Pioneer to launch LCD HDTVs in North America next year

On the whole, we'd say KURO plasma owners are pretty stoked about their sets. Those who'd prefer a KURO-branded LCD, however, have been waiting anxiously to hear something more from ole Pioneer for months. Thankfully, the firm has finally spoken, and while it doesn't mention any brand / model names specifically, we can assume that those LCD HDTVs we saw emerge in Europe will be gracing US shores in mere months. During the first half of 2009, Pioneer LCD HDTVs will be loosed in North America and Asia, and unless plans change, the panels within will actually be supplied by Sharp. Might we be on the lookout for a sneak peek at CES '09?

[adrian @ Sep 17th 2008 6:06PM]

They better be good.

[frydelity @ Sep 17th 2008 7:23PM]

Save it Pioneer, you're too low end for me NuVision or Ronco all the way!

[Murray @ Sep 17th 2008 7:25PM]

Hopefully Sharp fixed the banding in their panels for Pioneer!

[Angrychinchilla @ Sep 17th 2008 7:30PM]

meh, I would be more excited if it wasn't sharp. (not a fan)

[daniel @ Sep 17th 2008 7:49PM]

i wonder if they will realse anything in the 52in plus crowd.

[TechReader @ Sep 17th 2008 8:42PM]

The 32 & 37 released in UK are 100hz, 1080p models and seem pricey too. Aren't most of the current gen LCDs in 120hz? I guess there wont be too much of an issue in terms of refresh rate.
Also, I hope they keep the prices competitive in US, or they might not get the nod of most consumers (just like they lost most of the plasma market).

[mnemonicj @ Sep 17th 2008 9:17PM]

100Hz is 2x the frequency of the power provided by the TV from the power outlet, 50Hz in Europe. In the US the power provided is at 60Hz, so the TV will operate at 120Hz.

[Bradh20 @ Sep 17th 2008 9:17PM]

One would hope Pioneer wouldn't use Sharp panels, as I had to return mine (46" Aquos) due to serious banding issues. Sharp wouldn't stand by the product. Thank God, Costco did. Sharp has some serious issues pertaining to quality control...

[David Susilo @ Sep 18th 2008 7:46AM]

banding is not a panel issue but a processor issue. Considering Pioneer will not be using Sharp's processor (reportedly they'll use their own) I have high hopes for these Pioneer LCDs.

[Deus_Ed @ Sep 18th 2008 5:12AM]

I am working at a large Electronics store in holland, and we haven't sold one of these yet within 2 months.
Seems like the only people that know Pioneer are the people who love plasma screens.

The screen quality of this LCD can be compared to Panasonics 32LZD85. Except the pioneer is glossy.

Anyway, its nothing special. Its not as beautifull as a Kuro plasma panel.

[Richy @ Sep 18th 2008 8:29AM]

Have this in my branch in London at the moment, the KRL32V, retailing for around £1299, it's spectacular! Highest priced 32" I've come across recently, but it's already selling well. The brushed aluminium is a welcome change from all of the gloss black ripoffs from poorer quality brands *cough* samsung *cough*