Product Listing

Panasonic 65-inch VT50S - A Very Tantalizing Plasma Display

By Andy Sim - 25 Sep 2012
Launch SRP: S$6499

SD, HD & 3D Tests

Standard-Definition Test


X-Men: The Last Stand (DVD)

Instances of jaggies were evident on moving objects. On the bright side, we did not detect excess "fuzz" (aliasing artifacts) and mosquito noise on this DVD title on the whole. Response time was excellent as well, for traces of ghosting were mostly absent. Visuals were a tad softer (not necessarily a bad thing) than Samsung's flagship E8000 PDP, although the Viera's black levels were deliciously deeper without succumbing to black crush issues. In other words, shadow detailing was superb. Panasonic's Intelligent Frame Creation feature (with a faster 2,500Hz Focused Field Drive) did help to reduce judder on moving images and scenes with fast camera pans. However, we'd advise you to disable this option if you prefer to watch a more natural, albeit less fluid motion processing onscreen. Overall, Panasonic's THX Cinema mode gave the X-Men film a warmer and more "organic" texture versus Samsung's sharper offering. Like most PDPs, the VT50S is susceptible to screen burn-in when images are paused or left onscreen for too long as well. However, we observed that its retention did not linger quite as long as its Samsung rival. And we reckon this might be due to Panasonic's built-in pixel orbiter feature which subtly offsets static images to prevent the phosphors from leaving a burnt trail.

This scene focuses on Storm (the X-Men character, not the weather). The photo image does not convey exactly what our eyes see, but the black levels and shadow detailing on Panasonic's VT50S are simply mind blowing in reality. Edges are less crisp than the E8000, but the up-converted DVD material is definitely watchable on the Viera.

 

High-Definition Test


Vantage Point (Blu-ray)

Some irregular movement (or judder) was detected during the disc's menu animation sequence. Thankfully, this wasn't repeated during the Blu-ray film itself. Panasonic's improved Focused Field Drive did help smooth out motion on the VT50S, although the unnatural motion (soap opera effect) was something we'd rather do without. Colors and contrasts were deeply satisfying in THX Cinema mode, with very natural textures and excellent levels of gradation rendered throughout the movie. Shadow detailing was superb as well. The VT50S does not feature automatic cadence detection, but it can be enabled via Film Cadence Detection found under the TV's Advanced Settings. For 24p sources, this set also supports 2:2 pulldown at 48Hz and 4:4 pulldown at 96Hz. The latter feature can be enabled via the "24p Smooth Film" option under the same menu. We did not notice any glaring errors during playback of the Blu-ray 24p content. In fact, motion resolution was greatly improved with Film Cadence Detection enabled. On the other hand, we'd rather do without the "over fluid" 24p Smooth Film selection. All in all, the Viera has the ability to deliver high-definition content with vivid results and refreshingly clear textures, and yet natural enough to simulate the feel of 'reel films' right on the 65-inch screen. For daytime viewing, the THX Bright Room preset is a better choice since the visuals are noticeably washed-out in bright daylight despite the panel's Infinite Black Ultra filter. As an afterthought, the previously mentioned "1080p Pure Direct" mode did not render any perceptible improvements in the TV's color detailing, although it's supposed to produce "colors that are highly faithful to the original" according to Panasonic.   

Panasonic states that the improved NeoPlasma panel is capable of 24,576 equivalent steps of gradation. We can't quantify or confirm that number, but the level of detail in the darker areas is observably better than Samsung's E8000. Skin tones are a touch warmer in THX Cinema mode.

 

3D High-Definition Test


Panasonic TY-ER3D4MA Active-Shutter 3D Glasses

Panasonic's latest TY-ER3D4MA eyewear is noticeably less clunky than previous offerings, like the TY-EW3D2MA bundled with last year's VT30S for example. However, there's good reason why the RF-based ER3D4MA is more compact in size - it's a non-rechargeable model, meaning that the USB charging circuitry used on EW3D2MA is not required here. The single button-cell is housed just above the nose pads, while the "slider" power switch is conveniently situated just above the ridge of the frame. You'll need a mini cross-tip screwdriver to pry open the battery cover by the way. The nose-pads are not interchangeable, which suggests you're stuck with these longish pads, like it or not, and they aren't very comfortable either. Although Panasonic's 3D glasses is fairly light on the whole, they are not made to be worn over prescription glasses like Samsung's SSG-4100GB for instance. You can try, but they don't sit very well. All in all, Panasonic's TY-ER3D4MA is a decent effort on Panasonic's part, but we won't go so far to say that it's the most practical and most comfortable active-shutter solution around.

There're hits and misses with Panasonic's active-shutter eyewear. While they are noticeably lighter and more compact than last year's model, the TY-ER3D4MA is unfortunately handicapped by its non-rechargeable limitations.

This view offers a better glimpse of its power switch, battery cover, and nose-pads. The nose-pads provide adequate support, but they weren't very comfortable when we tried them out.

Monsters vs Aliens (3D Blu-ray)

Before we begin, let us state that our findings with the VT50S' 3D performance was based on the TV's "THX 3D Cinema" mode. First impressions tells us that its default picture settings yields a relatively dim output with slightly warm tones, and you might want to increase the TV's contrast and brightness settings a notch since this "dimness" is also compounded by the darkening effect of the active-shutter glasses as well. Darker details (or shadow detail) may be lost if left uncorrected. However, changes aren't necessary if the room is almost devoid of any ambient light source. Overall, Panasonic's 3D performance was truly outstanding in every aspect compared to the rest of its PDP peers. Stereoscopic depth was perceptibly superior to Samsung's E8000, and there were little hints of crosstalk throughout the animated film. In addition, the 3D effect wasn't compromised at wider viewing angles either. Tucked under Advanced Settings are features such as "24p Smooth Film" and "3D Refresh Rates". Essentially, the former helps to "smoothen" 24p content with four available settings available - Off, Min, MId, and Max, while 3D Refresh Rates enables you to playback 3D materials at optional Auto, 100Hz, or 120Hz shutter rates. A slight amount of flicker was discernible with the "Auto" selection. However, there's no cause for worry as yet since this niggle can easily be resolved by selecting the 120Hz option instead. Although the VT50S is easily one of the best 3D PDPs out there, it is clearly not designed for daytime viewing or under fluorescent lighting. For these purposes, a passive 3D screen would probably suit you better.

 The VT50S lives up to Panasonic's Viera PDP legacy with its unparalleled 3D depths and contrasts. If subtle flickering is an issue, try enabling the 100Hz or 120Hz options under the TV's 3D Refresh Rates to resolve it.

Some of the default picture settings available under the THX 3D Cinema Mode. Colors are a touch warmer than usual, but little tweaks are required if you are finicky with the color details. Just keep in mind that this picture mode was tuned for dark viewing environments.

Join HWZ's Telegram channel here and catch all the latest tech news!
9.0
  • Design 9
  • 3D Performance 9.5
  • HD Performance 9.5
  • SD Performance 9
  • Features 8.5
  • Value 8.5
The Good
Elegant Design
Deep Blacks
Realistic HD and 3D Visuals
Accurate Colors
Excellent Motion Rendering
The Bad
Prone To Screen Burn-in
Average Noise Filters
Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission.