Televisions

Panasonic is currently the king of plasma TV. So much so, that its LCD screens often get overlooked. Now, though, it’s joined the LED market, with a range of TVs from 19-42in. This set, the TX-L42D25B, is the biggest in its arsenal. Is it good enough to challenge the LED lineups of Samsung, Sony et al?

If you’ve been harbouring suspicions that Panasonic is reserving its premium TV technology for plasma, then think again. The brand’s new WT50 line of LED screens oozes proprietary refinement. For those in the market for a leading-edge LCD, Panasonic is determined to be on your shortlist. This is, quite simply put, a barnstormer of a TV. 

There’s something imperious about the Panasonic DT65. Perhaps it’s the super-thin bezel and jet-black screen, or the aloof high-necked pedestal. Or maybe it just knows it’s smarter than everybody else? Whatever the reason, this is certainly not an austerity flatscreen TV. With an armoury of advanced tech, including voice control and customisable interface, it’s one of the most ambitious models yet seen from the brand. 

The only thing certain about the next evolution in broadcast technology is its uncertainty. 4K/Ultra HD may be widely accepted as the next step from 1080p Full HD, but even broadcasters have yet to agree a specification. While BSkyB looks certain to go with 2160p at 50/60Hz for its sports coverage, the BBC is rumoured to want native frame rates to top 100Hz. For brands eager to punt 4K screens this is all rather inconvenient, not least because TVs prior to this Panasonic model are tethered to 4K at 30Hz, thanks to the limitations of current HDMI chippery.

The P42ST30B is the most affordable Panasonic plasma yet to offer viewing in the third dimension, and in terms of both spec and looks, it is the runt of the brand’s 3D plasma range. Its appearance is somewhat unrefined with its grey-green screen, industrial-looking 2in-wide gunmetal grey frame and slab of a pedestal for a stand.The plasticky remote control doesn’t help matters either, but at least the TV is solid enough to withstand knocks and sticky paws.

Panasonic may have been forced this year into embracing both Passive 3D and big-screen LCD technologies, but it certainly hasn’t given up on its beloved Active 3D plasma screens. In fact, the 50in TX-P50ST50 plasma here isn’t at all old-fashioned.

Despite Panasonic revealing a new-found enthusiasm for LED this year, most serious video enthusiasts will still be carrying a torch for the brand’s new plasma TVs, particularly the flagship VT50 series auditioned here.