Sharp AQUOS D78UN Series 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV Review

The Sharp AQUOS D78UN series Full HD (1080p) 120Hz LCD HDTV is a more affordable LCD HDTV offering which still delivers all the rich detail that comes with full high definition. It has AquoMotion 120 (Hz) to near eliminate the blur and motion artifacts that come with the fast moving action of sports broadcasts and action programs. The Sharp D78UN models have a leading edge fast (4 ms) pixel response time which also helps with motion sharpness. The Sharp D78UN series includes; the 52 inch LC-52D78UN, 46 inch LC-46D78UN and the 40 inch LC-40D78UT.

Sharp AQUOS D78UN Series 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV

The D78UN models have conventional (CCFL) fluorescent backlighting and while still delivering a good picture do not deliver the same contrast ratio as the Sharp models with the more advanced Sharp X-Gen LCD display and LED backlighting such as the Sharp LE810UN.

There is a good range of basic connection options including 3 HDMI for single cable connectivity for video and audio. There are also built-in ATSC/QAM/NTSC tuners. Missing are some of the higher end connectivity options such as an Ethernet connection for sourcing Internet based entertainment/content and DLNA capability for streaming over a home network.

The LC-46D78UN comes in a high gloss black cabinet with gold accents and twin 10W recessed bottom-mounted speakers for plenty of volume for most situations. A table stand is included however, the HDTV can be wall mounted.

Sharp specify that the D78UN series has a 176-degree viewing angle however, this should considered in light of our explanation of what viewing angle means. If a genuinely wide viewing angle with no color shift or brightness drop is essential then a plasma HDTV is the best choice.

The D78UN series is a good choice for a bright viewing situation due to its high brightness which is a strong point of LCD displays over plasma. To ensure that the brightness matches the ambient light level the D78UN models come with Sharp’s OPC (Optical Picture Control) system which automatically adjusts the TV’s brightness level. Brightness control contributes to energy efficiency and overall the D78UN models comply with ENERGY STAR Version 4.0 criteria confirming them as an energy efficient choice.