For the first half of 2009, this is the second time around in which we braved the pouring rain just to be present at a product launch of LG Philippines. Don’t consider this as a complaint, but a compliment, bearing in mind that rain has always been considered as a good portent of prosperity since the olden times. As a matter of fact, this is an actuality for LG who now ranks as the world’s third largest mobile phone manufacturer. Another important fact which is very much related with our story today, LG is also the second largest producer of television sets worldwide.

Following on the success of the LG70, the original Scarlet, LG Philippines organized the launch of the LH70, the new Scarlet model, last week.

Sharing similarities with the previous offering, the LH70 espouses a sleek, slim profile complemented with scarlet-colored backside and edges.

Nonetheless, one of the most visible differences between the two models is the power button. While the LG70 takes up the “beating heart” power button design, the LH70’s power button shows a red glow that takes a 360-degree run around its rim with just the slight touch of a finger.

 Demonstrating their leadership in television technology and design, LG has made the LH70 slimmer when compared to its older relative. While the LG60 set a record in realizing a slim silhouette at 44.7mm (2.4inches), the new Scarlet beats it at 39.7mm (1.56 inch). This achievement is fulfilled by relocating the tuner, speaker and analog components to the bottom of the television.

Interestingly, even with the use of CCFLs (cold cathode fluorescent lamps) as its backlight, the LH70 consumes less energy, allowing you to save more electricity and lessen environmental impact at the same time. The LH70 incorporates LG’s Smart Energy Saving Plus technology that precisely adjusts the backlight according to ambient illumination by using an Intelligent Sensor. With this innovation, power use can be trimmed down by up to 75 percent when compared with other similarly-sized TVs, while reducing eyestrain during extended viewing as well. In the video, LG demonstrates how energy efficient the new LH70 LCD TV is.

For connectivity, the LH70 incorporates USB 2.0, HDMI 1.3 and Bluetooth. With Bluetooth, the LH70 can connect directly to a mobile phone, allowing you to view stored photos and videos.

  Commenting on the LH70, LG Philippines Managing Director Mr. Seung Chul Lee said, “We designed the LH70 to be subtle, yet beautiful and to fit into any space, breathing with it, not working against it. From its sleek lines and refined curves to its incredible picture quality, the new Scarlet LH70 is a work of art that anyone would be proud to display.” More information about Mr. Lee’s speech is found on the video feed above.

In an allegorical context, LG equates the LH70 to a sophisticated woman in an elegant scarlet silk dress, which fully explains the presence of these gorgeous ladies in red during the affair.

Comprehending how home entertainment is a crucial aspect of the Filipino lifestyle, LG ensured that the event reflected a “feel-at-home” atmosphere. They set up three nooks, each showcasing the LH70 in a particular home scenario.

At the first corner, we witnessed how the LH70 could be an ideal companion for Nintendo Wii fanatics.

Proceeding to the next nook, we spent some time playing around with the LH70 and a Microsoft Xbox console.

Of course, since Filipinos are fond of belting out notes, they had a spot where an LH70 and a karaoke set were just waiting for the next singing sensation.

Who says that we at HardwareZone do not know how to party? Given this good opportunity, we show you how with one of the ladies in red.

Before leaving the ballroom, we also took the rare opportunity of having a light talk with the local executives of LG and their PR partner, Greenbulb. Straight from the horse’s mouth, we learned that they’re already cooking up for another product launch that will transpire on the second half of the year. What or when, we still do not know; nevertheless, let it remain as a top secret for now.

Meanwhile, at the time of writing, our friends from LG Philippines sent us the 42-inch model of the LH70. For this reason, we ask you to stay tuned for our comprehensive take on the new Scarlet, only here on HardwareZone and in the coming issue of HWM Philippines!

(Photos by Waldo Zuñiga / Videos by Lionell Go Macahilig)