Sony 65 Inch OLED 4K Ultra HD TV Review BRAVIA 8 Features Explained

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Sony 65 Inch OLED 4K Ultra HD TV BRAVIA 8 immediately stands out with its sleek and premium design. From the moment I unboxed it, I could tell this wasn’t just another TV; the ultra-slim profile screams sophistication. The minimal bezels make it perfect for a modern living room setup, and the Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology cleverly integrates the speakers directly into the screen. This combination of form and functionality gives a clean, futuristic appearance that blends effortlessly into any space. At 51.2 pounds, it’s sturdy without being overly bulky, though I’d recommend a second pair of hands when setting it up.

Picture Quality and Performance

The picture quality on this TV is absolutely mind-blowing. With over 8 million self-lit pixels, the pure black OLED contrast creates an unparalleled depth to the images. Watching movies with high contrast scenes felt almost as if I were in a theater. The XR Triluminos Pro technology adds billions of real-world colors, making every scene vibrant and lifelike. Even old HD content feels rejuvenated thanks to the XR Processor, which enhances color, contrast, and clarity in real-time. I tested this while streaming nature documentaries, and the details in the foliage and animal textures were astonishingly crisp.

Gaming was another highlight for me. As someone who spends hours on a PlayStation 5, the exclusive features like Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode elevated my experience. These settings automatically optimized the visuals for both gaming and streaming, so I didn’t have to fiddle around with configurations. Motion clarity during fast-paced action scenes or sports events was also a standout, thanks to XR OLED Motion technology.

Audio Performance

What really sets this TV apart is the Acoustic Surface Audio+ system. The screen itself acts as the speaker, delivering a surround sound experience that’s both immersive and unique. It’s almost eerie how the sound follows the action on screen, making you feel like the characters are speaking directly to you. The Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support amplify this even further, offering a theater-like soundscape. While watching action movies, I could feel the deep rumbles of explosions and the crisp clarity of dialogue without needing an external soundbar.

However, I wouldn’t call it perfect for audiophiles. While the sound quality is excellent for built-in speakers, those who are used to full surround sound setups might still crave a dedicated audio system for that extra oomph.

User Interface and Features

Navigating the Google TV interface felt intuitive and smooth. All my favorite streaming apps like Netflix, Disney+, and Prime Video were readily available on one platform. A standout feature is the Sony Pictures CORE app, which includes 5 credits for the latest releases and a 12-month subscription to a library of classic movies in 4K UHD. I found this a fantastic bonus, especially for cinephiles.

Voice controls via Google Assistant worked seamlessly. I could switch apps, search for shows, or even adjust settings with simple voice commands. Additionally, the inclusion of AirPlay 2 made it incredibly convenient to stream content directly from my iPhone.

Key Benefits

• Stunning OLED Display: The pure black contrast and vibrant colors elevate every viewing experience.
• Gaming Optimization: The PS5-specific features like Auto HDR Tone Mapping are a game-changer for gamers.
• Cinematic Audio: The Acoustic Surface Audio+ system offers an immersive sound experience.
• Smart Interface: Intuitive and packed with apps, the Google TV platform simplifies content access.

Areas for Improvement

• Sound Limitations: While the Acoustic Surface Audio+ is impressive, it might not satisfy hardcore audiophiles.
• Weight and Setup: At over 51 pounds, mounting or moving the TV can be challenging without assistance.
• Limited Viewing Angles: The OLED screen, although stunning, can lose some brightness and clarity from certain angles.

Competing Products

Compared to models like the LG C2 OLED and Samsung QN90C, this TV has its unique strengths and weaknesses. The LG C2, for instance, offers similar OLED picture quality but lacks the Acoustic Surface Audio+, which makes the Sony BRAVIA 8 a more immersive option for sound enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Samsung QN90C delivers brighter images due to its QLED technology, but it doesn’t match the OLED’s pure black contrast. Where the Sony model truly excels is in its PlayStation 5 integration, which neither competitor offers at this level.

Value for Money

The Sony BRAVIA 8 delivers exceptional value for its price. While it is an investment, the combination of premium OLED visuals, advanced gaming features, and studio-calibrated modes makes it worth every penny. Competitors might offer similar specs at slightly lower prices, but the enhanced audio-visual experience and exclusive perks like movie credits set this TV apart. If you’re someone who prioritizes both entertainment and gaming, this product strikes a perfect balance between performance and luxury.

Additional information