The Hitachi 51F510 is an HD-ready rear-projection TV with a wide-format 51-inch screen, picture-out-of-picture (POP) capability, and high-quality performance and features. The relatively slim silver cabinet has a thin frame surrounding the screen, with a door below the screen hiding easy-access inputs and controls.

All non-1,080i signals are up-converted to 1,080p on this set, for a virtual high-definition picture with loads of detail. The addition of an HD receiver will add true high-definition content displayed at 1,080i, while progressive scan DVD can be displayed at 540p. A 4MB 3-D Y/C digital comb filter combines with edge enhancement, black enhancement, and digital color management to produce smooth action, realistic colors, and sharp edges regardless of the picture source. Movies are automatically adapted for TV viewing using 3:2 pulldown conversion. An automatic digital convergence system readjusts the picture using 117 points, with nine-point manual fine-tuning available as well.

The twin-tuner POP (split-screen) function works with high-definition and standard content, and HD images can be viewed in any of three aspect modes. Standard content offers a choice of six aspect modes for viewing. Film buffs will enjoy the special color temperature set-up to optimize the viewing of black and white content. Built-in stereo speakers produce a total of 24 watts of audio output, with BBE sound enhancement and simulated surround sound. One unusual feature on the 51F510 is separate video settings for day and night viewing; these can be switched manually or set to turn on automatically at a particular time of day.

Other convenience features include sleep and on timers, parental locks, and closed captions. The front panel contains audio/video/S-video inputs for the quick connection of a camcorder or video game console. The rear panel has a full range of input options, with four audio/video inputs, two S-video inputs, two wideband component video inputs, two RF inputs for an antenna and cable source, and an HDMI interface. An audio/video output and a fixed/variable audio output add to the flexibility of the 51F510. An RS-232C control interface makes it possible to network with other components to form an integrated system. The silver universal remote control is well laid out, with illuminated buttons and direct access to a DVD player, VCR, cable box, and satellite receiver.

Warranty
1 year parts and labor, 2 years picture tube