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Philips launches Ambilight Surround TV range (2/10/2006)

The new Ambilight Surround LCD TVs feature a host of new proprietary technologies that combine to finally give Philips LCD screens the outright picture performance crown. Brighter, whiter and sharper than ever before, the latest additions to the Ambilight range also set the benchmark for contrast and motion reproduction.

The three-model range Ð 32PF9731D, 37PF9731D & 42PF9731D Ð all include the latest version of PhilipsÕ Pixel Plus resolution enhancement system Ð Pixel Plus 3HD (which can even improve HD sources), Clear LCD technology to improve contrast and motion reproduction and also PhilipsÕ award-winning ambient light technology, Ambilight.

ixel Plus 3HD is applied entirely in the digital domain and is capable of processing each and every single pixel from either 1080i or 720P sources and without first having to downscale them.

The Pixel Plus engine also works in conjunction with a new MPEG meter which analyses the quality of all incoming signals and adjusts the level of processing accordingly Ð ensuring SD feeds are not over processed. The result is superb high resolution images, for both HD and SD signals virtually free from digital artefacts or noise.

In addition, Colour Booster technology delivers accurate colour balance Ð providing vivid colours while preserving natural skin tones and white levels.

PhilipsÕ new Clear LCD feature uses new Hot Cathode Florescent Lamp (HCFL) technology Ð specially developed by the companyÕs lighting division Ð to provide a scanning, dimmable backlight which, in combination with the exceptionally fast 6ms liquid crystal response time and the Overdrive Control system, allows LCD TVs to claim market leading performance for contrast and motion reproduction.ÊÊÊÊÊ

All of the new sets also feature PhilipsÕ award winning Ambilight technology that enhances the viewing experience by independently projecting light from the sides of the set, with the lightÕs colour and intensity accurately matching the on-screen content. Ambilight also improves perceived on-screen picture quality by reducing eye strain.

The 37Ó and 42Ó sets feature a new version of the system, Ambilight Surround, which includes a third projection of Ambilight on top of the cabinet to extend the light coverage, creating an even more immersive experience to draw the viewer further into the action.

Philips also remains the only manufacturer to combine motion compensation with resolution enhancement via the Digital Natural Motion system found on all three sets; essential to prevent the judder created when viewing movie material.

Ready for analogue switch-off, all three sets features an integrated digital tuner, with a seven day programme guide, providing reception to the wide range of digital TV channels and radio stations available via Freeview.

The 32PF9731D and 42PF9731D are based around a 1366 x 768 resolution panel while the 37PF9731D TV boasts a 1920 x 1080 screen.Ê Naturally, a great set needs a great look and these models have a slim-line build and come in a high-quality, high gloss black finish with a specially matched swivel stand.

The impressive speaker array includes two dome tweeters and two woofers, incorporating PhilipsÕ patented wOOx bass extension technology, which are carefully integrated into base of the set.

All three boast connections for just about every conceivable application, including two HDMI ports, two RGB scart sockets, component video input, S/PDIF in/out and an Ethernet port on the rear, while on the side of the set youÕll find twin USB sockets and a multi-slot memory card reader. The sets also include PC Link software to offer easy access to the photos, music and movies stored on your computer hard disc.

Expected high street price or the average selling price

32PF9731D £1,799
37PF9731D £2,499
42PF9731D £3,000

www.philips.com