LG 47LM670T review

Passive 3D, striking design and polished networking? Must be an LG Cinema Screen TV

LG 47LM670S
This 47-incher is the entry-level screen for LG's Cinema Screen range

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47LM670S

Not only has LG revamped the physical look of its 2012 TVs, it's also gone back to the drawing board when it comes to the user interface.

Out goes the curious 'fork in the road' graphic which denoted the brand's previous online Smart TV portal. Now connected sources are much more closely integrated with local functionality. Everything is neatly organised into horizontal scrolling boxes, some of which pop open when you navigate over them. It's a more mature look and easier to browse.

Those without a wired network connection to their viewing room will appreciate the fact the screen has integrated Wi-Fi. But there's more, the 47LM670T also supports Intel WiDi for direct connection between compatible devices. There's not too much WiDi hardware available at present, but it does mean that at some point you'll be able to wirelessly mate kit without using (and burdening) your main Wi-Fi network.

For solutions to any operational confusion, an onscreen user guide can be found on the dashboard. This saves having to remember where you 'filed' the paper version when you first unboxed the set.

Magic Remote

The TV ships with two remote controls. The standard LG zapper is perfectly adequate and it's the handset most will turn to for everyday operation. Also included though is an update on the brand's Magic Remote (the AN-MR300), which now sports a thumb wheel to help you scroll up and down through menus. The main point of this is to direct an onscreen cursor, making it good for both causal games (available to download from LG's Smart portal) and scooting around the embedded web browser.

The set also supports CEC interoperability as standard, here called Simplink, ensuring some level of group control for HDMI connected devices.

Sound

Given the extreme thinness of this set it would be reasonably to assume that the onboard sound system is somewhat anaemic - but it actually works well. Driven by a 2x10w amp module, the set offers a variety of modes and options.

There are three basic options, depending on whether you have wall or stand-mounted the set, plus seven presets (Standard/Music/Cinema/Sport/Game/ Vivid/User) and LG's proprietary Infinite Sound mode. All of which conspire to deliver perfectly acceptable audio for casual use.

Natch, we recommend upgrading to a separate system or soundbar when possible though.

Value

There are plenty of cut-price 3D TVs available at the moment, but this Cinema Screen model isn't one of them. Still for a launch price of £1,350, you get an enviably well-made Freeview HDTV with an aspiration design and a feature roster that's hard to beat. Whether you're after a smart set with copious catch-up TV or a sports and kid friendly 3D model, it fits the bill.

From a picture quality point of view though, it has obvious limitations. With compromised motion resolution and crushed blacks, it's not a set for enthusiasts. They'll need to look further up the Cinema Screen range to be sated.

Steve May
Home entertainment AV specialist

Steve has been writing about AV and home cinema since the dawn of time, or more accurately, since the glory days of VHS and Betamax. He has strong opinions on the latest TV technology, Hi-Fi and Blu-ray/media players, and likes nothing better than to crank up his ludicrously powerful home theatre system to binge-watch TV shows.