JVC's LT-42X688 42-inch LCD HDTV is a lot of set for not a whole lot of money. While still a bit more than 42-inch rear-projection displays, this wall-mountable TV is worth the extra dollars if you're short on space and still want a step up to a bigger screen. Just a few years ago a flat-panel set that was 42-inches or above would have been plasma, but in the last year LCD has made headway in the space, while delivering 1080p full HD resolution of 1920x1080.

This model features JVC's fifth generation D.I.S.T. (Digital Image Scaling Technology), along with the latest JVC Genessa chip, which is a 32-bit CPU processor that combines all image processing, noise reduction and color management technologies into a single chip for better performance. The result is a crisp and clear picture, which does an excellent job at displaying black levels. The set's bright display is good for rooms where you can't always control the light conditions, and where other sets would be washed out with excessive ambient light. The LT-42X688 features a glass panel that doesn't reflect a lot of light either, so you don't have to go into full movie mode with every lamp dimmed down or worry about drawing the blinds to see the picture.

We also liked that this 42-inch set features four picture modes, so you can adjust for movies, games or TV, and this is ideal if you want to watch Tiger Woods on the fairway at noon, or tune in to a movie at night. A simple press of the button will let you adjust to match the light conditions. Additionally, you can calibrate and adjust the settings to meet your needs and these are saved by the various inputs. This model also offers nine aspect ratio modes, so you can zoom in to accommodate a variety of video sources and video formatting.

We were disappointed that this set doesn't feature any side inputs, and there are only two HDMI inputs (located in the rear). Considering the number of devices that use this input, a third (even located in the back) would have been ideal. Fortunately, there are also two HD component video inputs, and three composite A/V inputs with a single S-Video. The set also has analog stereo output as well as digital optical audio output. Additionally, we liked the USB input for the viewing of digital photos. This model even includes some advanced viewing options of the photos, including the ability to zoom and rotate images, while also offering the ability to set a slide show.

The set features twin 10-watt speakers, and these can handle TV and movie adequately enough thanks to JVC's Advanced Hyper Surround Sound, which simulates a multi-speaker set up. Additionally, the LT-42X688 utilizes JVC Smart Sound, which helps maintain a constant volume during content changes, such as when there is a commercial break. It is nice to have build-in speakers, but a true multi-channel audio system is really needed to get the most of this 42-inch LCD HDTV.

Pros: Good value for the money, decent sound from the speakers
Cons: A third HDMI input would be welcomed, no side inputs

Warranty
1 year, limited