Philips Aurea 42PFL9900D: Winner of the 2008 iF Design Awards

Picture: Philips

People gladly watch many Philips devices because their unordinary design emits a special radiance,just take a look at the popular Philips 32PFL9632D/10 that can be mounted into the wall, for example. The Jury of the 2008 iF Design Awards probably felt the same way. Because Philips received a total of 27 rewards in seven different categories. Products from all three of the manufacturer’s divisions, namely, the groups Consumer Lifestyle, Healthcare and Lightning, were awarded the coveted design award. One of the winners is the Aurea 42PFL9900D flat screen television. This device creates a special television experience with its Ambilight Spectra lighting effects. Not only the lighting effects, but also the wide picture format create a cinema ambiance in the living room. The LC display offers the full high definition of 1080p as well as the perfect pixel HD engine. The last feature provides sharp and clear pictures. Even when the high-end device is turned off, it blends in harmoniously with its surroundings.

The lounge illumination operating mode of the Aurea in standby creates a special atmosphere. Not only does the appearance please, but so do the acoustics, thanks to the Virtual Dolby Digital Sound System. The flat screen television offers a brightness of 550 candelas per m², a normal contrast ratio of 1200:1, as well as a dynamic screen contrast of 8000:1. The W-UXGA display’s reaction time measures three milliseconds. Thanks to the horizontal and vertical viewing angles, the television is perfectly suited for large audiences. Of course that is assuming the living room is large enough and there are enough seats. And with EURO 2008 football happening this summer, there will be more than enough opportunities for large viewing parties.

As if acknowledging a victory by Philips with this award, the major electronics chain Digital Direct has offered some very hot deals on non-Philips televisions in an apparent effort to up the competition. And when we say very hot, we mean it. Digital Direct is offering £244.98 off a 19” HD Ready Toshiba LCD, and £378.11 off a 23” HD Ready Toshiba LCD. The sales only get larger with Hitachi and £579.98 off a 42” HD Ready Plasma, and a remarkable £745-98 off a 42” HD Ready Plasma with integrated freeview. Even the popular Sony models are included, with the 20” HD Ready at £164.98 off and the brand new model 40” HD Ready LCD at £185.03 off. Rounding up the sales is LG with £233.16 off their 22” HD Ready LCD and an astounding £936.08 off their 42” HD Ready LCD. Panasonic is last, but not least, as their 42” HD Ready Plasma is going for £630.98 off and their 50” HD Ready Plasma is being sold for an incredible £1226.08 off. The savings from which could alone purchase another on sale plasma for the kitchen and bathroom respectively. However, these sales only last until February 7th and act now, because we have know when we will see such large discounts on high end Televisions again.