It is often said if something seems too good to be true, it probably is. But whoever coined that phrase never saw Samsung's PN42A450 42-inch plasma sets. This set offers a good picture at a very reasonable price.

As to be expected with more affordable plasma models, the Samsung PN42A450 features a native resolution of 1,024x768 and handles 720p HD content with ease, while 1080i and 1080p source material is scaled accordingly. HD content from cable and satellite does looks sharp and clear, and this model tackles standard definition with ease. The 42-inch screen size doesn't blow up the standard definition content to extreme sizes, of course, but this provides a better picture than you'd get with a larger-sized set. The crisp picture can also be credited to Samsung's DNIe technology, which further enhances the digital image to generate a crystal-clear picture that captures finite detail on video content.

Despite the fact this isn't a top-tier model from Samsung, you wouldn't know it by the appearance of the set. The Samsung PN42A450 has a slim design, keeping well within with the sleek sets currently being released. The screen blends almost seamlessly into the black bezel, all in all quite pleasing to the eye.

The picture was no less impressive. Most plasma HDTVs--at least those from the major manufacturers--generally tend to have very good black levels. The PN42A450 is no exception with deep black levels and surprisingly rich and vibrant colors besides. The set features a 20,000:1 contrast ratio, along with a whopping 100,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. While ambient light might compete a bit with the picture, you don't need a "bat cave" environment to enjoy this 42-inch model. The FilterBright anti-glare technology helps reduce light reflection and the results are adequate, if not comparable to what we're seeing with this year's LCD sets.

What is less of an issue is burn-in, and while it is still a minor issue, this set has the various screen protection features we'd expect to see. In addition to "pixel shift" and a white wash feature, this model features multiple settings for "full screen" or 4:3 programs so you don't get the ghosting from watching too many hours of TV with black bars on the set. Additionally, the PN42A450 features a range of other picture adjustment options, as well as a range of presets and picture modes, so it's easy to get a great picture practically out of the box. We liked that the user interface was very straightforward and easy to follow, and offered specific adjustments of brightness, contrast and color.

For an entry-level model, we found the A/V options to be acceptable. This includes three HDMI inputs, with one on the side. We feel that a side HDMI input is always nice to have, but not at the expense of having only two in the rear of the panel. We're pleased to report that the side inputs, which also include composite, S-Video and headphones are also much easier to access than last year's models. Additionally, the set features two component inputs, a composite video and a PC input but oddly no rear S-Video. In fairness with the widespread adoption of HDMI in devices including DVD players the S-Video connection is a bit antiquated, but it still seems odd not to have one at the back of the panel.

On the audio end, this 42-inch model features twin 10-watt speakers with support for SRS TruSurround XT. The results fail to make the impact of a true multi-channel surround sound system, but these were generally adequate, especially for a den or bedroom setting. The speakers are hidden away at the bottom of the panel, just under the screen, to maintain that sleek look. For a main viewing room, we'd still suggest an external audio system. We were also pleased with the inclusion of the headphone jack, so you enjoy the set even in the late hours of the night. With the quality of the picture on the PN42A450, you might not want to turn it off.

Pros: Very good black levels, three HDMI inputs, great price
Cons: Only 720p resolution, underwhelming speakers

Warranty
1 year, limited