Mitsubishi's 40-inch LT-40133 LCD HDTV is a set that could make the large flat panel dream a reality. This wall-mountable 40-inch set's size is one you love or you hate. This LT-40133 offers a step up in size from the traditional 32-inch and 37-inch models offered by the competitors, but is still small enough that it won't overwhelm smaller living rooms or dens. But for the price, there are still plenty of 42-inch sets on the market, making this model one for a very selective consumer.

The picture from the LT-40133 is excellent, thanks to the Full Spectrum Color, Tru1080p processing and Color 4D video noise reduction. This set's A/V adjustments are memorized by input, so you can adjust to the desired levels and not have to worry about them again. For quick adjustments, there are multiple video modes to ensure you get good results straight out of the box.

This 1080p LCD HDTV offers a high contrast picture with the new x.v.Color support. There have finally been a few devices, including a new Sony camcorder and the latest generations of Blu-ray player, to take advantage of this advanced feature. Unless you plan on using one of these compatible devices, though, the x.v.Color remains more hype than a practical feature at this point. We think this is a great feature to have in the future, but at this point it adds little to the normal viewing experience.

More impressive with Mitsubishi's LCD line this year is the Easy Connect functionality that makes getting connected a snap. This set is about as close to plug-and-play as it gets, and for the more experienced videophile, this set has connections to cover virtually everything in your A/V arsenal. These include three rear HDMI 1.3 inputs and two rear component video inputs with stereo audio connections, as well as a rear A/V input with S-Video.

What we really liked was the additional side component input, because with so many video options today you can never have enough inputs. A side USB input is also provided with the LT-40133, which can be used for the display of digital photos (up to 5 megapixels). This set also includes a Dolby Digital/PCM coaxial audio output, which again is a nice feature to have if you are using a number of devices with digital audio. This will ensure that you don't have to upgrade the audio receiver to accommodate everything. The partially illuminated universal remote control is easy to program and can be used to take command of up to five devices.

The thin frame design (measuring just about an inch) makes for a sleek profile, especially with the twin internal speakers situated just below the screen. From the front of this 40-inch TV you'll just see a bright and clear picture and very little of the set. Those twin speakers do an adequate job for TV and movies, making this a 40-inch set that would be good in a den, bedroom or other space where a larger TV would be too overwhelming.

Pros: Three rear HDMI inputs, high contrast picture, side USB input
Cons: 40-inch design could be an awkward size, given that 37-inches and 42-inches are the standard

Warranty
1 year, limited