The HL61A750 is part of Samsung's Series 7 models, which feature this year's Cinema Pure Color Engine and use the Generation 2.3 LED light engine. The light source is rated for 60,000 hours while being Energy Star compliant. As expected, this set is rated to use a bit less energy, but what savings you'll see will surely depend on your viewing habits. Because of the long-lasting bulb, you won't have to replace the light source for the life of the TV. The downside is that should the bulb go bad, replacement can be a tad expensive.

We found the Samsung HL61A750 to have a very good picture, with reasonably dark black levels for a screen of this size. It is typical for larger rear projection sets to have problems with convincing black levels, but the results were decent with this 61-inch model. Likewise, we found the colors to be quite vivid and reasonably lifelike during our extended viewing.

This 61-inch Series 7 model is a full HD 1080p set, and thus accordingly features a native resolution of 1,920x1,080. It can accurately display every pixel from 1080i and 1080p sources, and up-converts 720p source material accordingly. Any set this size is going to have some issue with standard definition content, but the HL61A750 did a reasonable job of smoothing the image so that even older shows still look crisp and clear. With a set this size, however, the true HD content from Blu-ray and cable TV is what truly impresses.

There are plenty of connectivity options to get content to the HL61A750. Samsung has provided apt connections for all your A/V needs, including a reasonably impressive three HDMI 1.3 inputs. While the x.v.Color support is still yet to be fully realized, it is a nice inclusion with this set, especially considering that you're likely going to want to keep it for a while. The only complaint about the A/V options with the Series 7 models--and actually with all of Samsung's DLP offerings for 2008--is that these inputs/outputs have been placed on the side. This means the set can be fully pushed back to the wall, but it does limit the placement of other components, or could mean you'll have to get longer cables.

This set features three HDMI inputs, and we really would have expected to see four for a step-up model. But in addition to the HDMI, the HL61A750 further features twin component inputs, S-Video and PC (RGB) inputs at the back, as well as side composite and S-Video inputs. This set further features a USB input with WiseLink USB 2.0 for playback of photos and MP3 audio tracks.

We also found the two 10-watt speakers to be a little lacking for a set this size. While these do support SRS TruSurround XT, the results don't really compare to a true home theater surround sound system, especially in larger rooms where the HL61A750 is likely to be most enjoyed.

Fortunately given the price, you'll be able to spend the money on a good home theater system and enjoy a home cinema experience with a truly massive set.

Pros: Reasonably good black levels, HDMI 1.3, nice design, LED light source
Cons: Only three HDMI inputs, all side inputs, underpowered speakers for set this size

Warranty
1 year, limited