Sony’s new TVs and soundbars are finally here. With this slate of models, Sony is bringing a unified, cinema-like audio and video experience to everyone’s living room. The brand’s four new TV models, the BRAVIA 9, 8, 7, and 3, are each 4K models that boast improved brightness, processing, and sound over previous comparable models. They all include the user-friendly Google TV operating system and optimization for the PS5 game console, as well as AirPlay 2 and Chromecast. Sony also announced the HT-A9M2, HT-A9000, and HT-A8000 sound systems along with the SU-WL905 TV mount and SU-WB1 soundbar mount.
Let’s start with Sony’s BRAVIA 3, or S30 series. With 43, 50, 55, 65, 75, and 85" sizes, the BRAVIA 3 series is Sony’s only new model available in 43". Their direct-LED backlit LCD screen means color, contrast, and viewing angle are improved considerably over previous edge-lit entry models. As with each of this year’s models, the BRAVIA 3 comes equipped with intelligent processing, 4K upscaling, and enhanced motion clarity.
Next up is the BRAVIA 7, or XR70 series, available in 55, 65, 75, and 85" models. The BRAVIA 7 features upgraded image quality with a full-array, mini-LED backlight and QLED LCD panel. Thousands of mini-LEDs are precisely controlled by Sony’s XR Backlight Master Drive to provide improved brightness, contrast, and control compared to standard LED. The processing is improved with the XR Processor, and studio-calibrated picture modes are available for Netflix, Prime Video, and Sony Pictures Core. The sound quality is also improved with a 2-channel, 2-way, 40-watt speaker system that utilizes Acoustic Multi-Audio and sound-positioning tweeters for a wide soundstage. Additionally, the BRAVIA 7 and higher models include Acoustic Center Sync, which pairs the TV’s speakers with a compatible BRAVIA sound system. They are also ready for 360 Spatial Sound Mapping.
The BRAVIA 8, or XR80 series, is this year’s OLED entry. Available in 55, 65, and 77" sizes, the BRAVIA 8 series employs over 8 million, precisely controlled, self-lit pixels for an incredibly accurate picture capable of producing pure black and brilliant color, with clarity in every detail. The built-in sound system is a 2-way, 2.1-channel, 50 to 56-watt configuration with front and side positioned speakers and an integrated subwoofer. With Acoustic Surface Audio+, actuators behind the panel turn the entire screen into a speaker, enabling audio to follow the onscreen action.
At the top of the new lineup is the BRAVIA 9, or XR90 series. Available in 65, 75, and 85", the Bravia 9 is a mini-LED QLED panel that promises to be Sony’s brightest TV ever. It uses better processing and more zones of control than the BRAVIA 7 to produce near-OLED levels of contrast. It is also the only model to apply X-Anti-Reflection to reduce screen glare and X-Wide Angle processing to improve viewing angle. The BRAVIA 9 will deliver high brightness and high contrast to every seat in the room, at any time of day. For sound, Sony has packed an impressive 70-watt, 2.2.2-channel speaker configuration with Acoustic Multi-Audio+ and up-firing tweeters for an elevated soundstage.
Sony has focused on improving the built-in audio on the new TV models, as well as expanding the BRAVIA Acoustic Center Sync feature to more models. To take advantage of that feature and complete the home theater experience, there are two new BRAVIA Theater Bar systems, the HT-A9000 and HT-A8000, and a new BRAVIA Theater Quad surround sound system, the HT-A9M2. The HT-A8000 is an 11-channel, 495-watt, Dolby Atmos soundbar. The HT-A9000 ups the ante with 13 channels and 585 watts of total power. The HT-A9M2 is a four-speaker, wireless, surround-sound setup with 16 total drivers, including up-firing height channels on all four speakers. These three can be expanded with optional wireless subwoofers, and the A9000 and A8000 can pair with optional rear surround speakers. They all support the latest HDMI specs in addition to Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, and Airplay 2.
Along with the new TV and soundbar models, Sony has released a new TV and soundbar wall mount. Create a flush-mount look with the ultra-slim SU-WL905 for 55 to 85" displays, and matching soundbar mount, SU-WB1 (sold separately). They provide a unified mounting setup that allows the TV and soundbar to pull out and swivel in unison, while maintaining a slim profile when pushed against the wall.
That is all we have to report about Sony TVs, for now. Check out the links above for additional features and specs. As always, we’d love to hear from you. Drop us a line below and let us know which TV and sound package you’re setting up or if you have any questions.
