13
Jan
2012
Gizmodo: The televisions that are going to be invading our living rooms in 2012, the ones that Samsung and LG and the rest have been trotting out this week at CES? They’re the most exciting gadgets of the year, and not because of any apps or gimmicks or third dimensions being shoved down our throats. In fact, they’re wonderful in spite of all that. (more…)
04
Nov
2011
Pocket-Lint: Sony has just posted its Q2 earnings report and it doesn’t look great as the the electronics multinational blames the Thai floods, a rising Yen and poor sales of TVs and PCs. (more…)
09
Sep
2011
Engadget: Challenging Sony’s PlayStation 3D display, LG’s new LW980T “Dual Play” TV lets Xbox users see two different views on the same screen — ditching the standard split gaming view. Spotted this week at IFA, the technology requires a pair of snazzy all-right / all-left passive specs and a compatible 3D Xbox game to get two different 2D perspectives on one TV. (more…)
25
Aug
2011
Akihabaranews: Good lord! I have to admit that it has been a while since I haven’t been amazed by a TV, and truth to be told I wonder why no one has introduced such TV before!
Ladies and gentlemen, behold Sharp AQUOS F5 Series, a new generation of LED backlights TV that comes with a completely redesigned architecture that now comes in an ultra simple package of just five layers if you include the TV bezel! (more…)
24
Aug
2011
Techdigest: Have more money than you know what to do with and are looking for a TV straight out of an episode of The Jetsons? Then we’ve got just the telly – the Bang & Olufsen the BeoVision 7-55.
Adding a built-in Blu-ray player and active 3D to the 55 inch flagship model, the BeoVision 7-55 gets added “wow-factor” points for its motorised stand which lifts and lowers the massive panel, as well as hiding a built-in surround sound technology that adapts and tunes its sound dependant on the acoustics of your living room. (more…)
25
Jul
2011
Engadget: LG is apparently tired of this tiny OLED stuff. 15-inch TVs and 4-inch cellphones? What is this, 2009? The company has decided it’s time to super-size the organically-powered panels and plans to introduce a 55-inch HDTV in mid 2012. We’ve got faith it can deliver too — last summer the Korean manufacturer was showing off a 31-inch model (above) and it sounds like it’s shifting focus completely towards larger sizes. CEO Kwon Young-soo has said that IPS technology is much better suited for the mobile space. Of course, LG has promised impressively-sized panels before and, even if such a set does make it to market, chances are you’ll have to take out a second mortgage to afford one.
06
Apr
2011
Engadget: Toshiba’s focus at CES was glasses free 3D displays, but it highlighted more conventional HDTVs today at an event in Rome. Its new TVs and laptops all tie in to Toshiba Places, which sorts out access to different types of apps for video, social networking, music and other areas and is ready to launch this month. Separating Toshiba from the competition is a slew of new technology and the top of the line 55ZL1 model checks all the boxes: Seven core CEVO CPU for image processing, a Pro-LED512 panel that is the world’s first with 512 zones of dimming among 3,072 LEDs, Personal-TV facial recognition that picks up on which user is watching then personalizes to their preferred settings and active shutter 3D glasses.
The edge lit LED VL863 series will come in 47- and 42-inch versions featuring LG’s FPR passive glasses 3D and four pairs of glasses, while the 32- through 46-inch UL863 drops 3D for built-in WiFi and Personal-TV. The SL863 series is the final step down, nixing built-in WiFi. Prices weren’t listed but the new models should be shipping soon, until then you can find more details in the press releases linked below — no word on the US-bound models yet.
01
Oct
2010
Born Rich: Setting-up a home theater room demands both money and knowledge. Unless you want a themed home theater room like some of the opulent home theaters we have earlier told you about, you won’t need anything beyond the Bose 46-Inch “VideoWave“ LCD TV that comes with 16 built-in speakers for the cinematic surround sound experience. The company is touting the innovative VideoWave 46″ backlit LCD as its most advanced product ever, the result of 10 years of research. The TV set uses “Phaseguide” technology, which makes it possible to link seven of those 16 speakers with a single, nanosecond timing system, which alternates the sound from each speaker for an omnidirectional sound effect.
In addition to the built-in 16 speakers, there are six compact subwoofers in a magnesium chassis, inside the TV which are placed facing each other, so that all the mechanical vibration cancels out for a rich bass. What makes handling this compact home theater in a simpler way is a universal remote that allows any device connected to the TV to be controlled via a simple onscreen interface. The VideoWave will retail for $5349 starting October 14th, exclusively at Bose stores only.
10
Sep
2010
TG Daily: Although it seems like everyone is calling it the next big thing, the majority of consumers are not that excited about 3D TV, and according to one study’s results, interest in the technology actually goes down after users give it a test run.
Nielsen conducted the study to see just how interested American consumers are in the new 3D TV market. It found that around 25% of “active TV shoppers” had some interest in buying a set. However, once they tried it out, that number plummeted to just 12%.
So why the extreme lack of excitement about the new technology? Well, blame it on the young people’s multitasking mindset. 89% said they became disillusioned by 3D TV because it is pretty much impossible to do anything else while watching. If you’re watching a 3D broadcast and commercials come on, you have to take off your glasses if you want to start texting or browsing the Internet. You have to be totally engaged to watch 3D content, which is fine at the movies, but apparently a big turn-off at home.
Around half of those surveyed also expressed disinterest about the requirement of wearing 3D glasses.
TV manufacturers and content providers are still bullish on the 3D market, though. It’s just becoming a stronger challenge. The trick now is to provide content that is so compelling, users won’t even want to do anything else while they’re experiencing it. 3D gaming will be a big part of qualming those fears.
All in all, though, those numbers are abysmal compared to the early excitement about the transition from standard definition to high definition. 3D adoption is going to be much more difficult.
25
Jun
2010
Engadget: When it comes to TV reviews, we have to give a nod to CNet and its David Katzmaier for being one of the best around; so when he says it is the best TV he’s ever tested, we officially want one. The new Panasonic VT25 line didn’t rule every category though, and of course there are concerns that the black levels will prematurely degrade like last year’s — CNet intends to continuously test the VT25 to keep Panasonic honest. Now we know you’re wondering about how it compares to the legendary Kuro and while it lit up the light meeter at a crazy low .004 ftl, the PRO-111FD Kuro is still the winner at .001 ftl — interestingly the similarly speced G20 line only managed .007 ftl. Whether this difference is noticeable at home is up for debate, but Kuro still reigns king as far as the light black meter is concerned. Also of note is the fact that while LED backlit LCDs can also get down real far on the meter, the inconsistency across the screen pretty much makes it a moot point. While we’re comparing to LCDs; according to CNet, the 55-inch Samsung C8000 costs about $35 less a year to operate than the 50-inch VT25, and while the anti-glare screen on the Panny is more effective at reducing reflections than the Samsung LCDs, it didn’t preserve the black levels as well. It was also discovered that the 96hz mode, unique to the VT25 line, produced flicker free motion with 24p content, which is a must have for movie buffs. And what about 3D? Well just like Consumer reports and many others, CNet agrees that the VT25 is the best 3DTV yet, and although it does show some signs of ghosting on 3D content, it is noticeably less than Samsung 3DTVs.
21
May
2010
12
May
2010
Cnet: 3D this, 3D that: anyone would think the whole world was 3D or something. However you feel about the third dimension being displayed on your telly, if you’re looking for a new TV — to watch the World Cup on, for instance — it makes sense to consider 3D-capable screens. You might not care about it now, but at some point in the future someone might come up with a compelling use for it.
There may not be any 3D coverage of the World Cup on either the BBC or ITV this year, but if you’re a Sky Sports subscriber, there’s going to be plenty of football for you to watch in 3D next season. Either way, all these TVs offer more than just 3D support, so you won’t miss out on great features just because your TV is one dimension up on its competitors.
LG
LG has adopted a unique attitude to 3D, in that it’s the only company that’s supporting both active and passive display technology. This might not mean much to you, but it’s useful to have a choice about what sort of TV and 3D glasses you want to use. Our 3D FAQ should help you decide which technology is best for you, if you’re in any doubt.
LG’s range is pretty impressive. There are two TVs from its Infinia LX990 range, one 47-incher and one 55-inch model. These are LG’s flagship models, with 400Hz picture mode and the now-ubiquitous Internet access, with YouTube video and access to Skype. You get two pairs of 3D glasses included too, which is fine if you’re just a couple, but not so good if you’ve got two 3D-hungry kids as well. Infinia TVs also feature full LED backlighting, which means you get the best possible contrast levels and local dimming to further improve colour and black performance.
Next up is the LX6900 range, which has another two TVs. The panels are 47 and 42 inches, and can display a 200Hz picture. You only get one pair of active 3D glasses included with these TVs though, which is going to make 3D viewing a very lonely experience until you shell out for more. The LX6900 TVs feature LED edgelighting, which means they’re super slim and have excellent black levels.
Both the LX990 and LX6900 ranges come with Freeview HD tuners too, which will give you access to HD World Cup matches, albeit in 2D. The 47LD950, on the other hand, has only a standard Freeview tuner, and is a standard LCD panel, with CCFL backlighting, where the other two ranges both feature some sort of LED illumination. That equates to slightly less impressive black levels, but will help keep the cost of these screens down. You also get four pairs of glasses with this TV, which is great for family use.
LG also has the LD950, which is a 47-inch passive 3D display. In this system, the TV is more expensive than traditional LCD panels, because an extra layer is fitted to the TV to make it work with cheaper passive glasses. If you’ve ever been to the cinema, and been allowed to keep your 3D glasses, you’ll have experienced passive 3D. This TV will suit football fans, because it has a resolution that matches Sky’s proposed 3D broadcasts. If, however, you want Full HD 3D, this isn’t the TV for you.
Sony
There are two choices with the Sony range of 3D TVs. You can either buy a set that’s 3D-ready but needs an additional glasses pack, or you can get a TV that comes with everything you need to start watching 3D — although video material is your responsibility.
If you want an all-inclusive package, the LX903 models are for you. You get Freeview HD included, along with built-in Wi-Fi access to Sony’s new online media service. Expect LoveFilm and BBC iPlayer on this soon — a real boon for Sony TVs, which have suffered from a lack of innovation in recent years. These TVs come with two screen sizes, either a modestly large 40 inches or a moderately gargantuan 60 inches. The smaller model is expected to cost around £2,000, with the 60-inch beast expected to set you back £3,500. The LX903 models come with one pair of 3D glasses each, with extra models costing £100 or so.
The HX range comes in four variations: two have 903 in their names and two have 803. The main difference is the 803 models are 100Hz, while the 903s are 200Hz. Both sub-ranges have Sony’s MotionFlow picture processing, and that claims a doubling of their native refresh rate to 200Hz and 400Hz respectively. The other key difference is that the 903-branded TVs are full LED backlit, whereas the 803 range features the slightly less contrast-capable edge lighting.
The HX903 models come in either 52- or 46-inch screen sizes, while the HX803 can be purchased with either a 40 or 46-inch screen. All of these TVs come with Freeview HD built-in and access to Sony’s aforementioned online video service.
Panasonic
With the simplest 3D range, Panasonic has just two 3D models, one with a 50-inch screen, the other a massive 65-inch model. The VT20 comes with two pairs of 3D glasses, so assuming you have a 3D source, such as Blu-ray or Sky 3D, you’ll be able to get started straight away.
Aside from their 3D credentials, the Panasonic TVs are the company’s high-end screens. You get a NeoPDP panel — Panasonic’s best and blackest to date. There’s also access to the VieraCast service, which allows you to watch YouTube video, share photos on Picasa and other online stuff. There’s also a THX mode, which allows you to get the best possible quality sound from movies. Panasonic promises its 600Hz mode will produce a full 1080p image, even for moving content — this is harder than you might think, and most TVs don’t manage it.
The 50-inch Panasonic 3D TV will cost you around £2,000, while the 65 goes for a much more ridiculous £5,000. Still, if you want a truly involving 3D experience, then you have to go for the biggest possible screen, and until 3D projectors arrive, this is the daddy.
Samsung
Samsung has taken a slightly different approach to 3D, in that it’s opting not to include 3D glasses with any of its TVs, badging them simply as ’3D ready’. If you want glasses — and if you want 3D, you’ll need them — be prepared to pay extra. Prices seem to vary wildly online, but each pair will cost between £50 and £100. A voucher system currently means you’ll get free glasses, but this is only a short-term offer — Samsung says it may start including glasses in the future.
In terms of the selection of models available, Samsung’s is probably the most impressive. It can claim to have the second-largest 3D TV on the market, with its 63-inch C7000. This plasma model features a Freeview HD tuner and Samsung’s clunkily named Internet@TV service, which will give you access to online video and widgets that can access Twitter, Facebook and the weather on your TV. If you want a slightly smaller plasma, the C7000 is also available in a 50-inch variant too.
Samsung’s C8000 series is its flagship line-up, with screen sizes of 40, 46 and 55 inches. The design of this range is intended to wow, with a funky brushed-metal look and slender, polished stand. Also included are Internet@TV and the ability to make calls with integrated Skype. An optional camera makes video calls possible too, and is available from the Skype online store.
The C8000 range features the ability to record TV shows to USB memory, which means you get a basic PVR included in the price. Don’t expect to be able to record one channel and watch another, but even so, this is a smart little addition to TVs, and one we’d love to see more of.
The LCD C7000 range is similar in specification to the plasma models we mentioned earlier. Available in 40, 46 and 55-inch sizes, you get the same Internet features as the other Samsung models. The LCDs in the C7000 range, unlike the plasmas, sadly don’t have Freeview HD access, which is sure to disappoint World Cup fans keen to see HD football. The finish is also a more modest brown, as opposed to the space-age, metallic sheen of the 8000 series.
The last TV in Samsung’s arsenal is the LE40C750. This model is identical to the C7000 range, just with a slightly more boring case. Seriously, that’s the only major difference we can discern after some time staring at the spec sheet.
Samsung is also the first company we’ve seen to offer a pair of 3D glasses aimed at children. Its kid-friendly, blue-framed pair are also rechargeable, which should mean you can plonk the little terrors down in front of a 3D movie without worrying about having to replace fiddly watch batteries, or worrying about them being swallowed. The adult versions aren’t rechargeable, and also aren’t blue-framed.
These ranges are bound to change over the next year, so we’ll try to keep you up to date. Expect full reviews of all these TVs as soon as is humanly possible, and in the meantime let us know in the comments section if you have any questions.
