Panasonic Viera TX-P42VT30B review

For this review we tested the 42in model in the VT30 range, but it’s also available in 50in (TX-P50VT30B), 55in (TX-P55VT30B) and 65in (TX-P65VT30B) screen sizes. All models have identical specifications except for their dimensions and power usage. We’re confident that image quality will be practically identical across the range.

A lot of high-end TVs have an endless number of features that clearly differentiate them from the lower-priced competition, but it’s rarer to find one that places picture quality at the top of the list. Panasonic’s VT30 plasma 3DTV breaks this pattern, as it has been designed solely with cinemaphiles in mind.

Much like the similar GT30 range, this TV supports THX certified video modes for both 2D and 3D content, so you can be sure you’re seeing movies exactly how the director intended. The VT30 goes one step further, however, as it includes a service port on the back of the set that can be used by an ISF-certified technician to calibrate the TV automatically (prices start at £250 exc. VAT). This allows for even greater levels of control, making this the ideal TV for anyone considering their own dedicated home cinema room.

This 42in model is the smallest version of the VT30 Panasonic currently produces. Larger 50, 55 and 65 inch behemoths are also available, albeit at much higher prices. Regardless of screen size, each model has a fantastic edge-to-edge glass bezel that looks great either free-standing or mounted on a wall.

As we’ve come to expect from Panasonic, there’s a wide array of ports on the back. As well as four HDMI ports, component and composite video inputs, digital and analogue audio outputs, three USB ports and an SD card reader provide plenty of ways to connect a memory stick to play multimedia files. All the major file formats are supported, including DivX HD. You can also use one of the three USB ports to attach an external hard disk and turn the TV into a single tuner PVR, which is great if you don’t already have a dedicated set-top box. Freeview HD and Freesat tuners are built in.

Although there is an Ethernet port, you don’t have to worry about running a network cable to the TV since Wi-Fi is built in. You’ll be able to stream content from any DLNA compatible devices or access Viera Connect internet TV services straight away. All the usual suspects are present, including YouTube video streaming, social networking courtesy of Facebook and Twitter, and catch-up TV from BBC iPlayer.

Menus were responsive and easy to navigate thanks to a sensible layout on both the TV interface and the remote control. Unfortunately, there’s no audio or video thumbnail in the EPG – something we hope Panasonic will address in its 2012 models, or even via a firmware update.

Picture quality is make or break with a high-end TV, but the VT30 is unquestionably fantastic when it comes to HD content. Standard definition Freeview channels were distinctly average, even on some of the higher-quality channels, but the BBC HD channel looked incredibly crisp and vibrant. Blu-ray content looked equally superb, with Casino Royale’s action scenes looking incredibly fluid thanks to a 600Hz panel and Panasonic’s motion smoothing technology.

Contrast and colours were excellent, just as we’ve come to expect from Viera models with Neo PDP plasma panels. 3D video looked great, although using active shutter glasses does have the side effect of reducing brightness, regardless of screen settings. Importantly, the VT30 is Panasonic’s only 2011 TV that comes with a pair of 3D glasses in the box (excluding limited promotions and other deals) so you won’t need to splash out any more to watch programmes in 3D, assuming you have no friends.

Even though it has everything we would hope to see in a high-end TV, it’s still difficult to recommend the VT30 in light of its cheaper sibling. Although the Viera GT30 range lacks Wi-Fi and the VT30’s subwoofer, it’s as good in almost every other way, yet costs around £300 less.