Sony KP-53V85 53 in. TV
 

User ReviewRead All Reviews »

2

Big Screen. Big Value.

Pros Picture, lots of inputs, solid sound system.
Cons Perhaps to big for some living rooms.
Recommended it? Yes
Being my first experience with Rear Projection, I was not sure what I was getting in to. I have long been a big fan of Sony TV's, and have been watching Trinitrons for a long time.

Recently, we found our direct view TV just wasn't cutting with DVDs, especially with the 'big' sound on newer movies. I looked very hard at the Wega series, but found that the cost wasn't justified by the small increase in viewing area, though the picture was fantastic. I also cringed at the weight of the 36' Wega, not something you can just pick up and move around when you like. So I decided to consider a R/P TV. At first, I was drawn to the HDTV displays, but quickly retreated after going into sticker shock.

Like many people, I had pre-conceived notions that the picture would be sub-par on R/Ps, and not really viewable unless sitting in the 'sweet spot'. One look at the KP53V85 quickly changed my mind.

To start, I was surprised by how Bright and sharp the picture was! On par with my previous Direct View tv.

This TV is LOADED with features. 5 video inputs (4 on the back, 1 up front) including 3 s-video/composite inputs & 2 component inputs. A built in 'glass like' Contrast Screen gives the TV a richer picture & better blacks. When compared to the similar S-Series without the contrast screen, there is a significant difference. The TV also has speaker inputs for Center Channel. At the flick of a menu item, you can switch the internal speakers to be powered off your Amp's center channel output (up to 80 watts).

The twin tuner system produces an amazing picture off of your cable feed (much better than the decoder box), and does all kinds of things such as Split Screen, 3 size PIP, 12 channel preview, Freeze Frame, etc etc.

Of course, the on-screen graphical menus are straight forward and easy to use, and the supplied joystick remote makes navigation a snap. One feature that I find particularly good is the ability to 'skip' unused video inputs, which can be labeled according to the connected device.

Another feature Sony has integrated is the Flash Focus system. This 10 second adjustment is done at the press of a button, and focuses the lens of the TV automatically. I have noticed that as the TV breaks in, a quick re-focus has been necessary.

Picture quality is amazing, considering the size, especially when running off a DVD player with good quality cables through the component inputs. To get a good even picture, you should sit at least 8 to 10 feet back from the set, and of course must be sitting.

And one of the best parts, this TV does not weigh as much as your car, and has wheels. A definite bonus when hooking everything up.

I wouldn't hesitate in recommending this TV to anyone who has the room to enjoy it, looking for a great quality picture, for a good price.

Copyright © 2000-2012 Shopping.com

http://img.shoppingshadow.com/jfe/JavaFrontEnd-fe118.rtb14.p1-8321
http://img.shopping.com/jfe/JavaFrontEnd-fe118.rtb14.p1-8321