Third Generation Blu-ray Players Offer BD Live and AQUOS Pure Mode
Sharp reaffirmed its strength in the Blu-ray market with the introduction of two new advanced AQUOS Blu-ray Disc (BD) players. The BD-HP22U and BD-HP16U provide Full HD 1080p digital output that when paired with an AQUOS LCD TV allow consumers to appreciate the superior quality of high-definition audio and video content. The BD-HP22U supports BD-ROM Profile 2.0, also known as BD-Live, which provides a multitude of interactive features through an Ethernet jack-enabled Internet connection. Users can download and stream bonus content such as additional scenes, shorts, trailers and multi-player interactive games, providing the consumer full access to content otherwise unattainable.
In addition to the BD-Live upgrade, the BD-HP22U and BD-HP16U incorporate several added features that help to improve the home theater experience, including advanced audio decoding, a high quality picture with AQUOS Pure Mode, and lower power consumption in both Power On mode and in Standby mode (19W power consumption).
| BD-HP22U |
Live gives consumers access to downloadable features for an interactive home theater experience,” said Bruce Tripido, associate vice president, Entertainment Products Division, Sharp Electronics Corporation. “Additionally, these new models raise the bar for image quality with features that display full high-definition content in its purest form.”
Superior Video Quality
With AQUOS Pure mode, the new Blu-ray Disc players connect to a Sharp AQUOS LCD TV with AQUOS Link function via an HDMI cable to deliver video content with unparalleled clear contrast and details. Sharp engineers designed this mode so that the BD player recognizes the connection to the AQUOS TV, in turn producing the best picture possible. When the BD player is connected the AQUOS* automatically switches to “dot by dot” mode allowing the consumer to view every pixel of 1080i and 1080p content with no overscan, proving a picture can be viewed in its true form with every detail displayed.
The BD-HP22U and BD-HP16U enable superior video quality with state-of-the-art HDMI 1.3 digital output with x.v. color, and 1920 x 1080 video at 24 frames per second output, matching the playback of the original film. This feature eliminates the need for frame-rate conversion that can cause motion artifacts on film-based material and degrade image quality.
Advanced Audio Decoding
The BD-HP22U and BD-HP16U feature a next-generation audio format with full decoding, providing an immersive home theater experience. The player outputs the most advanced lossless surround-sound formats including Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio via HDMI digital output. The player also decodes Dolby Digital Plus, which provides optimum surround sound for appropriately equipped receivers.
For added convenience, the BD players include Sharp’s proprietary Quick Start feature for quick disc loading. The BD-HP22U includes 2GB of USB memory. Both models feature a JPEG viewer, which allows users to view their favorite digital images from their CD collection on screen in a slide show format. For lower energy bills, both players feature low power consumption in both Power On mode and in Standby mode.
Featuring a new slim and compact design, the BD players feature a piano-black finish mirroring the elegance of an AQUOS LCD TV, as well as the blue media circle that illuminates to indicate the status of the player. Both models are compatible with a wide range of formats including BD-ROM/RE/R, DVD Video, DVD-RW/R, DVD+RW/R and audio CDs.
Pricing and Availability
- The BD-HP22U will be available in May for a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $299.99
- The BD-HP16U will be available in March for an MSRP of $279.99
