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LG 32LK530 Review

32" LG LCD TV

Picture and Viewing Features

Everyone is on the the latest and greatest 3D TVs and LED TVs, but dont underestimate some of these excellent little LCD TVs for delivering the best value (along with plasma) in the marketplace. From past reviews and viewing at CES we know that this TV has a strong picture performance.

We've advised users in the past to turn off the 120/240Hz feature when watching film and broadcast based video content, and our sentiments remain the same. It introduces too many unnatural artifacts. After doing so however there are some very nice picture attributes to this TV including good black levels, natural beautiful colors, and plenty of dark shadow detail.

The picture is not as bright as an LED (thank goodness) that's cranked way up in contrast, but provides plenty for 99% of content.

One recent past LG LCD TV received an 93.5 picture rating and editors choice award from us. The picture on some of these LCDs is usually more consistent and uniform with even higher end LED TVs. And for the price they become very compelling offerings as they are cheaper to produce than newer LED backed LCD TVs.

Appearance

TVs are becoming somewhat ubiquitous in appearance. There are a few standouts but this 42LK530 will not be one of them. Count on stable good looks but nothing spectacular.*

Internet Applications and Connectivity

LG is renaming its Internet Apps this year from "Netcast Entertainment" to "SmartTV." The LK530 is the only series traditional CFL LCD TV that will contain the new Internet Apps feature at this point. There is a simple dashboard contained on the TV menu screen allowing for selection of TV Live, Premium Content, TV Apps, and a Launch Bar. The LG 32LK530 series has LGs new Smart TV Internet TV features meaning that will be able to access all of LG's Internet Apps. Some of the highlighted Internet TV providers are Netflix, Vudu, Cinema Now, You Tube, Hulu Plus. But in addition this year it looks like there will be several partners in the sports industry to stream live sports programming, allowing viewers to follow their favorite teams, stream in HD quality broadcasts, and generally be able to tailor their sports viewing more to their own preferences. More options equal more satisfaction right?

Standout Features

LG's new SmartTV feature looks promising in the 32LK530. It contains a web browser so that users can access the Internet directly through the TV. The browser is not the Google TV chrome browser you have probably read about. This is a web kit browser, but still I like having access to the Internet.

Another new feature is for the 32LK530 is the ability to share information from a PC or Laptop via the wireless Smart Share system. Wireless is the key operative here, making displaying information from your Laptop so much easier.

Another innovative feature this year is the motion controlled "Mobile Remote". This new remote feature offers a motion controlled cursor which follows hand movement. Once the cursor is on the wanted selection click the remote to select that option. It's a convenient point and click system.

There is no keyboard needed for the system, but there is a QWERTY keyboard option available for download to iPhones or Android application smart phones. Basically, the LK530 series LCD TV has it all in new operational features.

Connections

3 included HDMI inputs should be plenty. LG Simplink for other LG devices. 1 Component video input should be sufficient for your favorite older DVD player. USB 2.0 for access to digital music and photos (MP3, JPEG)

Value

This LG 32LK550 LCD TV does not offer 3D TV compatibility or any of the fancy THX certifications that increase the price of TVs so much. Do you need it in a 32" TV? Do you need LED backlighting even? No, not in a 32" TV you dont. CFL flourescent lighting will work just fine. This TV does contain those new Internet TV options (SmartTV) so we believe it is decent value for a 32" TV. A little on the expensive side for this size.

-Robert Wiley, editor

 



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