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Mitsubishi's Ultra Thin Frame Premium Flat Panel TV with Integrated Sound Projector claims to reproduce 5.1 surround sound audio with 16 speaker below the screen.

Anyone who's set up a home theater with surround sound knows what a pain setup and calibration can be. First of all, the idea of surround sound is great until you try to get speakers set up around your bookshelves, umbrella stands, pet beds, end tables, lamps, and (let's not forget) furniture. Once the speakers are set in no-doubt less-than-ideal spots, you get to spend hours calibrating your audio. Just when it sounds great, you move your head six inches to the left and all the dialog gets muddy. Great.

Mitsubishi aims to simplify the surround sound problem by integrating a simulated 5.1 surround sound experience right into their flat panel televisions. Their Ultra Thin Frame Premium Flat Panel TV with Integrated Sound Projector (PDF) claims to offer a true 5.1 surround sound experience using 16 small speakers in an array right beneath the LCD TV. An "advanced algorithm" delays the output from each of the speakers to varying degrees to create a "distinct" 5.1 sound field.

"Mitsubishi's new Premium Flat Panel TV with iSP creates a new immersive audio experience with innovative sound technology that exceeds what is currently being offered on the market," said Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America VP Frank DeMartin, in a statement. "The new Premium Flat Panel TV with iSP is ideal for consumers who have been craving a complete home theater TV solution without the complicated set-up and operation."

The sets will be available in 46-inch and 52-inch sizes, and offer a 120 Hz refresh rate, 1080p native resolution, HDMI input, and are CableCard-ready. The units should be available this month with the the 46-inch LT461149 going for a suggested price of $3,299, and the 52-inch LT53149 carrying a suggested price of $3,699.