The Top 42-Inch HDTVs

We first reviewed the Vizio VO42LF back in July, and it's still a well-rounded package at a low price ($1100). Though it costs the same amount as the newer Vizio SV420XVT, it lags behind its cousin slightly in performance and specs.

Our judges thought that the VO42LF had a natural-looking picture. Some images looked fuzzy, however. In one instance, artifacts appeared in a test clip of moving cars. And in another clip, flesh tones looked a bit too saturated.

The VO42LF provides good audio, within the limitations of any HDTV's built-in speakers. At 50 percent volume, audio was a bit muddy, but better than the sound of most TVs.

The VO42LF's remote control looks like a candidate for an Apple Computer Minimalist Design Award. It's smallish, with few buttons and a strange, pits-in-a-grid surface. But its attempted coolness doesn't make it convenient or intuitive to use. For instance, it has no Menu button; so you have to press the Enter button (which is labeled neither 'Enter' nor 'Menu') to access the menu.

But if you focus on the bottom line, the Vizio VO42LF's low price will get you plenty without forcing you to max out your credit card.