If you are shopping for an LCD HDTV but don't have the space for one of the 40- or 50-inch models, consider Samsung's LN-S3251D. This 32-inch set looks great, and it delivers very good performance as well. The suggest price is higher than many comparable-size models, but if you can't live without the LN-S3251D's sharp styling, it may be worth the extra cost.

The glossy black cabinet has rounded edges, and the bezel below the screen tapers to a broad V that is highlighted with blue. The colored area is the output point of the integrated stereo speakers, which Samsung cleverly hides within the cabinet. With easy-access inputs and control buttons located on the sides of the cabinet, the only features interrupting the sleek front panel are the power button and the Samsung logo. The LN-S3251D comes with a swivel stand that detaches for mounting the monitor on the wall. This unit is also available in white with a burgundy highlight as model LN-S3252D.

With its native resolution of 1,366X768, the LN-S3251D can show every pixel of 720p HD programming, and all incoming content is scaled to fit the pixels. Samsung's DNIe image processing keeps edges sharp, which is a good thing because it can't be turned off. Black levels are impressive for an LCD TV, and images appear bright enough for most light conditions. There is a choice of five color temperature settings, as well as multiple aspect ratio modes for standard and HD sources. Overall, the LN-S3251D produces fine picture quality.

The audio system offers 20 watts of total output, which is good for a TV of this size. However, the LN-S3251D's hidden speaker design doesn't produce the greatest audio quality. The usual options of automatic volume leveling and simulated surround sound can be activated through the LN-S3251D's relatively easy-to-navigate menu system.

The convenience features are fairly standard, with an adjustable sleep timer, parental V-chip controls, a full-screen picture freeze and single-source PIP. The LN-S3251D includes a universal remote control that can operate up to four associated components, but it unfortunately doesn't illuminate for use in the dark. While it has an integrated HD tuner, the LN-S3251D lacks a QAM tuner or CableCARD slot, so it isn't digital cable-ready.

The selection of inputs and outputs is fairly expansive for an LCD TV of this size. A set of composite video/S-video inputs and a headphone jack are located on the side panel. The rear panel is home to two RF inputs, two HDMI inputs, one component video input, one S-video input, one composite video input and an optical digital audio output. Also present is a PC input and an RS-232C connection for linking and controlling a digital audio player.

While it carries a higher price tag than many comparably sized LCD HDTVs, the Samsung LN-S3251D offers strong performance in a great-looking package.


Pros:  Attractive black cabinet, sharp picture, good connectivity
Cons:  Hidden-speaker design compromises sound quality, not digital cable-ready, relatively high price

Warranty
1 year parts and labor