Hitachi flat-panel LCD TVs
A complete, side-by-side comparison of all of the models of this TV type from this manufacturer.
Price range (MSRP):
$2,000 to $3,800
Initial release dates:
June through October 2005
Size range (inches):
26 to 37 (diagonal)
Highlights:
PC inputs; one model with CableCard
From only one flat-panel LCD in 2004, Hitachi expanded its lineup to four models for 2005. We still don't expect the company's LCDs to be a major force at retail compared to heavy hitters such as Sharp and Panasonic, and this line's prices are relatively high compared to those of the flood of bargain LCDs on the market.
The Hitachi lineup
From entry level to top of the line, with the step-up features that distinguish each line from the previous ones highlighted.
The HDL52 series consists of three
flat-panel LCD TVs. These sets have a
native resolution of 1,280x720, which means they can display every detail of
720p material and need to scale
1080i material to fit the available pixels. This series features an
ATSC tuner but are not
Digital Cable Ready. This means you can receive over-the-air HDTV without an external tuner, but you'll still need a cable box if you use digital cable. Considering that current Digital Cable Ready TVs use first-generation CableCard technology, which cannot handle video on demand or electronic program guide services, this might not be that much of an issue (see more info
here). Their connectivity is highlighted by a
DVI input, a PC input, and two component-video inputs. The 26-inch 26HDL52 ($2,000), the 32-inch 32HDL52 ($2,700), and the 37-inch 37HDL52 ($3,500) will be available in August, September, and October, respectively.
- 1,366x768 native resolution
- ATSC HDTV tuner
- DVI input
- Two component-video inputs
- PC input
The 32HLX61 is the step-up model to the HDL52 series. The feature set is considerably upgraded, and it is Digital Cable Ready, so you don't need an external cable box to watch digital cable. Its connectivity is extensive, highlighted by two
HDMI ports, two component-video inputs, a PC input, a USB input, and two
FireWire ports. An RS-232C port is also available, although this is useful only to those who plan to use the TV as part of their home-automation system. The inputs and outputs are housed in a separate box, which is connected to the monitor via a nine-foot-long cable, similar to the system used by 2004's
42HDT51 plasma. The 32HLX62 also has a power swivel stand and a second simple remote for everyday use. The 32HLX61 ($3,799) is scheduled to be released in June.
- 1,366x768 native resolution
- ATSC HDTV tuner
- Digital Cable Ready
- Two HDMI inputs
- Two component video inputs
- PC input
- USB input
- Two FireWire inputs
- RS-232C
- Simple remote
- Two-year warranty
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