Toshiba's 42HP84 is a 42-inch, HD-ready plasma TV with split-screen capability and a base that detaches for wall mounting. The metallic silver monitor and matching base combine for a very sleek and modern look. Twin stereo speakers are built into either side of the screen, and the front is clear of any distractions, with control buttons located along one side edge and easy-access A/V/S-video inputs and a headphone jack along the other.

The picture is displayed at 1,024X768 regardless of the source, appearing sharp and clear on the wide-format screen. The addition of an HD receiver will deliver complete high-definition on this set, but even standard programming looks extremely sharp. Detail is strong in both dark and light areas, and contrast and color perform well. Digital noise is reduced with a 3-D Y/C digital comb filter, which ensures that rainbow effects are eliminated on content coming in through the RF and video inputs. The picture can be configured in five widescreen formats to accommodate different sorts of programming, and there is a choice of four picture presets to make quick adjustments of the picture settings.

The stereo speakers produce a total of 20 watts of audio output, which can be set up to simulate surround sound, brighten vocal content, or enhance bass tones. Automatic volume leveling, which is selectable from the menu, will maintain audio at a stable level. A range of convenience features are built into the 42HP84, including sleep and on timers, a channel return that memorizes a channel and returns to it after surfing, and a suite of parental controls including input and channel locks. The picture can be split to view two programs side by side, and 12 small windows can also be displayed to preview other channels.

In addition to the side-panel inputs, the rear panel contains two RF inputs for use with antenna and cable sources, two audio/video/S-video inputs, two sets of component video inputs, and an HDMI interface, along with fixed and variable audio outputs for use with external speakers. The universal remote control can manage up to five associated components.

Warranty
1 year parts and labor