Sharp recently expanded its 1080p line of Aquos LCD TVs with the D64U series. The new line of LCD TVs gives consumers the ability to put a bigger picture in a smaller space. The series is available in 65- (LC-65D64U), 52- (LC-52D64U), 46- (LC-46D64U) and 42-inch (LC-42D64U) classes, according to the company.

By re-engineering the circuitry layout inside the LCD panel and cutting the number of parts, Sharp claims it has created the thinnest large screen flat-panel TV in the industry- with a body that is approximately 25% slimmer than previous Aquos models and about 20% lighter. The D64U series also features a thinner bezel, and tight fit stealth speakers. For example, the LC-42D64U has a footprint that is roughly the size of a conventional 40-inch LCD TV, according to Sharp.

The TVs are adopting Sharp's Advanced Super View (ASV) panels, which feature a dynamic contrast ratio of 10,000:1 and response time of 4ms. Viewing angles on these sets are 176-degrees.

The D64U line comes equipped with several connectivity options; and for wall mounting, the series includes three side terminal inputs: one HDMI input, one component and one composite. At the rear, there are two additional HDMI inputs, one component, two composite, one S-video, a dedicated PC input and RS-232C for system control. The HDMI inputs are version 1.3 and along with the component inputs are compatible with 1080p signals from Blu-ray and gaming devices, pointed out Sharp.

The 65-inch version will be available in September with pricing to be announced, while the 52-inch model will be available in August for a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of US$3,799.99. The 46-inch and 42-inch TVs will be available in August for an MSRP of US$2,699.99 and US$2,099.99, respectively.