Sony KDL-42XBR950
By HT Staff February 25, 2004 — Feeling the pressure from Sharp and Samsung, Sony Electronics has introduced what it describes as "the world's largest integrated high-definition flat-panel LCD television."

The 42" KDL-42XBR950 features both DVI-HDTV input and ATSC/QAM tuner, for excellent images from any source, as well as several proprietary technologies claimed to elevate the viewing experience, such as "Digital Reality Creation," picture-and-picture - which allows viewing high-def and standard definition programs simultaneously - and CineMotion video processing to obtain the best results from film originals.

Sony's LCD panel driver LSI is claimed to minimize blurring of moving objects, a common problem with LCD panels. A wide viewing angle of 170 degrees is said to deliver full impact with minimal distortion. The KDL-42XBR950 also supports viewing of high-resolution digital photos via Memory Stick media.

The KDL-42XBR950 is part of a new line of Sony flat-panel products that include a high-def 32" LCD, the KDL-32XBR950, and a 50" plasma display, the KE-50XS910, also featuring Memory Stick playback, stereo speakers, and DVI-HDTV connection. All three new models sport the latest "WEGA Engine" digital processing system for superb contrast and sharpness. A "block noise smoother" reduces video noise from MPEG 2 compression used in 480p sources, such as DVD players and satellite receivers.

The KDL-42XBR950 and 32" KDL-32XBR950 LCD models were released in January. Retail prices are approximately $10,000 and $5,500, respectively.