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Sony KDL-32V2500 Review |
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Reviewed: 15 February 2007
Notes
The 'V' in Sony's KDL-32V2500 indicates that it is one step above the entry level 'S' series of Bravia LCD TVs. As such it gains something called Wide Colour Gamut (WCG) Technology, but unlike the 'W' and 'X' series does not have full HD 1,920 x 1,080 resolution or the advanced EX Bravia engine of the top end 'X' series.
For a more detailed look at the differences between the various Bravia models see Bravia Series Information
The KDL32V2500 differs from its younger brother the KDL32V2000 in that it has an extra HDMI connection.
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. Slimmer than most LCDs the 32V2500 is not as conspicuous an addition to a living space as you would imagine.
Features
The addition of an extra HDMi connection (the 32V2000 only has one) will save much heartache when consumers inevitably expand their collection of peripherals. There are only two scarts, but thankfully they are both RGB.
Screen size & shape: 32in 16:9 Tuner: Digital Sound system: Stereo Resolution: 1366x768 HD Ready: Yes Contrast Ratio: 1200:1 Brightness: 450cd/m2 OTHER FEATURES: Bravia Engine, WCG lighting, SPVA panel for 178 degree viewing, 7-day EPG support, CAM slot for subscription services. SOCKETS: 2 HDMI input, 2 scarts, composite video input, S-video input, PC input, RF jack, CAM slot, stereo audio inputs/outputs.
The 32V2500 also has a D-sub PC socket and a Common Interface (CI) slot for subscription channels through the built-in digital tuner.
The Wide Colour Gamut (WCG) Technology mentioned in 'notes' above adds a revolutionary back-light system which Sony claims to add 127% more PAL EBU colour range designed to enhance LCDs traditionally poor red and green reproduction. Also as mentioned, the 'V' series does not include the most advanced EX Bravia engine, but it does include the standard Bravia engine which has performed admirably in all Sony's latest lcd models.
It is worth mentioning that this Bravia technology has been designed from the ground up for Sony's LCD TVs and it shows, with no compromises for other flat panel technologies.
The other key feature of the 32V2500 is Super Vertical Pattern Alignment (SPVA), designed to allow much greater picture integrity over a wider viewing angle.
Performance
The new array of technologies that Sony is introducing across the Bravia range certainly sounds impressive, but how do they perform?
The answer is that they perform very well, at least within the 32V2500. Sharpness and detail with High Definition sources is nothing short of remarkable. The dramatic impact is astounding, and a blight of previous Sony LCD models, greyish looking black levels has been almost completely eradicated.
Colour reproduction however has to be the outstanding feature of the 32V2500. 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.
The Sony's performance also extends to standard definition sources producing a clean picture full of detail, sharpness and impressive colour tone.
WCG technology works, and allows you to watch the screen without a deterioration in performance from a much wider angle than most LCD screens.
The KDL32V2500's performance is enhanced by an impressive sound system with powerful bass which does not suffer from any harshness at higher sound levels.
Perhaps the one criticism is that the KDL-32V2500 suffers a little from a slight orange tint to its reds, but this really is a miner criticism.
Conclusion
The Sony KDL32V2500 is certainly one of the finest LCDs on the market at the moment. It now has better connectivity with an extra HDMI connection. Added to the mix is a high level of usability which makes this LCD a must have screen, if you can stretch to the quite hefty outlay.
