panasonic viera g1 series tc l37g1 37 inch lcd tv display panel
panasonic viera g1 series tc l37g1 37 inch lcd tv wii
I bought this Panasonic TC-L37G1 after researching many manufacturers and models.
Opening the Box.
It was easy to get everything working since I used a flat, clean, stable, non-abrasive surface. Just lay the TV on it and attach the stand. There is information on appropriate wall mounts that will fit the TV for easy mounting.
Setup.
There are just a few minor complaints. It takes longer to do automatic channel pickup than other digital TVs.
My friend has an Insignia. His set ignored digital channels it could not receive (encrypted, cable box only). This Sony VIERA G1 added them to the list. The problem is if you try to watch the channel, it says it won’t display. This could leave you with a lot of channels you can’t watch clogging your lineup.
There is no CableCard slot. You have to settle for over-the-air HD, unencrypted cable HD (usually only broadcast channels), or you have to get a cable box. This isn’t a big issue since this TV has 4 HD inputs.
Picture Quality.
In one word, it is amazing! The color is stunning. Picture ghosting is nonexistent. HD material is a marvel to watch. In particular, Blu-Ray looks very impressive with this 120HZ panel.
You really need to see the 120Hz in person. To me, it is spectacular. However, some may not like it. You CAN disable 120Hz. But, if you do, I think the price isn’t worth it (vs. Panasonic’s other series).
Inputs.
There are 3 HDMI outputs. 2 are in back and 1 on the side. The side input is great for camcorders, media players, and other HDMI-ready devices.
Side Inputs.
The side inputs include standard definition inputs (S-Video, RCA Yellow/Red/White) with a headphone jack. The headphone jack disables the speakers automatically when a device is plugged in. It is convenient for sporadic use.
For a set of wireless headphones, you need to plug it in whenever you use them. In these cases, earlier model Panasonic HDTVs had a seperate left/right audio out. I didn’t check before purchase and am disappointed by the removal.
Back Inputs.
In back are 2 HDMI inputs, an S-Video/RCA combo, a component video input with RCA L/R, and a VGA input with RCA left/right audio inputs.
While this Panasonic is a 1080P HDTV, it will NOT ACCEPT 1080P USING COMPONENT. This is made clear in the owner’s manual, but not the product materials. Newer TVs commonly support 1080P over component, just not this Panasonic VIERA G1. It’s not too bad, since most devices don’t support 1080P over component anyway. As an older Xbox 360 gamer, there is no HDMI for me. That is kind of disappointing.
Outputs.
There is the headphone jack. You get an optical out jack for 5.1 surround sound out from the TV. I don’t know if audio from HDMI, etc. passes along, or only cable/broadcast TV. So, you may want to check on this.
Sound.
The built in speakers are okay. To me, they are for a wall mount, since the speakers face down. On a stand, this really doesn’t project the sound. However, it makes the TV front look nice and clean.Volume control varies from 0 to 100.
While not the loudest speakers, it still disturbs the neighbors, if you want. The sound isn’t tinny. It just isn’t the clearest, at least on a stand. I don’t know what they sound like from a wall mount.
Other Notes.
The stickers leave no residue if you want to remove them.
Each input can have a label with preset names (e.x. Cable, Game) or custom (eg. PS3, Xbox). If you don’t have a universal remote, this is GREAT! The inputs are less confusing.
The TV is in the Harmony database and everything is well timed and works smoothly (on/off, volume, channel changing, input changes, etc.). There are no HDMI handshaking issues, unlike other HDTVs (no video disruption, video but no sound, etc.).
Remote.
The remote is decent. It is not the best. However, it is very usable with large print buttons. Too bad it does not glow in the dark. It is also not backlit.
Should You Buy It?
I have a couple (minor) complaints. Yet, I am very happy with my Panasonic VIERA G1 TC-L37G1 37-inch LCD TV and can definitely recommend it.
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