The 55-inch 55HDX99 plasma HDTV is a member of Hitachi's Directors' Series, and with good cause. While it doesn't have the 1,080p resolution found on some new flat-panel sets, the 55HDX99 nevertheless produces an exceptional picture to go with its lengthy feature list. However, this model is somewhat pricey, and since it lacks a pedestal stand, you may need to factor the price of an optional stand into your overall cost.

The 55HDX99's appearance is an exercise in minimalism, with control buttons and easy-access inputs located on the sides of the cabinet to avoid marring the lovely matte black finish. Speakers flank the screen, producing a satisfying stereo separation. As we mentioned, a stand is not included, but Hitachi offers an optional powered stand that lets you swivel the 55HDX99 with your remote control. That takes convenience (or laziness?) to a whole new level.

All incoming signal formats are displayed at 768p on the 55HDX99's screen, which has a native resolution of 1,366X768. Hitachi employs a host of image-enhancement features, including an antireflective shield that reduces glare and improves contrast and color presentation, 16-bit digital color management, four-step black level enhancement and custom color temperature settings.

Each speaker has a three-way design, and with 18 watts per channel, the audio performance keeps pace with the excellent video. There are the usual options like automatic volume leveling and simulated surround sound, plus bass-tone expansion and the ability to use the 55HDX99 as the center channel in a home theater speaker system.

The extensive list of convenience features starts with the ability to program night and day audio/video settings for each input, and a timer automatically switches the settings from one to the other. To prevent damage to the 55HDX99's screen, there are multiple screen savers and other burn-in prevention functions. A number of PIP and split-screen options are available, but with its single-tuner design, the 55HDX99 requires a second video source to enable them. The large universal remote control is fully illuminated, and it is supplemented by a small secondary remote that handles basic TV functions.

With its broad connection selection, the 55HDX99 is ready to take its place as the centerpiece of a high-end home theater system. There is an HDMI input on the side panel, as well as a component video input and a USB input for connecting a digital camera and viewing your pictures on the big screen. The rear panel adds a CableCARD slot for digital cable readiness, two more HDMI inputs, an IEEE 1394 jack, an RF input and an optical digital audio output. Two IR remote passthrough connections let you control other home theater components via the 55HDX99, and an RS-232C interface allows you to integrate this plasma set with a full home theater network.

At 2 years, the warranty is more generous than most. The Hitachi 55HDX99 combines superior video and audio with a long feature list to create an impressive plasma HDTV.


Pros: Great picture and sound, extra mini-remote, USB input for photos, 2-year warranty
Cons: Expensive, single-tuner PIP, no stand included

Warranty
2 years parts and labor