18WP 12 LCD Group Test

26/9/05

3:18 pm

Page 51

GROUP TEST

FEATURES
Analogue tuner; Fastext; HD-ready, SRS WOW; 600:1 contrast ratio; 500cd/m2 brightness; 178 viewing angle; 1,366 x 768 resolution CONNECTIONS HDMI in; DVI in; Component video in; Scart x2 (RGB); S-video in; composite video in; stereo audio in x2; RF aerial in; headphone out; stereo audio out CONTACT www.lgelectronics.co.uk
Black levels are striking extremely deep, but still showing impressive depth and detail

LG 32LX2R

G has an extensive flat TV range, with a mix of plasmas and LCDs. One of the latest models to join the Korean makers extensive ranks, the 32LX2R looks like the perfect mid-sized LCD candidate, boasting a set of features that ensure its ready for the flat future. Topping the future-proof list are both HDMI and DVI inputs, which means that the 32LX2R can be hooked up to not one, but two, high-definition sources a Sky HD box and a digital-outputting DVD player, for example (supported by the screens 1,366 x 768 resolution). LG hasnt skimped on analogue connections either, and these comprise component video and two RGB Scarts, as well as the usual S-video and composite video fallbacks. however, its really a minor grumble particularly if youre planning to hook the screen up to the aforementioned HD Sky box. When it comes to aesthetics, the LGs chunky frame surround combined with its large, swivelling tabletop stand means its larger than the other 32in sets in this test. Still, the black-gloss finish helps it to look more upmarket and, thankfully, that blue neon light beneath the screen can be switched off.

Analogue eye-sore

Sadly, however, pictures from the analogue TV tuner are considerably more offensive to the eyes. The LG struggles with such low-resolution material and images are frequently blocky and unresolved, with a good deal of graininess and fizzing that actually makes lower-quality American broadcasts difficult to watch. That XD Engine processing clearly does little to help in this area. However, DVD pictures via the digital inputs or high-quality analogue connections fare significantly better. First on the tick list is that colours are both vibrant and natural from The Matrix Reloaded no small feat considering the movies tricky palette. Its the LGs black levels that are the most striking, though the set manages to go extremely deep, but still show an impressive amount of depth and detail in the darkness. This quality works well with dimly lit sequences of our test disc, and

The XD factor

Other features are plentiful and include LGs proprietary XD Engine processing, which should tinker with the picture to provide the optimum performance with DVI or HDMI. Theres even an Intelligent Eye, which continually optimises pictures according to the images on-screen and the lighting conditions in the room. The usual manual picture adjustments are also available, along with a picture-in-picture mode. The 32LX2R has a built-in TV tuner, but unlike on Sonys same-sized KDL-V32A12U, its not a Freeview digital model. While this means that the LG isnt quite the forwardthinking all-rounder we thought it was,
adds new levels of detail to Trinitys shiny black PVC costume. There is one flaw, however. As with analogue tuner material, theres some fizzing and graininess during brighter scenes such as the slow-motion motorway stunt sequences. But this is fairly minor, and doesnt significantly weaken the LGs cinematic picture qualities elsewhere. As is so often the case, the 32LX2Rs audio just cant keep pace with its pictures. Bass is weak, leaving The Matrix Reloadeds powerful soundtrack sounding a bit thin. Whats more, the SRS WOW mode does little to widen the soundstage. We wont go so far as to say the 32LX2R is the perfect LCD. But while analogue TV and audio arent strong points, its performance with DVD and HD sources make this a great, future-proof movie machine. WP

THE FLAT FACTS

I 32IN LCD I 1,200 I HD-READY: YES I RESOLUTION 1,366 x 768 I SPEAKERS: YES I TV TUNER: YES (ANALOGUE) I SCARTS: 2 (RGB)

RATINGS

PICTURE.####$ SOUND.###$$ CONNECTIONS.##### FEATURES.####$ EASE OF USE.####$ VALUE.##### Not great for TV, but an impressive set for DVD and the high-definition future

VERDICT #####

ISSUE 18
WHAT PLASMA & LCD TV 51