Sony Bravia Z Series KLV-40ZX1M 40-Inch 1080p LED Monitor

Sony is one of the marquee brands in televisions for good reason. Their innovative designs and technological advancements have driven Sony in the HDTV industry. With the unveiling of their new model, the Bravia KLV-40ZX1M, Sony has elevated its already stellar track record of producing high quality TVs.

In the past, LCD displays have paled in comparison to their plasma counterparts. However, with the advent of new "edge-lit" LCDs, plasma TVs have just found a strong new rival. This new technology dramatically enhances the contrast ratio providing for sharper and brighter colors and increased clarity. Additionally, the Bravia KLV also allows LCDs to be thinner then ever. Measuring just 1.1 inches in depth, the KLV is the apex of style and function.

There is one drawback to the new KLV; their black level performance is still relatively poorer than plasmas. This causes a grey scale imbalance making the colors appear uneven and to be dull in unfocused areas of the screen. Still, the KLV comes with advanced picture controls allowing users to easily fine tune the picture for any room and measure of ambient light.

Ranging in price from anywhere between $3,000 and $4,000, the KLV is competitively priced, although definitely on the top end. Then again, the KLV is more energy efficient than other models running at just 120hz compared to other models that run at 240hz.

The Sony Bravia KLV-40ZX1M is certainly a top end television with great picture quality and clarity. Although plasma TVs may have a slight edge in contrast ratio and black level performance, the Bravia KLV outweighs plasmas in terms of features, style and overall performance.