There used to be only Toshiba and its 68-series Regza when it comes to the promising 100Hz-scanning technology in Asia (more on the technicalities later). A lot more players have since jumped on the frame rate-doubling bandwagon and now we have others such as Sony and JVC in the foray. The latest onboard was long-time LCD advocate Sharp and its new LC-42A53M Aquos. But that's not all. The Japanese company is also bringing onboard Audyssey audio enhancement, probably another first in the flat-panel industry to beef up the nonchalant sound reproduction.

Pros

Sony calls it MotionFlow, JVC has it as Clear Motion Drive, and Sharp as Fine Motion Advanced. Tech jargon aside, these are all varying implementations of picture frame-doubling technology aimed at improving LCD TV motion reproduction. They work by inserting additional frames to minimize blurring. Some advanced variants including Sharp's solution incorporate image interpolation algorithms to produce unique intermittent frames. This, when coupled with an ultra-fast response rate, bridges the performance edge currently held by the plasma panels.

Another interesting feature which immediate caught our attention is its new Audyssey Spatial EQ-based surround sound. For the uninitiated, Audyssey MultiEQ solutions have been widely adopted in A/V receiver products and are renowned for their sound-enhancing room equalization. This software system should complement well with the LC-42A53M's power-efficient 20W digital amplifier and quad woofer speaker array. As an added bonus, you will have an optical audio output and the flexibility to channel noise resistance digitized sound to an external kit.

If you are a fan of the earlier PX5-series piano finish, you will not be disappointed with this new Aquos. Styling-wise, it is a near-clone of the former right down to the rounded pedestal stand. In fact, the only difference we could pick up flipping through the catalog was an all-out black glossy bezel from top to bottom. Factor in other touches such as a curvy angled bottom and unobtrusive speaker grille and we have here a classy piece that stacks up pretty well against the competition.

Cons

At a glance, the LC-42A53M does seem like a fine all-rounder. Having said that, nothing is perfect and there are still a couple of minor gripes to nitpick. For starters, it's about time Sharp played catch-up rather than being content with a slightly lower than usual 176-degree viewing angle. Ok, perhaps we are a little critical here, but you can't argue with us on the fixed pedestal stand. Provision for inbuilt swivel capability would definitely be handy for making impromptu fine-tuning for best view of onscreen pictures.

Bottomline

Priced at S$3,699 (US$2,433.18), it isn't exactly the most affordable midrange 42-incher around. But remember, you are paying a premium for 100Hz-scanning technology which may pay off for sports and action programs. We are not saying it will definitely help in practice and, sometimes, it all boils down to a matter of personal tolerance. Remember, ignorance can be a blessing at times, too.