AOC Envision L42H761 42-inch LCD HDTV Boston MA

If AOC's Envision L32W761 had an older, wiser, and better-looking cousin, the L42H761 would be it. In fact, the only physical difference between these identical-looking HDTVs is the screen size.

The 42-inch L42H761 HDTV forms its own identity quickly with the help of more inputs and a far superior OSD (on-screen display) menu. The text of the menu is much larger, making it easier to use. The preset picture options are much easier to find and adjust, too. Despite its improved features, however, the TV still lacks high-end functions such as individual color controls for advanced calibration.

One last gripe about the OSD: It doesn't allow you to associate a preset option to a specific input. So, for example, if you have your video game console on one input and you prefer to view it in bright mode, but you like to see your broadcast TV in normal mode, you have to change that option every time.

The L42H761 didn't perform as well as its smaller cousin did. In image quality, the set left a lot to be desired, displaying a garbled picture at times. Put through its paces in the PC World Test Center, the HDTV earned a score of Fair, ranking significantly below its competition in performance.

Overall, if the AOC L42H761 had received a bit more TLC in its design and usability, it would be a significantly better television.