Panasonic TC-32LX70 32-Inch 720p LCD Flat Panel HDTV

Review by J. DeStefano for Panasonic TC-32LX70 32-Inch 720p LCD Flat Panel HDTV
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I was tending towards getting a smaller Samsung LCD to complement the 46″ model I now have when I came across this Panasonic unit. What a surprise to find not only did it have an even brighter, crisper picture, but it also had a decent set of speakers and some unique features lacking in the Samsung and Sony models. These features include an automatic shutoff option if the remote hasn’t been used for 90 minutes – a handy feature if you fall asleep while watching or have kids who leave the tv on. In addition, if signal is lost or a component feeding the unit is shut off, this tv automatically turns itself off after a period of time. Also it has a black adjustment setting which provides the pitch black typical of Sharp models, or optionally a lighter black which better shows detail in darker areas like Sony and Samsung offer, if that is what you prefer. The unique lighting source gets rid of the buzz other reviewers have complained about in some smaller Samsung sets. Getting back to the speakers – having a decent pair is critical for smaller sets where you likely wont be using a stand alone set of speakers. The Samsung speakers tend to be marginal in their smaller sets. Perhaps the only drawback I saw to this unit was the design. Clearly not as striking as the Samsung or even Sony. However, the construction is solid and it has a decent traditional look. And for a price lower than Samsung or Sony, it is a steal. Seems as though Panasonic – well know for its quality plasma sets – is finally getting serious about becoming a major player in the LCD arena. I love my 46″ LCD Samsung, but this is clearly the best choice and value for a smaller LCD.

Review by Double Delight for Panasonic TC-32LX70 32-Inch 720p LCD Flat Panel HDTV
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I bought this TV for two reasons: One was that I had decided Panasonic had the best picture in the stores where I had seen it and the other was that I have only an outside antenna and a reviewer said his worked great on a simple antenna. He was right and I am extremely pleased with this TV. Almost looks like 3-D on my best stations.

Review by A. Amy for Panasonic TC-32LX70 32-Inch 720p LCD Flat Panel HDTV
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After comparing this television side-by-side with many others, including a far more expensive Sharp Aquos, I could detect virtually no reason not to buy it. Upconverted DVDs look EXCEPTIONAL and the sound is surprisingly dynamic; it almost sounds like a far bigger mini stereo system! Of course, it’s still no match for a high quality amplifier and speakers, but it’s far better than any other TV I’ve owned. (I cannot comment on how its sound quality compared in the store with that of other sets, as I only looked at the picture.)

The menu is easy to use and includes all the features you could expect, including fully adjustable backlight in addition to surround, noise filter, color temperature, parental lock, auto off, timers, etc, with the one notable exception of a memory function that allows the user to store 2 different picture settings — one for HD and near-HD, and another for standard definition. With the former, sharpness can be increased so much it starts to make standard satellite images look fuzzy. Therefore, the lack of such a memory can potentially be an inconvenience. In an attempt to negate the problem, I made sure the DVD player I bought had its own picture controls. I believe that after lowering the sharpness on the TV to a modest level and increasing sharpness on the DVD player, I should be able to achieve excellent results for both sources without having to constantly make adjustments, assuming that when I upgrade to HD satellite, the receiver will be able to store 2 settings.

The back is nicely laid out (unlike my sister’s Olevia) and offers 2 HDMI inputs, 2 s-video, 1 component, a “front” input concealed in a recessed area on the right side, and, for those who might use it, an optical audio out.

The remote, while large, fits nicely in one’s hand and is nicely designed.

In short, if you can compensate for the lack of dual picture setting memory, this TV is for you!

UPDATE: Correction! This TV DOES have a memory feature for picture controls; I simply missed it. In the PICTURE section of the menu there are several “quick” picture settings (vivid, cinema, etc.) and what I did not realize before is that all the picture controls can be adjusted separately for EACH of these “modes”. Just make sure you set each one while tuned to the input with which you want to use those particular settings and the TV will store them. For example, I’m using the VIVID mode for HD signals and CINEMA for standard signals.

Some people have complained that this TV does not display standard content well. They apparently haven’t spent a few minutes fine tuning the set. Yes, if you adjust VIVID for HD signals by raising brightness, sharpness, and color to levels you never dared use before and then try to watch regular cable or satellite without changing the picture, the quality will be lacking. But if you select another mode like CINEMA or STANDARD and in it reduce sharpness, brightness, and color down to a moderate level, you will quickly see that there is no problem. I tried both standard satellite and even a VHS tape, and believe me, it’s fine!

Finally, it should be noted that this set can also display 1080i. Perhaps all 720p sets do, but if you are new to HD (like me) then you may not be aware of it.

Enjoy! It’s a great product.

Review by William Angelo for Panasonic TC-32LX70 32-Inch 720p LCD Flat Panel HDTV
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Overall this is a solid, attractive, easy to use system. Please be aware that their is only one Component input connection. This should not matter if you have HDMI accessories. Sound system is OK, not spectacular and not terrible. This is not the Greatest LCD, but a rock solid performer with a Great Price!!!!!