Pioneer PDP436XDE |
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The Good
Impressive build quality, features, and superb colour.
The Bad
Only one HDMI, picture noise.
Design
Despite carrying similar design characteristics typically featured in most modern plasma displays, it's obvious the instant you unpack Pioneer's latest 436SXE that more care has been taken in the construction.
The heavily glossed black frame is flawlessly finished, rounded at the edges with a slimline speaker system integrated across the base. Even the rear panel is encased in a metal chassis.
Features
Screen size & shape: 43in 16:9 Tuner: Digital Sound system: Nicam Resolution: 1024x768 HD Ready: Yes Contrast Ratio: 3000:1 Brightness: 1100cd/m2 Weight: 39kg OTHER FEATURES: Pure Drive2 video-processing system SOCKETS: 1 HDMI input, 3 scart, component video input, S-Video, Component Video, Composite Video
Although all connection bases are covered you might expect a screen of this distinction to include more numerous options. The spacious rear panel does support three Scarts, two of which are RGB-enabled for the highest level of performance. We were surprised to find only a single set of component inputs though, and just one HDMI digital video input.
The stylish look of the Pioneer 436SXE is backed up with some impressive technology. At the forefront is Pioneer's unique Pure Black panel, which enhances colour discharge in plasma cells to create purer colours and incredible contrast using the deepest blacks. And contrast is encouraged again using a special filter in the screen that eliminates light reflections, even in bright rooms.
The Pure Drive2 video-processing system has won numerous plasma technology awards and uses several state-of-the-art digital processing and noise reduction systems to produce immaculately clean images.
All this technical innovation leaves many advanced settings to contend with, but the stunning menu system offers an easy escape route, using various preset modes. If you're a serious enthusiast, you can control every element of the picture using ProAdjust. Here you can access an abundance of image enhancements and noise direction systems, and fine tune every aspect of the picture. It may take a trained eye to discern the effects of all adjustments, but few screens offer such complete control. Incorporating more short cut keys, though, would be useful
Performance
The picture performance of the 436SXE shows just how far plasma screens have evolved in recent years. Whether you're watching TV broadcasts, analogue or digitally induced DVDs, the screen sets a new standard for image quality provided you are far enough away.
The deepest black levels create images with amazing depth and a sense of realistic perspective that at times feels like you're looking out a window. The detail in tones and textures is remarkable, with smooth gradations leaving little unresolved, even in dark scenes.
Every colour is accurately reproduced with excellent balance between superficial and natural shades. Digital disturbances, like background noise or motion streaming, are kept to an absolute minimum. In fact, the picture is so impressive you'll need to be extremely cynical to find any flaws at all.
Sound performance is just as impressive, especially as it's from a set of integrated speakers. There's enough detailed expression in the midrange to enliven everyday TV programmes while low frequencies carry ample weight and authority to supplement explosive film scenes.