Panasonic TX-P42V20 Hits UK Stores

Stock of the Panasonic TX-P42V20 (may also be known as the Panasonic TX-P42V20B, denoting the 3-pin-plug British version) plasma TV has arrived at Panasonic stores and independent dealers across the UK over the last few days.

The TX-P42V20 comes from the Panasonic V20 plasma range which is the final piece of the puzzle (sandwiched between the more affordable G20 series and the flagship VT20 3D TV models) in the company’s Viera NeoPDP lineup. Two sizes are available to buy at this time of writing: the 42-inch Panasonic TX-P42V20B/ TX-P42V20 (RRP £1300) and the 50-inch Panasonic TX-P50V20B/ TX-P50V20 (RRP £1600).

Like its predecessor the V10 series, the Panasonic TX-P42V20 HDTV boasts a full HD native screen resolution of 1920×1080, NeoPDP screen technology, a Freesat HD tuner, and 600Hz Sub-field Drive Intelligent Frame Creation Pro. The Panasonic TX-P42V20B plasma television does however offer the following improvements over the TX-P42V10:

• Integrated Freeview HD tuner;
• “Infinite Black Pro” technology, comprising a “High Contrast Filter Pro” coating that reduces the washed-out effect of ambient light hitting the plasma screen, and a new NeoPDP panel with higher native contrast ratio;
• White balance and gamma controls with ISFccc available in the user menu;
• Wifi-ready via an optional dongle;
• Two USB ports which allow you to playback music, pictures and video files, and also record HD or SD TV content to an external hard drive like a PVR. Unfortunately the recorded programmes are encrypted and cannot be viewed on other televisions or computers.

But the main reason why videophiles are interested in the Panasonic TX-P42V20B/ TX-P50V20B is because the Panasonic V20 plasma is purportedly identical to the VT20 minus the 3D technology and faster phosphors. Given that the Panasonic VT20 has recently been rated as “Reference Level” in our review, the Panasonic V20 should appeal to buyers who are not yet willing to dip their toes in 3D TV waters (although until we get a set in for review, we cannot verify if the 2D picture quality on the Panasonic TX-P42V20 is equal to that on the VT20).