Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV Review (2024 Model)

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Welcome, fellow tech enthusiasts, to an in-depth journey into the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV, 2024 Model. If you’re considering upgrading your home entertainment system, you’re in for a treat. This review will cover every aspect of this high-end TV, from its stunning picture quality to its gamer-friendly features. Prepare to dive deep into the world of the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV.

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First Impressions: Design and Build Quality

When you first lay eyes on the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV, it’s clear that this is no ordinary television. Available in 55-inch, 65-inch, and an imposing 77-inch sizes, this TV is designed to impress. The ultra-thin profile immediately gives it a futuristic appeal, and the minimal bezels mean you get more screen and less distraction. This is a TV that can blend seamlessly into any modern living room, or stand out as a centerpiece in its own right.

Unboxing the TV is an experience in itself. The packaging is meticulous, ensuring that your new TV arrives in perfect condition. As you lift the TV out of the box, the first thing you’ll notice is its weight – it’s solid, hinting at the quality of the build. The stand, with its sturdy metal feet, provides excellent stability and adds a touch of elegance to the overall design. Sony has also thought about cable management, with features that help keep your setup clean and organized. No more messy cables tangling up behind your TV!

Picture Quality: A Feast for the Eyes

Now, let’s talk about what really matters: picture quality. The Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV is all about delivering an immersive visual experience. Thanks to the over 8 million self-lit pixels, the contrast is nothing short of incredible. Blacks are truly black – not dark gray, but the kind of black that makes you feel like you’re staring into the depths of space. This makes a huge difference in dark scenes, where details that would be lost on lesser TVs become crystal clear.

The XR Contrast Booster 15 further enhances the contrast, making bright parts of the image pop without washing out the darker areas. Imagine watching a movie like “Blade Runner 2049” – the neon lights of the cityscape are dazzling, while the shadowy corners retain their depth and detail. It’s like seeing the movie for the first time, even if you’ve watched it a dozen times before.

Color reproduction is another area where this TV excels. The XR Triluminos Pro technology ensures that colors are vibrant and true to life. Skin tones look natural, and the variety of hues is astonishing. Whether you’re watching a lush nature documentary or a colorful animated film, you’ll be amazed at how vivid and accurate the colors are. Every scene bursts with life, making you feel like you’re right there, in the middle of the action.

Sound Quality: Immersive Audio Experience

Of course, great picture quality is only half the equation. Sound is just as important for an immersive viewing experience, and the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV doesn’t disappoint. The Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology is a game-changer. Instead of traditional speakers, the TV uses the entire screen as a speaker, creating sound that comes directly from the action on screen. This means that when a car zooms across the screen from left to right, the sound follows it, enhancing the realism.

In addition, the TV has a built-in subwoofer that provides a satisfying amount of bass. Explosions in action movies have a deep thump, and dialogue is clear and crisp. For those who want to take it to the next level, pairing the TV with a Sony soundbar will give you a truly cinematic experience. The synergy between the TV and soundbar creates an audio environment that envelops you, making every movie night an event to remember.

Gaming: A Gamer’s Delight

Gamers, this section is for you. The Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV is designed with gaming in mind, especially for PlayStation 5 owners. The exclusive features tailored for the PS5 take the gaming experience to new heights. Auto HDR Tone Mapping adjusts the HDR settings for the best possible picture quality, ensuring that you see every detail in bright and dark scenes. Auto Genre Picture Mode ensures the TV switches to the ideal settings whether you’re gaming or streaming, so you always get the best possible picture.

The 120 Hz refresh rate means smooth, fluid motion, which is crucial for fast-paced games. Imagine playing “Call of Duty” or “Forza Horizon 5” with no motion blur – every movement is crisp and clear, giving you a competitive edge. The Game Menu is another handy feature, putting all your gaming picture settings and exclusive assist features in one place for easy access. It’s a gamer’s paradise.

However, there are a couple of minor issues worth mentioning. Some users have reported occasional sound glitches during game loading screens. It’s a minor annoyance and one that will likely be fixed with future firmware updates. Overall, if you’re serious about gaming, this TV is a fantastic choice that will elevate your gaming experience to new levels.

Smart Features: All Your Favorites in One Place

The Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV runs on Google TV, which brings a wealth of smart features and streaming options to your fingertips. With access to over 700,000 movies and TV episodes from more than 10,000 apps, you’ll never run out of things to watch. Whether you’re a fan of Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, or even Crunchyroll, it’s all here, neatly organized and easy to navigate.

Google TV also integrates live TV channels, so you can switch between streaming and live broadcasts seamlessly. The voice search feature powered by Google Assistant is another convenience, allowing you to find movies, stream apps, play music, and control the TV with just your voice. Just press the Google Assistant button on the remote, and you’re good to go.

For Apple users, the TV supports AirPlay 2, making it easy to stream content from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. And if you have Alexa-enabled devices, you can use them to control your TV, adjust the volume, and change channels with voice commands. This level of integration makes the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV a central hub for all your entertainment needs.

Exclusive Features: Tailored for the Ultimate Experience

Sony has included a host of exclusive features that elevate the BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV above the competition. One standout feature is the new Studio Calibrated Modes for streaming services like Prime Video and Netflix. These modes are designed to deliver picture quality just as the creators intended. Watching “Stranger Things” in Netflix Adaptive mode, you’ll feel like you’re right there in Hawkins, Indiana, experiencing the supernatural events firsthand.

The Sony Pictures CORE app is another gem. With your BRAVIA TV, you get movie credits to watch the latest releases and a subscription to stream hundreds of classic films. It’s a cinephile’s dream come true, giving you access to a vast library of high-quality content at no extra cost.

Connectivity and Integration: Seamlessly Connected

In terms of connectivity, the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV has you covered. It comes with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet, and HDMI ports, so you can connect all your devices easily. Setting up a 4K Roku streaming device, for instance, is a breeze, and the TV integrates well with other smart home devices.

However, a word of caution: if you have a dual-band router, the Wi-Fi setup might be a bit tricky. Some users have reported needing to configure their routers to ensure a stable connection. It’s a small bump in an otherwise smooth road, but worth mentioning. Once connected, the TV’s performance is rock solid, providing a seamless streaming and gaming experience.

Picture from Any Angle: Perfect for Any Room

One of the features that sets the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV apart is its ability to deliver a beautiful picture from any angle. Thanks to the X-Wide Angle and X-Anti Reflection technologies, you get a premium picture with reduced glare no matter where you’re sitting. This is perfect for family movie nights where everyone wants the best seat in the house. Whether you’re viewing from directly in front or off to the side, the picture quality remains consistent and impressive.

Setup: A Bit of Patience Goes a Long Way

Setting up the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV can take a bit longer than other smart TVs. The initial configuration involves a series of steps, from connecting to your Wi-Fi network to signing into your streaming accounts. But once you get through it, you’ll find that it’s worth the effort.

The user interface is intuitive, and the remote control is well-designed with quick access buttons for popular streaming services. If you’re tech-savvy, you’ll breeze through the setup. If not, just take it step by step, and don’t hesitate to consult the manual or online tutorials. Patience pays off, and once you’re done, you’ll be rewarded with a world of entertainment at your fingertips.

User Experience: Real-Life Scenarios

Let’s paint a picture of what life is like with the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV. Imagine it’s Friday night, and you’re hosting a movie night with friends. As you settle in with your popcorn, you fire up “Inception” on Netflix. The Studio Calibrated Modes ensure the picture quality is just as Christopher Nolan intended – deep blacks, vivid colors, and stunning contrast. The Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology makes you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action, with the sound perfectly matching the visuals.

The next day, you decide to binge-watch the latest season of “The Mandalorian.” The XR Triluminos Pro technology brings the alien landscapes and vibrant characters to life, making every episode a visual feast. When you take a break to play “Horizon Forbidden West” on your PS5, the TV automatically switches to the optimal settings for gaming, providing smooth, fluid motion and stunning detail.

Throughout the week, you use the Google Assistant to control the TV, search for shows, and even manage your smart home devices. The integration with Google TV makes it easy to switch between streaming services, live TV, and your favorite apps. And when you have guests over, the X-Wide Angle and X-Anti Reflection technologies ensure everyone gets a great view, no matter where they’re sitting.

Recommendations and Conclusion: Should You Buy It?

So, should you buy the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV? In a word: absolutely. It offers an outstanding combination of picture quality, sound, smart features, and design. Whether you’re a movie buff, a hardcore gamer, or someone who just loves binge-watching TV shows, this TV will elevate your viewing experience.

The exceptional picture quality, with its deep blacks and vibrant colors, is a feast for the eyes. The sound quality, thanks to the Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, is immersive and impressive for built-in speakers. Gamers will appreciate the PlayStation 5 exclusive features and the smooth 120 Hz refresh rate.

The smart features are robust and user-friendly, bringing all your favorite streaming apps together in one place. And with the added perks like the Sony Pictures CORE app and Studio Calibrated Modes, you get a lot of value.

While the Wi-Fi setup might be a bit tricky, and there are occasional sound glitches during game loading screens, these are minor issues in the grand scheme of things. The overall performance and features of the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV far outweigh these small quirks.

In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a new TV in 2024, the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV should be at the top of your list. It’s a versatile, high-performance TV that delivers on all fronts, making it a worthwhile investment for your home entertainment setup.

So go ahead, make some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to be blown away by the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV. Happy viewing!

Detailed Specifications

To provide a comprehensive review, let’s delve into the detailed specifications of the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV.

Display

  • Screen Sizes: 55 inches, 65 inches, 77 inches
  • Resolution: 4K Ultra HD (3840 x 2160)
  • Panel Type: OLED
  • Brightness: Peak Brightness up to 1000 nits
  • Contrast Ratio: Infinite
  • Color Gamut: XR Triluminos Pro
  • HDR Support: HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG
  • Refresh Rate: 120 Hz

Audio

  • Speakers: Acoustic Surface Audio+ with built-in subwoofer
  • Sound Modes: Standard, Cinema, Game, Sports, Music, Dolby Audio
  • Dolby Atmos: Yes
  • DTS Digital Surround: Yes

Smart TV Features

  • Operating System: Google TV
  • Voice Assistant: Google Assistant, Alexa
  • Streaming Services: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, YouTube, and more
  • Google Cast: Yes
  • Apple AirPlay 2: Yes

Connectivity

  • HDMI Ports: 4 (including 2 HDMI 2.1)
  • USB Ports: 3
  • Ethernet Port: 1
  • Wi-Fi: 802.11ac
  • Bluetooth: 5.0
  • Audio Out: Digital Optical, 3.5mm

Gaming Features

  • Input Lag: Less than 10ms
  • Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): Yes
  • Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM): Yes
  • Game Mode: Yes
  • PlayStation 5 Optimization: Yes

Design and Dimensions

  • Bezel: Ultra-thin
  • Stand: Metal feet with adjustable positions
  • Weight: Varies by size (approximately 18 kg for 55″, 22 kg for 65″, and 27 kg for 77″)
  • VESA Mount Compatibility: Yes

Energy and Environmental

  • Energy Efficiency Rating: A+++
  • Power Consumption: Varies by size (average 110W during typical use)
  • Eco-Friendly Features: Power saving modes, light sensor, recyclable packaging

Customer Support and Warranty

Sony offers robust customer support and warranty services for the BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV. Here are the details:

  • Warranty: Standard 1-year warranty with options to extend
  • Customer Support: 24/7 support through phone, email, and live chat
  • Repair Services: On-site repair services available
  • User Manual and Online Resources: Comprehensive user manual and a wealth of online resources, including setup guides, troubleshooting tips, and firmware updates

Real-World Performance: User Testimonials

To get a well-rounded perspective, let’s look at what real users have to say about their experience with the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV.

Positives

  1. Exceptional Picture Quality: Many users rave about the stunning picture quality. One user mentioned, “Watching movies on this TV feels like a theater experience. The colors are so vibrant, and the blacks are truly black.”
  2. Gaming Performance: Gamers particularly appreciate the TV’s performance. A PlayStation 5 owner shared, “This TV is a game-changer. The 120 Hz refresh rate and low input lag make gaming incredibly smooth. It’s the best gaming TV I’ve ever owned.”
  3. Sound Quality: The Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology has received praise for its immersive sound experience. “The sound coming from the screen is amazing. It feels like the audio is coming from the action, making it so much more immersive.”
  4. Smart Features: Users find the Google TV interface user-friendly and appreciate the extensive app support. “I love how easy it is to navigate through different streaming services. Google Assistant makes finding shows and movies so convenient.”

Constructive Criticism

  1. Wi-Fi Setup Issues: Some users have reported difficulties with the Wi-Fi setup, especially with dual-band routers. “Setting up the Wi-Fi took longer than expected. I had to configure my router settings to get a stable connection.”
  2. Sound Glitches in Gaming: A few gamers noted occasional sound glitches during game loading screens. “I noticed some sound cut-outs when loading games. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it can be a bit annoying.”
  3. Price Point: While most agree that the TV is worth the investment, some users feel the price is on the higher side. “It’s an amazing TV, but it is quite an investment. I had to save up for a while to afford it.”

Final Verdict

The Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV is a top-tier television that offers an unparalleled viewing experience. Its combination of exceptional picture quality, immersive sound, smart features, and sleek design makes it a standout choice in the market. Whether you’re a movie enthusiast, a dedicated gamer, or someone who enjoys high-quality streaming, this TV has something to offer.

While there are minor issues such as the Wi-Fi setup and occasional sound glitches during gaming, these are relatively small inconveniences in an otherwise outstanding package. The positive aspects far outweigh these minor drawbacks, making the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV a highly recommended choice for anyone looking to upgrade their home entertainment system.

In conclusion, if you’re in the market for a new TV in 2024, the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV should be at the top of your list. Its versatility, high performance, and advanced features make it a worthwhile investment that will transform your viewing experience. So, go ahead, make the leap, and enjoy a new level of entertainment with the Sony BRAVIA 8 Smart OLED TV. Happy viewing!

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