frequency sounds using integrated passive woofers are particularly impressive and carry enough weight to satisfy explosive film scores.

Edited by Mary Lojkine
Additional editing by Nick Hide