We got a peek at it at the Consumer Electronics Show. Now it’s here—the 70-inch (well, 69.5 actually) LED-based LCD TV from Sharp is now available.

According to Sharp, this is, so far, the world’s biggest LED-based TV on the consumer market, boasting 62-percent more viewing area than a 55-inch TV and equivalent to nine 19-inch TVs tiled together. The LC-70LE732U carries an MSRP of $3,799. Three more models (including a 3D version) in the same size are coming later this year. 

The LC-70LE732U comes with all of Sharp’s most current innovations including Quattron technology which adds a yellow sub pixel to the standard red, blue and green makeup. It includes built-in Wi-Fi (no adapter required) for access to AQUOS Advantage Live (online, onscreen customer service), Netflix streaming, VUDU, CinemaNow, Facebook, Pandora, Twitter and Flickr.

Sharp says this model is based on a 10th generation panel with 6 million: 1 dynamic contrast ratio and a 120Hz refresh rate. The new panel was optimized for advanced pixel control to minimize light leakage and a wider aperture to let more light through, which means better contrast and brighter image.

For connectivity, the new model includes four HDMI inputs plus IP control which allows users to control basic TV functions via a PC or Internet-connected tablet or control panel.

While there are other big and bigger TVs on the market (two years ago Sharp launches a 108-inch CCFL LCD TV), one of the benefits of LED LCD is low power consumption. The new Sharp is ENERGY STAR qualified with a power consumption of 237 watts.

This summer Sharp will ship the 3D-enabled 70-inch LC-70LE735U. The price on that model hasn’t been released yet.

Grant Clauser - Technology and Web Editor, Electronic House

Grant Clauser has been covering home electronics for more than 10 years with editorial roles in several consumer and trade magazines. He's done ISF-level damage to hundreds of reviewed products and has had audio training from Home Acoustics Alliance and Sencore. He's also the author of the book The Trouble with Rivers. Follow him on Twitter @geclauser.