Samsung PN50B550 (Black)
50" black 1080p plasma HDTV
463651229
Enhanced. Elevated. Ecstatic. E-Panel
Whatever the "E" in Samsung's new E-Panel technology stands for, you can be sure that it's a synonym for smooth, vivid, high-performance video reproduction from an HD plasma panel. While FilterBright panel construction minimizes glare on the PN50B550's 63", full 1080p panel for improved viewing, even in rooms with ambient lighting, 600Hz Sub-Field Motion serves up moving images with enhanced realism. Because the illusion of motion used in movie and television programming is achieved by flashing a series of still images, or frames, on the screen in fast succession, the smoothness and naturalness of motion depends upon how many frames are shown and how fast they appear. Frame rates for film and television content range from 24 frames-per-second to 60fps (also expressed in Hertz). 600Hz Subfield Motion technology flashes each frame ten times, meaning that up to 600 frames are shown every second (when viewing 60Hz content). The result is nothing less than dramatically improved continuity between frames which translates into seamless, lifelike motion. All your favorite movie and TV programming appears even smoother thanks to the PN50B550's incredibly fast 0.001ms pixel-response time.
E-Panel doesn't stop there . . .
Not only does the PN50B550's E-Panel technology deliver stunningly lifelike motion and reduced panel glare, but it also combines two other technologies for improved fast-action performance and enhanced detail. First, 1080 Full HD Motion technology is specifically designed to maintain improved resolution during faster motion sequences, such as in sports or action-movie programming. Second, Mega Dynamic Contrast Ratio technology provides improved, purer black-level and color performance for sharper detail and more vivid colors.
Styled with a Touch of Color
Samsung frames the PN50B550's widescreen, 1920 x 1080p plasma panel with a Touch of Color-enhanced bezel. For the B550 series, Samsung infuses the edges of the black bezel with a gray accent, adding style and sophistication to the standard all-black bezel offered by other manufacturers.
Get your game on
Thanks to the PN50B550's Game Mode, you can achieve an improved gaming experience at the touch of a single button. Game Mode enhances dark areas, sharpens the picture, speeds up image processing response, and enhances the audio on your favorite games. In essence, picture and sound quality are optimized for the gaming experience.
Speaking of audio . . .
For a surprisingly full audio experience from a 50" plasma HDTV, Samsung has designed the PN50B550 with two 15W speakers enhanced by SRS TruSurround HD technology. SRS TruSurround HD creates an immersive, feature-rich surround sound effect from just two speakers. Experience rich bass, detailed high-frequency audio, and clear dialogue.
Get tuned in
Geared up and ready for the Digital Television Transition (the government mandated switch to all-digital television broadcasting) the Samsung PN50B550 comes equipped with digital ATSC and QAM tuners. These digital tuners make receiving and enjoying digitally broadcast content — whether from the air or from cable or satellite — easy and worry-free.
ENERGY STAR of approval
Seeking to meet your demand to reduce energy use and preserve the environment, Samsung has made sure that the PN50B550 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 HDTV helps ensure both are given an easier load to bear.
HDMIncredible
Bringing you the absolute best in connectivity, Samsung's PN50B550 features four 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 passes 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.
Review
Superb Picture (March 05, 2010)
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(5/5.0) |
Reviewed By: John M. - Valencia, CA
I did a lot of comparison shopping before I finally settled on the Samsung PN50B550. The TV has lived up to my every expectation in showing a super crisp picture that does not have the artificial 3D-ish surreal look that a lot of the HD LCD TVs have. I know some people may prefer that look, but to me its distracting. I also preferred the superior ability of plasma to handle fast motion sequences without artifacts.
The clear swivel base is both functional and attractive to look at, and the TV was easy enough to set up. One complaint I have though, is that the instructions on how to install the securing tether were very poor. A minor point until it causes someone to either not install it or install it improperly and then the TV falls on someone.
Other features of the TV seem well done, the remote is easy to understand, the on screen controls are pretty intuitive and the picture out of the box is very good. So far I havent seen a need to get it calibrated.
Overall I give this TV an A.
Review
Great TV! (February 22, 2010)
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
Reviewed By: Steven M. - Deer Park, TX
Beautiful picture! No problem with glare in a room with lots of windows. DVDs, Wii, Xbox 360, and DirectTV all look great. I like Samsung remotes, unlike some folks, so no problem there. Lots of connections and HDMI a plus. No problems with shipping or delivery. All went smooth. A great TV at a good price!
Review
Samsung 55 (February 20, 2010)
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(5/5.0) |
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(4/5.0) |
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(4/5.0) |
Reviewed By: Dennis L. - Cedar Rapids, IA
This item was a known reduced price due repair purchase. The shipping container was stated to be damaged but usable. The TV arrived in the damaged shipping container and upon removing the TV a small dent was discovered in the metal back cover exactly in-line with the damage on the container. It would appear the damage from the previous shipping incident had not been repaired as stated as the damaged container had been taped over and was intact. I contacted Vanns and was told that I didnt have a recourse. I wrote a complaint online and was contacted by a senior customer service person who imformed me that the information I had received was in error. Vanns would not discount the already deeply discounted purchase price, but would replace if I returned the unit at my expense. I stated that I was not totally pleased, however the dent was not a functional concern and the recipient of the gift was not even aware of its presence. I informed Vanns that I was really only interested in if they would ultimately stand behind their products. I will purchase from Vanns again.
Review
Samsung PN50B550 (February 18, 2010)
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(4/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
Reviewed By: Michael M. - West Greenwich, RI
Out of the box, this was a great TV. Im going from an old Sony XBR crt TV HD, and once I figured out how to move that one out of the way, the seamingly feather-weight plasma went in its place. It was pretty easy to set up, but I didnt realize that the optical out only supports 2.1 audio from HDMI sources like a BD player. Since I have an older AV receiver, there were no HDMI inputs, so I had to go optical out from BD player to receiver, and then HDMI video only from BD player to TV.
This TV really is amazing - sports events really come to life and BD is simply amazing.
Review
Samsung PN50B550 (February 14, 2010)
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
Reviewed By: Brian S. - Clifton, NJ
This is an awesome TV with great picture and sound. Easy set up and great on-screen menus. Vanns.com helped with accessible and knowledgeable sales staff. An excellent buying experience with follow-up emails at time of shipping, information regarding shipping, and help with choosing proper accessories. Would definitely choose Vanns and Samsung again.
Review
Excellent value, Excellent product, Awesome Service (February 12, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Scott P. - Oconomowoc, WI
This TV has plenty of inputs the picture quality is outstanding, and it functions perfectly with a laptop, PS3, Xbox 360, and HD cable box connected.
Review
Samsung PN50B550 (February 12, 2010)
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
Reviewed By: Barry F. - Friendswood, TX
Pros
- Excellent picture quality
- Easy to set up
- Value
Cons
- Screen glare, picture better in dark room
The TV was easy to set up, though it takes 2 people to get it on the stand, but any large TV would require that.
The picture quality is excellent, and easily adjustable. The best picture for the price. Youd spend $500 more for an LCD with as good a picture.
Review
Great product and perfect service! (February 12, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Tim M. - Phoenix, AZ
Vanns price was the absolute lowest on the entire internet for this TV at the time I purchased it. A few days later, their price went even lower! Vanns honored their price match policy and processed a credit, making what I ultimately paid unbeatable and it was delivered sooner than expected!
Ive had this TV for two months now and have no complaints what so ever. I do use some amount of caution in regards to the plasma image retention issue and find that when it does occur, it clears up by itself very quickly.
This unit has many adjustments for all aspects of viewability making it very possible to tune in the picture quality thats just right for anyone.
Great product and perfect service!
Review
Great TV (February 12, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Pete M. - Myrtle Beach, SC
So far so good. TV was easy to set up right out of the box and picture was perfect with very little adjustments at all. Highly recommend, especially for the price.
Review
Wise choice. (February 12, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Wanda V. - Normal, IL
I felt a little reluctant to order this TV over the internet, but it was a very wise decision. I received great communication from Vanns and the shipper. The TV arrived in perfect condition. The picture is really good and it was easy to get set up with a little help from the family. We had looked at this TV at a local store but they were out of stock on every choice we wanted. No problem with Vanns.
Review
Would have been a good tv if it had arrived in good condition (February 12, 2010)
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(3/5.0) |
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(3/5.0) |
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(3/5.0) |
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(1/5.0) |
Reviewed By: Gary Q. - Harrisburg, NC
They tried sending me two of these tvs but they both arrived cracked. I guess NC is too far from their ship base of Montana. So I cancelled the order and ended up getting it cheaper elsewhere. So it worked out. Friendly customer service though.
Review
Outstanding Purchase (February 11, 2010)
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Reviewed By: Charles P. - Valparaiso, In
The Samsung PN50B550 Plasma has a beautiful picture with vibrant colors. It was easy to set up and I have a VCR, Playstation2 and Blu-ray connected. I purchased a plasma specifically for my basement because the room is large and dark. I would not recommend a plasma for a room with a lot of natural light as the glass screen is very reflective. Make sure you completely remove the TV from the box upon delivery to ensure it is not damaged. My first TV was delivered damaged at the very bottom. Easy to miss because the screen is covered in plastic. I called Vanns right away and they were extremely helpful. This was my first purchase from Vanns and the customer service was excellent. I have had the Samsung since December 15th, 2009.
Review
Samsung PN50B550 HDTV (February 11, 2010)
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
Reviewed By: Jeff S. - Allentown, PA
I thought about the decision to purchase online vs. brick and mortor for a week or so. Read online store reviews and checked pricing. I decided to give Vanns a try. Jeff answered my questions and didnt try to rush me. I felt confident and placed the order. Everything went very smoothly. No problems. They explained what I should expect during the shipping process. Arrived on time. The Fedex delivery person was also very nice. He said they do a lot of business with Vanns. I wont hesitate to purchase from them again.
Review
SAMSUNG PN50B550 (January 25, 2010)
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
Reviewed By: R. H. - HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT
THIS WAS THE BEST PURCHASE OF A 50 PLASMA HDTV THAT ANYONE COULD ASK FOR...NO HASSELONLINE SHOPPING....GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE...THE PICTURE IS CLEAR AND CRISP ...THE CONTROLS ARE USER FRIENDLY AND I WILL RECOMMEND VANNS.COM TO ALL MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY. THANKS!
Review
Great TV (January 06, 2010)
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
Reviewed By: David N. - Billings, MT
This t.v. is one of the best I have owned. The picture is sharp and the colors are spot on. Game mode is a little dark but that is to be expected as they are protecting the plasma from burn in. Sound is twice as good as the sound on my Sharp Aquos but I still hooked up a surround sound. The picture on this Plasma is quite a bit sharper than my Aquos LCD but reflects more light. It is a great buy but if I could afford LED I would have preferred it over plasma because of the reflective screens on plasmas. I would buy again if given the choice. I also purchased the samsung BD-P3600 blue ray player excellent match for the TV.
Review
First time buyer (January 04, 2010)
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(5/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
Reviewed By: Lawrence B. - Casper, Wyoming
Being a first time buyer of a flat screen, I sought to buy the best. 50 inch Samsungs are the highest rated. Excellent picture quality.
Ease of use and easy instructions are the big one for me. Cannot think of anything negative about this purchase. I would recommend this one for anyone seeking a better viewing experience.
Review
F. PICKETT (September 18, 2009)
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(4/5.0) |
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(5/5.0) |
Reviewed By: freeman p. - steger, il.
COLOR AND DETAILS ARE AWESOME ON THIS TV. VERY GOOD REMOTE & MENUE. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS TV.
MY ONLY DISLIKE IS THE LED OFF LIGHT ITS JUST TO BRIGHT.
Comparison Specifications
- Screen size: 50" class (49.9" diagonal) plasma panel / full HD 1920 x 1080p resolution
- Aspect ratio: Widescreen 16:9
- Progressive features: 600Hz sub-field motion technology / E-panel technology / FilterBright anti-glare technology
- Best video inputs: 4 HDMI with Anynet+ (HDMI-CEC) (3 rear, 1 side)
- Other inputs: 2 component video + L/R audio / 1 composite video / 1 USB v2.0 / 1 PC (RGB) + PC audio / 1 RF
- Audio enhancements: SRS TruSurround HD
- Built-in speakers: 15W x 2
- Mounting options: Table stand included / wall-mount compatible
- Remote control: Included
Additional Specifications
- Outputs: 1 digital optical audio output
- Wide Color Enhancer 2
- Game Mode
- Tuners: ATSC / NTSC / QAM
- ENERGY STAR qualified
- Response time: 0.001ms
- Intelligent power saving
- Mega Dynamic Contrast ratio
- 1080 Full HD Motion
- Touch of Color gray bezel
Manufacturer Specifications
- Green design lead-free components
- V-Chip parental control
- Trilingual on-screen displays: English / Spanish / French
- Favorite Channel list
Dimensional Specifications
- Dimensions: 48.8" W x 30.2" H x 2.9" D, without stand / 48.8" W x 32.4" H x 11.4" D, with stand
- Weight: Approx. 70 lbs, without stand / 84.7 lbs, with stand
Samsung PN50B550 Warranty Details
1-year parts and labor warranty with in-home service
