Less than a decade ago, a 42-inch plasma TV cost as much as $15,000. What a difference a decade makes, as today the Philips 42PFP5332D/37 can be found online for less than $1,300. This may not be the most state-of-the-art HDTV, but it still does a fine job with HD content as well as standard-definition sources like DVD.

The 42PFP5332D/37 features a native resolution of 1,024x768, with a 60Hz refresh rate. It handles 720p content from cable and satellite set-top boxes very well, and it upscales 480i and 480p content to fit the pixels. In addition, 1,080i and 1,080p source material delivered via HDMI is downscaled, but it still appears crisp. A 3-D digital comb filter helps sharpen broadcast programming, and movie buffs will appreciate the 3:2 and 2:2 pulldown conversion that removes motion judder from film content.

Philips includes its Pixel Plus 3 technology, which enhances each pixel to better match the surrounding pixels, thus producing a sharper image with greater detail. Having tested it on several models and seeing it in action on the 42PFP5332D/37, we found that the PixelPlus 3 works well with some content but can make other images far too sharp, as though the source was shot on poorly lit low-resolution video. The PixelPlus 3 technology does a great job with content that already has image issues, proving very effective with old home movies and TV shows on VHS.

The 42PFP5332D/37's picture is generally very good. It doesn't produce the best black levels, and while the colors are for the most part accurate, we've seen better. However, if you can live with slightly washed-out blacks and just a bit of a color irregularity, this set is a true value. There are plenty of options to adjust the color to your own preferences, but just don't expect the 42PFP5332D/37 to compare to the latest models from Panasonic or Pioneer.

The 42PFP5332D/37 looks as stylish as the more upscale models, featuring an extended casing that accentuates the overall thinness of the panel. This bezel design makes for a bright screen that is encased within an attractive, high-tech picture frame. However, to truly appreciate the design, you need to be viewing the 42PFP5332D/37 from front-and-center, as this plasma set has a less-than-wonderful horizontal viewing angle of 160 degrees.

More impressive are the 42PFP5332D/37's connectivity options. There are two HDMI inputs, two component video inputs, two composite video inputs, an S-video input and a coaxial digital audio output on the rear panel, as well as a headphone jack, a USB port, an S-video input and component video input on the side and front panels. The headphone jack is a welcome addition, as many higher-end HDTVs now omit this basic yet useful listening option.

The USB port works with the 42PFP5332D/37's digital content management system to serve as a digital media reader capable of playback of JPEG images, MP3 music files and slideshows using the .alb format. This set also is quite capable in the sound department, with a pair of 15-watt speakers located below the screen. Dolby Digital decoding and Virtual Dolby Surround are available as audio options, so you don't need to power up your home theater system to catch the weather forecast on the evening news.

While the 42PFP5332D/37 is affordable, it doesn't skimp on important features like burn-in protection. To prevent image-sticking, a common problem with plasma technologies, Philips utilizes an anti-aging circuit to ensure that you don't get unnatural wear from static images such as tickers and channel logos. Nevertheless, we'd advise against using the 42PFP5332D/37 for extended video-game sessions, as there is always a risk of burn-in caused by status bars and other stationary game graphics. Another complaint against plasma screens in general is their weak performance in the presence of ambient room light, but with the 42PFP5332D/37, Philips done a good job combating this with anti-reflective screen coating that cuts reflections.

If you're in the market for a plasma HDTV but don't have the means for a high-end 1,080p marvel, the Philips 42PFP5332D/37 proves to be a great combination of performance and price.


Pros: Handles standard-definition content very well, USB connectivity, strong audio system, great price for the features offered
Cons: Only 720p resolution, limited to two HDMI inputs, relatively poor viewing angles

Warranty
1 year, limited