Sharp Takes 2D to New Dimension

Amid reports that 3DTV sales are struggling in NZ, Sharp has launched an innovative 2D alternative that’s impressing critics overseas.

Its groundbreaking Quattron quad pixel technology has been rolled out here in three, LE820X screen sizes – 40 inches, 46 and 52 – for prices ranging from $2,900 to $4,800.

It differs from conventional LCD TVs by adding a fourth sub pixel — yellow — to increase the colour spectrum beyond what’s possible with the traditional red, green and blue arrangement.

“Quattron technology enables over eight million sub pixels (the standard is six million), which results in never before seen colours and a brighter, clearer picture using less power,” Sharp claims.

“When combined with Sharp’s 1080P X-Gen LCD panel, incorporating UV²A Technology, and edge-lit LED backlight, energy consumption is dramatically reduced compared to conventional fluorescent-backlight LCD TVs.”

The TVs have excited reviewers in the UK and Australia. Digital Trends marked it 8/10, and said it “stands up to some of the best HDTVs we’ve tested”, while Tech Radar, in a five-star review, reckons: “Forget 3D, Quattron technology is here to blow you away.”

Australia’s pro-consumer site, Channel News, also awarded it 5/5: “In an eight-screen comparison that included a top of the range Panasonic plasma, a budget Panasonic plasma TV and a Sony Bravia LED TV, were we able to see the significant difference that the Quattron technology delivers …

“This is an excellent TV and I suspect that Sharp’s Quattron technology could become a benchmark for future TV display quality.”

However, HDTVtest rated Quattron TV only “average” despite some strong points. “Sadly, the overall package is just not hugely compelling — especially given the existence of cheaper, superior alternatives.”

The display is only 39 millimetres thick, has Fine Motion Advanced technology 100Hz frame rate conversion to reduce motion blur, and comes with a three-year warranty.

Connections include: HDMI x 4, AV-In x 1, Xomponent x 1, PC In as well as AV, Optical Audio and headphone out terminals and a USB terminal for media playback and LAN (RJ45) terminals.