Sharp Aquos LC32RD2E review

Sharp Aquos LC32RD2E Review

Reviewed by: Richard Arrowsmith

Reviewed on: 20 July 2007

What separates Sharp's latest RD2E range from typical LCD designs is that it features advanced 100Hz technology. This should, in theory, improve common LCD constraints, such as unnatural images and staggered movement.

Put simply, the technology doubles the screen's refresh rate so that individual images are replaced more quickly while eliminating the pauses in between. This creates brighter images with more cohesive movement compared to standard models using 50Hz scanning.

This advanced specification was once reserved for more expensive models but Sharp's long-standing experience with LCDs means that the technology is now available at more affordable prices. The difference it makes to performance is impressive.

Design
Although build quality isn't quite as attentive, the design appears similar to Sharp's more expensive XDE1 range. The screen features a broad, lacquered black surround with silver edging that integrates a slim speaker system at the base. The frame is supported by a self-assembled pedestal stand that can be swiveled to allow more flexible positioning with wall mounting options also available.

There are limited controls at the top of the unit that can be used to adjust channels and volume or select a different input source, but you can't access the main menu system without the remote.

The tall, tapered remote looks suitably stylish and is generally easy to use with several short-cut keys to save you from always accessing the menus. It isn't the most spacious, though, and most controls are frustratingly small.

Apart from basic composite and stereo inputs at the side of the screen, all connections are concealed beneath a removable panel at the rear. There are two HDMI digital inputs that can be used to support high-definition images, and conventional users can rely on two RGB-enabled Scart terminals.

Progressive scan supporting component inputs have been ignored altogether, but you can still make component connections through the VGA PC terminal using a supplied adaptor cable. Elsewhere, there's another set of standard AV inputs, a CI card slot for receiving limited subscription channels and a RS-232 terminal for external control.

Features
As mentioned, 100Hz technology or so-called 'Double Frame Driving' is the screen's main selling point. With LCDs, individual images always remain visible until they are replaced by the following image. Using 100Hz scanning to speed up the refresh rate from 8ms to 4ms reduces this lag to create perceivably sharper images with smoother movement.

Another advanced technology that's filtered down from more expensive models is Sharp's TruD HD processing, which claims to reduce the smearing effect and stuttered movement during fast action scenes. Otherwise, it's an average specification that includes 720p and 1080i high-definition compatibility and integrated analogue and digital TV tuners.

Channels are automatically tuned the instant you turn the TV on but the process takes quite a while, especially for the analogue channels. The main menu system is vaguely transparent and positioned to one side of the screen but doesn't disappear while you adjust the settings, making it difficult to properly calibrate your TV.