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Sony's 2016 TV line-up - full overview

26 Feb 2016 | Rasmus Larsen |

This year, Sony will focus on 4K, HDR (high dynamic range) and Android TV. The company will offer more premium models, and HD TVs will no longer have Android TV. All 4K TVs will include support for the HDR format but if you want optimal HDR you have to looks towards the high-end TVs. 3D is as good as dead. FlatpanelsHD brings you the full overview of Sony’s 2016 TV line-up.

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Sony’s 2016 TV line-up

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3D is good as dead and curved TVs have never really been a thing for Sony. The company will offer only one curved TV in 2016 - and only in Europe. To sum up 2016 for Sony we think it is safe to say that 2016 is largely a continuation of 2015. However, that does certainly not mean that there are no improvements so let us dig in.

The first big theme for Sony in 2016 is improved picture quality through 4K and HDR. Combined, Sony says, it will take picture quality to new heights. Based on our own experience with HDR it certainly looks like a more important step forward than 4K, but unsurprisingly content is lacking.


Sony 2016

That will start to change with the release of the first UHD Blu-ray discs. Some streaming services such as Amazon, Netflix and Vudu will also offer HDR content but if you are in the market for the best, know that there is not yet a lot of content out there. Speaking of UHD Blu-ray, Sony has yet to announce its first player but says that it will release one “before April 2017". In the US, Sony will release a “Ultra" app; an online movie service that will allow users to stream movies in 4K. YouTube will start supporting HDR quality in 2016, too, and to enjoy it your TV needs to support VP9-Profile2. Sony says that its 2016 TVs do indeed support that.

Sony will not back the “UHD Premium" certification even though the company is a member of the UHD Alliance. The alliance has specified that any given LCD TV will need to deliver - among other things - 4K, 90% DCI-P3 color, and HDR with “1000 nits peak brightness and <0.05 nits black” to be certified. Sony argues that its two high-end TVs will be technically capable of fulfilling those requirements but that it has chosen to create its own “4K HDR" logo that spans across all product categories, including TVs and cameras.

Sony XD93/94 will meet the “UHD Premium" requirements but Sony will not use the logo

Sony likes to refer to its system for wide color gamut as “Triluminos". This is Sony’s way of saying that its TVs are capable of reproducing more colors than traditional TVs, especially those very saturated reds and greens. But be aware; you need HDR content such as the new UHD Blu-ray discs to enjoy the better colors.

The other big theme in 2016 is Android TV. Like last year, Sony will make Google’s Android TV operating system an integral part of its TVs. And like last year, the Android TV user interface will center on rows of content with a recommendation bar at the top. Later this year, Sony will update its 2015 and 2016 TVs to run Android 6.0 Marshmallow, and once that update hits the TVs you will be able to select which apps are allowed to push content in the recommendations bar.

Sony XD93


Android TV in all of the 4K TVs; none of the HD TVs
The Marshmallow version of Android TV will bring a few other new features along but Google’s focus has been to fix the many errors that affected the user experience on last year’s TVs and boxes, and to bring the OS up to speed. Sony does not want to talk about the technical capabilities of its new TVs but it appears that Sony will employ a faster processor.

A new remote will come bundled with all of the Android TVs. It has a big flashy Netflix button in the middle. The back is made from a rubber-like substance. The small one-flick remote of 2015 is dead. Sony will only bundle the big remote with its 2016 TVs.

Google Cast compatibility is part of Android TV so you can use all the TVs just like you would use the Chromecast dongle. Android TV is still not jam-packed with apps but developers are working on bringing more to the platform and Sony will also preload some of its own when you buy the TVs.

The flagship models for 2016 will be XD93 and XD94 and as you might have noticed the elephant ears (speakers) are gone. The latter will only be available in 75" and while it may seem like an extension of XD93 there is one important difference. XD94 has a full-array local dimming (FALD) system that is capable of controlling light in zones, for the optimal HDR picture quality.

Sony XD94


XD93 will use a special edge LED solution that Sony calls “Slim Backlight Drive". The company explains that it has stacked two rows of LEDs along the edges of the panel and is using two light diffuser plates to spread light. In this way it can increase the number local dimming zones somewhat. However, obviously not the same level of the XD94’s FALD solution.

The step-down model is the XD85, which is the successor to last year’s X85C. It will be an edge LED model with 4K resolution and support for HDR processing. We says “processing” because it will not be capable of reaching the same brightness peaks for HDR as the XD93/XD94 but it should offer good picture quality at a fair price. In most regions it will exist in three different design variants (XD8505, XD8577 & XD8599). A curved S85C will be available in Europe with the same specs.

Sony 2016

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And that’s where 4K ends. The next step-down model is the WD7, which offers HD resolution and excludes Android TV. It will still offer some basic Smart TV features, including an app for Netflix but it is a change in direction for Sony. Last year, Sony included Android TV in some HD models; this year, only in the 4K TVs. Besides WD7, Sony will release WD6 and RD4 series.

XD85 is the successor to last year’s popular X85C
Sony might add more 4K TV ranges to its line-up later this year, possibly at IFA, but for now the choice is easy. Go with XD85 if you want a value-for-money mid-range TVs. Pick SD85 if you want the same TV in a curved variant. Or pick XD93 or XD94 - depending on what size you prefer - if you want high-end picture quality with HDR.

In Europe, all of Sony’s 4K models will have built-in twin-tuner capabilities, making it possible to record one show while watching another. To enable this feature you need to buy and connect a USB hard drive.

Sony says that all of its 4K TVs are slimmer than last year’s TVs and that it has re-used the wall mount solution originally developed for last year’s super-thin X90C model. This means that the 2016 TVs can hang flush to the wall, and despite being thicker than last year’s X90C they will actually hang closer to the wall, argues Sony. With XD93/94 the wall bracket is included.

Sony will make it possible to wirelessly connect some of its new multi-room speakers to the 4K TVs to create surround sound setups. For the same TVs you can also buy a subwoofer that connects wirelessly to the TVs.

Sony’s 2016 TVs will start shipping in March. The high-end XD94 will be added to the line-up this summer. We will update the overview with more details as we get them. You can recognize the 2016 TVs by the letter “D" in the model name.



Sony ZD9 (Z9D)

Sony ZD9

ZD9 was added to the line-up over the summer and should offer the best picture quality from Sony to date. It is equipped with Backlight Master Drive technology.

US prices:
  • 65" Sony XBR-65Z9D
  • 75" Sony XBR-75Z9D
  • 100" Sony XBR-100Z9D

  • EU prices:
  • 65" Sony XBR-65ZD9
  • 75" Sony XBR-75ZD9
  • 100" Sony XBR-100ZD9

  • Further reading:
  • Sony unveils new 65-100" ZD9 flagship TV with Backlight Master Drive

  • Features
    Flat design
    4K resolution
    Backlit LED with LED-level controls
    Backlight Master Drive
    XR1200
    4K Processor X1 Extreme
    Triluminos (expanded color space)
    X-tended Dynamic Range Pro (for HDR)
    HDR10
    3D (active)
    Android TV
    Google Cast
    HEVC
    VP9-Profile2
    Twin tuner (in Europe)
    4x HDMI / 3x USB
    WiFi (ac standard)
    Table stand (all formats) / Floor stand (100”)



    Sony XD94 (X94D)

    Sony XD94

    XD94 is was the flagship for 2016 and the most capable TV from Sony. It will be the only model with direct LED backlight. It will be available only in 75".

    US prices:
  • 75" Sony XBR-75X940D

  • EU prices:
  • 75" Sony XBR-75XD940

  • Deutschland prices:
  • 75" Sony XBR-75XD940

  • Further reading:
  • A closer look at Sony’s 2016 TVs
  • First look at Sony's XD93 and XD94 HDR TVs

  • Features
    Flat design
    4K resolution
    Backlit LED with local dimming
    XR1200
    4K Processor X1
    Triluminos (expanded color space)
    X-tended Dynamic Range Pro (for HDR)
    HDR10
    3D (active)
    Android TV
    Google Cast
    HEVC
    VP9-Profile2
    Twin tuner (in Europe)
    4x HDMI / 3x USB
    WiFi (ac standard)



    Sony XD93 (X93D)

    Sony XD93

    XD93 is the smaller brother to XD94 and another flagship TV for 2016. It will come with all of the same features as XD94, except Direct LED.

    US prices:
  • 65" Sony XBR-65X930D
  • 55" Sony XBR-55X930D

  • EU prices:
  • 65" Sony 65XD9305
  • 55" Sony 55XD9305

  • Deutschland prices:
  • 65" Sony 65XD9305
  • 55" Sony 55XD9305

  • Further reading:
  • Review: Sony XD93 (X93D)
  • A closer look at Sony’s 2016 TVs
  • First look at Sony's XD93 and XD94 HDR TVs

  • Features
    Flat design
    4K resolution
    Slim Backlight Drive (Edge LED)
    XR1000
    4K Processor X1
    Triluminos (expanded color space)
    X-tended Dynamic Range Pro (for HDR)
    HDR10
    3D (active)
    Android TV
    Google Cast
    HEVC
    VP9-Profile2
    Twin tuner (in Europe)
    4x HDMI / 3x USB
    WiFi (ac standard)



    Sony XD85 (X85D)

    Sony XD85

    XD85 is the successor to last year’s popular X85C. It is a value for money TV with 4K resolution and HDR processing. However, it does not have the hardware to offer full HDR. XD85C will exist in three design variants; the difference being the color of the frame.

    US prices:
  • 85” Sony XBR-85X850D
  • 75” Sony XBR-75X850D
  • 65” Sony XBR-65X850D
  • 55” Sony XBR-55X850D

  • EU prices:
  • 85" Sony 85XD8505
  • 75" Sony 75XD8505
  • 65" Sony 65XD8505
  • 55" Sony 55XD8505

  • Deutschland prices:
  • 75" Sony 75XD8505
  • 65" Sony 65XD8505
  • 55" Sony 55XD8505

  • Further reading:
  • Review: Sony XD85
  • Sony XD85 (X85D) is now shipping

  • Features
    Flat design
    4K resolution
    Edge LED
    HDR processing
    XR800
    4K Processor X1
    Triluminos (expanded color space)
    HDR10
    Android TV
    Google Cast
    HEVC
    VP9-Profile2
    Twin tuner (in Europe)
    4x HDMI / 3x USB
    WiFi (ac standard)



    Sony SD85

    Sony SD85

    SD85 is the curved variant of XD85. It has the same technical capabilities so the only difference is design.

    US prices:
  • No

  • EU prices:
  • 65" Sony 65SD8505
  • 55" Sony 55SD8505

  • Deutschland prices:
  • 65" Sony 65SD8505
  • 55" Sony 55SD8505

  • Further reading:
  • Sony unveils 2016 TVs with 4K, HDR and Android TV

  • Features
    Curved design
    4K resolution
    Edge LED
    HDR processing
    XR800
    4K Processor X1
    Triluminos (expanded color space)
    HDR10
    Android TV
    Google Cast
    HEVC
    VP9-Profile2
    Twin tuner (in Europe)
    4x HDMI / 3x USB
    WiFi (ac standard)



    Sony XD83

    Sony XD83

    XD83 was added to the line-up over the summer in an effort to make 4K resolution and Android TV more affordable. It will be available only in Europe

    US:
  • No

  • Europe:
  • 49” Sony 49XD8305
  • 43” Sony 43XD8305

  • Further reading:
  • Sony launches affordable XD83, XD80, XD75, XD70 and SD80 4K TVs

  • Features
    Flat design
    4K resolution
    Edge LED
    HDR processing
    XR800
    Triluminos (expanded color space)
    HDR10
    Android TV
    Google Cast
    HEVC
    VP9 (Profile2 not confirmed)
    Twin tuner (in Europe)
    4x HDMI / 3x USB
    WiFi (ac standard)



    Sony SD80

    Sony SD80

    SD80 is a more affordable curved TV for Europe. It comes with 4K resolution and Android TV but no Triluminos technology.

    US:
  • No

  • EU prices:
  • 50” Sony 50SD8005

  • Deutschland prices:
  • 50” Sony 50SD8005

  • Further reading:
  • Sony launches affordable XD83, XD80, XD75, XD70 and SD80 4K TVs

  • Features
    Curved design
    4K resolution
    Edge LED
    HDR processing
    XR400
    HDR10
    Android TV
    Google Cast
    HEVC
    VP9 (Profile2 not confirmed)
    Twin tuner (in Europe)
    4x HDMI / 3x USB
    WiFi (ac standard)



    Sony XD80 (X80D)

    Sony XD80

    XD80 is another affordable 4K TV that was added over the summer. It also features Android TV and Triluminos. It is available in the US and Europe

    US prices:
  • 49” Sony 49X800D
  • 43” Sony 43X800D

  • EU prices:
  • 55” Sony 55XD8005
  • 49” Sony 49XD8005
  • 43” Sony 43XD8005

  • Deutschland prices:
  • 55” Sony 55XD8005
  • 49” Sony 49XD8005
  • 43” Sony 43XD8005

  • Further reading:
  • Sony launches affordable XD83, XD80, XD75, XD70 and SD80 4K TVs
  • Sony officially unveils X80D, X75D and X70D 4K Android TVs

  • Features
    Flat design
    4K resolution
    Edge LED
    HDR processing
    XR400 (55”) & XR200 (43” og 49”)
    Triluminos (expanded color space)
    HDR10
    Android TV
    Google Cast
    HEVC
    VP9 (Profile2 not confirmed)
    Twin tuner (in Europe)
    4x HDMI / 3x USB
    WiFi (ac standard)



    Sony XD75 (X75D)

    Sony XD75

    XD75 (X75D in the US) will only be available in 65”. It offers 4K resolution and Android TV.

    US prices:
  • 65” Sony 65X750D

  • EU prices:
  • 65” Sony 65XD7505

  • Deutschland prices:
  • 65” Sony 65XD7505

  • Further reading:
  • Sony launches affordable XD83, XD80, XD75, XD70 and SD80 4K TVs
  • Sony officially unveils X80D, X75D and X70D 4K Android TVs

  • Features
    Flat design
    4K resolution
    Direct LED
    HDR processing
    XR800
    HDR10
    Android TV
    Google Cast
    HEVC
    VP9 (Profile2 not confirmed)
    4x HDMI / 3x USB
    WiFi (ac standard)



    Sony XD70 (X70D)

    Sony XD70

    XD70 is the most affordable 4K TV from Sony in 2016. It is also Sony’s most affordable model with Android TV.

    US prices:
  • 55” Sony 55X700D
  • 49” Sony 49X700D

  • EU prices:
  • 55” Sony 55XD7005
  • 49” Sony 49XD7005

  • Deutschland prices:
  • 55” Sony 55XD7005
  • 49” Sony 49XD7005

  • Further reading:
  • Sony launches affordable XD83, XD80, XD75, XD70 and SD80 4K TVs
  • Sony officially unveils X80D, X75D and X70D 4K Android TVs

  • Features
    Flat design
    4K resolution
    Direct LED
    HDR processing
    XR200
    HDR10
    Android TV
    Google Cast
    HEVC
    VP9 (Profile2 not confirmed)
    4x HDMI / 3x USB
    WiFi (ac standard)



    Sony WD7

    Sony WD7

    WD7 is the best HD TV from Sony in 2016 but it is stripped of almost everything. It does not offer the Android TV operating system and only has two 2 HDMI ports.

    US prices:
  • No

  • EU prices:
  • 49" Sony 49WD75
  • 43" Sony 43WD75
  • 32" Sony 32WD75

  • Deutschland prices:
  • 49" Sony 49WD75
  • 43" Sony 43WD75
  • 32" Sony 32WD75

  • Further reading:
  • Sony unveils 2016 TVs with 4K, HDR and Android TV

  • Features
    Flat design
    1080p-oplřsning
    Edge LED
    XR200
    X-Reality Pro
    Netflix app
    HbbTV
    2x HDMI / 2x USB
    WiFi (n standard)



    Sony WD6 (W6D)

    Sony WD6

    WD6 is the step-down model. It is a cheaper option than WD7 but since it switches to direct LED it might actually offer slightly better picture quality. However, it will also be significantly thicker..

    US prices:
  • 48" Sony 48W650D
  • 40" Sony 40W650D
  • 32" Sony 32W600D

  • EU prices:
  • 48" Sony 48WD653
  • 40" Sony 40WD653
  • 32" Sony 32WD603

  • Deutschland prices:
  • 48" Sony 48WD653
  • 40" Sony 40WD653
  • 32" Sony 32WD603

  • Further reading:
  • Sony unveils 2016 TVs with 4K, HDR and Android TV

  • Features
    Flat design
    1080p resolution (not 32”)
    Direct LED
    XR200
    X-Reality Pro
    Netflix app
    HbbTV
    2x HDMI / 2x USB
    WiFi (n standard)



    Sony RD4

    Sony RD4

    RD4 is a low-end TV for the bedroom or summer home. It has HD resolution but none of the smart features.

    US prices:
  • No

  • EU prices:
  • 40" Sony 40RD453
  • 32" Sony 32RD433

  • Deutschland prices:
  • 40" Sony 40RD453
  • 32" Sony 32RD433

  • Further reading:
  • Sony unveils 2016 TVs with 4K, HDR and Android TV

  • Features
    Flat design
    1080p resolution (not 32”)
    Direct LED
    XR200
    X-Reality Pro



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