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Sharp Aquos Boosts HD Readiness with New LCD TV Ranges (15/7/2005)

With Sky due to launch its HDTV service in the UK in 2006, High Definition is capturing the imagination of the home cinema fan, and Sharp is enhancing its HD Ready offering of Aquos LCD televisions with two new ranges.

The Aquos GA6 and GD7 series of LCD TVs provide superb HD Ready performance, covering the analogue and idTV sectors respectively. Complementing the PAL-optimised P50 series, the two new ranges further broaden Sharp's comprehensive LCD TV portfolio, targeting early adopters and home theatre enthusiasts.

The GD7 LCD idTV series is the next generation of Sharp's high-end Aquos Titanium line. As the name suggests, the 32 inch LC-32GD7E and 37 inch LC-37GD7E models are finished in a satin titanium colour but, unlike previous Titanium TVs, they have the digital terrestrial tuner fully built in to the flat panel screen, rather than sitting separately in an AV centre unit. This results in a neater idTV, with no need to find space for an additional box under the television.

The GD7 combines a high performance LCD with a cutting-edge digital tuner to create an impressive flat panel idTV. The 1366 x 768 resolution screen incorporates Sharp's own Advanced Super View (ASV) and Black TFT technology for excellent clarity images, boasting an 800:1 contrast ratio, 450cd/m2 brightness and ultra-low reflectivity. A de-juddering system ensures even more natural pictures, whilst 170¡ horizontal and vertical viewing angles deliver great pictures to almost any position in the room.

An HDMI terminal with HDCP allows digital connection to HDTV services when available, and the TV also has two Scarts, Component, S-Video, Video and PC inputs for full multimedia capabilities. The integrated digital tuner includes a seven day EPG, and Fastext, including Picture & Text, plus NextView enhance the viewing experience. Audio is output via two 10W speakers housed behind a distinctive double-curve grille beneath the screen, with Virtual Dolby Surround an option.

The analogue Aquos GA6 series comprises 26 inch, 32 inch and 37 inch models, and takes its styling cues from the GD7 series. These TVs also have 1366 x 768 resolution, with the same brightness and contrast performance as their idTV counterparts. In addition, the screen incorporates Quick Shoot technology for smooth video playback, and Optical Picture Control to adjust brightness to suit the lighting in the room.

Connectivity matches that of the GD7, including HDMI, and an additional, unusual feature is a built-in stereo FM radio.

The Aquos GD7 and GA6 series launch in September, joining the mass-market P50 series and the 45 inch full high definition (1920 x 1080 resolution) model to complete Sharp's comprehensive LCD TV range for Christmas.

www.sharp.co.uk