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- Great picture quality
- Lots of features
- Wii-like remote control
- THX certification
- Some picture-quality technical issues
- Wi-Fi requires optional dongle
- No 3D
- Reflective screen
Experts say the LG 50PK950 competes on an equal -- or better -- footing with premium sets from Samsung and Panasonic in all but one regard: it lacks 3D capability. The 50PK950 is packed with features, including some not found on other TVs. One is a second, Wii-like remote control that lets you take charge of your TV with hand gestures. Another is an optional media receiver (*Est. $350) that lets you cut all cables to the TV and beam everything wirelessly in full 1080p. Internet streaming is included, and there are lots of providers, but you'll need to spring for an optional dongle (*Est. $70) if you want to connect wirelessly.
Picture quality is great, led off by blacks that are competitive with the best other makers have to offer. Colors also look very good, though dyed-in-the-wool videophiles might spot some small imperfections. THX certification is a plus, but experts say that it's not always as accurate as some other THX-certified sets. The TV includes technology to improve black-level performance under bright lights, but the stylish design includes a screen that is more prone to glare. If you can't wait to get on the 3D bandwagon, the Samsung PN58C7000 (Discontinued), which is also available in a 50-inch version as the Samsung PN50C7000 (*Est. $1,600), is a good alternative. Picture quality, while very good, is perhaps a small step behind. Though not all of the LG 50PK950's extras are on board, you will find 3D and an even bigger roster of Internet content.
We found several reviews of the LG 50PK950. CNET's report is probably most helpful to the average buyer, however FlatpanelsHD.com weighs in with a long and detailed report that's sure to delight technically oriented videophiles. ConsumerReports.org doesn't test the LG 50PK950, but it does report on the bigger LG 60PK950 (*Est. $2,100). User reviews are still too limited to be very helpful.
| LG Infinia 50PZ750 50-Inch 1080p 600 Hz Active 3D THX Certified Plasma HDTV with Smart TV | |
(32 reviews) In Stock. |
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Our Sources
1. CNET
David Katzmaier gives the LG 50PK950 a good rating overall. He says that those that bypass the TV in favor of offerings from other makers are "overlooking a gem." Picture quality is great, led by deep black levels. Some color quibbles are mentioned, but Katzmaier says color accuracy is good overall.
Review: LG Infinia 50PK950, David Katzmaier, July 21, 2010
This highly technical review looks at the European version of the LG 50PK950, which differs from the U.S. version in only a few technical details. Black levels are very good -- holding their own against TVs in Panasonic's TC-PG20 series. Colors in the THX mode are called accurate and lifelike, but not perfect. Features and functionality are a plus. The LG 50PK950 earns the site's Highly Recommended award.
Review: LG PK950, Rasmus Larsen, March 22, 2010
3. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe
ConsumerReports.org does not test the 50-inch LG 50PK950 but does report on the 60-inch LG 60PK950, which should perform identically. Plasma TVs here are rated and ranked. Testing is done, but not extensively documented. Discussion is more extended than in the past, but it still falls way short of what you see from some other reviewers and is only available to paid subscribers.
Review: Plasma TVs, Editors of ConsumerReports.org
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