The RV525 Series is one of the more value-oriented lines in Toshiba's 2009 LCD group; it's the least expensive 1080p line and does not carry the higher-end REGZA moniker. The line includes screen sizes of 40 and 46 inches. We have not performed a hands-on review of the 46RV525R, but here is an overview of the TV's features. As an entry-level 1080p model, the 46RV525R lacks advanced options you'll find in the company's higher-end lines, such as anti-blur technology, LED backlighting, and the PixelPure 5G engine. This model uses Toshiba's 8ms CineSpeed LCD panel and 10-bit video processor, and it sports a gaming mode to improve response time when mating the display with a gaming console. It's also EnergyStar 3.0-compliant.

The connection panel is solid but not outstanding: It includes three HDMI, two component video, and one PC input, plus a single RF input to access the internal NTSC, ATSC and QAM tuners. The HDMI inputs accept both a 1080p/60 and 1080p/24 signal. Toshiba has not placed an HD-capable connection on the side or front panel for easy access. The 46RV525R lacks picture-in-picture functionality and a program guide for the internal tuners, but it does offer a nicely conceived Channel Browser that shows thumbnails of inputs, channels, and favorites along the bottom of the screen. This TV lacks an SD card slot or USB port for playback of digital media files (there is a side-panel USB port for firmware upgrades only), and it does not have an Ethernet port for network connectivity and/or media streaming.

The 46RV525R offers a solid amount of picture adjustments to fine-tune image quality. You get five picture modes and three color-temperature options, with the ability to adjust the amount of green and blue in these presets. However, the menu does not offer full white-balance controls or the AutoView picture mode found in step-up models. In addition to an adjustable backlight, the TV has a DynaLight mode that automatically tailors the TV's backlight to suit the source content. An eight-step gamma adjustment and digital/MPEG noise reduction are available. The TV has eight aspect-ratio options, including a Native mode for viewing 1080i/1080p signals with no overscan.

The 46RV525R features a high-gloss black cabinet, detachable stand, and speakers integrated into the bottom panel. The audio menu includes bass, treble, and balance controls, plus the new QSound 3D surround function.

High Points
• This TV has a 1080p resolution and will accept 24p sources via its HDMI inputs.
• LCDs can be very bright, which makes them a good choice for a brightly lit viewing environment.
• The 46RV525R has a solid number of video inputs and picture adjustments.
• It's EnergyStar 3.0-compliant.

Low Points
• The 46RV525R does not include 120Hz technology to reduce motion blur and film judder.
• The TV doesn't have a USB port or SD card slot that supports digital media playback, nor does it include an Ethernet port for Web connectivity.
• This LCD uses a traditional fluorescent backlight, so its black level is not as good as that of a higher-end LED-based LCD.
• LCD viewing angles are only average.

Conclusion
Toshiba's 46RV525R is a fairly stripped-down model that's best suited to someone who wants a 46-inch 1080p LCD at a good price and is not interested in higher-end features like LED backlighting and 120Hz technology.