Panasonic TH-42PX25U/P 42'' High-Definition Plasma TV

The Benefits of HDTV

Average customer rating:

Great Picture, Great Bargain!
Underwhelmed
Great TV
Glitch in the TV
JPEG image viewing is very Dodgy

Panasonic TH-42PX25U/P 42" High-Definition Plasma TV

Manufacturer: Panasonic
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

TVs | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics

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Product Features:

42-inch gas-plasma TV with built-in NTSC and digital ATSC/QAM tuners and high 3,000:1 contrast ratio; 44.9 x 29.8 x 5.5 inches (W x H x D)
1,024 x 768 native pixel resolution with HDTV/EDTV display capability (1080i/480p); accepts 720p input through front-panel PC/RGB analog input
High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) offers direct-digital A/V connection with compatible gear
Photo viewer through SD/PC Card slots; CableCARD compatibility obviates the need for a separate box for digital cable reception
Biamplified 2-way speakers with 26 watts total power; BBE ViVA HD3D Sound simulates surround sound from any 2 speakers

ASIN: B0001YYNMQ

Amazon.com Product Description

Flat-panel, big-screen luxury is yours with Panasonic's 42-inch VIERA series TH-42PX25U/P. This 1,024 x 768-pixel gas-plasma TV offers a 16:9 widescreen dimension, photo-viewing SD and PC Card slots, and an HDMI input for direct-digital connection with high-definition sources. Its ATSC tuner pulls HD signals (480p/1080i) right out of the airwaves, however, and its QAM tuner is fully compatible with unscrambled HDTV cable reception. A standard analog NTSC tuner receives standard-definition (SD) programming, and 2-tuner/split-screen picture-in-picture gives you unparalleled viewing convenience with scalable image sizes.

The set's authorized CableCARD ability means the set will also receive digital cable television systems services directly from the cable operator without requiring a bulky, external cable box.

The Benefits of HDTV

Standard TVs (SDTVs) display a maximum of 480 lines using the interlaced scan method, which creates a picture with alternating lines of information.

Enhanced-definition TVs (EDTVs) display a maximum of 480 lines using the progressive-scan method, which creates an image using consecutive lines of information for a crisp, flicker-free picture.

High-definition TVs (HDTVs) display a maximum of either 1,080 interlaced lines or 720 progressively scanned lines for the sharpest possible image.

With a plasma screen you get true to life vivid colors like you've never seen before, extremely wide viewing angles (wider, even, than those of most LCD screens), making it the perfect screen for home theater set ups. Easy placement due to the plasma monitor's slim profile--the TH-42PX25U/P is a mere 5.5 inches deep, perfect for desk or wall mounting and freeing up much of the space that was previously lost with deep CRT TVs.

Brightness tends to be extremely uniform across plasma screens, which are also impervious to the picture distortion and negative color balances that afflict CRT monitors when placed near lighting or sound systems.

The TH-42PX25U/P's contrast ratio is rated at an extraordinarily lifelike 3,000:1, and the TV is capable of producing over 1 billion colors. Picture-enhancing technologies include the Mach Band Effect Enhancer, a Gamma Enhancement System, and Panasonic's New Real Black Drive System.

The High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) offers uncompressed digital data transmission between compatible devices, as between the TH-42PX25U/P and a DTV satellite receiver. Other connections include dual HD component-video inputs, 3 each composite- and S-video inputs, and front-panel A/V jacks for easy hookup with external devices, including an RGB PC input (15-pin mini D-Sub) offering up to 720p resolution. A set of composite-video-based A/V outputs simplifies hookup with an external A/V receiver and speaker system.

The TV's internal 2-way, biamplified stereo speakers are powered by 13 watts total per channel and use 5 separate drivers per speaker for extra richness and clarity. BBE ViVA HD3D surround processing creates authentic-sounding 3D effects from stereo speakers and exceptional sound-stage imaging, helping to ensure optimal clarity for centrally staged audio material such as dialogue. Artificial intelligence sound automatically adjusts the volume level on your TV to prevent wide variations in sound between different TV stations and types of programming.

Other features include V-Chip Program lockout, on/off sleep timers, a remote control, and closed-caption decoding.

Product Description

Panasonic's Plasma represents a major leap forward in plasma display technology. The thin, flat, large-screen plasma display delivers the world's highest levels of brightness and contrast. Its sharp pictures and natural, true-to-life colors make for an extremely impressive viewing experience.

Customer Reviews:

Great Picture, Great Bargain!.......2005-08-25

I have had my set for about 2 weeks now, and I am blown away by it's contrast and resolution.

This is my second set...the first set arrived and when I plugged it in, all I received was a blinking power light---turns out it has something to do with the power supply---according to Panansonic.

I use Radio Shack 'rabbit' ears for my reception and receive all four of the major networks and OPB in HD---Monday Night Football in HD is amazing! With the 'rabbit ears' I also receive all four major networks in SD---but why go back?

DVD's seem to look better on the Plasma than on my last Mitsubishi tube set---even thugh there is only 480 lines of resolution. I haven't tried the HDMI input yet, but others seem to be impressed by it.

I am using component video for my DVD and run the sound through Yamaha Audio/Video controller, Adcom amplifiers, and Polk Audio speakers.

The only bummer is that when the speakers on the Plasma are turned off, you can't adjust the 'volume level' using the Plasma remote---you just get a message saying 'speakers off'---you should be able to turn off the speakers and then have the audio out from your Plasma become a 'line out' so to speak---so you can control the audio levels of your surround system, when watching TV by using the volume on the Plasma remote control---why should I have to 'select' receiver and then adjust the volume?---heck that was available on my first Mitsubishi set 16 years ago.

Anway, minor complaint....all in all a fantastic set, that I would recommend to anyone---and a great bargain too!

Underwhelmed.......2005-07-19

Plasma buyers beware. Before you plunk down the BIG bucks for a plasma TV, look for other ways to spend $ around your house or take a vacation instead. Plasma TVs are underwhelming when all is said and done. Wide-screen programming is virtually non-existent, and resolutions are awful when you try to watch converted analog signals or stretched screens, also very dissapointing to view the dead-zone sidebars when you can't fill the screen. I spent 4Gs on this Panasonic and two months later the entire image skewed off the frame, needed a technician to reprogramme the bios (on site), ughhh, after hours of wasted support calls to both Panasonic and to my cable TV provider (both apparently ignorant about the issue). Wide screen TVs look best in the store.

Great TV.......2005-04-19

I am thrilled with this TV. I have a small apartment and the screen size is just right. Even the non HD picture is fantastic which is important because there are not that many HD broadcasts yet. My only complaint is that the sound is somewhat muffled on HD broadcasts. I plan on purchasing a separate amp, etc. I have purchased a Panasonic HDMI dvd player and dvd's are fantastic. I also have the cable company's HD DVR service. Once I get the sound system it should be perfect.

Glitch in the TV.......2005-03-16

I purchased this plasma TV through Amazon 4 months ago. The transaction and shipping went very smoothly. I also purchased the wall mounting bracket through Amazon (an excellent value for only $150).
The TV is great -- excellent picture and great audio for those of you who do not use their surround sound system every time the set is on. However, a problem recently surfaced a few days ago: When playing DVDs on the Component 1 channel, the picture on the screen is no longer centered -- it is offset by about 20% to the left side. After trying to remedy the problem myself, I contacted Panasonic Customer Service (be prepared to wait at least 20-30 minutes on the phone before being connected to a representative). After explaining the problem, the rep indicated it would warrant a service call by a repair person (as of this writing, the appointment is scheduled within the next few days) Luckily, the warranty covers in-house repairs for one year, but you do have to remove the TV from the wall mount yourself so it is accessible to the repair person.
I'll admit I'm a bit skeptical about the reliabilty of the TV now, especially since it developed this problem within 4 months. I'm not a fan of extended warranties (very expensive for this TV, considering an extra year of coverage through Panasonic costs around $400), but I may have to purchase one if any additional problems surface.
Hopefully, the problem with my Panasonic is a rarity. I expected better performance from this expensive purchase. Time will tell.

JPEG image viewing is very Dodgy.......2005-02-26

I bought this Plasma TV and it it Great, EXCEPT that I cannot view any JPEG images. What a hassle I went through buying dirrerent memory cards and PC card adapters only to find out that it will not display standard jpeg images and only specific images straight out of certain cameras. I have an older Minolta Digital Camera and these images do not conform, hog-wash. If you want to change the images in ANY way before showing them, red-eye, color balance, contrast, etc., it will not display them either.
I have found the same issue is true for their DVD Recorders as well; no jpegs except from specific cameras.

PARENT-Panasonic TH-42PX25U/P 42" High-Definition Plasma TV

Average customer rating:

PARENT-Panasonic TH-42PX25U/P 42" High-Definition Plasma TV

Manufacturer: Panasonic
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

Panasonic TH-42PX25U/P 42" High-Definition Plasma TV with Wall-Mount Installation

Average customer rating:

Panasonic TH-42PX25U/P 42" High-Definition Plasma TV with Wall-Mount Installation

Manufacturer: Panasonic
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

42-inch gas-plasma TV with wall-mount installation; 44.9 x 29.8 x 5.5 inches (W x H x D)
Built-in NTSC and digital ATSC/QAM tuners; high 3,000:1 contrast ratio and 1,024 x 768 native pixel resolution with HDTV/EDTV display capability (1080i/480p)
High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) offers direct-digital A/V connection with compatible gear; accepts 720p input through front-panel PC/RGB analog input
Photo viewer through SD/PC Card slots; CableCARD compatibility obviates the need for a separate box for digital cable reception
Biamplified 2-way speakers with 26 watts total power; BBE ViVA HD3D Sound simulates surround sound from any 2 speakers

ASIN: B0007UBV8S

Description of Wall-Mount Installation

Wall-mount installation includes securing mounting bracket to wall and attaching the TV. It does not include concealing wires within walls or custom in-wall wiring. After your purchase of the TV with installation, a professional installer will contact you to schedule the arrival time of the two-man installation crew. Expect the installer to inquire about the particulars of your installation plans; if electrical or other work is needed, you will need to arrange for that. The installers will secure the manufacturer-included mounting bracket to your frame or masonry wall, mount and secure your TV, and connect the TV to your pre-existing exposed AC power supply using neat wire management. They will attach cables from your tuner source and other video inputs (up to 15 feet), integrate your TV with an existing home theater or audio system located in the same room, and program new universal-style remote(s). If you provide upgraded wires or accessories, they will work with those. All wires and cables will be dressed using wire ties and neatly routed to your TV. Wire clippings or any other debris caused by the installation will be cleaned up, and the TV box and packing materials will be removed from your home. Upon completion, the installers will review the installation with you to ensure your satisfaction. There is a one-year labor warranty on this installation.

Amazon.com Product Description

The set's authorized CableCARD ability means the set will also receive digital cable television systems services directly from the cable operator without requiring a bulky, external cable box.

The Benefits of HDTV

Standard TVs (SDTVs) display a maximum of 480 lines using the interlaced scan method, which creates a picture with alternating lines of information.

Enhanced-definition TVs (EDTVs) display a maximum of 480 lines using the progressive-scan method, which creates an image using consecutive lines of information for a crisp, flicker-free picture.

High-definition TVs (HDTVs) display a maximum of either 1,080 interlaced lines or 720 progressively scanned lines for the sharpest possible image.

With a plasma screen you get vivid colors like you've never seen before, extremely wide viewing angles (wider, even, than those of most LCD screens), and easy placement due to a plasma monitor's slim profile--the TH-42PX25U/P is a mere 5.5 inches deep, perfect for desk or wall mounting. Brightness tends to be extremely uniform across plasma screens, which are also impervious to the picture distortion and negative color balances that afflict CRT monitors when placed near lighting or sound systems.

Other features include V-Chip Program lockout, on/off sleep timers, a remote control, and closed-caption decoding.

What's in the Box
TV, remote control, remote batteries (2 AA), a pedestal base, an AC power cord, F-type coaxial antenna adapters, ferrite cores, 2 clampers, a warranty card, a customer card, and a service-center list.

Panasonic TH-42PX25U/P 42" High-Definition Plasma TV with Matching-Base Installation
Average customer rating:

Two years later and still going strong.

Panasonic TH-42PX25U/P 42" High-Definition Plasma TV with Matching-Base Installation

Manufacturer: Panasonic
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

Categories | Electronics | Accessories & Supplies | Audio & Video | Camera & Photo | Car Electronics | Computers & Add-Ons | GPS & Navigation | Home Automation & Security | Office Electronics
Product Features:

42-inch gas-plasma TV with matching-base installation; 44.9 x 29.8 x 5.5 inches (W x H x D)

Built-in NTSC and digital ATSC/QAM tuners; high 3,000:1 contrast ratio and 1,024 x 768 native pixel resolution with HDTV/EDTV display capability (1080i/480p)

High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) offers direct-digital A/V connection with compatible gear; accepts 720p input through front-panel PC/RGB analog input

Photo viewer through SD/PC Card slots; CableCARD compatibility obviates the need for a separate box for digital cable reception

Biamplified 2-way speakers with 26 watts total power; BBE ViVA HD3D Sound simulates surround sound from any 2 speakers

ASIN: B0007UBV2O

Description of Matching-Base Installation

Matching-base installation includes assembly of the manufacturer-provided base and attaching it to the TV. It does not include concealing wires within walls or any custom in-wall wiring. After your purchase of the TV with installation, a professional installer will contact you to schedule the arrival time of the two-man installation crew. Expect the installer to inquire about the particulars of your installation plans; if electrical or other work is needed, you will need to arrange for that. The installers will assemble the base, secure the base to the TV, and connect the TV to your pre-existing exposed AC power supply using neat wire management. They will attach cables from your tuner source and other video inputs (up to 15 feet), integrate your TV with an existing home theater or audio system located in the same room, and program new universal-style remote(s). If you provide upgraded wires or accessories, they will work with those. All wires and cables will be dressed using wire ties and neatly routed to your TV. Wire clippings or any other debris caused by the installation will be cleaned up, and the TV box and packing materials will be removed from your home. Upon completion, the installers will review the installation with you to ensure your satisfaction. There is a one-year labor warranty on this installation.

Amazon.com Product Description

The set's authorized CableCARD ability means the set will also receive digital cable television systems services directly from the cable operator without requiring a bulky, external cable box.

The Benefits of HDTV

Standard TVs (SDTVs) display a maximum of 480 lines using the interlaced scan method, which creates a picture with alternating lines of information.

Enhanced-definition TVs (EDTVs) display a maximum of 480 lines using the progressive-scan method, which creates an image using consecutive lines of information for a crisp, flicker-free picture.

High-definition TVs (HDTVs) display a maximum of either 1,080 interlaced lines or 720 progressively scanned lines for the sharpest possible image.

With a plasma screen you get vivid colors like you've never seen before, extremely wide viewing angles (wider, even, than those of most LCD screens), and easy placement due to a plasma monitor's slim profile--the TH-42PX25U/P is a mere 5.5 inches deep, perfect for desk or wall mounting. Brightness tends to be extremely uniform across plasma screens, which are also impervious to the picture distortion and negative color balances that afflict CRT monitors when placed near lighting or sound systems.

Other features include V-Chip Program lockout, on/off sleep timers, a remote control, and closed-caption decoding.

Customer Reviews:

Two years later and still going strong........2006-07-03

I realize this particular model is not anymore available, I only post this to illustrate the staying power of the Panasonic design which was lambasted 2 years ago as having a very short projected lifespan. Actually, this model was rated at 60,000 hours, so I wont need to replace it anytime soon.

The newer 8UK HD Panasonics are a drastic improvement over this model with higher contrast levels, deeper blacks, and richer colors. But you may end up paying for all the inputs you need. They were all standard features on this old model with the exception of DVI.

Panasonic TH-42PX25U/P 42" High-Definition Plasma TV with Wall-Mount Concealed-Wiring Installation

Average customer rating:

Panasonic TH-42PX25U/P 42" High-Definition Plasma TV with Wall-Mount Concealed-Wiring Installation

Manufacturer: Panasonic
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

42-inch gas-plasma TV with wall-mount, concealed-wiring installation; 44.9 x 29.8 x 5.5 inches (W x H x D)
Built-in NTSC and digital ATSC/QAM tuners; high 3,000:1 contrast ratio and 1,024 x 768 native pixel resolution with HDTV/EDTV display capability (1080i/480p)
High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) offers direct-digital A/V connection with compatible gear; accepts 720p input through front-panel PC/RGB analog input
Photo viewer through SD/PC Card slots; CableCARD compatibility obviates the need for a separate box for digital cable reception
Biamplified 2-way speakers with 26 watts total power; BBE ViVA HD3D Sound simulates surround sound from any 2 speakers

ASIN: B0007UBVG0

Description of Wall-Mount, Concealed-Wiring Installation

Wall-mount, concealed-wiring installation includes securing mounting bracket to wall, attaching the TV, and hiding wiring up to 15 feet. After your purchase of the TV with installation, a professional installer will contact you to schedule the arrival time of the two-man installation crew. Expect the installer to inquire about the particulars of your installation plans; if electrical or other work is needed, you will need to arrange for that. The installers will secure the manufacturer-included mounting bracket to your frame or masonry wall, mount and secure the TV, connect it to a pre-existing exposed AC power supply using neat wire management, integrate it with a pre-existing home theater or audio system located in the same room, and program new universal-style remote(s). In addition, they will attach and conceal cables from your tuner source and other video inputs by routing up to 15 feet through your frame wall, or, if necessary, using installer-provided matching or paintable track molding. If you provide upgraded wires or accessories, they will work with those. All wires and cables will be dressed using wire ties and neatly routed to your TV. Wire clippings, drywall dust, or any other debris caused by the installation will be cleaned up, and the TV box and packing materials will be removed from your home. Upon completion, the installers will review the installation with you to ensure your satisfaction. There is a one-year labor warranty on the installation.

Amazon.com Product Description

The set's authorized CableCARD ability means the set will also receive digital cable television systems services directly from the cable operator without requiring a bulky, external cable box.

The Benefits of HDTV

Standard TVs (SDTVs) display a maximum of 480 lines using the interlaced scan method, which creates a picture with alternating lines of information.

Enhanced-definition TVs (EDTVs) display a maximum of 480 lines using the progressive-scan method, which creates an image using consecutive lines of information for a crisp, flicker-free picture.

High-definition TVs (HDTVs) display a maximum of either 1,080 interlaced lines or 720 progressively scanned lines for the sharpest possible image.

With a plasma screen you get vivid colors like you've never seen before, extremely wide viewing angles (wider, even, than those of most LCD screens), and easy placement due to a plasma monitor's slim profile--the TH-42PX25U/P is a mere 5.5 inches deep, perfect for desk or wall mounting. Brightness tends to be extremely uniform across plasma screens, which are also impervious to the picture distortion and negative color balances that afflict CRT monitors when placed near lighting or sound systems.

Other features include V-Chip Program lockout, on/off sleep timers, a remote control, and closed-caption decoding.

Electronics:

Electronics

electronics

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