Hitachi debuts new plasmas at CEDIA

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At the CEDIA Expo in Denver Hitachi displayed its new 2008 line of Plasma HDTV’s.

The new sets feature high gloss Japan black and high gloss crystal frames with manual swivel stands or unique remote controlled power swivel stands. The new UltraBlack Panels boxed cell structure produces darker blacks and the new proprietary phosphor formulations deliver industry leading deep, rich colors.

The new PictureMaster VI digital video processor features the second generation of Hitachi’s Reel60 technology, a patented innovation that eliminates “judder” for the ultimate in smooth, clear motion. The new HDTVs also debut a new feature for film enthusiasts called Cinema48. Working exclusively with 24p HDMI inputs, Cinema48 provides viewers with the same visual timing and feeling that they experience in movie theaters.

Available in two screen sizes (42-inch and 50-inch), additional features of Hitachi’s 2008 plasma HDTVs include Energy Star qualification with an automatic ambient room light sensor, deep-black stripe filters for exceptional real world contrast and industry leading anti-reflective properties, the ability to disable or dim the power indicator light, a game mode and a TV Guide On Screen Interactive Program Guide.

“CEDIA provides the ideal venue to showcase our new line. These new plasmas have ameliorated features that we are excited to provide to today’s consumer,” said Daniel Lee, vice president of marketing for Hitachi Home Electronics (America). “We are providing precise technological advances, along with the aesthetic features, that consumers are demanding.”

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U.S. Pricing and Availability

The A, S, V and X Series are available now. The Hitachi 2008 Plasma Display Panels are priced as follows.

• 42-inch A-Series (model P42A202): $1,399
• 50-inch A-Series (model P50A202): $1,599
• 50-inch A-Series (model P50A402): $1,599
• 50-inch S-Series (model P50S602): $2,199
• 50-inch V-Series (model P50V702): $2,499
• 50-inch X-Series (model P50X902): $3,199