Sony KDL-52XBR9 LCD 52"
The Sony KDL-52XBR9 has a lot to offer for a 52 inch LCD TV. Its colors are quite rich and true and the all important blacks are on the mid range for LCD TVs. This LCD TV is also packed with internet apps for a little extra fun when there is nothing on TV. This is a fun TV for users who are enthusiastic about web based programming. The only notable drawback of the KDL-52XBR9 is its rather high price. At 52-inches, measured diagonally, it’s more expensive than some top rated 55-inch sets. Nonetheless, the performance will be worth the additional investment for many consumers.
Features:
Sony’s XBR series HDTVs are among the best of their LCD TVs. They are about mid range when talking LCD TVs that employ CCFL (Cold Cathode Fluorescent Light) technology to illuminate the pixels. To do any better in lighting you have to make the jump to LED backlit sets which come at a notably higher price or choose a Plasma TV which can produce even sharper pictures but, due to the possibility of image burn in, present some special issues, especially for sports fans and gamers. In addition to the 52-inch model that’s specifically addressed in this review, Sony XBR9 series TVs also come in 46- and 40-inch versions which are identical with the notable exception of the screen size.
The KDL-52XBR9 offers quite a few options when connected to the internet, over twenty free and premium web options are available. They include Amazon Video On Demand which allows for downloading movies on a rental or purchase basis. Sony Music and Sony Pictures are also accessible. Free offerings include YouTube, Sports Illustrated, Slacker and Epicurious.com.
Further interactive features include the TV Guide Program Guide and Yahoo Widgets which are rebranded as BRAVIA Widgets. They’re little programs that provide access to content such as news, weather and stock reports and can be positioned and sized according to individual preferences. When connected to a home network, content from any networked computer can also be displayed on the big screen.
Display:
The primary reason for buying any high definition TV is superior image quality. The display found on the Sony KDL-52XBR9 features full HD 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution (1080p) in the standard 16:9 widescreen ratio. It presents almost true colors and does a good job of producing the bright whites and blackest blacks. Some of the higher ends TVs such as the LG 55LD650 or the Samsung LN55C650 do a slightly better job in this area. Sony’s Live Color Creation technology does however provide Wide Color Gamut CCFL backlighting to enhance greens and reds enhancing overall color quality.
The set also features the BRAVIA Engine 3 digital processor which reduces video noise, or interference, and sharpens image details. The 240Hz refresh rate that Sony calls Motionflow is a welcome surprise for a mid range LCD TV. It’s particularly important in producing smooth, natural looking movement while significantly reducing motion blur, particularly in fast action sequences that are typical of sport, adventure movies and video games.
Connections:There are seven distinct HD connection interfaces including 4 versatile and user friendly HDMI slots. They permit the easiest and highest quality connection for Blu-ray players and gaming consoles as well as other HDMI equipped components and provide up to 1080p/60p reproduction, the best currently available. Three of the four HDMI interfaces are located facing the side of the back panel rather than its back. That facilitates access without moving the TV but it could be a bit trying when it comes to concealing cables. Fortunately, the side of the panel is far enough from the perimeter of the screen that, with judicious use of cable ties, this shouldn’t be a problem. The side panel also has a USB port, S-Video and composite inputs and an input for PCs.
Help & Support:
Probably the biggest reason Sony does so well when it comes to electronics is due to the fact that they know how to help their customers. With just about any type of help and support you could ask for, Sony truly delivers in this area.
Summary:
The Sony KDL-52XBR9 is a standard performer among LCD TVs. It falls short of the standards set by Plasma TVs, particularly with regard to extreme black levels, but does a good overall job. For users who like interactive content, this TV is about as good as it gets. This is a decent LCD TV and is worth a second look for consumers interested in an 52 inch LCD TV rather than the 55 inch TVs on our site.