Runco

The great news from Runco is the introduction of new, higher performance and larger size LCD models and plasmas and some very special technologies unique to Runco. There have also been some nice price reductions on selected models.

In the LCD category, Runco has introduced four new 1080p native resolution models, the 47-inch CX-47HD at $4495, the 65-inch CX-65HD at $14,995, the 70-inch CX-70DHD at $34,995, and the 47-inch CX-OPAL47 at $5995. In addition to using superb, crystal clear TFT displays, all models incorporate Runco VIVIX processing and all the other advanced scaling and video processing which separate Runco products from the rest of the market. They all produce spectacular high-definition images in the highest resolution available, 1920 x 1080 (1080p) and support a 120 Hz refresh rate. These models will take lower resolution outputs from any video source and scale them all the way up to a full, 1080p image. Remember that all video scaling and upsampling is not created equal. While cheap versions are often available in many home theater receivers as well as in many Blu-ray and DVD players, the resulting picture quality doesn't come close to what you get from Runco processing. The CX-70DHD, as in plasma DHD models (see below), is the first LCD to use an external video processing box for the best possible picture and most convenient connections.

The extra-special and uniquely new technology is the Runco-developed Optical Path ALignment or OPAL system being introduced first in the CX-47OPAL. OPAL is a proprietary Runco technology that preserves the integrity of video content on flat panels in high ambient light environments. Only Runco offers this superior engineering for a truly stellar viewing experience. OPAL has three major components. These are:

• Acute Contrast Enhancement (ACE) technology that increases contrast without losing image clarity within dark scenes, especially in high ambient light. ACE enhances contrast more than 3 times over other flat panels.
• Ambient-Light Rejection (ALR) is a proprietary treatment applied within the panel to reduce internal and surface reflections. It enhances image focus and clarity in medium to high ambient light environments. Without ALR the result would be washed out contrast, color, and overall picture quality.
• Impact, Shock, Shake (ISS) is an additional panel enhancement that provides added resistance to dust contamination, condensation, or the occasional blow from any source such as a hand-held game control. The benefit here is that your expensive TV will survive occasional abuse and degradation from environmental contaminants.

Runco OPAL also makes the panel less sensitive to daily wear and tear. Finally, unlike other flat panels, the surface can be cleaned with typical household glass cleaner.

• Reduced internal reflections and improved picture sharpness
• Reduced surface reflections back to the audience from ambient light
• Increased black levels and contrast
• Widest viewing angle possible in flat panel technology
• Highest level of accurate color reproduction in flat panel technology
• Reduced off-axis color shift
• Reduced background "glow" during black scenes

As we've previously discussed (see our last newsletter), the DHD scales any lower resolution video material to the 1080p native resolution of the display and provides convenient source component connections in the equipment rack rather than at the plasma monitor. Additionally, the DHD controller allows advanced image quality adjustments, resulting in the most accurately calibrated image a plasma display can have. The DHD controller makes simplified installation possible with all inputs going to the rack mountable DHD controller and only one video and one control connection between the controller and the display. In addition to performing all scaling and video processing functions, the DHD controller with HDMI inputs provides a pure digital signal path from input to output as well as a broad array of video input choices, all available from its position in the equipment rack. This is the best level of Runco image processing. It results in pristine images with deep black levels and artifact-free pictures. All of the XP models take picture quality to a whole new level boasting the brightest picture, best contrast ratio, deepest black levels, and most spot-on high definition color ever! These have got to be the world's reference quality plasma displays!