Customer Reviews

Toshiba REGZA 42HL167 42-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV

5 star:		(71)
4 star:		(18)
3 star:		(5)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(21)

 

 

For the first year, Toshiba has badged all of its LCD HDTV models as "Regza" which stands for Real Expression Guaranteed by amaZing Architecture. And amazing architecture is what you first notice when you get this 42" 1080p LCD HDTV home. The piano black finish is currently in vogue with high end electronics manufacturers, but upon close inspection the black is actually covered with metallic flakes that give it a deep luster and shine. The soundstrip speaker with SRS Wow technology and formidable bass reproduction is recessed neatly along with an accompanying brushed stainless steel strip along the bottom. The TV is solidly connected to a swiveling base which extends several inches in front of the stand in a large crescent shape to lend stability to the set when it is placed on a tabletop or shelf. The inputs are neatly recessed in the back facing downward for ease of access if and when the set is mounted on the wall. All in all, when turned off, this TV serves as a cosmetically appealing centerpiece to a living room or den.

Be prepared: when connected to SDTV (or basic terrestrial cable), the channels appear grainy and washed out. This is because HDTV's all display SDTV fairly poorly; they are equipped to handle much higher resolution sources. So, when connected to a 480i source such as SDTV cable, the picture is poor compared to a CRT TV, whose native resolution is 480 lines of resolution. Prepare, when upgrading to any 1080p set, to purchase a cable or DrectTV package with HD channel programming. If you're hesitant to upgrade to HD broadcasting, probably put off the purchase of any HDTV capable of displaying 1080p, and either buy a larger CRT TV or an HDTV only capable of handling 720p.

Toshiba REGZA LCD TV's incorporate what is called CineSpeed into their panels. This essentially means the set employs an 8 milisecond or faster response time for refreshing the image displayed on the screen. For fast moving situations like sports, or high contrast movies with action packed sequences, this feature is invaluable. All previous ghosting associated with LCD TV's has been eliminated, and even bright white objects moving across a dark background look smooth, true to their color, and leave no trail. DynaLight dynamic back light control makes the black truly black, and the whites vivid (almost comparable to plasma TV's with 10,000:1 contrast ratios). Other features unique to this Toshiba Regza TV are ColorBurst wide color gamut and PixelPure 3G 14-bit internal digital video processing. These options, together, make the picture displayed from 1080 p sources unbelievably clear and flawlessly reproduced without overscanning.

In response to a review posted for this TV, VGA is a virtually obsolete connection. Most high end computers use either DVI (which is also mediocre) and higher quality media center PC's with Windows Vista premium use an HDMI compatible graphics processing unit with an HD rated display. Few TV's allow a 1080p source from a VGA connection. XBox 360's downfall was not using HDMI compatible hardware - this is additionally where the Playstation 3 far exceeds the XBox 360 in terms of hardware with built in blu-ray that incidentally looks outstanding in 1080p with this TV, but also using HDMI as a connection method. This set is comparable in terms of response time and dynamic contrast ratio to the higher priced LG 42" 1080p model, and beats it in terms of picture tweaking options. The Sharp 42" Aquos 1080p HDTV has a horrible (1,200:1) contrast ratio and is almost not worth purchasing unless you plan on sitting directly in front of the TV. Also, if you plan to sit 2 inches in front of your TV, you probably aren't intelligent enough to own one - the difference between 720p/1080i and 1080p is only noticeable based on how close you are sitting to the television and 2 inches would be close enough to notice jagged edges in even ultra XHD or cinema digital which displays beyond 1080p. Close enough, all smooth lines look jagged and that is the nature of the pixel - pixels are square, therefore all curved lines are composed of a series of straight edges.

Also, LG's comparable 42" 1080p HDTV is less than 100 dollars more expensive than this Toshiba, and for the record, LG is only in its second generation of LCD TV's whereas Toshiba is in its 3rd generation (this is the first year for the Regza badge).

If you're upset about the component inputs and the VGA not handling a full 1080p signal, buy a 1080p upconverting DVD player (under 100 dollars now) with an HDMI output (I suggest Samsung's DVD1080P7 which has an optical out if you want to hook up to a home theater system). This TV has 3 HDMI inputs and can more than handle all your AV needs. In all, this Toshiba model outdoes Sony's XBR Bravia, Sharp's Aquos, LG, and Samsung models. The dynamic contrast ratio, coupled with the Pixel Pure 14bit processing power produces a sharp, clear picture with unbelievable smoothness, clarity, and vivid realistic color reproduction. In addition, this is one of the only TV's in the under $2,000 range that includes a remote that can be used as a practical universal remote. Some techies love their fancy touchscreen universal remotes a la Logitech Harmony 1000, but this remote is solid, has great range, and is a fitting match to the solid TV it is paired with. Not at all the cheap hunk of plastic you get with the current Sharp LCD TV's on the market.

The price of this TV, which encompasses a design quality shared with $3500 Toshiba Regza sets, unique Toshiba features like CineSpeed and Colorburst, 1080p native resolution, and 3 HDMI inputs make it the best value under $2,000 and comparable to much more expensive sets. Whether an audiophile or just someone looking for a great affordable LCD HDTV, this set delivers.

I was finally ready to purchase a HDTV and went down to the local Best Buy because the the great financing of 2 yrs same as cash and sales they had this Memorial Day. I was interested in the 42" Sharp Aquios LCD 1080p before I was on my way down to the store to view all TVs in person. When I got there I saw the other tv I i was slightly interested in to compare it to the Aquios was the Toshiba REGZA 1080p and was blown away by the resolution of the promo they were playing on HD DVD, the price and of course 3 yrs same as cash pan they had on Toshiba tvs. Needless to say I was sold! I got the TV for $1519(minus tax) score. I am a big fan of Toshiba from the TV I replaced which I bought in winter of 2000 which has never given me problems. While I was there I picked my Toshiba HD-A20 1080p HD DVD palyer to replace my original DVD player that I had purchased back in 1999 and paid $400 for, and agian never gave me any problems. Viewing both "Phantom of the Opera" and "Corpse Bride" were amazing at 1080p and I'm a stickler on resolution. Needless to say I side with Toshiba there products and HD DVD. I am at this moment extremely happy with my purchase.

I bought my Tv 2 weeks ago after much research...

It totally exceeds expectations when viewing TRUE HiDef 1080I
(1920 X 1080 pixel channels)
It has SIX viewing modes so you can always get full screen projection
whether 480I or 1080I

Though it is "cable ready", in order to utilize it's 1080I capabilities,
I had to upgrade to a HD cable box (includes TIVO and 2 tuner recording which is great) $75.00 mo FULL SERVICE
The 480I digital channels vary widely in picture quality from POOR to VG**
The 1080I HiDEF channels are truly STUNNING

*note: the cable guy used a coaxial cable from the new box to the TV
I suggested he use a HDMI cable and the difference was noticable
** I have UPGRADED my HDMI to HDMI cable @eforcity
*AMAZON (6ft $3.12) EXCELLENT for all needs
It has significantly reduced the cable noise and improved
480I reception

This is a TV built for the future with FULL 1080P capability

The 3 HDMI ports are v1.3
*I confirmed this with tech at Toshiba
(they are listed as 1.0 on many sites)
This is IMPORTANT

If you combine it with a TOSHIBA A-20 upconverting 1080P HD-DVD player HDMI v1.2a($320) or
SONY Playstation 3 HDMI v1.3($500) or BETTER ...
WAIT until October 31st, when the NEW Blu-ray players
or the 4th generation HD DVD come out,
you will have a terrific system for under $2000 that will not be obsolete in 3 years and utilize the full 1080P potential of this incredible HDTV
*Make sure to use 24 bit/pixel high quality cables

It was ready out of the box:
The ONLY adjustment I have made is to increase the Bass setting to 65
(the sound is VERY GOOD)

note:
I purchased a MONSTER HDTV Calibration Wizzard on EBAY for $2.50
I have NO green tint and the blacks are true...as are ALL the colors
I made NO color adjustment as was recommended, only contrast and brightness

I could not be more satisfied

UPDATE 9/3/07

It is clear from the reviews and my own experience that this HDTV does NOT
distinguish itself with older equipment, broadcasts in 480I, OR with antenna
Even the broadcasts I get on cable in 1080I from my local stations
are not 100%
HOWEVER
When using the HDMI connections in FULL 1080I
from national networks: Discovery PBS FOOD NETWORK ESPN NBC ABC CBS etc

IT IS INCREDIBLE !!!!

For movies or gaming in 1080P you will need a upgraded DVD player or
playstation 3 (check specs & compatibility)

*currently available on AMAZON for $1300 delivered - A STEAL

Just purchased this TV in May '07 and am very pleased so far with the purchase. I read the previous review and I guess I can see that it's not the most premier picture in the HD universe, but it is still pretty outstanding.

The key here for 5 stars is value - for around 1600 with shipping or tax you're getting a 42" flat panel with 1080P (built for the future). It's also Toshiba's 3rd generation technology whereas many of the Bravias and Sharps are still on their 2nd generation.

So, while maybe not the top 1% of HD pictures and at times you see some pixelation (very minor, possibly due to the inferiority of the source) it costs less than half of some of those monitors. If you're looking for great value this is the TV - remember that you'll pay about $125 for nice HDMI cables to hook it up properly and you can get the whole package for a great deal.

First time product review so, be kind.

The Toshiba Regza 42HL167 is a phenominal value. I wish that were all there is to say about the set, but, it's not. So, let me continue: You're getting 1080p resolution, an over-the-air tuner (most still don't have a built-in tuner), plenty of high-quality connections (including HDMI, DVI, Component, etc.), and the ability to fine tune all of your color settings to the nth degree. When you put all of that along side Amazon's prices, and your bang for the buck get's huge.

That said, why didn't I give this set 5 stars? Well, that's pretty simple. Out of the box, the picture on this TV looks pretty horrible. On [...] there's a pretty lengthy discussion of the green push on these sets. Basically, many of these sets seem to have their green levels jacked through the roof. It affects the quality of your dark levels and even just some simple shade. It really makes some of your first movies look horrible. To sum up, I'm docking this TV a star for such a bad out of the box experience. I don't think you should have to spend an hour+ callibrating your set to get a good picture. Fine tuning, sure... but these color settings weren't even in the ballpark.

Anyway, after spending some quality time callibrating the set, the picture is just gorgeous. Even using my Xbox 360 to upconvert my DVDs, the picture is great! After all was said and done, I couldn't be happier with the TV. The picture is great! Halo3 in 1080p is a beautiful thing, and, all of the content I throw at this TV looks fantastic... I just can't wait to put HD DVD or Blu Ray.

To sum up, as long as you're willing to spend some time working on your picture, you'll end up with a fantastic looking TV. If playing with your settings is something you're not interested in, I'd suggest you stay away.

Awesome picture quality. Don't know what else I can say, so I won't spend a lot of time going through this or that, it's what you see that's important. I have 5 HDTVs and this is as good as any of them. High recommendations for this Hi res unit.

I have no financial interest in anything I review.

Purchasing a TV was a huge deal for me. I didn't want to buy a lemon but I also didn't want to completely break the bank. So I ignored the budget TVs (Westinghouse, Olevia, etc.) and I tried very hard to ignore the luxury TVs (Sony XBR2). I basically had my sights set on a Samsung, a Sharp or a Toshiba. After reading hundreds of reviews on each model under each brand, visiting electronic stores, and talking with money-burning friends, my research pointed me towards the regza.

Although samsung has a very vibrant color, life expectancy has been very short for some friends and design wise, they are the ugliest (IMHO). Although the sharp has the deepest black and said to have the greatest contrast ratio, there has been problems with gray banding and reviews came up a little over par. What convinced me on the Regza was the price.

The shiny black frame looks amazing on my tv stand, the picture quality is fantastic, the built-in speakers are impressive, 3 hdmi. VERY happy with it.

Only probs I came across were: 1. takes probably 5 seconds to warm up and turn on (which does not bother me in the least bit) 2. no picture in picture (my ADD will have to deal with it) 3. the VGA connection does not work with my computer (granted my video card is old, I noticed reviews on the web saying other VGA PC connections didnt work either. I think the tv is very specific as to what resolution it will allow to pass through. BUT I plugged in a MAC via DVI to HDMI and it popped up fine and looked absolutely amazing. tempted to buy a mac mini and just stick it next to my consoles for web browsing.)

Keep in mind this was the first time I purchased an HDTV and don't know much about them. I owned this TV almost a month before returning it. Overall, it's a good TV. Picture clarity is excellent and the sound is good too. I've read that LCD's have a difficult time accurately showing blacks but in my opinion the black levels are awesome. It's got a lot of features such as parental controls, the ability to add channels to a list of favorites, and built-in NTSC/ATSC/QAM tuners that will allow you to pick up unscrambled over-the-air channels without having to get digital cable or an antenna. I was able to pick up NBC, ABC, CBS, WB, FOX, and ESPN all in HD using Comcast. There are 3 HDMI ports and a VGA port if you want to connect your PC.

Here are some things that bothered me. You cannot set a clock on this TV. I thought it was odd because I'm used to having it on my Panasonic SDTV. Also, if you change the TV to a channel you want to watch later and leave it on that channel for a minute before you turn the TV off, when you turn it back on it will not always be on that channel. A big complaint I have about the TV is most images have a greenish color to them during certain dark lighting situations on the screen. Skin tones and yellows also have a greenish color. I thought it was a problem with the TV but I went back to Circuit City and looked at the two Toshiba Regza's they had on the floor, the 42" and 47", and they both looked the same way. I didn't notice it before I bought it because the 42" I looked at was playing a HD-DVD demo disc so it was difficult to get a good idea how things would look because the action on the demo was so quick. A good way to see what I'm talking about is to get a sales person to turn on ESPN HD on some of the TV's and compare the "ESPNHD" banner on the left and right sides of the screen. With the Toshiba, you will see it is a greenish color. The sales person admitted to seeing the problem and was not able to remove the greenish look from the TV. I also tried to remove it myself but had no success. If I lessened the greenish color it would hurt other colors or the image quality. I just decided to take it back. If I'm going to pay a lot of money on a HDTV I want to be completely happy with my purchase. Take plenty of time to look at this TV before you buy it.

Before placing review I read others and there were some that said it was a good picture but needed a lot of adjustments etc. I am a senior, I purchased my unit from Circuit City. Wife and I brought it home (back of truck) unloaded it I had it hooked up and running 20 minutes tops with DVD player/recorder and Dish network setup. I did have to spend time getting colors etc adjusted. I have never purchased any electronic equipment that did not need adjusting to suit my needs. When I was done I had a TV that has very good SD viewing through dish and I just added a HD-DVD player to the mix and it is mind boggling. I have no complaints.

This television has the best picture I have seen anywhere. The sound is excellent. I have it hooked to Dish HD and am pleased with that too.
Don Langdon
Ozone AR