When it comes to developing and manufacturing products, having more than one is bound to affect the other. In fact that seems to be the case for Vizio which has made its VF551XVT overshadow its current model, the VF550XVT. One digit in a model number means a lot–the current model has neither of those features, although it still costs around $1999 in stores.

The VF550XVT is among the least expensive 55-inch LCDs on the market, but it has a tough row to hoe at this point In its lifespan.

First off, attentive readers will realize that if they just wait till June, when the company will ship the VF551XVT, they’ll get a lot more TV (judging from the spec sheet) for roughly the same money. We expect Vizio to drop the price on this model at that point, or discontinue it completely.

Second, the overall performance of the VF550XVT is nothing special. We liked its accurate color but found its black level performance and dejudder processing disappointing compared to other LCD sets.

That said, if you’re on a budget, want a really big screen–say, if 52 inches is just too small–and have your heart set on LCD instead of plasma, the Vizio VF550XVT makes a tempting target.

(Source) CNet