A Quick Guide in choosing an LCD/Plasma TV

On every technological release LCD attempts to approach plasma quality but never makes it.

But with the LH90 series, things are very different. The models of the series have excellent black levels, combined with highly accurate color. All three models, The LG42LH90 at 42 inches, the LG47LH90 at 47 inches, and the LG55LH90 at 55 inches are some of the best performers in the LCD television sector. All three models share the same features, except the screen size; I had the opportunity to explore and test the LG42LH90 model.

It was a great looking set, having a sleek rounded glossy frame encompassing the screen in black color. The swivel stand has a semi glass like look.

The model supports LED backlighting, allowing local dimming, i.e. parts of the screen can be dimmed or switched off. The LH90 series comes with 4 energy-saving modes on-hand, along with a graph to show you the way.

The series overall does not have picture-in-picture, but there is aspect ratio control including 5 modes or use with HD sources and 4 with standard-def. Two modes are adjustable zooms, and there’s a “set by program” mode designed to automatically pick the right aspect ratio setting based on the signal. LG’s back panel offers plenty of connections, starting with three HDMI, two component video, and an analog PC input. There’s no S-Video, however.

The side offers a fourth HDMI and a second AV input, along with a USB port for digital photos and music.

Connectivity is fairly extensive on the LH90, beginning with four total HDMI ports: 3 on the back and one on the side. The back panel also offers 2 component-video inputs, an AV input with composite video, an RF input for antenna or cable, an RGB-style analog PC input, an optical digital audio output, and an RS-232 port for custom installations.

Further to the fourth HDMI port, the side panel has a second AV input with composite video and a USB port for display of digital photos and playback of MP3 music files. Our one connectivity complaint is the lack of any S-Video inputs.

The LG42LH90 at 42 inches, the LG47LH90 at 47 inches, and the LG55LH90 at 55 inches are some of the best performing LCDs in the same category or slightly better from Sony.

The positive:

Great black levels, plethora of picture adjustments, matte screen and very good connectivity.

The negative:

Relatively expensive with poor angle performance and a little blooming. There are no interactive services like Sony, and no S video inputs.