Panasonic VIERA TC-P50VT25 Plasma 3D HDTV
The 50 inch Panasonic TC-P50VT25 HDTV is the smallest of the four sets in the VT25 series. The TC-P50VT25 has individually adjustable menus for 2D and 3D operation. This Panasonic Plasma television is THX certified in 2D in it’s THX picture mode, but not THX certified for 3D. The Cinema Picture mode replaces the THX option in the 3D picture settings. Since the company feels that only the true 3D experience can make the format a long-term success rather than a short-term gimmick, this set does not offer a 2D to 3D conversion feature. The 2D to 3D conversion feature would simulate a 3D movie from a 2D source. Just like most home theater reviews sites have stated, we have to also agree that leaving the conversion feature out is a good choice that saves the buyers a few dollars.
Since most of your viewing will be of 2D source, we recommend you not concern yourself with the 3D specs so much on any 3D television available right now. However, with that being said, the Panasonic TC-P50VT25 does have impressive 3D specs.
The Frame Sequential technology of Full HD 3D requires the images to be displayed at 1/120 of a second, which is twice as fast as ordinary full-HD images. If the luminescence time for each frame were simply shortened, the screen brightness would be lowered. To solve this problem, the luminescence time was shortened and the luminescence intensity was raised, which made it possible to produce bright, crisp 3D images.
Strengths
- Near-perfect picture quality with perfect black levels, outstanding color and details
- THX Certification for perfect out-of-the-box picture quality
- Neo Plasma display panel technology enables true 1080 lines of moving resolution for video content
- Anti glare technology for the most comfortable viewing
- Industry leading 3D display performance. Smooth and flicker free 3D viewing without any motion blur or ghosting
- Ability to play 1080p 24fps 2D content (Blu-ray and some satellite programming) at 96Hz via 4:4 pull down.
- Provides excellent value for money. Cheaper than most high-end LED TVs while retaining a better Picture quality and 3D display.
Weaknesses
- Display is about 3 1/2 inches thick. Not as slim as Samsung’s LED 3D TVs.
- The set only includes one Panasonic 3D glasses with purchase. Additional 3D glasses are around $150 a set.
- Since 3D is still a new technology, improvements will have to be made. It is still in it’s infancy.
When it comes to 3D performance and video quality, the Panasonic VT25 series holds the lead over all of its other competitors. Since this set is a Plasma, it will be significantly cheaper than most LED 3D TVs being released by other manufacturers. Even when not using the 3D features, the Panasonic TC-P50VT25 is an outstanding set. Panasonic knows how to make a solid Plasma and 3D set as well.
Retail Price: $2600