32in LCD TV Picture Sound Features Usability Value It may not have the impressive speck of higher end Bravia models but the LCD specific technology still delivers top notch picture performance. Overall 1,366 x 768 pixels HD Ready

Notes

The 'S' in Sony's KDL-32S2010 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

As with all Sony LCD TVs the design is understated, but the quality of finish makes it an extremely stylish piece of kit. Matt black finish with a silver trim combine to add a touch of chic to the living room.

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.

	Details Screen size & shape: 32in 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-32S2010 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-32S2010 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-32S2010 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-32S2010 is a remarkable performer. Pictures are outstandingly sharp with detailed scenes being exceptionally clear. This is true for High Definition, but in particular for Standard Definition source (which after all, is what most of us will be watching most of the time for the foreseeable future)

Black levels are very good, and the greyscaling is subtle enough to give depth to dark scenes.

Colour reproduction however has to be the outstanding feature of the KDL32S2010. The sheer range of colours available is the most notable feature of this screen, with a richness and quality of tone that is simply second to none for a screen of this price.

The Sony KDL-32S2010 handles motion well, but a slight criticism in that there are traces of noise with digital feeds.

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-32S2010 will be a little more expensive than your average 32in LCD, but the overall performance is a little better than all but the high end screens in this class. For the money conscious, this Bravia delivers much of the performance of top end models at a much reduced price.