What is in a name? In the case of high definition televisions usually a lot of numbers and letters, but the numbers typically give a clue to the size. This is a little misleading with the Olevia 565H LCoS rear projection HDTV. This is because it isn't a mere 56-inch set, but rather a larger 65-inch display. The set is part of the 5 Series from the company, which is solidly in their middle ground between their 3 series and 7 series. None of Olevia sets should be considered low-end either, but more importantly the 565H is their top of the line LCoS set, but then again it is also their only LCoS set. While much of Olevia's product line is built around flat panel LCD, this rear project set features some of the same processing technology to deliver a very fine picture.

And while the 565H might not be wall mountable, or exactly thin, it will again provide that ultra large 65-inch screen, which can transform a room into a theater! The set while large carries itself with dignity, with a smooth black casing. The screen sits about the bottom/horizontally mounted speakers that feature D2 Audio surround sound audio processing.

The 565H has a very bright, vibrant and crisp picture, especially for a TV with a screen of this size. It features a three-chip LCoS processor with native 1080p resolution, and DNX video processing by PixelWorks to deliver very good picture quality with lifelike colors. There are multiple aspect ratio modes that can be displayed on the set, to take advantage of letterbox and window-boxed content from cable and other video sources, while picture-in-picture and split screen can even let you check on multiple sources at the same time.

This set is designed to handle input from a variety of sources, but on the downside there's only a single HDMI (w/HDCP) input. There is also an additional DVI input, but a single HDMI input means this set comes up a little short, especially as devices such as Blu-ray and HD-DVD do take advantage of this connection (and may even require it with future product generations). Fortunately there are dual component video and three composite inputs as well, plus an RGB 15-pin D-Sub PC VGA input, and all of these are accompanied by stereo RCA audio inputs. The 565H also features an optical audio output, allowing the TV to serve as a pass through for digital audio, as well as stereo analog RCA outputs. For a set of this size we were also surprised to find a stereo headphone mini-jack output, but it is a nice feature to have for late night TV viewing. This set also handles standard definition TV with a dual NTSC tuner.

Controlling the set is a snap, as the 565H uses simple but clear text-based menus to make adjustments to the video and audio settings. This is controlled through the backlit universal remote, which can control up to seven devices! Many remote controls claim to be universal but the support with this sleek device lives up to the name. And while far from sleek itself, the 565H is a big TV that will provide a big picture.


Pros: 1080p, Three chip LCoS Light Engine, PixelWorks DNX Technology
Cons: Only one HDMI input

Warranty
1 year, limited