Sony TV

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Sony TV

Sony has long been one of the most well-known and respected brands in consumer electronics, and their television lineup exemplifies their focus on innovation, performance and design. Sony was one of the first companies to popularize flat-panel LCD and LED TVs, and they continue to be on the cutting edge with their OLED and 8K models.

Sony TVs are highly regarded for their superb picture quality and sleek aesthetics. They utilize proprietary technologies like the 4K X-Reality Pro processor to upscale HD content, and the Triluminos display maps colors more accurately. Sony TVs also feature smart platforms powered by Android TV, providing access to thousands of apps and an intuitive interface. With Google Assistant built-in, you can control your TV and smart home devices completely hands-free.

From small screens to extra-large 85”+ displays, Sony produces televisions to fit any room and budget. While they are more of a premium brand, the focus is on delivering a stellar viewing experience that justifies the price point. If you’re looking for a new TV with excellent picture, intuitive smart features and iconic Sony style, their lineup offers compelling options.

Display Technology

Sony TVs utilize a range of display technologies including LCD, OLED, and QLED panels. This allows them to offer models to fit different needs and budgets.

LCD (liquid crystal display) is the most common and affordable display tech. Sony LCD TVs use either direct-lit or edge-lit LED backlights to illuminate the screen. Picture quality is decent, but blacks appear grayish in darker rooms due to light leakage.

OLED (organic light emitting diode) is considered the best display technology. Each pixel emits its own light, allowing for perfect blacks and infinite contrast. Sony's OLED TVs deliver stunning picture quality with vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles. However, they are more expensive than LCD.

QLED (quantum dot LED) is Samsung's alternative to OLED. Sony partners with Samsung for their QLED models which use quantum dots to produce better color and brightness. QLED comes close to OLED but still can't match its perfect blacks and pixel-level illumination control.

So in summary - OLED is the premium choice, LCD is budget-friendly, and QLED strikes a middle-ground. Sony has models using all three to appeal to diverse preferences and budgets.

Picture Quality

Sony TVs are known for having excellent picture quality, thanks to their advanced display technologies and image processing. Here are some of the key aspects of Sony TV picture performance:

Contrast

Sony TVs use advanced LED backlighting with local dimming to produce deep blacks and bright, punchy highlights. This helps create a high native contrast ratio for vivid images with plenty of depth and dimension. Many Sony models also support HDR (high dynamic range), further expanding the contrast range.

Color

Sony TVs utilize the Triluminos display and Super Bit Mapping technology for rich, accurate colors. They can display a wide color gamut close to the DCI-P3 standard used in cinema screens. Colors appear natural and saturated without being overblown. Sony OLED TVs also deliver highly realistic colors thanks to precise self-emitting pixel technology.

Motion Handling

Sony's Motionflow XR technology combines advanced video processing with a fast native panel refresh rate for smooth, clear motion with less blur. The XR processor analyzes and interpolates frames to reduce judder and make action scenes more fluid. Users can adjust motion settings to preference. Sony TVs also minimize input lag for responsive gaming.

Smart TV Features

Sony Smart TVs run Google's Android TV operating system, which provides access to the Google Play store and thousands of apps optimized for the big screen. This includes popular streaming services like Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more.

Android TV also has Chromecast built-in, allowing you to cast content from your mobile device or computer directly to the TV. Voice control is enabled through Google Assistant, so you can search for content, launch apps, adjust settings, and more completely hands-free. Just press the mic button on the remote to get started.

Some higher-end Sony TVs also feature hands-free voice control, where you don't even need the remote. Just say "OK Google" and the TV will listen for your command. This makes controlling your smart TV easier and more convenient than ever.

Overall, Sony's implementation of Android TV provides a robust smart TV experience with an extensive app library and excellent voice control integration. It's one of the best smart TV platforms available today in terms of usability and breadth of content.

Sound Quality

Sony TVs are known for excellent sound quality that enhances the viewing experience. Most models have built-in speakers that deliver powerful, immersive audio without the need for external speakers.

Sound Systems

Many Sony TVs utilize premium sound systems developed in partnership with audio experts. High-end models feature Acoustic Multi-Audio, which includes two front-facing speakers, two side speakers, and a subwoofer for cinematic surround sound. Mid-range models have ClearAudio+ technology with finely tuned speakers for balanced, natural sound.

Speakers

The number of built-in speakers varies by TV model. Entry-level Sony TVs have 2 speakers while mid to high-end models can have up to 4 speakers for stereo or surround sound. Some premium options have tweeters that deliver crisp high frequencies and woofers for deep bass.

Audio Formats

Sony TVs support modern surround sound formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for truly immersive audio. Many models are Hi-Res Audio certified for lossless reproduction. Key audio formats supported include Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS Digital Surround, and AAC to provide an enhanced listening experience.

Design

Sony TVs have a reputation for sleek, minimalist designs that look great in any living room. Recent models feature ultra-slim bezels and streamlined rear panels for a futuristic aesthetic.

The bezels on Sony's premium TVs like the A90J OLED are almost non-existent, giving you an immersive viewing experience without distractions. Mid-range options like the X90J have slightly thicker bezels but still retain a modern, understated look.

Sony TVs typically come with two stand options - a minimalist low-profile stand, or more substantial angled stands. The low-profile stand accentuates the thinness of the TV, while the angled stand provides greater stability. Both stand options are sturdy and made of high-quality metal.

Some Sony TVs like the A90J OLED also offer a zero stand option. This allows you to mount the TV directly to the wall for a floating, stand-less appearance.

Overall, Sony TVs feature iconic contemporary designs that seamlessly blend into home decor. The minimalist styling and multiple stand options let you customize the look to suit your space.

Sizes Available

Sony TVs come in a wide range of screen sizes to fit any room and viewing preference. Here are some of the most common sizes available:

Smaller Sizes (32-43 inches)

  • 32 inch - Well-suited for small rooms like bedrooms or offices. Provides a compact, affordable option.

  • 40-43 inch - Offers a step up in screen size compared to 32 inch models. Ideal for kitchens, dorm rooms, or secondary viewing areas.

Mid-range Sizes (49-65 inches)

  • 49-55 inch - The most popular size range for living rooms and main home TVs. Provides an immersive viewing experience.

  • 65 inch - Large enough for home theater or entertainment rooms. Delivers an impressive, cinematic viewing experience.

Larger Sizes (75-85 inches)

  • 75-77 inch - Massive, statement-making screens well-suited for dedicated home theaters.

  • 85 inch - Sony's largest consumer model. Provides a truly theater-like viewing with 8K resolution.

In terms of form factors, Sony offers traditional flat panel designs as well as wall-mounted models across its size range. Overall, with sizes from 32 inches up to 85 inches, Sony TVs are designed to fit any space and budget.

Pricing

Sony's TVs span a wide range of price points, catering to various budgets. Their pricing tends to be competitive with other major brands like Samsung and LG.

Some key things to know about Sony TV pricing:

  • Entry-level HD models start around £300-500 for smaller screen sizes (32-43 inches). These provide decent picture quality at an affordable price point.

  • Mid-range 4K models with HDR capability run from £600-1200 for screen sizes of 43-65 inches. This range offers great value, with excellent picture quality and smart features.

  • High-end 4K OLED TVs sell for £1500 and up for the larger 55-inch and 65-inch sizes. These feature Sony's cutting-edge OLED display technology for the best picture quality.

  • Larger screen sizes generally mean higher prices - a 75-inch 4K model could cost £2000 or more.

  • Built-in smart features don't add too much to the price - even entry-level models include basic smart platforms.

  • Top technologies like full-array local dimming, 120Hz refresh rates, and Acoustic Surface Audio boost prices on high-end models.

  • Sony's flagship Master Series commands a premium for the pinnacle of performance and features.

So in summary, Sony TVs range from budget-friendly models under £500 to premium home theater displays over £3000. Consider your needs and budget to find the right balance of price, features and display performance.

Notable Models

Sony's TV lineup includes several notable current models that showcase the brand's strengths.

Sony A90J OLED

The A90J is Sony's flagship OLED TV for 2021. Key features include:

  • 4K resolution with OLED display for perfect blacks and intense contrast

  • Cognitive Processor XR that delivers enhanced picture and sound

  • Google TV interface with voice search and smart home control

  • Acoustic Surface Audio+ with actuators that make the screen a speaker

Sony X95J LED

This high-end LED LCD TV features Sony's best processor and full-array local dimming. Key features:

  • Cognitive Processor XR with intelligent analysis for optimized 4K picture

  • Full-array LED backlight with local dimming for deep blacks

  • X-Wide Angle technology for vivid colors at wide viewing angles

  • Acoustic Multi-Audio with tweeters and woofers built into the frame

Sony X90J LED

A mid-range LED TV with great picture and Google TV features. Key features:

  • 4K HDR Processor X1 provides excellent upscaling and optimization

  • Full-array LED backlight with local dimming enhances contrast

  • Voice-enabled Google TV and built-in Chromecast

  • Slim minimalist design with thin aluminum bezel

Conclusion

Sony TVs have a lot to offer consumers looking for a high-quality television. Their displays utilize top-notch technologies like OLED, LED, and LCD to produce stunning 4K and 8K resolution. Picture quality is excellent thanks to features like X1 processors, Triluminos color, and X-Reality PRO upscaling. Sony TVs also provide robust smart platforms through Android TV, allowing access to popular apps, voice controls, and Google Assistant integration.

Audio quality stands out as well, with many models featuring Acoustic Surface Audio that vibrates the screen to act as the speakers. Design-wise, Sony TVs have an elegant, minimalist aesthetic that blends into any living space. They come in a wide range of sizes from small 32” screens up to massive 85”+ displays. While Sony TVs fall on the more expensive end of the spectrum, the pricing is justified by the top-tier performance and innovative technology these televisions offer. With options like the Bravia XR and Master Series models, Sony produces some of the best TVs on the market today.

Sony TV comparison

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ModelSony KD-43X75WL: 43-inch 4K HDR LED Smart TVSony KD-55X75WL: 55-inch 4K HDR LED BRAVIA TVSony XR-50X90S: 50-inch BRAVIA XR Full Array LED 4K UHD HDR Smart TVSony BRAVIA XR-55A80L: 55-inch OLED 4K HDR BRAVIA TVSony BRAVIA KD-50X80K: 50-inch 4K Ultra HD LCD TV
Model NameKD-32W800KD-55X75WLX90SPUxrx1
ManufacturerSONYSonySonySonySony
Display TechnologyLEDLEDLCDOLEDLED
Included ComponentsKDW800, RMF-TX521E RemotePower Cable, Remote Control, StandTV, Voice Remote Control, Remote Control, Operating Instructions, Quick Setup Guide / Supplement CUE (GA), Table Top Stand, Batteries, AC Power Cord Spec See moreRemote Control, Batteries, Power CablePower Cable, Remote Control, Stand
Refresh Rate50 Hz62 Hz100 Hz120 Hz61 Hz
ResolutionHD4K4K4K4K
Screen Size32 Inches5550 Inches55 Inches50
Special FeatureHigh Dynamic RangeFlatAuto Low Latency Mode in HDMI 2.1, a Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and more specialist gaming features., Acoustic Multi-Audio, Full Array LED, XR Triluminous Pro, Ambient Optimisation technology See moreFlatFlat
Supported Internet ServicesAmazon Instant VideoGoogle TVNetflix, Free Sat/Free View, Google TV, Amazon Instant Video, YouTubeGoogle TVGoogle TV
Item Model NumberKD32W800P1UKD-55X75WLXR50X90SPUXR55A80LUKD-50X75WL

FAQ

Can you list the different types of Sony TVs?

Sony produces a wide range of TVs, including LED, OLED, LCD, and Android TVs. Their current lineup includes the X80K, X85K, X95K, A80K, A90K, Z9K, and XR OLED series in various sizes. Sony is known for high-end picture quality, especially with their OLED and top-end LED models.

What operating system do Sony TVs use?

Most current Sony TVs run on the Google Android TV platform. This provides access to the Google Play Store for apps, built-in Chromecast functionality, and Google Assistant voice controls. Some models also integrate Sony's own Android TV interface for additional customization options.

What smart features do Sony TVs have?

Sony TVs integrate a range of smart capabilities powered by Android TV. This includes Google Assistant voice control, Chromecast built-in for wireless streaming, Google Play Store app access, Sony's own content recommendations and search, and compatibility with Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit.

How good are Sony TVs for gaming?

Sony TVs are very well-suited for gaming. Select models include dedicated Game Mode picture settings, HDMI 2.1 ports enabling 4K 120Hz, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). This makes them great options for console and PC gaming.

Do Sony TVs have good picture quality?

Yes, Sony TVs are renowned for excellent picture quality. Their higher-end OLED and LED TVs utilize Sony's advanced processing to deliver incredible color, contrast, motion handling, upscaling, and brightness. They support all major HDR formats for a cinematic experience.

What audio capabilities do Sony TVs have?

Many Sony TVs feature powerful built-in audio with technology like Acoustic Surface Audio+ that vibrates the whole screen. Select models include Dolby Atmos support and dedicated center speakers for clear dialogue. Sony TVs can also be connected to soundbars or surround sound systems.

What smart TV platform do Sony TVs use?

Sony TVs run on the Android TV platform, which integrates Google services like Google Play, Chromecast, and Google Assistant voice control. Sony also layers their own interface on top for additional features like content search and recommendations.

Do Sony TVs have good viewing angles?

Sony's higher-end OLED TVs have excellent wide viewing angles, while their LED TVs have decent but more limited viewing angles. So OLED models are better suited for wide seating arrangements.

How reliable are Sony TVs?

As a major brand, Sony TVs are generally very reliable with low failure rates. Many models include 3-5 year warranties. Sony has a good reputation for quality control and customer service if any issues do occur.

What sizes of Sony TVs are available?

Sony offers a wide range of TV sizes. Their 2022 lineup includes screen sizes ranging from 43 inches up to 85/95 inches for 8K models. Typical sizes like 55, 65, and 75 inches are available across multiple series. So there are many options for any room size.