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Maxent MX-42X3

Reviewed by

Kevin Miller

on 10/28/2005

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CNET Editors' rating explained for Maxent MX-42X3

Reviewed by:: Kevin Miller
Edited by:: David Katzmaier
Reviewed on:: 10/28/05
Updated on:: 10/28/05
Released on:: 08/01/05
Click here to see CNET editors' review for Maxent MX-42X3
Design:: 6.0
Features:: 5.0
Performance:: 7.0
Overall score:: 6.1

Editors' rating: televisions
CNET Electronics editors rate televisions on a scale of 1 through 10, which translates to a certain number of stars (see below). To calculate the rating, three different criteria are scored on our 10-point scale. These scores are then weighted as detailed below, added, and converted to conform to our rating system.

The rating criteria with weightings are:

Design
(30 percent of the total rating)
We look at not only the overall aesthetics of the product but also its interface and included remote. An uninspiring design will rate a 5. Higher scores will be given for a well-designed remote with backlit buttons, a clear onscreen navigation system, and particularly sleek cosmetics.

Features
(30 percent of the total rating)
The range of features is considered in determining this portion of the rating. From faster refresh rates to interactive applications to picture controls to input selection, we consider everything this product delivers to the consumer. A set that comes armed with a suitable number features for basic use will earn a 5. Products with other useful extras will earn a better rating.

Performance
(40 percent of the total rating)
We consider picture quality to be the most-important criteria for displays, so we give it the most weight. A score of 5 represents a television that can produce a decent picture that has no particular strengths. Sets with deep black levels, accurate color and/or superior video processing, among other factors, will earn a higher score. It's worth noting that power consumption does not figure into our ratings for performance. For a complete description of CNET's performance evaluation procedures, see How We Test televisions.

What the numbers mean

9.6 to 10.0 = 5 stars (Spectacular):
This exceedingly rare score is reserved for a product that is as perfect as it could be.

9.0 to 9.5 = 4.5 stars (Outstanding):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores high on all of its rating criteria. It succeeds at meeting all of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful drawbacks.

8.0 to 8.9 = 4 stars (Excellent):
A product that receives a rating in this range is superior in so many ways that its relatively few drawbacks are not very important.

7.0 to 7.9 = 3.5 stars (Very good):
While the strengths of a product scoring in this range certainly outweigh its weaknesses, it has some minor faults that certain users should be aware of.

6.0 to 6.9 = 3 stars (Good):
This range represents a product that is above average. Its strengths slightly outweigh its weaknesses, making it good for most uses but not a standout.

5.0 to 5.9 = 2.5 stars (Average):
A product that scores in this range is functional but unremarkable.

4.0 to 4.9 = 2 stars (Mediocre):
Products in this range are below average. They fall in the middle of the pack for most features, but suffer from a few additional major flaws.

3.0 to 3.9 = 1.5 stars (Poor):
You probably should not consider a product in this range or lower. There may be one or two specialized circumstances, however, that could justify the purchase of this product for a very low price for a specific demand.

2.0 to 2.9 = 1 star (Terrible):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores low on all of its rating criteria. It does not satisfy any of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful strengths.

1.0 to 1.9 = 1/2 star (Abysmal):
A product in this range should never have been produced. This product has no redeeming qualities and worse, may actually harm you or your productivity.

0 - 0.9 = 0 stars