Panasonic Professional BT-LH1710 17-Inch LCD Production Monitor

That basically sums up my feeling for this monitor.

Yes, I'm fully aware it is a broadcast/studio/production monitor which commands a far higher price than a consumer monitor, BUT, it's just not that good. Take away the special functions, a $600 PC monitor (IPS or PVA panel) with the right adapters and/or format converters would equal the PQ at a fraction of the cost.

Pros;

1. Metal frame (see below),

2. Typical studio/production functions: cross pulse, underscan, blue only,

3. Four preset & three user adjustable white balance settings (confusing user adjustments, see below) ,

4. Composite, S-video (Y/C), component and two SDI inputs (all loop thru),

5. Three independent user memories,

6. AC or DC operation (removable power cord),

7. Various markers & waveform monitor display (see below),

8. Removable metal stand (see below).

Cons;

1. Very pricey, especially for a 720p panel,

2. Weight. Over 15 lbs with stand. Until you pick it up, 15 lbs doesn't sound like much, but it is!,

3. This appears to be a TN panel (un-confirmed) judging by the poor vertical viewing angles. (side to side angle is better),

4. Uneven backlighting,

5. No DVI input,

6. Noticeable 'green' cast with the D65, D56 or variable 0-65 user settings (but can be adjusted out),

7. User white balance (Var 1-3) are confusing since each control affects both high and low Y levels. Controls are labeled "High" & "Low", but each has "Bias" & "Gain" figures shown, both change while adjusting,

8. Older design introduced in 2005. (1760 replacement introduced in 2008 with a apparent IPS panel with a even hight price tag),

9. Heavy, non tilting stand (2 lbs). No sharp edges, but I wouldn't use it on a surface that would scratch or able to dent easily. Since the vertical viewing angle is poor, something that tilts is imperative,

10. WFM display is very crude and inconsistent. Can't be used for a reliable level readout. (1760's firmware changes the overlay to double the resolution.)