While everybody loves the space-saving designs of slim LCD screens, videophiles have always known LCD image quality just doesn't stand up to the pictures on traditional TVs based on cathode-ray tubes (CRTs). Featuring faster refresh rates and deeper blacks, those heavy, bulky tube sets remained the choice of those who didn't mind sacrificing some tabletop real estate for image quality. No longer! eCinema Systems have announced that they've developed a new LCD technology that surpasses CRT quality, as long as the LCD is fed a video signal using the new HDMI 1.3 spec, and it should be ready for consumers by late autumn. As we talked about Tuesday, the new HDMI 1.3 spec will allow for 48-bit colors, beyond the point of human distinction. It don't get any better than that, folks. The 40-inch DMC40HDR will be the first model released, followed by 57- and 82-inchers. Yes, 82(!) inches. Clear some wall space for that one. No pricing info is available, but it's safe to say you probably won't be able to afford them. — Adam Frucci

SyphaOnline, via Gizmodo