Sharp AQUOS D64U Line

[McBain]

Press release:

New Sharp AQUOS High-Definition LCD TV Series is Bigger and Smaller at the Same Time

New D64U Line Combines Superior Picture Performance and Space Saving Design

August 15, 2007--MAHWAH, N.J.--Sharp, a worldwide leader in flat-panel Liquid Crystal Display Televisions (LCD TV), expands its widescreen, full-HD 1080p line of AQUOS® LCD TVs with the stylish D64U series. Featuring a thin, lightweight “slim-line” design that provides a significantly smaller footprint than previous models, the new line of AQUOS LCD TVs gives consumers the ability to put a bigger picture in a smaller space. The series, available in 65- (LC-65D64U), 52- (LC-52D64U), 46- (LC-46D64U) and 42-inch (LC-42D64U) screen classes, also reinforces Sharp’s mastery of LCD engineering and technology.

“The AQUOS LCD TV line has always set the standard in technology and picture quality. Today, we set a new standard in design,” said Bob Scaglione, senior vice president and group manager, Product and Marketing Group, Sharp Electronics Corporation. “With its graceful, space-saving design and full-HD resolution, Sharp’s AQUOS D64U series provides the ultimate home entertainment experience with the perfect balance of style and performance.”

By re-engineering the circuitry layout inside the LCD panel and cutting the number of parts, Sharp has created the thinnest large screen flat panel television in the industry* - with a body that is approximately 25% slimmer than previous AQUOS models and about 20% lighter than previous models. The D64U series also features a thinner bezel, and tight fit stealth speakers, giving consumers the ability to fit larger screens in smaller spaces. For example, the LC-42D64U has a footprint that’s roughly the size of a conventional 40-inch LCD TV. This revolutionary design improvement, coupled with easily accessible side terminals, provide much more flexibility in wall mounting applications. The series’ elegant design includes a piano black cabinet with a subtle wave concealing the recessed, bottom-mounted speakers.

The D64U AQUOS series provides a superior Full HD 1080p picture with unmatched performance, utilizing Sharp’s proprietary Advanced Super View (ASV) / Black TFT Panel with multi-pixel technology. Manufactured at Sharp’s state-of-the-art Kameyama LCD panel factory, Sharp’s ASV panels feature decreased colorshift and extraordinary LCD performance, enabling an impressive Dynamic Contrast Ratio of 10,000:1, with Enhanced Picture Contrast Technology. Enhanced Fine Motion video circuitry delivers the industry’s fastest pixel response time of 4 ms**, providing stunning picture quality even on fast-moving action scenes. Black levels have also been enhanced on these models for the deepest, most accurate levels of any LCD TV. Sharp’s proprietary 4-wavelength backlight system rounds out these enhanced specs, providing deeper, more vibrant reds. Viewing angles on these sets are an impressive 176 degrees, enabling the color reproduction to appear vivid from virtually anywhere in the room, for a top-of-the-line total home theater package.

The D64U line comes equipped with a host of connectivity options for the utmost convenience. For easy access in wall mounting, the series includes three side terminal inputs: one HDMITM input, one component and one composite. In the rear, there are two additional HDMITM inputs, one component, two composite, one S-video, a dedicated PC input and RS-232C for system control. The HDMITM and component inputs are compatible with 1080p signals from Blu-ray and advanced gaming devices. The HDMITM inputs feature version 1.3, which adds compatibility with many high-end features such as enhanced colors and audio, and they are compatible with AQUOS Link, which enables convenient control of compatible devices.

The D64U models also exemplify Sharp’s effort to become an environmentally advanced company. They are Energy Star qualified, and feature reduced power consumption compared to previous AQUOS models.

Pricing and availability

* LC-65D64U will be available in September; pricing is to be announced
* LC-52D64U will be available in August for a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $3,799.99
* LC-46D64U will be available in August for an MSRP of $2,699.99
* LC-42D64U will be available in August for an MSRP of $2,099.99

For more information on Sharp’s full line of Liquid Crystal Televisions, contact Sharp Electronics Corporation, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J. 07430, or call 800-BE-SHARP. For online product information, visit Sharp’s Web site at sharpusa.com.

Sharp Electronics Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Japan's Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer of one-of-a-kind home entertainment products, appliances, networked multifunctional office solutions, solar energy solutions and mobile communication and information tools. Leading brands include AQUOS® Liquid Crystal Televisions, 1-Bit™ digital audio products, SharpVision® projection products, Insight® Microwave Drawers®, and Notevision® multimedia projectors. For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at www.sharpusa.com.

*Large screen = 46” screen class and above

**With “Fine Motion Mode” on