LG 42PG6000 Review Verdict

Pros

• Comprehensive array of picture adjustment controls
• Near-D65 greyscale after calibration via user menu white balance controls
• Accurate primary colours after calibration via colour management system
• Good standard-def video processing (scaling, video and film mode deinterlacing)
• Generous connectivity with 4 HDMI 1.3 inputs, USB port, etc.
• Fluid motion handling with minimal blurring
• Allow for zero overscan with "Just Scan" [Aspect Ratio] for 720 and 1080 source
• Settings can be saved independently for each input
  
• Wide viewing angle (above 150°)
• Perfect screen uniformity
• Above average sound from TV speakers
• Gorgeous "frameless" design
  
• Beautiful and intuitive on-screen menu
• Inexpensive price – terrific value-for-money
  

Cons

• Native screen resolution only 1024x768 (not full HD)
  
• Blacks not as deep as the latest Pioneer and Panasonic plasmas
• Exhibits more image retention than the latest Pioneer and Panasonic plasmas
  
• Subtle telecine judder remains present when fed with 1080p/24 video signal
• Does not display blacker-than-black (BTB) data
• Film mode deinterlacing cannot be engaged over HDMI (option is greyed out)
• The usual issues of PWM noise, glass reflection, phosphor trails and plasma buzz which are present on all plasma televisions to a certain extent

Conclusion

After living with the LG 42PG6000 for more than a week, it's not difficult to see why the PG6000 plasma series walked away with a "Best Of Innovation" award at Consumer Electronic Show (CES) 2008, and why its competitors – Panasonic in particular – should be very afraid. What we have here is a plasma television that is gorgeously sculpted, and packed with the most comprehensive concoction of picture adjustments and connection options we've seen among all the HDTVs we've tested to date.

Although black level does not quite reach the inkiness on Panasonic and Pioneer plasmas, and native screen resolution is only 1024x768 (i.e. not true HD), these deficiencies are easily forgiven when you look at its jaw-dropping bargain price of less than £700 if you shop around. Given its multiple merits, the LG 42PG6000 effortlessly coasts straight into our current list of recommended HDTVs.