Originally priced at $3,500, JVC has dropped the LT-40FN97's MSRP by $1,000 since its release, and you should be able to find this 40-inch set for even less than that. This big LCD model is digital cable-ready with a CableCARD slot and QAM tuner, and it is also able to display PC content. We have a few nits to pick, but the LT-40FN97 is a capable flat-panel HDTV.

The wide-format LT-40FN97 has a true 1,920X1,080-pixel display, and JVC's Digital Image Scaling Technology (DIST) presents all incoming signals at 1,080p. A host of other functions contribute to the picture quality, including a five-point color management system, digital noise reduction and a 3-D Y/C digital comb filter. The result is a highly detailed picture that is bright enough for most lighting conditions. The LT-40FN97 suffers somewhat when exposed to significant ambient light, but this shouldn't be a problem in a properly configured viewing room.

With the LT-40FN97's PC input, you can surf the internet or play games in a full-screen or split-screen format. Unfortunately, this model has a single-tuner design, so it requires a second video source to enable PIP functionality. Other PIP options include a 12-window index and the ability to freeze an image into an inset window.

The internal audio system delivers a rather underwhelming 10 watts of output per channel, although the speakers produce a clear if lackluster soundstage. For a boost when watching digital content, there is an optical digital output to send audio signals to a home theater receiver. Simulated surround sound, voice enhancement and a bass boost can be used to shape the LT-40FN97's sound to your preferences, and a built-in equalizer lets you do some fine-tuning.

Other convenience features include five video presets, eight picture formats, on/off and sleep timers, automatic shut-off after 10 minutes without a signal and parental controls to limit access to adult content. The universal remote control has illuminating buttons that are a welcome sight in a darkened room.

You will no doubt want to connect a host of components to the LT-40FN97, and the jack pack is up to the task. It includes an RF input, three composite video inputs, two S-video inputs, two component video inputs, two HDMI digital-to-digital inputs, two IEEE 1394 ports, the PC input, a fixed audio/video output, the optical digital audio output, the CableCARD slot and a headphone mini-jack.

This set offers a high-performance 1,080p picture at a very competitive price. While it has its shortcomings, the JVC LT-40FN97 would make a smart LCD HDTV purchase.

Pros:  Great 1,080p picture, digital cable-ready, competitive price
Cons:  Underpowered audio, single-tuner design

Warranty
1 year parts and labor