LCD TV Reviews

Comparisons & Conclusion
The most comparable LCD TVs I've reviewed lately include the Westinghouse TX-52F480S ($2500), Sharp LC-52D85U ($2600), and Toshiba 52XV545U ($2600). All are smaller and more expensive than the Vizio.

The Westinghouse has excellent color and detail as well as a somewhat lower black level, but its motion detail is lacking due to its 60Hz refresh rate. The Sharp's black level and shadow detail are comparable to the Vizio's, its color is excellent, and its 120Hz frame interpolation is very mild-mannered, which means no visible artifacts, though it also means the motion detail is not as sharp as on the Vizio. The Toshiba offers a better black level, and its SRT upconversion technology offers the best standard-def performance of any of these sets, but its colors are not nearly as accurate.

Which would I choose? On balance, it would have to be the Vizio, though if I could afford $1200 more, I'd go for the Samsung LN52A750 with its much lower black level, better shadow detail, excellent processing, accurate colors, and USB and Ethernet connectivity options.

Still, at $2000, the VF550XVT offers the best bang for the buck I've seen in LCD TVs. If money is tight—as it is for most folks these days—it's a good deal worth serious consideration.

Highs
Beautiful colors
Excellent detail, at least on HD material
Frame interpolation works well for the most part
Video processing generally good
Very good off-axis performance

Lows
High black level
Poorly implemented menu system
Does not accept 1080p/24 from several players
Only one set of RGB calibration controls