Dell W3201C

The W3201C was the only set in our current test group to include two HDMI ports, which are great for connecting both a cable set-top box and a DVD player, for example. It has dual tuners, too, but it doesn't have a CableCard slot, so you can use the digital tuner only for over-the-air digital broadcasts; you'll still need a set-top box to bring in cable or satellite broadcasts.

The remote control is pleasing, and its buttons feel substantial; when you press a button, you know it's going to work. But the buttons are extremely shiny, and glare from external lighting sources makes the labels hard to see. They light up when you push them, though.

Unfortunately, in image quality this set ended up last, trailing behind the other four tested sets in the group. Many screens looked too dark, with garish, oversaturated colors. Dell provides good color controls, however, so you could probably tune some of that out; the unit's on-screen controls are attractive, and you can vary their opacity so you can see what you're adjusting.

Upshot: The W3201C would be a runaway winner, if only its image quality were better and it had a CableCard slot.

Alan Stafford