It seems like Sony always has new HDTV products every quarter. People are not over the last released model yet and here comes a newer series. Sony can’t seem to run out of improvements and enhancements to add to their current line of HDTVs and the company is also now joining the trend of the so-called LED TVs. The new XBR10 series employs the edge-lit LED technology, hence called LED TV.

One of the two models in the XBR10 series is the Sony KDL-52XBR10 – a 52-inch TV. The other one is 46 inches. This is one of the thinnest LCD TVs of Sony and that is because of the edge-lit LED technology. And so as not to destroy the sleek and thin exterior, the company makes use of the wireless technology with the XBR10 series. The unit comes with the Bravia 1080 wireless transmission system, which is similar in appearance as a cable box, and is essentially a media box where all of the supposed connections to the TV are attached. The only wire that can be found at the back of the TV unit itself is the power cord.

In terms of picture quality, the Sony KDL-52XBR10 claims to have very dynamic contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. This model is also full HD at 1920×1080. However, compared to the previous XBR8 model of Sony, the XBR10 appears to be an underdog because of the RGB LED backlight, or the Triluminos, used in the XBR8 series. This technology produced extremely better color accuracy and saturation than the XBR10s. Nevertheless, the picture quality on the KDL-52XBR10 is still stunning and realistic.

This XBR10 model makes use of the 240Hz Motionflow technology for smooth video processing. It is also capable of playing 24p content through HDMI. To further enhance video quality, especially on fast-moving objects, a host of other features are built-in to the KDL-52XBR10 such as the Advanced Contrast Enhancer, MPEG Noise Reduction, CineMotion Reverse 3:2 pulldown, BRAVIA Engine 3, 3D Comb Filter, as well as Game Mode and Deep Color.

Sony has been known, as well, to be big on interactivity of their products. With the XBR10s, Sony still included the common features such as YouTube access, Amazon Video on Demand, Sony Pictures, Sports Illustrated, etc. What’s new with this series is the addition of Netflix. Widgets are still present to keep the user up-to-date with different things.

In terms of connectivity, the media box has sufficient amount of input and output ports. It has 4 HDMI ports, an RF connection, RS-232, analog and digital audio ports, composite video ports, and a USB 2.0 port.

With all these features and the introduction of wireless technology on an HDTV, the Sony KDL-52XBR10 is definitely a nice gadget to have in the living room. For those with big pockets the current best deal for this model is $4,799.

Some people are hesitant to upgrade to an HDTV because of the usual expensive price tag that goes with each unit. The truth is, there are actually a few exceptions to that, and one of them is the Toshiba 37RV525R 37 inches LCD TV with its current market price ranging from $500 to a little over $700. That is indeed a good price offering considering all the features that come with it.

Performance and Quality

The Toshiba 37RV525R is one of the Full HD LCD TVs offered by the company. This means that this 37-inch display features 1920×1080p resolution with over 2 million pixels. The predecessor of the 1080p, which is the 720p, only has half the number of pixels onscreen. In order to display images on the 720p, almost half of the actual video content from the source had to be discarded. This reduction results in diminished picture quality and less details compared to the output of the same video source on a full HD 1080p screen.

This Toshiba line also features the so-called CineSpeed technology which ensures timely motion resolution for smooth rendering of moving objects. An LCD TV with this technology has a response time of approximately 8 milliseconds, or even less. Though this may not be at par with higher end models, this response time is fast enough to produce high quality motion films that are clear and sharp, without the blurry images.

Another technology employed in the Toshiba 37RV525R is the DynaLight. This feature utilizes dynamic backlights that are automatically self-adjusting depending on the brightness level of the video frames and the image content itself. With this feature, the original panel contrast can possibly be increased by seven to ten times depending on the factors mentioned. This high level of contrast produces deep black levels, which renders vivid and sharp images.

The Toshiba 37RV525R is also ideal for gamers as it has a dedicated Gaming Mode specifically designed for use with game controllers. With this mode, some image processing circuits are bypassed to lessen the response time from the game controller. Compared to the traditional 60Hz TVs, there is a reduction of about 33 milliseconds in the response time. Even if some circuits were bypassed, images still remain clear and crisp.

Design and Connectivity

This 37-inch TV from Toshiba is just the right size for a couple, or even for a small family. It’s not too big to consume your entire living room, nor too small to enjoy and appreciate whatever you’re watching on the TV. There are also enough ports for connection to and from different devices – 3 HDMI inputs, 2 HD component video inputs, S-Video port, PC input and audio output ports.

Although the Toshiba 37RV525R does not have all the hyped HDTV features, its output and quality are already worth the price. This model is recommended for those who want to experience full HD on a medium-sized screen for a very reasonable price.

When buying HDTV, one consideration is the size of the room where the unit will be placed. For an average-sized living room, anywhere from 32 to 46 inches would probably be a good size of an LCD. But how about the Sony Bravia KDL-70XBR7? Where in the world will it fit in an average house? Sure, it would be definitely great to watch your favorite movie on a 70-inch LCD, but unless you have a mini- theater at home, it will be more practical to settle for something smaller.

The Sony KDL-70XBR7 definitely has great built-in features. However, this model will most likely be appealing only to hard-core entertainment enthusiasts who have the money and space to afford this giant telly. Buying this 70-inch XBR7 will cost your pocket around $20,000 which may not be a reasonable amount for most average consumers. However, once you start seeing the images in this big screen, you can’t help but just be awed.

First of all, this gigantic baby has Full HD capability, which means that it is able to produce images at 1080p resolution. Images and scenes look so realistic that it somehow sends the feeling that you are included in the scene, seeing it live, and not just merely watching on a television. Another reason why images seem to pop out and have life is the extremely deep black levels of this 70-inch XBR7, thanks to its 10-bit LCD panel with Advanced Contrast Enhancer and Live Color Creation circuit.

From its predecessor, which is the XBR6 series, Sony further enhanced the features by incorporating the Bravia Engine 2 Pro digital video processing. The Sony Bravia KDL-70XBR7 has 120MHz Motion Flow technology that renders fast moving objects and action scenes smoothly.

In terms of its design, Sony still did a good job. The huge screen is surrounded by piano black bezel with glossy finish and glass details. On each side, you will find the speaker grilles that are just right in size; otherwise, they might ruin the overall design of the 70XBR7.

Connectivity for the Sony KDL-70XBR7 is not a problem as it has just enough built-in ports. The unit includes 4 HDMI 1.3 ports, PC input, component inputs, Ethernet port and an RS-232, which is a step-up from the XBR6 models. It also has Bravia Sync capabilities, as well as DMe.

Having an excellent picture quality on a gargantuan TV screen is indeed something that is truly desired, but, may not match what most people are only willing to pay. Nevertheless, this huge Sony TV will undoubtedly be in the wishlist of many as this is the luxury that not many can pay for. If you think you need so much quality and screen estate go to Amazon where there are just two models left for a price of $19,999 with free shipping included.

When LCD TVs first came out in the market, people can’t help but just be awed by the vibrant colors and sharpness of the images, yet think twice of buying because of the expensive price tag that comes with these units. Now, these TVs still kept on evolving and improving in terms of their features but with the price, somehow, unchanged. There are even some new models that came out with all the basic features an LCD TV should have, yet with incredibly affordable price. The Panasonic TC-L32C12 is one of them.

When it first came out, it was one of the cheapest 32-inch LCD TV in the market with a price no more than $500. Now, one can even take home a Panasonic TC-L32C12 for less than $400. Even with this low price, the unit is still full of the features an HDTV would normally have.

With the Panasonic TC-L32C12, clear and sharp images are guaranteed. Both analog and digital TV channels look brilliant in this unit. Even without the use of a cable box, channels can be detected quickly straight out of the box. Compared to the old tube sets, this LCD unit has the capability of detecting more channels, including the HD ones.

The Panasonic TC-L32C12 comes with 720p native resolution. Although the trend now is the 1080p resolution for bigger and higher-end LCDs, it is not really necessary for this relatively smaller screen size. Images still come out real and crisp like it would on a bigger screen with 1080p resolution. Those who are savvy enough with picture quality adjustments will be glad to know that there is enough freedom given to the user to change picture settings.

This Panasonic model belongs to the VIERA series of the company. Hence, there is VIERA Link HDMI software included in the set. With the Viera Link, HDMI devices, regardless whether they are Panasonic or not, that are hooked up with this TC-L32C12 can also be controlled with the TV’s remote. No need to do any programming, the remote will just simply work.

With the TC-L32C12, an SD card slot is also included which allows users to view stored pictures and videos on an HD screen. Shots taken at 7MP settings and above look awesome when displayed on this 32-inch TV.

Although some would say that the Panasonic TC-L32C12 is quite small for an LCD TV, it is still a best buy for those buying their very first HDTV or those who are looking to replace the 20” tube for a small living room. With its unquestionably low price, solid picture quality, and all the great features involved, this TV is definitely worth taking home, considering the current price of $369.99 offered by Amazon.

As a result TC-L32C12 gets 4 out of 5 score.

Most of the HDTVs from Sony are known to be expensive due to the extravagant features included in each model. But not the KDL-L5000 series. The series comes in four sizes – 22-, 26-, 32-, and the 37-inch models. All of them belong to the entry level models of Sony and do not have all the hanky-panky features of their higher-end cousins.

The Sony KDL-26L5000, in particular, is one of the smaller LCD TVs in the market today. Despite being an entry-level model, and inexpensive at that, this model does not fall short in its features. All of the must-have features of a basic LCD TV are incorporated in this little baby. Hence, it is a good buy for those who are looking for their first LCD TV and just want to try out the feel of having one.

The Looks

Unlike the more expensive Sony TVs, the KDL-26L5000 does not have the sleek exterior with thin bezel and overall elegant look. It is much chunkier with its thick frames and somewhat tapered edges. This model also comes with a stand that does not swivel. Nevertheless, the unit still looks robust and more enticing than other brands of the same specs.

The KDL-26L5000’s remote is smaller than other models’ yet more useful. There is a central key that is very much identifiable and an easy access key for the aspect ratio control. The menu screen is much simpler as well, just like its looks. It does not employ the popularized cross media bar by the Sony PS3s. It is also nice of Sony to add brief descriptions for each of the menu options, making this more user-friendly, indeed.

Features and Performance

Since the Sony KDL-26L5000 is an entry-level LCD TV, people should not expect features normally found in bigger and more expensive HDTVs. First off, this KDL-L5000 model only has 720p resolution, unlike the common HDTV trend now which is 1080p. But since the screen size is relatively small, just 26 inches, a higher resolution is not really necessary. Though it would be good to have the 1080p resolution, 720p will also do just fine with this model.

Despite the unremarkable design and some low-end features, the KDL-26L5000’s picture quality is something to be proud of. The black levels and color accuracy of this Sony series is comparable to other higher-end models. On bright backgrounds, colors are brilliant and very much realistic. Dark scenes are also as good with the deep black that this model produces.

Another feature that is not found in this KDL-26L5000 is the 120Hz video processing. Hence, fast-moving scenes should be expected to be somewhat blurry. But this should not impair the overall evaluation of this Sony model considering the solid picture quality that it produces, as well as the competitive price. For an entry-level TV, the Sony KDL-26L5000 is one of the best indeed.

Sony continues to be one of the top brands in terms of entertainment gadgets. Early this year, Sony announced the release of its new Z-series in its Bravia line of HDTVs. The new Sony KDL Z5100 series has three screen sizes – 40”, 46” and 52” displays. All three have identical features and also have similar performance, so we’ll just take a look at the 52-inch model of this series.

Exemplary Performance

This huge 52-inch display boasts of its Full HD panel with 1920×1080 (1080p) resolution. Viewing Blu-Ray discs and other HD sources prove to be an amazing experience. With its 100,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, the Sony KDL-52Z5100 is able to produce excellent black levels with even lighting all throughout the screen. Primary and secondary colors are almost perfectly accurate with just the right color saturation.

The Sony KDL-52Z5100 also has the Motionflow 240Hz technology which takes video processing to the next level. Fast-moving scenes are virtually blur-free and sharp with the help of this technology. This is mostly evident when watching sports events, action films or when playing intensive games on the TV. However, for regular TV viewing, the effects of 240Hz are not really noticeable.

Another thing to note about the Z series is its compliance to the Energy Star requirements. In fact, the TVs in this series even exceed the Energy Star 3.0 must-haves by 15%. To save more power, features such as Light Sensor technology and Dynamic Backlight Control are built-in to this display to control the backlight intensity based on room lighting and image brightness on the screen.

Unique-to-Sony Features

Together with the Motionflow 240Hz technology, Sony Bravia TVs also has the Bravia Engine 3 which is a fully digital video processor that further enhances image output. This results in more realistic images that are sharp, crisp and vibrant with full details.

With the Sony KDL-52Z5100, Bravia Internet Video is also included. With the use of an Ethernet broadband connection, video content can be accessed and downloaded from different sources such as Sony Pictures, Sony Music, You Tube, Amazon On Demand, Sports Illustrated, etc. Bravia Widgets is also available which allows users to get daily weather reports, news, sports updates, and a lot more.

The well-loved user interface of Sony PS3 and PSP is now found in the Sony KDL-52Z5100 with the integration of the Xross Media Bar. This enhances interactivity and user experience of the Z-series Sony TVs.

At a reasonable enough price, especially when bought from online stores such as Amazon, the Sony KDL-52Z5100 is very well recommended for an outstanding viewing experience that exceeds most people’s expectations.

People clamor for high definition TVs for a clear picture, realistic images and superb viewing experience. But with so many HDTVs, of different types, models and sizes, now in the market, it is more complicated now for consumers to choose one that they would set their eyes, and pockets, on. With a careful and closer look, though, there are only a few that truly excel in terms of picture quality while providing great viewing experience. One of them is the Sharp AQUOS LC65E77UM, one of the 2009 Sharp HDTV models.

On the outside, the AQUOS LC65E77UM already looks elegant with its sleek black frame with gold-accentuated borders. The speakers are also neatly towed at the bottom so as not to interrupt the nicely designed bezel.

Unlike other big screens at 65-inches, this AQUOS model showcased the crispness of the image. It is equipped with Full 1080p resolution with Spectral Contrast Engine XD which makes the excellent deep black levels in this display possible. Color accuracy is almost perfect, and coupled with the right contrast, definitely brings images to life.

In motion films, the LC65E77UM doesn’t get left behind. The model has 120HZ Fine Motion Enhanced feature that allows smooth video processing, especially for films with fast motion images. Watching an action-packed movie on this HDTV will definitely be a breathtaking experience.

Although the amazing picture quality can be intimidating to average consumers, this baby is actually user-friendly. The menu and picture controls are easy to use and understand. It can even be used right away from the box, no setup hassles and tedious configurations. For the more advanced users, they will likely be happy as well because of the numerous inputs available. There are 4 HDMI inputs available, 2 component video inputs, RS-232 and PC inputs, as well as other ports normally found on a high-def TV.

The only downside noticed in this Sharp AQUOS LC65E77UM is the sound quality of its internal speakers. They are fine when watching news and simple programs, but not really great for movies and audio-intensive programs. However, most HDTVs have the same weakness, anyway, and others are even worse than this model. A home-theater system would definitely complement this HDTV to compensate for this flaw. And it can easily be connected, as well, with the numerous inputs available.

For those wanting to have a big screen in their living room or bedroom, yet not keen on spending excessive amounts for other features that would eventually render useless, the Sharp AQUOS LC65E77UM is indeed a good bet and with the price of just $2,839 (including free shipping) for a 65 inches it’s a real winner.

Extremely thin HDTVs are common with the newest technology in this market, the LED-backlit LCD TVs, but not really with the standard LCD displays. The new LG 42SL80, perhaps, is the thinnest thus far among all standard LCD TVs. This LG model does not only boast of this, but also of its overall design and picture quality.

Chic and Stylish Design

From afar, the LG 42SL80 looks virtually frameless. Upon careful inspection, the thin frame around the huge display panel becomes visible and the single thin sheet of glass covering them is more apparent. This gives the TV a neat, glass-overall exterior. The internal 10-watt speakers also did not bother to interfere with the sleek design as it is very well hidden behind the panel.

To maintain the streamlined design, the SL80 does not have any buttons sticking out of the frame. Instead, there are touch-sensitive controls that briefly illuminate on finger swipe. For those who are not quick enough to identify the briefly illuminated labels (only remains lit for 5 seconds), it will be much easier to use the remote control. The clicker for the LG 42SL80 matches the unit’s exterior having a glossy finish as well. There are 45 fairly-sized buttons which, however, lack illumination.

Features and Performance

One notable feature of most LG displays, which is also found in the 42SL80, is the Picture Wizard. The wizard is much useful for those who are not that keen in the different picture settings. It guides the user through basic configurations of common picture settings such as contrast, black and white levels, backlighting, color saturation, sharpness and color gain. The output can be saved and assigned to a particular input.

Color accuracy is excellent, except for the minor oversaturation of blue colors on some occasions. Images come out natural with the deep black levels and relatively high contrast ratio of this display, especially from HD sources. There are some haloing noticed, but can be eliminated by deactivating the TruMotion feature of the LG 42SL80. Watching standard definition TV, though, appears to be quite soft with some jagged edges.

The LG 42SL80 is also equipped with Super In-plane Switching (S-IPS) technology which allows for wider viewing angles. In terms of connectivity, this model has ample amount of ports with 4 HDMI inputs, 2 component audio and video inputs, 2 composite A/V ports, PC input, USB port, optical digital audio output and a PC audio input.

The LG 42SL80 is truly a good choice for those seeking an aesthetically elegant display coupled with great HD picture quality and a good price ($1,034.99 with Free Shipping at Amazon).

With the addition of 240Hz processing to the edge-lit LED based LCD TV, Samsung came out with its highest end thus far in the LCD TV arena. The UNB8000 series is one of the, if not THE, most expensive in the market as of this writing with the 55-inch version ranging anywhere from $2500 to $ 3000. There is also another member of this series which is the 46-inch TV which costs just a little bit cheaper, yet all the other features are the same.

Positive Justifications

With the Samsung UN55B8000’s high cost, consumers are definitely expecting a lot from this model. Fair enough, Samsung maintained its highest quality standard and gave buyers several reasons why they should take this baby home.

Just by merely looking at it, elegance and sophistication is already apparent. From the side, its thickest point is just 1.2 inches, which makes it one of the thinnest LCD TVs in the market. Its black exterior with transparent edge all around gives it a classy look. This Samsung series also comes with a brushed-metal base with a unique transparent cylindrical stand that holds the TV upright.

In terms of performance, the Samsung UN55B8000 exhibits great picture quality. The LED backlights allowed for more accurate colors and clearer display. Also, its deep black level is one of the best among all LCD TVs in the market, producing more realistic pictures and excellent contrast. The series showed significant improvement from its 7000 series counterpart. The main difference between the two is the firmware upgrade that was done for the UNB8000 series, and that, indeed, did its job of improving some of the flaws seen before on the 7000 series.

Another cool and unique feature of the Samsung UN55B8000 is its remote control. Unlike others that require line of sight for the remote control to work, the remote for this Samsung model works on the RF technology. This means that the user can be in another room, within the covered distance of RF, and still be able to use the remote control with the TV. The only requirement for it to work is for the remote to be “paired” first with the unit. Once it is done, the remote need not be pointed at the television anymore to change channels or settings.

Similar to earlier Samsung models, the menu screen is still one of the best among other LCD TVs. It has just the right size of text and the menu options are mostly useful, especially to entertainment freaks who know the ins and outs of the TV settings. Another new feature of the Samsung UN55B8000 is having the Yahoo widgets built-in, together with some other applications like games, weather, recipes, etc.

On the Other Side

Obviously, one of the reasons why most consumers will probably hesitate with this model is the price tag. Its major marketing point is the fact that it is able to process at 240Hz; however, for an average TV viewer, the increase in video processing is virtually unnoticeable. Hence, the 240Hz does not really justify the price that much.

Another noticeable downside of the Samsung UN55B8000 is its off-angle viewing. Yes, the transparent stalk allows swiveling on either side, but once the unit is moved, the picture significantly degrades. Also, its shiny exterior may produce reflections when watching in a bright room. Entertainment and tech savvy customers might not appreciate the lack of analog inputs that most other electronic devices still have at the moment.

Taking both sides into consideration, Samsung UN55B8000 is still a good buy, especially for those who do not mind spending more in these types of gadgets.

If you want to buy Samsung UN55B8000, go grab it at Amazon

The latest buzz in the HDTV industry right now is the release of LED-based TVs. Other than surpassing technology implementations of LCD and Plasma TVs, these LED-edged TVs also come in a very sleek and stylish design package.

Highly-improved Designs

The Samsung UN55B7000 is part of the complete line of LED-based TVs of Samsung. These units are actually LCD TVs still, but instead of using the standard fluorescent backlight, these new TVs make use of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). Because of this, manufacturers were able to also revamp the designs of the units especially in terms of thickness, or lack thereof. This UN55B7000 is only 1.2 inches on its thickest part. This is one of the extremely thin models among the LED-based TVs now available in the market.

Even at 55 inches, this model is lighter compared to other TVs of this size, mainly because of the thin structure. Also, because of the technology innovation, this Samsung model is one of the better performers in terms of energy efficiency.

Samsung still maintains its elegance with this model’s exterior design. The huge screen is surrounded by glossy black frame with a touch of red on the borders and further surrounded by see-through edges. The Samsung UN55B7000 looks suspended over a glass stand with cylindrical transparent stalk that allows swiveling to either side. Although the look exudes boldness, not everyone may appreciate the red frame. Unfortunately, it is not something that can be customized.

The UN55B7000’s remote control also has unique addition at the rear portion to keep it stable when lying on a flat surface. The buttons are also easily identified with the different shape and size. There is also a Tools button that allows easy access to the different controls available in this entertainment set.

Technology Advancement for Enhanced Viewing

As mentioned above, the Samsung UN55B7000 utilizes LEDs for its backlight instead of the normal fluorescent lights. This still remains to be an LCD, though, just with a different backlight technology. One of the major advantages of the use of LEDs is the local dimming effect which happens when a group of LEDs turn off to produce very deep black levels. However, this Samsung model does not have the local dimming effect which is one downside compared to other LED-based TVs.

To compensate for that, the UN55B7000 produces accurate colors and crystal clear images that make them stand out and look real. Even without the local dimming effect, the black levels in this model are sufficiently deep enough to show off excellent pictures. However, the black levels and color intensity are not uniform all throughout the screen in a few instances. Also, as the screen can be swiveled to the sides, the picture quality degradation at off-angles becomes more obvious.

The Samsung UN55B7000’s selling price may be quite a shock to many, averaging at about $3000 a piece. Samsung justifies that, though, with other good points such as having very good dejudder processing, numerous picture adjustments for the more savvy users, interactive options such as Yahoo widgets and some built-in contents.

UN55B7000 receives rating 3.5 out of 5.

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