DirecTV and Humax have teamed up to deliver the world's first LCD TV with a built-in DirecTV receiver. The setup is very similar to a TV with CableCARD technology. Of course, the DirecTV receiver is only useful when subscribing to the satellite provider's service.
I like the idea of this television, but don't let that statement be the deciding factor in your decision to buy or walk past this television.
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Key Specifications:
This 20" LCD TV has a 4:3 aspect ratio and maximum resolution of 640x480. The contrast ratio is 500:1, which isn't superior by any means. It has a 16ms response time. The audio is supported by twin 3W speakers.
The kicker with the TV is the Faroudja DCDi Cinema Technology, which is an excellent picture enhancing technology. However, I am not sure that will be enough considering the low contrast ratio and low overall resolution.
My Thoughts:
The Humax and DirecTV Web sites do not list this as a digital TV, so I have to presume it will not be able to display any digital signal without a digital-to-analog receiver. The LD 2060 has one component connection for those wanting to split the red, green and blue.
So, how does it work?
Basically, after subscribing to DirecTV you just insert the card that typically goes into a receiver into the back of the television. It's as easy as that.
Humax says this television would be great for kitchen or bedroom. I would agree considering the cost of the LD 2060 is about $600. However, you have to be aware that this TV will not work when connected to an antenna. It will not support HD programming.
The bottom line is that without DirecTV this LCD TV does not compete with other 20" LCDs that are a little more expensive but built for the digital age. This is a novel effort, but my advice is to keep the receiver and get a TV with more juice.
