Difference between GT20 and VT20

[micks_address]

Hi Folks,

Looking at the specs for the GT20 and VT20, they both share the same contrast ratio

From VT20 specs http://panasonic.net/avc/viera/eu2010/product/vt20_plasma_spec.html

Infinite Black Pro (5,000,000:1 Native*)

From GT20 specs http://panasonic.net/avc/viera/eu2010/product/gt_plasma_spec.html

Infinite Black (5,000,000:1 Native*)

I thought the VT20 with the Pro filter would have better contrast ratio than the GT20? Apart from the Infinite Pro filter on the VT and the inclusion of 3d specs in the box along with the wi fi dongle - are there any other obvious advantages in going for the VT20 range? The 42VT20 comes with last years 3d specs - so i'm kinda tempted to go with the GT20, and add the newer type glasses when and if i want them. Has anyone seen a GT20 and VT20 side by side and been able to compare them? I know from an IFA video that the VT20 also has an extra woofer in the back but that makes no difference to me as i always listen through my own speakers anyway.

Cheers,

Mick

 

[Andy Madden]

Hi Mick,

we have a GT20 in the building, which we'll be reviewing in our Awards issue, with one of the VT models to follow shortly. Also, in the UK, the GT20 will come with 2 pairs of 3D glasses as standard - will need to double-check with regards the wireless dongle.

 

[Clare Newsome]

And don't get hung up, Mick, about stated TV contrast ratios - they are meaningless numbers with no industry standard behind them.

Hence Pioneer's cheeky statement that the Kuro's contrast ratio was "Extreme"

 

[micks_address]

Thanks Andy,

Would you be in a position to comment on the black level on the GT20 versus the V20? I currently have v20, and am going to change it for a GT20, or a VT20, but i am concerned that the GT20 wont have the same deep black levels that the V20 has. Are you sure the GT20 will come with glasses? I was pretty sure it wouldnt..

Can i also ask that when reviewing the GT20, that you check for floating blacks? Easiest way i can reproduce is to use 'The Matrix' blu-ray - play from 3 minutes 5 seconds onwards and seen if the black level of the screen remains consistent during the following 30 seconds or so..

Also if you could comment on any 'buzz' the GT20 has would be great. My v20 has quite a noticable buzz from it depending on the white content of whats displayed on screen.

Cheers,

Mick

Andy Madden:

Hi Mick,

we have a GT20 in the building, which we'll be reviewing in our Awards issue, with one of the VT models to follow shortly. Also, in the UK, the GT20 will come with 2 pairs of 3D glasses as standard - will need to double-check with regards the wireless dongle.

 

[micks_address]

Thaks Clare, I guess my main concern is that whatever i replace my V20 with, i want to maintain the same deep black level I have with it.

Clare Newsome:

And don't get hung up, Mick, about stated TV contrast ratios - they are meaningless numbers with no industry standard behind them.

Hence Pioneer's cheeky statement that the Kuro's contrast ratio was "Extreme"

 

[Clare Newsome]

IMO, moving to the GT20 - other than its 3D capability - would be a retrograde step, IF the GT20 has same performance as the G20; we found the V range to outperform its cheaper sibling. But i'll wait for our test results - things may have moved on for the GT20 since we tested the G20.

 

[micks_address]

Thanks Clare, I guess i will just need to be patient and wait for a 42VT20 to come into stock.. it could be another month though i guess.. whereas my retailer thinks he can get a GT20 as soon as next week

Clare Newsome:IMO, moving to the GT20 - other than its 3D capability - would be a retrograde step, IF the GT20 has same performance as the G20; we found the V range to outperform its cheaper sibling. But i'll wait for our test results - things may have moved on for the GT20 since we tested the G20.