Product Listing

Panasonic 54-inch VIERA TH-P54Z1N Plasma TV - Big on AV

By Andy Sim - 20 Feb 2010
Launch SRP: S$6499

HD and SD Video Tests

Video Test


High Definition Tests

If you recall, our earlier assessment of Panasonic's V-series resulted in an indisputable verdict - the V11 has crowned our tests with its potential for commendable blacks and finely honed images. True to its nature, the Z1 we're looking at has much in common with its 50-inch PDP brother, since they are both driven by a comparable NeoPDP panel and video processing technology. Electronic innovations such as a 600Hz sub-field drive and Real Black Drive system are what they share. To shed some light on this brand of sub-field motion, it simply means the TV is flashing an output of 60 frames per second, multiplied by 10 sub-fields, to deliver 600Hz every second. That said, will the Z1 trounce the V11 on the high definition front? Or are they one and the same under different skins? Let's find out.

There's one Blu-ray title we can count on if we'd like to determine if a TV's black levels are up to scratch. Looking at how the Z1 performed with Batman Begins, there's little doubt about its faculty to deliver solid blacks. Subtle details, like the creases on the Dark Knight's mask or textural specifics on his Batmobile, were clearly visible onscreen as the Z1 managed to balance the tightrope between finer details and blacks. More importantly, visuals were crisp and clear. Color accuracy was truthful albeit a slightly warmer hue, and minimal judders were experienced; with or without enabling "Intelligent Frame Creation". Similar results were gathered from the Corpse Bride Blu-ray disc. One observation is that the display's contrast levels were visibly duller when we switched over to the THX preset. On the other hand, we don't advocate using the "Dynamic" setting since it has the potential to be a retina-burner under dimmer ambient conditions. 

For most modern displays, visual details are easily be lost if the panel and video processor aren't adequate enough in managing so-called "darker details". Panasonic's Z1 proves that it is still a maestro in producing the necessary intricacies without losing its panache for deeper blacks. Take note of the fabric and textures on Victoria Everglot's dress.

Vantage Point is a tricky BD title to playback since it has coughed up a number of judder issues with certain panels we've tested in the past. Thankfully, Panasonic's PDP didn't fall prey like the rest. Artifacts were less obvious, movements were fluid and natural enough, and the display managed to hold out its crispness even with the room lights on. Additionally, the TV exhibited a very generous viewing angle on the horizontal plane. Minimal color or contrast shifts were sighted, even at 70 degrees off the center axis.

Warm and true - skin tones and colors of the 1080 kind were faithfully produced on the VIERA with the panel's x.y Color scheme fixed at the "Auto" setting. Top marks for the NeoPDP's keen eye for finer details too as observed on the "Vantage Point" title.

Standard Definition Test

Scaling artifacts were unavoidable when we unleashed the Lord of the Rings DVD onto this 1080p screen. That aside, color tracking and motion handling were relatively clean as observed on this 480p feed. The VIERA's engine has the capacity to scale images of Mordor onto its 54-inch face without them looking like a replica of an 8-bit game, to say the least. On the other hand, the noise conundrum is significantly more pronounced on DVD playback, considering that the video processor has to execute a greater number of algorithms to suit its native 1080p display.

To mimic a progressive DVD player, we've set the Blu-ray player's output to pump out a lower resolution of 480p. Even so, the Z1 handled the SD source with great aplomb. Details were remarkably less intricate, of course, but nonetheless commendable for a HDTV tracking a DVD feed.

If we may touch a little on the Z1's audio muscle, remember to engage the VIERA's V-Audio ProSurround feature if you aren't relying on a grand sound system at home. They may require only 20 watts to drive, but the speakers' spatial and acoustic qualities are no less excellent. All in all, expect these tweeters and woofer to pack a punch, compared to most mainstream HDTVs. You can also set the speaker distance to the wall via the TV's Sound option.

 

Join HWZ's Telegram channel here and catch all the latest tech news!
8.5
  • HD Performance 9
  • SD Performance 9
  • Features 8
  • Value 7.5
The Good
Slim profile
Deep blacks
Vivid image quality
The Bad
Expensive
Poor noise reduction
Lacks WirelessHD
Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission.