Last year's technology often looks good this year, because it is more affordable than the cutting edge. Had this been the case with Hitachi's 37-inch LCD set, it would be turning heads. But the Hitachi 37HLX99 is a tad expensive--That said, if you can find it below the suggested retail, it might be worth considering.

This model displays 768p with a maximum resolution of 1,366x768. It is 1080i and 720p compatible, so it can easily handle any over-the-air or cable HD content, and delivers a stunning picture at that. The set is also compatible with 1080p content from HD-DVD or Blu-ray discs, but will be downscaled accordingly. This is why the set isn't quite worth the suggested price, especially as 1080p LCD sets are so common today.

But if you're holding off on true HD resolution for now, or using this set for a den, bedroom or other secondary setting where you're not watching the latest movies on Blu-ray/HD-DVD or playing PlayStation 3, then you can more than easily make due... if the price is right, of course. The Hitachi 37HLX99 offers 120Hz response time and has a wide viewing angle so there is always a good seat in any house with this set. This model features PictureMaster HD III video processing and black frame bias so, you'll get very lifelike colors with reasonable black levels. The adjustable color decoder helps adjust flesh tones to match the color temperature, and there are multiple settings for aspect ratios, including four for HD and six for standard definition content.

The set had a couple of nifty features we liked, including a power swivel tabletop so you can turn the set without even having to get out of your chair. The remote is fully illuminated as well, and this comes in handy with the room light down. Additionally, the IR pass through was a good feature for taking command of devices such as a DVD player, cable box and VCR. With the IR pass through you don't need a true line of sight with those devices to use the set's universal remote.

This model also utilizes an anti-reflective screen, which Hitachi stresses further helped absorb ambient room light. Since reflections aren't as much of a problem with LCD as with plasma or rear-projection sets this is a bit of overkill. What we didn't like is that the screen almost needs you to increase the backlighting to compensate a bit. This is a minor complaint, but a noticeable problem.

We were very impressed with the A/V inputs that Hitachi provided with the 37HLX99. There are a total of three HDMI inputs as well as three component inputs, which includes a side HMDI and side component input. This is a very nice addition to have, even on a 37-inch set. There are two sets of S-Video inputs, along with a CableCARD slot, four sets of composite and even a coaxial cable input in the rear. Also located in the rear of the set is a single digital optical audio output, as well as an analog stereo RCA output.

While a surround sound system isn't always necessary with smaller TVs, the Hitachi 37HLX99 can be used with such a system very easily. The 20-watt stereo speaker system, which also provides reasonable simulated surround sound and bass boost, can be used as the center speaker in a multi-channel setup.

If you can forego the need for a true 1080p set, this 37-inch 768p model will certainly work well. It is a tad on the expensive side, but the prices on sets fall quickly, so this is a model to watch and grab it when it becomes a bit more affordable.

Pros: Two year warranty, side HDMI and component inputs
Cons: 768p maximum resolution, price a little high

Warranty
2 years, limited