Panasonic has been the industry leader in plasma televisions over the last few years. Their sets are consistently rated among the best HDTVs and their top of the line plasma models have been viewed as benchmark TVs. The 2011 ST30 series is their lowest end 3D plasma and comes in the following models:

• Panasonic TC-P42ST30 – 42 inch model
• Panasonic TC-P46ST30 – 46 inch model
• Panasonic TC-P50ST30 – 50 inch model
• Panasonic TC-P55ST30 – 55 inch model
• Panasonic TC-P60ST30 – 60 inch model
• Panasonic TC-P65ST30 – 65 inch model

When comparing the Panasonic TC-PST30 to the higher-priced GT30, the former gave out better gamma, but similar black levels. It did lose some color saturation and brightness, though. Meanwhile, the accuracy of its color was a setback competing with the likes of LG and Samsung.

Design

For 2011 Panasonic has revamped their plasma line up. The designs are sleeker with sharper edges and a more minimalistic look. Overall they appear much more modern and cleaner than last year’s sets. The ST30 has a dark frame and an understated look that will go with any décor. The panel is 2.2” deep which while being slimmer than previous Panasonics, isn’t quite as thin as Samsung’s offerings. It comes with a low profile stand that is capable of swiveling.

Features

Panasonic continues to use active shutter technology in their second generation full HD 3D plasmas. The ST30 series is their least expensive to include 3D. However, glasses are not included with the set and Panasonic is still charging around $150 per pair. (Note that last year’s glasses are compatible and due to Samsung recently dropping the price of their glasses to $50, it is speculative that Panasonic may follow suit.)

This year Panasonic has expanded their video streaming services and array of applications. It is now called Viera Connect and includes Amazon streaming, Netflix, Skype, Pandora, Twitter, Facebook and You Tube. A variety of games are also available. Other prominent features are a Wi-Fi dongle, anti-reflective filter, and “Motion Smooth” dejudder processing.

The Panasonic TC-PST30 has two HDMI’s on the rear and one on the side panel. While it lacks any VGA inputs, it does carry two USB ports and an SD card slot on the side panel.

Performance

The ST30 has excellent overall picture quality. Although picture controls aren’t very extensive, it produces very deep blacks and high contrast. It lacks the THX mode of the step up GT30 series and color accuracy could be better. It performs highly in terms of video processing and correctly handles 1080P/24 content. The Motion Smooth feature successfully eliminates judder but does produce the soap opera video effect. Bright room image quality has improved and blacks and colors remain more consistent under ambient light. Off angle viewing and picture uniformity are also top notch.

In terms of 3D quality, Panasonic seems to have reduced the amount of crosstalk and flicker compared to last year’s models. However, blacks and colors do tend to wash out a bit when compared to brighter LED lit LCD sets. A dark room is still a necessity when it comes to viewing 3D content on a plasma screen.

Here is a video review by CNET:

Conclusion

The Panasonic ST30 series hits a sweet spot in terms of price and performance. Its new design is an improvement over past Panasonic plasmas and the overall picture quality is excellent. Its ability to handle fast motion and video processing capabilities, along with deep blacks and great contrast make it an all around performer. Throw in an easy to use internet suite with lots of content and improved 3D capability and this set is the complete package for someone who doesn’t want to break the bank.

Promotion valid till August 31, 2011 * Enter Promo Code AMEXTV10 at checkout. ** Multiple promotions allowed.

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