The Samsung 7000 plasma series is a higher-end plasma television available in sizes starting at 51 inches. Many industry blogs and reviewers have compared televisions in the Samsung plasma 7000 line to the best plasma and LCD televisions on the market when it comes to overall picture quality. For specific information on why the Samsung 7000 is a great choice for videophile home entertainment environments, read my full Samsung 7000 review below.

Samsung 7000 Available Models

The Samsung 7000 plasma is a television targeted to videophiles who want a superb movie and television experience in their home. Because of this, the available size range is in the higher end for flat panel televisions, and the series offers three models from which to choose. The information provided in this review applies to all models within the series, which are:

Samsung PN64E7000 – 64 inch display
Samsung PN59E7000 – 59 inch display
Samsung PN51E7000 – 51 inch display

Samsung 7000 Video Performance

Overall video performance of the Samsung 7000 is massive. Not only can the screen deal with bright room environments in an effective manner, but it also has the unbelievable uniformity associated with the best plasma televisions. The attractive video performance of the Samsung 7000 garnered a nod from CNET in August 2011 as the most-recommended TV in their Editor’s Choice Awards.

The PN7000 delivers deep blacks and bright colors. When properly calibrated, color delivery and 3D viewing dare to compete with many LCD screens on the market. The plasma screen delivers a hands-down win in off-angle viewing over any LCD screen currently available and the set is extremely efficient and quiet. Most reviewers consider the Movie setting as the most accurate viewing choice on the PN7000.

Even after numerous hours logged, the picture quality remains excellent on this television. As with any plasma, calibration is needed after long-term use to maintain accurate image. One drawback to the Samsung 7000 performance is that shadow detail and fully reproduced high definition imagery is difficult to obtain when the set is calibrated for the deepest blacks.

Samsung 7000 Black Levels and Color Reproduction

With only a few minor issues associated with black level calibration, the Samsung 7000 plasma TV delivers a robust performance for a plasma screen. Reviews and tests of the television rarely produced artifacts, although there was some crushed shadow detail noted in extremely dark scenes. This was generally limited to merging shadows when several overlaid black or grey hues were presented within a dimly-lit movie scene. Many reviewers indicate that the Cinema Smooth setting on the television should be turned off for the most effective performance.

The Samsung 7000 performs on par with the next model up in Samsung’s line when it comes to color reproduction, and even trumps Panasonic’s higher models in some respects. The 3D capability and power consumption ratings are also excellent for this model, and stack up in an almost identical fashion to Samsung’s PND8000 series.

Samsung 7000 Design

The Samsung 7000 is one of the slimmest large screen plasma televisions available on the market and sports a sleek, dark design that is popular among many home entertainment gurus today. The base of the television is a traditional rectangle that anchors the piece well without detracting from the sophisticated styling.

Samsung provided a small facelift for the menus, including a slight change in layout and color and the addition of hints and explanations for each feature. The remote features nice illumination and dedicated keys for internet and Smart TV activity, but the uniformity of all the keys and a single shape choice brings a bit of blandness to the keypad.

Samsung 7000 Connectivity

In keeping with most modern television connection panels, the Samsung 7000 features four HDMI video inputs, but only a single analog connection. Cables are included for the single analog connection, however. The rear panel also sports three USB ports for flexibility on viewing and Wi-Fi preferences.

Samsung 7000 Internet and Smart TV Capability

If the PN7000 falls short in any area, it is Smart TV Capability. That is not to say the television does not present plenty of internet and streaming options. The performance in this area does not quite rank with the superb video performance of the series, however.

The Samsung Smart Hub features a customized dashboard that allows users to organize links into folders and trash unwanted default links from the crowded main page. The Hub is missing popular features on other televisions such as Yahoo and Amazon Instant, but includes apps like SEC Digital Network and Geo-photo. Samsung offers a robust app store that tops most other television-based stores. However, it does not complete with stores supported by Apple or Android.

Samsung 7000 Comparisons

In a comparison of similarly priced televisions, the PN7000 fares very well. For the most part, the series stacks up against competitors like Panasonic’s TC-P55VT30, LG’s 50PZ950, Sony’s XBR-55HX929, and Pioneer’s PRO-111FD.

Samsung 7000 Pricing

The Samsung Plasma 7000 series presents a wide price range, depending on the size purchased. The 51 inch can be found for just under $1,500 online and in retail locations, and prices are pretty consistent. Moving into the 59 or 64 inch size brings a fluctuating cost. The 59 inch size ranges from about $1,800 to $2,200 depending on where you purchase it, and the 64 inch size can cost anywhere from $2,300 to $2,900 depending on store sales events.

Samsung PND7000 Series Review Summary

Although the Samsung 7000 Plasma is not considered a top-of-the-line reference series, it does deliver superb video performance in most cases. Those looking for a sleek picture, deep blacks and excellent color reproduction will find this television a good match for a well-planned home theater or living room. The series has additional benefits like 3D viewing, internet connectivity and a flexible selection of features. Although it is in the higher price range for comparable televisions, the long-lasting performance of the plasma screen delivers value through endurance. The few areas where the series lacks, such as in app delivery, may be overcome with future updates and can be overlooked due to the great picture quality and sophisticated design.