The P922E's notable design touches include support for USB 2.0 in its built-in four-port hub. (USB 2.0 permits faster transfers than the older USB 1.1 standard that is still more common in monitor-installed hubs.) In addition, we were pleased to find a volume knob for the integrated speakers--a welcome change from many speaker-equipped monitors that require the user to enter the on-screen controls to change the volume.

The P922E was a lackluster performer on our image-quality tests, taking the lowest score of all 19-inch LCDs we have reviewed on our gray-scale and color-scale test screens, which show the monitor's capability for displaying subtle variations in shading and color. Our photo of a fruit tart looked a bit dark, and the yellows and reds in the peaches and strawberries appeared a tad too orange. In another photograph, the children depicted had unnatural-looking skin tones.

The speakers sounded extremely weak, even with the volume fully cranked up. They will suffice for issuing system alerts, but not for playing music while you work. (The monitor does provide a headphone port, however.)

A blocky-looking monitor, the P922E has a thick matte-silver bezel that widens at the bottom to accommodate the integrated speakers. Its utilitarian design appears a generation or two behind its many sleek, thin-bezeled competitors. The panel tilts, and the entire monitor swivels on a lazy Susan, turntable mechanism.

The control buttons that run down the right side of the bezel are easy to decipher, and they control a basic but well-designed set of on-screen menus. Though the P922E does not come with any printed documentation, an included CD has a serviceable manual in HTML format, with setup and adjustment information.

The P922E has only middling image quality, and it's pricey--even for a 19-inch LCD with speakers and USB.

Sean Captain

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