We'd previously written about the many new models of Panasonic Full HD (and Full HD 3D) VIERA televisions announced back at CES, but the manufacturer has now released more specific information on which models will be available when, and at what price (in some cases). All of the announced 2010 models promise improved power consumption efficiency that meets the new, more stringent EnergyStar 4.0 requirements, in addition to a lifespan of 100,000 hours to half-brightness.
Two new advancements promise not only to make the most of 3D images (when they arrive later this year) but to make ubiquitous 2D content look better than ever. First, an improved short-stroke phosphor design enables a quicker fade to black for sharper moving pictures, particularly valuable in 3D but also paving the way for superior 2D image quality. And new filters also enhance the video: both a pre-discharge filter for true blacks and infinite contrast, and a louver filter which reduces reflectivity for even greater sharpness as well as better contrast in bright viewing envrionments.
The VT25 Series introduces Panasonic's line of Full HD 3D TVs--providing full 1080p resolution to both the right and left eye--shipping in the spring/summer of 2010, with models in four different screen sizes. All include one pair of 3D eyewear, are THX certified, and offer Infinite Black Pro display with a 5,000,000:1 rated native contrast ratio. The series includes Panasonic's IPTV functionality, known as VIERA Cast, improved for 2010 now with Skype video calling (requires optional camera) and Netflix streaming. This year a new optional USB Wi-Fi Adaptor is being offered for those who do not have network cables handy. The VT series sets can also be ISF calibrated via new ISF memory settings in the setup menu.
Certain details such as the final pricing were withheld, in anticipation of a major 3D push planned for the weeks ahead, leading up to the consumer launch in May. The four VT25 models are the 64.8-inch TC-P65VT25, the 58-inch TC-P58VT25, the 54-inch TC-P54VT25 and the 50-inch TC-P50VT25, at prices to-be-determined.
The G25 series also features VIERA Cast, THX certification/THX Movie Mode and VIERA Image Viewer for playing back digital still JPEG images and AVCHD videos recorded to an SD memory card, plus VIERA Link for superior networking of CE components. The G25 line features a PC input and two USB ports, enabling that Wireless LAN Adaptor connectivity and/or the addition of an optional wireless keyboard. Best of all, the NeoPDP design of the G25 series provides full-time 1,080 lines of moving picture resolution and Panasonic's 600Hz Sub-field Drive. The 54-inch TC-P54G25 will carry a suggested retail price of $1,999.95, the 50-inch TC-P50G25 comes in at $1,499.95, the 46-inch TC-P46G25 at $1,399.95 and the 42-inch TC-P42G25 at $1,199.95. The G25 line will be arriving this March/April.
The VIERA S2 series offers a wide range of screen sizes, from a 65-inch class (64.8 inches, measured diagonally) down to 42-inch class (41.6 inches, measured diagonally). The essential S2 features include 1,080 lines of moving picture resolution to eliminate traditional HDTV motion blur, 2,000,000:1 native contrast, 600Hz Sub-field Drive, an anti-reflective filter and the Clean Touch bezel (on all but the two largest screen sizes) to help banish unsightly fingerprints. The 65-inch class TC-P65S2 will retail for $2,799.95, the 58-inch TC-P58S2 for $1,899.95, the 54-inch TC-P54S2 for $1,599.95, the 50-inch class TC-P50S2 for $1,299.95, the 46-inch TC-P46S2 for $1,099.95 and the 42-inch class TC-P42S2 for a mere $899.95. These models will be arriving this month through June of this year.
And from the "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em" department at Panasonic (I think they occupy most of the third floor) comes a pair of backlit LED LCD televisions, with white LEDs positioned around the inside frame of the TV coupled with a special light diffusion panel to evenly distribute the illumination, making possible thinner panels and wider viewing angles. Contrast, color gamut and energy efficiency are all improved as well. The VIERA LED-LCD D2 Series features two 1080p Full HD models, the 37-inch TC-L37D2 and the 41.6-inch TC-L42D2.
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