The Panasonic TX-P42ST30B is a 3D Plasma TV offering Full HD (1080p) video, available in the sizes of 42, 46 or 50 inch. This review will mostly handle the 42 inch variant.
The screen technology used in this TV is the so-called NeoPlasma by Panasonic. The main advantages of this technology are the new plasma panels which consume less electricity and have a much better maximal contrast compared with former models, up to 5,000,000:1 — Panasonic terms this unique technology ‘Infinite Black Pro’ — while having a minimal response speed of 0.001 msec. As far as peripherals are concerned, there are four HDMI inputs allowing you to connect different devices as you please, from a computer (with a graphic card) to a tuner, or even a PlayStation 3 device.
The attached DVB-T2 tuner allows you to access Freeview HD, a UK free-to-air service offering access to several key channels such as BBC HD and ITV1 HD at no cost, a service which is kept being upgraded and enhanced with time – check its availability within your area. Also included is the Viera Connect service, Panasonic’s unique IPTV service that offers video as well as other services directly into your TV over the Internet.
The design of the TX-P42ST30 is consistent with Panasonic’s current design approach, featuring a grey-to-black frame around the Plasma panel with a slight gradient towards the edge. The frame itself is not too thick so as to disturb or distract the eye, but gives a rather comfortable feeling of ‘sinking’ into the picture, augmented by the new 3D technology.
The display itself is flexible, i.e. free of viewing angle, and supports both types of Full HD technologies, namely 1080p and 1080i. The display itself also supports conversation between 2D and 3D. The quality of picture on this TV is greatly enhanced due to the built-in Intelligent Frame Creation Pro technology, clocked at 600Hz, offering a superior image production rate over other TVs which heavily influence image sharpness, as well as other factors. The additional High Contrast Filter installed by Panasonic in this TV guarantees contrast remains stable and consistent. As far as sound is concerned, the TV comes with two 10 watt speakers simulating Surround Sound.
The TV has a wide range of built-in capabilities making it suitable for any use, whether connected to a computer, streaming over network, or simply watching TV. There are two USB ports, a LAN port, Digital Audio Output (audio is also covered by HDMI) as well as a headphone jack. The product is WiFi ready, meaning it can connect to your home network on detection, and supports several different modes, including a child lock. best iptv provider