We live in a world of high definition, with stunningly clear images brought to our computer monitors and television screens as never before. Whether plasma or LCD, the latest HD televisions bring a new dimension of depth, clarity and sound to your nightly viewing pleasures.

HDTV is currently caught in a battle of sorts between plasma and LCD TVs. Although both varieties are undergoing huge technological advances, most reviewers anticipate that LCD TVs will become the premier HDTV technology of choice, and that LCD technology will soon match plasma’s current superior color contrasts and viewing angles. Furthermore, as our consumer habits become more environmentally-conscious, the vastly superior energy efficiency of LCD screens will become a major plus.

Below are three of the top LCD TVs available across a range of prices.

LG-42LH30FR

LG’s 2009 entry-level LCD TV model is on the lower end of the price spectrum, but the aesthetic appeal and accurate color visuals offered by this television are typical of the South Korean tech giant’s high standards.

The sleek, black 42” model features a hidden sound system along the bottom of the screen; however, the picture-adjusting controls are its standout feature. Easy to use, they allow in-depth color, brightness, and contrast calibrations, among other adjustments, which should appeal to both the out-of-the-box user and those who prefer a more hands-on approach.

The LH30’s incredible color accuracy, unfortunately, is somewhat offset by its relatively poor black levels. Details in shadows are harder to discern and shades of black can be lighter than normal. The TV also has poor off-angle viewing (which is a problem with LCD TVs in general). Nevertheless, this model is suitable for installment in the bedroom, and offers an impressive viewing experience at its size and price. The model also wins praise for its high energy efficiency, which many argue is the benchmark for the 2009 class of LCD TVs.

PRICE: USD 885-1040
www.lg.com.cn

SAMSUNG LA55A950

Samsung’s LA55A950 is bigger and faster than the LG30, and accordingly, it is much more expensive. This 55” LCD TV’s backlight is powered by the most advanced LED (Light-Emitting Diode) technology, so it gives off greater luminosity at lower temperatures.

Although the model was released in September 2008, it still stands as the preeminent flat-panel LCD TV on the market. It may even force us to reconsider the terminology of a “television set” – this model is no thicker than a board, rendering it not so much a “set” as a mere “screen.”

Despite its minimalist design, this model packs immense power, giving the user the highest quality picture resolution. Colors are accurate and video processing response times are among the fastest for LCD TVs. Additionally, a multitude of connective ports includes one for a PC, allowing the television screen to be used as a computer monitor. Its unparalleled picture quality has led some to call it arguably the best television ever made. Testing this claim requires a substantial amount of money, but if you can afford it, the LA55A950 will not disappoint.

PRICE: USD 2200-2800
www.samsung.com.cn.

SONY KDL-46W5500

While on the pricey side consistent with most Sony products, the LED-powered 46” W5500, released in the spring of 2009, has features which make Sony’s future seem as rosy as the blossoming flowers viewed on its “optimal color purity” screen. Sony has also gone to great lengths to reduce the “judder” that accompanies moving objects on an LCD screen. There have been worries about backlight flooding with this model  affecting the consistency of lighting across the screen. Nevertheless, reviewers have raved about the unmatched depth of the blacks on Sony’s LCD screen.

The exterior design is aesthetically simple and, even though visually resembling the other two products reviewed, Sony has matched its simplicity with extensive functionality. Its speakers are located underneath the screen and there are a multitude of external input ports, including four HDMI inputs and a PC input. Ultimately, it is the W5500’s superior motion reproduction capabilities that make it a worthwhile buy – the LCD screen rarely falters as it follows quick camera pans across landscapes, be it in a movie or a video game. Of the 2009 entrants in the LCD TV race, this model ranks right at the top tier.

PRICE: USD 1940-2460
www.sony.com.cn