Sony KV-36XBR200 36 inch TV

For those of you television junkies who are drooling for the best in picture, sound, and overall aesthetic appeal, look no further than the Sony WEGA. For years the SONY brand has stood for peak performance in electronics, whether it be it video or audio. Not only is it instant name brand recognition, it also delivers on all its promises for the best in video/audio presentation. And the WEGA line of Televisions doesn't disappoint.

A little history: when I was researching products for my new home, I went through the entire database of Televisions...from the low end Sharps to the high end Mitshubishi big screens, and of course the complete Sony line. I purposely eliminated the fantasy world of HDTV and the new plasma screens both for their high price tags, and also for their current unrealistic uses. For most of the masses, HDTV should not be an option, not only is the price tag high, but the content of HDTV is not worth the price tag. Who needs a couple of hours of viewing animals in their natural habitat on the nature channel? Its cheaper to get an aquarium. And the plasma TVs are simply out of the league of most people. Forget about the ad that Philips has...catchy tune though.

Initially I got the 50 in. Mitshibishi table top big screen. It had all the bells and whistles and is a great choice for those that can fit a big screen in their space, but it simply overwhelmed my entertainment center, so away it went. Then the search for a 36" tube began.

After looking at the sheer quality, the WEGA could not be dismissed. Sure you can save a few dollars (ok..maybe a few hundred dollars) by going with a Sharp or a Admiral..but why? Even the Sony Trinitron line had great choices, but when you looked at the entire package, the WEGA was a top choice.

First the video content. The 36" flat screen is a window to any thing you are watching. No matter how far or at what viewing angle, the picture remained sharp, clear and the color was exceptional. Combined with a digital signal, either from satellite or digital cable broadcasts, the WEGA rivals HDTV clarity. It comes with a few nifty pre-set specs that adjust video to the programming content, i.e. sports, movies, etc. but programming your individual specs is done simply through the navigational remote, (explained in a bit).

Then the audio content. I knew the video was going to be exceptional, but the real surprise was the audio features of the WEGA. Originally I was planning to purchase additional speakers and a receiver, but after hearing the WEGA at home, I put the checkbook away. The WEGA comes with three enhanced sound modes, much like a receiver: Simulated Surround, Enhanced Dolby Pro Logic, and Effects off. Using the Simulated makes for a concert hall feel which is great for sports; the Enhanced Dolby is superb for movies and television broadcasts supporting Dolby Pro Logic and Effects Off is amazing for normal viewing. Combined with my Sony DVD530 (reviewed in DVD) there was simply no need for anything else. The bass is thunderous, although an additional subwoofer would help), and all the other effects give it a real movie theatre feel...just add the popcorn.

The intangibles: The set just is a piece of art. Its design of a silver-chrome body with built in speakers and crisp straight-edged frame, give it polished, techie look ready for the Y2K and beyond. Looks terrific by itself or housed in Entertainment Centers. Just be careful to measure your available space if the WEGA is going to be housed in a entertainment center because most only allow sets up to 35". The only draw back to its powerhouse physique is that the set weighs quite a bit. It took three people to correctly lift it and set it in place. The remote is also intuitive, has buttons for all menu options, a separate button for audio features and can easily be programmed to control DVD, VCR or other peripherals. Plus it has so many other features which would take a few hours to list. Go to the Sony site and check those out.

Where to buy: I purchased at the Good Guys because of a contact. But its best to check the ads for places like Good Guys, Best Buy, or other established reputable electronic retail outlets that offer service programs.

The final words: If you are in the market for a $1500 - $2500 television, make no other choice than the Sony WEGA series.