The Hitachi 51F59 is a 51-inch CRT projection HDTV that manages to cut a few inches from the traditionally large CRT cabinet. The wide-format screen is trimmed in black and sits above a large gray base that contains a pair of stereo speakers, with control buttons and a set of composite video/S-video inputs easily reached in the area between the screen and the base. The internal digital tuner delivers full high-definition content without the need for an additional HD receiver. However, the 51F59 doesn't have a CableCARD slot or QAM tuner, so it is not digital cable-ready.

The wide-format, fine-pitch screen presents a clear 1,080i picture that stands up in most light conditions, and it has the deep, pure blacks common to the CRT design. A 3-D Y/C digital comb filter reduces or eliminates dot crawl and rainbow effects, and convergence can be adjusted automatically or manually. You have a choice of three HD picture modes, and there are six standard-definition modes to fit standard 4:3 images to the widescreen. The 51F59 offers split-screen and other PIP options, but the lack of a second tuner means you will need to supply an additional video source.

The stereo speakers create a respectable 24 total watts of audio output, and simulated surround sound is available. A center-channel input makes it possible to use the TV as the center speaker in a home theater system, and the 51F59 also has an optical digital and fixed/variable audio outputs. Convenience features include an adjustable sleep timer, parental V-chip controls and memory for the settings for each input. A timer can be activated to switch the 51F59 from day to night settings (and back again).

In addition to the audio inputs previously described, the 51F59 has a decent selection of video inputs, such as an RF input, five composite video inputs (including the one on the front panel), three S-video inputs (one on the front panel), two wideband component video inputs and one HDMI input for HD or other digital content. The universal remote control is a spacious silver model with curvy contours and a relatively uncluttered layout.

Among the big-screen HDTVs, the 51F59 is a traditional CRT projection choice that makes the transition to high-definition programming affordable.

Pros: CRT produces clear images and deep blacks, day and night settings, center-channel speaker input
Cons: No second tuner for PIP options, not digital cable-ready

Warranty
1 year parts and labor, 2 years picture tube, in-home service