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The simple fact is that the processing this Hitachi plasma uses to map standard definition pictures onto its 1,024 x 1,024 resolution just isn’t as forgiving of source weaknesses as that of some more expensive screens. So while standard def pictures can be perfectly enjoyable for 90 per cent of the time, weaker efforts can look decidedly soft, as well as suffering one or two dodgy colour tones.

Standard definition pictures are occasionally also blighted by traces of three traditional plasma problems that the best new screens have more or less eradicated. First, during camera pans you can see fizzing noise over ‘peak’ parts of the picture, especially people’s skin. Second, dark areas can suffer with some low level grey pixel noise. And finally, what should look like smooth colour blends can sometimes appear instead as a series of unsubtle stripes.

One last general grumble now that we seem to be enjoying an early sunny spell is that the Hitachi’s screen tends to reflect light in the room a bit more than we’d like.
Sonically the 42PD6600 is solid. It has a decent stab at producing the sort of bass levels needed to bring an action movie to life, and treble effects sound clean and distortion free. The only problem is that the middle of the sound range feels a little underpowered, which can make vocals struggle during louder moments.

Verdict

OK, so we’ve established that the 42PD6600 isn’t perfect. But what did you expect for £1,200? The reality here is that the 42PD6600 is actually miles better than any other 42in plasma around for anything like the same money. And as such it’s a dream come true for any high definition fan who’s desperate for a substantial flat TV but doesn’t have a limitless bank account.

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