The Westinghouse LTV-40w1 HDC is not your ordinary TV/DVD combination. This 40-inch LCD flat-panel set includes an HD tuner, so in addition to a top-notch DVD platform, the LTV-40w1 HDC serves as a high-end television as well.

All TV images, both standard- and high-definition, are scaled to the LTV-40w1 HDC's native resolution of 1,366X768 and displayed at 768p. This set includes digital video processing, noise reduction and a cross-color suppressor, so images appear clear and sharp. The LTV-40w1 HDC does not do a very good job presenting deep blacks, but this is a shortcoming shared by many LCD TVs. Although there is no CableCARD slot, the LTV-40w1 HDC has a QAM tuner, so you can watch non-interactive digital cable content without a cable box.

The DVD player offers progressive scan playback, and in addition to DVD-Video, it is compatible with DVD-R/RW, DVD+R/RW, VCD, SVCD and CD-R/RW. Discs load through a slot in the front panel. The only button on the front panel is for ejecting discs, as the other buttons are lined along the right side of the cabinet.

Stereo speakers rated at 10 watts of audio output per channel are located below the screen, and they provide adequate sound. The LTV-40w1 HCD also has a digital audio output for routing the sound to a home theater receiver, but this would take away from the unit's all-in-one philosophy.

All of the inputs and outputs are lined along the sides of the cabinet. They include an RF input, an S-video input, a pair of component video inputs and an HDMI digital-to-digital input. The LTV-40w1 HDC also has a VGA PC input with audio, so you can connect your computer and surf the internet and play games on the big screen.

For a combination TV/DVD player that goes far beyond the usual boxy offerings, take a look at the Westinghouse LTV-40w1 HDC.


Pros: High-tech TV and DVD player in one unit, PC and HDMI inputs
Cons: Single RF input, unimpressive audio performance, side inputs and outputs can lead to an unsightly jumble of cables, no PIP functions

Warranty
1 year parts and labor