Westinghouse Digital LVM-37W1 1080p LCD Monitor - Product Preview

The Westinghouse Digital LVM-37W1 is a 37-inch 16x9 LCD monitor with 1080p native resolution capability. Up until recently, it was rare to see an LCD television in a 37-inch screen size. In addition, with most Plasma and LCD televisions offering only (852x480) 480p or (1280x720) 720p native pixel resolution, an LCD television with (1920x1080) 1080p capability is definitely a significant advance, especially at an affordable price point of $2,299. For more details, read below.

The LVM-37W1 has a screen size of 37-inches, 16x9 aspect ratio, and 1920x1080 native pixel resolution, from which the video processing of the LVM-37W1 allows for images to be displayed in the 1080p format. Screen brightness is estimated at 550 cd/m2, with a contrast ratio of 1,000:1. The image response time is 12ms. Screen viewing angle is up to 176 degrees. Lamp Life is estimated at 50,000 hours. What the numbers mean is that the LVM-37W1 can hold its own with other high definiton LCD TVs.

The LVM-37W1 accepts a variety of signal inputs, including standard resolution 480i and 480p sources, as well as 720p and 1080i high definition signal sources. In addition, this unit offers Progressive scan with 3:2 pulldown, aspect ratio conversion, cross color suppression, PIP (Picture-In-Picture), and Freeze Frame. These features add additional performance and flexibility to the LVM-37W1's basic platform.

Video settings for the LVM-37W1 include: Brightness, contrast, hue, saturation, sharpness, color temperature, aspect ratio, and backlight control. These settings are the standard settings available on most 16x9 digital televisions and monitors on the shelves today.

The LVM-37W1 offers extensive inputs, including: Standard Composite, S-Video, 2 HD component inputs, RGB/VGA/PC Video, 2 DVI-HDCP inputs, 5 Audio inputs (Dual RCA), and Audio-in via miniplug. These input options give the user a lot of flexibility, especially with the increased amount of source devices that that have component and DVI or HDMI connectivity.
Note: Even though the LVM-37W1 does not have HDMI connections, DVI connections are compatible with HDMI connections via adapter connector.

The LVM-37W1 does not have an on-board tuner; an external tuner is required to receive television channels. However, this unit accepts standard cable, high-definition cable, satellite, or over-the-air tuner, that has at least composite video and audio outputs. If you have an HD-compatible tuner, cable, or satellite box, you will have the best image result. However, you also have the option of using the standard resolution tuner that may be provided in a VCR, DVD Recorder, or TIVO unit as well.

Athough most users would be connecting their audio sources through a home theater system, the LVM-37W1 does have onboard audio capability, via a built-in 20-watt stereo amplifier (10wpc) with detachable speakers. In addition, this unit has standard analog stereo outputs for connection to an external audio system. In addition, onboard audio settings include bass and treble, balance, sound mute, and speaker on/off (internal/external). These features are very convenient for some situations.

The LVM-37W1 has an onscreen setup menu that can be accessed by the provided remote control or controls on the right side of the monitor. The importance of being able to access control functions at the set itself as well as the remote cannot be underestimated. If the batteries on the remote go dead, or if the remote is lost or damaged, you can still access all needed functions from the side panel of the LVM-37W1. In addition, all inputs/output connections are side panel mounted for convenience.

The LVM-37W1 has an MSRP of $2,299 and is available now.

LCD television technology has leapfrogged its way into being a viable alternative to both standard CRT-based and Plasma screen televisions. Up until recently, it was rare to see an LCD television in a 37-inch screen size, especially at this price point.

In addition, with most Plasma and LCD televisions offering only (852x480) 480p or (1280x720) 720p native pixel resolution, an LCD television with (1920x1080) 1080p capability is definitely worth a look, especially now with the availability of DVD players with video upscaling via DVI and HDMI connections (HDMI is adaptable to DVI) and the coming of the Blu-ray and HD-DVD formats.

If you have been putting off the purchase of a flat panel television due to the price and the image quality, when compared to a standard CRT or rear-projection television, something like the LVM-37W1 might deserve your attention.

For more information on the LVM-37W1, including access to a downloadable owner's manual, go to the Westinghouse Digital Website.