London, Nov 18 (IANS) Electronics giant Sony has launched what is being billed as the world's first television with a screen which can be tilted backwards, which the company says is optimum for comfortable viewing.

Apparently, a slight backwards lean of six degrees is now the best position for a TV set as many of us mount modern flat-screens on furniture a foot or two above the ground.

The new range can be slotted into the tilting position to achieve what its makers say is the optimum picture, as we slump down on our plush, comfortable sofas.

It comes as design experts say we are increasingly choosing glossy, shiny TV screens which complement our homes' style even when they are switched off, reports the Daily Mail.

The 'Monolithic' TV screens, priced at 1,300 pounds for a 40-inch screen, are available in state-of-the art 3D models, and can either be set up vertically or slotted to a six-degree backwards lean.

"Most people don't put their televisions at waist height any more, they set them up a foot or two off the ground,' said Tim Page, Sony Europe's senior manager of technology marketing.

"With more minimalist, uncluttered styles for furniture, it suits the trend to place the television where it's in a less obtrusive position."

Sony researchers say a six degree lean is the ideal angle - any less doesn't make much of a discernible difference, and any more could lead to the screen reflecting ceiling lights.