LC-42SB45U 42" 1080p 1920 x 1080 2000:1 LCD TV

Before I start, let me point out that this Sharp 1080p HDTV, LC-42SB45U, is *not* a model from their state-of-the-art Aquos line, which costs much more. I bought mine from Dell at a great price, and then realized this was not an Aquos. This is from what Sharp marketing geniuses call their "traditional LCD" line. (The Japanese are really great at marketing, aren't they?) This TV is made in China, underlining its value branding.

I struggled between giving this a 4-star vs. a 5-star rating. I'll explain. Picture quality-wise, it's excellent at 1080p -- I use it with my 60GB PS3 (which upconverts DVDs) -- with great contrast, smooth graphics and vibrant color (Sharp is best at color reproduction on LCD panels). The response time is 6 ms, and the viewing angle is an astonishing 176 degrees, both horizontally and vertidcally. (A flat surface has 180 degrees.) The maximum brightness is sufficient to allow you to use this set outdoors, on a patio, for example. (My old LCD TVs...Read more

I ordered this T.V. from Dell when they were holding a deal. HD content is great, but anything not using an HDMI cable is poor at best.

My biggest issue is the "cracking noise". In the operation manual under troubleshooting it says the following:
Problem: The TV sometimes makes a cracking sound.
Possible Solution: This is not a malfunction. This happens when the cabinet slightly expands and contracts according to change in temperature. This does not affect the TV's performance.

Funny thing about the clicking is that is far more then occasional. It also is only present when the sound is on. Your TV is mute? You will never hear it. I tried to explain to Sharp about this issue to see if this clicking sound was from the speakers or the case and they told me it was clearly the case. I told them I did a test where had the TV on mute for two hours and didn't hear a single click. Then, I unmuted the TV for a ten minute period and heard 4 clicks. I asked...Read more

I purchased this tv about a month and a half ago. Dell had this Tv for $799 free shipping. I was able to get my local P.C. Richard to price match it so I didn't have to wait to get it. I really enjoy this set. 3 HDMI ports, and a great picture. My ONLY problem with this tv, is that when switching Inputs the time it takes to show the picture, is a little slow. I can take anywhere up to about 6-7 seconds after selecting before the picture is displayed. I do not know if I have a fault set or so, but even with that I really cant complain too much. I too thought it was going to be an aquos, but did not see it printed on the side of the box, or on the tv. However, if your looking a really nice tv, for a pretty sweet price, this tv should be in the running for your decision.