Sharp Aquos LC-37D43U

Summary: After the LC37D90U model was discontinued, I was concerned that the newer models I could afford, the ones that are not 1080p, would not measure up in terms of picture quality and inputs. I was delightfully dissappointed. I got to see the smaller 32-inch model perform beautifully in a store and then at a local bar. I found the 37-inch model in another store and took the plunge. I could not be happier with my decision (save for the fact that it's not 1080p). At this screen size, however, and the distance from which I will watch the tv, it doesn't make that much of a difference. Standard definition looks normal but high def programming looks unbelievable in terms of detail and clarity. Sometimes it's too detailed and older programming that has been re-formatted to high def has a little too much noise. A previous complaint was that switching from high def to standard or vice-versa took 6 seconds or longer because of picture resizing. I can now confirm that this is an issue with the cable or satellite providers. I have a DVR/high def converter made by motorola connected via component video and the switch from high def to standard or vice versa takes at most 2 to 3 seconds, and usually only 2. I have an Oppo 981 upconverting DVD player and my DVD's look amazing and almost as good, although not quite as good, as high definition. The picture is highly customizable in terms of color temperature, black levels, contrast, etc., and you can save different settings for sports, movies, etc. The Smart Strech does a decent job but I prefer watching in pillar box format. My other main concern was black levels but the 37D43U does a great job and you can see clear details even in very dark scenes (try this with dark movies like Batman Begins to get a good callibration). The glossy look, although it looks amazing, does attract dust that can stand out but it's a minor concern and a weekly wipe does the trick. I haven't tried the 15-pin computer connection but I can't wait to try it. I'm very, very satisfied.