The Hitachi P42H401 is the smaller model in Hitachi's H401 series of plasma HDTVs. While this series lacks some of the convenience features of the higher-end T501 line, such as PIP and a functional memory card slot, the 42-inch P42H401 offers seamless picture quality at an affordable price.

The P42H401's PictureMaster IV video processor, 16-bit clarity and native resolution of 1,024x1,080 make for a crisp 1,080i picture with great contrast and accurate, vibrant colors. Black levels are good, although as you would expect for a plasma display in this price range, they aren't as deep as we have seen on some top-shelf models. An MPEG noise reduction system does a good job cleaning up picture interference that can sometimes appear in dark areas of a scene.

With its clean black bezel and titanium-gray trim, the P42H401 certainly looks a step up from budget plasma displays. Stereo speakers are discreetly located below the screen, but while the 20-watt output is adequate, it lacks the punch that this screen deserves. For this reason, we'd highly recommend connecting the P42H401 to a home theater receiver and surround sound speaker system. Hitachi has replaced the previous swivel base with a fixed tabletop stand that adds about 2-1/2 inches to the overall height of the monitor and nearly 11 inches to the depth. A bracket is available as an optional accessory for mounting the P42H401 to the wall.

The included remote control can be easily programmed to operate other components, although it lacks backlighting and requires an accurate aim. Response times when changing channels with the remote are generally slower than we would like.

The P42H401 has an impressive collection of connectivity options. There are three 1,080p-compatible HDMI inputs, with two on the rear panel and one hidden under the front panel. This plasma HDTV also sports two wideband component video inputs, four composite video inputs, an S-video input, an optical digital audio output, an RF input and a RS232 control port. There's a memory card slot on the P42H401, but it is for service upgrades only.

To give you plenty of picture flexibility, the P42H401 offers three picture settings for each input, so you can independently adjust the settings for your DVD player, DVR and other components. There are also three picture memories per input, so the image can be customized to automatically adjust to the level of lighting your room.

With a full 1,080i high-definition display, digital cable-readiness and excellent connectivity options, the Hitachi P42H401 is a superior 42-inch plasma HDTV at a relatively inexpensive price.


Pros: Full 1,080i display, three 1,080p-compatible HDMI inputs, solid picture quality
Cons: Weak audio performance, no PIP, memory card slot only for software upgrades, remote can be frustrating to use, compatible with but can't display 1,080p content

Warranty
1 year, parts and labor; in-home service