LG Electronics LG MP-60PZ10

Looks impressive and the image quality doesn't disappoint.

Despite the falling cost of LCD manufacturing, higher yield, faster response times and higher resolutions, there's still one major advantage Plasma Display Panels (PDPs) have over their counterparts - size.

Normally a disadvantage, the cumbersome structure of the plasma panel itself isn't suitable for miniaturisation, particularly if resolution is key. This is why LCD is still the choice for desktop monitors until an emerging display type (OELD, LEP, ThinCRT) takes over. PDPs continue to thrive in the exhibition and information display markets.

However, while PDPs can't get much smaller, they can get bigger - the MP-60PZ10 is proof of that. With a diagonal screen size of 60in, it's not a particularly portable device, unless you compare it to the four CRTs required to create a video wall of the same size. In this case, a 72kg unit seems very light indeed. Not only that, it's only 10cm deep and can be easily mounted on a suitably sturdy wall or a steel stand.

Like the majority of PDPs, the LG isn't a high-resolution display for its size, although the use of cells with a smaller pitch (0.343 by 1.032mm) than previous panels means its screen resolution is increased to 1,280 by 720 pixels. This is more than enough for video or TV playback and will allow you to fit more onto a page without losing legibility.

As an exhibition display, the viewing angle is crucial, so the 160-degree horizontal and vertical viewing will stand it in good stead. The MP-60PZ10 is also quite bright, with a maximum level of 180cd/m2 (quoted by the manufacturer) along with a contrast ratio of 250:1.

The usual range of connection options, including VGA, composite and S-Video (but not DVI) are located in a recessed rear panel. As with any digital display driven from an analogue signal, clock and phase calibration is necessary for best results, although the automatic adjustment proved to be effective enough to avoid the need for manual intervention.

The transparent onscreen menu will be familiar to users of previous LG large-format displays and provides logical access to the plasma screen's video-processing functions. These include Picture-in-Picture (PiP), dual-image, aspect ratio selection and colour/contrast/brightness controls.

Image quality is very good. The inclusion of a scan converter filter that anti-aliases angled lines for a smoother image, and a brightness reduction circuit, help to reduce image persistence.

With its slimline silver chassis and massive screen area, the MP-60PZ10 certainly looks impressive and the image quality doesn't disappoint, but you've got to really need the extra 20 inches to justify the expense. If you just want the look, you might prefer the less expensive 42in MP-42PZ10 at £4,999 (ex. VAT).

Contact

LG Electronics: 264 Bath Road, Slough, Berkshire SL1 4DT
Tel 0870 607 5544, Fax 01753 516507
www.lge.com