Samsung beat out all challengers in delivering four out of the five top-selling LCD TV models in 2007, according to retail sell-through data gathered by The NPD Group.
While Sony continued to mount a strong challenge with its popular Bravia LCD TV sets, posting the third highest selling LCD TV SKU — the 32-inch KDL-32S3000. Samsung delivered the industry’s most popular single SKU (the 40-inch LN-T4061F) as well as the second leading seller (the 32-inch LN-T3242H), the fourth leading seller (the 32-inch LN-T3253H) and the fifth leading seller (the 19-inch LN-T1953H).
This followed a 2006 performance in which Samsung produced the top-selling LCD TV in the 36-inch and larger screen size segments (the No. 4 selling LCD TV overall) and the top-selling 32-inch model (the No. 2 LCD TV overall).
Showing the shift in popularity of larger-screen LCD TV sets in 2007, eight out of the 10 top-selling LCD TV models had screen sizes measuring 32-inches or larger, up from seven the year before.
Sony accounted for five of the top-10 LCD TV models in 2007, followed by Samsung with four, and LG with one (the 20-inch 20LS7D), according to NPD.
The top-selling overall LCD TV for 2007, Samsung’s LN-T4061F, was a full HD 1080p model — a huge leap from 2006’s top-selling Magnavox 15-inch 15MF605T, according to NPD research.
The set was part of Samsung’s 61 model series of entry 1080p LCD TV sets.
The Samsung model included dual HDMI-CEC inputs, a 10,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 16-bit video processing, a wide-color enhancer, x.v.YCC expanded color capability and an 8ms response time.
The set also output enhanced audio using on-board SRS Trusurround XT technology emitted from two hidden bottom-mounted speakers. The 40-inch set offered an affordable option for big-screen 1080p performance. It could be found at a street price range from $899 to $1,599 over its life — it launched at a suggested retail of $2,299 — and was distinguished by Samsung’s gloss-black cosmetic styling with chrome accents and oval-shaped swivel stand.
Jonas Tanenbaum, Samsung LCD TV marketing VP, said the “4061 was really just the beneficiary of perfect storm model from last year — strong demand for flat-screen LCD, particularly 1080p, plus a solid feature set.”
Tanenbaum said the product also benefited from broad distribution (especially to NPD reporting accounts).
Top 10 LCD TVs
Unit volume share at retail
June 2007 – May 2008
