Toshiba Adds LCD/DVD Combos

Expecting a 70 percent increase in the LCD/DVD combo market in 2009, Toshiba have unveiled an expanded line.

Jodi Sally, Toshiba digital A/V products group marketing VP, said Toshiba expects the U.S. TV/combo market reached about 5.5 million units in 2008, and is expected to reach 8 million in 2009, based on a combination of The NPD Group and Consumer Electronics Association sales estimates and forecasts.

For 2009, Toshiba will offer “one of the broadest combo lineups in the industry” with screen sizes ranging from 15 to 26 inches.

New models in this year’s assortment include revamped cosmetic styling with down-firing speakers and new bezel treatment.

Common features include DynaLight back-lighting technology that delivers a 1,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio, 720p HD resolution, dual HDMI inputs and a PC input.

The lineup starts out with the carryover 15-inch 15LV505 and 15LV506 (black and white) LCD/DVD combos that were introduced last fall.

In the 19-inch class, the company will introduce the black-colored 19LV610U (March, $349 suggested retail) and the white 19LV611U (April, $349). Both feature 16:9 aspect ratios, DynaLight backlighting, 1,000:1 contrast ratios, 720p resolution, two HDMI inputs and PC input.

In the 22-inch class, Toshiba will offer the black 22LV610U and white 22LV611U. Both are slated to ship in March at a $449 suggested retail each.

In the new 26-inch class, Toshiba will also offer the black 26LV610U, which will ship in March at a $549 suggested retail.

All models 19 inches and larger are VESA compatible for wall mounting and ship with a tabletop stand.

Meanwhile, Toshiba will carry new portable DVD offerings including the highly styled step-up SD-T93S (shipping in March at a $170 suggested retail).

The unit features a high-gloss pearl finish, 9-inch LCD full swivel screen that folds like a tablet, and an SD card slot that takes JPEG images to help the player double as a photo frame. It also includes a five-hour rechargeable lithium-ion battery and full DVD-format compatibility.