Samsung HDTVs at CES 2008

Like many electronics makers at CES, Samsung today launched a major update to its HDTV line, including its first explicitly Internet-connected sets. The flagship 6- and 7-series LCD sets both add a "touch of color" look with gapless design and translucent color effects but are more important for what they contain inside: each has built-in Ethernet connections that allow them to pull news from RSS feeds and the potential of more in the future. Each also touts an upgraded screen with a faster 4ms pixel response time, higher contrast ratios, and reduced glare alongside a motion artifact-free 120Hz output. It also expands the number of HDMI 1.3 inputs to four. The Korean firm expects the 40-, 46-, and 52-inch models (under the LNxxA650T name) to ship in March.

The 7 series expands on the 6 with more digital input and improved audio, Samsung says. An enhanced USB port allows it to play JPEG photos and MPEG videos as well as attach some portable audio players. Built-in memory also supplies content out of the box. For sound, a built-in subwoofer adds the bass response that frequently goes missing in most sets. Deliveries of the 7 series (under the LNxxA750T label) start in May at the same sizes as their 6 equivalents.

For plasma, Samsung is adding 3D support to the entry 4 and 5 series. Each can recognize certain 3D video feeds and output accordingly to achieve an enhanced effect. Glare resistance has also been improved on the sets. The PNxxA450P is available in 42- and 50-inch versions with three standard HDMI inputs; moving to the PNxxA550P both increases size to 50 and 58 inches while adding the same USB port as the 7 series LCDs and HDMI 1.3 for deeper color and audio. These too ship in March.

By Electronista Staff