The Panasonic 1080p plasma series is one of the most popular lines of plasma TVs on the market today. They come with increased contrast ratios for deep blacks and appealing shadow detail. In addition these Panasonic 1080p plasma models offer a smooth picture and vivid colors that will appeal to movie lovers, sports fans and HDTV viewers alike.
If you are in the market for a new plasma then you have probably looked at several models and may very well be confused by all of the different makes and models. I will try to break down the basic differences between models in the Panasonic 1080p plasma Viera series.
Lets take a look at the model numbers. A typical Panasonic Viera plasma model is TH-xxPZ80U. There are several things to look at in order to understand the model number.
1. TH-xxPZ80U - The xx will represent the size of the TV (for example 50PZ80U will be a 50" model). Sizes range from as small as 42 inches and go up to 65 inches in the top of the line model.
2. TH-xxPZ80U - The PZ indicates that this is a 1080p model. Panasonic does also offer a 720p model, but that would be indicated by a PX.
3. TH-xxPZ80U - This is where it starts to get even a bit more confusing. These indicate the individual attributes and feature sets of each model with a good 80U, better 85U, even better 800U, and best (at least until they come up with an even better model) 850U.
So lets dig in a little deeper and check out the attributes and features of the different models.
80U - This is the base model. Of course these will be the least expensive of the models and include all the basics that give the Panasonic 1080p plasma TVs such a great reputation. They come with a 20,000:1 contrast ratio, 2 speakers and 3 HDMI inputs.
85U - The next step up in the model lines adds additional contrast ratio taking it up to 30,000:1 and add an input for PC connection.
800U - The next step up makes several additions such as 24p support and an additional HDMI input as well as THX certification. Other considerations are the addition of 2 more speakers for a higher quality sound, although if you connect your TV through an audio video receiver then you more then likely will not even use your TVs speakers. The 800U models also come with a swivel base which may be beneficial to those who do not choose to wall mount their plasma.
850U - The 850U represents the top of the line model by adding additional shades of color gradation as well as pro setting menus and a studio reference mode.
Hopefully that gives a bit of clarity to the Panasonic 1080p plasma Viera series. There is sure to be a size and feature set that suits a wide range of budgets. So if you are looking at a new TV for the holiday season or for the digital changeover, a Panasonic plasma may be the right choice for you.
For more details and links to each of the models in this series check out the Panasonic 1080p plasma information page.
If you are considering an LCD HDTV as well check out the review of some of the best LCD flat panels.
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