As usual, Mitsubishi has a gigantic lineup of rear-projection sets for 2005. Already a contender in the DLP world with models such as 2004's WD-52525, Mitsubishi has decided to enter Sony-dominated territory by introducing a four-model line of LCD rear-projection TVs. We generally prefer DLP to LCD for home-theater image quality.

The LCD sets comprise the company's entry-level models and offer standard 720p resolution. They all include very complete feature sets, a hallmark of the company, and above-average price tags, another hallmark. Because the prices of similarly sized Mitsubishi TVs remain higher than those of LCD rear-projection category leader Sony, we expect them to be less popular. We recently compared Mitsubishi's entry-level LCD with Sony's, and Sony came out ahead.

Mitsubishi's 2005 DLP-based big-screens all use a 1080p resolution chip, which will provide an increase in detail with high-def sources--especially in larger screen sizes--and virtually eliminate visible gaps between pixels. As a family, these sets are once again well featured and relatively expensive, and they are broken up into two distinct groups. The first and least expensive group includes three separate model number series (WD-627/628/727), all with very similar styling and features. The second group goes under the Diamond moniker and includes two series (WD-827/927); they'll be available in September and offer built-in DVRs.

All of these TVs include Mitsubishi's NetCommand feature, which allows for control of other A/V components such as a cable box, using IR blasters via an interface on the TV itself. The program can also control FireWire devices by sending controls signals over the FireWire cable. A well-programmed universal remote is more versatile, but this is a nice option for people who'd rather interact with an onscreen menu on the TV.

From entry level to top of the line, with the step-up features that distinguish each line from the previous ones highlighted.