The “Break it Down” Blog

Since VIZIO has more or less dominated the low-end plasma market they are now moving up into the previously Panasonic and Pioneer-dominated mid-level Plasma market with some new kick-ass announcements from CES.

First in the lineup is the VP60, at $2800 this 1080p set with 4 HDMI inputs as well as Silicon Optix HQV Processing is poised to kick some mid-stream-plasma ass. In addition to the VP60 there were 720p versions of 32″ ($689), 42″ ($999) and 50″ plasmas as well rounding out the offering at a rediculously awesome $1699 price point that still includes a Silicon Optix REON HQV image scaler providing a superior image experience both with broadcast and disc-based media. The Silicon Optix HQV chip is also capable of processing two standard-definition (SD) or high-definition (HD) channels at the same time, providing full resolution picture-in-picture functionality.

In addition to the Silicon Optix chips, Vizio will also be providing 10-bit (billion color) image processing in these sets leaving us scratching our heads as to why we should pay more?

Some analysts think the actual glass of the Panasonic and Pioneer sets may be more advanced, leading to slightly higher contrast ratios and deeper colors, but at almost twice the price, would it be worth it? We think not.

Full Announcement

VIZIO VP605F 60″ 1080P and VP504F 1080p with SILICON OPTIX HQV (Hollywood Quality Video) Processing VIZIO jumps into Full High-Definition 1080p performance with a bang in 2008, launching an all new series of ultra high-performance Plasma technology displays. While the new VIZIO VP605F boasts 60″ of large screen high definition 1080p performance to capture the imagination of even the most discerning of consumers, the 50″ VIZIO VP504F packs an enhanced punch with integrated Silicon Optix’s REON HQV chip, ensuring the sharpest and most detailed image possible. Silicon Optix HQV’s advanced noise reduction removes noise and artifacts caused by signal compression from cable and satellite providers. Since the HQV’s REON chip can process two full channels of HD or SD channels, this allows users to achieve full resolution with picture-in-picture images. With advanced technology built into both models, both Standard Definition (SD) and High Definition (HD) sources will bring out even the finest details. VIZIO’s new 1080p plasma HDTV’s, the VP504F and VP605F are compatible with all of today’s popular input resolutions [1080p, 1080i, 720p, 480p and 480i] and use an integrated, DTV-compliant HD/QAM tuner so users can enjoy high definition and regular television programs with or without paid high definition service. Both models are significantly brighter than previous VIZIO plasma models boasting an amazing contrast ratio up to 30,000:1 and include four HDMI v1.3 inputs, two of which are available as a side access HD Game port. Independent RGB adjustments allow users to fine-tune the sets’ color settings plus a new remote control makes it even easier to operate TV and other system component functions. Additional feature sets include true four-field motion adaptive de-interlace, 10-bit diagonal interpolator which removes jagged or stair step artifacts from de-interlaced video sources and true 10-bit processing which output 4:4:4 color processing which renders more than one billion colors.

Update #1: For folks finding this post wondering where the Vizio sets are why they haven’t been released or reviewed yet, it looks like Vizio was originally planning to release the set in June (according to the CES announcement), but I guess due to slowed markets and possible excitment levels, it is rumored that they are holding them until the holiday season. The good news? We just entered the holiday season!