Hitachi 42HDS69 Plasma: Coming Attraction
By Shane Buettner   •   September, 2006

• $2,499
• 42" Plasma
• 1024x1080
• Key Connections: Three(!) HDMI inputs and three component inputs

Features We Like: Full 1080 vertical resolution, astounding connectivity with three HDMI and three component inputs, Over-the-Air and cableCARD HD tuners, dynamic day and night memory modes with timer

Features We Miss: The simple truth is, nothing major!

1080 is one of those magic numbers that catch the attention for video geeks like us. While it doesn't do the full 1920 across, this plasma does offer full 1080-pixel resolution in the crucial vertical direction, eliminating the need for any vertical downconversion with 1920x1080 HD signals. But beyond that, this plasma is loaded with useful features at a very attractive list price of just $2,499. In addition to about a million image enhancements, it has excellent connectivity with three HDMI inputs, and a it not only allows separate memories optimized for day vs. night viewing, it allows you to set a timer to switch them over. This looks like a lotta plasma for the scratch from on of the handful of companies that manufactures its own plasma glass. In stores now.