New Panasonic TX-32LZD81

[admin_exported]

Hello!!

Here is a dilemma: Budget £800.

I need a new Lcd TV size 26'' or 32'' for a spare large bedroom. I would love to get the new Pana because of the built in Freesat tuner. I am a Sony fan and my question is: is the new Pana any good? Shall I stick with Sony and buy a Freesat receiver? or go for the award winning Samsung 26''?

Any help is Super welcome,

Thanks 74all

 

[Andy Clough]

We haven't yet tested the TX-32LZD81 with Freesat, but we do have a test of the TX-37LZD81 model coming up in our December issue, on sale November 13th.

Of the 32in models, we've tested the (non-Freesat) Panasonic TX-32LZD80 which is a very good set, but it was pipped to the post in this year's Awards by the Sony KDL-32W4000 which is even better.

However, the Freesat set-top boxes we've tested to date have got 4 stars at best (see here) and the choice is relatively limited, so if you do go down the route of buying a separate Freesat box to go with the Sony, I'd wait to see the new Humax Freesat+ PVR, which gives you the added benefit of a 320GB hard drive for recording.

 

[Anonymous]

Thank you. Can't wait for the next issue.

 

[Anonymous]

Hi 74all,

I have just been to view the following TVs at a local independant (and very abliging dealer) in Uttoxeter,

Sony KDL-40W4500,Sony KDL-32W4000,Panasonic TX-32LZD81 and Panasonic TX-37LZD81.

In the shop all the pictures were good and would surely be even better at home when set up to suit our own requirements.

We have opted for the bigger screens, it was difficult to separate the Sony and the Panasonic but if pushed would probably have chosen the Panasonic TX-37LZD81 in the shop setting.

However our dealer has kindly offered to bring both sets to our home and let us view them both in what will be their final positions.They will also bring the corresponding DVD/HDD recorders as well as the Sony DAVIS10 surround sound speakers.We spent a good 11/4 hrs in the shop and it was pleasing to hear all the dealers comments which coincide with those in What HI-FI.We have recently had a new aerial and freesat dish fitted.The picture on the panasonic was very good on the freesat setting.

We shall be taking advantage of our dealers offer to make a final decision but we at the moment we are inclined towards the Panasonic combination, it would be less expensive,include freesat,operate on one remote and would alleviate the need for a separate freesat box which would be necessary for the Sony combination.At the very least trying at home would save any possible disappointment.

Hope this helps.