Hitachi will be showing off its new plasma model 42PD8700 with the 42-inch ALIS H6 panel at IFA 2006 in a couple of weeks, which is the first to offer 1024 × 1080 high-definition resolution. Let’s take a sneak preview.
On the outside you may say it doesn’t look a whole lot different from existing Picture Master 9000 Series models, but it’s what’s “under the hood” that makes it exceptional. This one uses their latest generation ALIAS H6 panel, offering the highest definition for HDTV. We’ll be bringing you more of the details, some photos, and maybe even a Video Clip from IFA but we can imagine it will be similar to its “big brother” 42PD9700, which offers a brightness of 1300 cd/m2 and a contrast ratio of 4000:1, in addition to an integrated digital TV tuner iDTV, “Freeview”.
The 8000 Series incorporates “3DS” pseudo surround sound technology which gives a “Spatial” audio effect to soundtracks and makes movies, music and programmes much more impactful. Viewing options include a split picture mode, allowing an analogue and digital programme; a channel and digital input; or an image and text to be viewed simultaneously.
For those wanting to use their flatscreens for more than just watching TV, the 8000 range offers a broad range of connectivity options. This includes an HDMI port, two SCART sockets, S-video, composite and component video inputs and an audio out, allowing fast and easy connection to most digital devices including camcorders, digi-boxes, games consoles, DVD and Hard disk recorders or even a PC.
Priced very aggressively at 1400 £ in the UK, this should make it as the least expensive 1080 resolution plasma TV currently available, well starting September.
There will be a lot more to see on Hitachi’s mammoth 700 m² stand at IFA 2006.
“Our exhibit at IFA provides an excellent opportunity to display our latest technological advances in the consumer electronic field. The range of exhibits clearly demonstrates our long-standing success as a leading innovator in this market, whilst also clearly expressing our key brand message – Hitachi’s technology and know-how improves your life,” said Sir Stephen Gomersall, Chief Executive for Hitachi in Europe.
In the flatscreen line-up, in addition to showcasing the 42PD8700, Hitachi will also offering visitors to the show a “taste of the future” with a special preview of its 60-inch Plasma flatscreen TV with a 1920 × 1080 pixel display offering full HD resolution. Hitachi will also launch its 8000 Series, a range of fully featured ‘HD Ready’ integrated digital LCD and Plasma TVs. The Picture Master 9000 Series of 32 and 37-inch LCD and 42 and 55-inch plasma iDTVs demonstrate Hitachi’s flagship technology.
For more information on the 8000 Series, see their recent Press Release here.
For more details on all that will be on show at IFA, see their recent Press Release here.