KDL40D3000U Review: Sony Bravia 40" LCD TV

The world famous electronics manufacturer from Japan, Sony, recently added the D series LCD television to their award-winning line of Bravia range. Among the list of advanced technology implemented on this highly acclaimed flat screen TV are 1080p/24 acceptance (so that judder from NTSC and high-definition source can be minimised), Motion Flow™ (video processing that inserts frames to reduce motion blurring), and the SForce Front Surround sound system which is meant to create a surround sound environment. However, slightly disappointingly the resolution remains at 1366 x 768 and not the much revered 1920 x 1080 full high-definition resolution that has truly took off in the UK.

Pros

• Sony KDL40D3000U LCD television delivers respectable black level and revealing shadow detail, which goes against the rulebook on LCD TVs judging from past performances.
• Motion ghosting does reduce with the Motion Flow™ technology found on the Sony Bravia KDL40D3000U.
• Minimal digital noise and competent video & film deinterlacing on the KDL40D3000U amounts to a picture with little video artifacts even in standard definition.

Cons

• The overall colour may be a bit over-saturated because of the WCG (Wide Colour Gamut) found on the KDL40D3000U.
• To get the best picture, you'll need to access the service menu for greyscale calibration because the controls are not available in the normal user menu.
• As can be expected from Sony (being a premium brand and all), the price for KDL40D3000U is more expensive than most other 40-inch LCD televisions on sale.

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Other Worthwhile Televisions

If you're not satisfied with the 1366 x 768 resolution on the Sony KDL40D3000U, then it might be worth your time going to have a look at the Sony KDL40W3000 which sports a true HD native resolution of 1920 x 1080. Alternatively, if you don't mind non-full-HD resolution and are willing to consider a plasma television, the new Panasonic TH42PX80 should be on your buying shortlist.