GUIDE TO REVIEWS
RATINGS These are the most important part of the test as they provide you with the knowledge of how a piece of kit has fared. PICTURE: Almost certainly the most important rating, with all-round watchability taking top priority. However, both high-denition and standarddenition performance are taken into consideration where applicable. SOUND: Fidelity and power are vital considerations for TVs. In the case of DVD players, this refers more specically to analogue music performance (usually with a CD) as opposed to digital audio piped out to an amplier. VERDICT An overall conclusion score that sums up the product based on a combination of performance, value for money and features in a star rating out of ve. This provides the rst indication of whether or not a product is a genuine winner or one that should be avoided at all costs.
BEHOLD THE FINEST FLATSCREEN TV EVER!
SEE HOW IT STACKS UP OVERLEAF.
A stinker, avoid at all costs This probably isnt for you Average, neither a stunner or a loser Well worth an audition A Best Buy that will take some beating
020 / What Video & Hi-Def TV / Issue 333

WHV333.on_test 020

28/3/08 12:28:58

/ ISSUE 333

TECH LABS
All equipment tested in What Video and Hi-Def TV has been evaluated by Audiovisual Tech Labs the UKs leading independent product-testing facility. Every Best Buy comes with the Audiovisual Tech Labs guarantee of quality, and is backed up by veriable test data. Only magazines from Future Publishing Limited have access to Audiovisual Tech Labs. Look out for this badge its the only sure-re way of buying a genuine winner instead of a turkey. All prices listed are guide prices only and youre sure to nd better deals if you shop around.

KIT ON TEST THIS MONTH

/PLASMA & LCD TV 22 Pioneer PDP-LX508D 28 Loewe Connect LG 50PGHumax LGB32-DST 34 Mirai DTL-832EPanasonic TX-32LZD80 /BLU-RAY PLAYER 38 Sony BDP-S300 3,500 1,950 1,360 850

SEAL OF APPROVAL

/FREEVIEW PVR 40 Topeld TF5810PVR /PROJECTOR 42 InFocus IN82
The What Video & Hi-Def TV Best Buy logo provides a guarantee of quality, ensuring that the product is among the very best on the market. The Value Buy award is given to kit that, though not the best available, represents fantastic value for money.

BITE SIZE GROUP TEST

/26IN TVS FROM Finlux 26FLDLG 26LCSamsung LE26R87BDX 45 Sony KDL-26PPanasonic TX-26LMD70A 420

IN-DEPTH GROUP TEST

/37IN TVS 48 Hitachi L37XLG 37LTPanasonic TH-37PXPhilips 37PFL5522D 52 Samsung LE37R87BDX 550
Issue 333/ What Video & Hi-Def TV / 021

WHV333.on_test 021

28/3/08 12:29:25

TV buying advice Live Q&A - Spring 2011 - Friday 8 April
Transcript of Which? Live Event at http://www.which.co.uk/technology/tv-anddvd/reviews-ns/tv-buying-advice-live---which-member-exclusive/
Al Warman: From all of us here at Which?, have a great weekend, whether you're watching TV, buying a TV or relaxing and enjoying the good weather. And if you've got any feedback on this afternoon's Live Event, please do let us know atlive@which.co.uk
Dave Holes (Which?): Ok - goodbye all - thanks for some excellent questions - hope we've managed to help.
Mike Briggs (Which?): That's it from us folks. Thanks for all the questions
Al Warman: Next week, there's an opportunity for Which? members to ask all their baby-related questions to our experts. (Different experts, I must stress. The tech team know their TVs and Blu-rays inside out, but buggies, car seats and high chairs aren't our speciality!) http://www.which.co.uk/babyand-child/nursery-and-feeding/reviews-ns/baby-products-live-qanda---which-member-exclusive/
Al Warman: There's a list of upcoming Which? LIVE Events athttp://www.which.co.uk/LIVE
Al Warman: Thanks to everyone who has joined us this afternoon - we hope you've found it useful. There's just 8 minutes of this live session left, so if you've got a pressing question, get typing fast!
Ben Stevens (Which?): LG has just announced a prototype of a 7-inch 3D-enabled digital mobile TV. Probably a little way off - and perhaps not even UK compatible, but while this window was open I thought I'd pass on the news.
[Comment From Nick Coster] Many thanks for the advice Dave.
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi Barbara, if you're after a bargain stick to 2010 models. This restricts your choice to Panasonic plasma TVs - the VT20 has a great 3D picture (the best we've seen) plus a Freesat tuner. However, we were disappointed with the standard definition picture. If you're willing to splash the cash then Panasonic's new 2011 TVs greatly expand its 3D/freesat range. The ST30, GT30 and VT30 plasma TVs will all fit the bill. We haven't fully tested them yet though so recommend you hold fire. Likewise with Samsung's new ranges. It is adding Freesat to its high-end D8000 range. On first impressions it looks great, and we liked the look of the new lightweight 3D glasses. We've got this and the GT30 at the lab at the moment. Results are due on June 3rd.
[Comment From Barbara ] We have a Panasonic LED TV on the wall which is excellent`with built-in freesat, would now like to buy a 42-46" TV possbly with 3D. Do these 3D TVs have freesat built-in as we will be linking to our Bose system and for recording via blu ray player. What can you recommend, please.
Dave Holes (Which?): Hi Nick - we haven't tried picking up Hotbird using the Humax but theoretically yes I think this should work. Might be worth giving Humax a call to get the definitive answer from their experts.
[Comment From Nick Coster] Thanks for the reply to my cut off message. I was going to ask if the Humax would pick up Hotbird as well, given that a LNB was available.
Jack Turner: Hi Terra. The 1080p/24 problem is no longer an issue, so if you're looking at modern TVs no need to worry about this. With regards to energy saving, it's true that LEDs are more energy efficient than plasmas, and most TVs these days have specific energy-saving features. Popular ones include light sensors, which dim the TV according to the light source in the room, and models which actually turn off when nobody is viewing them. Concerning home cinema systems, it depends how much you're looking to spend. The Sony BDV-E370 is our current highest-rated home cinema system, and costs around 400. However, if budget is important, the LG-HT304 is around 180, and did very well in our tests too.
[Comment From Terra ] Thanks Jack for your advice on Internet conections and Freeview tuner as useful. Any other considerations I need to prioritise for the future? I am confused with all the information about 1080p/24 causing problems watching Blue ray discs. Ideally I would like to watch ols DVD and VCRs too. I like energy saving, but does it mean LED? I like good sound, so I need homecinema sound system? Any recommendation?

Dave Holes (Which?): Hi Nick - your question cut off halfway through but if I understand you correctly then yes the Humax should pick up the Astra channels too.
[Comment From Nick Coster] A little off topic, but in your review of the Humax Foxsat STB, you stated that it would pick up Astra channels as well as Freesat ones. We have a monobloc LNB on our dish, tuned to both Astra and Hotbird. Would the Humax pi
[Comment From Richard ] Great help! Thanks guys!
[Comment From Doug Carline] Thanks guys I hope Which can do these sessions on a regular basis - particularly good for the latest developments in technology. Cheers
Ben Stevens (Which?): Hi Richard, Based on last year's TVs, I'd suggest a Samsung LE40C750, or the slightly pricier Samsung UE407000. These two models performed the best in our lab tests, and as their coming to the end of their line, may be discounted in the shops. Failing that, a 40-inch EX403 or EX503 from Sony would be worth tracking down. All the manufacturers are beginning to launch their 2011 models, so if you may want to hold off until we've tested a few of this year's ranges and can form a decent opinion on them, or you may want to look for a 2010 TV if you'd like to pick up a bargain.
[Comment From Richard ] Thanks. What sets should we consider?
Dave Holes (Which?): Hi Rich - we're possibly planning a soundbar test later this year but can't recommend one at present. Interestingly Panasonic are building soundbars into their latest range and obviously well be testing them too.
[Comment From rich] Guys - Is there a reasonably priced and reasonably sized soundbar that you would reccommend?
Ben Stevens (Which?): Hi Richard, Based on a rule of thumb you should consider a 40-inch TV. It might seem like a big leap from a 28-inch model, but flat panel TVs require considerably less space than old tube TVs.
[Comment From Richard ] We're still viewing a 28" tube Panasonic which doesn't want to die. When we do upgrade, what size & set would you suggest? We sit about 11' from the set.
Dave Holes (Which?): Hi Doug - we haven't tested these models yet but you remember correctly re: 2.1. We've never been big fans of 2.1 systems - they just don't deliver a decent surround sound effect. If you really want good surround sound you'll need a 5.1 system.
[Comment From Doug Carline]
Thanks. Any views on the 'all-in-one' mini home cinema systems from Marantz (Melody Movie) & Denon (DX100BD) Basically both 'stereo' sound but obviously good brands , easy to install & not a 'maze' of speaker cable required. If i remember Which didn't rate any 2.1 systems that much? Thanks again.
[Comment From John ] Jack, many thanks. I had been wondering about that one but wasn't sure just how good it was. Our BEST TV retailer near here, which I would have gone to to see the model, has just gone bust - Bennetts.

Jack Turner: Hi John. I'd suggest the Panasonic TX-L19C20, which is around 200. We were very impressed with this model when we tested it. If you're after something a bit cheaper, there's the LCD 19LD350, which isn't quite as impressive as the Panasonic, but it is a good all rounder, and costs around 150.
[Comment From John ] Helo. I'm looking for a good TV, around 19inch, freeview built in. Not bothered about HD or 3D. It will share its time between the bedroom and kitchen. What would be the best to go for - price is relatively important.
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi Jon, yes you just select the input you want to watch from the source menu system (and set that as the default). cheers
[Comment From jon ] thanks for that info Mike. since i'm finally going to upgrade to a decent tv and PVR can you choose whether to use the built in tuner with your tv or instead use the PVR to get digital reception - it may be the later is easier to operate,has a better EPG,etc.
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi Doug, I'd opt for the samsung UE46C7000. We've tested the 40-inch version and that was a cracking set. simply stunning picture, easy to use and loads of extras (for insatnce a great Net TV app store). Sound is OKish at best. Worth considering the Panasonic TX-L42D25 too. Picture is a bit stark, but it's a solid Best Buy. Check out the LG Infinia range - we've tested the 55-inch (you can also get a 47-inch version). HD is amazing. The LG and samsung are 3D sets, but don't let that put you off!
[Comment From Doug Carline ] I am looking for an LED Backlit set between 42-47". Not bothered about 3D. Your suggestions would be most welcome. Thank you
[Comment From Mark ] Thanks
Jack Turner: Hi Mark. We have reviewed the PS3 for it's Blu Ray abilities, and whilst it wasn't a best buy, it wasn't too far off. It's not worth buying a 'stand alone' Blu Ray player if you own the console, as it is more than competent. It also plays 3D Blu Rays too of course, a nice feature which was added with a free update.

[Comment From Mark ] Slightly off topic, but I have a Playstaion 3 which I use for Blu ray viewing and was wandering if I would get a better quality picture if I spent out on a stand alone unit. Thanks for your advice
[Comment From rich] thanks again Mike
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi Jon, quality will be the same whether it's a set-top box, pvr or built-in tuner. We've come across the odd TV here and there with built in hard drive recorders, but surprisingly not that many. Far more common are TVs with the option to record on a USB drive or external hard drive. These a very simple single tuner PVRs, so give you the option to record, but without all the bells and whistles of a standalone PVR. If you want full PVR functionality (watch one channel and record another, series link etc) then opt for a seperate box. Humax make the best Freeview and Freesat PVRs at the moment.
[Comment From jon ] most tv's have built in freeview or freesat but is the quality as good as stand alone set top box or PVR. also can you get a tv with built in hard disk recorder or is it just the digital receiver alone that you get - in which case i suppose you'd need a separate PVR if you wanted to record?
Dave Holes (Which?): Hello again Tony - sorry misread the question LED TVs are basically LCD sets but instead of a backlight they illuminate the screen with hundreds of smaller LEDs (light emitting diodes) which allows them to be much thinner. This looks great aesthetically but has an impact on the sound as there simply isn't the room to include decent speakers. In general sound quality is poor although this needn't be an issue if you intend on feeding the audio through a hi-fi system.
Mike Briggs (Which?): Rich - LZD85 settings for standard definition below. Afraid the Sony file has been lost in the mists of time! Brightness 47/63 Contrast 41/63 Colour 27/63 Picture profile Normal Sharpness 3/6 Other "Colour balance: Cool Colour management: Off P-NR: Off" We didn't record them for HD back then, but they should be virtually identical.
[Comment From rich ] Cheers Mike, I actually have 2 models - A Sony KDL20s3000 & Panny TX32LZD85. Thanks very much
Dave Holes (Which?): Hi Tony - LCD or plasma? There are pros and cons: LCD TVs come in a much larger range of sizes and tend to use less power than plasma TV sets, but viewing angles can often be inferior. Plasma TVs are only available in large screen sizes of 37 inches or more but tend to do blacks better. They can be prone to screen burn, but we dont think this is really an issue anymore. Other than that, the two technologies are strikingly similar. Picture quality has far more to do with the processing software and the brand name behind it than the type of television.

[Comment From Tony] LED vs LCD. What are the advantages/disadvantages of both? Thanks
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi Rich, that's something we're very keen to get included on site, so your comment will only strengthen our case to get it added! But in the meantime if you tell me the model and give me a bit of time I might be able to dig up the old results and post a reply.
[Comment From rich ] On another note, do you have an archive where i can find the best picture settings from your older reviews?
[Comment From Guest] Thanks for you advice, looks like ill stick with the EX503 for a bit.
[Comment From rich] Thanks
Jack Turner: Hi Rich. We haven't tested the E30 yet, but we do currently have one in our lab. We'll be bringing you full results in the first week of June.
[Comment From rich] Have you had a chance to look at the new Panasonic L'x'E30B range yet?
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi guest, there is rarely a massive jump in quality from a good mid range set (like your EX503) to top of the end models. Pictures on mid and high end Sony models are very similar and natural looking. Best example of this is from samsung. it's mid range 6 series looks almost as good as the high end 7 and 8 series LED Tvs. but for a fraction of the cost. We also find audio on some mid range LCD TVs to be better than their high-end LED counterparts too.
[Comment From Guest ] I currently own a 40 EX503 and was wondering how much the picture quality improves as you pay more for a set ie HX 803 or any other brands expensive models? Is there a massive jump in detail, clarity and depth or would you say it was worth sticking with what I have now.
I currently only use the TV for watching BLU RAY films. Thanks for your advice.
[Comment From Sue] Many thanks
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi Sue, we haven't tested the 32-inch D28, but have looked at the virtually identical 32-inch D25. Sound is better than average but not outstanding (it lacks punch and sounds quite artificial) but it is Full HD and does have both freeview hd and freesat tuners. Best sound we've heard on a 32-inch TV of late is the Sony 32EX503 (but that is in the context of audio on flat panel Tvs generally being disappointing). Sony also has a very good 'voice zoom' feature, which boosts dialogue over background noise. Only has a Freeview HD tuner though. The D25 is discontinued - but that doesn't mean you can't buy it, and shopuld mean you can pick it up much cheaper than brand new ranges.

[Comment From sue ] Can you give an idea of the pros and cons of the Panasonic TXL 32D 28B. My mother wants full HD, Freesat and Freeview. Retailers claim that this one has better sound than some because of larger speakers -very important for hard of hearing person. Not interested in 3D or internet connection etc. Apparently this model is now discontinued - any disadvantages there?
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi Tony, You're not going to see much picture quality difference with a 1080p TV in the 19-26 screen size, but the 1080p label may indicate the set is from a mid to high end range, and therefor a better indicator of overall quality. We're a bit sparse in the 26-inch area at the moment, but the 19inch Panasonic TX-19C20 is our top scoring small TV. Cracking picture and very easy to use. Panasonic also has a good LED - the 22D28. And if you're on a budget take a look at the LG 19D350 and 19LE3300.
[Comment From Tony ] Looking for a new bedroom TV between 19 - 26 inches. As well as SD TV use, it will be occasionally used for playing Blu Rays and PS3. Is it worth concerning myself with things like "LCD vs LED" and "full 1080p HD" on a smaller TV? Also, could you suggest any suitable TVs to check out? Thanks :-)
Ben Stevens (Which?): No problem Ian. The review of the 403 is herehttp://www.which.co.uk/technology/tv-anddvd/reviews/led--lcd-and-plasma-tv/sony-bravia-kdl-32ex403/review/
Dave Holes (Which?): Hi Tina, We're not huge fans of 200Hz technology - it can work but it can sometimes make the picture look unnatural (we often just turn it off in the menus system). Don't be swayed by 200Hz logos they're a bit of a marketing ploy. Both the TVs you mention are great but 200Hz is a red-herring.
[Comment From Tina P] My old tube tele is not repairable and so I was looking for a new one. I have studied the which reports and am dithering between the Samsung LE40C650 or LE40C750. One has 100hz and the other 200Hz yet the rating is about a 2 per cent difference, why is the 200hz not superior please?
[Comment From Ian ] Thanks Ben. I don't think I knew that you had tested the 403
Ben Stevens (Which?): Hi Ian, I've just seen that the Sony CX523 is one of Sony's 2011 models, so we haven't reviewed it yet - and I'm afraid it's not in the first batch either.
Ben Stevens (Which?): Hi Ian, The KDL-32EX403 only narrowly missed out on being a Best Buy. It wouldn't be a bad purchase. Not sure about the CX523. Mike's slacking and has just stepped away from his desk, but I'll ask him when he returns. He may know.
[Comment From Ian ] I'm looking for a replacement 32 inch TV and am taken with your advice to buy a bargain now. I had intended buying Panasonic but your recent reports have swayed me towards Sony. Do you know what are the two TVs being offered by M&S and John Lewis: KDL-32EX403 and CX523 ?

If you're planning to wait before buying a new TV, why? Lower prices ( 11% ) Newer features ( 0% ) To read Which? reviews ( 11% ) Web TV or YouView ( 22% ) My old TV is fine! ( 56% ) Other - let us know your comments ( 0% )
Ben Stevens (Which?): Sorry Nick Foley, half of my answer seemed to disappear. The best 32-inch TV we tested last year was the C650 from Samsung, closely followed by the C6000. The latter offers terrific picture quality, but sound awful. Remember that you can sidestep this with external speakers, or a hifi sytem - but that's not what everyone wants to do. It seems to me that 37-inch models are a little rarer this year. Maybe people are upgrading from 37-inch TVs to larger ones or buying second TVs for their bedrooms. Do you have a flat panel TV. It's quite true what the salepeople say: Flat panels take up less space than their CRT counterparts with the samee sized screen. If you were shopping for a 40-inch model you'd have more choice.
[Comment From Nick Foley ] Hello again Ben. Really helpful but it rather confirms all I have discovered thus far. Unless you see something coming along soon, I'll leave it there. Thanks again
Dave Holes (Which?): Hi Margaret - SD stands for standard definition (ie normal TV rather than the better highdefinintion or HD standard). The bulk of TV programming still comes in SD format so it's still important though an increasing amount is now in high-definition. The SD picture quality wasn't a disaster just not as good as the best TVs we've seen.
[Comment From Margaret Coutts] Dave, What is meant by SD picture quality and how poor is it.
[Comment From Nigel ] Thanks for the help guys - I'll save the hard-earned dosh for now!
Jack Turner: Hi Nigel. We have tested the Playstation 3 for it's Blu-ray abilities, and we were quite impressed. It wasn't quite a Best Buy, but still not a bad machine, and can hold it's own against other Blu-ray players. There's more advice in our Blu-ray buyers' guide
Mike Briggs (Which?): HI Rob, we haven't tested an integrated TV/DVD for a while. They tend to take up the budget end of the market, and though we don't rule out testing budget TVs, we tend to draw the line at integrated products. Having said that, the standalone budget brands we've tested are usually quite poor (in every respect). Better to opt for one of the big brands - Panasonic 19C20 is a cracking 19-inch TV. Or if you're on a budget go for the LG 19D530 or 19LE3300
[Comment From Rob ] Guys, I'm after a 19"/22" TV to fit on a wall at home. It needs to be light, as it's going on a plaster wall, but I want one with a built-in DVD player and Freeview if possible. Any recommendations?

[Comment From Nigel ]

Thanks for the reply about our Panasonic set, Mike. Tried BluRay via the kids Playstation but wasn't much improvement over our 720p upscaling DVD player. Would a "proper" BluRay player make a difference?
Ben Stevens (Which?): Hi Nick Foley, Panasonic's 32-inch models were a little disappointing from last year. Samsung led the way in this size bracket last year. The LE32C650 LCD telly was great. The issue we come across with Samsung's tellies from last year, though, is their sound quality.
[Comment From Nick Foley ] Thanks, Ben. Anything from Panasonic or Samsung in 32 to 37 range with good picture and especially good sound quality
Jack Turner: Hi Adele. The resolution displayed by the D8000 (as an example) should be more than adequate for using a connected PC, and you will probably notice a much marked improvement from your older TV's!
[Comment From Adele ] Follow-up to my question about the TV acting as a second screen. What I am really wondering is whether the resolution on my computer screen will be matched on the TV screen (not the case on our by now elderly sets!)?
What do you watch most often in HD? Freeview HD ( 6% ) Freesat HD ( 6% ) Sky or Virgin Media HD ( 18% ) Blu-ray discs ( 24% ) Games consoles (PS3, Xbox) ( 6% ) I don't have an HD TV ( 41% )
[Comment From George ] Thanks Mike for your input. Have a good day.
Dave Holes (Which?): Hi Margaret - we don't actually have any current 26" Best Buys - the best of the bunch at present is the Samsung LE26B450 - good picture quality but unfortunately poor sound.
[Comment From Margaret Coutts ] Thanks Dave. Could you recommend best buy 26" television
Mike Briggs (Which?): Sure, take a look at the Samsung L32C650 or L32C530. Both full HD 32-inch LCD TVs. Cracking picture on the 6 series, audio is slightly better on the 5 series. 6 series has internet tv too. Check out the Sony 32EX503 too. If you want something bigger (and still within budget) go for the samsung LE40C530.
[Comment From Guest ] Mike, are there any models nos that you can suggest for Sony and Samsung that I could consider to purchase/ Price range up to 400.
Ben Stevens (Which?): Ni Nick Foley, The HX range from Sony is the company's top end line up, and the smallest model in that range is around 40-inches. If you want something smaller, you'll have to step down a range or two to the EX series, where you'll find models ranging from 26-inches to 55-inches. These TVs won't have all the features that the HX models have. The 32-inch EX503 and EX403 were great when we tested them last year. Might be tricky to track down now though.

Jack Turner: Hi Adele. Some Samsung 2011 models do have a full bespoke web browser, such as the D8000. However, we've had a look at this in the lab, and we did find it awkward and slightly clunky.
[Comment From Adele ] Is the web browser on the latest Samsung D series like Firefox or Safari? IE can you see everything that a regular browser shows?
Al Warman: Thanks to everyone who's asked a question so far - we've got plenty lined up being answered by the team right now. Adele and Nigel, we'll have detailed replies shortly.
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi Rod, we haven't fully tested the new Samsungs yet, so we'll reserve full judgement. On first impressions though the 8000 series looked truly stunning (but early lab reports suggest they've messed up the YouTube app). We'll publish first results for Samsung Series 4, 7 and 8 TVs on the 3rd of June.
[Comment From Rod Harrison ] Thanks. What would you recommend in the new Samsung range please?
Ben Stevens (Which?): Hi Jeremy, We've spoken to our lab about this, but it's not something that they've encountered. I'll drop our contact at Samsung an email now and see if he has a response. With a bit of luck he might get back to me before this Q&A session is through.
[Comment From Jeremy Klein ] Does the Technology Team have any comments on the reported problems with Samsung 3D TVs seehttp://www.avforums.com/forums/3d-tvs/1380473-please-post-here-if-you-have-samsung-glasses-losing-sync-problems-14.html. Having bought a Samsung TV I can confirm that there is a problem with the Samsung glasses which appears unresolved. It is evident that Samsung's customer service leaves a lot to be desired.
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi George, you're spoilt for choice at the moment. There are loads of end of line bargains to be had (last years ranges are being replaced with new 2011 ranges), especially in the 32-inch camp. Try Samsung series 6 if you want internet TV and all the extras (along with a cracking picture). Samsung series 5 doesn't quite have all the features and the pic isn't quite as good, but you can buy one for less than 300. We've tested some decent Sony's too though - why the advice to avoid?
[Comment From George- ] I need to replace my sony trinitron and am looking for a 32 inch TV. Always been pleased with Sony but, being advised not to purchase these any more. Any suggestions please?

Which of these is most important to you when choosing a new TV? Price ( 11% ) Picture quality ( 72% ) Sound quality ( 0% ) Usability ( 6% ) Power consumption ( 0% ) Latest features ( 11% )
Dave Holes (Which?): Hi Valerie - the Freeview Humax PVR you have won't record Freeview high-definition (HD) programmes though there is a new one out that can do so - the Humax HDR Fox T2 - but you need to live in the HD coverage area - seewww.freeview.co.uk to do a postcode check. Freesat gives you access to high-definition programming but you need to put up a satellite dish to receive it - it does however have pretty much 100% national coverage so is an option if you can't access Freeview HD yet.
[Comment From Valerie Jennings ] Ihave a humax Freeview PVR. When I buy a new TV is it better to have a Freesat Pvr? What is the difference
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi Rod, If you pick up a TV from last year's range you can save yourself a few quid. The 32-inch D25 would fit the bill from a features point of view but we didn't rate the standard def picture too highly. it's quite stark and cold. The new DT30 range is just about to launch though and will come with a few extras (such as an app store later in the year). We should have results for that one in July and some internet TV results in May. None of the Panasonics do full web surfing though. for that you need to look to Samsung, LG and Sony in 2011.
[Comment From Rod Harrison ] I am a fan of Panasonic TVs and have a Panasonic Recorder/Blue Ray Player with FreeSat. I want to replace my TV with the latest 32" LED model and want to have full internet connectivity, DVLA capability with my home network and state of the art facilities. Which model do you suggest please?
What size is your home's main TV?
Less than 26-inch ( 11% ) 26-inch ( 6% ) 32-inch ( 33% ) 37-inch ( 22% ) 42-inch or larger ( 22% ) Another size (or not a flatscreen) ( 6% )
Dave Holes (Which?): Hi June - the best 19" model we've tested is the Panasonic Viera TX-L19C20 - it's about 200 in John Lewis but you can find it cheaper online.
[Comment From june ] hi Al,my husband and I are looking for a 19inch television for the bedroom,we were quite interested in a white coloured samsung,but blackk would be 2nd choice,it is mainly about price,can you please suggest a fairly good priced television for this purpose.

Ben Stevens (Which?): Hi Theresa, We have a round up of all the forthcoming Panasonic TVs that we're aware of here http://www.which.co.uk/technology/tv-and-dvd/guides/panasonic-viera-tvs/panasonic-vieratv-model-guide/ And as you'll see, there isn't a sub 30-inch model with Viera Connect (Panasonic's intenet TV feature). There's a 32-inch E30 model coming soon. Furthermore, I saw a 32-inch LG TV yesterday that's just launched, and that had LG's latest Smart TV service, which looked pretty good. It's also a 3D TV - if that's important to you.
[Comment From theresa rarer ] I understand that Panasonic are soon to release some smaller screen (under 30") internet TVs. Are there any such models available now, and are they a good idea?
Mike Briggs (Which?): Hi Greg, we'd normally say HD isn't worth bothering with if the screen is smaller than 26-inches. It's harder for the small screen to make the most out of the extra detail. However, it is a personal choice thing and we've tested Tvs as small as 19-inch for HD and rated the quality. the Panasonic TX-L19C20 really impressed our HD viewing panel.
[Comment From Greg ] I am thinking of getting a new TV for our bedroom as we are about to switch to digital TV in Scotland. At what size TV is it worth getting Freeview HD rather than Freeview? or is it a personal choice
Al Warman: If you're taking part for the first time, this is how it works: Type your name and question into the box on the screen below and press 'send'. It won't appear immediately but will join the queue, before being allocated to an expert.
Al Warman: If previous Live Events are anything to go by, this one will prove extremely popular, so can I please ask that you only send your question in once - this makes managing the list of questions at our end much easier!
Al Warman: I'll be feeding your questions to our team of experts and generally trying to keep things running smoothly.
Jack Turner: Hello, I'm Jack from the Technology team.looking forward to answering your questions today.
Dave Holes (Which?): Hello everybody - I'm Dave - one of the Which? experts on hand today. How can we help you?
Mike Briggs (Which?): HI everyone, hope we can help you out today.

Al Warman: Joining me today are a range of experts, including Mike Briggs, Jack Turner, Ben Stevens and Dave Holes.
Al Warman: Hello and thanks for joining us for this live event, where you get to put all your TV buying questions to the Which? experts.