V Inc. Vizio VP42 Review

What the reviewers like:
Reviews indicate that the black levels and color rendition of the Vizio VP42 are good and that images are well detailed, especially considering the TV's low price tag. The Vizio VP42 also has good connectivity, with two HDMI inputs. This Vizio plasma TV includes a QAM-capable digital tuner so you can receive over-the-air digital signals and unscrambled cable programming without an external box. The basic feature set includes a versatile PIP/POP function.

What the reviewers don't like:
Although considered good, the Vizio VP42 doesn't have the best picture. Some reviews say edge enhancement is too severe. Others note that while color accuracy is generally good, greens tend to shift to blue (a common issue in plasma TVs). The Vizio VP42 sometimes has a hard time displaying fast-moving action with perfect detail. We also read some user complaints that the TV makes a slight buzzing sound. But overall, most experts say the Vizio is a good value.

V Inc. Vizio VP42 review highlights

The Vizio VP42 plasma has a rare combination of low price and above average performance, according to reports on the plasma TV. While reviews say the Vizio VP42 won't beat the best in a head-to-head image-quality competition, the black levels and color rendition are good considering the price. The Vizio VP42 is not overloaded with features, but it does offer all of the basics, including a versatile PIP/POP function. Although it's significantly more expensive, reviewers prefer the image quality, black levels and overall performance of the Pioneer Elite PRO-940HD (*est. $2,240) over that of the Vizio VP42.

Among the reviews we found covering the 42-inch Vizio VP42 plasma TV (which is available at warehouse stores such as Costco, as well as direct from the manufacturer), the best report is at PC Magazine. Editors there give each plasma TV a rating that can be easily compared to others they’ve reviewed, and they recognize the very best TVs with an Editors’ Choice award. The reports themselves are well balanced, with just enough technical data to inform but not overwhelm a typical reader. The report at CNet.com is also worthwhile. While not as detailed as the one at PC Magazine, CNet.com rates more plasma TVs, making it easier to see where the Vizio VP42 stands relative to other choices. The Vizio VP42 is also the subject of an official thread at AVSForum.com, with over a hundred posts from users asking questions about the plasma TV or posting opinions and mini-reviews.

Also see full report: Plasma TV

*In order of credibility (see our Ratings Criteria).

1. PC Magazine
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Vizio VP42 HDTV Review
Robert Heron
Feb. 16, 2007

At PC Magazine, plasma TVs are covered in single-product reviews and occasional roundups. All sets get an overall rating that can be used to compare TVs, and the best TVs get an Editors' Choice award. The Vizio VP42 is among the site's favorites, especially when its performance is put into perspective with its price. Reviewer Robert Heron gives the Vizio VP42 a balanced review.

2. CNet.com
Vizio VP42 - 42" plasma TV
David Katzmaier
Mar. 21, 2007

CNet.com reports on plasma TVs in well-detailed single-product reviews. Plasma TVs are tested and graded so readers can easily see where they rank compared to similar models. The Vizio VP50 does make the site's list of top plasma TVs, but it sits toward the bottom of the list. This detailed review focuses on performance, figuring in value as well.

3. AVSForum.com
Plasma Flat Panel Displays
Contributors to AVSForum.com

This discussion site dedicates a whole section to plasma TVs. While the Vizio VP42 does not get nearly as much discussion or as many threads as some other plasma TVs, this is a worthwhile visit for anyone seriously interested in this TV, even though it takes time to weed through the comments.

Also see full report: Plasma TV