Sharp returns with new Aquos LCDs

Like other TV manufacturers at CES, Sharp is aggressively promoting its new LCDs. These will be coming mainly through two Aquos lines, the D62Us and the D92Us. The former is playing host to revisions of the 46-inch LC-46D62U and the 52-inch LC-52D62U. Each will support 1080p and use Sharp's Advanced Super View/Black TFT technology, enabling a dynamic contrast ratio of 10,000:1 (2,000:1 native). Tuners for ATSC, QAM and NTSC signals will be built in. Response times should go as low as 4ms in "Fine Motion" mode. The updated D62Us will arrive in October for $3,500 and $4,800.

The D92Us are completely new, representing the luxury end of Sharp's production. Three LCDs will be availble: the LC-42D92U, the LC-46D92U and the LC-52D92U, sized at 42, 46 and 52 inches. Improvements over the D62Us will include a third HDMI port, 15,000:1 dynamic contrast, and 120Hz frame rate conversion, which should aid eyes irritated by the 60Hz standard on most LCDs. An RS-232C terminal will allow blending into home automation systems. The 46D92U and 52D92U will be out this month for $4,200 and $5,300, with the 42D92U following in April for $3,500. Another, 65-inch TV called the LC-65D93U will ship in April for $11,000, but despite the name, will have the same features as the D92Us.