Digital Trends

HP w2207

July 23rd, 2007 | by Jason Tomczak

Setup and Use

Setting up the w2207 is easy. After removing the LCD screen, you should see that the base is already attached. Set the monitor upright on a desk or table. Plug the power cord (no power brick, thank goodness) into the w2207, but don't plug it into the wall yet. Connect the included 1/8-inch audio cable into the green audio-in port if you'll be using the w2207's internal speakers for sound. Connect your VGA or DVI cable, depending on which connection you will be using (both DVI and VGA cables are included with the w2207).

Once the w2207 has all cables connected to its ports, connect the corresponding ends to your computer system. Then, plug the monitor into the wall outlet. Power the w2207 up by pressing the power button on top of the LCD bezel.

Once the monitor is turned on and your OS recognizes it, you may need to configure the monitor's proper resolution of 1680 x 1050. Ninety-nine percent of the time, your OS will automatically recognize and configure the w2207's ideal screen res of 1680 x 1050.

Test your audio on the w2207 by playing an MP3 or any other audio file. Make volume adjustments on the w2207 by using the control buttons located on the lower right corner of the bezel. You may need to adjust the volume on your computer to help regulate the proper volume levels on the w2207.

Integrated Speakers
It's not really fair to expect truly impressive sound from integrated speakers in an LCD screen. At best, these 2-watt speakers (2-watt x2) will give laptop-like sound — and that's just what the w2207 provides. Bass is weak, but mids and highs are fine. While the w2207 is not going to replace a high quality external speaker system for your computer or iPod, it performs perfectly well for playing general audio files like podcasts, talk radio, audio notes for transcription, etc. and it handles TV and DVD audio well (though not really well).

Photo & DVD Results
The w2007 is quite impressive for viewing high resolution photos. The glossy screen really brings images to life. When viewing some of my favorite photographs, I found myself continually impressed with the image. Colors are unbelievably vivid, and skin tones so realistic it almost seemed like my photo subjects were sitting in front of me again.

DVDs look gorgeous too, especially because of the glossy screen of the w2207. I tested Amelie, Underworld, and Mr. and Mrs. Smith. All three films have different lighting, visual effects, and tonal qualities that render differently on varying qualities of LCD screens. Each of these movies looked fantastic on the w2207. Colors were lifelike, blacks were darker than pitch, and whites were pure. Thanks to the impressive 5ms response time and the 1000:1 contrast ratio, there was no ghosting or evidence of artifacts.


Conclusion

The HP w2207 is a great 22-inch LCD monitor that’s well-designed and aesthetically pleasing. With its low-glare, glossy screen, 5ms response time, and 1000:1 contrast ratio, the w2007’s operating specs are just what most people need. The added USB 2.0 hub and speakers (though marginal) are also important additions. At an average price of $350 USD, it certainly isn't the cheapest around, but then again, you're probably not in the market for "cheap.” When shopping for a 22-inch LCD, compare specs against your needs and choose the best option for you. The w2207 is a solid product, ideally suited for almost everything, from Word to World of Warcraft.


Pros:

• 5ms response time
• 1000:1 contrast ratio
• Portrait & Landscape screen modes
• USB 2.0 hub built in
• VGA & DVI inputs

Cons:

• Unimpressive 2-watt speakers
• Higher than average price for 22" LCD