Panasonic TX-P50ST50B Pro Reviews

We have spent some paragraphs describing certain shortcomings on the ST50, but we could probably have written twice as many extolling the numerous virtues of the 3D plasma TV. The bottom line is, the Panasonic TX-P50ST50B is a competitively-priced HDTV that will appeal greatly to movie lovers, sports fans and video gamers, thanks to its near-reference greyscale and colour accuracy, outstanding motion performance, as well as excellent gaming responsiveness.

LCD TVs might be getting better and better every year, but the Panasonic P50ST50 shows that plasma isn't resting on its laurels either. In fact, if you're remotely into movies, its wonderfully contrast-rich, finely detailed and gorgeously nuanced pictures are simply unbeatable at the £1,200/$1,400 price level. This will be reason enough in itself for many people to buy a Panasonic P50ST50, but if you add to the equation its fine multimedia tools and increasingly comprehensive online services, it starts to look nigh on irresistible.

It would seem that Samsung's recent plasma successes have caused Panasonic to raise their game with the ST50 and deliver a solid mid-range plasma that will give the Korean giant a run for its money this year. To begin with, the P50ST50B has had something of a makeover, with the metal and glass design approach, coupled with the crystal frame resulting in a display that is attractive, classy and contemporary. The glossy gunmetal bezel is thin without being excessively so and the brushed metal stand really sets off the whole display. The build quality is excellent, with a well made chassis that has a metal back and a high end feel. Despite a screen size of 50cm, the entire chassis is only 3cm deep and the comprehensive connections are designed to aid wall mounting. Our only complaint in this area is that, as is often the case, the HDMI inputs are too near the edge.