Panasonic’s TC-L32X1 is the only set in the company’s 2009 line that includes iPod support. But unlike JVC’s LT-P300 it can’t adjust aspect ratio for videos or display digital photos from an iPod. JVC’s model has better HDTV picture quality overall, but the Panasonic set is less expensive when matched up to to similar screen sizes. The Panasonic TC-LX1 series uses an external dock, unlike JVC’s model that integrates the dock into the set. Panasonic also added an A.I. picture function that actually alters the backlight of the set in accordance to what’s being shown. Its color management feature works with color decoding and video noise reduction as well.
Note: Panasonic’s TC-L32X1 shares the same features and performance as all models in the Panasonic X1 Series LCD HDTV series. This review here is slightly shorter than the Panasonic TC-L37X1 Review. If you want to find out a bit more about this model (especially about its features), feel free to consult that review as well.
Brief Specifications of TC-L32X1
- Resolution: 720p (standard), 1366 x 768 (exact)
- Contrast Ratio: 700:1 (native) 12000:1 Contrast Ratio (dynamic)
- 60Hz processing
- Ethernet: NO
- Picture-in-Picture: NO
- Anti-glare filter: YES
- 24p cinema mode: YES
- Viera Link
- SD Card Slot
- iPod Dock
- Energy Star Rated
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- iPod dock included for playback of videos and music
- Energy Star compliant
- Color accuracy acceptable
- Has three HDMI inputs and a PC input
Cons:
- iPod video’s aspect ratio not able to be altered
- Black levels very light
- Cannot view iPod-based digital photos
- Analog audio output not included
Features
While LG usually adds too many picture controls, Panasonic seems to undercut itself in this area. Panasonic’s Game mode preset, unlike Sony or Samsung’s, isn’t designed to alter the video processing if the set to increase the gaming experience. Panasonic’s TC-LX1 series isn’t able to achieve 1080p native resolution, and it can’t display 1080p signals, forcing users to set their HDMI gear to 1080i or 720p. The TV isn’t equipped with image freeze or picture-in-picture, but it can accept SD cards for viewing digital photos.
Black Levels
The TC-L32X1 doesn’t display black levels very well. In fact, Philips’ 42PFL6404D shows better black levels. Panasonic’s TC-L32X1 has shallow blacks, which kill the impression of an image. If users engage the A.I. picture feature on the TC-L32X1 m the picture improves a bit, but its inconsistency can be very distracting.
Color Accuracy
The TC-L32X1 does well when working with primary and secondary colors. It does so well that it even beats out Panasonic’s own plasmas. With a grayscale very accurate, the TC-L32X1’s color decoding can edge towards red sometimes.
Video Processing
The Panasonic TC-L32X1 should be commended for its sharp duplication, even akin to many1080p sets. While de-interlacing film-based content isn’t its strong point, 1080i video-based content are no problem at all.
Standard definition
The TC-L32X1 has a lot of problems with standard-def, not reproducing horizontal resolution accurately. Diagonal lines can create jaggies at times. Its noise reduction is good and interacts just fine with 2:3 pull-down detection, however.
Glare and Reflections
The matte screen of the TC-LX1 is perfect for ambient lighting. It has no problem with reflections like glass-screened plasmas or Samsung’s patented glossy screens.
Conclusion
JVC’s LT-P300 outperforms Panasonic’s TC-L32X1 because it can change out a TV show’s audio with that of an iPod or sync an iPod with a PC using USB. Though the TC-L32X1 has acceptable glare reflection, decent color accuracy, and plenty of connectivity options.
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