While some older rear projection technologies, notably CRT, fade away into the sunset, newer tech arrives just as quickly. One of the newest for rear projection micro-display technologies is the innovative LIFI light source from Lumix, which is being used in Panasonic's new PT-56LCZ70. This 56-inch LCD rear projection display uses the Lumix LIFI (LIght FIdelity) light source rather than a traditional bulb. As with the LED light sources that Mitsubishi and Samsung are starting to use with their current line of DLP rear projection sets, LIFI means a light source that may last so long it might never be changed. And much like the LED sources, LIFI offers many of the same qualities

This lamp has no electrodes, meaning you won't have to worry about a diminished picture over time, as there are no traditional electrodes to wear out. Instead, the picture with the Panasonic PT-56LCZ70 should be as bright after 20,000 hours as the day you first turned on the set.

The LIFI light source has the benefit of heating up quickly when the power is turned on, so you'll be watching TV before you can even lower the remote control. And while many manufacturers boast about lifelike colors, this set actually delivers. We were impressed by the colors and contrast that this set produces: The reds are certainly very rich, but the skin tones have a very natural quality to them as well. There are a variety of aspect control settings, including those for 4:3, zoom, full, H-fill and even modes specifically designed for use with a PC.

In keeping with the high-tech features on the inside, the set is quite chic on the outside. The PT-56LCZ70 has a reasonably-sized footprint for a 56-inch set, and it could almost be considered a lightweight at less than 73 pounds. This model has a nice design with a piano black finish, and more impressive were the conveniently located ports for various connections. The 1080p PT-56LCZ70 features three HDMI inputs (one front, two rear), along with an SD memory card slot (for viewing of digital photo), PC input, and S-Video and composite inputs. There are dual rear component video with RCA audio inputs, and an optical audio output.

Sitting below the screen are the set's pair of speakers, which have 20 watts of total power. We found that these deliver reasonable sound, but obviously to take advantage of the superior picture you'll want a true surround sound system. Price wise the Panasonic PT-56LCZ70 is a bit more than comparable sized 56-inch sets, but as you're paying for the new LIFI technology this is to be expected. Sometimes it pays to be on the cutting edge.


Pros: Long lasting light source, three HDMI inputs, sleek design
Cons: Needs dedicated surround sound system to get the full experience, no coaxial audio output

Warranty
1-year limited; 5 years, light source