Panasonic has a fierce reputation when it comes to consistently delivering the HDTV goods, but is its 32in TX-32LMD70 LCD TV likely to blot that copybook? Hitting the shelves for a modest £700, and with a stripped-down feature count compared with some same-sized TVs in the manufacturer’s stable, it’ll be interesting to see if its picture performance suffers.
The most noticeable omission from the TX-32LMD70’s feature set is 100Hz processing. We’ve seen this feature work its magic with fast motion footage Panasonic’s TX-32LXD700 and were suitably impressed. Removing 100Hz’s doubled scanning rate should lead to more loss of resolution over moving objects.
Still, despite 100Hz’s absence, the TX-32LMD70 is equipped with the picture-enhancing prowess of Panasonic’s V-Real 2 processing engine. Amongst other things, V-Real 2 should give you compatibility with native Full HD sources, and upscaling of standard-definition material up to 1080p.
It could be argued that these tweaks may be lost on a 32in HD Ready screen (the TX-32LMD70 sports a native resolution of just 1366 x 768), as it’s just not big enough to reap the benefits of Full HD, but at least you’re not paying through the nose for the privilege, as the £700 price tag bears out.
The promising claimed contrast ratio of 7000:1 should auger well for black level performance. This is achieved in part with a little help from V-Real 2’s dynamic backlight that reduces in brightness when dark shots are detected.
Also worthy of note are noise reduction routines; a colour management facility that can optimise tones automatically; Viera Link capabilities (allowing control of other Panasonic HDMI-connected AV kit from the TV’s remote control); and a built-in digital tuner.
In terms of connections, two HDMI inputs are provided for connection of HD-friendly kit, as well as a supporting cast of component video input, PC input, and two RGB Scarts, amongst others.
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Trooping the colour
In operation, the TX-32LMD70 is simple to use: the remote control is intuitive, onscreen menus logical, and you’re up and running with your movie of choice in no time. In this case it’s Starship Troopers on Blu-ray disc.
Sadly, this frenetic sci-fi epic is a bit of a challenge for the TX-32LMD70. The myriad fast-moving aliens don’t look as detailed as we’ve seen elsewhere and there’s some unwelcome judder, too. The amount of resolution loss isn’t disastrous – pictures are incredibly watchable – and we’re pleased to report that the TX-32LMD70 gets a gold star in pretty much every other category.
Colours are bright and rich with nicely natural tones; black levels are solid, with only minor greying over; background detailing is impressive; and pictures are pin-sharp and highly detailed, making for a convincing hi-def experience. The TV also puts in a likeable performance with standard-definition material.
The price is right
Even without 100Hz processing, there’s no denying that the TX-32LMD70 is a real bargain. Hi-def pictures exceed the expectations of the £700 entry fee, audio is also strong, and less has been chopped from the feature roster than we expected. The TX-32LMD70 should be near the top of your audition list if you’re in the market for a 32in LCD TV.
For
* Crisp, colourful and dynamic pictures
* Attention-grabbing price
Against
* No 100Hz processing
* Some problems with motion
Verdict
This 32in LCD delivers great HD pictures for relatively little money
Features
* 80cm V Wide IPS HD LCD Panel
* Ultra Wide 178 Degree Viewing Angle (Horizontally).
* Resolution 1366 x 768
* V-real 2 Processor
* Digital Processing Chip set 1080p
* Digital Re-mastering Processor 1080p
* V-real 2 Driver
* Intelligent Scene Controller (7000:1) Contrast
* Advanced 3D Colour management
* Sub-Pixel controller
* Integrated Digital Terrestrial Tuner
* VIERA Link for Easy Operation
Specifications
32” Panasonic TX-32LMD70 LCD TV HD Ready Freeview
Diagonal Size 32" LCD TV
Colour Black
Viewing Angle 178
Resolution 1366 x 768
Sound Output (RMS) W: 20
Interface 2 x HDMI
Image Aspect Ratio 16:9
Image Contrast Ratio 7000:1
Brightness 500 cd/m2
Tuner Digital TV Tuner
Features Remote control, Parental Control, Freeview
Dimensions 116 x 473 x 657 mm
Weight 12 kg
