Sharp LC-37X20E Review

 

The Sharp LC-37X20E

One of the sharper Sharp LCDs of recent vintage, the LC-37X20E is a nice compromise in size and functionality, as it offers much more than movie viewing. It’s one of the few TVs that is being marketed as a gaming monitor- and rightly so, as it offers features that gaming enthusiasts would not find anywhere else.

Design

A relatively slim bezel characterise this LCD, with the 32-inch set taking up almost the same space as a 26-inch TVs with thick frames. Unassuming design involving glossy black finish, straight lines, well-concealed speakers and non-swivelling stand make the LC-37X20E look great in modern home interiors.

The remote control shipped with the TV is standard-issue Sharp clicker, which is easy to use along with the intuitive and user-friendly menu system, though there is a noticeable response lag particularly when changing input sources via the remote. The dedicated Game picture preset makes shifting to gaming mode and making user settings quite a breeze.

Screen/picture clarity

As the LC-37X20E is geared for gaming than anything else, it surely outperforms other LCDs in its class in terms of gaming picture quality. The full 1080p HD resolution is put to good use, as every pixel is rendered accurately onscreen and blending of colours are as precise as precise can get. Impressive black levels and well-saturated colours make images on display wonderfully clear and vivid and skin tones appear quite natural, even if shadow details aren’t that impressive. And even without 100hz. refresh rates, the LC-37X20E manages to produce relatively blur-free motions in its Game mode by reducing response time.

And it’s not only in the gaming department that this HDTV excels. HD materials as well as standard-def sources are handled quite well, with the black levels and colour accuracy constantly well-rendered no matter what the source is. There is just a slight bleeding noted when one gets close to the screen when viewing deinterlaced materials, but this is hardly an issue when 1080p Blu-ray disc is played.

Features

The LC-37X20E may look pricey considering its size, but there are enough features packed in the set to justify the hefty tag. TruSurround SRS for an immersive audio reproduction, built-in digital tuner that provides Freeview TV, videotext capability, and generous adjustment options make this LCD really stand out. And even if there is no picture-in-picture capability, the connectivity options are quite generous: three v1.3 compliant HDMI slots, D-Sub PC port, USB port, 21-pin Scart terminal, headphone jack and a multitude of composite input/output jacks for all uses. 
Sharp did well in focusing the marketing of this HDTV for gamers, as there is certainly a dearth in that niche. But since the impressive performance and not-too-hard-on-the-wallet price of the LC-37X20E aren’t hype at all, this set may just capture the attention and support of hardcore gamers.

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