Panasonic launches Viera HD TV range for 2010

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Posted on 18 Feb 2010 at 08:04

At Panasonic's global press conference in Munich, a bewildering range of new Viera models was launched, including new plasma and LED models, and most with Freeview HD tuners.

At the top end are two 3D TVs - 65in and 50in - which have plasma panels, while 19in LCD models aimed at the kitchen and bedroom are at the bottom end. Many of the new LCD models have LED backlighting, which take power consumption below 100W, even for the 42in models.

We were also shown a 152in ultra-high definition plasma, which is the largest in the world and has a 4K resolution - that's the equivalent of four Full HD sets. See our gallery image to appreciate just how enormous this monster is.

The NeoPDP plasma models also claim lower power consumption and better image quality. Newly developed panels have a new filter, new discharge gas, improved phosphor and redesigned cell structure. This boosts contrast and provides even smoother motion than before. Plus, high-speed drive technology cuts the time it takes for the light emission to reach peak brightness, and a new phosphor shortens afterglow time by about one-third, making these flagship models great for sports, movies and gaming. We saw demos of all three types of entertainment on the VT20, and they certainly looked impressive. We'll have to wait until we can run our own tests on them to know exactly how much image quality has improved.

Stepping down from the VT20 is the V20 series, comprising 50in and 42in models. The models also have the same native contrast of 5,000,000:1 as the VT20, and are THX display certified. They also have Viera Cast - Panasonic's on-demand portal - and a slim 2in profile.

Confusingly, there are also 42in and 37in LCD models in the V20 range. Both models have LED backlighting, and are able to turn sections of LEDs on and off to give a dynamic contrast of 2,000,000:1. The new LED TVs use only IPS panels - not the cheaper TN variant. This means they have excellent viewing angles as well as great contrast and smoothness for fast-moving objects.