Despite the expense, TV vendors seem hell bent on pushing the Blu-Ray format here in Las Vegas – and now Sharp has even built it into the TV itself.
Personally, we’re a little worried about all-in-one TV combos – anyone remember those dual VCR/TVs? Yeah, great in theory, but not so good when the drive packs it in.
Now Sharp is trying the combo angle again – this time with a Blu-Ray drive. The new BD80U Aquos series is apparently the world’s first HDTV with built-in Blu-Ray, as well as 120Hz for smoother motion, four HDMI, and . . . wait for it, 5 screen sizes from 32in to 52in.
What place Blu-Ray has on a 32in screen we’re not entirely sure, unless you’re one of those people who likes to sit with breathing distance of the screen.
But 1080p aside, the TVs themselves look relatively classy, though we’re not so sure Sharp’s piano gloss black plastic look will stand the test of time.
The other thing you’ll need to take into account is the size of the drive itself – look at our photos of the drive unit and you’ll see wall mounting or sitting your TV flush to the wall mightn’t be so elegant with this mini box at the back.
If you have a PlayStation 3, then you're already on the Blu-Ray train. If not, you might be wondering if it's worth the expense, though discs like Dark Knight might be the kick start the format needs.
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| With Blu-Ray goodness: Sharp's 32in BD Aquos |
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| The Sharp BD80U series in the flesh: not as classy as a Bravia to look at, we think |
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| My TV has a Blu-Ray drive - the back mounted drive on the Aquos |