LG 42LBX “Opus” 42″ LCD HDTV

At the Fall of 2007, a new LBX series of LCD TV’s has been released by LG Electronics. Some call it by its Model Name but it is preferably known as the Opus. Of course, as one of the top line manufacturers of High-Definition Television, the Opus contains all the perks that a TV should have - 1080p resolution, 120 Hz. display, multiple HDMI 1.3 inputs, and a USB port.

The 42LBX is encased in a two-inch frame which is a bit wider than some of the newer ultra slim bezel models. The bottom curves out to about five inches below the screen and houses the two 10W stereo speakers.

The only thing that marred the beauty of this unit is the winking-smiling LG logo up front. Other than that, the unit looks clean and simple - which for my taste, is very good indeed. On the right side is a Power indicator light. And if you look closely on the bottom left corner, you’ll find a little Intelligent Eye sensor that when activated, adjusts the picture to the light in the room.

As far as its connectivity is concerned, the back portion consists of a connection panel that provides three HDMI 1.3 compatible inputs, two Component (YPbPr) with matching stereo Audio Ins, one Composite (with Audio), one VGA (15 pin D-Sub) with a stereo Audio In mini-plug, and an S-Video. In addition, an SPDIF (optical) digital Audio Out is provided next to L/R Stereo Outs.

On the back left edge of the TV is a smaller convenience connection panel containing a set of Composite Inputs and a USB port for inputting a USB flash drive full of JPEG images and MP3 files.

The picture quality of the Opus is definitely up there with all the other bigs of the HDTV industry. Sensational is one word that can describe it and it is what users should expect from a flagship line of LCD’s. The colors are rich and true. The detail is fabulous.

Dynamic Contrast is rated at a very respectable 10:000 to 1. But even this top class of LCDs does not rival the Black Level of high end plasmas. Word is that they are narrowing the gap.

Feeding this HDTV 1080p programming from a Blu-ray or HD DVD disc is a sublime joy.

The Opus series is the top of LG’s line of LCDs, and the performance reflects that stature. The display of HD programs is remarkable and SD material is about as good as can be expected. The integrated 10W speakers are adequate for daytime TV, but not a home theater.

Sources:
http://www.retrevo.com
http://reviews.cnet.com
http://www.hdtvlounge.net