Panasonic VIERA X1 720p LCD HDTV with Universal iPod Dock Review

Panasonic’s 720p VIERA X1 LCD series includes some models which come with an iPod Entertainment kit. The three screen sizes with this added feature are the 37 inch TC-L37X1, 32 inch TC-L32X1 and the 26 inch TC-L26X1. Two other larger display sizes, the 50 inch TC-P50X1 and 42 inch TC-P42X1 round out the series. Other headline X1 features include VIERA Image Viewer, VIERA Link, PC input and a Game mode.

Panasonic VIERA X1 720p LCD HDTV with Universal iPod Dock

The iPod Entertainment kit includes a specially designed, external Universal Dock for iPod. The dock gives users the facility to playback their iPod music and video collections on a much larger X1 series HD (720p) screen. The VIERA X1 provides special interface capabilities for users to manage content playback through simple on-screen display using only the VIERA’s remote control. With an iPod docked and VIERA Tools selected users are presented with a drop down menu displaying their music, videos or podcast options. The VIERA on-screen music menu mimics the iPod, allowing users to select a song from an artist, album or playlist. Similarly, the video and podcast features provide a list of available videos or podcasts.

The X1 has an 8ms response time which is a little behind the current market leading 4ms. However, if response time is a deciding factor then you should be looking at a plasma HDTV. There is a game mode to improve responsiveness for when using gaming consoles. Gamers will find it easier to match the 720p native resolution with the output resolution of their gaming console than Full HD. Matching these resolutions is primary to reducing any video lag when gaming.

The VIERA X1 has a dynamic contrast ratio of 12,000:1 which is higher than earlier model LCD HDTVs but not a market leading figure especially when compared to LED backlit LCD HDTVs. Connectivity conveniently includes 3 HDMI inputs. For simpler control of AV devices connected by HDMI with one remote, Panasonic have provided VIERA Link which is an implementation of the Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) standard.

Continuing the theme of allowing multimedia files from portable AV devices to be displayed/played on a large HDTV, the Panasonic X1 has the excellent inclusion of an SD card slot for a camera’s memory. My Dell monitor has a multi-card slot and USB inputs which have proved to be immensely useful. To enhance the playback experience, Panasonic have provided 3 types of background music and 4 display effects.