For those who crave big screens but don’t exactly have big budgets to match, Syntax-Brillian’s Olevia brand has long represented a less expensive route into the market for flat-screen HDTVs. Its three newest models, The Olevia 265TFHD. Olevia 252TFHD and Olevia 247TFHD live up to that reputation by offering the same features as – and in some case the same parts as – brand name sets, but significantly lower prices.
The 65-inch and 47-inch models both offer thin, updated bezels, built-in Clear QAM HD tuners and firmware that can be upgraded through a USB connection. Each set gets two HDMI connectors, two component, two S-video, two composite and one VGA input, plus RS232 control for control through a network or home automation. The 65-inch model uses a Sharp LCD panel, putting it in the same league as Sharp’s own AQUOS LCD sets. Details on the new 52-inch set were not included in Olevia’s announcement.
Olevia’s expanding U.S. retail presence will allow potential buyers to check out the 65-inch TVs at Costco and soon Target, with an MSRP of $6,999. The 47-inch model can be found at Target, BJ’s, and Circuit City will add it to shelves in November, with an MSRP of $1,999.
