Most promising of the 50PX4DR’s features is its integrated 160 GB
DVR. This has storage space for 13 hours of HDTV programming, or about 36 hours
of standard video. The recording quality of digital and high-definition TV is
essentially perfect, as the recorder stores and replays the broadcast bits
exactly as it receives them. The Gemstar TV Guide Onscreen electronic program
guide, on the other hand, is not entirely perfect. It is difficult at first to
learn how to use the recording features, and the remote is not entirely up to
scratch. It should have a one-button record feature right on the remote that
could start recording the show I’m watching if I have to go off in a hurry. The
only problem I was able to find with the LG was that on two occasions the remote
stopped working entirely and I was actually forced up, out of my chair to change
channels. In once case, the remote started working after a while, but in another
instance, I had to restart the TV. In the days of the iPod and simple
interfaces, this is annoying.
Generally speaking, the remote control doesn’t
utilize the feedback of the screen as much as it could. When it does use the
screen—such as selecting recorded programs for playback and when in the TV Guide
system—it was adequate. It is not nearly as easy as TiVo, however, but then
again it is a free service that works well with broadcast and cable TV, even if
it doesn’t support satellite. I suppose with time the DVR would become second
nature. Without a doubt, though, the rest of this brilliant plasma is just
right.
RATING: ELEVATED
Description: LG 50PX4DR 50-inch plasma HDTV
High Points: Built-in HDTV tuner
with great reception; 160 GB digital video recorder; FireWire connections for
camcorders and external digital recorders
Low Points: Recording shows is a
bit difficult; remote didn’t always work
Contact: LG, 800.243.0000
www.lgusa.com
Price: $5,999
