Sony Plasma Television :: Is it a good TV?

Sony plasma television; the great debate about whether it is a good plasma continues. Even Sony, doesn’t seem to have full confidence in their plasma technology as they recently decided to begin a marketing and training campaign centered on the Grand WEGA LCD projection format. Although Sony manufacturers some of the electronics on its' plasma TV, other companies make the panel.

Should you buy a Sony Plasma of LCD Projection TV?

Currently Sony is debating within itself about whether they should focus their resources on Plasma or LCD projection TVs. Although Sony has found huge sales in the LCD Grand Wega style televisions, they may be missing the trend when it comes to Plasma. As the pricing drops and Plasmas get bigger, there are fewer reasons to purchase DLP or LCD projections.

Compare a Sony 42" Plasma vs a Sony 42" LCD PTV

42" Plasma WEGA HDTVKDE-42XS955

Featuring Sony’s third generation, fully digital WEGA Engine system and a beautiful 16:9 aspect ratio, the KDE-42XS955 produces picture resolution that is sure to impress.

- Full HDTV (built-in ATSC tuner for over-the-air HD reception)
- Sony re-engineered Plasma Panel Driver LSI
- Twin View Picture & Picture
- Enhanced Memory Stick Viewer
- HDMI/HDCP Interface

Sony's new KDE-42XS955 Plasma WEGA High Definition Television delivers amazing detail and clarity that will change the way you view television. Featuring the third generation fully digital WEGA Engine™ system and a beautiful 16:9 aspect ratio, the KDE-42XS955 produces picture resolution that is sure to impress. In addition to its ATSC Tuner, if features MID-X Multi Image Driver Circuitry for gorgeous picture in picture and CineMotion™ Reverse 3-2 Pulldown Technology allowing for enhanced customization. Its stylish semi-floating glass panel design allows you to adjust the screen angle to ensure you are always the center of attention. You can even listen to MP3 audio and view your photos with the built-in Memory Stick® Media slot.

• WEGA Engine : Delivers superb picture quality from any video source by minimizing the signal deterioration caused by digital-to-analog conversion and stabilizing the signal processing. The engine features unique Sony technology, including:
The first step in the digital processing system, Composite Component Processor2, which enhances input signal-to-noise ratio by chroma decoder digital processing.
Digital Reality Creation (DRC) Multifunction 2 Circuitry Enables the digital mapping of any NTSC source (DVD, VHS, DBS, Cable, etc.) to create a picture that is precise and finer in detail, rivaling high definition resolution. Incoming HD signals (1080i) are also bitmapped, utilizing Sony’s proprietary algorithm to provide a crisp and clear picture.
IFP (Image Format Processor) The Digital Texture Enhancer function of this chip provides the optimal contrast by utilizing a wide dynamic range. This chip also reduces signal noise by using an improved motion vector algorithm, while maintaining image sharpness.
New Panel Driver LSI This drive provides a more realistic color expression by improving the color space of the original signal and color gradation.
• ATSC Integrated Tuner allows the reception of local, off-air digital broadcasts providing the viewing of free, true high-definition network programming without the addition of a set top box or a monthly fee.
• CableCARD Slot provides cable subscribers with access to digitally encrypted cable channels – without the need for a set-top box – that will enable you to receive not only standard definition but also high definition television. The CableCARD, which is provided by your cable TV provider, is inserted into the TV’s rear panel CableCARD slot. After the service is activated with your cable TV company, the card replaces the need for a separate set-top box.
• Multi Image Driver (MID X), when used with Sony's Twin-View 2 Tuner Picture-in-Picture, lets you watch 2 full motion pictures side by side. Together, Twin View tuner and Sony's proprietary Multi Image Driver X circuitry allows you to view analog along side of HDTV at the same time on the same screen. Also, with MID X both picture images are improved to 480 progressive image quality.
• Twin View Using Multi-Image Driver (MID-X), Twin View allows you to watch two programs side by side with the ability to zoom in on one picture and listen to the program in the selected window. You can watch pictures from two different sources (1080i, 720p, 480p, or 480i) simultaneously.
• Wide Screen Mode allows you to watch 4:3 normal broadcasts in wide screen mode (16:9 aspect ratio).
• Favorite Channels allows you to preview and select from up to sixteen of your favorite channels.
• CineMotion using the reverse 3-2 pull down technology, the Cinemotion feature provides smoother picture movement when playing back movies or other video sources on film.
• BN Smoother reduces the block noise caused by the digital video encoding and decoding process.
• Steady Sound equalizes volume levels so there is consistent output between programs and commercials.
• Parental Control (V-Chip) allows parents to block unsuitable programming from younger viewers.
• Memory Stick Enhanced Viewer allows you to view digital photos (JPEG) and movies (MPEG1) and mix in MP3 music from your Memory Stick media on your television.
• Dual Component Video Inputs achieve greater color accuracy than composite and S-Video when connecting to compatible devices (DVD players, VCRs, etc.).
• S-master Full Digital Amplifier delivers superb clear dialog and reproduces the original sound quality while minimizing any sound fragmentation or jitter noise.
• Built-in Speakers combines 2 (25W) full range speakers with a subwoofer (50W) to deliver dynamic sound.
• Center Channel Input By connecting the center channel outputs from an A/V receiver with the center channel input of the TV, you can use the stereo speakers as a center speaker.
• Optical Dolby Digital Output
• HDMI Interface (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) provides an uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface between the TV and any HDMI-equipped audio/video component, such as a set-top box, DVD player, and A/V receiver. HDMI supports enhanced, or high-definition video, plus multi-channel digital audio.
• Warranty 1 Year Parts and Labor
• Step-Up Features Are Highlighted in Orange
Specifications • General
• Power Requirements: AC120V, 60Hz
• Inputs and Outputs
• HDMI Connection: Rear x 1
• 1 Control S Input: Rear x1 1 Control S Output: Rear x1
• Audio Output: (Variable and Fixed) x 1
Audio
• Center Channel Input
• TruSurround Sound SRS 3D Audio Effect
• Speaker Output: 2 way side speaker system
• Energy Star Compliant
• Enhanced Memory Stick Media Playback
• TruSurround SRS Audio Processing
• All in One Design for Plasma WEGA TVs
• Speaker Output: 25W x 2 + 50W Subwoofer
• Video
• HDTV Monitor
• Built-in NTSC TV Tuner
• Built-in Stereo Speakers
• WEGA Engine System
• CineMotion Reverse 3-2 PullDown Technology
• DRC MultiFunction Circuitry
• Multi-Image Drive (MID X) Circuitry
• Input Signals: 480i, 480p, 1080i, 720p
• Color Temperature Adjustment : (5000 - 7500K)
• 1 Tuner Picture In Picture
• Auto Wide/Wide Screen Modes
• Multiple Language (3) On- Screen Display (English, French and Spanish)
• Auto Channel Program
• Caption Vision (CC)
• Channel Skip/Add
• Clock/Timer (Two Event)
• Favorite Channel Preview
• Program Palette presets
• Sleep Timer
• V Chip Parental Control
• Flexible Twin View Picture and Picture
• Resolution: 1024 pixels (h) x 1024 pixels (v)
• Weight
• 124 lbs. 9oz. (56.5kg)
• Dimensions (WxHxD)
• 44 7/8 x 29 5/8 x 14 1/4" (1139 x 752 x 360 mm)
• Supplied Accessories
• Instruction Manual
• Quick Setup Guide
• Cosmetic Design Remote Control (RM-Y1004)
• AA Batteries (2)
• Cleaning Cloth
• Optional Accessories
• Floating Glass Stand: (SU-PF3)
• Wall Bracket: (SU-PW3)

Floating Floor StandSU-PF3M
Floating Floor Stand for the KDE-37XS955 and KDE-42XS955
Stand for KDE-37XS955 and KDE-42XS955
Chic Design
Floating Floor Stand
Created especially for the KDE-37XS955 and KDE-42XS955, the SU-PF3M floating floor stand is a great display option for your Flat Panel TV.
• Floating Floor Stand for the KDE-37XS955 and KDE-42XS955
Specifications • Dimensions (W x H x D)
• 38 1/2" x 43 5/8" x 19 1/8" (975mm x 1105mm x 500mm) includes base
• Weight
• 70 lbs. 8 oz. (32 kg)

Wall Mounting BracketSU-PW3M
Wall mount bracket for KDE-37XS955, KDE-42XS955 and KDE-50XS955
Provides a secure mount for your Sony television
Space saving design
Created especially for the KDE-37XS955, KDE-42XS955 and KDE-50XS955, the SU-PW3M Wall Mounting Bracket is a great display option for your Flat Panel TV.
• Wall Mounting Bracket for the KDE-37XS955, KDE-42XS955 and KDE-


42" Grand WEGA 3LCD Rear Projection HDTVKDF-E42A10
Features a new design with a thin dark black bezel, a compact body and barely visible speakers located at the bottom of the set.
- Full HDTV (built-in ATSC tuner for over-the-air HD reception)
- Digital Cable Ready with CableCARD Slot
- 16:9 Widescreen TV with PC Input
- WEGA GATE Easy Operation Guide
- HDMI1 HDCP Interface
Enhance your home entertainment experience with the KDF-E42A10 Grand WEGA™ 3LCD Rear Projection HDTV. The KDF-E42A10 features a new design with a thin dark black bezel, a compact body and barely visible speakers located at the bottom of the set. This television also features high-definition picture quality and delivers natural color reproduction and exceptional brightness levels due to 3LCD technology. Additional features include the Sony WEGA Engine system to deliver detailed picture quality from any compatible video source by minimizing the digital-to-analog conversion process and the WEGA GATE Easy Operation Guide, which allows you to easily navigate to TV functions, including favorite channels, TV channel list and external input list or settings.
• WEGA Engine System Delivers superb picture quality from any video source by minimizing the signal deterioration caused by digital-to-analog conversion and stabilizing the signal processing. The engine features unique Sony technology, including: The first step in the digital processing system, Composite Component Processor2, which enhances input signal-to-noise ratio by chroma decoder digital processing.
• Digital Reality Creation (DRC) Multifunction Technology Unlike conventional line doublers, the DRC Multifunction feature replaces the signal's NTSC waveform with the HD equivalent, while doubling the number of vertical and horizontal lines. This results in four times the density for quality sources, such as DVD, satellite and digital camcorders. The Video Menu allows you to select interlaced, progressive or CineMotion output.
• 3LCD technology is a video projection system that uses three LCD panels to produce an image. There are three key advantages of 3LCD televisions: A Brighter Picture even in well-lit rooms; Natural Colors are displayed with intense vibrancy; High Detail for spectacular HD performance.
• PC Input allows you to connect your PC and display the PC screen on your TV.
• WEGA GATE Easy Operation Guide is a new feature that allows you to easily navigate to the most convenient TV functions: favorite channels, TV channel list, external input list or settings.
• Integrated HDTV You can watch digital television programs and enjoy the improved audio/video quality offered by these programs.
• Wide Screen Mode allows you to watch 4:3 normal broadcasts in wide screen mode (16:9 aspect ratio).
• ATSC Integrated Tuner allows the reception of local, off-air digital broadcasts providing the viewing of free, true high-definition network programming without the addition of a set top box or a monthly fee.
• CableCARD Slot provides cable subscribers with access to digitally encrypted cable channels - without the need for a set-top box - that will enable you to receive not only standard definition but also high definition television. The CableCARD card which is provided by your cable TV provider, is inserted into the TV’s rear panel CableCARD slot. After the service is activated with your cable TV company, the card replaces the need for a separate set-top box.
• Dolby Digital Technology
• SRS TruSurround XT technology equipped
• HDMI 1 Interface (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) provides an uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface between the TV and any HDMI-equipped audio/video component, such as a set-top box, DVD player, and A/V receiver. HDMI technology supports enhanced, or high-definition video, plus multi-channel digital audio.
• Component Video Inputs offer the best video quality for DVD (480p, 480i) and digital set-top box (1080i, 720p, 480p, 480i) connections.
• S-Video Inputs provide a high-quality image from connected equipment.
• CineMotion technology using the reverse 3-2 pull down technology, the Cinemotion feature provides smoother picture movement when playing back movies or other video sources on film.
• Steady Sound feature equalizes volume levels so there is consistent output between programs and commercials.
• Favorite Channels allows you to preview and select from up to sixteen of your favorite channels.
• Parental Control (V-Chip) allows parents to block unsuitable programming from younger viewers.
• Warranty 1 Year Parts and Labor
Specifications • Video
• Panel Type: LCD 0.73" (1280 x 720)
• Aspect Ratio: 16:9
• Tuner: Terrestrial (VHF/UHF/CATV)
• Tuner: ATSC
• Tuner: 8VSB
• Tuner: Clear QAM
• Tuner: POD QAM
• Video Signal System: NTSC
• Advanced Video Processing: WEGA Engine feature
• Advanced Video Processing: DRC-MF V1
• Video Signal System: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i
• Picture Modes: Vivid, Standard and Custom
• Picture Adjustment: Picture, Brightness, Color, Hue, Sharpness
• Picture Modes: Color Temp (Warm 1, Warm 2, Neutral, and Cool)
• Processing: Noise Reduction
• Video Function: Game Picture (On/Off)
• Video Processing: DRC Mode (High Density/Progressive/Off)
• DRC Palette: (Custom 1, Custom 2, Custom 3)
• Advanced Video Processing: Cinema Black Pro - Iris & Advanced Iris (High/Medium/Low/Off)
• Advanced Menu Function: Live Color ((High/Medium/Low/Off)
• Advanced Menu Function: Clear White (High/Low/Off)
• Advanced Menu Function: Black Corrector (High/Medium/Low/Off)
• Advanced Menu Function: Gamma (Max/High/Medium/Low/Off)
• Screen Setting: Wide Mode (Wide Zoom/Normal/Full/Zoom)
• Video Function: Freeze
• Video Function: Favorite Channel
• Video Function: Channel Label
• Video Function: Channel Skip/Add
• Video Function: Video Label
• Video Function: Channel Jump
• Video Function: Channel Surf
• Video Function: Parental Lock
• Video Function: Closed Caption
• Video Function: V Chip Parental Control
• Video Function: ID-1
• Video Function: Initial Setup
• Video Function: Caption Vision (On/Off/Program)
• Audio
• Sound Function: SteadySound feature
• Sound Mode: TruSurround XT Audio
• Sound Equalization: Treble and Bass
• Sound Mode: BBE Digital
• Sound Mode: Simulated
• Sound Mode: Auto SAP/MTS
• Speaker On/Off: Speaker Off
• Sound Mode: Volume Offset
• Sound Mode: A/V Sync (Off/1/2/3)
• Sound Mode: (Dynamic, Standard, and Custom)
• Power
• Output Power: 12w x 12w
• Power Requirements: 120V 60Hz
• Power Consumption: In Use: 210 Watts Standby: Less than 17 Watts
• Inputs and Outputs
• Input(s): PC Input (D-sub 15) + Audio Input (Stereo Mini) 1 (1 Front 1 / 0 Rear)
• Input(s): HDMI + Audio L&R 1 ( 1 Rear) connector
• Component Video (Y/Pb/Pr ) Input(s): 3 (1 Front / 2 Rear)
• S-Video Input(s): 1 (1 Rear)
• Composite Video Input(s): 3 (1 Front / 2 Rear)
• Input(s): RF 75-ohm F-type 1 (1 Rear)
• Input(s): Cable 75-ohm F-type (1 (1 Rear)
• Input(s): CableCARD PCMCIA-type 1 (1 Rear) slot
• Input(s): Total Audio Input (LR, RCA-pin) excluding HDMI 5 (1 Front / 4 Rear)
• Digital Audio Output(s): (Optical) 1 (0 Front / 1 Rear)
• Headphone Output(s): 1 (1 Front / 0 Rear)
• Audio Output: Audio Output (Variable/Fixed) 1 (1 Rear)
• Convenience
• WEGA GATE™: Easy Operation Guide
• On Screen Controls: English/Spanish/French
• Sleep Timer
• Clock/Timer (Two Event)
• Weight
• 61lbs. 12oz (28kg)
• Dimensions (WxHxD)
• 39 3/8"×28 1/2"×14 1/8" (999×722×357mm)
• Supplied Accessories
• RM-YD003
• AA (R6) Batteries
• Operating Instructions
• Quick Setup Guide
• Warranty Card
• Product Registration Card
A/V StandSU-RG11S
Sony's SU-RG11S A/V stand was created especially for your KDF-E42A10 Grand WEGA™ 3LCD Rear Projection HDTV.
Designed to match the KDF-E42A10
Featuring shelves for your audio/video equipment
Sleek design
Sony's SU-RG11S TV stand was created to perfectly compliment your KDF-E42A10 Grand WEGA™ 3LCD Rear Projection HDTV. This stand has all the storage space you need for additional audio and video equipment. Its smart and sleek design adds style and good looks to your home decor.
• Designed to match the KDF-E42A10.
Specifications • Dimensions (WxHxD)
• 35 5/8" x 28 1/8" x 18 1/8" (901 x 711 x 460 mm)
• Weight
• 65 lbs. 1 oz. (29.5 kg)
Replacement Lamp for the KDF-E42A10 and KDF-E50A10 Grand WEGA 3LCD Rear Projection HDTVXL-2400
Replacement lamp for the KDF-E42A10 and KDF-E50A10 Grand WEGA 3LCD Rear Projection HDTV
Sony's XL-2400 replacement lamp is designed to replace the original lamp of your KDF-E42A10 and KDF-E50A10 Grand WEGA 3LCD Rear Projection HDTV.
• Designed to work with your KDF-E42A10 and KDF-E50A10 Grand WEGA™ 3LCD Rear Projection HDTV.
Specifications • Dimensions (WxHxD)
• 3 1/4" x 3 1/4" x 6 7/8"
• Weight
• 9.17 oz.

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