CITY OF INDUSTRY, CALIF. — Syntax Groups, an LCD-TV manufacturer based here which recently displayed its lines a RetailVision, introduced a 42W-inch fully integrated high-definition LCD-TV set priced to compete head-to-head with entry price HD plasma sets.
The Olevia LT42HVi will ship in June at a $3,699 suggested retail price. The high-definition set features built-in ATSC tuning to receive terrestrial digital broadcasts, a widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio, 1,366-by-768 picture resolution and 8 millisecond response time and HDMI with HDCP digital input.
In addition, the flat-panel set will offer black bezel design cosmetics.
At 42W-inches, the DTV set will compete head-to-head with the most popular HD plasma screen size, and will sell for only $300 more than a 42W-inch fully integrated HDTV plasma set from Maxent, which is among the lowest priced in the market. It will be priced to sell below the cost of many tier-one integrated high-definition plasma sets.
James Li, Syntax Groups CEO, called the model “the ideal crossover product for consumers who desire an affordable large-format digital TV that they can enjoy for an extended number of years without the negative attributes associated with plasma TVs.”
The company is stressing lower power consumption, longevity and resistance to image burn-in as key selling points of LCD over comparable plasma products, Li said.
The LT42HVi will include Syntax’s proprietary “iDEA”(Innovative Digitally Enhanced Architecture) digital video-processing technology, which offers a suite of built-in and user-selectable picture and sound adjustments, which the company said will offer sharp resolution and audio synchronization through a digital sound processor (DSP).
The integrated system-on-a-chip adjusts color, contrast, sharpness, motion and noise. In addition iDEA technology is said to enhance dynamic brightness, contrast, and edge reproduction, while extending black levels and limiting white peak.
The panel also includes Super IPS (in-plane switching) technology to improve image performance. The technology is said to deliver higher color saturation, wide viewing angles, sharp images, and fast (8 ms) response times, while reducing color shift and distortion from any angle.
Panel brightness is listed at 800 nits, while the contrast ratio was said to be 1,200:1. The viewing angle is listed as 178 degrees, horizontally and vertically.
In addition to ATSC tuning, the set will include dual NTSC tuners and a QAM tuner for in-the-clear digital cable broadcasts.
Other inputs include dual progressive component video inputs with 3:2 pull-down, user selectable audio equalizer preset modes and reverb effects.
Syntax said it is also offering purchasers a choice of speaker mounting positions. Audio is handled by 25-watts of stereo with enhanced surround sound delivered through detachable speakers. The speakers can be mounted horizontally at the base of the TV, vertically on each side, or completely removed.
A set will ship with a detachable stand featuring a new rounded footprint design.
Warranty coverage includes a free first-year on-site service plan.
