Review There was a much-used gag in Warner Bros’ Road Runner cartoons, where Wile E. Coyote would paint a tunnel and road onto a cliff face – and then watch in confusion as a truck drove through it. This 65in Panasonic plasma creates a similar illusion. Its pictures are so large and sharp it’s easy to be convinced of their reality.
Flagship behemoth: the Panasonic TX-P65VT30 has 65in plasma panel
Like all VT30s model, the TV has both Freeview HD and Freesat tuners. For this audition I opted for Freeview HD – the set was just too large and heavy to drag to my satellite feed. Indeed, it was a three man lift just to get it out of the box and onto the pedestal stand. While super-large LED TVs tend to be unfeasibly light, this is an old school backbreaker, tipping the scales at 63kg when perched upon its stand. Read the rest of this entry »
Review When it comes to features, Samsung’s UE40D6530 40in LED telly doesn’t skimp on anything much. Freeview HD, 3D, video on Demand, Skype, integrated web browser, social media apps, media streaming, PVR recording to external hard drive – it’s all here. This isn’t so much a TV as an all in one entertainment centre. And priced at £1099, Samsung is clearly planning to shift a lot of these puppies.
Entertaining concept: Samsung’s UE40D6530
Too slim for traditional side-mounted inputs, connectivity is all confined to the back panel. There are four HDMI inputs, a PC input, Scart and component – both of which have to be using supplied adaptors – three USBs, Ethernet LAN and a digital audio optical output. Samsung has conveniently chosen to opt for integrated Wi-Fi, so there’s no need for a separate dongle. Read the rest of this entry »
Review I wouldn’t give Sony’s troubles to a monkey on a rock. Horrible financial results, the PSN hacked to its knees, and now the distinction of producing the worst 3D TV I think I’ve ever seen. Yep, the KDL-40EX724 reviewed here is a three dimensional suckfest. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.
Sony’s KDL-40EX724 comes a cropper in the third dimension
Ostensibly, this 40in Freeview HD set should be a formidable proposition. The 724 designation identifies this model as the flag-bearer in Sony’s populist EX line. Aesthetically it looks great, and it has a list of desirables which includes net connectivity, Skype and low-running costs. The panel is also de rigueur thin at just 42mm and, tipping the scales at 11.2kg, weighs less than my cat. Read the rest of this entry »
Review TiVo is synonymous with hard disk video recording, at least in its native US. To date, its profile was lower in the UK, though a few thousand models of the original UK model were sold about ten years ago, winning it a loyal if small fanbase.
Cisco’s Virgin’s TiVo box: PlayStation 3-like curves and minimalist styling
That recorder is now superseded by the Cisco-produced CT8685 or to give it its official, unwieldy name, Virgin Media TV Powered by TiVo. Announced back in November 2009, the result of this exclusive UK venture with Virgin Media’s cable TV network is finally available. Read the rest of this entry »
Review Sony’s KDL-EX524 is a well-equipped flatscreen for those of us with scant regard for the third dimension. Resolutely 2D, this Freeview HD 40-incher with 32- and 37-inch alternatives, instead tempts with features like Internet connectivity, media streaming and USB HDD recording. It’s also relatively affordable.
Slimline LED casts a net: Sony’s Bravia KDL-EX524
First impressions are good. The TV is light but well-built, with a subtle two-tone finish. Connectivity is equally pleasing. It has three rear-placed HDMI inputs, plus Scart, component with Stereoaudio, Ethernet and digital optical out. Read the rest of this entry »
