The Sharp AQUOS 32 inch GP3U models are Sharp’s second generation of 1080p, Full HD, LCD HDTVs designed specifically for gaming. The outstanding feature of these AQUOS models is the Vyper Drive game mode for eliminating game lag. Lag (high latency) can be a cause of frustration for gamers reducing or eliminating their reaction time window.

The GP3U comes in three colors; black, red and white and all have plenty of connection options, an easy access side-mounted terminal panel and bottom mounted speaker for minimum width. For viewing flexibility, the LCD HDTVs sit on a swivel pedestal and have a wide viewing angle (176 degrees) in both the horizontal and vertical planes.

Of importance to gamers is the high brightness (450 cd/m2) providing an image with more impact and giving tolerance for high ambient light conditions. There is an OPC function which automatically alters brightness to match ambient light conditions.

Sharp’s new Advanced Super View/Black TFT LCD display panel has pixel response time of 6 milliseconds which is suitable for a gaming HDTV. A Dynamic Contrast Ratio of 8,500:1 and Native Contrast Ratio of 1700:1 deliver deeper blacks and more detail in the darker scenes prevalent in games.

While the Vyper Drive minimizes the lag generated by picture processing gamers should match the output resolution of their gaming console to the 1080p native resolution of the Sharp AQUOS GP3U models. Failing to do so will wipe away any gains made by the Vyper Drive. Read our HDTVs for Gaming technology guide to better understand the features and strategies required for a successful gaming console and HDTV set-up.

LCD display technology is suspect to motion blur and one technology to combat it, increasing the frame rate from 60 to 100 fps (frames per second), is not included with the GP3U. However, Sharp has probably rightly considered that the follow the action nature of games reduces the likelihood of conditions which may cause motion blur. It is interesting however, that the AQUOS GP3U will handle a 24 fps cinematic feed in its native format.

While the 4 wavelength backlighting provides a more than adequate available color gamut, it is not as extensive as the 5 wavelength backlighting of the latest Sharp AQUOS SE94U Special Edition series.

We are all now more than ever aware of the importance of having energy efficient consumer electronics. Sharp AQUOS GP3U models qualify for the ENERGY STAR standard.

Gaming without decent sound is something gamers would object to and Sharp have listened by including a subwoofer audio output for a strong bass sound.

Despite all the gaming attributes, the AQUOS GP3U models are HDTVs and come with built-in ATSC/QAM/NTSC tuners.

Connections

There’s no shortage of 1080p compatible connection options with 3x HDMI, 2x component and 1 DVI. HDMI is Simplay compliant having passed the testing program to ensure compatibility with other consumer electronics also carrying the Simplay logo. http://www.siliconimage.com/simplayhd.aspx HDMI is also HDMI-CEC compliant for single remote control of multiple devices connected with in a simple HDMI network. Sharp call it AQUOS LINK. The remote also has a Game Mode button for activating the Vyper Drive.

• HDMI (v1.3): 3 (2 rear/1 side)
• Ethernet port
• Component video: 2
• S-Video input: 1 side/1 rear
• A/V inputs: 1 side/1 rear
• PC Input (D-Sub): 1
• RF antenna inputs: 2
• Headphone jack

Other Features

• Picture-in-Picture for simultaneous viewing of TV programs and video or PC sources
• V-Chip for parents to block unacceptably rated broadcast content
• Trilingual on-screen displays in English, Spanish or French
• Auto wall mount compatible: 3-dimensional operation via TV’s remote control; no external IR receiver required
• 1 year parts and 1 year labor warranty

Resources

Sharp AQUOS LC-3GP3U Operation Manual (pdf 3.71MB)

Choosing a Flat Panel or Rear Projection HDTV

User Reviews and Price Comparisons

Have a look at the following online retailers for price comparisons, customer reviews and product ratings.

Sharp Aquos LC32GP3UB 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV, Black

Sharp Aquos LC32GP3UW 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV, White

Sharp Aquos LC32GP3UR 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV, Red

Extended Service Plan

Sharp LC-32GP3U-B – 32 Widescreen 1080p LCD HDTV – 10,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio – 6ms Response Time – Black

Sharp LC-32GP3U-W – 32 Widescreen 1080p LCD HDTV – 10,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio – 6ms Response Time – White

Sharp LC-32GP3U-R – 32 Widescreen 1080p LCD HDTV – 10,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio – 6ms Response Time – Red

SHARP AQUOS 32″ 1080p LCD HDTV LC-32GP3U-B

SHARP AQUOS 32″ 1080p LCD HDTV LC-32GP3U-W

SHARP AQUOS 32″ 1080p LCD HDTV LC-32GP3U-R