Further, the LT-P468W features Samsung's latest-generation DNIe (Digital Natural Image engine) picture-enhancement circuitry, delivering improved contrast, detail, color, and video motion optimization. While 1,080p (1,080 lines, progressively scanned) is the format the broadcast industry is moving toward with more and more programming appearing every day, the set's internal high-quality scaler can handle any video input format and display the signal in the set's native high resolution.

Its impressive 800:1 contrast ratio makes it capable of rendering extremely deep blacks, and its high brightness (500 cd/m2) produces bright, vivid images even in bright rooms. And, with its industry-leading 12-millisecond pixel-response time, the LT-P468W is nothing if not ready to handle the fastest-moving video sequences, from video games to action films. Horizontal and vertical viewing angles each extend up to 170 degrees, making sure everyone has the best seat in the room.

LCD screens offer a number of benefits over CRT monitors and televisions, including general ease of use, freedom from eye strain (no screen flickering or radiation emissions), quiet operation (no high-pitch "flyback" noise, an issue with CRT TVs), accurate image geometry (no curvature distortion or susceptibility to magnetic interference from, say, speakers), long screen life (with no risk of image burn-in), space savings, and light weight/easy positioning. (Perched atop its round swivel base, the set weighs in at less than 100 pounds.) LCDs also tend to be cheaper and, to some eyes, slightly more natural looking than their plasma flat-panel counterparts, which usually "spec" higher (higher brightness, higher contrast ratio).

The LT-P468W accepts standard-definition 480i inputs, enhanced-definition 480p signals, and full high-definition 720p and 1080i/p. The set connects to a personal computer through its RGB (15-pin D-Sub) input, letting you surf the Web, check e-mail, or play QuickTime movies right on your television. Use the split-screen/PC PIP option to view multiple sources simultaneously.

To connect the monitor to devices such as DTV set-top boxes, satellite receivers, DVD players, game consoles, or camcorders, use either of the set's digital-video inputs--DVI (Digital Visual Interface) or HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface)--for a direct digital connection, or take advantage of its dual high-definition component-video inputs. Other inputs consist of 2 each composite- and S-video inputs, 1 RF input, and the above-mentioned PC input, each with its attendant audio jacks.

Other outstanding features include a sleek cabinet housing armed with impressive stereo speakers from JBL powered by 15 watts per channel (x 2); the latest SRS TruSurround XT technology (for exciting stereo and bass enhancements and a simulated surround experience); sleep and on timers; V-Chip parental control; closed captioning; and an auto volume leveler to minimize jarring level differences between, say, programs and their commercials.

The DVI-HDTV interface (with HDCP copy protection) enables an all-digital rendering of video without the losses associated with an analog interface. DVI supports up to 24-bit digital RGB data for each pixel.

Like DVI, HDMI is a lossless, uncompressed, digital audio/video interface to link the set with any compatible AV source. HDMI supports standard-definition (SD), enhanced definition (ED), or high-definition (HD) video, plus multichannel digital audio--all using a single cable. It transmits all ATSC HDTV standards and supports up to 8-channel digital audio, with bandwidth to spare to accommodate future enhancements and requirements.

What's in the Box
TV, remote control, remote batteries, swivel base, a user's manual, an AC power cord, and warranty information.