SHARP LC-30HV6U 30-Inch 16:9 HD-Ready LCD TV
Compared to Sharp LC-30HV4U
NOTE: At present (Oct. 2004) the LC-30HV6U LCD TV should cost under $2500.  Amazon was selling it for $2300 but now there seems to be a pricing error.  I have notified Amazon.<br /><br />Review:<br /><br />The Sharp Aquos LC-30HV6U 30\\" LCD TV is an outstanding LCD TV.  Like the other widescreen LCD TVs from Sharp, it represents the state-of-the-art in LCD television today.<br /><br />Compared to the more popular (and more affordable at $400 less) LC-30HV4U model -- who the heck was the genius that came up with these silly model designations? -- the present 30HV6U model sports better technology.  But for the most part, I feel the cheaper 30HV4U is a better bang for the buck, unless you absolutely want the best, in which case the extra $400 for this 30HV6U is well worth it.<br /><br />- Better contrast ratio.  30HV6U's is 700 vs. 4U's 500.<br />- Faster response time.  6U is about 16ms realized vs. 4U's 25ms.<br />- 1-bit digital audio amplifier, which is absent in the 4U model.  This technology recalls Kenwood's successful 1-bit DAC that revolutionized how CD music was processed a decade ago.<br />- Better speakers.  Regardless, you should get your own hi-fi.<br />- Speakers are placed beneath the LCD panel, vs. the 4U's side-placed speakers, which I find more stylish and convenient.  Both models' speakers can be detached.<br /><br />Both models are HDTV-ready (native 720p), have DVI, and can be used as a PC or Mac monitor.<br /><br />In short, the 6U model has a (slightly) better LCD panel.  I say \\"slightly\\" because in real-world performance terms, the 4U is already very outstanding.  If one had to rank LCD TVs on the market today, in each size segment, the 6U models are definitely #1, with the 4U coming in at a very close second.  (Of course, if you work for another LCD TV maker, you may disagree.  But me, Gadgester, is an everyday consumer and a relatively unbiased observer and follower of technology.)<br /><br />Hope this quick review helps you somewhat.  E-mail me with questions and I'll try to answer them.