Philips 32PFL5403D/27 32-Inch 720p LCD HDTV

Review by R. Shaw for Philips 32PFL5403D/27 32-Inch 720p LCD HDTV
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I purchased this tv from a club for $488 after reading reviews on Amazon.com and Consumer reports. I set the TV up in my bedroom, and it actually may be a little large for that room as the picture looks better if you are at least 6 feet away.

I have only regular cable in this room, no HD box. Some of our local channels are full-time HD now, and those channels have a much better picture. I hooked up our HD cable box just to see if there was a difference in picture and it was GREATLY improved over just straight cable connection. Still, the picture is clear and the sound, while coming from the back, is very clear…just be sure to keep away from the wall at least 6 inches so you have the bounce of sound.

I am very happy with this TV and would NOT be happier if I had spent $200 more on a Sony or Samsung. This TV won’t “blow you away”, but if you want a great picture with no “frills” in a small room, this is the one to buy.

Review by Grim Greazy for Philips 32PFL5403D/27 32-Inch 720p LCD HDTV
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I recently purchased this Philips 32″ TV, and I am very pleased with my purchase. After looking at different models of 32″ televisions available, the different brands and specs had me a little worried about making the right decision. However this TV has great picture, looks modern and stylish, has plenty of imputs, and is easy to use and program. It looks great for movies, games, and hd and regular TV programing, it even cleans up analog channels somewhat. I have also used a 32 inch samsung and I certainly could not say that it was is any better than this, in fact i think i prefer the philips. Also, as far as looking at specs when buying a tv, do not be worried if you are considering this television: considering its size and price range it is very competitive. I was a little worried about its 8ms response time considering samsung and some others have 6ms or even 4ms, but i cannot tell the difference and from what I have read there are differences between manufacturers when it comes to measuring such things; it also has a 26000 dynamic contrast ratio which is impressive i guess, but who really knows. The bottom line is this: picture looks great, movies look great, and video games look great, everything I needed from an HDTV; and it was easy to set up, just letting you select from different picutres to determine what type of settings you want. hope this was helpfull.

Review by Veruca for Philips 32PFL5403D/27 32-Inch 720p LCD HDTV
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I did a tremendous amount of research before I bought this HD, including scouring amazon customer feedback, CNet, and Consumer Reports, and so far, after three weeks, the Philips has lived up to the great reviews. The picture is terrific, it’s easily customizable without being a brain-teaser and set-up was a breeze. It also glossy and sleek, while the screen is thankfully glare-free. I do really, really, really wish it came in white, though. Overall, you can’t find a better HDTV for the price.

Unlike other reviewers, I find the sound fine despite the speakers being in the back but then, I’ve kept mine on the stand about 18 inches from the wall and not tucked in a media cabinet. I agree that the remote should have some sort of backlighting b/c until you memorize the buttons you’ll need a flashlight to adjust format, sound, etc…

A couple of general buying tips: despite what manufacturers and reviewers may tell you, 32″ is a perfectly sized TV for the living room. My general viewing range is about 10-12 feet and I wouldn’t want a TV any larger. Also, don’t waste your money on 1040p for TV’s less than 40″–the higher resolution doesn’t register at the smaller sizes. Reputable reviewers say that 720p ( like the Philips) is exactly as good for 32″ and I agree.

Oh and one other thing: To take advantage of HD I hiked over to my local cable provider’s payment center and replaced my two year old digital cable box with an HD digital box. It’s free and totally worth the trouble. You’ll get better HD features, channels, and flexibility of resolution.

Review by lovhybrid for Philips 32PFL5403D/27 32-Inch 720p LCD HDTV
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I purchased this from a club store for 600 shipped and we are satisfied with the picture quality, multiple input connections and attractive frame (edges has clear plastic surround).

I think the one thing that this unit needs is backlight controls, since

too much of backlight affected some images that contrast and brightness

cant fix. I have to use light sensor to fix the issue.

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