Sharp Aquos LC32RD2E review

There are several picture presets, of which the Dynamic mode seems to work best in most environments. Flexible backlight control and a brightness sensor that automatically adjusts according to ambient light can also be used if your room is susceptible to changing conditions. The usual custom settings are accompanied by advanced adjustments, including colour temperature control and a black level enhancer. Unlike similar features in some models, they noticeably influence the picture.

As for sound, there's an additional virtual surround mode that attempts to create greater spaciousness from the typically restrictive speakers, and a Clear Voice feature, which brings dialogue to the fore. Most of the picture and sound settings involve a simple choice of modes instead of fiddly fine-tuning, which makes them easier to use and saves time.

Digital channels are accompanied by an advanced EPG, which includes detailed programme information with moving thumbnails and sound. But channel listings are given limited space and you can only view four schedules at a time.

Performance
The influence of 100Hz technology is obviously apparent while watching TV programmes, especially fast moving action like sports programmes. Movement is more clean and cohesive without any jerkiness or blurring around the edges. Even challenging movement featuring changing pace and unpredictable spins from the Wimbledon Tennis Championships was impressively dealt with -- so sports enthusiasts should take note.

Colours are beautifully realised and rich without appearing over exaggerated. This allows you to enjoy vibrant pop videos and then turn to more natural TV dramas without any compromise. Picture noise is also carefully controlled with only the occasional shimmering straight line and uneven shadow gradations disturbing an otherwise remarkably clean picture.

The screen's already impressive realism is enhanced with high-definition content courtesy of deeper black levels, encouraging intricate detail and three-dimensional contrast. Watching Pan's Labyrinth draws you into the detailed dream fantasies without losing definition in the dark, macabre scenes that punctuate the film.

Movement sets new standards for small-sized LCDs, especially watching adrenaline-fuelled action flicks. During Ghost Rider, the whipping motion of the hero's flaming chain is impeccably smooth and smear free, and the fight scenes against the demons are fluid and unflinching.

There's little to criticise the picture for, but the sound is typically disappointing. Although detail and expression are acceptable there's no weight or depth, and adjusting the bass settings or using the surround mode only seems to improve one characteristic at the expense of another.

Conclusion
Sharp's LC32RD2E isn't necessarily the finest LCD on the market -- more expensive models from the likes of Sony and Philips can claim even more impressive image quality and diligent designs.

As an entry-level model for around £650, however, the screen sets new standards for affordable LCDs. The specification is nothing out of the ordinary but the underlying technology including 100Hz scanning is impressive at this price and picture performance is excellent.

Enhanced realism and movement, especially watching sports programmes or video gaming, are the biggest beneficiaries for a screen that offers exceptional quality for unbeatable value.

Edited by Jason Jenkins
Additional editing by Kate Macefield