Philips LCD TV – a Guide to Popular Models

Philips calls both its plasma and LCD lineups “flat TV,” so if you’re shopping for a Philips LCD TV, keep that in mind. Philips frequently uses the similar model numbers for both plasma and LCD TVs, so it’s easy to get confused. (They also use similar styling, making it even easier to be confused.) Make sure you check each model you’re looking at to be sure it’s a Philips LCD TV.

Most of Philip’s high-end LCD TVs use their “Ambilight” technology. This unique feature consists of a pair of fluorescent lights mounted on either side of the back of the panel, which are designed to reflect off the wall behind the panel. Many consumers like the Ambilight technology; others don’t. The only way to know if a Philips Ambilight LCD TV is right for you is to see one in person.

Let’s take a look at some of Philip’s more popular LCD TV models.

Philips 32PF5320 LCD TV: This LCD TV is Philips's entry-level 32-inch flat-panel LCD TV. It has a resolution of 1,366 x 768, so it should be able to display every detail of 720p input. It does not have a built-in ATSC tuner or a CableCard slot, so it requires external equipment to handle over-the-air HDTV or digital cable. Its connectivity includes one HDMI input, one component-video input, and a VGA-style PC input. The 32-inch Philips 32PF5320 LCD TV retails for prices starting at $1,300.

The Philips PF7320A LCD TV series is a step up from the Philips 32PF5320 LCD TV. The two panels in this series have a native resolution of 1,366 768, so it also should be able to display every detail of 720p input. This series features a built-in ATSC tuner and a CableCard slot, so no external equipment is needed to receive over-the-air HDTV or digital cable. Connectivity includes two HDMI inputs, two component-video inputs, and a USB input. The 32-inch Philips 32PF7320A LCD TV retails for prices starting at $1,500 and the 37-inch Philips 37PF7320A LCD TV retails for prices starting at $2,100.

The Philips 42PF9730A LCD is a higher-end model compared to the Philips PF7320A LCD TV series, and although it is mostly similar, there are some important setup features. First off, it's larger than either of the other two, measuring 42 inches. The 42PF9730A is also the least expensive LCD in the Philips product line to feature Ambilight technology. Another upgrade feature is Pixel Plus 2HD, which is additional video processing that is designed to enhance the picture quality. Connectivity includes with two USB ports and a memory-card reader. The 42-inch Philips 42PF9730A LCD TV retails for prices starting at $2,800.

A final step up from the Philips 42PF9730A LCD TV, the Philips 42PF9830A LCD TV is Philips's flagship, top of the line flat panel LCD set. It is similar to the Philips 42PF9730A LCD TV, but there are several upgrades. The Philips 42PF9830A LCD features a power swivel stand as well as a second-generation version of Ambilight called Ambilight 2, which offers more control over the lighting effect and allows the left and right backlights to react independently to colors on the screen. Connection options on the Philips 42PF9830A LCD TV are many: two HDMI inputs, two component-video inputs and a second set of A/V inputs with S-Video. A CableCard slot is also on board. A coaxial digital audio output, a set of monitor A/V outputs with composite video only, and an RF input round out the rear jack panel. In addition, a headphone jack and a set of A/V inputs with S-Video are all located behind the left speaker on the side of the panel. Retail prices start around $3,200.

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