While most TV manufacturers have struggled through the years to deliver acceptable black levels in their flat-panel TVs, Pioneer cruised over that speed bump with its plasmas a few generations back. But that was apparently just the start. The company's new Kuro models, including the 50-inch, 1080p PDP-5010FD reviewed here ($5,000 list price, about $4,000 street), use a revamped panel design that aims to display the darkest shadows ever seen on a flat-panel set. We're talking black holes here — the complete and utter absence of light.
Key features found on the Pioneer Kuro PDP-5010FD 50-inch plasma HDTV include improved video processing and scaling compared with that of previous Pioneer models, HDMI 1.3 inputs with Deep Color support and CEC-control, a 72-Hz Advanced PureCinema mode for displaying 1080p/24 input signals from high-def disc players with even cadence, and a new screen filter to reduce screen glare in bright rooms. There's also an array of features for eliminating potential burn-in effects from videogames or scrolling tickers, as well as a detachable bottom-mount speaker — something that was missing from last year's award-winning PRO-FHD1 1080p plasma monitor.
Like previous Pioneer plasmas, the 5010FD has a slim, gloss-black bezel devoid of visual clutter. Even the front panel's blue LED power indicator can be dimmed. Control buttons are tucked away on the TV's left side, while a convenience input with component-video and USB connectors occupies the right. The set comes with an extremely sturdy table stand, or you can order a wall mount directly from Pioneer for $200.
