Hitachi 2006 Big Screen Projection Line Features Dramatically Designed Models and Best-in-Class Performance; New LCD and CRT Projection TVs Deliver Exceptional Image Quality and Sophisticated Design.

LAS VEGAS -- The Home Electronics Division of Hitachi America, Ltd., a subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd. (NYSE:HIT), www.hitachi.us/tv, today unveiled six new additions to its projection TV product line up, including three UltraVision(R) LCD rear-projection HDTV models -- the 50-inch 50VS69, 55-inch 55VS69, and the 62-inch 62VS69 -- and three new CRT rear-projection DTV models with 1080i display capability -- the 51F59, 57F59 and 65F59 in 51-, 57- and 65-inch screen sizes, respectively.

"Hitachi's engineering expertise takes the home theater experience to a new level with our sleekest designs yet," said Leo Delaney, vice president of marketing, Hitachi America, Ltd., Home Electronics Division. "Our latest models combine cutting-edge technology that delivers a vivid and accurate large-screen picture with an ultra compact, contemporary design that fits a wider range of viewing environments."

UltraVision(R) LCD Projection HDTV VS69 Series

The 50-, 55- and 62-inch models offer exclusive features and technologies, resulting in a brighter picture with precise focus in less space. These models offer industrial designs that feature minimal bottom speakers to create an ultra-sleek form factor as well as a silver and black finish for a striking modern look.

The VS69 models' blend of unparalleled performance and design is made possible with a 3-Panel 720p LCD Light Engine with an 11-Element Lens System. This proprietary technology sets new standards in modern optical engineering to produce a bright, sharp picture in a compact design. Improvements along the light path include special filters and polarizers that ensure brighter whites and darker blacks. Since accurate image magnification is the key to a perfect picture, the Lens System uses advanced optics to deliver unmatched magnification accuracy over the entire screen for a superior film-like picture.

A proprietary Hitachi VirtualHD(TM) 1080p video processor properly de-interlaces 1080i programs to provide as much detail as possible for a clear, sharp image. Hitachi's dynamic histogram processing delivers improved contrast, color and sharpness while reducing noise to a minimum. Each video frame is processed as a digital still image in real time with an astounding 68-billion color capability to produce the best final on-screen image. The models include a Quick Start Seamless HDTV and NTSC Tuner to deliver the picture with seamless access to all available channels and CableCARD(TM) compatibility that provides a simplified "one remote control" operation for cable programming on participating systems. A separate Day and Night Memory for each input ensures the optimum picture quality during the daytime or nighttime for each source. Simply press the Day/Night button on the remote or use the automatic timer to switch between bright daytime settings and high-fidelity nighttime settings.

Rounding out the features is an anti-reflective diffusion screen, multiple color temperatures, black enhancement, a 24-watt, 3-way221 speaker system and an HDMI(TM) audio/video input and two wideband component inputs.

The 55VS69 and 62VS69 will be available in April at suggested retail prices of $2,999.95 and $2,599.95, respectively. The 50VS69 will be available in July at a suggested retail price of $2,299.95.

CRT Rear-Projection DTV F59 Series

The new F59 CRT rear-projection televisions in 51-, 57- and 65-inch screen sizes showcase Hitachi's advanced optics to produce a superior picture in a thin and sleek modern cabinet. The innovative design of the High Brightness CRT delivers optimum performance for conventional and digital broadcasts. The exceptional brightness and focus is the result of a high-precision phosphor formulation and patented liquid coupling design.

These models feature a video processor that converts all signals to match the set's 1080i display resolution, recreating the smooth curves and high fidelity image of the original source while reducing noise to a minimum. A High-Brightness Lens System magnifies the image for precise focus and detail in widescreen home-theater proportions.

The F59 units also deliver a rich package of features, including an exclusive Day and Night Memory by Input with Timer, DTV and NTSC Tuner, as well as a patented Magic Focus(R) Auto Convergence System. Other features include an HDMI Digital Video/Audio Input for the highest quality digital input, a High-Contrast 0.52mm Fine Pitch Screen, and six Aspect Mode choices for watching traditional 4:3 programs on the new 16:9 widescreen televisions.

The 51F59 will be available in April at the suggested list price of $1299.95. The 57F59 and 65F59 will be available in May at the suggested list prices of $1499.95 and $1799.95, respectively.

ABOUT HITACHI AMERICA, LTD., HOME ELECTRONICS DIVISION

Hitachi America, Ltd. Home Electronics Division produces and markets a wide variety of consumer electronics products, including high-definition plasma televisions and monitors, LCD projection and flat panel HDTVs, CRT televisions, as well as DVD camcorders and DVD players. In addition to consumer products, Hitachi also markets professional plasma monitors for business applications as well as security and observation system products.

Hitachi has a unique position in the marketplace by manufacturing and developing its own core technologies to provide consumers and businesses with optimal product performance in each of Hitachi's product categories. Hitachi America, Ltd., a subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd., markets and manufactures a broad range of electronics, computer systems and products, and consumer electronics, and provides industrial equipment and services throughout North America. For more information, visit www.hitachi.us.

Hitachi, Ltd. (NYSE:HIT), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a leading global electronics company with approximately 347,000 employees worldwide. Fiscal 2004 (ended March 31, 2005) consolidated sales totaled 9,027.0 billion yen ($84.4 billion). The company offers a wide range of systems, products and services in market sectors including information systems, electronic devices, power and industrial systems, consumer products, materials and financial services. For more information on Hitachi, please visit the company's Web sites at www.hitachi.com or www.hitachi.us/tv.

(C) 2006, Hitachi, Ltd.

UltraVision is a registered trademark of Hitachi Home Electronics America, Inc.

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