Sharp Aquos LC40LE700E 40in LED-backlit TV

Other aspects of the LC40LE700E also display a nice attention to detail. The remote control lets you cycle through different audio presets and aspect ratios without having to delve into the rather extensive on-screen menus, and there’s a handy ‘Flashback’ button that will immediately switch you back to the most recently selected channel or external video source.

Fast action scenes could appear better, but easy on the eye for most content

You can also display the electronic programme guide in a number of different ways, cramming either three or six hours’ worth of information onto the screen or switching between horizontal and vertical layouts. There’s even a built-in timer that you can use to see how long the kids have been playing computer games.

We were a little disappointed with the audio performance, though. The 20W output is quite loud, but the bass wasn’t terribly strong even with the bass-enhancer option turned on, and the sound tended to lack depth. Given the abundance of low cost home cinema sound systems, the built-in audio may well never be used by many considering this set.

Verdict

The lingering motion blur is a weakness, so sports fans and members of the Jason Statham fan-club might prefer an alternative that copes a little better with high-speed action. However, the bright and vivid imagery, and the crisp contrast of the LC40LE700E are very pleasing to the eye, especially when bringing out the detail in high-definition content. It’s not quite a knockout blow for Sharp’s rivals, but it certainly puts Sharp back in the game once more. ®

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