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Sony KDL-26S2010 Review |
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Notes
The 'S' in Sony's KDL-26S2010 indicates that it is an entry level series of Bravia LCD TVs. As such it does not have Wide Colour Gamut (WCG) Technology available in the rest of the Bravia range.
For a more detailed look at the differences between the various Bravia models see Bravia Series Information
Design
This is the only Sony Bravia whose looks fail to inspire. Although the unit is sturdy enough, the feel is a little plastic. The cliched silver colour scheme just doesn't seem to have the effect of larger models.
Features
Just one HDMI jack is a disappointment and means that if you're going to add two or more HDMI-based sources such as sky and xbox360 a switching box will be required. There are only two scarts, but thankfully they are both RGB.
Screen size & shape: 26in 16:9 Tuner: Digital Sound system: Stereo Resolution: 1366x768 HD Ready: Yes Contrast Ratio: 1300:1 Brightness: 450cd/m2 OTHER FEATURES: Bravia Engine, SPVA panel for 178 degree viewing, 7-day EPG support, CAM slot for subscription services. SOCKETS: 1 HDMI input, 2 scarts, composite video input, S-video input, PC input, RF jack, CAM slot, stereo audio inputs/outputs.
On the positive side, the KDL-26S2010 has a D-sub PC socket and a CAM slot for subscription channels through the built-in digital tuner.
The Wide Colour Gamut (WCG) Technology may not be included, but this just shows how good the 'built for LCD' Bravia Engine is. It has catapulted Sony into the forefront of LCD screen technology with full digital image scaling, multiple noise reduction routines and advanced colour processing to name but a few.
The other key feature of the KDL-26S2010 is Super Vertical Pattern Alignment (SPVA), designed to allow much greater picture integrity over a wider viewing angle.
Along with the majority of other Sony LCDs, the KDL-26S2010 includes 7-day Electronic Programming Guide (EPG) support and a 12-event timer memory.
On-screen menus include MPEG noise reduction, facilities for adjusting white and gamma settings and black level correcting tools.
Performance
For a screen which lacks so many of its bigger brother's attributes, the KDL-26S2010 performs well. Pictures are outstandingly sharp with detailed scenes being exceptionally clear. Noise reduction is a feature of all Bravia models, and the 26S2010 is no exception.
Black levels are good, but not to the exceptional levels of other Bravia models with greyscaling subtle enough to give depth to dark scenes.
Pictures on the 26S2010 are probably its most disappointing feature, which is not as sharp and textured as its bigger brothers, with a noticeable smearing over moving objects at times.
Sound is ok, with good volume and with an open mid-range and rounded trebles, but seems a disappointment compared alongside picture performance. A lack of bass is the main complaint.
In conclusion, the KDL-26S2010 fails to impress at the level of higher spec Bravia models, but it is still an impressive performer, and one well worth considering.
