Hitachi 55HDS69 Television

a better value can be had from its stepup model

By jon  Sep 14, 2006 | 2 out of 2 found this Hitachi 55HDS69 review helpful

Pros: best image details from a TV this big

Cons: value proposition not as strong as 55HDT79

This is a high performance plasma from a highly respected maker. It has arguably the highest pixel density among all the bigger size plasma TVs (50" and up) thanks to its WXGA technology. Its black rib pixel structure helps improve the black lev...els on this TV as well. But a better value can be had from its step-up model 55HDT79. 55HDS69 is sold in national big-box stores like CC (Circuit City) and BB (Bestbuy). 55HDT79 is sold in smaller local specialty stores. I found this in my local H.H Gregg. There are two most significant upgrades on this model vs. the 69. One is that it is simply better looking. The 69 looks a bit boring with all-silver casing and speakers whereas the 79 has black speakers. The other is that the 79 allows you to have an optional power swivel stand that can be controlled by a remote (BTW, the remote on this is a lot better than the cheap one on the 69) whereas the 69 can only have an optional manual stand. I played with that power stand in the store. It is pretty cool. The 79 also has a digital photo input via USB. It will allow you to see the pictures on this big screen directly from a digital camera. All these upgrades can be had for about $200 more. It is a no-brainer to me. Read more Less