Dell W4200 HD Plasma TV

Everyone is getting into the HDTV business one way or another. We’ve heard of manufacturers that 5 to 10 years ago, we didn’t even know existed. Now, there’s a huge market for it and even PC makers are getting in on the act. Dell is one of these manufacturers with its Dell W4200 HD Plasma TV, a 42-inch HD model that stands out from the pack.

The W4200 has a native pixel resolution of 1,024-by-768. Technically, it isn’t a true high-definition device as it doesn’t have enough pixels to draw a 1,280-by-720 (720p) HDTV image. However, its PixelWorks video processor does a very good job scaling both 720p and 1080i HDTV images to fit onto the screen.

In addition, the TV is rich in connection options, including one each for HDMI and DVI, and a generous three component-input sets. It also accepts both analog (VGA) and digital (DVI) input from a computer, just perfect for hooking up a high-end media center PC. Stereo plus composite and S-Video inputs tucked on the side of the panel offer convenience without being unsightly. The one notable omission, however, is a slot for a CableCard. The set’s built-in ATSC tuner can receive digital broadcasts only from an antenna. For HDTV from cable or satellite services, a set-top box is required.

The W4200 performed well, though like all plasma panels, white-luminance levels diminish as more of the screen displays full white. The panel’s black levels were very solid, however, and it exhibited a good average contrast ratio of 506:1. The W4200’s color response was good, though its default settings had the green response boosted, likely to improve perceived brightness.

Using HDTV content, the W4200 looked pretty good. Black levels seemed a bit washed out though. Dell has made a strong first showing with the W4200. However, it could have been more.

The unit’s audio is adequate. The twin speakers, rated at 20 watts each, sounded a bit softer than those on some competing TVs. And its one surround-sound option, SRS True Surround XT, was not as enveloping as the audio on those other models. But the speakers are powerful enough to fill an average room, and they handled even heavy bass with minimal distortion at high volume.

Sources:
http://www.wiredhome-weblog.com
http://sapventures.typepad.com
http://www.channelinsider.com