Vizio could be one HDTV maker to watch, even if the company is less than a decade old. Founded in 1999, Vizio is today best known for bringing decently-priced TVs to the American market. While the quality isn't nearly on the level of Panasonic or Pioneer, the sets are so reasonably priced that they're are worth considering, especially if you have a tight budget and can sacrifice a bit of quality in what you're getting.

This isn't to say the sets skimp on features, either. The Vizio VO47LF is a stylish-looking 47-inch panel display with a native resolution of 1,920x1,080. Thus the set can easily handle every pixel of content from 1080p sources and does a very good job with HDTV source material, including down converted 720p content. The set makes getting HDTV sources a snap, as this model includes four HDMI inputs, as well as two component HD inputs. This model even includes a PC RGB input, along with analog audio inputs, plus a single S-Video and a single composite video input. About the only complaint with the set's connectivity options is with the lack of any front or side panel access--if you want to use it with a camcorder or digital camera, you'll have to climb around to the back of the set.

Overall, we were quite pleased with the picture quality of the Vizio VO47LF with HD source material. We did it to be a bit lacking in black levels, not matching the deep blacks of some of the more expensive sets we've already seen this year. Likewise, the colors are a bit inaccurate out of the box. The picture improves greatly with just a few adjustments, which there are plenty to make, including picture adjustments by input. However, we were surprised to find this 47-inch model only features two HD aspect ratios.

The LCD screen on the VO47LF reflects almost no light, so you won't need to worry about darkening the room to enjoy the bright and clear picture. According to Vizi,o the set is viewable from up to 178 degrees, but in practice we found that the picture suffers greatly from off-angle viewing. This is true of many LCD sets, but with this one, you'll want a seat in the front to really enjoy the picture.

The set's twin built-in 10 watt speakers offer reasonable audio clarity, but they failed to come close to delivering the punch you'd expect with HDTV content. Considering the price of this model, you should have a few dollars left over to buy a dedicated home theater surround sound system.

While the price may be quite affordable, the set is still quite stylish. It has a sleek two-tone finish that makes the bezel appear even smaller and sleeker. Vizio may not be ready to compete with older and bigger manufacturers, but shoppers on a tight budget would do well to consider the VO47LF.

Pros: Great price for a 1080p, four HDMI inputs
Cons: Slightly inaccurate colors, limited HD aspect ratios, bad off-angle viewing

Warranty
1 year, limited