Samsung’s versatile, big-screen LT-P326W offers a stunning picture–crisp and clear from corner to corner, with 1,280 x 768 native pixel resolution. The 32-inch set is perfect for use with a DTV set-top box, high-definition satellite receiver, or progressive-scan DVD player, accepting standard-definition 480i inputs, enhanced-definition 480p signals, and full high-definition 720p and 1080i as well. An onboard digital comb filter separates the color signals to minimize dot crawl and blurred edges so you can enjoy sharp, focused images that look great regardless of their source.
The LT-P326W uses Samsung’s DNIe (Digital Natural Image engine) picture-enhancement circuitry, which improves contrast, detail, color, and video motion. Its impressive 600:1 contrast ratio makes it capable of rendering extremely deep blacks, while its high brightness (500 cd/m2) produces vivid images even in bright rooms. And, with its speedy 16-milisecond pixel-response time, the LT-P326W is nothing if not ready to handle the fastest-moving video sequences, from video games to action films. Horizontal and vertical viewing angles each extend up to 170 degrees, making sure everyone has the best seat in the room.
LCD screens offer a number of benefits over CRT monitors and televisions, including general ease of use, freedom from eye strain (no screen flickering or radiation emissions), quiet operation (no high-pitch “flyback” noise, an issue with CRT TVs), accurate image geometry (no curvature distortion or susceptibility to magnetic interference from, say, speakers), long screen life (with no risk of image burn-in), space savings, and light weight/easy positioning. (Perched atop its round swivel base, the set weighs in at barely more than 50 pounds.) LCDs also tend to be cheaper and, to some eyes, slightly more natural looking than their plasma flat-panel counterparts, which usually “spec” higher (higher brightness, higher contrast ratio).
The set connects to a personal computer through its RGB (15-pin D-Sub) input, letting you surf the Web, check e-mail, or play QuickTime movies right on your television. Use the split-screen/PIP option to view multiple sources simultaneously.
To connect the monitor to devices such as DTV set-top boxes, satellite receivers, DVD players, game consoles, or camcorders, use either of the set’s digital-video inputs–DVI (Digital Visual Interface) or HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface)–for a direct digital connection, or take advantage of its dual high-definition component-video inputs. Other inputs consist of 1 each composite- and S-video inputs, 1 RF input, and the above-mentioned PC input, each with its attendant audio jacks.
The DVI-HDTV interface (with HDCP copy protection) enables an all-digital rendering of video without the losses associated with an analog interface. DVI supports up to 24-bit digital RGB data for each pixel. Like DVI, HDMI is a lossless, uncompressed, digital audio/video interface to link the set with any compatible AV source. HDMI supports standard-definition (SD), enhanced definition (ED), or high-definition (HD) video, plus multi-channel digital audio–all using a single cable.
Choose one of several preset sound modes (standard, music, movie, speech, and custom) for broadcast through the built-in 10-watts-per-channel x 2 speaker system. SRS TruSurround technology simulates surround sound from the set’s 2 speakers, while the television’s MTS multichannel decoding separates audio signals for stereo reception and broadcasts a second audio program (SAP) when available for multilingual or other applications.
As with many high-quality TVs, the LT-P326W makes flexibility a top priority, giving you several preset picture and sound modes, including custom settings for each. The TV also provides color temperature adjustment for warm, cool, or neutral tones, along with a trilingual onscreen menu.
Price: $3299.99
(Please note prices are subject to change and the listed price is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of posting)