Pioneer Kuro concept HDTVs

Pioneer's contribution to CES 2008 is headlined by new technologies that will form the basis of its KURO plasma HDTVs for the near future. Nicknamed the Extreme Contrast Concept, the first technology is the only flat-panel set known to have a theoretically infinite contrast ratio: unlike any other LCD or plasma, the ECC can completely shut off lighting to parts of the screen. This provides an absolute black where virtually every other set can only reach dark grays, Pioneer claims.

A separate technology, represented in the KURO Advance, will also eliminate the clutter for other sets. New engineering processes have allowed the company to produce a 50-inch set which is only 9mm (0.35 inches) deep. This creates an image which appears to be floating or is almost perfectly flush with a wall, the company notes. The lack of extra cabinetry also reduces the weight to 41 pounds and makes even such a large set easier to carry or mount.

Pioneer intends to release both the 9mm and Extreme Contrast sets as production models, though it notes that refining the techniques behind either set means they will not ship during 2008.

By Electronista Staff