Panasonic Viera TX-32LXD60 review

Features
As you would expect, the TX-32LXD60 is high-definition compatible, with a 1,366x768-pixel resolution that will support both commonly used 720p and 1080i high-definition formats. However, although this WXGA resolution will display 1080i signals used by Sky's HD broadcasts, images will be slightly downscaled to fit. Theoretically, this means a loss of detail, but in reality the effect is so minimal that it can be ignored.

If you want to watch 1080i images in their entirety or display the new 1080p format used by next-generation Blu-ray and HD DVD players or the forthcoming PlayStation 3, you'll need a screen with a higher 1,920x1,080-pixel resolution. But this specification is only just arriving in the mainstream and TVs that offer it are considerably more expensive.

Both analogue and digital TV tuners are integrated with an accompanying CI card slot for receiving limited, subscription-based channels such as MTV and British Eurosport from TopUp TV services.

Panasonic has also installed the latest picture-enhancing technologies from its V-Real Advanced LCD collective. These include systems such as Active Light Control and Active Contrast Control, which claim to improve traditionally subdued LCD dynamic contrast levels. Its Overdrive system offers an exceptionally fast 8ms response time for more controlled movement.

The TX-32LXD60's main menu system appears surprisingly primitive, featuring outdated, blocky graphics with a limited range of options. There are only basic picture and sound settings accompanied by a few preset modes, which is miserly compared to some screens. Digital TV menus are more attractively displayed and the seven-day electronic programme guide can be used to display listings for a specified channel or several channels at a time as well as searches by category or programme type.

In truth, we expected more interactive functionality from a screen at this price, but at least all the controls have an impact -- unlike some over-elaborate options we've seen on other TVs -- and the selective range does mean the screen is incredibly easy to install and operate.

Performance
We were stunned by the performance of the smaller TX-26LXD60 when we reviewed it, but a step up in screen size has slightly dampened our enthusiasm -- especially when compared to some newer models, such as Sony's KDL-32V2000.

That's not to say that image quality isn't still impressive. Digital broadcasts are enviably stable and excellently detailed while video performance is even more engaging. High-definition images in particular are densely defined, with contrast so superb that it adds another dimension to the experience. Images are untainted by artefacts or smearing movement.

However, images do occasionally appear too bright -- reducing contrast in dark scenes and leaving colours looking superficial. This can invigorate blockbusters laden with special effects, but isn't adaptable enough to enhance realism using more natural content.

As for audio quality, while the speakers used in the 26-inch model are substantial enough for a small room, using the same ones here struggles to fill the larger living rooms where a screen of this size will be used.

Edited by Mary Lojkine
Additional editing by Nick Hide