Provided you're feeling flusher than most right now, all you need to know about the 500A is that it actually outperforms even its own sensational LX5090 sibling - and in doing so can justifiably claim to make the best better. In fact, I might even go...

Amazing SD and HD picture quality ; DVB-S2 HD satellite receiver ; DLNA media playback

No Freesat EPG ; Can't record to USB

The KRP-500A is a superb high-definition display that will really make the most of new hi-def channels and sources and will stand the test of time. If money's no object then it's also not bad for watching a few Euro TV channels, but it's probably not...

Simply astonishing picture quality with the best sources ; gorgeous styling and build ; extensive spec ; ultra-slim due to two-box configuration

It's not cheap

Is it worth the extra money? Only you can decide but we're certain it's better than our Award winner, the PDP-LX5090, and that's really saying something...

An expensive 50in TV and, if money is no object, also the best

An expensive 50in TV and, if money is no object, also the best

With the KRP-500A Pioneer have managed to improve on what are already arguably the finest flat panels in existence. The improvement is not huge but once again Pioneer have managed to push TV performance boundaries.

Reference

Some awkward operation., A bit noisy when running., High power consumption., Pesky gray side-bars in 4:3 format., Stand and speakers cost extra

Picture is the best I've seen (even compared to the latest led backlit screens). Picture adjustment also means you can get the picture just how you want it! Looks very sexy in White ;-)

Maybe a little baffling if you delve to far into the menus.

Picture is the best I've seen (even compared to the latest led backlit screens). Picture adjustment also means you can get the picture just how you want it! Looks very sexy in White ;-)

Maybe a little baffling if you delve to far into the menus