Scale the heights of HD
Toshiba announce a TV that does for, well, TV, that HDMI DVD players do for DVD output. It upscales the picture resolution. Given that standard digital TV signal MPEG2 encoding is actually quite poor, the prospect of upscaled live football might well fill you with Lego-shaped dread. But, here’s what Toshiba has to say anyway:
Toshiba Launches World’s First Upscaling TV
Toshiba today announces the launch of the new REGZA ZV series - the world’s first upscaling TV.
The REGZA ZV series debuts Toshiba’s innovative Resolution + technology, which uses a cell processor algorithm to provide greater image detail. By employing cutting-edge image-enhancing technologies, standard definition sources are scanned and up-converted to near HD quality, providing viewers with crisper images that are richer in detail. The results are truly impressive, with enhanced pictures that verge on high definition quality.
“While we’re making great progress in the development of image display technology, consumers are currently restricted by the lack of free-to-air HD content available,” said Andrew Line, UK TV Product Manager at Toshiba. “More than 99% of TV programmes are still broadcast and viewed in standard definition and the majority of home movie watching is through DVD, most of which is quite significantly compressed. With Resolution + technology, we’re able to offer consumers the ability to instantly upgrade whatever it is they might choose to watch - broadcast, standard DVD or otherwise - to near high definition quality. There is a marked improvement in the quality of the final image, and we’re very excited by the benefits this technology can offer.”
Using its integrated processing power, Toshiba’s Resolution + is able to improve pictures by increasing image definition and improving picture edges using correlation with adjacent images. A powerful processor is able to review adjacent areas of an image, determining waveforms of a similar nature and combine pixel information to enhance edge detail and improve the perceived depth and texture within the final picture - creating a sharper and altogether more defined image.
The new REGZA ZV series also features a strong set of specifications across the board. In addition to Resolution + technology, the new ZV models also include Toshiba’s Active Vision M100 HD 100Hz picture processing, which offers market-leading 5:5 pulldown sequencing. By inserting an intermediate image between frames, Active Vision M100HD processing doubles the overall image refresh rate, complementing the impressive image quality with advanced and super-smooth motion handling capabilities. The ZV range also feature full 1920×1080p HD panels, with full support for images shot at the native film rate of 24fps to eradicate any motion judder in pre-recorded movie playback.
The REGZA ZV series also includes 10-Bit colour processing to support the Resolution + technology. Mid colour tones are managed using Dynamic Gamma Curve Correction, which ensures a smooth transition between black and white without affecting the appearance of either when displayed in its purest form. Dynamic Contrast ratios of up to 30,000:1 help deliver bright whites and deep, dark blacks by controlling the actively controlling the LCD backlight, while a Wide Colour Gamut takes colour palette display capabilities up to an impressive 128% of colours being reproduced*.
Well balanced audio is provided by NICAM Stereo and SRS WOW technology, which is projected via a discreet speaker grille that runs below the LCD screen. All models also feature an integrated digital tuner, allowing instant access to free-to-air digital broadcasts.
The REGZA ZV series also offers a comprehensive set of connections, with 3xHDMI inputs offering the capacity to remain connected to HDMI DVD players, BD players, next generation games consoles and other high definition sources without having to switch cables. All three HDMI inputs are v1.3 compliant, providing compatibility with REGZA-Link Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) technology, which allows the potential to control all devices from one single remote control. In addition, Component Video, SCART and a PC Input are also included alongside S Video.
All models within Toshiba’s new REGZA ZV series include Toshiba’s Game Mode technology, which creates a direct channel for two-way communication between the TV and games consoles, preventing any potential time lag and improving response times. A full power down button also allows users to turn each TV off without relying solely on standby, increasing user flexibility and reducing overall energy consumption.
The REGZA ZV series comes in 42″ and 46″ models with a gloss black finish, illuminated Toshiba logo on the front and a boomerang swivel stand, giving it a sleek look to match the technology inside.
The ZV series will be available from the beginning of December at a RRP of £899.99 (42″) and £1199.99 (46″)