With its ultra-thin silver and black bezel, the JVC LT-47X788 is a super-sleek set. From the front, you'll see practically nothing but a bright, very clear and very sharp picture. The 788 series provides a wide 178 degree viewing angle, so there is a hardly a bad seat in the house. This set is a step up from the 688 series, and while a bit more expensive, might be worth it if you're looking for a set that looks almost as good off as it does while displaying HD content. And because the bezel is so thin, this 47-inch widescreen set actually is only about as wide as many budget-priced 42-inch models.

And while it looks good by itself, it can deliver an amazing picture, too. This 1080p set offers full HD resolution of 1920x1080, and it 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 picture with very lifelike colors and deep black levels.

This 47-inch model features four picture modes, offering quick adjustments for movies, games and TV, so you can get the best picture setting for the content as well as the light conditions in the room. This set's high brightness and contrast means you can use it during the day without having to get the room as dark as a cave, a feature that makes LCD a good choice for rooms with high ambient light. Additionally, this model lets you calibrate the settings by various video input, and with nine aspect ratio modes, you have accommodate various sources and screen formatting.

About the only negative of the thin bezel design is that it doesn't give much room for any side inputs, and this is a tad disappointing given this is a step up model from JVC. And for the price, we really expected a third HDMI input, especially given the number of devices that take advantage of this connector. There are two HD component video inputs, however, and three composite A/V inputs with a single S-Video. The set further features an analog stereo output as well as digital optical audio output, as well as a USB input for viewing digital photos. The JVC line includes some advanced viewing options of the photos, including the ability to zoom and rotate images, while also offering the ability to set up a slide show.

As with the other models in this year's line of LCD sets from JVC, the LT-47X788 includes a pair of 10-watt speakers. These are located just below the screen and fortunately don't detract from the thin and sleek design. And while they're excellently hidden, they deliver reasonable sound. Obviously they won't replace a true home theater multi-channel audio system, but they're adequate for morning viewing of news and other TV content. This model utilizes JVC Smart Sound, which helps maintain a constant volume during content changes, such as when there is a commercial break. The set offers JVC's Advanced Hyper Surround Sound, which simulates a multi-speaker set up, but again if you're going to get a 47-inch TV, a real sound system is almost a requirement.

With its thin design, advanced features and good price this is a great set for those that want the cinematic experience at home without mortgaging the house to get it.

Pros: Good value for the money, decent sound from the speakers, thin bezel design makes for a sleek set
Cons: A third HDMI input would be welcomed, no side inputs

Warranty
1 year, limited