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Sony KDL-32XBR9 : Review

Posted to Televisions 2009-11-27

The Sony KDL-32XBR9 is a 32 inch 1080p LCD HDTV. The unit features a 120Hz refresh rate, a dynamic contrast ratio of 40,000:1 and a 16:9 1080p full HD format screen. The unit has 7 HD inputs, including 4 HDMI 1.3a inputs, an HD component input and 2 HD combo inputs.

Additional features include a USB input for viewing photos and listening to MP3s and BRAVIA Link compatibility, which allows you to control multiple BRAVIA devices with one remote. The unit also exceeds Energy Star 3.0 requirements and offers 24p True Cinema, which allows playback of movies at their intended 24fps frame rate. The mounting holes for this unit are VESA compatible, for wall mounting using VISA compliant brackets.

Rating:

3.6 out of 5

Features

The KDL-32XBR9 does well in the features category, with its full 1080p HD capability, multiple digital inputs, and 24p True Cinema Mode. The BRAVIA Link feature is nice if you have other Sony components, The unit also has a PC input, so it can be used as a VGA monitor. The USB port is a welcome feature, making it easy to view photos from a variety of devices. And the 40,000:1 contrast ratio makes for more detail in scenes with dark and light areas. No network support is provided.

Performance

The KDL-32XBR9 delivers very good performance. The display is bright for an LCD unit, and can be viewed under most lighting conditions. The widescreen format gives a theater-like experience and the full 1080p HD resolution produces excellent images. The BRAVIA Link function makes controlling other Sony devices a snap and the 24p True Cinema renders movies as they were intended to be seen on the big screen. And the ability to view images in full HD is an added bonus.

Summary

If you're in the market for a medium screen LCD HDTV, the KDL-32XBR9 definitely deserves a look. It's reasonably priced compared to the competition and the performance is above average. Although it lacks network support, overall it also has above average features. So whether you need a standalone medium screen HDTV or you're building a medium home theater system, be sure and put this one on your short list of sets to look at.

Pros

32 inch 16:9 format display
40,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio
Built-in USB support
BRAVIA Link capability

Cons

Lacks network