The PT-56LCX66 is a Panasonic HDTV that relies on LCD rear-projection (RP) technology to deliver a lively picture from a conservatively styled yet attractive cabinet. The PT-56LCX66 is also relatively inexpensive for a 56-inch set, making it good model to consider if you are shopping for a big-screen HDTV but don't want to take out a second mortgage.

The PT-56LCX66 includes an integrated ATSC/QAM tuner, allowing you to potentially view unscrambled digital cable and over-the-air and cable HD content without an extra set-top box (check with your cable provider for QAM compatibility). However, it lacks a CableCARD slot. The front panel is home to a set of composite video/S-video inputs, as well as an SD memory card slot for viewing digital photos in a slideshow or thumbnail format. The PT-56LCX66 also has a PC input, so you can play games and even surf the internet on the big screen.

The PT-56LCX66 utilizes three LCD panels to display a bright picture with accurate colors, although black levels are not as deep as on similar-size DLP and CRT RP sets. A 3-D Y/C digital comb filter eliminates cross-color interference, and video noise reduction helps keep the picture clear. Movies are adapted for video presentation with automatic 3:2 pulldown conversion. Computer content can be viewed at the VGA, SVGA or XGA level.

Audio is not the PT-56LCX66's strong suit, as this HDTV produces only 20 total watts of stereo output. On the plus side, there are three audio presets, and an automatic volume leveling and simulated surround sound. The convenience features offered are typical for an RP set of this size, including multiple aspect modes and parental controls like V-chip program lockout. Curiously, Panasonic does not include any PIP options.

In addition to the front-panel inputs, the rear of the PT-56LCX66 offers a good selection of connection choices. These include two more composite video/S-video inputs, two component video inputs, two HDMI digital-to-digital inputs, the PC input, an RF input, a coaxial digital audio output and a composite video output. The universal remote control has buttons that glow in the dark, a disc controller to navigate through menus and four direct-access buttons for connected components.

Despite some shortcomings, the Panasonic PT-56LCX66's respectable performance and useful features make it an attractive and affordable choice for a 56-inch rear-projection HDTV.

Pros: Good input selection, PC compatibility, competitive price
Cons: Underpowered audio system, no PIP functions, no CableCARD slot

Warranty
1 year parts, 18 months lamp