Vizio Launches a Fleet of New HDTVs

Just in time for America's DTV transition, Vizio has launched a whopping 31 new HDTV models in its XVT, M, and E lines, ranging from 19 to 55 inches.

Low-cost HDTV maker Vizio isn’t bashful about its product introductions, and is apparently now taking a shotgun approach to the high-definition television market, announcing total of 31 new models that will be available to consumers starting from right now and running through September, 2009. The models are distributed across three lines—XVT, M, and E series—and are designed to appeal to a range of consumers tastes—and all 31 units are Energy Star 3.0-compliant.

“Vizio’s 2009 line of LCD HDTVs advances our mission to deliver the most advanced video and audio technologies to our customers with unequalled value and style,” says Vizio co-founded and marketing VP Laynie Newsome, in a statement. “Our customers have come to expect superior performance and design from Vizio, and this new line has unprecedented value in every screen size.”

The XVT series comes in at the high end, offering full 1080p resolution at sizes from 32- to 55-inches and refresh rates from 120 to 240 Hz. The high-end models feature TruLED and Smart Dimming backlighting technology for improved contrast of up to 2,000,000:1, along with USB inputs and SRS TruSurround audio technology. Suggested prices will range from $749 all the way up to $2,199.99.

The new M series wil feature models with Vizio’s “Java” color design that’s intended to resemble a burnished wood picture frame; some models will sport 120 Hz refresh, along with a “Pause Live TV” feature that will let users pause programming without needing a separate DVR or set-top box. Units will sport contrast ratios up to 50,000:1, and many will sport a side panel HDMI or camera input port for games and accessories. Sizes will range from 22 to 55 inches; prices will run from $349.99 to $1,799.99.

Finally, Vizio’s E series are designed to offer small and mid-sized TVs with reduced energy consumption: all will feature SRS Lab’s TruSurround technology, and some models will sport Vizio’s own EcoHD technology that pushes energy consumption as much as 20 percent below Energy Star 3.0 standards. Sizes will range from 19 to 42 inches, although only the 42-inch unit offers 1080p resolution: the rest are 720p. Suggested prices will range from $249.99 to $849.99.