The LT-46FH97 is JVC's current (March 2007) top-of-the-line LCD HDTV, and it boasts 1,080p resolution and a long feature list. In addition, a recent MSRP cut makes this LCD set a bit more reasonable in the price department.

This 46-inch flat-panel HDTV comes with internal ATSC and QAM tuners, as well as a CableCARD slot, so you will not need an HD receiver or cable box. A pedestal stand is included, and it detaches for mounting the monitor on the wall with separately available hardware. Stereo speakers are located below the screen, which reduces the overall footprint.

With a native resolution of 1,920X1,080, the LT-46FH97 can display every pixel of 1,080i HD broadcasts. In addition, JVC's Digital Image Scaling Technology (DIST) upscales all incoming signals to 1,080p, so even standard-definition programming looks incredibly sharp. LCD TVs often struggle producing deep blacks, and the LT-46FH97 is no exception, although the black levels are better than on some of the large LCD sets we've seen. With the LT-46FH97's Natural Cinema mode, 3:2 pulldown conversion compensates for the uneven motion often present in movies adapted for video.
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Five video presets let you quickly adjust when viewing movies, sports or other types of shows, and the LT-46FH97 has three picture formats for HD programming and four for standard-definition content. The 20-watt audio system does little to distinguish the LT-46FH97 from other flat-panel sets of this size, and it includes the standard automatic volume leveling and simulated surround sound.

The LT-46FH97's convenience features start with multiple PIP and POP modes, including a 12-window index, but you will need a second video source to enable these functions. The universal remote control fully illuminates for use in the dark, and it sports high-speed channel changing for some serious surfing action. There is also a favorite channel memory, a front-panel lock to prevent little hands from messing with the settings, input and channel labeling, a full-screen freeze and an automatic clock set.

The connection selection is another of the LT-46FH97's strong points. In addition to a pair each of HDMI inputs and IEEE 1394 connections, this LCD HDTV has three composite video inputs, two S-video inputs, two component video inputs, a PC input for surfing and gaming on the big screen, a composite video output and an optical digital audio output. There is also an RS-232C control jack for connecting the LT-46FH97 to a home theater network.

With its long feature list, sharp picture and attractive cabinet, the JVC LT-46FH97 makes a strong showing among 46-inch LCD HDTVs.


Pros: Sharp 1,080p picture, numerous convenience features, good connectivity
Cons: Lackluster audio, only average black levels

Warranty
1 year parts and labor