The Mitsubishi 734 models are presented in platinum black with brushed black accent in a compact casing that will look chic in most rooms. The 57-inch WD-57734 is 13.9-inches deep (without foot), and while not as thin as plasma or LCD flat panel sets, won't seem like a behemoth either. At 62.3 pounds, the set is also a lightweight compared to DLPs from only a couple of years ago.

As with other Mitsubishi sets, the WD-57734 features the x.v.Color support, but this is still something that many users won't actually be able to see in action, as there are virtually no sources yet that take advantage of the technology. It is a good addition to have, and it doesn't detract from the set at all. Regardless, it shouldn't make or break your decision when considering this set.

More important is the fact that this 1080p Mitsubishi DLP set utilizes the company's 6-color light engine technology, which includes Color 4D video noise reduction and four pre-set video modes to ensure that you'll see a great picture straight out of the box. The 734 models feature Dark Detailer for deep blacks and color rich dark scene detail--so things don't get washed away in shadows, even when you are watching in a room with ambient light. This series also boast PerfecTint and SharpEdge technologies to further provide an image that is free of noise, and is very clear with crisp colors. A/V adjustments are memorized by input, as are the color temperature control, so you won't have to worry about needing to continuing tweak the set when you change video sources. There are picture form modes for both 4:3 and 16:9 sources, while concerns such as static image retention or other ghosting issues won't affect this set.

The WD-57734 has about as many connections as you can expect with a DLP set today and we found this to be quite impressive. This includes three rear HDMI 1.3 inputs and one in front, two rear component inputs with stereo connections along with an additional front component video input. The set includes rear dual S-Video/composite video and stereo inputs, as well as an analog stereo audio output. Plus Mitsubishi has included a Dolby Digital/PCM coaxial audio output, which makes connecting multiple HD components to a home entertainment system even easier. In addition to showing off movies, you can use this set for your personal slide show via the front USB input that is provided for use with up to 5 megapixel photos.

For movies and TV the built-in twin speakers, which are located at the bottom of the casing so as not to detract from the sleek frame of the set, provides a reasonably powerful 10 watts of power each. We also liked the partially illuminated multibrand remote control, which is easy to program and it supports up to five devices, including DVD players and cable set top boxes, while NetCommand will give you easy control over your home theater.

As a step up from the 733 series, the WD-57734 adds a few features that serious movie buffs will no doubt appreciate. The added cost is small enough that this upgrade might be worth every penny.


Pros: Front USB input, three rear HDMI inputs, six-color light engine
Cons: x.v.Color mostly hype at this stage

Warranty
1-year limited