Samsung PN58A550 58-inch 1080p Plasma HDTV
If you've done your research on plasma vs. LCD televisions and determined a plasma HDTV is the best selection for you (darker, more accurate black levels being just one of the plasma advantages) then the new PN58A550
from Samsung is a set you must consider.
This is the largest model in Samsung's new 550 Series of plasma sets for 2008, and it builds on the technologies found in its popular big-screen plasmas from last year. While the PN58A550 looks similar to the FPT5884, it packs some specs that take advantage of the latest in plasma HDTV technology.
Boasting 18-bit color and a dynamic contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1, the PN58A550 promises to deliver stunning color range and great detail even in the darkest of scenes.
As should be expected in a 58" plasma television, the PN58A550 delivers full HD, 1080p, through its 1920 x 1080-pixel screen. Having a 1080p set means you'll see the finest of detail in video from sources like high definition television channels, Blu-Ray discs and newer gaming consoles like Playstation 3 and Xbox 360.
And don't forget the audio experience: the PN58A550's sound output benefits from Samsung's SRS TruSurround XT system, which helps deliver a movie theatre-like sound experience in the comfort of your viewing room. The set's sleek new design moves the thin speakers to the sides of the set, allowing for a slimmer frame around the screen.
The PN58A550 employs the DNIe (Digital Natural Image engine) which examines four aspects of your source video and adjusts the picture output to create the sharpest, most vivid picture possible. The four DNIe processes include: Motion Optimizer, Contrast Enhancer, Detail Enhancer and Color Optimizer.
All but the most die-hard AV enthusiast should be satisfied with the PN58A550's video input options, with 3 HDMI, 2 component, 1 composite, and 1 PC input.
Compare the Samsung PN58A550 to the latest plasma televisions from the likes of Pioneer and Panasonic, and you may find that other leading plasma makers may have a loftier pedigree (with the higher prices that go with it), but Samsung has been churning out quality, affordable plasma sets that have been earning it a reputation as one of the top plasma manufacturers. Need further proof? Check out user reviews for the PN58A550 at Amazon.com.
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