Unique 3x optical zoom lens.
This revolutionary system employs a high-precision prism behind the first lens element to refract light through 90° downwards onto the CCD. So the lens moves up and down, not in and out.

2 million pixels.
2-megapixel CCD plus Minolta’s optical excellence, enhanced by the latest image processing technology means A4 prints can now be made with confidence.

The oldest hi-fi company ¡n Japan - Denon - ¡s to merge with rival j Marantz in a move that’s sure to mean a big shake-up for both
companies ¡n their homeland.The newly formed merger company, called D&M Holdings, will still produce both Denon and Marantz AV and hi-fi gear, for both brands will continué to exist, but they’ll now share research and development resources in Japan. What does this mean for us? Well, probably not a lot in terms of the amount of equipment out there to buy, though we should see quality improvements in both Denon’s hi-fi components and Marantz’s AV kit as they share experience and knowledge.D&M Holdings hasn’t announced any redundancies as a result of the merger.

Panasonic have thought of everything with this set: therearethree Sea rts and four phono outputs, as well as Pro Logic and Digital Theatre Surround. Youalso getarangeof picture in picture options.  Our recent group test of widescreens {T3 67) rated theTX32PB50topofthe pile: ¡t delivers excellent visuals and is jam-packed with connection options, including digital inputs. It’sa truly versatile choice.

Someso-called fíat screens are merely less curved,butthe32DX100’s useof Sony’s WEGA technology actually means the screen is so fíat your eyes are fooled into thinking it’s concave. The set is as well specified asyou’dexpectjncluding the provisión of three Scart points,even if some áreas, such as sound,fallshort. It’s the awesome screen and picture, though, that’ll swing your vote.

Notevery32 inch widescreen has to cost overa grand, as this Hitachi model proves. Despite the price,features such as Pro Logic surround and phono output sockets areincluded. The difference between this model and costlier alternatives is obvious -there are only two Scart sockets, for example.The set can prove potent when combined with a decent sound system,though.

With threeScarts,five surround speakers and a 100Hz picture,this set comfortably delivers all the basicsyou’dexpect, plusafewbonusessuch assplit-screen viewing of two channels. The AV32P10can’t match the sumptuous visuals of setsfrom Panasonic or Sony, and sound support is limited to Dolby Digital, but it’s an agreeable option if you need to keep the budgetdown.

This set is ready to go out of the box, with two pairs of surround speakers to exploit the Dolby Digital and Pro Logic options. There are three Scart sockets, plus the option of component video input. The32ZP18isagood,but not exceptional, model that won’t cause many complaints. Aesthetes will love the super-slim frame, which means the set doesn’t dominate your room like others can.

You get the impression Philips has all the bases covered herewith a solid 100Hz image and superb sound,thankstosix speakers combining to offer 75W output, plus Dolby Pro Logic surround. Compelling picture and sound aside, this model is thoughtfully configured for digital TV, with digital reception, a smart-card slotforpayTVandevena built-in modem all part of the package.

All these models offer multiple Scart sockets for pure images. Look out for extra connection options, such as phono outputs. Some models offer Dolby Surround, but the option is redundant if you prefer to take your audio through your hi-fi or home cinema system.

If your TV viewing is dominated by DVD movies and digital broadcasts, a widescreen TV is a must-have, its proportions ideal for letterbox visuals. While 24- and 28-inch screens are cheaper, 32-inchers undoubtedly mark the point between just having a great TV and creating a home cinema.