Panasonic TC-P65ST60 Plasma TV Review A Look at a Classic
The Panasonic TC-P65ST60, released in 2013, represents a pinnacle of plasma display technology. While plasma TVs are no longer in production, the ST60 remains a sought-after model for its exceptional picture quality, particularly its deep blacks, vibrant colors, and smooth motion handling. This review will delve into the specifications, performance, strengths, and weaknesses of the TC-P65ST60, offering a comprehensive overview for potential buyers and enthusiasts alike. Even years after its release, the ST60 continues to impress, standing as a testament to the superior image quality that plasma technology once offered.
Key Specifications and Features
Display Technology and Resolution
The Panasonic TC-P65ST60 is a 65-inch plasma television with a full HD (1920×1080) resolution. Plasma technology utilizes small cells containing noble gases and a small amount of mercury, which, when electrically charged, illuminate phosphors to create images. This results in self-emitting pixels, meaning each pixel can be individually turned on and off, producing exceptional contrast ratios and deep black levels, a hallmark of plasma displays. While lacking the 4K resolution of modern TVs, the 1080p resolution of the ST60 remains perfectly acceptable for most viewing distances and content.
Picture Quality and Performance
The ST60 excels in several key areas related to picture quality. Its Infinite Black Pro panel delivers incredibly deep and inky blacks, contributing to a stunningly high contrast ratio. This, in turn, enhances the perceived detail and depth of the image, especially in dark scenes. Color accuracy is also excellent, with vibrant and natural-looking colors. The ST60 features Panasonic’s Hexa-Processing Engine, which further enhances color reproduction and detail.
Motion handling is another area where the ST60 shines. Plasma technology inherently has a very fast response time, which eliminates motion blur and judder, making it ideal for watching fast-paced action movies and sports. The ST60 also includes a 600Hz Sub-field Drive, which further improves motion clarity.
Connectivity and Inputs
The Panasonic TC-P65ST60 offers a comprehensive set of connectivity options, including:
- 3 HDMI inputs
- 2 USB ports
- Component and composite video inputs
- Ethernet port
- Optical digital audio output
These inputs allow you to connect a wide range of devices, such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and more. The Ethernet port provides wired internet connectivity for smart TV features.
Smart TV Features
The ST60 features Panasonic’s Viera Connect smart TV platform. While not as feature-rich or intuitive as modern smart TV platforms, Viera Connect offers access to a variety of streaming apps, including Netflix, Amazon Instant Video, and Hulu Plus. It also includes a web browser and other basic smart TV functionalities.
Design and Aesthetics
The design of the TC-P65ST60 is relatively simple and understated. It features a thin bezel around the screen, which helps to minimize distractions and maximize the viewing area. The stand is sturdy and provides adequate support for the TV. Overall, the design is functional and unobtrusive, allowing the picture quality to take center stage.
Strengths of the Panasonic TC-P65ST60
Unrivaled Black Levels
The defining characteristic of the ST60, and indeed plasma technology in general, is its ability to produce incredibly deep black levels. Unlike LCD TVs, which rely on a backlight that can bleed through even when trying to display black, plasma TVs can completely turn off individual pixels, resulting in true black. This dramatically improves contrast ratio and makes for a much more immersive viewing experience, particularly in dark environments.
Excellent Motion Handling
The ST60’s fast response time and 600Hz Sub-field Drive ensure smooth and blur-free motion. This is a significant advantage over many LCD TVs, which can suffer from motion blur, especially in fast-paced scenes. The ST60 is therefore an excellent choice for watching sports, action movies, and playing video games.
Accurate Colors and Wide Viewing Angles
The ST60 delivers accurate and vibrant colors, thanks to Panasonic’s Hexa-Processing Engine. Colors look natural and lifelike, enhancing the overall realism of the image. Furthermore, plasma TVs offer wide viewing angles, meaning the picture quality remains consistent even when viewed from off-center positions. This makes the ST60 a good choice for larger rooms where viewers may be seated at different angles.
Superior Contrast Ratio
The combination of deep black levels and bright whites results in an exceptional contrast ratio on the ST60. This high contrast ratio contributes to a more dynamic and engaging picture, with greater detail and depth. The ST60’s contrast ratio is significantly better than that of most LCD TVs in its price range.
Weaknesses of the Panasonic TC-P65ST60
Lower Brightness Compared to Modern TVs
One of the main drawbacks of plasma technology is its lower brightness compared to modern LED/LCD TVs. While the ST60 is adequately bright for most viewing environments, it may struggle in very brightly lit rooms. If you primarily watch TV in a room with a lot of natural light, you may find the ST60’s brightness to be insufficient.
Image Retention (Burn-in) Risk
Plasma TVs are susceptible to image retention, also known as burn-in. This occurs when static images are displayed on the screen for extended periods of time, causing a ghost image to be permanently etched into the panel. While the ST60 includes features to mitigate image retention, it is still a risk, especially if you frequently watch content with static elements, such as channel logos or video game HUDs. Careful usage and varying content are key to avoiding this issue.
Higher Power Consumption
Plasma TVs consume significantly more power than LED/LCD TVs. The ST60’s power consumption is considerably higher than that of a similarly sized LED/LCD TV. This can result in higher electricity bills over time. Power consumption was always a limiting factor in Plasma TV production.
Limited Smart TV Features
The ST60’s Viera Connect smart TV platform is outdated and lacks many of the features found on modern smart TVs. The app selection is limited, and the interface can be clunky and slow. If you rely heavily on smart TV features, you may want to consider using an external streaming device, such as a Roku or Apple TV.
Alternatives to the Panasonic TC-P65ST60
Since the Panasonic TC-P65ST60 is no longer in production, finding a new one is impossible. However, there are a few alternatives to consider, depending on your priorities. If you are looking for a similar picture quality experience, a used high-end plasma TV from Panasonic or Samsung could be an option. Be sure to inspect the TV carefully for any signs of image retention or other issues.
If you are looking for a new TV, consider an OLED TV. OLED TVs offer similar black levels and contrast ratios to plasma TVs, with the added benefits of higher brightness, lower power consumption, and more advanced smart TV features. However, OLED TVs are generally more expensive than LED/LCD TVs.
For a more budget-friendly option, consider a high-end LED/LCD TV with local dimming. Local dimming technology allows the TV to dim the backlight in specific areas of the screen, resulting in improved black levels and contrast ratios. While LED/LCD TVs cannot match the black levels of plasma or OLED TVs, they can still offer a very good picture quality.
Tips for Buying a Used Panasonic TC-P65ST60
If you are considering buying a used Panasonic TC-P65ST60, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Inspect the screen carefully for image retention (burn-in). Display a full-screen gray image and look for any faint ghost images.
- Check the hours of use. The more hours the TV has been used, the closer it is to the end of its lifespan.
- Test all of the inputs and outputs. Make sure all of the HDMI ports, USB ports, and other inputs are working properly.
- Ask about the TV’s history. Find out how the TV was used and whether it has been properly cared for.
- Negotiate the price. Used plasma TVs are typically sold for a fraction of their original price.
Is the Panasonic TC-P65ST60 Still Worth Buying?
The question of whether the Panasonic TC-P65ST60 is still worth buying depends on your priorities and budget. If you are a videophile who values picture quality above all else and you are willing to accept the limitations of plasma technology, then a used ST60 can be a great option, especially if you can find one in good condition at a reasonable price. The deep blacks and excellent motion handling still make it competitive with many modern TVs.
However, if you are looking for a TV with the latest features, such as 4K resolution, HDR support, and a modern smart TV platform, then you should consider other options. OLED TVs offer a similar picture quality experience with more modern features, while high-end LED/LCD TVs offer a more budget-friendly alternative.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy a Panasonic TC-P65ST60 is a personal one. Weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider your own needs and preferences before making a purchase. Remember to factor in the age of the technology and the potential for issues arising from a used electronic device.
The Panasonic TC-P65ST60 remains a legend in the world of home entertainment, a testament to the captivating power of plasma technology. Its deep blacks, smooth motion, and accurate colors continue to impress even by today’s standards. While newer technologies offer advancements in brightness and smart features, the ST60 provides a unique viewing experience that many enthusiasts still cherish. Its legacy serves as a reminder of the innovation and dedication that went into creating this remarkable television. For those seeking a glimpse into the past and a taste of plasma perfection, the ST60 is a worthwhile consideration.
