Update: For readers interested in a similar panel to the JZ2000, but with a focus on gaming and a more accessible price point, consider our review of the Panasonic JZ1500.
The initial impression of the Panasonic TX-65JZ2000 is its streamlined and compact packaging. Upon unboxing, the TV’s weight of only 23 kg suggests easy wall mounting, a significant reduction compared to last year’s 65-inch flagship, the Panasonic HZ2000. However, the decreased weight does not imply a reduction in features; the Panasonic JZ2000 offers several noteworthy enhancements, detailed below.
HDMI 2.1 Implementation
A key upgrade for the Panasonic JZ2000 is comprehensive HDMI 2.1 support. While the current HDMI landscape can be ambiguous, with some devices labeled HDMI 2.1 despite lacking full functionality, the JZ2000 delivers a complete feature set. Similar to the previous model, ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) is included, automatically enabling game mode to minimize input lag (measured at 14 ms). Crucially, the JZ2000 now incorporates genuine support for both 120Hz refresh rates and VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), enabling exceptionally smooth performance on compatible devices like the Playstation 5 and Xbox Series X. The Xbox Series X currently leverages the full suite of HDMI 2.1 features, including VRR, a feature not yet fully activated on the PS5. Note that VRR support must be enabled within the TV’s settings, as it is disabled by default.
Experiencing Call of Duty: Vanguard at 120fps, or witnessing Forza Horizon 5 achieving near-flawless 120 frames per second with VRR enabled, is remarkable. VRR mitigates dropped frames, resulting in exceptionally fluid motion. Panasonic distinguishes itself by offering 4K at 120Hz without compromising brightness, a result of its advanced software. This allows for simultaneous 4K, 120Hz, and VRR support. Activating 4K 120 Hz-Bypass mode is recommended for optimal contrast and reduced posterization in games, though it may increase light levels slightly. This mode is not supported for movie playback.
The integration of a recent Mediatek chip facilitates this technological advancement, influencing the TV’s internal design and contributing to the reduced weight, as well as subtle changes in image processing. Panasonic has consistently held a leading position among premium display manufacturers, though Sony has made strides in narrowing the gap. While Sony may exhibit marginally superior motion handling, Panasonic offers a demonstrably more detailed and contrast-rich image, coupled with vibrant HDR colors, comprehensive HDR format support, and full 4K, 120Hz, and VRR functionality. Other manufacturers have indicated potential future updates to address this in their models.
The JZ2000 features four HDMI ports, with three facing downwards and one located on the side. Two of these ports support simultaneous 4K at 120Hz, VRR, and HFR (High Frame Rate) on inputs 1 and 2. Given the potential difficulty of accessing ports when the TV is wall-mounted, pre-installation of HDMI cables is advised. Input 2 also supports eARC for enhanced audio return channel functionality, beneficial for users with home theater systems or soundbars.
Image Quality Assessment
The JZ2000 maintains Panasonic’s commitment to exceptional image quality, utilizing what is currently the market’s brightest OLED panel. This significantly enhances HDR animated content, providing a near three-dimensional visual experience. While LG supplies the OLED panels, Panasonic’s proprietary cooling solution and HCX Pro AI image processor enable it to surpass LG’s own TV models. The panel achieves a peak brightness of over 950 nits, a substantial achievement for its size and price category (further details below). The Panasonic JZ2000 also offers comprehensive HDR support, encompassing HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision. Furthermore, it incorporates Dolby IQ (introduced last year) and the new HDR10+ Adaptive Lightning, an equivalent to Dolby IQ that dynamically adjusts to ambient lighting conditions. It’s worth noting that Dolby IQ includes some locked image enhancements that cannot be disabled, which may be a concern for purists. While the benefits of IQ and Adaptive in adapting HDR to room lighting are apparent, offering user control over the level of “improvements” would be preferable. Also new is the AI mode which analyzes the image and adjusts settings automatically. It functions effectively; however, users who prefer manual control may find it somewhat unpredictable, potentially favoring Filmmaker mode or custom settings in Pro mode.
Analyzing reference scenes reveals that black levels in the opening of The Revenant remain excellent, although the transition in near-black tones exhibits slightly more posterization on the JZ2000 compared to the HZ2000 or GZ2000. While subtle, this difference is noticeable in A/B comparisons. In the opening scene of Kingsman: The Golden Circle, the brightness from the snow and sun is impressive, but with some more noise in the finest details of the image. The JZ2000 delivers top-tier performance, though it falls marginally short of the GZ- and HZ2000 in raw precision, likely due to compromises made to accommodate full HDMI 2.1 support. Panasonic’s upcoming shift in TV manufacturing from the Czech Republic suggests potential component and feature updates for the 2022 models.
While posterization may be slightly less refined, shadow detail is improved. This is likely attributed to Panasonic’s factory calibration, which consistently provides near-reference-level accuracy out of the box, minimizing the necessity for extensive calibration. Filmmaker mode continues to offer the most accurate color, light, and contrast settings without requiring adjustments, although calibration tailored to specific room conditions can offer marginal gains. Enabling or disabling Dynamic HDR is worth experimenting with, as it may enhance definition in brighter HDR scenes.
The JZ2000 resolves a previous issue with choppy images in HDR mode when displaying high-contrast scenes with extensive smoke or fog. While BFI (Black Frame Insertion) is not universally favored, experimenting with it may provide a smoother 24p film viewing experience. However, note that this technique reduces brightness and may reintroduce frame skipping issues.
Upscaling of content from TV signals or 1080p Full HD sources, such as Blu-ray, remains exceptional; the Godfather box set benefits from a noticeable improvement in resolution and clarity.
Integrated Audio Performance
Panasonic’s integration of built-in Dolby Atmos speakers from Technics continues with the JZ2000, with enhancements implemented this year. The TV features a calibration function (360 Soundscape Pro) that, with the use of a microphone in the remote control, creates a surprisingly immersive and convincing soundstage. While bass response remains a limiting factor, supplementing with an external subwoofer is an option. Alternatively, the built-in bass performance is among the best available in an integrated Dolby Atmos system, and the integrated Disney+ app is now calibrated for the TV’s sound system.
MyHomeScreen Operating System
The JZ2000 continues to utilize the MyHomeScreen operating system (formerly FireFox TV), now in version 6.0. While this is not Panasonic’s strongest area, and an Android-based solution might be preferable, MyHomeScreen offers responsive performance and a core selection of apps. User preference will dictate its suitability; for example, the Disney+ app within Panasonic’s TV ecosystem renders slightly better Dolby Vision colors compared to the Xbox app, although the Xbox offers superior audio output. Many users rely on external streaming devices (Apple TV) or consoles, rendering the integrated smart platform less critical. The streamlined and efficient interface is a benefit.
The remote control is constructed entirely of plastic and lacks backlighting, a change from last year’s aluminum remote. However, it includes new shortcut buttons for apps and a calibration microphone for audio setup. The remote from previous Panasonic TVs are compatible.
The term “8K” is frequently used in marketing, and some manufacturers have begun implementing it in their panels. Based on current observations, 8K technology remains uncompelling. Limited bandwidth and compression constraints restrict the availability of high-quality 4K content (outside of physical UHD editions). Current 8K content primarily consists of demo scenes or niche channels. Game consoles nominally support the resolution, but practical implementations are yet to be seen. 8K resolution is unlikely to significantly affect consumers in the near future; therefore, prioritizing superior (4K) picture quality is recommended over focusing on potential 8K support when selecting a TV.
Summary: The Panasonic JZ2000 reinforces the brand’s commitment to high-quality displays, delivering reference-class picture performance for movies and television, and a compelling gaming experience. The reduced weight and price point, with a recommended price of approximately SEK 37,000, make the JZ2000 more accessible than previous flagship models. For users seeking exceptional picture quality for movies, TV, and gaming, the JZ2000 is an excellent choice. For users without current-generation consoles, or who are not avid gamers, evaluating the GZ2000 or HZ2000 for potential cost savings is worthwhile, as their picture quality remains impressive with UHD 4K content.
For us at senses, with our passion for both film and games, the Panasonic JZ2000 is an obvious choice, delivering exceptional performance across all categories, and earning it our new reference model designation!
