NEC’s 27-inch MultiSync PA272W (http://tinyurl.com/mdbp6wd) is a great desktop display for working with color accurate applications. Its GB-R LED backlight provides 99.3% coverage of the Adobe RGB color space. Plus, it’s available with a SpectraViewII Color Calibration Kit, which features software and a colorimeter to provide automated monitor matching and calibration for accurate, consistent and repeatable color performance
The US$1,299 NEC display utilizes an AH-IPS LCD panel that provides excellent screen performance (1000:1 contrast ratio, 2560 x 1440 native resolution at 109 PPI, 340cd/m2 brightness). It sports 14-bit 3D internal programmable lookup tables (LUTs) for calibration. Picture in Picture and Picture by Picturemodes lets you display two sources simultaneously.
The MultiProfiler software provides control over the five picture modes, including the loading of any ICC profile directly into the monitor for optimal color space matching. The DisplaySync Pro feature allows you to control two computers with only one keyboard and mouse.
The MultiSync PA272W provides lots of connectivity options, including both regular and Mini DisplayPort with 10-bit support, 10-bit HDMI, a DVI-D input as well as a USB hub. Too bad it doesn’t also come with Thunderbolt support, which would have truly made it great for Mac users.
The factory calibration of the MultiSync PA272W can be updated using an external sensor for those users who have the aforementioned SpectraViewII. This provides even more effective color control. It also showcases the time-saving features common to the MultiSync PA Series displays, including the ability to load ICC profiles to emulate custom color spaces and easily match prints.
What’s more, the free MultiProfiler software, exclusive to the MultiSync P & PA Series, provides easy-to-use control over most display settings, including print matching with Picture Mode presets, as well as Picture in Picture and Picture by Picture window configurations. MultiProfiler also lets you manage the monitor’s USB hub and enables keyboard shortcuts for changing inputs and Picture Modes.
The 27-inch monitor is designed with an ergonomic, four-way ergonomic stand (150mm height-adjust with locking base, tilt, swivel and pivot) with quick-release capability. A pair of clips on the stand’s edges helps prevent cables from getting tangled or being accidentally jerked out.
NEC’s MultiSync PA272W isn’t cheap; however, it delivers professional-class image quality for less than $1,400.
