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Sony HX820 edge LEDs up the processing, Hz

The KDL-HX820 series is Sony's second best TV for 2011 announced at CES.

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David Katzmaier

Sony's KDL-HX820 is the company's second-best LCD series, and offers slick Monolithic styling and a thin edge-lit panel. Sony

LAS VEGAS--Among the oodles of new HDTVs Sony announced for 2011, the KDL-HX820 will be the second-most expensive after the flagship XBR-HX929 models.

The main difference between the two series of LED-based LCD TVs is their backlighting schemes. While the XBR gets full-array local dimming, the step-down HX820 delivers local dmming from an edge-lit configuration--an arrangement we haven't liked as much in the past. On the other hand, edge-lit LEDs are generally slimmer than their full-array brethren.

The main differences between the HX820 and the step-down NX720 are processing related. the HX820 includes the higher-end X-Reality PRO Engine and MotionFlow 480 video processing (we assume the latter is the equivalent of 480Hz). We're not sure how much difference these step-ups will make, however.

Otherwise the two are very similar. For more information, refer to our writeup of the Sony KDL-NX720 series.

Pricing for the HX820 was not announced, and availability is listed as May.

Sony KDL-HX820 series features:

  • Edge-lit LED backlight with local dimming
  • 3D compatible
  • X-Reality PRO video processing
  • MotionFlow XR 480 dejudder processing
  • Monolithic design
  • OptiContrast panel with Gorilla Glass
  • Bravia Internet video
  • Built-in Wi-Fi connection

Sony KDL-HX820 series models:

  • Sony KDL-46HX820: 46-inch
  • Sony KDL-55HX820: 55-inch