Pioneer has gone back to black with the release of its 8th-generation plasma display range. The aptly named 'Project Kuro' (the Japanese word for black) features four screens with 80% deeper black levels than anything we've seen before. Pioneer believes only true black levels can expose the class leading detail, contrast and colour that their plasma panels are renowned for.
The latest range features four large screens offering both 720p and 1080p high-definition compatible resolutions. The standard models include 42in (PDP-428XD) and 50in (PDP-508XD) screen sizes while the Full HD models include oversized 50in (PDP-5080HD) and 60in (PDP-LX60HD) models.
As well as varying high-definition compatibility, all screens support 24p – allowing HD content to be displayed exactly as it was filmed offering smoother motion and no audio distortion. Each screen features integrated Freeview and 3 HDMI inputs, which allow you to connect several HD sources simultaneously.
Pioneer's latest PictureDrive image processing is the underlying technology behind this all important black depth, which supports impressive contrast levels of 20,000:1 for the 1080p screens and 16,000:1 for 720p screens. If you fancy taking a gamble on a new plasma TV, always bet on black.
The two 720p screens (PDP-428XD, PDP-508XD) are available this month while you'll have to wait until September for the two 1080p screens (PDP-5080HD, PDP-LX60HD). Prices haven't been confirmed but expect them to start at around £1700.
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