CES 2009

LED backlighting, Internet-content connectivity, and 240Hz seem to be the watchwords in this year's new HD flat panel sets, if what we've seen so far today, from LG and Toshiba, are representative. Toshiba introduced a whole range of new sets, some non-Regza, some Regza. (Regza, for newbees, is Toshiba's moniker for its premier designs). Some of the upper end models also use a new 14-bit "5G" Resolution + processor said to be capable of making SD sources "feel like" HD. We'll let you know when we see it.

The top of the line Regza ZV series (April, prices TBD) is loaded with features. These include speakers imbedded in the frame (Toshiba calls this frame its new "Deep Lagoon" design), Dolby Volume, Audyssey audio processing, and a USB input for all the usual photo/music applications.

More important are the video features. Toshiba's ClearScan 240Hz processing employs 120 frame rate conversion together with backlight scanning to produce a 240Hz "effect" (according to Toshiba, all of the new 240Hz features operate this way, rather than go to a full 240Hz frame rate.

There's also AutoView, which adjusts all picture parameters automatically depending on room conditions, and an automated color temperature, which does the same. Both of these features can be switched off.

Add in LED backlighting with local dimming and the ZV series is one we're anxious to have a look at.

In the second half of 2009, Toshiba will introduce a REGZA model that will have Internet connectivity, along with a combo (TV and DVD) model with similar features. Plans also call for a stand-alone network player.