Review of LG 32LH30: Entry-Level LCD TV

LG 32LH30 photo

Those first-time LCD TV buyers might want to try the LG 32LH30. At 32-inches, this is just the right size to put in a small bedroom and just the average price for those who are simply curious to try an LCD TV. This LG model is one of the most appealing among the basic LCD TVs in the market. Here’s the breakdown of the features:

Color Accuracy. This is one major plus of the LG 32LH30. The colors of the images produced by this model are highly accurate which gives a more realistic feel to the viewing experience. The primary and secondary colors are almost excellent enough, but with the help of a few tweaks on the color adjustment controls, the colors just become perfect and vibrant.

Black Levels. If the black levels in this LG model could have been better, the color renditions would already look perfect even without manually adjusting the controls. The LG 32LH30 has slightly lighter black levels than most LCD TVs. Some dark scenes appeared washed out when viewed in this model. Adjusting the controls still fails to achieve the deep black level that most would desire.

Video Processing and Uniformity. Again, the LG 32LH30 will definitely improve a lot if video processing and uniformity issues are resolved. When it comes to still sources, this model was able to handle 1080i and 1080p well; however, that doesn’t go the same if picture is in motion. It certainly would do well with some improvement in the smoothing effect. Also, the picture intensity differs on some parts of the screen. The image brightness is not the same all throughout the screen, having a darker effect on the sides while there are some vertical portions in the middle area that are slightly brighter than the rest.

Design. Just like the usual exterior of most of the LCDs, this LG model has a glossy finish on the frames of standard width. The screen can be swiveled on either side. The notable feature on its remote control is the dedicated Energy Saving button which is appropriately colored green with a leaf design. Likewise, it is also notable, however, that there is no dedicated button for the aspect ratio settings.

Picture Controls. Among all of the features of the LG 32LH30, its picture controls is the most outstanding. There is an increased number of adjustable settings compared to previous year’s LG LCD TVs. Something new to this model is the Picture Wizard, which is brilliant as it has its own test patterns that work well for non-experts. There are a lot of advanced picture controls that help improve the overall image quality such as three gamma levels, color temperature presets, noise reduction, edge enhancement and sensor for the surrounding room light.

As mentioned above, the LG 32LH30 has its own fair share of ups and downs when it comes to its features and performance. Nevertheless, having the price tag of just below $800, and can even go as low as $500, this could very well pass the standards of the not-so-picky consumers.

A really good deal on LG 32LH30 can be found on Amazon.

Jenna Zhone
Jenna is a technology journalist from Dallas, she specializes in High Definition TV and Blu-Ray equipment. In her spare time she likes to jog and (on Wednesday afternoons) watching Lost series on her plasma.