Panasonic has announced 2021 LCD models including the Android-powered JX800 TVs. The company also launched a compact soundbar and provided an update on its UB9000 UHD Blu-ray player.
Panasonic 2021 LCD TVs
Besides its 2021 OLED TVs, Panasonic will roll out JX940, JX850, and JX800 LCD TV ranges in the first half of 2021, with "more in the pipeline" for later this year.
JX940 will be Panasonic's most advanced LCD TVs of 2021 but once it appears that there is no LED zone dimming on board. JX940 will, however, feature the company's new 'HCX Pro AI' video processor as well as HDMI 2.1 ports and features. Like the OLED models, some HDMI 2.1 features in JX940 will require a firmware update. It has an 4K IPS LCD panel. In some regions it will be known as JX970.
- "The JX940 series also features an innovative iteration of Panasonic’s flexible pedestal design. When the pedestals are placed in the outer position, it raises the TV up slightly so as to allow for a soundbar (such as Panasonic’s design matching HTB490 soundbar) to be placed below it, further enhancing the audio performance," said Panasonic.
Panasonic JX940 LCD TV
In addition, Panasonic unveiled JX850 and JX800. These are more basic 4K LCD TVs but still JX800 sets itself apart. After launching its first Android TVs last year (HX700), Panasonic is now bringing the Android TV platform to its 8-series TVs in 40, 50, 58, and 65 inches.
It means that JX800 will actually be the only Panasonic model to feature Disney+, in addition to the many other streaming apps available on Android TV. The more expensive TV models run Panasonic's in-house My Home Screen 6.0 with a more limited selection of apps.
Also read: Panasonic unveils 2021 OLED TVs in 48-65" with HDMI 2.1
Panasonic's 2021 LCD TVs will be available in the first half of 2021. Pricing details will be announced later. Click on the model name below for full specifications from FlatpanelsHD's TV Database.
Panasonic 2021 LCD TVs – specifications
FlatpanelsHDNew soundbar, UB9000 player
Panasonic also launched a new 2.1-channel soundbar called SC-HTB490. The subwoofer is wireless and it supports Bluetooth for music too. Specifications are available here.
- "HTB490 produces a powerful sound – unexpected considering its compact form. With two full-range, forward facing, speaker units (4.5 x 12cm) the soundbar alone achieves an impressive 160W output. The wireless-subwoofer brings an extra 160W to play, for a total 320W performance. One that can be heard, and felt," the company said.
Panasonic SC-HTB490 is a compact 2.1 soundbar
Lastly, the company said that it will not launch new UHD Blu-ray players in 2021 except a refresh of its flagship UHD Blu-ray player UB9000 that will come "back in May 2021".
- "UB9000 will come back in May 2021, same specifications but new sound processor," said Panasonic. "It will keep the same specifications as before. It is not planned right now to add SACD & DVD-A."
Panasonic's other existing Blu-ray players will carry over into 2021.
