The D65 Series is one of the more value-oriented lines in Sharp's current 1080p repertoire, so it doesn't offer higher-end features like Fine Motion Enhanced 120Hz technology, AQUOS Net Web connectivity, an integrated Blu-ray player, a super-slim profile, or wireless HD transmission. The line includes screen sizes of 52, 46, and 42 inches. We have not performed a hands-on review of the LC-46D65U, but here is an overview of the TV's features. This 46-inch, 1080p LCD uses a traditional fluorescent backlight (as opposed to the LED backlighting found in the top-shelf Limited Edition Series) and Sharp's 8-bit Advanced Super View (ASV) Black TFT panel with the Spectral Contrast Engine UD (Ultra Dark). Some higher-end models use the newer 10-bit ASV Superlucent panel with the Spectral Contrast Engine XD (Extreme Dark). The LC-46D65U has a 6-millisecond response time, compared with 4ms in the step-up models.
Additional Resources
• Read more LED HDTV reviews from HomeTheaterReview.com.
• Find a Blu-ray player that will get the most out of the AQUOS LC-46D65U.
This TV does share the same generous input panel found on the more expensive models, including five HDMI 1.3, two component video, and one PC input, plus an RF input to access the internal ATSC, NTSC, and Clear-QAM tuners. The HDMI inputs accept both 1080p/60 and 1080p/24 signals, and one is side-facing for easy access. The component video inputs also accept 1080p/60. The TV lacks picture-in-picture functionality, and it does not include an SD card slot or Ethernet port for media playback/streaming. One side-panel USB port is offered, but it's for firmware updates only, not media playback. Surprisingly, you do get an RS-232 port to integrate the TV into an advanced control system, which is rare at this price point.
For a lower-priced TV, the LC-46D65U has a solid number of image adjustments, including: seven preset AV Modes; an adjustable backlight and an OPC function that automatically adjusts the picture's brightness based on your room's lighting conditions; five preset color-temperature options plus RGB gain controls (no offset controls) to fine-tune white balance; advanced color management that lets you adjust the hue and saturation of the six color points; and digital noise reduction. The LC-46D65U has four aspect-ratio options for SD content and five options for HD, including a Dot by Dot mode for viewing 1080i/1080p images with no overscan. Finally, the TV has a Power Saving Mode that enables active contrast and active backlight to reduce the TV's energy consumption while in use.
The LC-46D65U has a gloss-black cabinet with recessed, bottom-mounted speakers and a square, removable base. The limited audio-setup menu includes bass, treble, and balance controls, plus a generic surround mode and bass enhancer. There is an option to turn off the screen and just listen to audio, a nice feature for those people who like to listen to the digital music stations offered by their cable or satellite provider.
High Points
• This TV has a 1080p resolution and will accept 24p sources via its generous five HDMI inputs. The two component video inputs also accept 1080p/60.
• LCDs can be very bright, which makes them a good choice for a brightly lit viewing environment.
• The LC-46D65U has a nice selection of picture adjustments.
• An RS-232 port is included.
Low Points
• The LC-46D65U does not include 120Hz technology to reduce motion blur and film judder.
• The TV doesn't have a USB port or SD card slot that supports digital media playback, nor does it include Sharp's AQUOS Net Web platform.
• This LCD uses a traditional fluorescent backlight, so its black level is not as good as that of a higher-end LED-based LCD.
• LCD viewing angles are only average.
Conclusion
The LC-46D65U isn't loaded with features, but it's a solid LCD, with a nice assortment of picture adjustments and HD-capable inputs, and it represents a good value in the 1080p HDTV marketplace. The five HDMI inputs make it an especially good choice for someone who owns a lot of HDMI-equipped sources.
