New Hitachi ‘feature-rich’ Plasma & LCD range delivers high quality viewing at a competitive price
Hitachi is hotting up competition in the flatscreen TV market with the launch of its 8000 Series ‘HD Ready’ iDTVs – a new range of competitively priced products that will make high quality flatscreens more accessible to a greater number of consumers.
The range includes the 42PD8700, which incorporates Hitachi’s world class ALIS 1080 Plasma panel for optimal viewing of HD images in 1024 × 1080 pixels. A major step shift in viewing quality, this delivers perfect high definition digital images and greatly improves traditional analogue ones.
More choice, higher quality, better value
“We aim to extend the choice available to both first-time flatscreen buyers and also discerning consumers seeking to upgrade to a large format solution that offers real added value.” explains Richard Bass, senior manager, Display Products for Hitachi Digital Media Group.
“The inclusion of our flagship ALIS Plasma panel within the range is testament to our ‘no-compromise’ approach to this highly competitive segment. By providing world leading technology at an affordable price point, we will make quality viewing more readily accessible to a larger audience and raise market expectation as a whole.”
The 8000 Series includes:
42PD8700 A 42-inch Plasma iDTV that features Hitachi’s world class ALIS 1080 panel for optimal viewing of HD images in unadulterated 1024 × 1080 pixel resolution. Ideal for quality conscious consumers seeking a very large format screen and a superior image – and who want to ensure the best performance possible in low light conditions.
37LD8700 This 37-inch model uses Hitachi’s IPS LCD technology to provide enhanced image quality and wider viewing angles.
32LD8700 With a 32-inch, 82cm visible screen, this option delivers versatile viewing, ideally suited for smaller rooms and for watching day-time TV as well as movies and games.
Feature-rich today & tomorrow
To access the free digital programmes currently rolling out across Europe, the ‘8700’ models incorporate an integrated digital tuner (iDTV). For those countries where there is no Digital Terrestrial service, an analogue version, the 42PD8600, is available – this incorporates the same outstanding quality 42-inch 1080 ALIS Plasma panel as the 42PD8700.
All LCD models are ‘HD ready’ while the Plasma models are true ‘HD’, to take full advantage of high definition broadcasts, DVDs and next generation computer games. With these sets, you can watch HD content in glorious high definition without missing the detail – fantastic for sports, drama and nature shows.
“With over 50 years of expertise in developing the best TV technology, Hitachi knows what consumers want from their screens,” states Bass. “Today, the emphasis is on large screen-size but small footprint, digital features that are easy to use, and image quality that makes a substantial difference. With our 8000 range, they can have all of this, whatever their budget, backed by the peace of mind which comes from purchasing a leading flat panel brand using the best technology available.”
Design & Functionality
The new models incorporate a similar ‘look’ to Hitachi’s flagship Picture Master 9000 Series. The LCD versions have speakers which are cleverly housed along the bottom of the screen, leaving the whole TV width available for image viewing, saving on valuable floor space. For convenient positioning, each set comes with a fixed base as standard or, alternatively, they can be wall mounted depending on personal preference.
To add to the viewing experience, the 8000 Series incorporates ‘3DS’ pseudo surround sound 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.
Availability
The Hitachi 8000 Series will be available across Europe from July 2006.
*In France, Germany, Spain and UK