Philips 32PFL7762 Review

Designing iconic TV sets has proven to be beyond most tech companies, but not Philips. Its Ambilight range perfectly mixes style and performance and the 32PFL7762, while lacking the wall-splashing light show, is its slimmest and arguably best-looking LCD yet.

As is also becoming standard for Philips, it's jam-packed with features. There's a swivel-stand – handy, as off-axis performance isn't great – and the welcome combination of a rear-mounted subwoofer and stereo speakers under the screen.

A good engine
The omens are good when we look under the bonnet too. The 32PFL7762 can't display 1080p – no disaster on a screen this size – but its familiar Pixel Plus 2HD engine (assisted by Digital Natural Motion) will happily downsize a full HD picture to 720p. That signal can come over one of three HDMI ports – so no more juggling cables between your high-def DVD player, HD set-top box and games console.

Unfortunately, picture quality from disc is a slight let-down. Black levels are excellent, although it can't quite squeeze enough detail out of the darkest shades. But it's overall insight that really disappoints: it just can't get as much information out of close-ups or panoramas.

The colour balance is accurate and realistic, although skin tones can appear ruddy. That Digital Natural Motion is an acquired taste too.

Excellent off-air performer
It's far harder to take issue with the 32PFL7762's TV performance, which is bright, vivid and sharp. Sound is excellent too, with film soundtracks delivered in a detailed, forthright and organised way.  

So if style, sound and off-air capability are paramount, investigate this Philips set. But if it's complete all-rounder you're after, Sony' s KDL-32P3020 and Panasonic's TX-32LMD70 are better bets.