Panasonic TX-P42X20B Review: 42 Inch Plasma HD Ready Television



A Plasma TV is often defined as a high-definition television set, which provides sharper images and more vibrant colours. Most Plasma Television sets are designed with a 16:9 ratio for wide screen movie format, as compared to conventional television sets that have a box-like 4:3 ratio. Here's a review of the unique features of the Panasonic TX-P42X20B but first a little information behind the plasma technology.

How Plasma TV's Operate

Plasma television sets feature individual pixels, which are made from three tiny containers of inert gases like xenon or neon., however there are hundreds of thousands of these small tubes on the conventional Plasma TV screen. Plasma often glows once it gets exposed to an electronic current between two electrodes. A CPU, or a central processing unit, receives signals from a cable or broadcast antenna , where it reassembles the entire picture at a rate of a hundreds of times per second.

Plasma TV's Have A Complex Structure

Plasma is a scientific term which refers to gases such as xenon and neon, and the science behind the development of the Plasma TV is quite complex. Because televisions in general often rely on thousands of pixels, or small picture elements, a colour TV set often bundles three separate colours, usually red, green and blue. And once the level of each colour is controlled, the other colours of the spectrum are produced in each pixel. This process remains the standard in any type of TV set, whether cathode ray or plasma.

Advantages of the Panasonic TX-P42X20B

The Panasonic TX-P42X20B is a 42-inch mid-size Plasma TV, which offers the trademark black shiny frame and textured cabinet feel. It primarily offers a tough, aesthetic but modern and functional look and feel, which often goes in line with Panasonic's long history of manufacturing similar-looking television sets.

Enhanced Picture and Image Quality

Despite its otherwise familiar external features, it offers a host of picture and image upgrades. For those who are tired of looking at more greys and blacks, this television set should offer a more refreshing sight. It has an unorthodox 1024 x 768 screen, which provides steady but powerful colour balance, and also imparts an accuracy that was only previously matched by high-end Plasma television sets.

High-Quality Sound and Audio Levels

The Panasonic TX-P42X20B's sound and audio quality may seem normal when compared to other high-end Plasma TV sets. However, compared to other flat-screen TV's, it provides above-average sound and audio quality, which is truly exceptional for its affordable price range. However, in order to achieve enhanced sound performance, you may wish to purchase a separate, compatible sound system.

Notable Drawbacks

The main drawback with other Plasma television sets is that these are often vulnerable to damage, especially whenever a hard object strikes or pierces the screen. Replacing those lost elements may sometimes be costly, and will require TV owners to purchase insurance and extended warranties. Most Plasma TV sets also have limited shelf lives, and while it may take a few years before you see noticeable changes in picture quality, the changes slowly come to visibility once the gas inside the tube starts to flicker.

However, if you're running on a tight budget, and you're looking for a Plasma television set that offers exceptional features, then the Panasonic TXP42X20 can be the right option for you. This medium-priced Plasma TV set is a wonderful option for those who are looking for the best Plasma TV options available on the market today.