Toshiba 42SL417U Review
Description: 42" Full HD LED backlit LCD TV 1080p resolution
Includes: Tablet Top Stand, Built in Wifi, component and composite breakout cables
Dimensions: 42.46" X 28.59 X 1
Reviewer: Jack Burden
Date: Summer 2011
Picture Quality Rating (HD): 8/10
Toshiba claimed to have come out with a new processor for their TVs called Cinespeed and we can confirm that it works. During processor testing (results next page) the Toshiba SL417 registered excellent results, the best we've seen on several tests including the most difficult film resolution loss test. The superb processor translates into little to no motion lag, moire' patterns, color mapping, and especially annoying flicker with moving patterns. Eliminating these faults helps picture quality tremendously. On the negative side of picture quality, side angle viewing contrast degrades rapidly at 20 degrees and severely (30%).
Picture Quality Rating (Non-HD): 7.5/10
A crisp, colorful shot from the DVD of Kill Bill shows how well the SL417 can upconvert lower resolution signals..
The Toshiba's processor did a great job of upconverting lower end signals to its full 1080p resolution. It especially shines when vertical pattern information is displayed such as ties, or blinds. Color output was just as good as with HD programming. What the SL417 does not overcome are two of the most common issues with LED backed LCD TVs – 1) weak side viewing angles, and 2) backlight screen uniformity. We've mentioned the first, with uniformity when we increased the Brightness controls slightly to help dark shadow detail we could more easily see backlight uniformity issues especially near the left and right edges of the screen.
Features Rating: 8/10
Aesthetic Appearance and Design: The SL417 is no slouch in the looks department with a slim 1" black medium gloss bezel framing and a clear glass finish on the top of the heavy well built table stand. The included stand also swivels to about 20 degrees. The depth of the TV is a super sleek 1" by our measurements. Input receptacles are well positioned to allow for super tight wall mounting (thus the included breakout cables).
Value Rating: 8.5/10
The 42SL417U is priced around $999 from authorized retailers. We think it offers some very compelling features and qualities for this price. At 42 inches it is 2 inches larger than most of it's competitions which includes the Samsung UN40D6000, the Sony KDL40EX620, and the LG 42LV5500.
Overall Rating: 7.9/10
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