09.04.2008 — A prototype of a super-slim, 50-inch plasma highlights Hitachi’s booth at CEDIA Expo 2008.

The plasmas, at 1.5-inches thick, are the same depth as its latest LCD line.

The 50-inch plasma, which doesn’t have a model number or MSRP yet, is due out in the second quarter of 2009, according to Bill Whalen, director, product development, consumer group.

The 50-inch model will be followed by 42- and 60-inch versions.

The 1.5-inch depth isn’t just an appeal to the “wow factor,” Whalen says. He explains that the slimness is a reflection of the TV’s economical use of energy. “There’s a nice efficiency jump.”

The prototype features an efficient product supply developed by Hitachi’s electrical component division, Whalen explains. “When you get more efficient you can constrict the power supply.”

This line of 1.5-inch thick plasmas features brightness that Whalen says is competitive with LCD.

“But it has all the advantages of plasma, including better blacks and better, wider viewing angles," he says.

Hitachi hasn’t given up on LCDs. It’s also showing a 47-inch addition to its 1.5-inch deep line of LCDs. The UT47X902 is slated to ship at the end of September.

It joins the line’s 32-, 37- and 42-inch models.

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