Top LCD TV Makers

Some of the best brands include Panasonic, Philips, Samsung, Sharp, and Sony, along with many computer-display manufacturers. The entry of computer makers like Dell and Gateway into the LCD TV market has accelerated price competition among TV makers, helping to drive prices down.
LCD TVs are available in standard-definition (analog), enhanced-definition (ED), and high-definition (HD) models. ED and HD sets are digital TVs. Analog TVs can display only standard-definition signals, like those used for most TV broadcasts. ED sets can also accept the higher-quality 480p signals like those from a progressive-scan DVD player. HD images are the sharpest and most detailed. These models can accept all signals from DVD players and HD signals from digital-video players/recorders.
Here are some of the top LCD TV manufacturers:

Sharp
Known for their AQUOS design, Sharp LCD televisions come in 16:9 widescreen and standard 4:3 aspect ratio. Their sizes range from 13" to 45". The AQUOS G-series televisions are available in rear projection, flat panel, and wireless. Depending whether or not you choose a table stand or not, model thickness will range between 4 to 14" thick. Many models come with a digital cable ready slot.

Sony
The makers of XBR product line with WEGA technology, Sony offers an assortment of LCD televisions. Rear projection models vary in size from 42 to 70" while flat panels come between 23 to 42". Their wireless or location-free models are 7 to 12", and their front projection system offers a viewing area up to 25'. All (except the portable models) are equipped to handle HDTV, and most come with digital cable card slots.

Samsung
Samsung offers LCD monitors in the flat panel variety with sizes ranging from 15-46", and come in widescreen or standard aspect ratio. Most come with multimedia PC/DVD/TV inputs. Their flat panels are very light; no model weighs over 100 pounds, but their thickness does vary depending on use of the stand. On their 46" model with stand the width is 16" and without the stand it's 6."

Panasonic
Panasonic offers an excellent variety of LCD products. Their flat panel models are between 14 to 32" and rear projection televisions range from 43" to 60". Most of their LCDs are HDTV ready and can attach to any home electronics device, including a PC. While their flat panels include a pedestal stand, their rear projection models don't come with a stand but will require a stand of some sort because they're similar in shape to a tube television – only lighter and narrower.

Hitachi
Hitachi also offers LCD TVs in front and rear projection formats. Their front projector is the 3 Panel 720P LCD light engine and exclusive Super Focus Quattro ELD. It can be used from up to 100' from a screen, but rear projection makes up the bulk of their LCD products. They have a vast catalog of rear projection LCDs ranging in size from 42 to 70. All of their projection televisions are equipped to handle high definition.

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