Envision's model L26W761 HDTV probably won't satisfy videophiles, but it's a good choice for buyers who'd like to keep things simple, and for those seeking a solid, if basic, second television that offers full high definition.
The built-in speakers are below the screen -- bad for stereo separation, perhaps, but ideal for people like us who want to upgrade from a 20- or 22-inch analog TV that will still fit inside entertainment centers designed for old-style TVs. This Envision 26-inch model incorporates dual tuners for both standard and digital broadcast TV, and it can tune non-Pay-Per-View cable channels without having to use a set-top box. Both tuners offer good sensitivity for those relying on off-the-air signals for television reception, but I'd recommend using a good roof- or attic-mounted antenna, plus a signal amplifier, for best results.
Picture sharpness and color a terrific for an HDTV at this price. This is a 16:9 aspect ratio widescreen monitor displaying 720p, which is standard in any HDTV measuring under 42 inches. The straightforward menu makes it a breeze to adjust contrast, brightness, tint, color and backlight level to your preferences.
Still, it's pretty basic. There are single inputs for HDMI sources, composite video and S-video, but precious few audio/video outputs of any kind. The jack panel also includes input/outputs for using the set as a VGA PC monitor, which is to be expected given that computer monitors were Envision/AOC's original product line.
Likewise, the remote control is a simple, dark gray hand-held unit, but its layout makes it pretty easy to use. While it lacks a keypad backlight, the remote neither looks nor feels cheap. The owner's manual is pretty Spartan, and it can seem fairly obscure at times, possibly because something got lost in the translation from Chinese to English. (A paragraph near the end of the English section encouraging owners to recycle the set at the end of its useful life carries the title, "End of Life Directives." Hmm.) Even so, it's straightforward enough that anyone who's hooked up cable, VCRs or DVD players to standard-def sets in the past won't have a problem setting up this TV.
In short, keep looking if you want all the bells and whistles. You won't find them here. But this set could be just right for those who want decent HDTV that's simple to operate and comes at an absolutely terrific price. After all, like-sized HD receivers from most of Envision's better-known competitors cost twice as much, or even more.
Buy WIDESCREEN 1366X768, 16:9 ASPECT RATIO,500 CD/M2 (TYP),800:1 (TYP),8MS GRAY-GRAY ( L26W761 )!
