Pioneer recently added two new "limited run" models to its 2008 line of KURO plasmas: These Elite Signature Series models are the crème of the KURO crop, handpicked off the assembly line, inspected, and certified as the best of the best. Sold only through specialty retailers who have been trained to set them up, the Signature Series panels are designed to have an open architecture, and they utilize an advanced IP control platform that gives the installer an unmatched level of access and customization. The Signature Series includes the 50-inch PRO-101FD and the 60-inch PRO-141FD. Both are 1080p HD monitors, so they lack internal TV tuners. This allows the panels to measure just 2.5 inches deep, but it means you must mate them with an outboard tuner, cable box, or satellite box to receive TV programming. These monitors also don't come with speakers or a stand, although an optional stand is available.
Additional Resources
• Read more high performance 1080p HDTV and 3D plasmas from Pioneer KURO, Panasonic and others.
• Read more Pioneer and Pioneer Elite reviews here.
The PRO-141FD has a healthy connection panel that includes four HDMI, one component video, one DVI, and one PC input, as well as RS-232 and IR ports for integration into an advanced control system. An Ethernet port allows for IP setup, remote monitoring, and diagnostics. This model does not offer the Home Media Gallery function, which allows you to stream media from a PC or DLNA-compliant server, found on other Elite KURO TVs. The HDMI inputs accept both 1080p/60 and 1080p/24, and picture-in-picture functionality is available.
The PRO-141FD's setup menu has a dual structure that offers different controls for the consumer and installer. Even on the consumer end, the PRO-141FD offers more adjustments than you'll find with most plasmas. For starters, the monitor has eight picture modes, including an Optimum mode that (in conjunction with light sensor on the front panel) automatically adjusts the picture quality to suit your viewing conditions. There are six color-temperature options, including a manual mode that lets you precisely adjust the white balance. In addition to gamma and advanced noise-reduction controls, Pioneer includes two color-space options (one more vivid, one more natural), plus a color-management system to precisely adjust the six color points. Pioneer also offers three different ways to handle film sources for output on this display: The Standard mode offers traditional 3:2 pulldown detection; the Advance mode outputs 24fps content at 72Hz for a smoother, less juddery presentation; and the Smooth mode appears to do frame interpolation to present even smoother movement. The menu also includes a new Blue Only mode that makes it easier to correctly set the color control. Several features are available to help prevent or counteract image retention. There are nine total aspect-ratio options for HD and SD sources, including a Dot by Dot mode to view 1080i/1080p sources with no overscan.
Should you or your installer opt to add the PRO-141FD to a network via the Ethernet port, you can utilize the IP control function, which includes a virtual remote, access to picture and general setup parameters, and even the ability to receive emails when there is a system error or malfunction.
Read The High Points, Low Points and Conclusion on Page 2
Low Points
• This monitor has no internal TV tuners.
• It does not come with speakers or a stand. You can add the optional stand if desired, but there's no option to add speakers. This display is meant to be integrated into a complete home theater system.
Conclusion
The Elite Signature Series PRO-141FD offers a gorgeous image and a comprehensive set of adjustments. It represents the best of the already industry-leading KURO line, but that performance comes at the premium price of $7,000 for a 60-inch monitor.
2009-06-02 06:52:54
<p>Um, not much of a review here besides some facts about the 141?? What about real world performance, both positives and not-so-positives if any?</p>
2009-05-03 15:54:44
<p>Only a few dealers now stock them. Half are actually raising the price. I saw this interesting article about the practice...</p>
2009-04-23 14:30:43
<p>Is the Kuro Elite Pro-151FD as good as the Kuro Elite Pro-141FD Signature Series?<br /> Thanks very much! Paul</p>
2009-02-22 10:16:59
<p>I'm blown away by my 141 and this was with my (bdp05). Now that I have connected the (bdp09) I will watch every blueray disc 10 times over! I love my Elites!</p>
2009-01-22 05:48:10
<p>The KURO line is one of the absolute best money can buy.</p> <p>KURO means black in Japanese and Pioneer lives up to the hype with the blackest blacks you will see on any flat HDTV to date.</p>
2009-01-22 05:45:42
<p>Bob,</p> <p>You are totally right!!!! The Elite Kuro's are undoubtedly the best TV's made.</p>
2008-11-25 09:35:52
<p>I purchased this monitor about a month ago. I can positively say it is the BEST home theater purchase I have ever made. The price may be high, but it is worth every penny! I am seeing details from HD broadcasts that I never saw on my Sony KV36XBR400! Couple with the outstanding color accuracy, the 141FD delivers stunning images.</p> <p>And with Blu-ray the images are absolutely breathtaking! The blacks are so good on this set that you cannot tell where the black in the scene ends and the top and bottom black bars begin.</p> <p>I highly recommend the Pioneer Pro-141FD for anyone seeking the very best! And if you are torn between the 60" and 50" model and can afford the extra cost definitely go with the large monitor. You will not regret it!</p> <p>If you buy one be sure to have your set ISF calibrated by a professional calibrator who has the 9G ISFccc Elite Monitor Display Profile for ControlCAL. This may be the only consumer TV that can be truly fine tuned like a professional monitor. ALL the tuning menus are accessible.</p>