Pioneer Elite PRO-FHD1 Plasma: Coming Attraction
By Shane Buettner   •   September, 2006

• $8,000
• 50" Plasma
• 1920x1080
• Key Connections: Dual HDMI inputs, DVI input, component and RGBHV inputs

Features We Like: First 1080p plasma!, accepts 1080p/24 native sources, excellent connectivity with dual HDMI and component inputs, ISF 3c calibration modes, Pioneer's latest host of features intended to improve plasma performance

Features We Miss: Expensive, monitor only- no HD tuners

1080p on-the-wall anyone? That's right, Pioneer Elite's PRO-FHD1 (Full HD?) is the first production plasma that lives at the top of the HD food chain, providing full 1920x1080 resolution. Although it's priced like a statement piece, it's also outfitted like one with an outstanding feature set. In addition to talking the resolution talk, the FHD1 walks the walk by accepting the 1080p/24 signals native to Blu-ray and HD DVD. While some LCD have crossed the 1080p threshold, that technology doesn't match plasma's black level and contrast capabilities, and is often plagued with blurred motion fro response time issues. The marriage of 1080p resolution, and plasma's sexiness and technological superiority in these key respects makes this one of the year's most anticipated products. At retailers now.