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Product:
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Samsung SyncMaster 172X TFT-LCD Monitor |
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Price:
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$742 (CAN) / $578 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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Samsung Canada
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Author:
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Hi-TEK
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Date:
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January 6th, 2004
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Rating:
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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As with most SyncMaster LCD-TFT based monitors, the 172X includes a menu system that is well designed,
easy to navigate and covers all the basic settings such as vertical and horizontal positioning, OSD
(On Screen Display), image size, auto tuning as well as brightness and contrast settings. What is new
to the OSD Menu with the 172X model is the inclusion of a new feature called "Magic Bright". The
"Magic Bright" menu option provides you with a series of pre-configured optimal environment settings
(Text, Internet and Entertain) which are dependant on the application or image that you are viewing.
By selecting one of the menu options allows you to configure your viewing environment to a preferred
brightness and contrast setting which works best as a default configuration.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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As previously mentioned, Samsung has bundled the MagicTune application software to compliment the OSD Menu
and the Magic Bright feature. MagicTune v2.0 is essentially the software equivalent of the OSD
Menu allowing you to customize your monitor settings from your desktop. An easy to use wizard guides you
through the menu options where you can make the necessary adjustments for your own personal preference.
The Samsung SyncMaster 172X TFT-LCD Monitor was run through a series of applications at different resolutions
ranging from 2D and 3D programs, DVD's, and games. Overall performance was very good when connected to both
my Radeon 9700 Pro video card and WinFast TV2000 XP Deluxe TV Tuner Card. I did notice an improvement in
the image quality once the Magic Bright feature was toggled to match the application being used.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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DVD playback using Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark was very good with the image quality very sharp and
the colours vibrant. Video game playback was exceptionally smooth and there were some slight ghosting issues
noted but not significant enough to effect game play. I set the maximum resolution to 1280 x 1024 and played
a few rounds of HALO. I really noticed a significant improvement in the response time of this monitor compared
to the previous Samsung SyncMaster models that have been reviewed in the past.
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Conclusion:
Samsung has proven that it is definitely a company that it is at the forefront of innovation when it comes
to designing products that cover such a wide scope and user base. The ultra thin narrow base LCD-TFT monitors
are a step in the right direction offering an abundance of useful features and functionality. Consumers will
appreciate the sleek silver design and easy to navigate On Screen Display menu options. This product is good for
everyday use with normal desktop, office and multimedia applications. The double hinged retractable monitor
base is a first of its kind allowing this unit to be easily packed away for transport or wall mounted for
convenience. The new "Magic Bright" and "MagicTune" application software offers a set of easy to use pre-defined
menu settings that can be configured to suit any specific type of application or environment. The inclusion
of a DVI (Digital Visual Interface) simplifies the process of using the 172X in a dual monitor configuration.
Finally, the improved product specifications which include a 500:1 contrast ratio and fast 12ms response time
put this monitor over the top. The only negative aspect of this product where the slight ghosting images noted
during game play and the missing power and DVI cable which were not included with this package. Overall, I was
very impressed with the SyncMaster 172X LCD-TFT Monitor and award this product a final rating of
9 out of 10 and MTB's Seal of Approval.
If you have any questions regarding this review be sure to visit the
Samsung Canada website for more information or
discuss them in our forums.
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Pros:
- Excellent picture quality and sharp display
- Three year warranty support
- High contrast ratio and fast response time
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Magic Bright and MagicTune features
- Easy to navigate On Screen Display menu
- Support for both Analog and Digital inputs
- Dual hinge retractable monitor bracket
- Includes wall mounting kit
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Cons:
- Slight ghosting during game play
- Missing DVI and power cables
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