Hitachi already has a proud heritage in 'domesticating'
plasma, particularly proven by its launch of the UK's first proper 32in plasma
TV. But now that other manufacturers have got in on the smaller-plasma act,
does Hitachi's second-generation of 'micro machine' maintain its cutting
edge?
Description
This 32in Hitachi may be small, but it's also perfectly
formed. The frame is exceptionally thin, a futuristic touch that combines
neatly with a high-gloss finish and adorable little rotating tabletop stand,
should the wall-mounting option not suit.
The screen ships with an external AV switching/tuner box,
which is a slimmer and, with its reflective fascia, more attractive unit than
its predecessors.
Connections
Hitachi has really pulled out all the stops here.
Particularly gratifying is a set of component video inputs, which are backed up
by standard video options including three Scarts (two RGB), a VGA input, and
even a selection of video outputs for monitoring purposes. What's more, you can
use the screen's speakers as the centre channel in a full surround system,
thanks to a centre-channel line input, or alternatively deliver a bass signal
to an external active subwoofer via a dedicated line out.
Distinguishing features
Hitachi is particularly proud of Alternate Lighting of
Surfaces (ALIS), a technology that increases the panel's lifespan in addition
to offering a sharper, brighter image by lighting all the lines in the display
simultaneously, rather than in two sweeps. Meanwhile, a new screen filter is
claims to improve black level response, too. And finally there are a couple of
anti-screen burn measures, topped off by video-friendly picture adjustments
galore.
Operation
One or two slips into jargon aside, the PD3000's onscreen
menus are pitched squarely at a mainstream audience that is accustomed to
ordinary TV menus. And the remote control is attractive, ensuring that most of
the important buttons fall comfortably to hand.
Picture
Hitachi has come on in leaps and bounds with its new panel
design. The biggest improvement is the contrast range and black level
performance, both of which are now little short of exemplary.
The level of fine detail on show is also breathtaking,
giving images extra depth and realism, and achieving arguably the most CRT-like
pictures I've ever seen from plasma technology.
Colours look outstandingly vivid without losing their
naturalness or escaping their edges, while unwanted screen noise is
impressively controlled. Sure, there might be occasional traces of
colour-banding and very rare instances of dot crawl over deep blacks. But
that's just being ultra-picky about some of the the finest pictures ever seen
on a plasma screen.
Sound
Hitachi's screens use a 1-bit digital amp, and this seems to
work wonders, giving an ultra-clear, sparklingly detailed, wide, deep and
bass-laden soundstage via the potent speakers. Harshness may set in at higher
volumes, but your ears or foundations will probably have given up the ghost
long before then anyway!
Conclusion
The PD3000 is an all-round star. So much so, that it would
have been a tantalising proposition at any price, but at its current price
point of just £3,000 it becomes nigh-on irresistible. |
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LAB RESULTS
Colour: Minimal bleed; no tizzing; slight softness;
perfect convergence excellent
Geometry: Perfect
Frequency response: Noiseless detail to 5.8MHz
excellent |
|
FEATURES
Tuner/AV box: Yes/yes
Audio output: 2 x 12W
Scarts: Three (two RGB)
Standard component video inputs: Yes
Soundstage widener: Not really
Picture in Picture: Only in PC mode
Resolution: 1,024 x 852
Anti-screenburn measures: Screen wipe, whitewash
Dimensions: 976(w) x 503(h) x 95(d)mm
Weight: 28.7kg |
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08457 581 455
