HDTV/3D TV News
Maxent, is probably an unknown brand to most people. But the MX-5020HPM, which is an 50-inch plasma HDTV, could probably change this. However, the MX-5020HPM is a monitor and not a true TV. It does not have a TV tuner inside, neither NTSC (analog), nor ATSC (digital). If you want to watch television, you need to feed it a signal from a cable or satellite set top box, or a standalone tuner box.
This Maxent TV weighs about 115 pound (with stand) and requires some heavy lifting when you want to move it somewhere. The unit measures 49 1/2″ x 33 5/8″ x 4 3/8″ without the detachable stand. The speakers, which are encased in the grille below the monitor, cannot be removed. Maxent hasn’t strayed from the industry standard black bezel, and silver accents.
The full menu system is very basic looking and straightforward, more like a computer monitor’s menu than a television’s. Located on the back of the monitor are the usual suspects of audio video connections. The panel incorporates a pair of HDMI inputs (one with stereo audio for use with DVI-to-HDMI adapters); two component-video inputs with stereo audio; two A/V inputs with composite and S-video; and a VGA-style PC input with a recommended resolution of 1,366×768 and a matching set of stereo audio inputs. There’s also an RS-232 port for custom installation control and service. Nothing major is missing, although some users might wish for a set of easy-access front- or side-panel inputs.
The MX-5020HPM has a scaled down functionality. Basically, it is presenting an image. You don’t have to worry about programming TV tuners. Just feed it a signal, turn it on and you’re ready to rumble. However, MX-5020HPM’s picture quality left a lot to be desired. Its ability to produce a deep shade of black was spoiled by lack of shadow detail, forcing a compromise that was less-than satisfying. Its color temperature was bluer than that of most HDTVs, especially with HDMI sources, and significant red push impaired saturation. The level of black also fluctuated according to program material, which again impaired shadow detail. Colors on the Maxent MX-5020HPM were also problematic. The color temperature on the HDMI inputs were very blue, which discolored all areas of the picture.
Overall, the Maxent MX-5020HPM is a value priced monitor that will not be confused for an overachiever. Once properly calibrated, the 50″ display should be able to satisfy a football fanatic fiesta. A true videophile will be better served by looking elsewhere. Even with the right price, you always feel a need for more is its performance.
Sources:
http://www.retrevo.com
http://tech.yahoo.com
http://reviews.cnet.com
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