Panasonic X30 review (42/50)
DVD:
Being a 720p native model, again these entry level models from Panasonic does wonders for DVD. Pictures are crisp with vibrant colors, and we did not see any pixel breaks or motion blurs during high speed scenes. Black level for now, remains solid and stable with no hints of contrast fluctuations. However, long term black stability is something we could never test with "showroom set" review environments.
Blu-Ray/NMT/High-Def:
True high definition materials really shine on High-def TVs, despite being a "mere 720p" plasma...The X30 dazzles with very well laid blu-ray pictures from a PS3. Colors are for the most part are accurate, with no bleeds and overly zealous reds (Yes, I'm looking straight at you Samsung plasma
). As usual, Panasonic plasma models do not have problems with motion handling, enabling the X30 to handle all sorts of high def movies with very little to no issues at all.
Console gaming:
Input response time has never been an issue with Panasonic and the X30 is no exception! You can play input sensitive games like Marvel vs Capcom 3 with pin point accuracy, and you don't have to worry about lags you'd usually get with slower TVs.
The downside:
After all those nice words for the X30, allow me to relay my gripe/s and I
do believe its a fair observation:
We did not or we hardly saw any difference between the X30 and the older X20The X30 is almost like an exact clone of the X20 in terms of picture quality! Making me say that the X30 is like an X20 in a new TV housing and a big "Boooooo" to Panasonic for not offering anything substantially new on their 720p entry level line.
Don't get me wrong,
the X30 is a very good looking and well performing plasma TV that beats most or nearly all entry level models along with their formats out there. But if you're like me, who tends to jump from one model year after year with great anticipation of change - You'll be disappointed!
-conclusion to follow-