Audioholics has published a detailed review on Pioneer PDP-42A3HD 42" Plasma TV and given an overall rating of 3.25/5.
The Pioneer PDP-42A3HD plasma television has excellent color and detail reproduction. Its ability to function as a high definition display, with progressive scan and upconversion capability is both effective and recommended should you not have the ability to feed it a better source signal. Where the Pioneer stumbles is in black level detail and overall dynamic range. We have seen better performances and feel that the Pioneer ends up being an average (that is to say still good) performer in a sea of competitive displays. Still - $2499 MSRP for a Pioneer plasma display is a tempting choice when evaluating the 42" flat panel market. We look forward to evaluating one of the company's higher end PureVision plasmas as we feel they possess technologies and features that are purposefully left out of the PDP-42A3HD in order to appeal to a more cost-conscious consumer.
Pros
- Super slim display
- Excellent quality and "bang for the buck"
- High measured ANSI contrast ratio
- ATSC and NTSC tuners
Cons
- "S-curve" gamma with crushed blacks
- Intrusive orbital screen saver on by default
- Limited color temperature controls
- Limited picture controls in user menu
- Flimsy, extraneous remote control cover
[Reviewed by Audioholics, via AVS Forum ]
