The Sharp LC-52D62U is the largest member of the high-end AQUOS LC-D62U series of LCD HDTVs. With its 52-inch screen and 1,080p picture, the suggested price tag of $3,700 is quite reasonable. Like the 42-inch and 47-inch cousins in the line, the LC-52D62U is an elegant, attractively styled flat-panel TV. The glossy black finish and recessed speakers create a high-end appearance that should garner plenty of envious glances even when the unit is off. Once on, the native resolution of 1,920x1,080 shows every detail of 1,080i and 1,080p signals. Unfortunately, the LC-52D62U delivers a far less impressive picture when displaying standard-definition signals. You should avoid this unit if you intend to view a lot of SD content, but it's doubtful you'd purchase the LC-52D62U to watch standard TV.

The LC-52D62U's 2,000:1 native contrast ratio is an improvement over the 42-inch model, as is the 4-millisecond response time. This is comparable to CRT technology, ensuring less residual on-screen images even when viewing fast-moving sports, action movies or video games. Also unlike the LC-42D62U, there are no black-level issues with the LC-52D62U. The factory settings of most Sharp TVs are invariably oversaturated, but with the right adjustments, this set will display accurate colors and solid contrast.

The large-screen Sharp LCD HDTVs have received a number of complaints regarding visible vertical bands, especially during dark scenes. We experienced no such problems with the LC-52D62U, but if you decide to purchase this model, make sure to buy from a reputable retailer that offers a no-hassle return policy should the worst happen and you end up with a lemon.

Sharp's multipixel technology claims to improve both the horizontal and vertical viewing angles to 176 degrees. Practically, we still would't recommend placing your couch too far from the center of the LC-52D62U's screen, as there is a noticeable drop-off in brightness as you move away from a full-front viewing position.

Despite its large screen, the sleek design of the LC-52D62U maintains a compactness and relatively small footprint. The unit can be mounted on the included glossy black tabletop stand, or you can attach it to the wall with an optional bracket. The audio performance shows a marked improvement over the smaller units in the line, with the pair of stereo speakers delivering 15 watts of output per channel. The connectivity options are solid, with a pair of HDMI ports, one of which can be used with an adapter cable to connect a PC, as there is no dedicated PC input. Unfortunately, there is no CableCARD slot, so to view premium channels and interactive cable services, you'll need a cable box.

Despite its poor standard-definition performance, the large screen, excellent design and 1,080p resolution make the Sharp AQUOS LC-52D62U a good value.


Pros: Very stylish design; true 1,080p resolution; good HD performance
Cons: Poor SD performance; no dedicated PC port or CableCARD slot; no PIP features

Warranty
1 year, parts and labor