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SunBrite announces Signature line of outdoor LCD TVs, let you get your real housewives fix rain or shine
While watching TV from the comfort of your living room has its appeal, sometimes its nice to veg out by the pool, too. It's been awhile since we've heard from SunBrite, but the company is rolling out its new line of outdoor LCD TVs this year at CES. The televisions are built to withstand whatever mother nature can throw at them thanks to a high-impact resin exterior and dual cooling fans robust enough for the TVs to handle temperatures as low as 10 below or as high as 122 degrees. Called the Signature line, there are 55-inch, 46-inch, and 32-inch models that do 1080p and come with the standard array of connections: HDMI, component A/V, S-Video, composite video, and VGA. And to ensure that cabling's not a weak link when the weather turns bad, SunBrite's included a proprietary watertight cable pass-through system. The 46-inch model is already available for $2,995, and while the other two have yet to be priced or released, we'll find out how much they cost when they start shipping in the Spring.
Pantel expands line of waterproof Mirror TVs, lowers prices
Pantel has apparently decided that three waterproof Mirror TVs simply aren't enough, so it's expanding the family to four while lowering prices across the board. As of now, users looking for an outdoor HDTV that can withstand the elements can find a 20-, 26-, 32- and 42-inch solution from Pantel, all of which posses 1080p native resolutions, twin 10-watt speakers and optional touchscreen upgrades. As for pricing, they're running $1,999.99, $2,999.99, $3,499.99 and $4,499.99 from smallest to largest, which ain't half bad for a set that you can pour soda on while your favorite team gets pummeled.
Ask Engadget HD: What's the best outdoor HDTV?
Granted, it's not the most fitting time to ask this question in the majority of North America, but they always say the best sales are in the off-season. Have a look at Jonathon's request regarding outdoor sets:"We just put in a new deck and pool this summer, and now I'm looking for HDTV options for the outdoors. Ideally, I'd like a set that could withstand the rain and elements so I'm not stuck hauling it in and out each time we want to use it. Obviously, I'm trying to spend the least amount possible while still getting a good product, but I've had zero experience with those rugged, waterproof HDTVs. Anyone out there who could help?" We know a few of you have splurged on a set to sit by the pool, so let's hear it! Are you happy with your Runco / Pantel / etc.? Had any problems with it standing up to the elements? Chime in below.Got a burning question that you'd love to toss out for Engadget HD (or its readers) to take a look at? Tired of Google's blank stares when you ask for real-world experiences? Hit us up at ask at engadgethd dawt com and keep an eye on this space -- your inquiry could be next.
SunBriteTV reveals 3220HD / 4610HD all-weather outdoor LCD HDTVs
CEDIA 2008 is still over a month away, but the pre-expo news is already starting to trickle out. SunBriteTV, the firm responsible for last year's 46-inch 4600HD all-weather outdoor LCD, has just announced that it will be bringing two new ones to Denver this year, though there's no word on whether a dunk tank will also be in tow. The 32-inch 3220HD (1,366 x 768 resolution; 1,500:1 contrast ratio) and 46-inch 4610HD (19,20 x 1,080 resolution; 2,000:1 contrast ratio) both feature "corrosion-resistant, powder-coated aluminum exterior that protects the internal components from extreme weather and temperatures ranges," not to mention an interior heater to keep things toasty when it's snowing outside. The two sets are actually becoming available as we speak for $3,295 (3220HD) / $5,495 (4610HD), while a third unit -- the 23-inch HD-ready 2310HD -- can also be acquired now for "just" $1,995.
Anglers hooked on Outdoor Channel's HD fishing programming
For those who thought that fishing on TV was dead as soon as ESPN cut it out in large part from its NFL-slanted coverage, Outdoor Channel would like to politely inform you that you're wrong. Dead wrong. According to the numbers, ratings for the network's Friday night fishing block increased 77% over the first half of 2007. Needless to say, the bulk of programming found in this segment is shot and aired in high-def, and just to make sure onlookers stay hooked, the channel will be adding in The Catch: Costa Rica and Fly Fishing the World (both captured in high-definition) in Q3. Anyone here helping to boost those ratings? Don't be shy now.
Pantel's 20-, 52- and 65-inch weatherproof LCD HDTVs now shipping
Unlike Sanyo, Pantel has a pretty good idea of when outdoor displays will sell: summertime. That being the case, Pantel has jubilantly announced that its 20-, 52-, and 65-inch models are all shipping. Each display boasts a "weatherproof" enclosure that keeps the panel within safe from unpredictable weather. These units were designed to withstand water, extreme heat / cold, wind and dust, and judging by a few unofficial tests, they'll hold their own against sugary beverages as well. Grab yours now for $2,999, $9,999 or $25,999 (respectively) and make your way over to the deep end.
