7/26/2009

Sony Bravia L-Series KDL-26L5000 26-Inch 720p LCD HDTV, Black...


Sony Bravia L-Series HDTVs provide vivid 720p resolution and dynamic contrast ratios of 13,000:1 (the 26-inch model) and 13,000:1 (for 32-inch model), with many versatile sizes perfect for the budget-conscious consumer or anyone wanting an HDTV that works well in the bedroom, kitchen, or office. Bravia L-Series HDTVs have a wealth of HD connections, such as three HDMI inputs. Each HDMI input transmits uncompressed digital video and multi-channel digital audio on a single cable, so you able to expand your home theater system without a lot of messy wires. Also included's a PC input that lets you use your HDTV as a computer monitor. If you need to streamline your HD components further, the Bravia L-Series HDTVs feature Bravia Sync technology and are compatible with optional Bravia Link Modules such as the Bravia Wireless Link, which wirelessly streams HD video and audio from your A/V equipment to your HDTV from up to 65 feet away. You might expect that more features mean more power consumption, but Bravia L-Series HDTVs include a Dynamic Backlight Control which automatically controls general image brightness to help the TV exceed ENERGY STAR 3.0 standards.

Bought to substitute a smaller-screen TV in your bedroom. The larger size is much appreciated, but the quality of the picture is beyond any I've seen. We have had other LCD HDTV sets, but this one far exceeds the picture quality of our other sets. Easy to set up. I got a wall mount for this size set and the entire installation took just a couple of minutes. Highly recommended and worth the extra money.

At the price you might not at first think of this little SONY as a bargain, but wait until you've owned if for a month or so. If you have wasted time trying other, less expensive sets, as many of us have, then you will cognize what I mean by bargain!
Marvelous picture. Easy to set up and program.Easily moved around. I don't understand the negative comments about sound. What do you want?....a stereo system or a television set??!
This is a GREAT little television.

Sony BRAVIA V-Series KDL-40V5100 40-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV...


Manufacturer's Review (March 3, 2009)
With Full HD 1080p resolution and Motionflow 120Hz technology, Sony BRAVIA V-Series HDTVs are engineered for fast-action movies, sports, and game play. Enjoy sharp, crystal clear images with the BRAVIA Engine 2 fully digital video processor on the KDL-40V5100's 40-inch screen.

Engineered for fast-action movies, sports, and game play. Click to enlarge.



16:9 Full HD 1080p Resolution Panel (1920x1080)
16:9 Full HD 1080p resolution panel (1920x1080) accepts any HDTV signal and renders it with optimum resolution, so you could take full advantage of Blu-ray Disc players and Sony PLAYSTATION 3 entertainment systems that can deliver 1080p content.

Includes RM-YD028 remote.

Compatible with BRAVIA link modules like the Internet Video Link above.

Motionflow with IB Reduction creates new frames after reducing the image blur, allowing a much sharper image to be displayed. Click to enlarge.

Dynamic contrast
Dynamic contrast involves real-time image processing that happens in deep blacks in darker scenes, as well as fine details in shadows and other dark areas of the picture for a difference you can truly see.

Motionflow 120Hz technology
Motionflow 120HZ technology doubles the frame rate to help remove judder in film sources, HD content, and broadcast movies and primetime programming, creating smoother, more fluid motion that delivers a natural and realistic viewing experience.

BRAVIA Engine 2 fully digital video processor
The BRAVIA Engine 2 fully digital video processor uses a collection of unique Sony technologies to significantly reduce noise, enhance overall image detail, and optimize contrast so every scene produces sharp, vibrant, life-like images and color.

HD input x 7
Get versatile HD connection options with seven HD inputs. Four HDMI inputs (up to 1080/60p capable) let you connect a Sony PLAYSTATION 3 entertainment system, Blu-ray Disc player, or any other HDMI-capable equipment and get uncompressed digital video and multi-channel digital audio on a single cable. An HD component input and an HD combo input (1080/60i capable) provide added HD-capable connectivity, and a PC input (HD-15 pin) offers the added versatility of using your HDTV as a computer monitor.

USB with photos and music
Connect your camera, USB-enabled MP3 player, or USB storage device directly to your HDTV's USB input to view photos on the big screen or listen to your favorite MP3s.

BRAVIA Link compatibility
BRAVIA Link compatibility expands your HDTV's capabilities by letting you connect optional BRAVIA Link modules, with the BRAVIA DVD Link, BRAVIA Wireless Link, and BRAVIA Input Link (all sold separately).

BRAVIA Sync capable
BRAVIA Sync capability combines the one-touch access and control functionality of BRAVIA Theatre Sync with the ability to control CEC-enabled Sony Handycam camcorders and Cyber-shot digital still cameras using the TV's remote and an on-screen show via an HDMI connecting.

Advanced Contrast Enhancer w/ dynamic backlight control
This powerful combination of features adjusts the brightness of the backlight both to optimize image quality and reduce power consumption. It works in real time, controlling bright outdoor images and dark interior shots scene by scene for better video quality and a reduction in power use.

ENERGY STAR 3.0 certified
Sony V-series HDTVs exceed Energy Star 3.0 requirements by incorporating advanced power saving features e.g. Light Sensor technology that adjusts backlight intensity based on ambient room lighting conditions and Dynamic Backlight Control that adjusts backlight intensity based on the brightness of the image on the screen. 24p True Cinema mode provides a direct connection to 24p video sources, avoiding conversions and allowing users to enjoy films at their intended 24 fps (frames per second) cinematic picture quality when using a 24p-capable output device, such as a Blu-ray Disc player or Sony PLAYSTATION 3 entertainment system.

Favorites Menu
The Favorites Menu function makes it easy to quickly access your favorite channels and video inputs.

VESA compatible hole spacing
VESA-compatible hole spacing uses an industry-standard mounting hole pattern that can be used with VESA-compliant mounting brackets, taking the guesswork out of selecting the proper hardware for hanging your TV on the wall.
What's in the Box
Sony BRAVIA V-Series KDL-40V5100 40-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV, Remote Control RM-YD028, Batteries (Type AA x2), AC Power Cord (attached), Screws (4) for pedestal, Operating Instructions, Quick Setup Guide, Warranty Card, Table Top Stand (separate, pre-assembled).
For consumers who want an HDTV that keeps pace with fast-action movies, sports, and game play, Sony BRAVIA V-Series Flat Panel HDTVs combine Full HD 1080p performance and Motionflow 120Hz technology for an amazing viewing experience. Motionflow 120Hz takes both high-definition and standard programming a step further by increasing sharpness and detail in fast-moving images for more fluid, natural motion. In addition, BRAVIA V-Series HDTVs use proprietary Image Blur Reduction technology to further enhance the picture for even better performance. The HDTVs feature BRAVIA Engine 2 technology, which uses exclusive Sony algorithms to reduce visual noise and sharpen and enhance an already-striking dynamic contrast ratio. Additionally, they include seven versatile HD connections to assure you get moving image quality from all your HD components. Take advantage of four HDMI inputs, component and composite inputs, and a PC input, as well as a USB input that lets you play audio files from USB storage devices, or connect a compatible camera to your HDTV for a quick and easy slide show. Sony knows your home theater set-up doesn't stop with your HDTV, which is why the BRAVIA V-Series HDTVs are compatible with BRAVIA Link Modules -- including the BRAVIA Wireless Link, BRAVIA DVD Link, and BRAVIA Input Link Modules (all sold separately). The HDTVs also back up BRAVIA SyncTM technology so you can control all of your compatible devices with a single remote. And all BRAVIA HDTVs exceed ENERGY STAR 3.0 requirements for in-use and stand-by power consumption, meaning you don't need a lot of power to get a lot of performance.

My first review of the TV was negative due to a problem of dimming during dark scenes. But few days ago Sony released a software patch to correct the problem and it worked for me. Now, the auto dimming can be turned off by setting the "Adv. Contrast Enhancer" to Off. Also, even when it's turned On, it doesn't behave like it did pre- patch, it now dims gradually rather than abruptly and it doesn't dim as much as it did before. Thank you very much Sony, I'm updating my rating to 5-star.

I'm very happy with the TV now that the auto dim is fixed. If you own the TV and having problems with the dimming, go to the help section of Sony's site to download the patch and the instructions on how to apply it. You will need a USB thumb drive formatted in FAT32, but if you don't have it, Sony will mail you one if you call their customer support.

7/12/2009

Samsung LN46B750 46-Inch 1080p 240Hz LCD HDTV with Charcoal Grey Touch of Color

This 46-inch HDTV comes with everything you've been dreaming about. 150,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio takes picture quality to a higher level and Auto Motion Plus 240Hz delivers action scenes that are smooth, crisp, and realistic. Add to that full 1080p resolution which creates picture perfect images--from bold colors to sharp details. Plus Medi@2.0 changes the way you watch TV by allowing you to access content from Yahoo! and Flickr. Turn your high-definition dreams into reality with the LN46B750 HDTV.

This is the first TV I've ever purchased and it's a great buy. I was hoping to read some professional reviews before I bought this, but with the Amazon $300 coupon being a limited time offer and my 6x points (basically a 6% cash back) on my Amazon card ending at the end of this month, I had to take advantage of this opportunity now. I think I made a good choice. Up until I got this TV, I've been using a Dell 24" 2405FPW LCD monitor (really a Samsung screen that still gets more positive reviews than new cheaper 24" Dell LCD monitors).

I don't want/need to repeat most of the positive comments other reviewers have already mentioned, so I'll talk about topics not well covered.

240 Hz Auto Motion Plus: The default setting is "standard." I don't have regular TV, so I connected my PS3 and popped in my Iron Man Blu-Ray disc. I quickly noticed the high quality resolution of my HDTV, but after some moments, I realize how the movie had a TV soap opera look and how some things just didn't seem right. The lighting was more sterile and bright instead of dramatic and when there was a scene where the camera moved, it felt like I was watching a 4:3 formatted pan & scan movie instead of a modern wide-screen movie. After checking out the TV settings (not having a paper manual was a little annoying, but quite a bit of paper was saved, since the PDF version is about 290 pages due to the multi-language versions), I realize that it's the 240Hz AMP that was making my movie experience more TV-like. I tried all the different preset AMP settings (i.e., Off; Clear; Standard; Smooth; Demo, which shows AMP off next to AMP on at the same time), I came to find that I like the "Clear" setting, which is the minimum setting with 240Hz on, the most. The lighting then looked like what I remember from the theater and the scenes still seem smooth and clear. AMP not only gives the appearance of more frames/second, but also more clarity. You'll notice a big difference when you take the time to watch the same scene over and over again with different settings. My guess is that it will probably work best with TV shows that have fast moving scenes and bright lighting like sports programs.

Computer Files: This feature is so cool. Video files which were originally computer-only can now be watched on my TV without any additional hardware. I think this TV can play more versions of MPEG and DIVX than my PS3 can (it says it in the Samsung manual, but I didn't do a side-by-side comparison). I can take an AVI file from my computer, copy it to a USB compact flash disk, then plug it into my HDTV and watch it in the full 46" glory. The remote offers some simple fast forward and rewind capability (the longer you hold down the buttons, the greater it moves forward and backward, respectively) and rewinding doesn't jump as smoothly as forwarding, but it's bearable.

Ethernet Connection: My FiOS modem/router is in my bedroom and my HDTV is in the living room. I couldn't test it, but considering that the wireless module for the Samsung TV is $80, I think I'm going to relocate my router. I wonder if there's a cheaper workaround or if the Samsung USB WiFi module is proprietary.

Remote Control: It is a long controller which makes it a little uncomfortable to use without sliding your hand to reach some buttons and it has an unconventional wing at the bottom of the controller that's there for weight balance. It also feels fragile because it looks shiny and lightweight. More negatives is that the buttons require me to either push them down at a different angle or just with more force. I hope that once I use the controller a little more, the buttons will be more sensitive. Right now, some of the buttons take me two or three times before they register because I am apparently not doing it right.

Delivery Service: I got the usual call about setting up my delivery date and time. They gave me a 4 hour delivery window and the 2 guys came around the end of the first hour, so it wasn't a long wait. There was something on the form I signed about a blue screen test, but they didn't test that for me (maybe it works only with TV reception?) and I didn't see it when I skimmed through the manual either. Basically, they physically set it up, turned it on, and tested some menu options. Not a very scientific test, but I guess they completed their tasks. They didn't stick around to get tipped either. I did stop them to hand them one though.

Ultra Clear Panel: I don't know why the Samsung.com website says that it doesn't have an UCP when it obviously does. The reflection is quite strong and I have very good daylighting in my living room from the windows, so the reflection can be annoying. However, the good viewing angle comes in handy, so I just sit at an angle from the screen (probably 20 degrees), and the reflection from my window goes away. I don't notice any drop in contrast or color quality, so it's not that big of a deal. Also, if you compare this to some of the reflection problems from older CRTs, it seems about the same. The big difference is that there may appear to be more reflection problems b/c this screen is just a lot bigger than most CRTs.

Overall, I am happy with my HDTV. I was very tempted to buy the 52" version, but with the 30% premium over the 46" (currently, the 52" costs 21% more with the most recent limited-time coupon), I rather save the money for when I get a bigger apartment and when 60+" screens are in the best value range.

7/05/2009

Panasonic VIERA G10 Series TC-P42G10 42-Inch 1080p Plasma HDTV...

Technical Details

* 42-inch plasma flatscreen HDTV with full 1080p HD resolution
* Enjoy online content like Amazon Video On Demand, YouTube videos, Picasa Web Albums, stock information
* Share your digital photos and AVCHD camcorder videos on the big screen using VIERA Image Viewer
* Three HDMI inputs and a wealth of additional connectivity options
* THX-certified for faithful movie image reproduction

I have just received my new 42 inch G10 in the mail, and I must say, I am very pleased. I researched the living crap out of this set, so my expectations were pretty high. Upon opening the box my first impression was that the overall look of the TV is amazing. Just a solid design, without a whole lot of extraneous stuff. After removing all the stickers it really looks nice in my living room. Also pleased to notice the only light on this TV is a very small dim red light when it is on (I can't stand bright lights on my electronics).

Once I turned it on and started messing around with the settings, I was pleased at how smooth, and natural all the menus are. Very easy to understand, but there is plenty of advanced control for the more hightech custy. Personally I like to tweak my settings, and the Panasonic remembers each input and preset, so its pretty painless. I found THX to have the most accurate colors, although I did tweak the settings a bit for a little more light. Custom allows you to get a very decent preset for TV viewing or daytime viewing in my case. Some say you can actually achieve a better picture through custom than through THX, but in my opinion THX was very good looking when watching a DVD.

Most noteworthy are the blacks. Simply stunning. I haven't seen anything quite like it. I usually say Film is the best viewing experience, and I still do, but these Plasmas really put off that soft color that is very easy on the eyes (unlike LCDs). So far I haven't seen any noise, or jaggies which is good. While gaming I noticed a slight (very slight) yellowish trail when following a white dot across a black screen. This is pretty minimal, but its there. However scrolling text showing no trailing.

24P doesn't work as well as it could, which is to me the biggest draw back. There is flicker, causing it to be pretty much unwatchable unless you pump up the refresh rate.

This is a stunning television, that I hope will last for many years to come. Anyone considering it, should feel comfortable knowing that it really lives up to the hype. Check out the Cnet review for yourself. They have all the geeky details. But from a common customer (although I work in the video field), I can honestly say this TV is top of the line. Probably one of the best Plasmas out there.

Samsung LN46B650 46-Inch 1080p 120Hz LCD HDTV with Red Touch of Color...

With the Samsung 46-inch LN46B650 HDTV, you're investing in a high-quality LCD TV that offers top-of-the-line picture quality with 1080p high definition resolution. Enjoy the sharpest details and vivid color with a 100,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio for more realistic images and Samsung's Wide Color Enhancer 3 technology for a more natural rendering of colors. It also incorporates a number of innovative features to reduce the motion blur and image judder, which traditionally plague LCD HDTVs when displaying fast movement. This B650 series HDTV combines an ultra-fast 4ms (millisecond) response time with Samsung's Auto Motion Plus frame interpolation technology, which utilizes a 120Hz refresh rate helps ensure crisp, easy viewing of sports, video games and movies.



The stylish Samsung LN46B650 1080p HDTV with innovative Touch of Color design.
The LN46B650 features Samsung's new Internet@TV online content service. Developed with Yahoo!, Internet@TV uses either a wired or wireless Ethernet connection to access content onscreen from Yahoo!, Flickr, YouTube and more with the push of a button. The widget-based interface and scrollbar run along the bottom of the screen for easy browsing of the latest programs and content. This B650 model also includes a 2 GB flash memory with pre-loaded entertainment features that can be updated by downloading content from Samsung's web site via the Ethernet connection

You get superb connectivity and networking with 2 USB ports--for playing MP3 audio and displaying JPEG/MPEG files--and four HDMI 1.3 ports, and it also bumps up the sound with 15-watt bottom stereo speaker and an integrated subwoofer. This HDTV is accented by Samsung's TOC (Touch of Color) bezel design, which offers a hint of red translucent color around the edges of the unit for a uniquely fashionable look. Plus, it's Energy Star compliant, which helps you be green while saving on your electric bill.

There are lots of in-depth reviews of this TV on the web, so I won't go in to too much detail here. I will say that the picture quality is awesome on this model, and that I'm very happy with my purchase. The red touch of color isn't too obvious (I still wish Samsung would abandon the TOC though). The swivel base is nice, too.

The "auto-motion plus" (AMP) feature is improved over the 2008 model by allowing you to fine-tune the settings more. AMP is the technology that fills in extra frames (120Hz) so video doesn't look so "jerky". Owners of the 2008 model sometimes had complaints that they could not adjust the AMP setting enough to their liking. The 2009 model allows greater customization.

"Game mode" helps eliminate the lag when playing games. Once I turned this mode on, there was no lag when playing "Rock Band" and other games on the PS3.

I am using HDMI v1.3b cables that only cost a dollar from BargainCell. Images are awesome. Don't spend more than that for HDMI cables!!! Research the web or look at the reviews for HDMI cables on Amazon to find out why. You will not notice any difference in image quality no matter how expensive an HDMI cable is.

The sound on the TV is a little flat, and doesn't have much bass. But I am hooking my PS3 and DirecTV sound to an Onkyo receiver and Energy speakers (which sound great!), so it didn't matter to me.

Keep in mind that the 650 models (like this one) have a gloss panel. This causes reflections to show from windows and lights. If you're looking for the semi-matte screens that help cut down on this, you'll want to check out the 630 models.

My TV was shipped via Pilot freight services. They made a courtesy call to me stating that because of where I live, that one of their partners (a moving company) would be making the delivery. As a result, it tacked on a few extra days for the product to arrive, but it arrived in perfect condition and the moving company set up the TV and made sure it worked and that I was happy with it before they left.

All-in-all, I'm definitely pleased with this TV.