Sharp has just unveiled its first collection of LED backlight TVs, the LE600 and LE700 series. All models combine AQUOS LCD technology with a LED backlight system to deliver top image quality and energy-efficient performance. The LE600 is available in 32in, 40in and 46in models while the LE700 also includes a 52in model. The LE700 series utilises 100Hz technology and a rapid pixel response time of 4ms, providing the perfect medium for high-definition viewing.
The AQUOS LED series features several eco-friendly improvements. The full screen LED backlight enables precise light output with higher luminance per watt so less overall power is needed – only 0.01W when in stand-by mode. The system adjusts the screen brightness to the level of light in the room. In fact, this series offers 40% less power consumption than traditional LCD backlight technology. These TV series also use eco-friendly components and are mercury free.
Paul Molyneux, managing director, Sharp Electronics UK, commented on the launch to IER: “We accelerated the launch of LED technology, which originally was due early next year, because of the current economic and competitive pressures. Sharp is a number one player in the flat panel TV market in Japan with 45% market share (in the UK, Sharp’s market share is 3%). There are big differences between the two markets. Because Japan has a HD terrestrial signal, televisions are sold on quality of the panel, and Sharp has an excellent reputation for quality. In Britain TVs are still sold on price, and to a certain extent also on design. With the progress of digital switchover the British consumer will gradually focus on picture quality which will be good news for us. Then LED will come into its own.”
At the same time Sharp introduced a new series of DKAP7 iPod docking stations which combine high-end design with top quality sound. The powerful 2.1 channel speaker system with the integrated subwoofer with HDSS technology maximises bass response and minimises distortion. The light and portable station comes in glossy black, silver, white and red casing.
To its audio portfolio, the company has also added a compact soundbar (ideal for wall mounting), the HTSB200 which offers a 2.1 channel surround sound, an integrated subwoofer and various adjustable acoustic options to any home cinema enthusiast. Moreover, an updated Sharp Blu-ray player, the BD-HP22H, now comes with BD-Live technology.
Sharp and indies
Sharp has not previously had a close relationship with the independent channel but this is changing fast. Paul Molyneux comments: “In previous years we were reaching the independent channel through CIH but we moved away from CIH and now are talking to independents directly. We retained and, in fact, enlarged our sales team. We feel that our technology is a good proposition for this channel. Moreover we are now launching a series of high quality fridge freezers in the UK (showcased at the launch) which should be of interest to this sector. Our new cooling appliances feature hybrid cooling which keeps food fresh for longer and maintains dry air in the fridge. Over the next twelve months we will also be rolling out, in our home appliances (which will include air sterilisers), a new plasma cluster technology which generates oxygenated positive and negative ions which helps to eliminate odours and keep air hygienically clean.
“We are launching the new LED TVs with a five-year guarantee – to give retailers and consumers peace of mind. We also have an attractive Blu-ray package offer: with a 40in and 46in LED TV from the 600 and 700 series for the period of the first six weeks (from 24 August to 31 October) customers will get a free Blu-ray player. Sharp has also developed a range of new PoS for the LED TV range and will provide in-store demonstrators.”
