Ambilight also makes the experience somehow more absorbing, so that you feel more involved in the picture; try switching it off after an hour or so and notice how divorced you suddenly seem to be from something in which you were completely immersed.

Having said that, the technology can be distracting when you're not used to it. In general, though, we like it and enjoy seeing innovation rewarded with success.

Precise audio

The Philips 42PFL7603D features a pair of backwards-firing subwoofers mounted in the rear panel to give the bass a bit of extra kick and these combine nicely with already above-average speakers hidden in the main chassis.

Soundtracks are precise and clear and have a degree of muscle not usually found in flatscreen televisions. The menus give enough scope to tweak the audio and the speakers are able to handle everything from daytime burble to barnstorming movie soundtracks with aplomb.

A grand for a telelvision is a lot of money, but the size, comprehensive features list and sheer overall quality of the Philips 42PFL7603D make it seem perfectly reasonable.