Sony was one of the first major HDTV manufacturers to offer 4K (also known as ultra HD or UHD) televisions, and three complete lines of 4K screens. Sony already introduced five 4K HDTVs in 2013 with the 55-, 65-, and 84-inch versions of the X900A series and the 55- and 65-inch versions of the X850A series. It’s expanding into three lines with nine total screens: the accessible and least expensive X850B series, the higher-end and big-screen X900B series, and the top-of-the-line X950B series.
New Features
NEW REMOTE: Sony’s new One-Flick Remote focuses on gesture navigation rather than controlling an on-screen cursor. Sony has revamped their menu system and the new remote lets users simply flick between tabs by swiping their thumb across the touchpad. NEW INTERFACE: The new interface also highlights 4K content available through Sony and Netflix, both of which are accessible as streaming services for all of Sony’s 2014 4K Ultra HD TVs. PlayStation Now, Sony’s streaming video game service, is also planned for upcoming 4K Ultra HD TVs. BRIGHTER SCREENS: 4K XReality and Triluminos are technologies Sony has promoted for the past year, but X-tended Dynamic Range is new for the 2014 4K Ultra HD models. The picture shows much more detail in brightly lit areas where the highlights would otherwise be washed out.
4K Media
Sony will also be updating its 4K Ultra HD Media Player line with the new FMP-X10 model. While the 4K Ultra HD TVs will support streaming 4K media, the FMP-X10 (like last year’s FMP-X1) can download 4K movies directly from Sony’s Movies Unlimited service for consistent playback quality and access. The X850B series will be available in screen sizes from 49 to 70 inches with suggested retail prices between $2,099 to $5,499. The X900B will be priced competitively with a MSRP of $3,999 for the 55-inch version and a 79-inch version retailing for $8,999. The new X950B series will reach into that luxury price range, with 65- and 85-inch versions available for approximately $7,999 and $24,999. As always, we at Creative Stereo HD would be happy to walk you through all the nuances of Sony’s latest 4K TVs.
