Now playing: Netflix, Pandora, Twitter, and more
Sure, the marquee for most of today's HDTVs lists features like a Full HD resolution, high-speed frame rates, and startling contrast ratios. Panasonic's G25 series, on the other hand, brings you an entirely different feature presentation. If you're used to thinking that HDTVs are just for watching TV programming and movies, think again. Sporting expanded VIERA Cast technology, the TC-P54G25 allows you to experience a wide range of online video and audio content without leaving the couch. All you have to do is use this plasma HDTV's rear ethernet port to connect to your existing internet connection. Then, VIERA Cast technology instantly allows you to access online movies, music, and more from special online partners. Stream movies and TV shows from Netflix (using your pre-existing subscription, of course). Keep everyone up to date by tweeting on Twitter. Listen to an online radio station customized to your particular tastes with Pandora. Watch the latest video craze on YouTube. Heck, you can even keep up with the latest in sports news via FOX Sports online. And then, whenever you get around to it, you could, you know, watch a Blu-ray movie or something like that, too. (Important: Note that Netflix streaming capability will not be enabled until late July 2010.)
I see web people (on Skype, of course)
So, when we were discussing the TC-P54G25's VIERA Cast internet capabilities, we used the phrase "and more" a few times. Well, here's the "more" part. Not only does this Panasonic HDTV's ethernet-based DLNA capability let you tap into online movies, music, photos, and radio, but it also lets you keep in touch using Skype video calling. This free online service (at the introductory level) allows you to make online voice and video calls to other Skype users around the world. And instead of crouching around your laptop to chat with a friend, you can kick back in luxury in your living room, enjoying a clear view on a 54" plasma panel. With VIERA Cast, home theater is about more than just movies.
Behold . . . the Full HD, 600Hz, THX-certified panel
There's nothing like a little internet connectivity to spice up your home theater entertainment. But let's be honest, when you get right down to it, you're investing in a 54" plasma HDTV to achieve a cinema-quality viewing experience right at home. And the TC-P54G25 is happy to oblige. Not only does this Panasonic plasma flat panel offer a Full HD 1080p display resolution — ideal for HD viewing from sources like Blu-ray Disc — but it also sports a native contrast ratio of 5,000,000:1 for deep, inky black levels that ensure exceptional detail and color purity. And this VIERA panel is just getting started . . . For incredibly smooth, fluid, and lifelike motion, even when watching fast-action sports and movies, look to 600Hz subfield motion technology. This technology increases frame-rate conversion from 24 fps, 30fps, or 60fps to an astounding 600fps, delivering seamless transitions between frames. Further, THX certification guarantees a viewing experience that meets the highest film and theater standards. Finally, an anti-reflective filter minimizes panel glare for a clear, clean HD image in any viewing environment.
Screen your latest shots
Ever since you invested in your new digital camera or HD digital camcorder, you haven't been able to stop shooting or filming. Whether snapping quick shots at a party with friends, or filming your child's leading role in the school play, it's been a rare moment when your finger wasn't on the REC button. While you love shooting, your only frustration is having to share all your latest pictures and footage with friends and family on your tiny computer screen. If only there were a better venue . . . Enter the TC-P54G25 from Panasonic. Featuring VIERA Image Viewer technology, this HDTV allows you to convert the plasma display into a 54" photo gallery or movie screen. And all you have to do is remove the SD card from your digital camera or digital camcorder and insert it in the TC-P54G25's built-in SD card slot. That's it. From there, you can quickly begin screening footage or browsing photos with your choice of five display effects and five audio tracks.
Connection-city
Sure, what's on the front of an HDTV (i.e. the screen) is central to the level of your home theater experience, but equally important is what you find on the back. We're talking connections. Today's world of home theater demands that any A/V component be equipped to mesh perfectly with the rest of your home theater. Components that don't offer sufficient connectivity options deliver sub-par performance. Bringing you optimal system-connectivity, the TC-P54G25 offers a diverse array of audio and video inputs. Topping the list, of course, are three HDMI inputs. Ideal for use with HD satellite and Blu-ray Disc, HDMI allows transmission of Full HD video and 7.1-channel lossless audio along a single cable. Further, an ethernet port offers access to a wealth of online audio and video content, while two USB ports allow you to view photos or listen to music on flash-memory devices. And then, offering connectivity to DVD players, gaming consoles, and other devices, this plasma HDTV sports two component-video and two composite-video inputs. Finally, a PC input allows you to convert the TC-P54G25 into a 54" computer monitor.
ENERGY STAR efficiency
Seeking to meet your demand to reduce energy use and preserve the environment, Panasonic has made sure that the TC-P54G25 meets the U.S. government's standard for ENERGY STAR qualification. What does the ENERGY STAR qualification mean? ENERGY STAR is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency. For the family or homeowner, energy efficient choices can reduce energy consumption and expenses by up to one third while resulting in similar savings of greenhouse gas emissions, without sacrificing features, style or comfort. ENERGY STAR helps you make the energy efficient choice. When a product boasts the ENERGY STAR qualification, this means the product meets stringent government standards set by the EPA and US Department of Energy for conserving both energy and the environment. So whether you are concerned for the environment, your pocket book or both, this appliance helps ensure both are given an easier load to bear.
The advanced connectivity of HDMI
Bringing you the absolute best in connectivity, Panasonic's TC-P54G25 features three HDMI connections. HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is the only interface in consumer electronics that can carry both uncompressed high-definition (HD) video and uncompressed multi-channel audio in all HD formats including 720p, 1080i and even 1080p. Your incoming media content comes in a variety of sizes, resolutions and formats, and with that in mind, HDMI systems automatically configure to display that content in the most effective format. Since HDMI carries all channels on video and audio, there is only one cable to plug into any HDMI-enabled source and display device. No more complicated cable set-up when installing your home theater system, and no more ugly cable mess behind your components. HDMI supports standard, enhanced, or high-definition video, plus multi-channel digital audio on this single cable. Also, HDMI is fully backward-compatible with DVI. (Please note that a physical adapter, sold separately, is needed to make the conversion from HDMI to DVI.)
Your HD lifeline
High Definition Multimedia Interface, or HDMI, is the only home A/V connection that allows for both Full HD 1080p video and 7.1-channel studio-quality audio to be passed along a single cable. In other words, in order to take full advantage of your home theater's high definition potential, you need to HDMI cabling to link HD-capable components. It's only natural that you might have questions regarding how best to outfit your personal HD system. Vann's sales representatives are here to explain all of your options. Call the 800 number at the top of this page for expert advice.
