Sony KDL-52X2000

Unbeatable Editor Review


There are some things that are just better big, but LCDs up until now just haven’t been one of them. LCD TVs have stayed on the small side up until just recently; and now Sony have hit the market with the massive 52” Bravia KDL-52X2000. We grabbed a look at the largest and newest addition to the Sony’s X-series in all its HD-readiness at the Best of Stuff Show 2006.

Design

The guys at Sony describe the 52X2000’s design as timeless, but we completely disagree. In our opinion, the imitation glass surround and silver frame gives the TV a contemporary look that will soon tumble off the catwalk of electronics. All controls are hidden away nicely and connectivity is featured mainly around the lower rear area. The bezel table-top stand comes as standard in silver, but optional colours include black, red, white, brown and blue are available. We like how you get to see the whole 52-inches of non-reflective screen that you’ve paid for, and that it isn’t half hidden behind the screen.
Setup/Installation
Having only seen the 52X2000 at the Best of Stuff Show, we didn’t have the chance to set it up ourselves. We did ask the technical guys there if it was easy and he said that it has an identical set-up menu as the 40W2000U, which we have done, so we know it’s nice and easy. All you’ll need to do is plug and play, choose auto-setup and you’re watching over 100 channels before you know it.
Features
Bravia models are guaranteed to provide a good picture performance thanks to possessing the latest and greatest technology. So, starting with our favourites, the 52X2000 has the Bravia Engine Ex for high performance picture quality, and Live colour creation, providing you with an easel of bold and colourful colours. The LCD panel is back lit by a WCG-CCFL light, providing you with a superb luminous screen. You are also guaranteed a good picture no matter what the light is like in the room, as this LCD has a light-sensor which adapts the amount of light emitted by the TV so as not to strain your eyes. The 52X2000 boasts a massive 1920 x 1080 resolution and 7000:1 dynamic contrast ratio too. Once these processors kick in you’ll be glad that the 178 degree viewing angle gives you the perfect view from almost anywhere in your lounge. Inbuilt analogue and digital tuners will provide you with viewing of over 100 channels. To keep your electricity bill down, Sony have provided the 52X2000 with a power saving and picture off modes for when people have stopped watching. This LCD features Picture-in-Picture, so you can freeze those more special scenes – but just don’t get caught out by the Mrs. And there’s no chance of missing your favourite sitcoms, with an 7-day electronic programme guide, you can book yourself out every night. Sonically, the 52X2000 is laughing. With NIcam stereo, digital audio amplifier, Dolby Virtual Pro Logic II, and BBE Digital Technology, it almost guarantees that you won’t be complaining.
Performance
In all its HD glory – the 52X2000 is absolutely superb. The guys at Sony had set it up with a Blu-ray HD player, to really show off what it was capable of. The most noticeable feature is that all 52-inches are plastered with a superb quality picture. Some of the best picture clarity we’ve seen by far, except the 40W2000 of course. Colours are ultimately realistic, and provide the picture with a great feel. Even amongst all the crowds at the show, we could hear the sound well, with crisp clear dialogue and full of bass audio. Unfortunately we couldn’t check out the SD performance, but as soon as we get it in to test it out for ourselves we’ll update you.
Overall Opinion
If David Beckham is golden balls then the Sony KDL-52X200 - is golden buttons. It offered a truly magnificent picture performance, which was reinforced by equally as great sound. If you can afford an incredible amount for an incredible LCD - get this one.
By Lisa Malyon
Pros
+ Excellent connectivity
+ Superb Game Mode
+ High quality picture performance
+ Unusual design