Sharp Aquos LC32GD8E review

As with all Aquos models, the screen features an Advanced Super View Black TFT panel that offers low reflection qualities and enhanced viewing angles, so you can sit off-centre without distorting the image. But there's an absence of any proprietary processing systems such as 0Sharp's TruD anti-judder technology.

There is an impressive array of practical picture and sound options, however. Even compared to more expensive screens such as Panasonic's TX-32LXD60, there's a far greater choice of interactive adjustments. All settings are accessed through a single-screen menu system that's simple to use.

You can use several preset modes or customise your own settings using several unexpectedly advanced adjustments, including colour temperature, black level and monochrome controls. There's also a clever Optical Picture Control option that uses a light sensor to automatically adjust settings according to your room's brightness.

Sound options are equally extensive, including a surround mode, auto volume control to prevent blaring advert breaks and a Clear Voice function that enhances the clarity of dialogue.

Out-of-the-box settings are exaggerated, so spending time tinkering with adjustments will produce a more realistic picture -- you couldn't really ask for more control from a budget screen.

Performance
Picture performance is on a par with similarly priced screens such as Samsung's LE32R74BD and LG's 32LC2D, which is not exceptional compared to class-leading models, but still excellent value for money.

The bright colour balance produces instantly engaging images -- with even difficult-to-render red tones appearing untarnished. However, this is a common LCD ploy to attract attention away from more challenging picture elements such as detail and contrast. And, while detail and edge definition is fine, black levels aren't deep enough to coax the sort of three-dimensional contrast that separates the more expensive class-leaders.

TV broadcasts and standard-definition video are excellent, but we didn't find the expected leap in performance when upgrading to high-definition sources. Detail definitely improves but lingering digital artefacts and background instability, especially using upscaled signals, detracts from an otherwise acceptable picture.

The various sound features are useful, especially the Clear Voice function, but like all LCDs, the slim speakers restrict audio performance and if you're a film enthusiast we suggest supplementing them with a sound system.

Edited by Mary Lojkine
Additional editing by Nick Hide