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The distinguishing feature of the Vizio VX32LHDTV is its low price ($700 as of 12/08/06)--less than half the cost of the top-performing model among currently tested 32-inch LCD TVs. And while its economy comes with a few rough edges, the set overall is a good value for the features and image quality that you get.
The VX32LHDTV ranked sixth out of seven in image quality, scoring consistently in the bottom tier across our seven tests. High-definition broadcast video looked washed out and showed some pixilation. However, our test unit scored only six points less than the $1600 Toshiba 32HL66, our top performer, and the Vizio's overall image quality was still considered good.
The low price comes with a few drawbacks. The TV doesn't swivel or allow height adjustments, and the integrated speakers at the bottom of the set are embedded in a wide, distracting silver bar. Plus, I found the placement of the connectors--low on the rear of the back panel--to be inconvenient, although the connectors were nicely color coded.
The VX32LHDTV has plenty of inputs, including two HDMI, two composite, one S-Video, two sets of components, and VGA. The bubbly, visually pleasing on-screen menus are easy to navigate with the slim, silver remote control. There are also separate RGB controls for custom color settings. The unit offers picture-in-picture display, and it has channel, volume, and power buttons on the side of the cabinet.
Overall, Vizio offers a good image and lots of ports for the price. You can get better, but you'll have to pay for it.
