If you are looking for a 12v TV for the car or motorhome, or you’re looking for a caravan TV, you will get nothing better than the Avtex. It’s reputation is well-deserved and I thought it high time to write a new review – in this case I chose the 19-inch TV DVD Combi model – the Avtex W193D – and it’s a cracker!
Let’s take a look at some of the questions we often get asked:
How does the quality compare to other makes of 12v TV?
If you don’t already know, Avtex are second to none in the 12v TV market when it comes to quality. This unit is a stylish glossy black (you can get it in white too), and because it is designed for vehicular use, state-of-the-art shock absorption is built-in. There is also a handy leg that folds out so that the screen props itself up when on a flat surface. What really sets this model apart from its competitors, though, is its superb picture. Did you know, the W193D range is the first 12v TV in the UK to be HD-ready? Please don’t try to save a few pounds by getting a less reputable brand of dubious quality – you will only end up replacing it with an Avtex later!
12v TV Avtex W193D
Does it have Freeview?
Oh yes, this 12v TV has not only a digital Freeview tuner, but also an analogue one in case you prefer to pick up the existing analogue channels before the digital switch-over.
How easy is it to use?
Well, in a word – easy! This model comes with digital text and auto-sorting of the freeview channels, so you can tune it all with one touch of the button. It’s all very intuitive.
Does it run off the mains as well as 12v?
Yes – it comes with a 240v AC and 12v DC adapter.
How big is it?
Designed for use in the car or lorry or as a caravan TV, the unit is slim and light. Bearing in mind it has a built-in DVD player, it is very compact measuring just 365mm in height, 498mm wide and 165mm deep from front to back. It weighs a very reasonable 7.1kg.
How good is the built-in DVD player?
Again, this comes back to the great reputation of Avtex as the leading supplier of 12v TVs. This is a top-flight unit with top-quality components – so unlike many a cheap DVD player, don’t expect problems with this TV DVD Combi. Oh, and as well as playing your favourite DVD boxed set, this one also plays music CDs. Let’s face it, when you get your Avtex, there is going to be no end to your caravan/motorhome entertainment!
What’s the sound quality like?
As with most 12v TV models, size limits the power of the built-in speakers, but they are still excellent and I can find no complaints. If you really want a blast of power though, the unit has phono sockets so you can connect the TV to your existing surround sound speakers. A particularly useful addition to this latest model is an RF transmitter – a real first for the 12v TV. What this means is that you can pick up the sound from the TV on your radio or motorhome/caravan’s car head unit, just by tuning it to the FM frequency that the television is broadcasting on. How clever is that?
| Avtex W193D technical specifications:
Resolution 1440 * 900 |
The Verdict
If you want a top quality TV DVD Combi to use as a caravan TV, a motorhome TV, or for the car or any other vehicle, you will have to go a long way to beat the quality offered by this Avtex. You can get cheaper models with less in the way of features and lower quality components, but in the long run, this model is likely to last longer, give you less trouble, and provide you with years of enjoyment for your money. I rate it a very impressive and rare 9.5 out of 10.
A little tip – all Avtex models are in demand at this time of year, so don’t leave it until the last minute. To check the latest offer price and live stock availability, you can click this link: 12v TV – Avtex.
