Audio Video News

LCD televisions are making great strides toward truly high-definition performance - in particular, the newest models in the Aquos line from Sharp Electronics.

On July 29, Sharp announced new widescreen Aquos LCD HDTV models, the GD4U and GD6U series. These new integrated LCD sets are high-definition televisions with 1366 x 768 resolution and built-in CableCARD slots for "plug and play" capability. With the new sets, consumers can enjoy the latest cable-TV HDTV programming without the added bulk or expense of an additional set-top box.

Sharp's integrated HDTVs come in 26", 32", and 37" screen sizes. The GD4U and GD6U Aquos models feature built-in HDTV tuners with full CableCARD compatibility, meaning that consumers simply obtain a CableCARD from their local cable provider for easy and quick access to high-definition programming.

These Aquos models also include PC card slots, allowing users to view digital still images and full-motion video from a digital memory card right on the TV. The image trails, "stair-stepping," and "screen door" effects that have hampered the performance of previous LCD TVs are said to by minimized by Sharp's proprietary "Quick Shoot" video technology that optimizes pixel response time for fast-moving images. Sharp states that "the arrival of these new Aquos models will enable users to enjoy life-like, high-definition images from the growing availability of high-resolution, digital broadcasts on an impressively large screen."

As with previous Aquos models, the new GD4U and GD6U series use Sharp's proprietary "Advanced Super View" (ASV) LCD panels with black TFT low-reflection coating which dramatically reduces glare, so they can be placed anywhere, the company claims—even near windows, doors or other light sources. The units offer 170-degree viewing angles, enabling consumers to watch TV clearly from anywhere in the room, as well as extremely high contrast for blacker blacks and clear, vivid pictures, and high brightness with exceptional color clarity. The sets have detachable side or bottom speakers for more placement flexibility, and they feature Sharp's 1-bit digital amplification audio system for improved sound.

The sets' silver or titanium finish are said to "fit seamlessly into any dcor, and the detachable table stand and speakers allow the televisions to be installed in a variety of design scenarios, including wall mounting."

All products in the Aquos line offer a long-life backlight (60,000 hours), multiple video signal inputs, one or more built-in cable TV tuners, remote control, V-Chip and high brightness for more vibrant colors in darker environments. Aquos TVs are currently available in 13" to 37" screen sizes, in traditional 4:3 and widescreen 16:9 aspect ratios. In August, Sharp will offer a 45" LCD TV, the largest available with built-in DTV capability and "plug and play" CableCARD slot.