Posted Sep 6th 2007 11:18AM by Darren Murph
Filed under: Displays, HDTV

Panasonic has already kicked out a couple of HD projectors, but if you're more into wall-mounted displays, well, you're covered too. The firm has announced a new duo of 1080p plasma displays, the 42-inch TH-42PZ77 and 50-inch TH-50PZ77, which both tout 10:000:1 contrast ratios, a pair of HDMI sockets, three S-Video and composite jacks, and two component inputs. The PZ77 series "also incorporates an automatic pixel wobbling function" as well as EZ-Sync technology, which "links Panasonic consumer home entertainment and video products to allow seamless control" with a single remote. Most interesting, however, are the price tags that these suckas are wearing, as the 42-incher will only run you $1,799.95, while the big boy is expected to ring up at a still respectable $2,799.95 when they ship this month.

how do these differ from the pz700u and pz75u sets?

where did you get this info from, if I may ask, and those are MSRP prices right.

how do these differ from the pz700u and pz75u sets? i can see the claimed contrast ratio is higher...same as the 10g 720p displays

I can't find any info yet on these new models at the Panasonic consumer electronics website under their plasma section. Any links to specs and photos?

Here is the press release (http://www2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prModelDetail?storeId=11301&catalogId=13251&itemId=182438&modelNo=Content08302007042401446&surfModel=Content08302007042401446).

Are these guys suppose to be the Kuro killers? or not?

Are these guys suppose to be the Kuro killers? or not?
no, with the higher contrast, better glare screen and lower pricing they are more likely to kill the 700/750s than any Kuros.
lowering the msrp price points will always help tho.

Anybody know the Panasonic web site well enough to dig up an owner's manual?

well doubling the contrast implies less of the dimming issue and maybe better blacks so it would indeed catch up to the kuros (since Panasonic have until recently been known as havingt the best blacks).

But yeah they keep callking it the more "affordable" line, with all else being equal except a better price and contrast, so whats going on? is this tv an automatic step up? should one wait for the end of the month to get it over the 700u?

well doubling the contrast implies less of the dimming issue and maybe better blacks so it would indeed catch up to the kuros (since Panasonic have until recently been known as havingt the best blacks).

is this tv an automatic step up? should one wait for the end of the month to get it over the 700u?

This is exactly what I am wondering...I have a PZ700U on order right now to be delievred at month end...wondering if I should go and cancel the order and order 50PZ77, I don't mind waiting a month to get it. It seems like a no brainer to do it, am I wrong to think like this???

now shipping? I am curious how these compare to the 700u series.

well doubling the contrast implies less of the dimming issue and maybe better blacks so it would indeed catch up to the kuros (since Panasonic have until recently been known as havingt the best blacks).Won't even be close. These new panels only catch up to their 768p siblings.

Fantastic! These will be priced better than the current 700U 42" and 50". Probably will have slightly less inputs is my guess...

Chris

Won't even be close. These new panels only catch up to their 768p siblings.

So you've seen them in action??

Anybody know the Panasonic web site well enough to dig up an owner's manual?I've been checking throughout the day but the PZ77 owner's manual is not available yet. It seems that the manual becomes available right about the time the TV becomes available in stores.

To get to the owners manuals, go to the Support section and you should find the link where you drill-down a bit till you get to place where you can type in the model number.

So the Anti-Glare coating from the px77u's (rather than the lesser anti-reflective coating from the 700/750u) with a 10000:1 CR at a lower price than the current 700u's.... Sounds good. No doubt the 10000:1 CR enabled the use of the AG coating now with these 1080p units.

P.S. - Pioneer, now will you please lower the MSRP of the 4280/5080? :D

Won't even be close. These new panels only catch up to their 768p siblings.

what? how do you even know this that it wont even be close? have you seen them? I think you need to ease up a little bit and wait and see, since as far as things look now it may indeed catch up to the Kuros, but you really dont know otherwise based on what we have just learned aside from what the announcements imply as it being a step up in contrast.

However, I may be nit-picking, but I believe Panasonic's strategy to release these units does nothing to best Pioneer's units. I believe they should have lowered the MSRP and street price on the 700U's (42" and 50") and come out with a 42PZ800U and 50PZ800U with deeper blacks or high level black level technology with the similar MSRP as their current 700U series. This would make sense to me...!

Chris

Looks to me like return fire for the Samsung 5084 at
that price point and feature set.


dxr

I've been checking throughout the day but the PZ77 owner's manual is not available yet. It seems that the manual becomes available right about the time the TV becomes available in stores.

To get to the owners manuals, go to the Support section and you should find the link where you drill-down a bit till you get to place where you can type in the model number.

I tried that too. If I recall correctly, the first time the 50PE700 showed up on these boards occurred when someone posted a link to ALL of panny's plasma owner manuals. It was a whole page of PDF links to all the models including those from other countries. This was in the middle of summer--a good month or two before the PE700 showed up in stores--and the manual was already there. I'm hoping that if we can dig that link up it might have the PZ77 manuals.

Does it have VGA connection for pc and my xbox 360?

I believe the reason Panasonic is releasing these display's, is because they want to compete with the current growth in LCD sales. By lowering the prices and offering a 1080P set at a low price will probably change alot of peoples minds when it comes time to purchase a new flat panel for the holiday's. I hope they add a 58" to the list.

I take it with the information just coming out, we dont have an expectation as to when they will be available to purchase? Perhaps someone out there does have this information...

what? how do you even know this that it wont even be close? have you seen them? I think you need to ease up a little bit and wait and see, since as far as things look now it may indeed catch up to the Kuros, but you really dont know otherwise based on what we have just learned aside from what the announcements imply as it being a step up in contrast.I have info on these panels that you don't. You fail to realize that I do have "insider info" from Panasonic. Please feel free to view these panels when they come out. Here is my "I told you so" in advance.

D-Nice,
How did Panasonic double the contrast ratio of the new PZ77 models without a new panel? Are they simply driving them harder? Also, doesn't this mean that these 'entry-level' 1080P sets will have a better picture than the high-end PZ700 and PZ750 models?

D-Nice,
How did Panasonic double the contrast ratio of the new PZ77 models without a new panel? Are they simply driving them harder? Also, doesn't this mean that these 'entry-level' 1080P sets will have a better picture than the high-end PZ700 and PZ750 models?

You're right RicheyPoor, I think this is the biggest question on everyone's mind. If the new panels would have been announced with the same 5000 contrast level then I believe many (if not all) would have assumed they were the exact same panels with fewer inputs. That said, I don't think it's too far off the mark to wonder if these new 1080p's will be better than the previous models. Quite a conundrum. I'm also willing to wager there are a number of us watching these developments closely.

Won't even be close. These new panels only catch up to their 768p siblings.

are you saying they are comparable to the 42/5080 or that they are a small improvment from the px75/77u sets? If you have inside info, are they better or worse then the pz700/750u models?

D-Nice,
How did Panasonic double the contrast ratio of the new PZ77 models without a new panel? Are they simply driving them harder?They are using a new driver to drive a revised 9G glass (new phosphors). The new driver is capable of boosting the picture brightness and slightly reducing the minimum luminance. You can expect a minimum luminance level measurements around the 0.013-0.015ftl range.
Also, doesn't this mean that these 'entry-level' 1080P sets will have a better picture than the high-end PZ700 and PZ750 models? That remains to be seen. From what I know is it using the same V-Real processor that is in the 700/750u series. They will have much better anti-reflection properties though.

are you saying they are comparable to the 42/5080 or that they are a small improvment from the px75/77u sets? If you have inside info, are they better or worse then the pz700/750u models?Kuros are not their siblings. The PX75/77u panels are.

They are using a new driver to drive a revised 9G glass (new phosphors). The new driver is capable of boosting the picture brightness and slightly reducing the minimum luminance. You can expect a minimum luminance level measurements around the 0.013-0.015ftl range.
That remains to be seen. From what I know is it using the same V-Real processor that is in the 700/750u series. They will have much better anti-reflection properties though.
Thanks for the info. Can you comment on the external appearance? Will it be similar to the 700's or perhaps the 75's as Randy speculated? Any other changes you know about (audio, inputs, 24 Hz support)?

Kuros are not their siblings. The PX75/77u panels are.

That's what I figured, but how about the comparison betwen the new pz77 to the pz700u sets. There's got to be a difference other than the A.R. screen.

That's what I figured, but how about the comparison betwen the new pz77 to the pz700u sets. There's got to be a difference other than the A.R. screen.The pz77 will look brighter and will have better blacks, especially in the daytime, due to the anti-reflective panel.

Thanks for the info. Can you comment on the external appearance? Will it be similar to the 700's or perhaps the 75's as Randy speculated? Any other changes you know about (audio, inputs, 24 Hz support)?I didn't get a picture of it yet. However, knowing how Panasonic operates, they will more than likely be a completely black version of the current px77u casing (no gray at the bottom). They do not officially accept 1080p/24. That won't happen until the 2008 models.

The pz77 will look brighter and will have better blacks, especially in the daytime, due to the anti-reflective panel.

This is what I have been waiting to hear...thanks for the information D-Nice!

will they display at 1080p via component or just hdmi like the 700 and 750

EU version of pz77,pz70 takes 1080p24(this is tested). According to some panasonic techguy pz70 does 24Hz->72Hz(output) but it is not mentioned in manuals or website. So true 24Hz support might be new thing from pz700.

EU version of pz77,pz70 takes 1080p24(this is tested). According to some panasonic techguy pz70 does 24Hz->72Hz(output) but it is not mentioned in manuals or website. So true 24Hz support might be new thing from pz700.It may unofficially take 1080p/24, but it will not display it at 72Hz as the panel is 60Hz (US models).Doing 1080p/24 and displaying it beyond 60Hz is something big for Panasonic. Rest assured when they officially do it, it will be touted in their specs.

cool, really looking forward to these displays. I love the styling of the 77u series, very slick. Plus the improved contrast to match the 768p sets is great. Only thing is Panasonic has been very sparse with its connections on their sets this year. A 3rd HDMI and/or a PC input would be much appreciated.

wow, talk about dropping the bomb on pz700 owners. it's great to release an improved set but this was unexpectedly soon. 700s were only just released. i'm sure alot of people would have waited to check these out before making their decision. not cool panasonic.

But what i don't understand is why would Panasonic offer an lower priced model (pz77) with improved features (CR, anti-glare) to the 700u and still produce an offer the 700u. What IQ do you have to have to buy a lesser model at a higher price? :) Something does not make sense other than that there are some differences in the pz77 and 700u that we don't know as of yet.

Mark

Something does not make sense other than that there are some differences in the pz77 and 700u that we don't know as of yet.

MarkNot really. The PZ77u are basically the same as the UKs PZ70u. You can visit the UKs avforums for more info on these sets.

Damn you panasonic, I was bleeding edge for like 2 weeks :(

I have info on these panels that you don't. You fail to realize that I do have "insider info" from Panasonic. Please feel free to view these panels when they come out. Here is my "I told you so" in advance.

I didnt fail to realize it, you failed to mention it when you so assuredly told me that you knew for a fact without seeing them that they are in no way an improvement from the 700u towards the kuro panels (even though in later posts you said it would have better blacks and brightness, which would imply they would be).

So then, if now you're saying you have this insider info (so,....you HAVE seen it?), then lay it all out there, whats going on with it, it looks like an economy model in terms of price but it looks like in all arenas an improvement over a 700u, so whats it intended to be?

Damn you panasonic, I was bleeding edge for like 2 weeks :(

Heh, reminds me when I paid $2100 for a Pentium-M laptop (Acer Travelmate
8100 or something like that) about 2 years ago and no more than 2 weeks
later, the same company reintroduces a replacement top-of-the-line laptop
(8200 I believe) which included a CoreDuo processor (clocked higher too!),
a camera, better keyboard, bigger hard drive, twice the memory, and some
other goodies for almost the same exact price. I almost flung my laptop off
the balcony of my condo. :eek:

Sigh, I might be facing something similar to what you're facing though. I ordered
a Pioneer 150FD 60 inch Plasma and by the time I get it, there will be rumours
of its 2008 replacement. It'll probably be brighter, less glare, more energy
efficient, perhaps even bigger black-level improvements, and such. :)

You know, though, after a few weeks, the possible remorse goes away and
you're back in love with the item.

I didnt fail to realize it, you failed to mention it when you so assuredly told me that you knew for a fact without seeing them that they are in no way an improvement from the 700u towards the kuro panels (even though in later posts you said it would have better blacks and brightness, which would imply they would be).

So then, if now you're saying you have this insider info (so,....you HAVE seen it?), then lay it all out there, whats going on with it, it looks like an economy model in terms of price but it looks like in all arenas an improvement over a 700u, so whats it intended to be?What? let's go back to your orginal post and start over:

well doubling the contrast implies less of the dimming issue and maybe better blacks so it would indeed catch up to the kuros (since Panasonic have until recently been known as havingt the best blacks).

But yeah they keep callking it the more "affordable" line, with all else being equal except a better price and contrast, so whats going on? is this tv an automatic step up? should one wait for the end of the month to get it over the 700u?


well doubling the contrast implies less of the dimming issue and maybe better blacks so it would indeed catch up to the kuros (since Panasonic have until recently been known as havingt the best blacks).Won't even be close. These new panels will have a minimum luminance level between 0.013ftl-0.015ftl. The Kuros range from 0.0023ftl to 0.0038ftl. How are those numbers close? The current PX75/77u aren't even close to being as bright as the Kuros, so how will these?


But yeah they keep callking it the more "affordable" line, with all else being equal except a better price and contrast, so whats going on? is this tv an automatic step up? should one wait for the end of the month to get it over the 700u?The PZ77u models are a more affordable version of the PZ700/750 series with improved brightness/minimum luminance levels, better phosphors, and the capability of having the anti-reflection screen treatment of the PX77u series without needing a bat cave to view them comfortably.

Not really. The PZ77u are basically the same as the UKs PZ70u. You can visit the UKs avforums for more info on these sets.


I am not doubting you or suggesting that your information is not accurate but that does not address my question. With what logic would Panasonic continue to offer a higher priced model with "older", "lesser" features. Who is their market target for this model? The news release does suggest that they will continue to offer the 700u. Why?

Mark

ok so to confirm the special tidbit of insider info you have is luminance levels, but you still have not seen them i assume?

And i keep hearing that they are more "affordable" well, this is a fact of course, but whenever i hear that word, i keep wondering what the "catch" is, since i wouldnt imagine it's a step up AND cheaper, is it?

It looks like the 77 has less powerful speakers and no AVC HD playback ability according to other posts I have seen. There may be other differences as well.

Mark

I am not doubting you or suggesting that your information is not accurate but that does not address my question. With what logic would Panasonic continue to offer a higher priced model with "older", "lesser" features. Who is their market target for this model? The news release does suggest that they will continue to offer the 700u. Why?

MarkI think you need to call Panasonic and ask for their reasoning.

It looks like the 77 has less powerful speakers and no AVC HD playback ability according to other posts I have seen. There may be other differences as well.

Mark

that seems too good to be true though, less power speakers in exhcnage for better pq at a lower price? It's like they read what changes i would most ideally like in such a situation, anyhow worser built in sound doesnt sound much of a "catch" to me, more like an improvement :D

whats AVC HD playback though?

Hi all,

Just joined the Forum, Have read the site for sometime now. Great place.
I have been in the market for a new plasma. My search has brought me to:
http://panasonic.co.uk/plasma-tv/index.htm

This is the Europe site, they have the new models listed. The biggest change to the plasmas is the chip. They are moving to V-real pro 2 chip. I have also come across a PY700 model.

I hope this helps. I look forward to a new plasma in the coming months.

Later,
Larry

ok so to confirm the special tidbit of insider info you have is luminance levels, but you still have not seen them i assume?"special tidbit"? You can call it what you want. It's plain ol' info to me. No I have not seen it. But what does that have to do with anything?

No I have not seen it. But what does that have to do with anything?

it has alot to do with it actually.

Hi all,

Just joined the Forum, Have read the site for sometime now. Great place.
I have been in the market for a new plasma. My search has brought me to:
http://panasonic.co.uk/plasma-tv/index.htm

This is the Europe site, they have the new models listed. The biggest change to the plasmas is the chip. They are moving to V-real pro 2 chip. I have also come across a PY700 model.

I hope this helps. I look forward to a new plasma in the coming months.

Later,
LarryV-Real pro 2 chips are already in the current models.

it has alot to do with it actually.What does it have to do with it. You want people who have seen it, visit the UKs avforums. See what their impressions are. See if they are any different than what I've said so far. Better yet, wait until these panels are available in the States and make your own conclusions.

What does it have to do with it. You want people who have seen it, visit the UKs avforums. See what their impressions are. See if they are any different than what I've said so far. Better yet, wait until these panels are available in the States and make your own conclusions.

What is the model # of this UK TV youre referring to because all the PZ700 ones on the link listed above show 5000:1 CR.

Better yet, wait until these panels are available in the States and make your own conclusions.

Good, now you're beggining to understand better. No matter what singular piece of insider info you have it doesnt mean a whole lot until you've actually seen it in action, the 81 series topic should have educated you in that idea a little better.

What is the model # of this UK TV youre referring to because all the PZ700 ones on the link listed above show 5000:1 CR.
PZ70.

Good, now you're beggining to understand better. No matter what singular piece of insider info you have it doesnt mean a whole lot until you've actually seen it in action, the 81 series topic should have educated you in that idea a little better.The 81 series....HA! I never listened to or trusted Sampo's claims. You might have, but I knew better. I trusted my sources far more than the BS he was proclaiming.

This makes no sense to me in terms of a marketing perspective... ?!?!?!

that seems too good to be true though, less power speakers in exhcnage for better pq at a lower price? It's like they read what changes i would most ideally like in such a situation, anyhow worser built in sound doesnt sound much of a "catch" to me, more like an improvement :D

whats AVC HD playback though?


AVC is a video codec but I'm not sure what this has to do with the TV??

I agree if all these things are true I may have found my new TV. It does seem too good to be true. I guess I'm off to find some UK msg boards to see if I can get some insight from across the pond.

This makes no sense to me in terms of a marketing perspective... ?!?!?!

My point as well. Typically when something makes no sense it means we don't have all the facts yet.

Mark

Hmmm..

I know the Kuro may have better PQ but...Kuro 5010 at $5,000 or PZ77 at $2,799.95-EPP?

Hmmm..

I know the Kuro may have better PQ but...Kuro 5010 at $5,000 or PZ77 at $2,799.95-EPP?

This is my point exactly!!! If they have an EPP for the PZ77...it will be a no brainer...just now the waiting game...ughhh I take it that it is too soon to tell if there is an EPP for this set?

The 81 series....HA! I never listened to or trusted Sampo's claims. You might have, but I knew better. I trusted my sources far more than the BS he was proclaiming.

oh yes, "sampo", well i didnt listen to "sampo" either, but the whole theme of the topic that you should probably learn from is that nothing is set in stone until it's out and you've seen and used it no matter what overused nickname, reputation, or sources you have, otherwise presumpiousness is presumptiousness plain and simple.

Here you go folks. They have reworked them in order to come out with a lower price line.

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1895,2180641,00.asp


"Panasonic's CEDIA booth featured two new value-priced additions to the company's expanding line of 1080p-resolution plasma televisions. The 42-inch Panasonic TH-42PZ77U and the 50-inch TH-50PZ77U utilize the same panels used in the company's 700-series of 1080p plasma televisions, and include two HDMI ports as well as an SD memory card slot for viewing digital images. Cost reductions of the new PZ77-series televisions were achieved by incorporating a different speaker package and eliminating the VGA port. Also, the 700-series' anti-reflective screen coating has been changed to an anti-glare screen coating on the PZ77U-series televisions. Available later this month, the TH-42PZ77U and TH-50PZ77U will carry a suggested retail price of $1,799.95 and $2,799.95, respectively."

While it is not mentioned in this copy, I think that they have also reduced the number of HDMI connections from 3 to 2. Not sure of that. Can some Panny guru verify that for me please.

It looks these models will be similar to the PX77U series, however, with 1080p capabilities.

Chris

i'm no panny guru but i was pretty sure the 700u only had to HDMI ports as well.

But wait, if that article is true, then how do they explain the supposed improvements? or the one we have seen so far, that being the improved contrast level?

Here are the posted specs. on the 42PZ700U.
It is listed as having a contrast ratio of "up to 5000 to 1". Perhaps the change in coating is what might have improved the ratio on the new model.


Panasonic 42" 1080p Plasma Flat Panel HDTV In Black, Model TH42PZ700U

42" Class (41.6" Diagonal) 1080p Plasma HDTV with Anti-Reflective Coating, EZ Sync™ HDAVI Control and Built-in GalleryPlayer®-Capable SD Card Memory Slot

Video Demonstrations:
(Click hyperlink text to view)

* EZsync Demo

Key Features:

* 1080p HD Plasma Panel (1920 x 1080 pixels)
* EZ Sync™ HDAVI Control
* Built-in SD Card Memory Slot/GalleryPlayer®-Capable
* Built-in NTSC/ATSC/QAM tuners
* HDMI inputs
* Anti-Reflective (AR) Coating

Features:

* 1080p High-Def Resolution for Crisp, Life-Like Details
The extremely high 1920 x 1080 pixel count of this plasma TV allows for its incredible 1080p HD display capability, which provides twice the number of pixels as 720p HDTV displays for superior detail and extraordinary HDTV reproduction.
* One-Touch Playback
EZ Sync™ HDAVI Control lets you operate all of your home theater components by pressing a single button on your TV's remote control.
* Turn Your Living Room into a Gallery
GalleryPlayer® allows you to enjoy the world's finest high definition art and photography on your Panasonic HD plasma TV. Use the free GalleryPlayer® software to purchase and download the images you like, and then play them on your Panasonic HDTV right from your PC. Sign-up is easy and free. Plus, you get a free collection of high definition images to enjoy right away in your home or office.
* Share Digital Photos on the Big Screen
Share your JPEG photos taken with a Lumix® digital camera on your Panasonic plasma using the built-in SD card slot1. Simply insert the SD card, which is about the size of a postage stamp, into the SD slot on the TV and enjoy a photo slideshow with Photo Viewer.

Specifications
Diagonal Screen Size 42" Class (41.6" diagonal)
Aspect Ratio 16:9 (Widescreen)
HDTV Compatibility2 480p/720p/1080i/1080p
Shades of Gradation 4,096
Native Resolution (Number of Pixels) 1920 x 1080
Contrast Ratio Up to 5000:1
Progressive Scan Yes
Video Noise Reduction Yes
Digital Comb Filter Motion Adaptive 3D-Y/C
Color Purity Optimizer (3D Color Management) Yes
Sub-Pixel Controller Yes
Motion Pattern Noise Reduction Yes
Audio
Speakers 4:
(2 woofers: 8 ohms, 55 Hz - 350Hz, 10% THD)
(2 tweeters: 8 ohms, 350Hz - 17kHz, 10% THD)
31W Output Power
Surround Sound Yes
BBE® ViVA HD3D Sound Yes
Inputs / Outputs
Tuners NTSC (Standard analog broadcasts)
ATSC/QAM (SDTV and HDTV broadcasts)
SD Card Slot Yes
HDMI-HDCP Interface 2 rear
Analog Audio Input (for HDMI) 2 rear
Composite Video Input 3 (2 rear, 1 front)
S-Video Input 3 (2 rear, 1 front)
Audio Input (for Video) 3 (2 rear, 1 front)
PC Input (RGB-VGA) Mini D-sub 15-pin (rear)
Audio Input (for PC) 1 (M3 Stereo Plug)
Component Video Input [Y, PB(CB), PR(CR)] 2 rear
Audio Input (for Component Video) 2 rear
Composite Video Output 1 rear
Audio Output 1 rear
Digital Audio Out 1 (optical)
Convenience
EZ Sync™ HDAVI Control Yes, via HDMI interface
Video Picture Memory Yes
On-Screen Display Languages English/Spanish/French
V-Chip Program Lockout Yes
Built-In Closed Caption Decoder Yes
Timers - Sleep/On/Off Sleep (Off only)
Video Input Labeling Yes
General
Power Supply AC 120 V, 60 Hz
Operating Temperature 32°F - 104°F
Pedestal Stand Included
Approximate Dimensions (W x H x D)
Including pedestal 42.5" × 29.8" × 14.6"
(1,077 × 755 × 369 mm)
TV Set only 42.5" × 27.2" × 5.5"
(1,077 × 689 × 138 mm)
Approximate Weight
Unit Including Pedestal: 99.3 lb. (45kg)
TV Set Only: 83.8 lb. (38kg)
Shipping 124 lbs
Warranty Information
Manufacturer Warranty
(authorized online retailer): 1 Year: Parts & Labor
2 Years: Glass Panel
See owner's manual for complete details.
Download Files (.pdf)
Operating Instructions Click here
Learn More About (.pdf):
Progressive Scan Click here
SD Technology Click here
Manufacturer Model Number: TH-42PZ700U

Footnotes:

1. Allows display of JPEG still images that are compliant with DCF specifications.
2. For models with built-in ATSC/QAM/CableCARD: Optional external over-the-air antenna may be required for ATSC reception. Contact your local cable company for information regarding the availability and costs of CableCARD-related services.

Won't even be close. These new panels only catch up to their 768p siblings.

That is correct. When D-Nice speaks I always listen. He is the person who I trust the most on AVS to provide the straight scoop, and if he does not know, he will not make stuff up. I have seen where he says he will look into something, if he does not have the answer at hand. I wish relative newcomers would stop demanding that he prove his bona fides to them. I am surprised that he puts up with it. He provides more answers and support to new owners and potential buyers, than any one else on the forum.

Here are the specs that proove that the 42 inchd 768P panny claimed a contrast ratio of "up to 10,000 to 1", so their newest 1080P model is just claiming to get back to that, just like D-Nice said.


Panasonic TH-42PX77U 42" Plasma Flat Panel HDTV In Black, Model TH42PX77U

NEW! 42" Diagonal Plasma HDTV with Anti-Glare Coating, EZ Sync™ HDAVI Control, Built-in GalleryPlayer®-Capable SD Card Memory Slot and Side-Firing Speakers

Video Demonstrations:
(Click hyperlink text to view)

* EZsync Demo

Key Features:

* 1024 x 768 Resolution
* Anti-Glare Coating
* Side-Firing Speakers
* EZ Sync™ HDAVI Control
* 2 HDMI Inputs
* Built-in SD Card Memory Slot/GalleryPlayer®-Capable

Features:

* One-Touch Playback
EZ Sync™ HDAVI Control lets you operate all of your home theater components by pressing a single button on your TV's remote control.
* Turn Your Living Room into a Gallery
GalleryPlayer® allows you to enjoy the world's finest high definition art and photography on your Panasonic HD plasma TV. Use the free GalleryPlayer® software to purchase and download the images you like, and then play them on your Panasonic HDTV right from your PC. Sign-up is easy and free. Plus, you get a free collection of high definition images to enjoy right away in your home or office.
* Share Digital Photos on the Big Screen
Share your JPEG photos taken with a Lumix® digital camera on your Panasonic plasma using the built-in SD card slot1. Simply insert the SD card, which is about the size of a postage stamp, into the SD slot on the TV and enjoy a photo slideshow with Photo Viewer.

Specifications
Diagonal Screen Size 42"
Aspect Ratio 16:9 (Widescreen)
HDTV Compatibility2 480p/720p/1080i/1080p
Displayable Colors Maximum of 29 Billion
Shades of Gradation 3,072
Pixel Pitch (H x V) 0.90 x 0.645 mm
Aspect Control for TV/AV Modes 4:3, Zoom, Full, Just, H-Fill
Native Resolution (Number of Pixels) 1024 x 768
Contrast Ratio Up to 10,000:1
Progressive Scan Yes
Video Noise Reduction Yes
Digital Comb Filter Motion Adaptive 3D-Y/C
Color Purity Optimizer (3D Color Management) Yes
Sub-Pixel Controller Yes
Motion Pattern Noise Reduction Yes
Digital Cinema Reality Yes
Audio:
Speakers 2 (Full-range x 2(L,R))
Number of Speakers 2
Audio Ouput 20W (10% THD) (8 ohms, 70Hz-17kHz)
Surround Sound Yes
Input / Output:
Tuners NTSC (Standard analog broadcasts)
ATSC/QAM (SDTV and HDTV broadcasts)
Photo Viewer Yes (SD Slot)
SD Card Slot Yes
HDMI-HDCP Interface 2
Analog Audio Input (for HDMI) 2 rear
Composite Video Input 3 (2 rear, 1 front)
S-Video Input 3 (2 rear, 1 front)
Audio Input (for Video) 3 (2 rear, 1 front)
Component Video Input [Y, PB(CB), PR(CR)] 2 rear
Audio Input (for Component Video) 2 rear
Composite Video Output 1 rear
Audio Output 1 rear
Digital Audio Out 1 (optical)
Convenience:
EZ Sync™ HDAVI Control Yes, via HDMI interface
Video Picture Memory Yes
On-Screen Display Languages English/Spanish/French
V-Chip Program Lockout Yes
Built-In Closed Caption Decoder
Yes
Timers - Sleep/On/Off
Sleep (Off only)
Video Input Labeling Yes
General:
Power Supply AC 120 V, 60 Hz
Power Consumption
387 W
Receiving System
ATSC/QAM/NTSC
Operating Temperature
32°F - 104°F
Pedestal Stand
Included
Remote Control
Included
Approximate Dimensions and Weight:
Dimensions (H x W x D) with pedestal stand
27.1" x 44.7" x 13"
Weight with pedestal stand
77.2 lbs
Dimensions (H x W x D)
25.3'' x 44.7'' x 3.92''
Weight 61.8 lbs
Shipping 127.9 lbs
Warranty Information
Manufacturer Warranty
(authorized online retailer): 1 Year: Parts & Labor
2 Years: Glass Panel
Download Files (.pdf):
Operating Instructions / Warranty Click here
Learn More About (.pdf):
Progressive Scan Click here
SD Technology Click here
Manufacturer Model Number: TH-42PX77U

Footnotes:

D-Nice,

I saw the Pios and was amazed by the black levels and shadow details. The prices, however, are a different story. Do you know roughly when Panasonic or anyone else is going to be able to match the Pios' black level performance? Will it be in 2008, or is it even farther off than then?

D-Nice,

I saw the Pios and was amazed by the black levels and shadow details. The prices, however, are a different story. Do you know roughly when Panasonic or anyone else is going to be able to match the Pios' black level performance? Will it be in 2008, or is it even farther off than then?

Panny's next gens will be just as good by next year.

Chris

How good is the Anti-Reflective coating. I just returned a 50pz700u because i couldn't take the reflection/glare in my brightly lit room. I have on order, a Sony 46xbr4 for later this month. I thought a top of the line LCD was the only way to go with a bright room. But now i hear about this new panny plasma. hmmmmm?

But if anybody knows how well the coating on the screen works for reducing glare and reflection, please do tell.

How good is the Anti-Reflective coating. I just returned a 50pz700u because i couldn't take the reflection/glare in my brightly lit room. I have on order, a Sony 46xbr4 for later this month. I thought a top of the line LCD was the only way to go with a bright room. But now i hear about this new panny plasma. hmmmmm?

But if anybody knows how well the coating on the screen works for reducing glare and reflection, please do tell.

I does not fully reduce glare, but reduces or minimizes the glare on the set.

Chris

Would anybody choose a sony 46xbr4 over this new 50pz77u. Should i cancel my sony that arrives later this month?

My main purpose for the set is

1. watching SPORTS
2. HD/SD watching
3. PS3 playing
4. Blue Ray

and I have a VERY VERY bright room.

Would anybody choose a sony 46xbr4 over this new 50pz77u. Should i cancel my sony that arrives later this month?

My main purpose for the set is

1. watching SPORTS
2. HD/SD watching
3. PS3 playing
4. Blue Ray

and I have a VERY VERY bright room.

The Sony does look good for an LCD, but even compared to the PX75U the Sony looked decent. I would cancel and wait for the PZ77U.

Chris

If you believe D-nice your as crazy as he is. Mark the posts. He is wrong that they are not better. No need argue it :)

Anyone who gets suckered into listening to one guy is a follower.

All that needs to be said. No more posts needed.

Would anybody choose a sony 46xbr4 over this new 50pz77u. Should i cancel my sony that arrives later this month?

My main purpose for the set is

1. watching SPORTS
2. HD/SD watching
3. PS3 playing
4. Blue Ray

and I have a VERY VERY bright room.

The sets just got announced. They are not even in the stores yet. For a proper answer to your question, you will have to wait until they are actually on display.

I guess I'll have to use up all of my BB's 30 day "trial" period to see this new Panny hit the stores.

Now I'm confused. I had delivered today a 50pz700u but sent it back for dead pixels. Wonder if I should cancel my entire order and wait for these pannys. I got a great deal on my current, lower than what these will come out for.

D-Nice,

I saw the Pios and was amazed by the black levels and shadow details. The prices, however, are a different story. Do you know roughly when Panasonic or anyone else is going to be able to match the Pios' black level performance? Will it be in 2008, or is it even farther off than then?2008 model year is when Panasonic will truly improve their black levels. Whether or not they match or exceed Pioneer's Kuros is a different story. However, Panasonic will force Pioneer to reduce their prices next year as there are too many people who believe in the "good enough for my money" values.

If you believe D-nice your as crazy as he is. Mark the posts. He is wrong that they are not better. No need argue it :)

Anyone who gets suckered into listening to one guy is a follower.

All that needs to be said. No more posts needed.Who the hell are you to call someone crazy? I am wrong about them being better than what?

If you believe D-nice your as crazy as he is. Mark the posts. He is wrong that they are not better. No need argue it :)

Anyone who gets suckered into listening to one guy is a follower.

All that needs to be said. No more posts needed.Now that I'm watching a PRO-150 Kuro Elite PDP, I can't stand those lower tier displays and I don't know what possessed me to buy a Panasonic TH-50PX50U in the first place? :rolleyes:

However, the 50U is a good bedroom TV. :p

I see another place where Panny is saving $$ - look at the processing: the 77u has only 3072 shades of gray versus 4096 on the 700u. So, the processing is now 10 bit versus 12 (if my math is right).

If you believe D-nice your as crazy as he is. Mark the posts. He is wrong that they are not better. No need argue it :)

Anyone who gets suckered into listening to one guy is a follower.

All that needs to be said. No more posts needed.

So we should allow you to decide when others should stop posting. Sounds like you want people to listen to only you, and just follow what you say. I will listen to D-Nice every time, before listening to such an Oxymoronic declaration from someone who contradicted himself within the confines of one brief posting.;)

D-Nice how do the new improved phoshors of the upcoming pz model differ from the
px 75u and 77u?
also im curious if the anti glare is the same as the px77
i did a side by side comparison at a store today
and the pq in some scenes (px77u) looked slighty not as vibrant perhaps dull due
to the anti glare
is there a reason the anti glare is not on the higher end models?
im a novice trying to make an educated purchase
any info will be well appreciated
thanks

D-Nice how do the new improved phoshors of the upcoming pz model differ from the
px 75u and 77u?
also im curious if the anti glare is the same as the px77
i did a side by side comparison at a store today
and the pq in some scenes (px77u) looked slighty not as vibrant perhaps dull due
to the anti glare
is there a reason the anti glare is not on the higher end models?
im a novice trying to make an educated purchase
any info will be well appreciated
thanks

I found the same thing, the px77 I saw looked sort of hazy / foggy compared to the models without the antiglare..

I think we are reading too much into the $200 drop. So we know that the trade off from the 700 to the 77 is slightly better PQ for cheaper speaker and no vga. Seems like a fair trade. But keep in mind that the 700 price has already dropped twice in the last 3-4 weeks. Since the 77's won't be abundant until the end of this month (at the earliest) the $200 MSRP difference will be barely enough to ensure price equality. I think Panny was just setting the price at where it should be once these TVs show up, rather than the price for today. All that being said, I still wonder where the 700's fit into all this--I'd be surprised if they don't get discontinued.

D-nice, thanks for all the info you provided. You certainly answered all my concerns.

well it looks like perhaps the pz77 has worse PQ b/c of the anti-glare "mesh" type of coating (?) if contrast ratio is listed the same and if it's true the color processing is lower then i would choose the cleaner looking screen coating (but more reflective) pz700 w/ better processing.

I think we are reading too much into the $200 drop. So we know that the trade off from the 700 to the 77 is slightly better PQ for cheaper speaker and no vga. Seems like a fair trade. But keep in mind that the 700 price has already dropped twice in the last 3-4 weeks. Since the 77's won't be abundant until the end of this month (at the earliest) the $200 MSRP difference will be barely enough to ensure price equality. I think Panny was just setting the price at where it should be once these TVs show up, rather than the price for today. All that being said, I still wonder where the 700's fit into all this--I'd be surprised if they don't get discontinued.

D-nice, thanks for all the info you provided. You certainly answered all my concerns.

That's probably the question that new owners and potential owners have about the current PZ700 series, i.e. 'where do the 700's fit into all of this' and will they be discontinued from the Panny line in the near future. I hope Panasonic addresses this issue so customers can exercise their purchase options.

Yesterday was programmed to be acquisition day for a new 50PZ700U for a relative. The price was attractive (lowest that I've seen recently) and that's what prompted the purchase. But after reading the threads here yesterday morning, that purchase was postponed and is now "on hold."

Unless the current price of the PZ700/750 is considerably reduced I don't see that many people will opt for these displays until they've had the opportunity to view and compare them to the PZ77's.

Now if the PZ700 price morphs to 'rock bottom' then I'll be back in the purchase line despite its comparatively reduced brightness level!

-George

I see another place where Panny is saving $$ - look at the processing: the 77u has only 3072 shades of gray versus 4096 on the 700u. So, the processing is now 10 bit versus 12 (if my math is right).

Are you sure your talking about the PZ77u and not the PX77u, I know the 768p models have only 3072 shades

So we should allow you to decide when others should stop posting. Sounds like you want people to listen to only you, and just follow what you say. I will listen to D-Nice every time, before listening to such an Oxymoronic declaration from someone who contradicted himself within the confines of one brief posting.;)

I misread D-nice original post. I thought he was implying they was no difference from the 700U to this new unit.

My appologee's to all, I need to learn to read better :( I can admit when I make an ass of myself. Sorry.

However, Panasonic will force Pioneer to reduce their prices next year as there are too many people who believe in the "good enough for my money" values.

Yea all those cheap people who don't have limitless funds to spend on TVs are just ruining it for the rest of us :rolleyes:

I have the 750U ordered.
What should I do now?
Cancel? Wait?

well it looks like perhaps the pz77 has worse PQ b/c of the anti-glare "mesh" type of coating (?) if contrast ratio is listed the same and if it's true the color processing is lower then i would choose the cleaner looking screen coating (but more reflective) pz700 w/ better processing.

I was already a little bummed (but not surprised) at the price drop Panasonic enacted a few weeks after i bought my 42PZ700U, but now i'm also bummed that i didn't wait a month so i could have checked out the anti-glare properties of this TV. I like the idea of a 1080p panel housed in the nice low/wide PX77 cabinet and a much less reflective screen than i have now with the PZ700.

I do wonder though if the Anti-Glare coating takes anything away from the image. When i compared the PX77U to a PX75U a few months ago i did perceive a little less depth but the image was pretty much the same and the Anti-Glare was probably 95% as effective as the LCDs that were on the same wall. But i do think the Anti-Glare would detract from that "looking through a window" effect so i'm going to just relax and enjoy my PZ700U :)

JandR has these models on their website already

JandR has these models on their website already

They have the contract ratio wrong in the specs

They have the contract ratio wrong in the specs

Oddly enough, this whole subject would make more sense if Panasonic had their press release wrong.

There are no specs yet, but should be released soon. Hopefully, me or anyone else can update as soon as we get the info...

Chris

damn, someone here mentioned Panasonic was shooting for a 1080p 42" plasma at 1000.00 for 2008, with an msrp of 1800.00 on this unit and proably closer to 1500.00 by xmas, they just may do it

at 1000.00 for a 42 inch plasma, they may just obliterate the competition

damn, someone here mentioned Panasonic was shooting for a 1080p 42" plasma at 1000.00 for 2008, with an msrp of 1800.00 on this unit and probably closer to 1500.00 by xmas, they just may do it

at 1000.00 for a 42 inch plasma, they may just obliterate the competition
Yep! Panasonic will officially be the first plasma company to do it!

Chris

I had a 50PZ700U on order at BB to be delivered on 9/29. Well I was in the area of the BB and decided to stop in and ask about the new set. One Magnolia rep stated the the Panny rep said that BB was not going to get the sets in the store but looked in the system if I could order it...sure enough the local warehouse is scheduled to get 30 units. So I decided to cxl my 700U and go with the PZ77U..anticipating a brighter screen and possible of deeper black, as mentioned earlier in the thread. I figured do it now before the 700U set gets delivered and then decide to return it. Well when the rep punched up the set...I was able to get it below MSRP, not alot but I'll take it. Not sure how long BB will be offering below MSRP but wanted to pass along the info...if you curious as to how much it was just PM me...

Rhino5167 I PMed you!

Chris

Rhino5167 I PMed you!


I replied back to you Chris...

-Rob

We should be looking for a review shortly from Rhino! Hint, hint!

Chris

which reminds me, what other official sites aside from Cnet should we await reviews (for this as well as other things)? Surely there's some other good sites that review a bulk of the top sets out there?

We should be looking for a review shortly from Rhino! Hint, hint!

Chris


Please call me Rob...Rhino is so formal...ha Sure it is getting delivered at the end of the month and more than willing to help anyone on here....but realize this is my first HDTV and not that tech savy. Everyone on here has been so helpful...this site rocks!!!

-Rob

Pic at the CEDIA Show courtsey of PC Mag

I was already a little bummed (but not surprised) at the price drop Panasonic enacted a few weeks after i bought my 42PZ700U, but now i'm also bummed that i didn't wait a month so i could have checked out the anti-glare properties of this TV. I like the idea of a 1080p panel housed in the nice low/wide PX77 cabinet and a much less reflective screen than i have now with the PZ700.

I do wonder though if the Anti-Glare coating takes anything away from the image. When i compared the PX77U to a PX75U a few months ago i did perceive a little less depth but the image was pretty much the same and the Anti-Glare was probably 95% as effective as the LCDs that were on the same wall. But i do think the Anti-Glare would detract from that "looking through a window" effect so i'm going to just relax and enjoy my PZ700U :)

Sound advice as usual Randy :)

Pic at the CEDIA Show courtsey of PC Mag

They look great. For some reason, I had this nightmare that they would bring back the silver bezel with the lower prices :eek:

A 58PZ77 would make things real interesting:)

A 58PZ77 would make things real interesting:)
How about a MSRP of $3699 on that unit. I bet it will happen because their is no replacement for the 58PX60/600U. Well see...

Chris

So we should allow you to decide when others should stop posting. Sounds like you want people to listen to only you, and just follow what you say. I will listen to D-Nice every time, before listening to such an Oxymoronic declaration from someone who contradicted himself within the confines of one brief posting.;)



I too will vouch for D-nice....he is one of the better and more consistant sources on the forum......much more so than the guy with 70-some post and his sampo clones....

Does anyone know when the TVs will hit the stores?? I picked up a 42PX75U and have a 50PX77U on order and am wondering if it will hit in the 30 day return window. I wanted a 1080p but the glare on a 50 is to much for me.

Does anyone know when the TVs will hit the stores?? I picked up a 42PX75U and have a 50PX77U on order and am wondering if it will hit in the 30 day return window. I wanted a 1080p but the glare on a 50 is to much for me.

I'm hoping one of the sponsors (Roman?, Chris?) might enlighten us on this.

Does anyone know when the TVs will hit the stores?? I picked up a 42PX75U and have a 50PX77U on order and am wondering if it will hit in the 30 day return window. I wanted a 1080p but the glare on a 50 is to much for me.
I believe they have a 9/29 release date. So it should be towards the end of Sept.

Chris

It may unofficially take 1080p/24, but it will not display it at 72Hz as the panel is 60Hz (US models).Doing 1080p/24 and displaying it beyond 60Hz is something big for Panasonic. Rest assured when they officially do it, it will be touted in their specs.


Hey D-Nice just so you and every one else knows a 42px75u does indeed accept and DISPLAY 24p but unfortunately it seems to display it at 24 with no 2:2 or 3:3 conversion but it also accepts and displays 48p. So I let my HPD do the 2:2 and send that to the TV the result is a VERY smooth PQ.

I would hope that the new TV would do the same, may not be to helpful to most but it works for me :)

I believe they have a 9/29 release date. So it should be towards the end of Sept.

Chris

Well that would be great I hope CC does not get to mad at me :)

Here's the scoop I got at BB today. Both models can be ordered today. The 50 will be available as early as Sept. 12th (so someone pls order one and lets see what that PQ looks like), and the 42 will be available Sept. 28th.
These models could be the perfect middleground between the contrast and brightness challenged 700 series and the topline and expensive Kuros. Whether it may force Pio's hand in Kuro pricing hmmm...I doubt it.

Are you sure your talking about the PZ77u and not the PX77u, I know the 768p models have only 3072 shades

You are right - I misread post 71. Damn old age!

Operating Instructions PZ70 serie (UK)

http://dlc.panasonic-europe-service.com/eurodlc/default.asp?did=151790&fmt=pdf&xid=en&uilang=en

The 50 will be available as early as Sept. 12th (so someone pls order one and lets see what that PQ looks like), and the 42 will be available Sept. 28th.


lets hope this is true and get a review compared to the 700u so i can make a decision. i went into CC this past weekend and the guy i spoke to didn't know a thing about these

lets hope this is true and get a review compared to the 700u so i can make a decision. i went into CC this past weekend and the guy i spoke to didn't know a thing about these

I got the same confused look at CC from the rep...I am geting my 50PZ77U on 9/29 from BB....the main reason I cancelled my order for the 700U, is the hope for a brighter picture with somewhat deeper blacks. The 700U picture is great and if this new set wasn't announced till October, I would be having a 700U delivered on 9/29 instead of a 77U.

-Rob

UKs version brand new, http://panasonic.co.uk/plasma-tv/th-50pz70b/index.htm

I'm confused. I just called Panasonic and they told me that these TVs will only be 5000:1 contrast. He told me the press release is wrong. I was even pointed that JR site has 5000:1 which is correct.

The other info I received is that it will not have the piano black gloss frame, just a plain black frame. Less speakers and no VGA which everyone already knew.

I'm confused. I just called Panasonic and they told me that these TVs will only be 5000:1 contrast. He told me the press release is wrong. I was even pointed that JR site has 5000:1 which is correct.
At this point I'd say odds are the rep you talked to was wrong. There are many sources that have said that the new TVs have brighter whites and darker blacks. That has to improve CR by some amount (unless the gains have been erased by the anti-glare coating). Still, we need to keep an eye on this.

At this point I'd say odds are the rep you talked to was wrong. There are many sources that have said that the new TVs have brighter whites and darker blacks. That has to improve CR by some amount (unless the gains have been erased by the anti-glare coating). Still, we need to keep an eye on this.

This would be a big deal if alot of people hadnt ordered it sight unseen counting on it being a total upgrade in the PQ arena over the 700u (well, someones gotta do it i guess).

But otherwise, i'm sure this will be sorted out when they are phyiscally available (and whenever a big review site decides to give it a run through, even though Cnets kind of slow and i dont know any other sites to watch).

Here is the press release (http://www2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prModelDetail?storeId=11301&catalogId=13251&itemId=182438&modelNo=Content08302007042401446&surfModel=Content08302007042401446).

This isn't a review but does state that the ratio is 10000:1

This isn't a review but does state that the ratio is 10000:1

I directed the rep to the press release when he told me 5000:1 and he said the release is wrong. Now I don't know what to do since I have a 700 coming Friday.

At this point I'd say odds are the rep you talked to was wrong. There are many sources that have said that the new TVs have brighter whites and darker blacks. That has to improve CR by some amount (unless the gains have been erased by the anti-glare coating). Still, we need to keep an eye on this.

I haven't read anything from people who have actually seen the set. Do you have links?

I'm confused. I just called Panasonic and they told me that these TVs will only be 5000:1 contrast. He told me the press release is wrong. I was even pointed that JR site has 5000:1 which is correct.

The other info I received is that it will not have the piano black gloss frame, just a plain black frame. Less speakers and no VGA which everyone already knew.
Well if the US versions are indeed the same as the UK versions then the contast ratio should be 10000:1 according to Panasonic's spec sheet on the UK site.

http://panasonic.co.uk/plasma-tv/th-50pz70b/index.htm

Now if these are not the exact same unit as the UK versions then it's anyone's guess as to what is or is not in store for the US ones.

After just putting a PZ700 on order the other day, this thread has been in the very forefront of my mind. Hearing that the PZ77 might have the same contrast ratio was worrying if I was going to change my order, so I talked to a few different people at Panasonic, in both Sales and Support and each time they came up with the same answer:

That the PZ77 had a 10,000:1 CR and that it displays 29 billion colors as compared to the PZ700's 5,000:1 and 68.7 billion colors.

Besides the other differences already discussed like no VGA, fewer speakers, etc.

As an aside, what kind of difference in picture quality will those nearly 40 billion missing colors make on the PZ77?

After just putting a PZ700 on order the other day, this thread has been in the very forefront of my mind. Hearing that the PZ77 might have the same contrast ratio was worrying if I was going to change my order, so I talked to a few different people at Panasonic, in both Sales and Support and each time they came up with the same answer:

That the PZ77 had a 10,000:1 CR and that it displays 29 billion colors as compared to the PZ700's 5,000:1 and 68.7 billion colors.

Besides the other differences already discussed like no VGA, fewer speakers, etc.

As an aside, what kind of difference in picture quality will those nearly 40 billion missing colors make on the PZ77?
Again, if the 77U's truly are the same panel PQ wise to the UK 70's then the colors should be 68 billion. Again, check the specs for the 70's here:

http://panasonic.co.uk/plasma-tv/th-50pz70b/index.htm

I guess the next question for the reps at Panasonic would be if the 77U and the 70's are the same panel or not in regards to PQ.

Again, if the 77U's truly are the same panel PQ wise to the UK 70's then the colors should be 68 billion. Again, check the specs for the 70's here:

http://panasonic.co.uk/plasma-tv/th-50pz70b/index.htm

I guess the next question for the reps at Panasonic would be if the 77U and the 70's are the same panel or not in regards to PQ.

i wouldn't be so quick to assume that they uk and us panels are the same

So I just got off with Panasonic's Plasm Concierge. The rep on the phone read the specs that she had in front of her and said the 77U's contrast ratio would be 10000:1.

I then told her that there was conflicting info both online and coming out of Panasonic and asked if she could "dig a little deeper" just to be sure. She put me on hold and came back and said she had a senior tech confirm that "the contrast ratio on the 77U is indeed 10000:1".

Hopefully this is truly the case.

I haven't read anything from people who have actually seen the set. Do you have links?
Neither have I. I was basing that statement off what D-nice said. I thought I had seen the same thing reported in one of the magazine articles posted, but after looking at it again they don't actually say anything.

So I just got off with Panasonic's Plasm Concierge. The rep on the phone read the specs that she had in front of her and said the 77U's contrast ratio would be 10000:1.

I then told her that there was conflicting info both online and coming out of Panasonic and asked if she could "dig a little deeper" just to be sure. She put me on hold and came back and said she had a senior tech confirm that "the contrast ratio on the 77U is indeed 10000:1".

Hopefully this is truly the case.

I myself just got off the phone with Panny cs....and they confirmed 10000:1. With a contrast that is greater, one can assume that the pic will be brighter and blacks deeper???? I know D-Nice stated this information earlier in the thread....he has always given me good information in the past.

-Rob

they confirmed 10000:1. With a contrast that is greater, one can assume that the pic will be brighter and blacks deeper????
-Rob

Yes, but this gets back to my question. With the PZ77 having 28 Billion colors vs the PZ700's having 68.7 Billion, what kind of viewing difference will that make?

Yes, but this gets back to my question. With the PZ77 having 28 Billion colors vs the PZ700's having 68.7 Billion, what kind of viewing difference will that make?

I totally agree with you...I think we all would! I had a 700U on order and went to a PZ77U. I could care less about the VGA...I switched my order with the expectation that the better picture was with the PZ77U...hope I made the right choice...I mean I still can switch it around, set not coming till 9/29

lets hope whoever quoted the 28 billion colors was wrong.

lets hope whoever quoted the 28 billion colors was wrong.

I got that from two different sources inside of Panasonic. Now, maybe they were just looking at the same screen of data, but one was in sales, the other in technical support.

Could that difference in color be the reason that we've been scratching our collective heads over the higher CR yet lower price? Is the color difference enough to justify the price drop (including the other subtracted features)

Still, it brings us back to the question of whether the end user will notice that difference. The answer for which has more to it than just a wait and see it in person. There's a technical answer there as well that I'm sure many in these forums could answer.

I got that from two different sources inside of Panasonic. Now, maybe they were just looking at the same screen of data, but one was in sales, the other in technical support.

Could that difference in color be the reason that we've been scratching our collective heads over the higher CR yet lower price? Is the color difference enough to justify the price drop (including the other subtracted features)

Still, it brings us back to the question of whether the end user will notice that difference. The answer for which has more to it than just a wait and see it in person. There's a technical answer there as well that I'm sure many in these forums could answer.


I'm just confused why they would drop that many colors on the screen. It would really make it inferior to the others. They told me the cost cut was in eliminating VGA port, speakers, and the piano gloss finish. The the guy who gave me this info didn't know the correct contrast ratio.

I'm just confused why they would drop that many colors on the screen. It would really make it inferior to the others. They told me the cost cut was in eliminating VGA port, speakers, and the piano gloss finish. The the guy who gave me this info didn't know the correct contrast ratio.

But this would fit into what we read earlier in this thread, that the PZ77's are really just 1080p versions of the PX77's which support 29 Billion colors.

just looked at the Viera brochure and it says, 5000:1 Contrast (HD Mode: 10,000:1 contrast) check it out on the Canadian website, on the right click on the viera brochure, it's a quarter way down, makes no sense to me.

But this would fit into what we read earlier in this thread, that the PZ77's are really just 1080p versions of the PX77's which support 29 Billion colors.

If this is to be the truth is the picture better/brighter on the 700U than the PX77?

alot of people are saying they confirmed it with such and such as Panasonic, but as someone mentioned they all could be reading the innacuratge press release/data.

on top of that though this is all a real headache, why couldnt any of this official info simply state what this tv's place is amongst the others? the fact that we're all wondering what the hell to do i think is a real failure on panasonics part (some would consider it a real success because everyone's so interested, but this really is starting to annoy me, hopefully the set will just be out soon and we can just verify through application, since it sounds like we wont get to the bottom of it before then).

This thread is driving me up the wall. I almost walked out with a 42pz700 at Frys this past weekend but it wouldn't fit in my car. So I went home to measure the other vehicle but decided to check AVS before I went out again. That's when I saw this thread. Now it's all back and forth which is a better panel.

I have problems with glare and the better contrast ratio sounds great, but if it's gimped on colors that puts me back in the same situation, which should I get, the 700U or the 77 series. VGA isn't a a consideration either, since DVI is so much better for a PC. My 24" Dell LCD sucks to play SD games on in my office, so I figured why not just go whole hog and get a big 1080p plasma...

just looked at the Viera brochure and it says, 5000:1 Contrast (HD Mode: 10,000:1 contrast) check it out on the Canadian website, on the right click on the viera brochure, it's a quarter way down, makes no sense to me.

LOL Okay this is whacky!

I work at best buy, and I saw the press release just as I was about to get the 700u..... but I checked or stock and saw that we had it and then ordered it today 9-10 -07..... it should be here by 9-13-07 according to our system.....so we will see what happens with this. I also think the panel is gloss not flat black....I mean i seen the pic's they look gloss to me not sure?

Hello chaps.

I have made some comments about this new set from Pany on the AV UK forum

my avatar is "nolive" same than on this forum and I live in japan so I assume the local NTSC version should be very similar to yours, guys, in the US

I mean the "inside" because the outside look quite different:confused:

http://www.avforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=612803&page=21

hope that helps

Olivier

Both of these displays are now are now on the www.panasonic.com web site and the tech specs list Displayable Colors as 68.7B and Contrast Ratio as 5000:1.

Hmmmm....

-George

Both of these displays are now are now on the www.panasonic.com web site and the tech specs list Displayable Colors as 68.7B and Contrast Ratio as 5000:1.

Hmmmm....

-George
That is why I think Panasonic did you resolve the solution of competing with Pioneer's big boys. What they aimed their market is to capture the low end consumer. Something had to give. However, the picture should still look good none of the less...

Chris

Both of these displays are now are now on the www.panasonic.com web site and the tech specs list Displayable Colors as 68.7B and Contrast Ratio as 5000:1.

Hmmmm....

-George
that's weird, we in Japan and the boys in Europe get the "upgraded" CR version and you not:confused:

one day I will understand what the marketing depts of these TV makers think about:rolleyes:

Both of these displays are now are now on the www.panasonic.com web site and the tech specs list Displayable Colors as 68.7B and Contrast Ratio as 5000:1.

Hmmmm....

-George

So I was looking at the two sets on the web site if the contrast is the same 5000:1, and the displayable colors are the same 68.7b...the picture between the 700u and 77U should be the same. The difference between the sets is the lack of VGA on the 77U? And new speakers?

I ask this because I am wondering if I should of kept my order for the 700U, instead of ordering the 77U.

-Rob

That is why I think Panasonic did you resolve the solution of competing with Pioneer's big boys. What they aimed their market is to capture the low end consumer. Something had to give. However, the picture should still look good none of the less...

Chris

thats what it looks like. it seems that this tv isn't an upgrade but the same panel without some features for the lower end market

I received the 700u last week and LOVE the picture though I am extremely unimpressed with the anti-reflective (per the panasonic website description) properties of the TV, in my opinion it does not live up to its name by any means.
From what my understanding is this new set will have a much improved anti-glare (per the panasonic website description) screen. Supposedly it is similar to the coating on the px77u, is anyone familiar with the performance of this coating?
I came super close to returning this set for and LCD due to the glare issues on this set but I really do love the picture. If this new set takes care of the glare issues, sign me up!!
I can certainly live without a pc input and cheaper speakers, I dont even use the speakers on the tv! :)

Do you know if it is HDMI 1.3

So I was looking at the two sets on the web site if the contrast is the same 5000:1, and the displayable colors are the same 68.7b...the picture between the 700u and 77U should be the same. The difference between the sets is the lack of VGA on the 77U? And new speakers?

I ask this because I am wondering if I should of kept my order for the 700U, instead of ordering the 77U.

-Rob

Looks like it... I guess this will calm the aggitated buyers that just got their 700's...

Straight from panasonic.com, here is the 50 inch specs:

http://www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/shop/Televisions/Plasma-TVs/model.TH-50PZ77U_11002_7000000000000005702

VIDEO: Yes
Screen Size 50" Class (50.0" diagonal)
Aspect Ratio 16:9 (Widescreen)
HDTV Compatibility 1 HDTV: 1080p/1080i/720p
EDTV: 480p

Displayable Colors Maximum 68.7 Bilion equivalent colors for darker part
Shades of Gradation 4,096
Pixel Pitch (H x V) 0.576 x 0.576 mm
Panel Type G10 Progressive 1080p HD Plasma Display Panel
Aspect Control for TV/AV Modes 4:3, Zoom, Full, Just, H-Fill
Native Resolution (Number of Pixels) 1920 x 1080
Contrast Ratio Up to 5000:1
Progressive Scan Yes
Video Noise Reduction Yes
Digital Comb Filter Motion Adaptive 3D-Y/C
Color Purity Optimizer (3D Color Management) Yes
Sub-Pixel Controller Yes
Motion Pattern Noise Reduction Yes
Studio Ref. Mode No
Pro Setting No
Digital Cinema Reality Yes
AUDIO: Yes
Speakers Full-range x 2(L,R)
Number of Speakers 2
Audio Ouput 20W (10% THD) (8 ohms, 70Hz-17kHz)
Surround Sound Yes
BBE® ViVA HD3D Sound No
INPUT/OUTPUT: Yes
Tuners Integrated ATSC
Photo Viewer Yes (SD Slot)
SD Card Slot Yes
CableCARD Ready 2 No
HDMI Input 2
Analog Audio Input (for HDMI) 1 rear
Composite Video Input 3 (1 side)
S-Video Input 3 (1 side)
Audio Input (for Video) 3 (1 side)
PC Input (RGB-VGA) No
Audio Input (for PC) No
Component Video Input [Y, PB(CB), PR(CR)] 2 rear
Audio Input (for Component Video) 2 rear
Composite Video Output 1 rear
Audio Output 1 rear
Digital Audio Out 1 (optical)
IR Out No
CONVENIENCE: Yes
EZ Sync™ HDAVI Control Yes, via HDMI interface
Video Picture Memory Yes
TV Guide® On-Screen Program Guide 3 No
One Tuner Split Screen Display No
On-Screen Display Languages English/Spanish/French
P-I-P Scalable Size Yes
V-Chip Program Lockout Yes
Built-In Closed Caption Decoder Yes
Timers - Sleep/On/Off Sleep (Off only)
Video Input Labeling Yes
GENERAL: Yes
Power Supply AC 120 V, 60 Hz
Power Consumption 693 W
Receiving System ATSC/QAM/NTSC
Operating Temperature 32°F - 104°F
Pedestal Stand Included
Dimensions (H x W x D) with optional speakers -
Dimensions (H x W x D) with pedestal stand 31.6" x 52.1" x 14.6"
Weight with pedestal stand 111.3 lbs
Dimensions (H x W x D) 29.7'' x 52.1'' x 3.92''
Weight 94.8 lbs


Everyone feel better now? hehehe :)

I am about to pull the trigger on a 50" Panny and have the same questions as you guys. So let's break down what we know about the differences between the 77U and the 700U

-Both feature CR 5000:1
-Both feature 68.7b color
-Both feature "anti-glare" coating, but perhaps it is different (better?) on the 77U?
-The price difference is approx $200.00
-The outside cosmetics are different (does the 77U have a shiny or "flat" finish?)
-77U does not feature a VGA connection.
-77U does not feature BBE® ViVA HD3D Sound (What is this anyway?)
-77U has only 2 speakers rather than 4 on the 700U.

Am I missing anything? I'm thinking that if I can save $200.00 while getting a superior antiglare coating, the 77U is the way to go as I don't care about the speakers or VGA.

Thanks for this thread, it would be impossible to figure all this stuff out without forums like this!

[QUOTE=shaggyfresh;11587662]I am about to pull the trigger on a 50" Panny and have the same questions as you guys. So let's break down what we know about the differences between the 77U and the 700U

---snip---
-Both feature "anti-glare" coating, but perhaps it is different (better?) on the 77U?
---snip---

Well, you cant say one is better than the other, go take a look at the current 720p sets with the anti glare...

So the 700's have anti reflective, the 77's have anti glare, very different...
I found that the anti glare tends to disperse light across the surface, making reflections more like blobs of light, where as the anti reflective coating seems not to smear the light from reflections but does minimize it somewhat.

SO... my take, one is not really better than the other, if you need the anti glare, get it.... I think percieve a lack of depth on the current 720p sets with anti glare compared to the 700's... I guess its subjective... Whatever you go with, I wouldnt buy sight unseen.... go see the sets... let your eyes decide.

I work at best buy, and I saw the press release just as I was about to get the 700u..... but I checked or stock and saw that we had it and then ordered it today 9-10 -07..... it should be here by 9-13-07 according to our system.....so we will see what happens with this. I also think the panel is gloss not flat black....I mean i seen the pic's they look gloss to me not sure?

I hope it does have a flat black bezel - the annoyingly reflective gloss bezel was a major negative to me on the 700. A few weeks back I saw a Sams Club proprietary model Panny with a flat (non-glossy) black bezel and it was a huge improvement, IMO>

Anti-glare VS anti-reflective, that is the question. Hmmmm, I don't trust my eyes at the store because every set seems to be calibrated or connected in different ways that rarely display their true PQ. Last time I was in Best Buy the nicest looking picture was on a 40-inch Sony LCD, but I'm still buying a plasma based on my research.

I also agree that the current "glossy" bezel in a negative. Makes the set look cheap.

Thanks for info guys, keep it coming. Any more opinions on the anti-glare/reflective coatings?

I am about to pull the trigger on a 50" Panny and have the same questions as you guys. So let's break down what we know about the differences between the 77U and the 700U

-Both feature CR 5000:1
-Both feature 68.7b color
-Both feature "anti-glare" coating, but perhaps it is different (better?) on the 77U?
-The price difference is approx $200.00
-The outside cosmetics are different (does the 77U have a shiny or "flat" finish?)
-77U does not feature a VGA connection.
-77U does not feature BBE® ViVA HD3D Sound (What is this anyway?)
-77U has only 2 speakers rather than 4 on the 700U.

Am I missing anything? I'm thinking that if I can save $200.00 while getting a superior antiglare coating, the 77U is the way to go as I don't care about the speakers or VGA.

Thanks for this thread, it would be impossible to figure all this stuff out without forums like this!

The CR certainly contradicts the press release.

Well Im glad I don't feel screwed over and was correct in that a lower cost set has less features. Looks like the 750U still has the best features.

I notice that the PZ77 sports a lower MSRP. Who pays MSRP? I wonder which one you can actually get for less? I got my 700U for a pretty decent price.

Well Im glad I don't feel screwed over and was correct in that a lower cost set has less features. Looks like the 750U still has the best features.

I notice that the PZ77 sports a lower MSRP. Who pays MSRP? I wonder which one you can actually get for less? I got my 700U for a pretty decent price.

looks like it goes 77 > 700 > 750

Just spoke with a sales person from Panasonic direct a little earlier and asked him them about the difference between the anti-glare verusus anti-reflective coating.

The individual I spoke with stated that the anti-glare screen is good for light that directly hits the screen from say an open window etc.
The individual then went on to say that the anti-reflective screen, on the 700u models for example has properties of the anti-glare screen as well as properties that keeps it from reflecting light sources that may be indirectly projected on to the screen, (ie. lamp or aquarium in the background of your room)
I am not sure what to make of this, I feel if I call back I would get a completely different answer and explaination from someone else! I would really like to get a definitive answer so I can decide if this tv is a better bet for someone like me with a bright viewing area.

I just checked my web site with regard to EPP...and they do have the TH-50PZ77 listed...but states "check back for price," but at least this set will be offered. I think I am going to cancel my order with BB...I know that I can save more $$ through my EPP on this set. I may have to wait a lil longer but the savings will be big enough.

Looks like the pz77 is about 10 lbs lighter than the pz700.

Looks like the pz77 is about 10 lbs lighter than the pz700.

I wonder if that is shipping weight or actual weight? If it was excluding the stand that could be 10lbs shipping weight. Or something like that.

That is just the weight of the panel (without the stand). My browser is not playing nice with the panasonic web site, so I can't make further comparisons.

That is just the weight of the panel (without the stand). My browser is not playing nice with the panasonic web site, so I can't make further comparisons.

the 77 has slightly smaller dimensions as well

This thread caused me so much confusion on if I should just keep the 700u coming friday or switch it out for the z77 that I just threw in the towel. My Pioneer 5010FD will be delivered instead.

I give up I am buying a CRT :P

RE weight differences, I'm guessing the woofers and passive radiator in the the 700U will add a few lbs and the non-low-profile design is heavier too with wider top and bottom rails.

Panny.com has a nice compar-o feature. Here's what I have been looking at since I'm snoopin a 42".

http://www2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/vModelComparisonResults?storeId=15001&catalogId=13401&catGroupId=75003&surfCategory=Plasma%20TVs&cacheProgram=11002&cachePartner=7000000000000005702&items=126557|112105|112106|177931| (http://www2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/vModelComparisonResults?storeId=15001&catalogId=13401&catGroupId=75003&surfCategory=Plasma%20TVs&cacheProgram=11002&cachePartner=7000000000000005702&items=126557|112105|112106|177931|)

RE weight differences, I'm guessing the woofers and passive radiator in the the 700U will add a few lbs and the non-low-profile design is heavier too with wider top and bottom rails.

Panny.com has a nice compar-o feature. Here's what I have been looking at since I'm snoopin a 42".

http://www2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/vModelComparisonResults?storeId=15001&catalogId=13401&catGroupId=75003&surfCategory=Plasma%20TVs&cacheProgram=11002&cachePartner=7000000000000005702&items=126557|112105|112106|177931|
Looks like no difference to me. I just don't understand Panasonic's strategy.

Chris

Looks like no difference to me. I just don't understand Panasonic's strategy.

Chris, My thinking is that now IT DOES make sense. What didn't make sense was Panasonic introducing an "entry level 1080p plasma" with increased CR, antiglare vs antireflection at a lower price while retaining the 700u in their lineup.

Now we see a reduced price with a generally equal or lesser featured model which saves you a few bucks.

Mark

Chris, My thinking is that now IT DOES make sense. What didn't make sense was Panasonic introducing an "entry level 1080p plasma" with increased CR, antiglare vs antireflection at a lower price while retaining the 700u in their lineup.

Now we see a reduced price with a generally equal or lesser featured model which saves you a few bucks.

Mark
Mark,
I like your thinking, but the biggest question arises; "What is the difference between the 700U vs. 77U?" You will see tons of posts like this, until it releases, but you will still get them even after the release.

I just wish Panasonic came out with a no doubter or no brainer unit that was comparable or surpassed the quality of the Pio's. It looks like Panasonic is content at capturing the affordable market, which is fine with me and other consumers. However, in all honesty, they could have lowered the MSRP on the 700U $200 and everyone would have been happy....

Just my .02 cents...

Chris

Bottom line:

-Cheaper units over all, but 1080P.
-Soon replacing the 720P sets.

Lets face it there is no other manufacturer who produces such a high quality unit and has it priced so low. Panasonic has the "FULL" business plan !! (Build a great product and have it priced where everyone is :confused: :confused: ) This is why they have always had about 50%-60% of the plasma market !!

Bottom line:

-Cheaper units over all, but 1080P.
-Soon replacing the 720P sets.

Lets face it there is no other manufacturer who produces such a high quality unit and has it priced so low. Panasonic has the "FULL" business plan !! (Build a great product and have it priced where everyone is :confused: :confused: ) This is why they have always had about 50%-60% of the plasma market !!

Chris, do you know when you will be getting these?

Also, are you inferring that these will be replacing the 720 sets, or is that something you have heard from higher up?

Anyone notice it's 693 watts?

Anyone notice it's 693 watts?

Considering the 700 is 695w and the 750 is 705w, that is kind of non-news. If you are worried about how much power that is, realize that plasmas burn about 50% of their rated usage in everyday use.

so i am guessing the 700 is a better tv than the 77, correct?

They are showing the discounted price at the Panasonic EPP site for these units now. Still can't be ordered though since the Add to Cart button is still hidden.

I recently found out we have EPP with Panasonic...I am sooooo cancelling my order at BB now...wow!

Chris, do you know when you will be getting these?
Also, are you inferring that these will be replacing the 720 sets, or is that something you have heard from higher up?
Not sure when they are coming in. It is pure logic, I wonder when the new units come out next year if 720P units will even be around.................

The CR certainly contradicts the press release.

So is it believed now that these units are 5000:1 or are we still not sure due to conflicting info?

I recently found out we have EPP with Panasonic...I am sooooo cancelling my order at BB now...wow!

Is the EPP a better discount than what you can find them online for ~1500 + shipping.

Is the EPP a better discount than what you can find them online for ~1500 + shipping.

No it wasn't that low...but it was from Panasonic directly with free shipping. PM me the place you saw it for that price.

-Rob

No it wasn't that low...but it was from Panasonic directly with free shipping. PM me the place you saw it for that price.

-Rob

hi, what is the EPP website and i was wondering how would you go abouts finding out if you qualify?

hi, what is the EPP website and i was wondering how would you go abouts finding out if you qualify?

EPP = employee purchase plan...you have to have it through your employer.

So is it believed now that these units are 5000:1 or are we still not sure due to conflicting info?

SMA: The 5000:1 ratio figure is what is listed on the Panasonic web site.

EPP = employee purchase plan...you have to have it through your employer.

i see. i have a friend working at panasonic. he said he could get the 50PZ700U shipped to my door for (dollar sign) 2095. our company also does business with panasonic and was just wondering if i can get the same deal myself, i would save him the time and just put in the order.

i also have another friend at hitachi. im hoping to get a good deal on their 55HDX99.

lets say they are the same price, which would you guys get?

thanks

No it wasn't that low...but it was from Panasonic directly with free shipping. PM me the place you saw it for that price.

-Rob


Yeah PM me as well please. That is a sweet price. The lowest I could find for the TH-50PZ77U was 2399.00

Thanks!

SMA: The 5000:1 ratio figure is what is listed on the Panasonic web site.

Yup, saw that, thanks. But they have made many mistakes before and since it contradicted with press release info I was wondering if we knew for sure. I think the 700u info was even incorrect when it first was posted on the Panasonic site earlier this year.

Yeah PM me as well please. That is a sweet price. The lowest I could find for the TH-50PZ77U was 2399.00

Thanks!

Maybe the lower number was the px77 not the pz77... sweet price indeed if correct. EPP price beats the number you mention above but no where near the other number. (this was for the 50 inch model)

Maybe the lower number was the px77 not the pz77... sweet price indeed if correct. EPP price beats the number you mention above but no where near the other number.

SMA: I'm kinda new at this. What is EPP?

Also, I found this blurb on another sight. Of note is the comments saying that "anti-reflective" is being repalced by "anti-glare" on the new PZ77 series. I still wish I knew what the difference was.

"Panasonic’s CEDIA booth featured two new value-priced additions to the company’s expanding line of 1080p-resolution plasma televisions. The 42-inch Panasonic TH-42PZ77U and the 50-inch TH-50PZ77U utilize the same panels used in the company’s 700-series of 1080p plasma televisions, and include two HDMI ports as well as an SD memory card slot for viewing digital images. Cost reductions of the new PZ77-series televisions were achieved by incorporating a different speaker package and eliminating the VGA port. Also, the 700-series’ anti-reflective screen coating has been changed to an anti-glare screen coating on the PZ77U-series televisions. Available later this month, the TH-42PZ77U and TH-50PZ77U will carry a suggested retail price of $1,799.95 and $2,799.95, respectively."

shaggy, EPP is the Employee Purchase Program. If you work for a big company you may have a deal with Panny where you can buy there stuff cheap. The site is only open to those that have access through their company. Still the prices are not that much better than the best internet deals or some sale prices.

AR is what is on the 700/750 and the AG is what is on the px77 and now the pz77. The AG is much more effective at reducing glare but it gives a different experience in my opinion. Best thing to do is find a store with a current px77u and see if you like it. Some don't like the look as it kind of disperses the light. Many like it especially if they are considering an LCD due to glare issues.

AR is what is on the 700/750 and the AG is what is on the px77 and now the pz77. The AG is much more effective at reducing glare but it gives a different experience in my opinion. Best thing to do is find a store with a current px77u and see if you like it. Some don't like the look as it kind of disperses the light. Many like it especially if they are considering an LCD due to glare issues.

Ok, thanks. That clears things up quite a bit!

i see. i have a friend working at panasonic. he said he could get the 50PZ700U shipped to my door for (dollar sign) 2095.

Thats a good price right there. IMO

Thats a good price right there. IMO

That is some good friend!

Maybe this is not a big deal does anyone know if there is a difference between the 77 and 70 in regards to the 1080p/24 not sure if this is a major factor

Is the EPP a better discount than what you can find them online for ~1500 + shipping.

I assume he is talking about the 42 incher. Otherwise, please PM me as well.

Might want to watch out posting prices :)

I have the 700u, great tv, glare reduction not so great. Have had it two weeks.
Waiting anxiously for the 77 to show up in the store so I can compare the glare reduction features.
The light from my 75 gallon reef tank does not play well with the glossy screen of my 50 inch plasma :)

I assume he is talking about the 42 incher. Otherwise, please PM me as well.

I beleive it would have to be the 42 aswell. But if not hell I would be game.:D

I work for Mazda and just looked at our supplier list and low and behold there is Panasonic of North America listed there. So now I just need to figure out how to get my EPP price for one of these.:D

I really don't see these replacing the 768p panels -- they're still significantly more expensive than the 768p ones and have lower rated contrast (though a number of other things are rated more highly). I don't believe that Panasonic suddenly decided to stop using those panels -- they're probably much cheaper to make as well.

The lower price points are still where most of the sales are made (see why Vizio is the #1 LCD maker now) -- and the 42PX75U is the only one that will make it below $1000 before next year.

Did anyone else notice the reference to PIP in the 77 specs? Here is the line
P-I-P Scalable Size Yes
I'm not sure exactly what that means, but even the 750 (which has split-screen capability) has a "no" on this line.

Manuals (http://service.us.panasonic.com/OPERMANPDF/TH42PZ77U.PDF)

Looks like there is a silver accent strip on the bottom of the panel. May be a nice touch but you really need to see it in person to judge.

Tech specs are at:

http://www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/shop/Televisions/Plasma-TVs/model.TH-50PZ77U_11002_7000000000000005702

I still can't figure out if it supports HDMI 1.3, but the 68.7B colors is
2 ^ 36, so that might be a hint.

I saw it at CEDIA and it has the best picture of any TV I saw at the show -- or ever for that matter. It was being driven by Blu-ray, and it was just awesome.

Ok, Just saw this post from a UK magazine. http://whathifi.com/television/ Read down 3 posts about new Panasonics.

Ok, Just saw this post from a UK magazine. http://whathifi.com/television/ Read down 3 posts about new Panasonics.

Oh great, just when I had my mind made up!

Ok, Just saw this post from a UK magazine. http://whathifi.com/television/ Read down 3 posts about new Panasonics.

Very curious what the MSRP will be on these new sets...

I saw it at CEDIA and it has the best picture of any TV I saw at the show -- or ever for that matter. It was being driven by Blu-ray, and it was just awesome.

Really? So it looks even better than the PZ700's? Just when i thought I had put this to rest in my mind and placed an order.

Does the Sept 29th release hold true? I am still getting more information from various sources. I wanted to see if you guys had more info...

I am going to continue to dig for more info...

Chris

Ok I have the tv in my house now.... so that sep 29th date is not 100% true....but then again I work at bestbuy.,,, next it is all black no silver at all......next it is a gloss black not flat like some would hope for.....but it is a nice tv

Ok I have the tv in my house now.... so that sep 29th date is not 100% true....but then again I work at bestbuy.,,, next it is all black no silver at all......next it is a gloss black not flat like some would hope for.....but it is a nice tv

Uhhhmmm! Pics please! Quit bragging right now.....lol! Which model? 42 or 50?

Chris

Here are some pic's not the best.....but my iphone tries lol.

Is that 42' or 50' ?

I cant tell from the pics.

Is that 42' or 50' ?

I cant tell from the pics.

42". We are jealous!

Chris

Are we getting a 58" version as well?

Are we getting a 58" version as well?

No talks as of yet! However, the 700U/750U will still be the current 58" models. I wouldn't be surprised if another price decrease would happen on the larger 58" models. The 65PZ700/750U should be released soon. Also I hope that the release of the 58PX75U becomes reality!

Chris

Here are some pic's not the best.....but my iphone tries lol.

Awesome! Now lets see it in action! One of my previous TV's was the 50pz750u, I returned it for an LCD since I was paranoid about IR...needless to say that I returned both the LNT4671 and 4681...and I have one of these on order...but I also have a Sharp LC52D64U on order as well. I'm contemplating which one to keep...

Ok I have the tv in my house now.... so that sep 29th date is not 100% true....but then again I work at bestbuy.,,, next it is all black no silver at all......next it is a gloss black not flat like some would hope for.....but it is a nice tv

Haha I'm pretty sure its just active in our systems but the DC's haven't started to roll them out yet...I work at MHT/BB too!

These set's are the 1080p version, of their 77U's counterparts. Same anti-glare, processing, and form-factor.

I like that sticker they put at the bottom. I know its common knowledge for most people on the forums but for the general public having that sticker saying anti-image retention hopefully should put some fears to rest.

Awesome! Now lets see it in action! One of my previous TV's was the 50pz750u, I returned it for an LCD since I was paranoid about IR...needless to say that I returned both the LNT4671 and 4681...and I have one of these on order...but I also have a Sharp LC52D64U on order as well. I'm contemplating which one to keep...

why did you take the 71 and 81 back .....I thought they were really nice but they are about 800 and six hundred more for us.........

Do we have concensus yet on what we think the CR's are of these new sets (5k or 10k)? I see the panny website still conflicts (5k:1) with many of the stories released on these sets.

Maybe this is not a big deal does anyone know if there is a difference between the 77 and 70 in regards to the 1080p/24 not sure if this is a major factor

They still don't support 1080p24.

Ok I have the tv in my house now.... so that sep 29th date is not 100% true....but then again I work at bestbuy.,,, next it is all black no silver at all......next it is a gloss black not flat like some would hope for.....but it is a nice tv

Mind me asking which state and city ?

Here are some pic's not the best.....but my iphone tries lol.

How does the anti glare perform on this tv? Any better than the 700u ?

Thanks for the info I also wanted to know what devices support 1080p /24 and is it a feature that is a must?

why did you take the 71 and 81 back .....I thought they were really nice but they are about 800 and six hundred more for us.........

the 71 in 52" is about 1k more...and the 81 in 46 is 900 more...anyways...they dealt very poorly with motion. I was used to gaming on LCDs before...but these were just bad. 71>81 as well...dont believe the hype.

Awesome! Now lets see it in action! One of my previous TV's was the 50pz750u, I returned it for an LCD since I was paranoid about IR...needless to say that I returned both the LNT4671 and 4681...and I have one of these on order...but I also have a Sharp LC52D64U on order as well. I'm contemplating which one to keep...

So why did you return the 71 then?? Was it so bright even dimmed proper that it burned your eyes in the dark in comparison to the plasma???

I like that sticker they put at the bottom. I know its common knowledge for most people on the forums but for the general public having that sticker saying anti-image retention hopefully should put some fears to rest.

True it's cool that they verbally state they have it, but all TV's do have it and have been using some sort of Anti-Ir tech for a while now, and as far as i can tell IR still does exist despite the feature being on most models (ken has claimed Pioneer is the one company that has none at all regardless of what you do).

bought the tv from circuit city in dallas this morning. will be delivered on sunday. it has also been added to their website and many of the stores in dallas show them to be in stock.

oops-forgot to specify the size. purchased the 42 inch.

bought the tv from circuit city in dallas this morning. will be delivered on sunday. it has also been added to their website and many of the stores in dallas show them to be in stock.

CC has it listed on their web site as 10000:1 though....:confused:

hdguru has a blurb on these sets from CEDIA... no mention of CR when he lists the differences from the 700u.
http://hdguru.com/?p=179

Panasonic website states 5000:1 cr, I trust their site more than Circuit City's

Panasonic website states 5000:1 cr, I trust their site more than Circuit City's

No doubt!!

Panasonic website states 5000:1 cr, I trust their site more than Circuit City's

Yeah, of course. But the Problem is that Panasonic's own press release said 10000:1, provided in the first couple of posts in this thread. So obviously Panny made a mistake in either the press release or the website. I have seen errors in both from Panny in the past so an error does not surprise me in either place.
http://www2.panasonic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prModelDetail?storeId=11301&catalogId=13251&itemId=182438&modelNo=Content08302007042401446&surfModel=Content08302007042401446

It is seeming more and more like these are 5000:1 sets so the major item to consider is whether one likes the AG coating or not and can deal with the lesser connections/speakers for the reduced price.

BTW, here is a post from someone who attended CES2007 in Jan. Regarding a comment from a Panny rep on why the AG coating was not put on the 700/750u.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9436765&highlight=glare#post9436765
If CR is still 5000:1 on the pz77u's, I wonder if anything has changed to allow the AG coating (instead of AR) on the pz77u's. If nothing has changed to allow it then I would wonder if PQ has suffered (from the 700u/750u) to put the AG coating on the pz77u's.

I have a 50px77u that has problems :( so it is going back tomorrow to CC. When I got home, saw that CC had the pz I went up to the store and they will now be delivering a 50pz77u tomorrow :). I will post pics and my opinion when I get it.

By the way the 50px77u measured 6000:1cr on/off and 4000:1cr Ansi, pretty much out of the box as I never bothered to really calibrated it as it was going back. I will test the pz out of the box to see how it compares.

Measurements where done with a spyder2 and HCFR

By the way the 50px77u measured 6000:1cr on/off and 4000:1cr Ansi, pretty much out of the box as I never bothered to really calibrated it as it was going back. I will test the pz out of the box to see how it compares.

Measurements where done with a spyder2 and HCFR

I would very much love to hear your impression of the anti-glare coating:D
I currently have a 700u (had less than 30 days ) so I would like to see how the two sets compare! I wish they had some in the stores in my area so I could see one in person.

I would very much love to hear your impression of the anti-glare coating:D
I currently have a 700u (had less than 30 days ) so I would like to see how the two sets compare! I wish they had some in the stores in my area so I could see one in person.

Well I had a 75u that has the anti-reflective coating and returned that for the 77u with the anti-glare coating.

For me with big windows across from the TV the 77u is much better and why I did not go for the 700u (it was cheaper). I have a 46" LCD and that has the least amount of reflections, but the PDP has a much nicer PQ, I am glade Panasonic came out with this coating so I can in-joy the better image (IMHO).

Any owners have any thoughts on the 42? Im conisdering returning my Sharp 42 62U LCD for this set. My local CC has this set and Im still well within my 30 days...and while this set is nearly 500 more than my LCD I think it might be worth the price.

Seen this set in CC today. Not bad, not bad at all :)