By Keri Algar
SYDNEY, NSW: Earlier this week, Current.com.au compared the most expensive TVs on the market from each of the Big 4 suppliers. Today, our focus turns to the Tier 2 competitors. Whilst the RRPs are not hitting the same heights as Samsung’s $10,000 revelation, it pays to know what features a more pennywise consumer receives for a new panel.
TEAC LE5588FHD (RRP $3,999)
The TEAC 55-inch 88 Series LED LCD TV, at a slim 2 centimetres thick, represents the latest in HDTV for the company. It can record live television onto a thumb drive or an external hard drive, allows playback of video files, music and photos from compatible USB devices, and has four HDMI inputs, allowing for easy connection of Blu-ray and other visual products.
SHARP LC52LE700X (RRP $3,699)
The most expensive TV that Sharp has on the market at the moment eliminates the blurring effect by using full HD and 100Hz technology, making it ideal for watching sport. This 52-inch LED panel has a 7-star energy rating and power consumption can be reduced by up to half by using the LED backlight.
TOSHIBA XL700A LED 47-inch XL700A (RRP $2,799)
This model offers instant access to the internet with a WiFi adaptor, enabling internet TV. It automatically analyses lighting conditions in the room and the incoming video signal to create the optimal picture in all lighting conditions. It has a 6-star energy rating and includes an automatic power down function where it will turn itself off after 4 hours.
VIVO 55-inch LCD TV FULL HD LTV55FHD (RRP $1,895)
The LTV55FHD Full HD LCD TV incorporates a DVB-T Tuner, allowing customers to watch all free-to-air channels, including the new digital networks. For less than half the price of a TEAC, this Vivo TV features 2 HDMI inputs and access to Teletext. At over $8,000 cheaper than Samsung’s Series 9 panel, this could be the best value for money 55-inch, Full HD TV on sale today.
Additional reporting by Patrick Avenell.