The HD-56G787 is a 56-inch television that uses JVC's HD-ILA rear-projection technology to display widescreen DVD movies and high-definition programming. This relatively slender black monitor has stereo speakers located below the screen, and it comes with a small pedestal stand. With HD-ILA, a variation of LCoS, there is no need to worry about convergence issues or image burn-in.

The three-chip system produces a clear picture, although black areas of the screen are not quite as dark as we would have hoped. All content is up-converted to the HD-56G787's native resolution of 1,280X720 (progressive), and movies are adapted for video viewing using 3:2 pulldown conversion. A 3-D Y/C digital comb filter eliminates dot crawl and rainbow effects, and video noise is virtually nonexistent. This HDTV has built-in ATSC/QAM and NTSC tuners, so you can display HD and standard signals without an additional receiver. Five video presets are provided for quick adjustments when changing from movies to games, action sequences or standard content.

The HD-56G787's audio system features a pair of speakers that can be configured to create a simulated surround sound effect. Bass tones are especially rich due to JVC's digital audio signal processing system. Other convenience features include a choice of four picture formats for viewing different types of programming on the wide screen, a front-panel lock, parental V-chip controls, input labeling and a multifunctional on/off timer.

The inputs are more than adequate for connecting a wide range of components. The HD-56G787 includes an RF input, four composite video inputs (one on the front panel), two S-video inputs, two HD component video inputs, two HDMI inputs and two IEEE 1394 connectors. The fully illuminated universal remote control is a well designed addition to this HDTV, with a channel return button to move quickly between two programs.

Thanks to the HD-ILA technology, the HD-56G787 weighs only 92 pounds and has a depth of less than 18 inches. All in all, the JVC HD-56G787 is a competent if somewhat expensive big-screen HDTV.

Pros: Sharp picture, good connection selection, relatively compact cabinet
Cons: Disappointing black levels, pricey

Warranty
1 year parts and labor