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LG's best plasma gets THX 3D, black filter

The LG PZ950 series of plasma TVs offers a slim bezel and THX certification for both 2D and 3D sources.

David Katzmaier Editorial Director -- Personal Tech
David reviews TVs and leads the Personal Tech team at CNET, covering mobile, software, computing, streaming and home entertainment. We provide helpful, expert reviews, advice and videos on what gadget or service to buy and how to get the most out of it.
Expertise A 20-year CNET veteran, David has been reviewing TVs since the days of CRT, rear-projection and plasma. Prior to CNET he worked at Sound & Vision magazine and eTown.com. He is known to two people on Twitter as the Cormac McCarthy of consumer electronics. Credentials
  • Although still awaiting his Oscar for Best Picture Reviewer, David does hold certifications from the Imaging Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Standards and Technology on display calibration and evaluation.
David Katzmaier
2 min read

LG's PZ950 sport the company's fullest array of plasma features for 2011. LG

LAS VEGAS--LG will ship seven different series of plasma TVs in 2011, and the chief of the tribe is the PZ950 series.

Much like the PX950 series we liked last year, the PZ950, along with the step-down PZ750, will offer THX certification for both 2D and 3D sources. The advantage of the system is that one button press provides a relatively accurate picture, and in our tests the PX950's 3D was very good. (In case you're wondering, all LG plasmas use active 3D technology, not the passive variety found on some of its LCDs).

The PZ950's main performance-related bonus over the PZ750 is a RealBlack filter designed to improve black-level performance in brighter rooms. We liked its effect on the 2010 model.

The highest-end LG plasma also offers a thinner bezel than past models, a mere 1.18 inches wide, and a design captured by LG's press release: "Real glass is paired with a hairline aluminum highlight to create a luxurious, virtually borderless appearance, while a transparent lower panel completes the slim even-bezel look."

Both the 950 and the 750 feature LG's new Smart TV interface and Magic Wand remote (see the PZ750 writeup for details). Only the PZ950 includes a Wi-Fi USB dongle for free, however.

Pricing and availability were not announced.

LG PZ950 series features:

  • Plasma TV
  • 3D-compatible
  • THX-certified for 2D and 3D
  • TruBlack Filter
  • Narrow, 1.8-inch bezel
  • Depth less than 2 inches thick
  • Magic Wand remote
  • Smart TV with NetCast and web browser
  • Wi-Fi USB dongle included

LG PZ950 series models:

  • LG 50PZ950: 50-inch
  • LG 60PZ950: 60-inch