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 out of 5.
Steve has over 17 year of experience in reviewing TV equipment. Most of his free time he spends tinkering with electronic in his garage or traveling to distant places.