Review: Hannspree Hannsvaas LCD TV

Those who find modern LCD TVs just a little bit samey will find something to interest them in this television from Hannspree.

The Hannsvaas looks like something out of an early sitcom or a 1950s drama, its veneered wood look harking back to the days when television sets were large boxes that came in wooden (or wood-effect) cabinets. It's actually designed to look like a cello, we're told.

It's quite a distracting look, although you get over it quickly. The 15in LCD display is mounted in the centre of the front panel, and the only other things that appear in the front panel are the infra-red receiver, which is fairly tastefully done, a couple of small logos and the stereo speakers which sit on either side of the screen.

It stands up by resting on an extremely well designed metal stand, reminiscent of the aforementioned cello's kick-stand. The rear panel is also done out in lacquer. There are control buttons along the top for power, switching between modes, menu controls and other functions. All the connections come in beneath the screen, through a recess in the back of the unit.

It can take both s-video and composite connections, and it has an aerial input for the built-in TV tuner. There are also line-in and line-out connections for audio, as well as a VGA connector for a PC. It doesn't have any component or HDMI ports – while it's technically a high-definition screen, as all computer monitors are, it's too small for HDTV pictures to make a difference, so it's no great loss that no such connectors are available.

The screen is clear and colourful, and the sound from the built-in speakers is likewise very impressive. The remote control is used to navigate through the well-laid-out menus, although the controls are a bit slow to respond.

In all, while the Hannsvaas is expensive for a 15in television/monitor, it is extremely well built, and comes with plenty of features.