Panasonic TC-P50U50 Review

50" 1080p HDTV

by Jack Burden, Reviewer

The U50 series is a low priced plasma television available in only one size, the 50" TC-P50U50. It is one of only two Panasonic plasma HDTVs that are not 3D ready in 2012. This is a budget model that does not include any online features or other picture processing features found in higher tier models.

Picture and Viewing Feaures

At 1080p the U50 has full HD resolution, though for a lot of programming this isn't really an issue. With cable and satellite, most programming is still 720p or 1080i and not 1080p. Most video games also have a native resolution no higher than 720p. But with Blu-Rays and other 1080p programming, the television will have no problem.

Standard definition programming still looks pretty good on this plasma television. It does a nice job of maintaining color rendition even with lower signals and the aspect ratio adjustments for proper sizing are also well done, Panasonic has always had a good scaling algorithm for stretching 4:3 content into 16:9. There are some motion artifacts to contend with, but overall this TV still delivers a sound picture.

Black Level And Contrast

Black levels and contrast on the TC-P50U50 are not as strong as the higher end plasma models but the black performance of this television is still excellent when compared to budget priced LCD and LED televisions.

Side Angle Viewing

Unlike LCD and LED televisions, ide angle viewing is not a concern with plasmas, the U50 retains its contrast and black performance at angle where you can still see the picture.

Sound Quality

Panasonic continues to do well with their onboard speaker systems, dialog is clear and sound is fuller than it is on many more expensive models.