Sony Bravia XBR-Series KDL-46XBR4 46-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV

Sony Bravia XBR-Series KDL-46XBR4 46-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV

Manufacturer: Sony
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List Price: $3,299.99
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Product Description

Amazon.com Product Description The Sony BRAVIA XBR KDL-46XBR4 46-inch 1080p LCD Flat Panel HDTV continues Sony's tradition of making outstanding televisions. With a 46-inch screen, you'll be able to see every little detail without any need to squint. Sony does not hold back with any technologies, and the XBR series is its flagship line--so with the XBR, you know you'll get the best quality home theater experience available.

The KDL-46XBR4 has vibrant colors and a 178-degree viewing angle. View larger. View product demo (requires Flash).

The XBR series delivers beautful visuals while incorporating all of Sony's latest technologies.
View product demo (requires Flash).

Top-Notch Video Performance
The XBR KDL-46XBR4 is a 1080p television with a full 1920 x 1080 resolution, the highest resolution available for the sharpest, clearest picture. The KDL-46XBR uses the most recent HDMI 1.3 interface, which houses both audio and video signals in one connector and has the bandwidth to support the data needed for the high resolution. Sony's Bravia Engine Pro Full Digital Video Processor upconverts all video signals to 1080p so you can watch all your old DVDs on this glorious display.

Sony complements the high resolution with the latest technology in color reproduction. The KDL-46XBR is a 10-bit display with 10-bit processing. Most panels are only 8-bit. The added bit depth here means a larger color palette for more faithful color reproduction and smoother transitions from one color to the next. Additionally, the display also supports the new x.v.Color standard, which dramatically increases the available color space. The end result is a picture that is so detailed, colorful, and vibrant, you'd have a hard time distinguishing it from real life.

The KDL-46XBR4 features Sony's Motionflow technology, which automatically adjusts for and applies the proper processing for optimal motion reproduction depending on the video input. This includes support for 24 frames per second (24p) video, which displays video content at the 24-frames-per-second rate at which it was originally filmed or recorded. With 24p, you get the most faithful possible reproduction of the original.

A Wide Variety of Inputs
This Sony television's wide variety of inputs ensures compatibility with your other home theater components. There are three HDMI connections for Blu-Ray, HD DVD, and other technologies requiring the high bandwidth, and two component video inputs, three composite video inputs, one S-Video input, one PC Audio and Video input, and five analog audio inputs. Even with a collection of legacy components, you shouldn't have a problem connecting to the KDL-46XBR4.

Stunning Looks
The KDL-46XBR4 not only displays stunning video but is itself a head-turner. It features Sony's unique floating glass frame along with a black bezel that can be interchanged with optional color bezels to match the display to your decor.

Outstanding Ergonomics and Simplicity of Control
Sony's Xross Media Bar interface is an award-winning, intuitive on-screen display that makes setup a breeze, with menus and controls logically laid out for quick access. The KDL-46XBR4 also features Theatre Sync technology, based on the HDMI-CEC standard, which means you can easily connect to and control compatible devices. For example, when the KDL-46XBR4 is connected to a compatible DVD player, you can turn on both the DVD player and the television and start playing a DVD with a single push of a button on the remote. When you're done, another push of a button powers everything down. With Theatre Sync, you can spend time enjoying the movie rather than waste time setting everything up.

More Than Just a Television
Because more and more people expect to view photos on their HDTVs, Sony developed a Photo TV HD mode that optimally sets the sharpness, gradation, and color to make digital photos look like printed photography.

The KDL-46XBR4 is backed by a 1-year limited warranty for parts and labor.

Full HD Quality

HDTV provides up to six times the visual detail of the Standard Definition television. You need an HDTV set, HD sound and a source of HD content to make sure you're really getting HD.

One-step Simplicity

It's easy to setup your HDTV system. A single HDMI cable carries both audio and video signals, while it also banishes confusing setup and cord tangles.

You're Surrounded

HD broadcasting can include up to 7.1 channels of surround sound. A Sony HD Audio system lets you experience every whisper.

Ready for Primetime

You've got the set, now get the shows. HD sports, comedies, dramas, movies and more are available on Broadcast, Cable and Satellite TV.

What's in the Box
KDL-46XBR4 46-inch LCD flat panel HDTV, remote control, 2 AA batteries, AC power cord, operating instructions, quick setup guide, warranty card, table top stand, and support strap.

Product Details

10-bit 16:9 Full HD 1080p Panel (1920x1080)
Motionflow� with FHD 120 Hz high frame rate capability
BRAVIA Engine� PRO & Live Color Creation� system
1080p Inputs: HDMI� (x3), YPbPr (x2), PC
Advanced Contrast Enhancer (ACE)

Video Reviews

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Customer Reviews

The best monitor available today.

Review Date: August 17, 2007

Reviewer: J. Donaldson, Camarillo, CA USA

We purchased an XBR4 and brought it home last night from a brick-and-mortar store. I didn't think they would be available for another month. I've been trying to decide what to purchase for almost 4 months (a common story from what I've read on the internet). Every time I stood in Frys Electronics, or Best Buy, or Circuit City the Sony XBR series would catch my eye. In my opinion they simply are better than all the rest.

I looked briefly at Plasma but our living room has lots of windows so we couldn't tolerate the shiny screens. The latest and greatest Samsung LCDs also have shiny screens so alas they were excluded.

We compared the Sharp Aquos 52d82 with the Sony XBR3 and once again the sharpness and clarity of the Sony outstripped the Sharp. This is all subjective mind you. You might very well be quite satisfied with another brand. For me I would never be happy had I purchased something else, knowing these XBR series were out there.

Last night the Sony 46" XBR4 was sitting between two Plasma TVs in the store. The Sony was sharper and had deeper blacks than the two Plasmas.

I was itching to purchase a Sony but I knew the XBR4 & 5 were coming soon with the 120Hz refresh, 10 bit color, 3 HDMI 1.3 inputs, PC input, 15000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 2000:1 true contrast, and the BLACK bezel. Yes the XBR4 came with the black bezel which I prefer over the silver of the XBR2.

Setup was as easy as the traditional CRT TV the XBR4 replaced in our living room. Plug it in, stick the Playstation 3 HDMI cable into the back, turn it on, select the game input and away we went.

We have a library of over 300 480i DVDs. I was concerned they wouldn't look good. I've read many user reviews about poor quality 480i presentations on the previous XBRs. While they can't hold a candle to the Blu-Ray Planet Earth series the standard DVDs look quite respectable on the XBR4.

The Sony remote is quite long compared to our other remotes. It has single buttons to change the Picture from Wide Zoom, to Normal, Full, and Zoom. You can quickly also select Vivid, Standard, Cinema, or Custom Picture Modes. The remote is a "universal" type that will control a Set Top Box, DVD, Blu Ray disk player, or of course the TV. The remote picked up my Sony DVD player without me having to do anything to set it up. However we have a Logitech Harmony 890 (Amazon has a great price) so won't be using the Sony remote.

There are 10 input selections, TV, Video 1 (which we named DVD), Video 2, Video 3, Component 1, Component 2, HDMI 1 (which we named Game for the Playstation 3), HDMI 2, HDMI 3, and PC. I did hook up my PC which has 1080p capability and surfed the internet for a while. I don't think these big screens make good PC monitors though as you have to sit close enough to read text and at that point they are too large.

There were no dead pixels, and I haven't seen any "clouding" that was the bane of the XBR2&3.

Yes it is pricey but in my opinion it is the best.

September 27, 2007 update
Now that I've had this LCD for over a month I'm very pleased with it. One additional comment is the built in speakers are quite good. I also recently purchased a 34" Sharp with built in speakers and immediately noticed the difference in the poorer sound quality in this Sharp. The Sony sounds so good I haven't spent the time to hook the sound output jacks up to my surround sound system.

Changing channels could be quicker, but my guess is the TV is trying to figure out what kind of signal it has (480i, 720i, 1080i) and make adjustments.

I've had issues with dropping sync with some digital TV channels but I have no way of knowing if it is the TV itself or the quality of my cable. It will lose sync for about 5 seconds then re-sync.

Fantastic once calibrated and having all features turned on.

Review Date: September 13, 2007

Reviewer: zarxs, Seattle, WA

HDguru's review of this TV pointed to a problem with the handing of interlaced video and recommended switching from Vivid to Custom (or cinema settings), it does make a difference once you settings on Custom are right. Picture is incredible. With Motion flow turned on and sharpness turned up, contract and back-light turned to max it looks like you are looking through a window. If anyone wants my settings let me know. I am just thrilled with quality. I have a PC-VCR attached to the VGA connector. I have a DVD player connected using HDMI and using the scaler from the TV take it to 1080p. With sharpness turned up motion flow turned on, detail and edge enhancer turned on the DVD's look amazing I can't wait for a Blu-Ray player, can you say PS3?

Weaknesses
1. the out of the box settings seem ok but you get so much more after you tweak it. Which leads me to my only complaint which really isn't one there are so many settings and the manual doesn't do a good enough job explaining what they do (even for a techy).
2. The cost is pretty high but if it's worth it.

Suggestions buy your cables through Amazon it's worth it. The shipping may cost more then the cables but that still 1/3 the price of buying them elsewhere.

Worth the wait

Review Date: August 24, 2007

Reviewer: C. Webster, Huntsville, AL

I was having trouble deciding between an older XBR model (such as the XBR2 or XBR3 ) or waiting for this new model to come out. I decided to wait, and I am very glad I did. The new Xross interface is amazing, as is the picture quality. No "clouds" in the corners like some of the XBR2 and XBR3 models. One thing I must mention that is a real plus is the "Game Mode" option for various inputs. For people familiar with games like Guitar Hero, A/V lag can be a big deal. The game mode on this model works like a charm and removes almost all lag (I didn't even have to "calibrate lag" in the game options). The only negative I have noticed so far is the automatic backlight adjusting. It can be easily put to manual, but on the default automatic setting it seems to overcompensate when credits start to roll, or if something is white on a black background.

Update: November 31, 2007
I have had this TV since the day it was released, and I don't regret purchasing it at all. As some of the other reviewers have mentioned, you really need to take the time and adjust the "Custom" options to your liking, because "Vivid" is a bit over the top. After 3 months though, the TV is still going strong with no dead pixels or clouding or any problems at all. I couldn't be happier.

Awesome TV!

Review Date: October 26, 2007

Reviewer: MK, MN

I spent 6 months online and in stores researching LCD TV's. I read reviews on every imaginable website. I even looked at the TV manual on Sony's website, just to see what features it had before I bought it! If you're going to spend this amount of money you want the best. This TV is the best. I ordered it from Amazon because the price was good and I saved around $300 in sales tax. I figured I could easily spend that money on an upconvert DVD player, which you MUST have to view regular DVD's on this TV (with any kind of quality), and HDMI cables. I also bought the Sony upconvert DVD player from Amazon. I have a few tips however to get the best bang for your buck...

First tip: Follow the shipping. Amazon emails you a tracking # which you can then plug into Eagle Freight's web site to track your package. Once it gets to your state, call them and arrange for delivery. Don't wait for them to call you! When it reaches your state another delivery company may be subcontracted to deliver. That's where your proactiveness comes in. By being proactive (and very anxious to receive my new TV), the TV was delivered 3 days early! The guys came in unpacked it and let me plug it in to make sure it worked. I had them leave the box, just in case.

Second tip: Google "XBR4 calibration". You'll find a web-site called AVS. There is a forum on which a bunch of techno geeks discuss how they adjusted this TV. You can then print off settings and see what's best for you. The manual for this TV is not comprehensive enough and doesn't explain well what all the settings do. This website discusses it at length and then some.

Third tip: Direct TV offers the best HD package. They have over 100 channels. Standard TV looks OK, but HD is like looking out a window. So clear...

Where ever you buy this TV, you won't be disappointed. Sony is a leader in electronics, and you get what you pay for.

Magnificent HDTV

Review Date: October 13, 2007

Reviewer: Modrnknght, Hollywood, CA United States

I bought my Sony 46XBR4 on Labor Day, so I have been using it just about a month now. I can't even tell you all the worrying about which model of Sony HDTV to get that I went through prior to that, especially since some other recent Sony models were several hundred dollars less than the 46XBR4. Finally, finally!, I bit the bullet and went for this one, knowing three grand was an incredibly ridiculous amount of money to pay for a TV and sweating bullets every day until it got delivered. I think the most I ever paid was about $700 before years ago (also a Sony and I still have it), but that might even have included a stand. (A few days later, I was talking to a coworker about each other's activities over the holiday, and I said I bought a 46-in HDTV and mentioned the price. Let me tell you, this was the first time I had said the price aloud to anyone, and it suddenly hit me just how much money that is, and what the HECK was I thinking??!!!

Well, now, I think it was the best TV decision I ever made. Wait...I'm sorry, I can't call this just a "TV"; it should have a more magnificent name. There are times when I am watching some HD programming (such as Dancing with the Stars -- okay, go ahead and laugh, but I love Jane Seymour on it) or a Blu-ray movie, and I am stunned at the incredible depth, color, sharpness, anything you could name. I find the Motion Enhancer feature set to "High" makes things very three-dimensional like.

I also have an Optoma HD72 projector, and up until I got this HDTV I would be watching it almost every night. There is still nothing to compare with the size of a 120" image on a huge screen to really give you the theater feel. However, since getting the HDTV, I have barely had one night when I have used the projector. Certainly the HDTV image is much smaller than the projector's but, oh, that image! I have always been impressed by Sony products (I would guess 95% of my home entertainment items are Sony) but I never realized how much better the image was on a Sony until I started looking before - and after - selecting this HDTV. I have a game now where I go into a Costco or Best Buy and see a line of HDTVs, and I try to guess from the screen alone which is the Sony. And it is very easy because the Sony HDTVs shine above the other.

A few days after I got this TV delivered, and enjoyed playing with it, I went into the Burbank Fry's Electronics store. It turned out that right near the entrance, they had the 46XBR4 set up next to a 46V3000 or a 46W3000, I think it was. Now, let me just say that before I decided on the 46XBR4, I was almost going to go with either the V or the W. However, now seeing the XBR4 and the other model right there next to each other...there was no comparison. The 46XBR4 made the V or the W, whichever it was, a pale imitation. They were playing the first Pirates of the Caribbean movie from a Blu-ray player on both screens and I was listening to other people saying how much better that XBR4 was in every detail. I could definitely see it. Believe me, I was certainly a happier man when I saw the two HDTVs together because it told me I made the right choice. That extra money was worth it!

I love it! I absolutely love it! This is the most incredible picture I have ever seen! Go for it!

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