Panasonic's 58-inch TH-58PZ800U probably isn't the first bigger-than-big plasma that comes to mind when shopping for the best, and even though Pioneer's KURO line is currently basking in the limelight, this bugger is still probably worth a look. The PDP was recently reviewed over at CNET, and somewhat surprisingly, the set was found to be a solid performer -- if not an outright star. Critics found that it reproduced deep black levels / highly accurate colors, had excellent uniformity compared with RPTVs and featured a very satisfactory assortment of ports. The only rubs were the lofty price tag and somewhat lackluster picture controls, but we're just thrilled to see some real competition in this space.

Funny that Panasonic's TH-AE3000 was actually loosed here in the States first (under the PT-AE3000 label), huh? Nevertheless, those in Japan lookin' for some of that 1080p PJ action can get their desires satisfied this November when it ships for around ¥436,000 ($4,152).

[Via AkihabaraNews]

While not nearly as momentous as Sony's BD-Live-enabling update for its BDP-S350 (or Toshiba's latest / last HD DVD update, for that matter), Panasonic's most recent firmware issuance will still interest proud owners of the DMP-BD30. A fresh update has surfaced for users in North and Latin America, though Panny only explains that v2.5 improves "playability and stability." If that's enough detail for you, check out the read link to get started.

[Thanks, Jerry]

If the appearance of Panasonic's SA-BX500 AV receiver had you scratching your head, you're not alone -- we were doing pretty much the same here at EHD. Panny dropped the Technics name for CE gear seven years ago, and since that time we've seen Panasonic move its audio offerings to the HTIB and mini-system markets. But according to the linked article, Panasonic feels that a return to the receiver game is "long overdue," and we agree. A quick look at the specs on the SA-BX500 shows that a CE giant like Panasonic can combine support for the latest technologies with economies of scale that keep things affordable -- if picture and audio quality can keep up with the likes of Denon, Onkyo and Yamaha, we'd welcome Panasonic's return to the fold.

We've been hearing that Matsushita was jonesing to become Panasonic for months now, but at long last, the company (companies?) has finally pulled the trigger. As of October 2008, Matsushita Electric Industrial Company has become Panasonic Corporation, and its stock ticker symbol on the NYSE has been changed from MC to PC. Additionally, Panny is working on "brand changeover from National to Panasonic within Japan," which probably won't be completed until March of 2010. So yeah, Matsushita's logo actually isn't going anywhere just yet, but we appreciate the effort, guys.

While AMIMON's WHDI technology was the star of the wireless HD show at CEDIA, Panasonic has chosen CEATEC to show off its tether-less system. WirelessHD, which was introduced back at CES, can pass along 1080p content using the 60GHz band milliwave, and data transmissions speeds can reach up to 4Gbps. According to attendees, the cordless Blu-ray demonstration was humming along nicely, which bodes well for it actually launching in 2009. Check out a few more details pics in the read link.

Sure it hasn't always been smooth going, but it looks like Panasonic's tru2way HDTV has successfully navigated into a sector containing high quantities of win. That puts the 42- and 50-inch PZ80Q televisions seen at CEDIA on track to hit shelves before Christmas as promised, though official pricing information still eludes us. Still undergoing testing in the labs? A Panasonic tru2way STB, while previously certified hardware from Samsung and LG remains in limbo and ADB's tru2way-certified box waits in the wings. Those eagerly awaiting the second coming of CableCard, keep your wallets at the ready.

Displays larger than 60-inches on non-rear projection HDTVs have yet to become affordable, and the sizes of their big brothers continue to grow and grow. The latest and greatest 150-inch monster from Panasonic is far outside of just about anyone's price range, but that only makes us more interested to learn all about it. Gizmodo recently had a chance to poke and prod for answers, and it came away with quite a few factoids. For instance, this sucker draws 7,000 watts of current, sports a resolution four times 1080p, and it weights as much as our old '88 Honda CRX. But the most interesting answer was the one to the most obvious inquiry: "Why is it 150-inches?" Turns out, it's because of the way plasmas are made -- out of a single, large piece of glass. Panny probably won't sell too many of these, but it shouldn't have too much trouble moving the nine 50-inch plasmas that are made from the same run of glass.

For you slugabeds who missed out on seeing the DMP-BD55 get priced and dated, it's probably a bit backwards to start at the review first. Nevertheless, those mildly interested in making this their next standalone BD deck should certainly give CNET's review a glance. Put simply, this unit was deemed "a perfect example [of a solid Profile 2.0 player], hitting almost all the essential features we look for and pairing it up with pristine image quality." That being said, critics still couldn't wholeheartedly recommend it. Why? It's little sibling, the DMP-BD35. The $299 BD35 features all of the same niceties save for 7.1 analog outputs and analog audio enhancements, yet it costs a full $100 less than the BD55. Sure, if you're an analog output junkie, the extra cost will be completely justified, but it seems most everyone else should just snag the BD35 and burn the excess on a few flicks.

Amazon already delivered the pricing information we've been waiting on so patiently, and now the e-tailer has divulged the ship dates. Panasonic's DMP-BD35 and DMP-BD55 Profile 2.0 Blu-ray players will evidently begin shipping on October 25th and 28th, respectively, and pre-orders are being accepted as we speak. 'Tis a shame there aren't any free Blu-ray Disc promotions, but it's not too late to add any in -- you listening, Amazon?

[Thanks, J.D.]

Read - DMP-BD35
Read - DMP-BD55

Panasonic is looking to reinvent the remote control with its EZ Touch Remote prototype that it is showing off here at CEATEC. Rather than rely on a touch-screen interface that forces one to look down at a remote (and away from the object of one's entertainment), the concept puts the visual feedback where it belongs: on the screen. The remote can sense left- or right-handed users and adjust the interface appropriately, moving important triggers around based on where one's thumb may (or may not) be. Dual touch pads allow for multitouch data entry and zoom manipulation, while gestures allow for quick scrolls, making this one of the most intuitive and drool-worthy remote controls we've seen in a while, or ever. We're so into it that we've provided a full gallery and three videos after the break.

Back in May, we passed along a look at one of Panasonic's earliest FreeSat-enabled VIERAs. Fast forward a few months, and here we are staring down the barrel of a full-fledged review. Pocket-lint recently got ahold of Panny's 46-inch TH-46PZ81B, a 1080p plasma with a built-in FreeSat tuner. Obviously, the bulk of the review focused on how well that latter inclusion performed, and we're happy to share that it did well. Images from FreeSat HD sources were dubbed "sharp with superb detail," and Blu-ray flicks were also a treat to watch. The biggest downer in the whole writeup wasn't about the set at all -- the reviewer bemoaned the fact that so little HD content was available through FreeSat, and given just how excellent it looked, he was left yearning for more. Couldn't agree with you more, brother.

Ah, now this is more like it. Just a day after we realized that Panasonic's DivX-lovin' DMP-BD55 would be hitting the streets at $399, in comes confirmation that its little brother -- the DMP-BD35 -- will be offered for a full Benjamin less. Yep, that means you're looking at a UniPhier-equipped Profile 2.0 Blu-ray deck that's launching at under $300. We're still not told how soon it'll be in stock, but $299.95 for a BD-Live-capable standalone player is something worth paying attention to. Now, how's about we dip down even lower for Black Friday?

[Via Big Picture Big Sound]

We've seen it announced -- heck, we even saw it in person at CEDIA -- but until today, we've still had no idea what kind of sticker would eventually be laid upon Panasonic's Profile 2.0 DMP-BD55 Blu-ray player. Thanks to a few sharp eyes and a pre-order page at Amazon, we now know that this puppy will be launching for a respectable $399.95. Granted, this is twice as much as some of the aged units we've seen recently, but the inclusion of BD-Live support could be a strong selling point for some. Yeah, we hear you -- the PS3 is still the better bargain, but at least the days of $699 - $999 starting points seem to be coming to an end.

[Via Big Picture Big Sound]

Didn't see anything that particularly suited your fancy at CEDIA? Then feast your eyes on CEATEC. As the Japan-based trade show hastily approaches, out pops a mind-boggling new home theater package from Panasonic. The system will include one of its marvelous 103-inch plasma HDTVs, a Blu-ray player and at least one set of fancy 3D goggles. Hailed as a world's first in some form or fashion, the Full HD 3D package utilizes an undisclosed format "employed by major Hollywood film studios" to "distribute full HD images of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels to each eye via synchronized shutter glasses." Panny is hoping to promote the technology and possibly get a leg up on Samsung (our assumption) by impressing wealthy homeowners and members of the Blu-ray Disc Association. As expected, there's no mention of a price, but rest assured -- you'll be stuck choosing between this and a new BMW.

[Via Impress]