Summary: Despite the weaknesses, this is still an awesome flat panel.
I was torn between getting one of the following three flat panels:
Panasonic TH-42PX5OU - 42" HD plasma
Sony Bravia KDL-V40XBR1 - 40" HD LCD display
Sharp Aquos LC-45GD7U - 45" HD LCD display
I compared all three extensively through reviews online, manufacturer website details, and actual store displays.
The Sharp Aquos beats the other two hands down as far as picture crispness, sharpness, and level of detail go. This is true for High Definition sources. The TV also just plain looks good. It has the best design out of the 3.
The Panasonic has a great picture and the blackness levels were darker than the Aquos, but judging by overall picture quality, I would have to say the Aquos is winner in my opinion.
I was also interested in the Sony Bravia 40", which had an OK picture, but was less sharp and muddy in comparison to the Aquos. Sharp definitely has their game together on this line of LCD flat panels.
A lot of online "e-tailers" have the LC-45GD7U for sale, but buyers beware!! I did a lot of digging before I decided on a specific vendor and a lot of the online store fronts have great prices, but seem very shady. I actually called a couple of the retailers to inquire if the item was actually in stock as the website indicated. It was not in stock and in one instance the sales guy was extremely rude with his response and hung up on me after he said it wasn't in stock.
Read the reviews of the retailers carefully, and you will see which are the ones who are pulling the shady tricks of "bait and switch" tactics, or trying to force expensive extended warranties, etc..
I ended up going with The Home Theater Store. They are one of the online retailers, but also have local stores in the Houston area. I actually purchased the Aquos online and then picked it up at their warehouse here in Houston. Although the price was a little more expensive than the other "low-ball" e-tailers, it was worth it.
I also had peace of mind knowing that they are a Sharp authorized retailer. Many of the places selling this TV online are NOT SHARP AUTHORIZED RETAILERS!!! This would put you at risk of Sharp not acknowledging your warranty. Also, if these other shady guys aren't authorized by Sharp to sell Sharp's products, then where are they getting the merchandise from (that never seems to be in stock.) Good question isn't it??
I know this is a long review, but hopefully it will save someone from going through much of the trouble I did researching these online retailers.
The Sharp Aquos LC-45GD7U is an amazing television, go ahead and buy it if you have been hesitating.
Also, The Home Theater Store is a great place to get it if you want peace of mind from an online retailer that is authorized to sell Sharp products. I'm in no way connected with them, just a happy customer.
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