Sharp Aquos XS1 Hits 1,000,000:1 Contrast

Sharp's new flagship display boasts unbelievably high contrast ratios, fast refresh rates, and measures only 0.9 inches thick.

Pioneer may have claimed to have eliminated contrast ratios at this year’s CES with the unveiling of an “infinite contrast ratio” plasma set, but Sharp will attempt to give the company a run for its money with the recently unveiled XS1. Sharp’s new wonder display will boast a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, and unlike Pioneer’s conept-only plasma, will actually reach consumer living rooms soon.

Sharp managed to hit the mythical 1,000,000:1 mark using LED backlights, which should allow the set to match or exceed what the best CRTs are capable of. It should also run with CRTs in the refresh rate department, with a 100Hz (European-spec) panel instead of the typical 50Hz or 60Hz, delivering refresh rates of 6ms.

The XS1 will also come with a detachable speaker system, and a gallery mode option, which allows users to pop in a USB stick full of photos and watch them as a slideshow. Finally, and perhaps most impressive, the entire set will measure just 0.9 inches thick.

The XS1 will come in both 52- and 65-inch variants when it debuts worldwide in October.