Vizio VF551XVT [55-Inch HDTV For a Mere $1999]

The most striking feature of the Vizio VF551XVT is its pricing, so first up some information on it. When the 55-inch Vizio VF551XVT goes on sale in June 2009, it will retail for a mere $1999 which is a very low price of an LCD-based HDTV that also features LED backlights.  A 55-inch LED model from Sony, the KDL-55XBR8, costs $6500.

LED backlight technology enhances contrast and the 240 Hz LED panels used in the VF551XVToffer a 1,000,000:1 contrast. The technology makes use of “local dimming” technique to turn off or dim the backlight in dark areas and leave it on for the brighter portions. The result is high degree of clarity and sharp images. Not to mention that LED TVs are mercury-free and hence environment friendly.

Other features of the Vizio VF551XVT include an anti-glare screen, 5 HDMI inputs, improved viewing angles because of In-Plane switching technology, and a speaker bar integrated with the television for a more full-bodied sound from two 15W speakers.

Vizio claims that its Smooth Motion II technology eliminates motion blur that can occur with fast-moving action sequences.