|
||
 |
||
|
| Gateway 42-Inch Plasma TV |
 Email This
 Print ThisView My Personal Library |
|
Reviews December 2003 • Vol.1 Issue 1 Page(s) 25 in print issue |
Gateway 42-Inch Plasma TV | ||
The Gateway model's specifications are typical for its class. Resolution (852 x 480) and scan rate (480p) are standard; the contrast ratio (550:1) and brightness (550 cd/m2 [candela per square meter]) are firmly in the middle of the pack. The Ultrabright version improves on both of these measures for an extra $500. Both models include audio outputs and a wide variety of inputs, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding the right connector for your devices or source setting for your video feeds. And, though not capable of true High Definition resolution, all Gateway plasmas can receive and display HD signals. We assessed picture quality and performance from a variety of common sources, including cable, satellite, VHS, and progressive-scan (displaying all lines of the picture simultaneously instead of alternating as in an interlaced picture) DVD, replicating home view-ing conditions and usage. The 42-inch ED model generally performed well with digital source material (our copies of "Moulin Rouge" and "Lord of the Rings" looked great) and high-quality television feeds. One problem with large, high-quality displays is that they tend to amplify problems with low-quality source material. The Gateway ED model exemplified that characteristic. Anyone can make "Ice Age" look good. The original "Italian Job," not yet available on DVD, is a tougher test. Quality suffered somewhat on DVDs made from older movies and dropped dramatically for VHS viewing. If you watch a lot of classics, prepare for highly contoured dark/light transitions and pixilated movement. The Gateway model compensated for low-quality source material more poorly than other models we've seen in the same price range. The fact that the device came with its contrast settings cranked all the way to 100 made us suspicious. Sure enough, if you turn down the contrast even a little, picture sharpness and brightness suffer. After playing around with the settings, you'll be glad for the Revert button that resets everything back to factory configuration. The various scr-een modes (16:9, 4:3, Wide, Panoramic, and Zooms) all worked reasonably well; 4:3 source material didn't noticeably distort when stretched to fit the screen, though picture quality suffered in all zoom modes. The built-in speakers simulate surround sound pretty well, though they're no substitute for a real home theater system. But if you want to route a cable or antenna feed directly through the TV, taking advantage of picture-in-picture tools, the internal stereo amp will work fine. We found the TV attractive and very easy to use; the buttons on the bezel were simultaneously discreet and easy to access. On-screen menus were intuitive and functional. The remote control has everything you need, though it hides some important buttons beneath an unnecessary sliding panel. The included table stand is nice (and unobtrusive); a wall mount costs $280 extra. Gateway also offers the 42-inch Plasma TV as part of its Media Center PC packages; ranging from $3,600 to $4,250, they aren't a bad way to roll a nice new PC in with a plasma screen pulling double duty as a huge monitor and snazzy television. All in all, the Gateway 42-inch ED Plasma TV is exactly what it claims to be—an entry-level plasma television. It's best suited for people who stick to high-quality video source material and don't de-mand a whole lot from their video components. You can't deny the appeal of the slim profile and high-quality picture. If you're looking for a bargain, though, it's hard to ignore all the high-definition and skinny projection screens on the market in the same price range. But if you're looking to make the leap to plasma at a reasonable price, you won't go wrong with the Gateway 42-inch.  by Gregory Anderson
|
|
Home Copyright & Legal Information Privacy Policy Site Map Contact Us