Sony introduces 2022 LCD TV line-up – X95K, Z9K with miniLED

04 Jan 2022 | Rasmus Larsen |

At CES 2022, Sony has introduced the Z9K, X95K, X90K, X85K and X80K LCD models. Z9K and X95K feature miniLED local dimming while X90K gains the XR video processor.

Sony 2022 LCD TVs

TCL was first to introduce miniLED-based LCD TVs, LG and Samsung following suit in 2021, and Sony is making its move in 2022. - "Powered by Cognitive Processor XR, the unique XR Backlight Master Drive precisely controls our latest generation Mini LED backlight in the Z9K and X95K series for incredible brightness. Enjoy an unprecedented dynamic range with incredibly dazzling lights and deep blacks, as well as beautifully natural mid tones with almost no flare or halos around highlights," announced Sony. The miniLED backlight is controlled by the 'XR Backlight Master Drive' system and Sony said that it has optimized it to reduce blooming while still retaining contrast and high peak brightness. Of course, in-depth testing is required to determine exact performance and it is worth noting that other miniLED-based LCD TVs still suffer from heavy blooming – even more so than more conventional zone dimming LCD TVs. Sony did not specify the number of dimming zones.

Sony X95K miniLED LCD

The popular 90 series will not gain miniLED but still come with local dimming. X90K will feature Sony's 'Cognitive Processor XR' that was first introduced in 2021. X90K will be available in 55, 65, 75, and 85 inches. As for peak brightness in HDR, Z9K, X95K and X90K are specified as having 'XR Contrast Booster' 20, 15 and 10, respectively. Sony is not providing actual figures but the number indicates the multiple over a conventional LCD TV, so we would expect Z9K to hit between 2000-4000 nits. X90K should also hit higher peak brightness than last year's X90J, according to Sony.

Sony X90K LCD

Z9K and X95K will have Sony's 'X-Wide Angle' enhancement which is somewhat controversial as it expands the viewing angle at the expense of contrast. You get HDMI 2.1 functionality such as 4K120, VRR (variable refresh rate – will be supported from launch!), ALLM (auto-switching to Game Mode), and eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) from X85K and up. These models will also come with the new PlayStation 5 features. For more specifications we refer to the TV Database:

Sony Z9K 8K miniLED LCD TVs - specifications

Sony X95K 4K miniLED LCD TVs - specifications

Sony X90K 4K LCD TVs - specifications

Sony X85K 4K LCD TVs - specifications

Sony X80K 4K LCD TVs - specifications

Sony X85K LCD

Google TV, HDMI 2.1, Bravia Core

Once again this year, Sony TVs will be powered by Google TV with access to streaming services like Disney+, Google Stadia, HBO Max, and Netflix. A new 'Sony' tab will be added to the Google TV homescreen to highlight Sony-specific features. There is an expanded Netflix Adaptive Calibrated Mode that takes into account the viewing environment. It is part of Sony's effort to do ambient optimization across HDMI and app sources. For Netflix it can automatically adjust the luminance level (X80K and up) and the tone curve (X90K and up). Sony's own Bravia Core streaming service will get a calibrated mode.

- "Bravia Core is a pre-loaded movie service that includes up to 10 movies to redeem and up to 24 months unlimited streaming with the purchase of a Bravia XR TV. With Bravia XR technology, Pure Stream and IMAX Enhanced, content is delivered with stunning visuals and expressive sound quality," the company said. "Over time, the app experience will be enriched with new features. Bravia Core will be available in over 75 countries in 2022." There is a new remote control (comes bundled with Z9K, X95K and X90K), which is smaller with fewer buttons (25 vs. 49 last year). The user can also ask a voice assistant to "find the remote". The TVs also come with features like Apple HomeKit and AirPlay 2. Sony's three top LCD models have 'Acoustic Multi-Audio' meaning that Sony has placed four (Z9K) or two (X95K, X90K) tweeters in the frame of the TV for more direct sound/voices. The mid-range and woofers are placed along the bottom of the frame. This is not the same as 'Acoustic Surface Audio' in Sony's OLED models that uses the actual OLED panel as speakers. If you want to connect a soundbar, Sony's Acoustic Center Sync feature (X90K and up) will let you use the TV speakers in combination for improved center channel audio.

Sony's Bravia Camera

A camera, which can be placed on top of the TV, will let the TVs adjust the picture to match the surrounding and let the TV detect the user (requires firmware update) for automatic audio volume adjustment depending on the viewing distance as well as gesture control. The Bravia Cam comes bundled with Z9K but is otherwise optional. It also supports video chat. Pricing and availability will be announced later.