Sharp Introduces Affordable TiVo-Powered TVs to the Market
In celebration of its 25th birthday, popular media platform TiVo has launched a new TV operating system that aims to compete with other major players in the market such as Roku TV, Fire TV, and Android/Google TV. Initially available on new entry-level TVs from Panasonic and Bush, TiVo OS is now expanding its reach with the announcement that two new 4K TV ranges from Sharp will also feature the innovative operating system.
The two new ‘powered by TiVo’ Sharp TV ranges, the GM6000 series, and the GK4000 series, are set to bring TiVo OS’s intuitive interface and decades of ‘content-first’ experience to households across the UK and Europe. Additionally, the GM6000 series will feature support for TiVo’s advanced voice recognition system, providing users with a seamless and interactive viewing experience.
GM Series: Premium Features at Affordable Prices
The GM series from Sharp offers a more premium viewing experience with three screen sizes available: 43, 50, and 55 inches. Despite being the higher-end range of Sharp’s new TiVo lineup, these models are priced competitively in the UK at just £299, £389, and £449 respectively. The GM models utilize Quantum Dots technology to enhance color reproduction, aiming to deliver brighter images and a wider, more accurate color gamut compared to traditional RGB filter systems.
Sharp claims that the GM models offer superior black levels and audio performance thanks to a premium integrated two-way sound system developed in collaboration with renowned audio brand Harman Kardon. This sound system is capable of playing Dolby Atmos soundtracks, providing users with a truly immersive audio experience.
In terms of design, the GM6000 series features ‘frameless’ designs with ultra-thin screen surrounds, giving them a sleek and modern look. The TVs also come equipped with three HDMI 2.1 ports, with support for enhanced Audio Return Channel to pass sound, including lossless Dolby Atmos tracks, to external sound systems. While the panels support HDR content, including Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG formats, they are limited to 60Hz refresh rates for gaming and do not support variable refresh rates.
GK Series: Budget-Friendly Options with Essential Features
The GK series from Sharp offers budget-friendly options for those looking to experience TiVo OS on a smaller budget. Available in 43, 50, 55, and an impressive 70-inch screen size, these models are priced at £279, £349, £389, and £649 respectively. Despite their lower price point, the GK4000 series maintains support for Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos audio, as well as running the same TiVo OS interface as the GM6000 series.
However, the GK models do not feature Quantum Dots technology for color reproduction and do not have the premium integrated sound system designed in collaboration with Harman Kardon. While they lack voice control support, the GK4000 series still provides a solid viewing experience at an affordable price point.
Comparing the GM and GK Series
On paper, the GM6000 series appears to offer better value with its QLED panels, Harman Kardon speakers, and voice control support. The performance enhancements and smart features provided by the GM models make them an attractive option for users looking for a more immersive viewing experience. However, the GK4000 series may still appeal to those on a tighter budget or looking for a secondary TV set.
Overall, Sharp’s new TiVo-powered TVs offer consumers a range of options to experience the advanced features and intuitive interface of TiVo OS at competitive prices. Whether you opt for the premium GM series with its high-end features or the budget-friendly GK series for essential viewing needs, Sharp’s new lineup aims to provide a quality viewing experience for households across the UK and Europe.