The Best-Selling 42-Inch Sylvania LCD HDTV LC420SS8: A Review

It used to be the case that plasma was the only option you had for a large-screen, flat-panel television. Thanks to improvements in the technology LCD, flat panels have gotten larger and larger while the prices have dropped. It isn't uncommon to find a 40-plus-inch LCD flat panel for under $1,000. Now that the holiday season and black Friday, the nation's biggest retail sales day is around the corner we can expect to see some fantastic deals soon. One such example is the Sylvania LC420SS8 a 42" LCD high definition TV as some websites have started to show it appearing in the Sears black Friday circular. Because of its massive selling potential I have decided to get one myself and let you know how it performs, that way you'll know what kind of deal you're really getting on the day after Thanksgiving.

Styling: 3/5

Picture: 4/5

Sound: 5/5

Value: 5/5

Overall:4/5

Product Overview:

First of all this television has a great look. The bezel frames the screen with the standard glossy black finish and has a very sturdy stand. Even in the brightly lit stores this televisions has a very bright appearance compared to some of the other televisions displayed. The picture is presented in 1080p which is considered "Full HD". The screen size at 42 inches is large enough to present a noticeable difference between the 720p and 1080p resolutions.

The picture as I mentioned is bright and displays a high definition broadcast very well. The standard definition presentation is about average. Often consumers find themselves needing a small home theater system to complement their new flat panel, but the speakers perform quite well on this set, in fact I would say better than average for its price range.

If you're the type that really enjoys tweaking their picture to get that perfect color saturation then this may not be your set. There isn't a tremendous amount of features available on this television compared to some of the other offerings in the price range. There is however plenty of connection options including a PC connection that works like a dream as well as component and HDMI connectivity.

Product Value:

Currently averaging online and in retail stores at just below $1000 this television is a great deal. If black Friday predictions are correct then the 42" Sylvania LC420SS8 LCD TV will be a steal for less than $700. If you're looking for your first high definition television or your first flat panel then this is a great introduction set. Even if you're a pro it will be hard for you to turn down a deal like this.