LG Intros First Plasmas With Integrated HD-DVR

LG Electronics said this morning that it has launched the industry's first plasma TVs with integrated high-definition DVRs. Available in 50- and 60-inch models, the plasmas feature a 160 GB HD-DVR built into the cabinet that is capable of recording up to 13 hours of HD programming or 63 hours of digital standard-def programming. The DVRs incorporate an automatic time-shift feature, which continuously records in one-hour intervals. Other features include slow motion rewind and forward capabilities and instant replay. Viewers are also able to organize recorded programs and set up repeat recordings of their favorite show.

The plasmas feature LG's fifth-generation ATSC VSB/QAM tuner, which receives terrestrial digital HDTV and unscrambled digital cable, as well as analog broadcast and cable tuners. They are also digital cable ready through the use of CableCARDs. Another feature is an integrated 9-in-2 multi memory card reader, allowing users to view still images and listen to digital music, such as MP3 files, through the display. Combined with the DVR, users can store digital photos or music from their digital camera or MP3 player onto the hard drive via nine different formats of memory cards, files that can further be organized and saved for future viewing and listening. The DVR also is capable of creating a music photo album, allowing for stored photos to be accompanied with music in a slide show.

The new plasmas, models 50PY2DR and 60PY2DR, utilize LG's proprietary XD engine technology that the company says takes the low resolution of analog signals to near high-definition levels by improving brightness, contrast, detail and enhancing color as well as reducing signal noise. They are built to last 60,000 hours and come with a 5000:1 contrast ratio and 1000 cd/m2 of brightness, in addition to HDMI inputs.

MSRP is $14,999 for the 60-inch model and $7,999 for the 50-inch.