LAS VEGAS, NV, January 8, 2009 — Sharp today introduces the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) AQUOS® E Series, including the E77U models and the E67U models, rounding out a lineup of new Full-HD 1080p LCD TVs that bring enhanced picture quality to the forefront. The E Series features the E77U models in 65- (64 33/64" diagonal), 52- (52 1/32" diagonal), 46- (45 63/64" diagonal) and 40-inch (40" diagonal) screen class sizes (LC-65E77U, LC-52E77U, LC-46E77U and LC-40E77U respectively), and the E67U models in 40- (40" diagonal) and 32-inch (31 35/64" diagonal) screen class sizes (LC-40E67U and LC-32E67U respectively).

All E series models employ a new Advanced Super View (ASV) Superlucent Panel for a dramatically bright and crisp picture with reduced haze and reflectivity. Additionally, the entire series boasts a new elegant design with color accents at the bottom of the frame and a newly designed convenient swivel stand.

“When consumers decide to purchase a flat-screen TV, their top priority is superior picture quality. With the AQUOS E Series, Sharp is giving consumers a powerful combination of image-enhancing features and a wide range of choices across several screen sizes,” said Bob Scaglione, senior vice president and group manager, Product and Marketing Group, Sharp Electronics Corporation.

E77U Series
The E77U Series features Sharp’s Fine Motion Enhanced technology for 120Hz Frame Rate Conversion and a fast pixel response time of 4ms, ensuring the LC-65E77U, LC-52E77U, LC-46E77U and LC-40E77U provide the ultimate medium for high-definition viewing of fast-action imagery.

With Sharp’s new 10-bit ASV Superlucent panel and 10-bit processing engine, the E77U models are able to achieve maximum expression of the Full-HD 1080p picture. The Superlucent panel applies an ultra-smooth finish that minimizes gloss while intensifying panel brightness and contrast. The ASV panel with Spectral Contrast Engine XD (Extreme Dark), UD (Ultra Dark) on the LC-40E77U, provides a high dynamic contrast ratio, enabling deep blacks and vibrant colors, and a special dejudder feature results in the smooth reproduction of film content.

Two components of the Spectral Contrast Engine, Optical Picture Control (OPC), which automatically adjusts luminance to room brightness and lighting conditions, and Brightness Preservation picture processing also make these models very energy efficient. In fact, all models in this series exceed the EPA’s ENERGY STAR® certification requirement by at least 15%.

Not only does the E77U series provide a stunning picture, but it also features a new design sure to complement any decor. The black cabinet blends elegantly into to a soft champagne gold hue that accents the bottom of the frame, befitting both modern and traditional design schemes. The series also comes equipped with a full array of connectivity options, including five HDMI™ (version 1.3 with Deep Color and 24p input capability) and two component video inputs, all of which are 1080p compatible, accepting signals from Blu-ray and advanced gaming devices. A dedicated PC input and RS-232 port for custom installations add to the feature set.

E67U Series
Both E67U models incorporate Sharp’s ASV Superlucent panel technology, providing the most detailed Full HD 1080p picture possible. Additionally, these models come fully equipped with HD inputs – four HDMI with 24p input capability and two component video inputs, all 1080p compatible.

Like the E77U models, the E67U models include energy saving features with Sharp’s OPC and adhere to the new ENERGY STAR® standards. The E67 models also boast a new design, with a subtle copper hue at the bottom of the cabinet and swivel convenience.

The LC-32E67U also comes equipped with advanced gaming features to satisfy video gamers looking for superior picture quality. Sharp’s proprietary Vyper Drive circuit reduces the lag time between the game console input and the TV display to imperceptible levels, ensuring video gamers a seamless gaming experience.

Pricing and availability

LC-65E77U will be available in June for a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $4,499.99.
LC-52E77U will be available in February for an MSRP of $2,399.99.
LC-46E77U will be available in February for an MSRP of $2,099.99.
LC-40E77U will be available in March for an MSRP of $1,399.99.
LC-40E67U will be available in March for an MSRP of $1,199.99.
LC-32E67U will be available in February for an MSRP of $899.99.

The models 26-inch(LC-26DX1), 32-inch(LC-32DX1), 37-inch(LC-37DX1), 42-inch(LC-42DX1), 46-inch(LC-46DX1) and 52-inch (LC-52DX1) have a built-in HDTV Tuner and speakers. The 26-inch and 32-inch models have a resolution of 1366×768, where as the rest of ‘em have a Full HD 1080p resolution of 1920×1080.

All the models are based on Kameyama LCD Panel, which provides smooth quality of pictures.

The models from 37-inch to 52-inch have a contrast ratio of 2000:1, a viewing angle of 176°, HDMI (x2) / D4 Video (x2) / S2 Video / Video (x3) / Analog RGB inputs, as well as Monitor / Headphone / Digital Audio (optical) output.

The 26 and 32-inch series have a contrast ratio of 1500:1 and brightness of 450cd/m², 20W speakers, as well as HDMI (x2) / D4 Video (x2) / S2 Video / Video (x2) / Analog RGB inputs, as well as Monitor / Headphone / Digital Audio (optical) output.

You can record your favorite programs in H.264/AVC format while watching another favorite program at the same time with the help of Digital W Tuner.

All the models are compatible with BD-RE V2.1 and BD-R V1.1 recordable discs. Will hit the stores in November.

Price: 1200€ to 3600€ (1634$ to 4903$) depending on the size.