Samsung LN40A450 40-inch 720p LCD HDTV

Anyone new to the world of HDTV and not yet ready to take the plunge with a giant, expensive new television should pay close attention to the new 40" LCD model from Samsung, the LN40A450.

This is an entry-level 40-inch HDTV that still manages to pack a number of the newest technologies into its thin frame.

But since it is a lower-end set, you can expect some of the vital specs -- such as max resolution, pixel response time and dynamic contrast ratio -- to come in under the higher-end models in Samsung's line-up. Keep reading for a quick feature review of the LN40A450 and how it compares vs. Samsung's other new models.

The LN40A450 features the same basic specs as all the sets in Samsung's new 450 Series (or Series 4) from the company's 2008 lineup. It features a 10,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, which measures the range of tone gradation from the blackest blacks to the whitest whites that a television can produce. This is an increase from the specifications on similar model sets from 2007 (up from 8,000:1).

Plus the LN40A450 boasts an impressive 6-millisecond pixel response time to decrease blurring and produce fluid, fast-moving images. This is a bit slower than the higher-end series 5 and 6 (550 and 650) LCDs from Samsung's new lineup, but 6ms is still better than some of the best-selling models on the market today. (And it bests Samsung's comparable 2007 models by a few milliseconds.)

The LN40A450 registers a 450nit brightness level, which should help to make the colors output by your HD source material richer and more realistic looking than what you're used to seeing on standard definition television.

The LN40A450 is equipped with comes with integrated digital tuners (ATSC and QAM), meaning you'll be ready to accept digital signals mandated by the new federal regulations set to go into effect in 2009.

Another important thing to consider is the number of input options for connecting your video sources. The LN40A450 should have you well-covered, with 3 HDMI, 2 component, 1 S-video, 2 composite, and 1 PC input.

But don't let this or any other review of the LN40A450 be the deciding factor for you. Complete your research by finding out what other buyers like you think of this model. Read user reviews of the LN40A450 at Amazon.com.

Compare the LN40A450 to these 40" LCD HDTVs: