Sharp LL-T1520H

An excellent screen if you're prepared to spend for performance.

Sharp Electronics has expanded its LCD monitor range with the LL-T1520H, a 15in product designed as a desktop display for PCs.

It brings a number of features common to Sharp's large-format higher-end displays down to a more affordable point and is an excellent product if you don't need a larger screen size.

Like most 15in. displays, the LL-T1520H's panel uses a 0.297 pixel pitch to provide a native resolution of 1,024 by 768 pixels.

This is set in a narrow bezel, making it suitable for use in a multi-display set-up, and uses Sharp's own Black TFT design, which minimises reflection and glare from ambient lighting.

It's also an Advanced Super-V panel that uses an in-plane switching technique to provide wide viewing angles of 170 degrees in both axes, as well as an impressive brightness level of 250cd/m2.

Contrast ratio is also high at 400:1 and the LL-1520H reproduces grey and colour scales very well, with no real loss of shallow tones at either end. It also provides an impressive pixel response time of 25ms, which is suitable for video playback.

The integrated speakers help to reduce desktop clutter (a headphone jack is also provided) and a cable run helps keep the signal and power cables out of the way.

The LL-1520H offers both DVI-I and VGA ports, and has a signal select button for swapping between sources. Automatic signal calibration is very effective, requiring no manual adjustment, and you can also set the display's contrast and brightness with the LL-1520H's automatic gain control.

Although the stand offers no height adjustment, it raises the panel higher than many 15in LCDs and 75mm VESA arm mounts are also supported. The only real criticism of this product is its price, but the LL-T1520H is a strong proposition.

Price: £441.70 (ex. VAT)

Specifications:

• Native resolution: 1,024x768
• Viewing angles (H/V): 170/170
• Brightness: 250cd/sq m
• Contrast ratio: 400:1
• Response time: 25ms
• I/O: VGA DVI-I, audio-in, headphone

Contact: Sharp Electronics (01932) 434 647
www.sharp.co.uk