The Panasonic Viera TX-P50V20B 1080P Full HD Plasma TV

The Panasonic TX-P50V20 represents its latest, 50 inch version of their popular Viera line of plasma televisions. immediately from visual inspection, one can see that the TXP50V20 is stylish and sleek. Many of Panasonics older televisions had bezels that were either bronze or black, but the TXP-50V20B features a dark, charcoal grey case that has a metallic finish. Opting for a sleeker design than some of its competitors, Panasonic has created a simple and elegantly designed television that places a priority on function.

Looking at the connection ports on the plasma television, there are slots for almost every kind of A/V connection that is commonly used today. Panasonic has equipped the TXP50V20B with four HDMI inputs (one side and three rear), an SD slot, a mini D-sub port, two side USB ports, an Ethernet connection, composite video connections, and a Mini D-sub port. Of particular note are the USB slots on the TXP50V20B. Like most televisions, the TXP50V20B allows users to connect a USB hard drive to the television to play back pictures, videos, and music files. The USB ports make it easy to connect a USB storage device to the television to record high definition programming from services like Freeview and Freesat. { Whilst this is convenient, the recorded media can only be replayed on a Panasonic TXP50V20. | This is an excellent feature, however, shows recorded using the USB slots can only be watched on a Panasonic TXP50V20B. | This convenient feature is only slightly marred by the fact that one can only replay the programs on a Panasonic TX-P50V20.

A wireless or wired connection can connect TXP50V20B owners to the internet by using the Ethernet slot. One advantage of connecting to the internet is being able to connect to Viera Cast, a service offered by Panasonic. For a monthly fee, owners of the TXP50V20 can use Skype and stream movies over the television.

When turning on the television, one of the first things that is noticeable is the poor sound quality of the device. When playing music, the bass is not clear and the upper registers can sound glassy. By connecting the television to a surround sound system or to supplemental speakers, owners can remedy the problem.

The visual quality of the TXP50V20 far surpasses the quality of the sound. The television offers wonderful black levels and contrast thanks to its 5,000,000:1 contrast ratio. Featuring a 600 Hz response time, the television offers smooth movement without any blurriness. Relying on its new NeoPDP technology, Panasonic was able to achieve bright, vibrant colours with the TXP50V20. One pleasant surprise is that the factory default settings require very little changing.

For shoppers who are not concerned with getting a 3D television, the TXP50V20B is an outstanding choice. Overall, the TXP50V20B is a solid performer, sure to please most people. The televisions best features are its outstanding contrast ratios, fast response times, HD tuners, Ethernet port, and vibrant colours. Whilst the sound quality of the Panasonic TXP50V20B is not as good as its visual quality, the television still remains a top choice when compared to other 50 inch plasma displays.