Part of Sound and Vision’s Plasma in Steps article - the Philips 50PF9830A is reviewed. Let’s take a look at their findings, shall we?

The specs on this 50 inch plasma:

1366 x 768 Resolution
Inputs - HDMI, component, CableCARD, ethernet, flash card and USB
Built in HDTV tuner
Ambilight 2 whizbang yeow backlight technology (Sorry, I just don’t get it.)

Unit lists for $5300, street price for us homeys is around 4500 or less!

Pros
•Crisp-looking HDTV pictures.
•Sleek, attractive design.
•Swiveling TV stand.

Cons
•Single custom picture preset for all inputs.
•Mediocre shadow detail.
•Dark scenes look patchy.

“BOTTOM LINE Crisp HDTV pictures, stylish looks, and a bunch of cool features like Ambilight 2 backlighting and a swiveling stand make the Philips 50PF9830A an appealing option for your flat-TV needs. The set’s overall image quality falls a solid notch below the other two models tested here, however, and the lone Personal picture preset for all of its video inputs was disappointing. But you can’t argue with the price, which is among the cheapest I’ve seen for a 50-inch plasma set.”

Sound And Vision Magazine: Plasma in Steps (popups)

Via HD Blog

• LG 55LH90 - 55″ Inch LCD TV - Great Choice
• LCD Vs. Plasma
• Pioneer PDP-5060HD Plasma Review
• Sony 60″ SXRD R60XBR1 Review