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Sony KDL-55NX723 review

Sony’s Bravia LCD TV range has an incredible array of features. Some of the models are basic no-frills designs that make them affordable for most buyers. At the other extreme are high-end models packed to the brim with more features than most buyers will ever need.

This review covers the Sony KDL55NX723, which is one of the feature packed models. This is one of the Internet TV models that Sony is proud to offer. This model is compatible with Sony’s Bravia Internet Video portal and buyers also have the ability to stream content from other sources in their home.

The Bravia KDL55NX723 is the widest of the Bravia KDL models at 55 inches. There are also 40-inch and 46-inch Bravia-KDL models.

If the simple KDL-55NX723 model is too expensive, there are less expensive NX713 models in 40-inch and 46-inch sizes. The specifications of the NX713 models are much less expensive. The price difference between the NX713 and NX723 models highlights the fact that the KDL55NX723 is not what anyone would call cheap. That fact disappears when a prospective customer experiences the style and performance of the KDL55NX723.

In the NX723 models, Sony continues to use the ultra-modern monolithic design. The screen has a flush surface that is bezel-less. Sony stands that match the design of the NX723 have a built-in subwoofer. These models look good with any decor, but they fit perfectly with rooms with a modern and minimalist design.

The KDL-55NX723BU is so slim that some wonder how it can work. Sony uses an OptiContrast LED panel to achieve the incredible depth of just 27mm. The frame around the screen is a glossy black with no background that looks great next to the brushed metal finish on the stand that comes with the unit. The point is that this unit stands out in any room and will be noticed by anyone walking into the room.

Better yet, the Bravia KDL55NX723 is more than just good looking. This model is the ultimate in connectivity. Some may find downward or side-facing connections problematic. Some cable adapters are used as component input. It’s a small price to pay for the incredibly slim depth of this model.

The Bravia KDL55NX723 has HDMI connection inputs, located, 2 each, on the side and on the bottom. These are for the optical digital output, PC input, audio return point, Ethernet port, and audio – headphone output.

Something extra nice are two USB ports. One of them is for use with portable hard drives. That allows recording from the unit’s built-in tuner. The other USB will be for other digital media storage drives. A pay TV slot is also provided. A popular feature can be accessed on the Sony Bravia Internet Video portal. Built-in Wi-Fi makes getting online extremely simple.

The Bravia Internet Video portal is not yet available everywhere, but for those who have access, there is an almost limitless variety of content available; BBCiPlayer, Eurosport, SkyNews, YouTube and much more. Most rate the package as the best selection of content on any TV.

For music lovers, Qricity’s unlimited music source plus Facebook and Twitter apps to connect to the social network are much appreciated. That means there is no need to turn on the PC or laptop.

One feature that is expected to be very popular is the built-in Skype capability. It is necessary to buy some auxiliary equipment to allow video calls without leaving the favorite sofa or armchair from the television.

For an internet browser, the Bravia KDL-55NX723BU uses the Opera browser. Operationally, there is no difference from being on your laptop or desktop PC after you get used to controlling the browser with the remote. For some, this takes some time.

The KDL55NX723BU rendering engine is Sony’s new X-Reality. This processor has what Sony calls XR200 processing. There are electronic modifications that really improve the smoothness of the movement. The wide range of TV picture optimization tools is like having a new age video game and a lot of fun to play. Due to the choice of tools, Sony made a brilliant decision and put the basic tools that we all know on the first screen. Access to the rest of the tools is found in a special menu.

The advanced image tools are for gamma correction, black correction, and contrast enhancement. Plus other advanced tools for edge and detail highlighters. Photoshop addicts will love this feature of the KDL-55NX723.

The KDL-55NX723 is 3D compatible and has a built-in IR emitter. 3D glasses are not included. To avoid the cost of true 3D, we expect many users to apply simulated 3D to 2D content. The quality will surprise most users.

The KDL-55NX723 has an amazing Electronic Program Guide (EPG in the manual). Shows are recorded via standard USB ports, as mentioned above, but you need an external hard drive which is not included with the TV.

An amazing feature is a camera sensor controlled by facial recognition software. This equipment automatically activates the designated functions according to the state of the room where the TV is located. An empty room triggers a certain set of functions. The entry of a human being into an empty room triggers a different set of functions. The Sony KDL55NX723 even sounds an alarm if someone goes within 1 meter of the screen for more than a set period of time.

The sound system can automatically adjust depending on where you sit by changing the volume balance of the side speaker. This is all complicated, but the settings menu guides you through all the settings and provides visual examples on the screen of what is happening.

Fortunately, initial setup of the Sony KDL-55NX723BU is easy. Intuitive wizards make setup easy by guiding the user through the most technical and complicated sections. Even Freeview channel tuning and other normal essential installation settings are also easy to complete.

Users will love the fact that all of this setup can be done without losing sight of the programs that are currently on the screen in the form of content. The menu surrounds the active TV screen to accomplish this. The history and favorites section is well thought out and makes returning to frequently watched channels and shows unexpectedly simple.

For video operation, the Sony KDL55NX723BU plays more types of files. It had no problem streaming most of the available formats such as AVCHG, XiD, WMV and AVI. Video is best when played from a USB flash drive.

Right now using the text number system with the remote is just too complicated and we hope most people won’t bother to get over the learning curve, especially when the trusty laptop is usually so to reach.

There is a fantastically useful i-Manual, which is much appreciated as it describes all the features of the set in detail on screen. You may never look at the included paper version.

The functions of the remote control to watch TV or play video are good and functional. There are easy to find and use keys for the i-Manual and a good number of picture presets that are very useful.

One of the best features is the ability to use the 3D simulator for quality 2D content. The ability to make 2D look so clear and add perspective may mean that many users won’t be spending the money on the additional equipment needed to view true 3D content for some time. Many of those who have seen the simulated 3D 2D content expressed their appreciation for watching 3D TV without the 3D glasses.

Some of the technical problems of 3D television are solved or masked with the smooth mode Sony Bravia KDL55NX723. The bottom line for the TV’s performance is surprisingly impressive performance for both 2D and 3D content. That’s good because this is the performance you expect at the price paid for this model.

As with most ultra-thin flat-panel TVs, the hard-to-find speakers have passable sound quality. Listening to most high volume fast action scenes, especially DVD content, you can really notice that the quality of the sound content is lacking. You’ll need to use Sony’s built-in subwoofer if you want to give the bass sounds a boost in your content. There is a range of sound modes that improve sound performance when matched to room acoustics.

There’s no getting around the fact that the Sony Bravia NX723 series are all expensive TVs and the Bravia KDL55NX723 is at the top of that bunch. It’s all the built-in features, including easy built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, amazing 3D simulation of 2D content plus that important, easy-to-use i-Manual that makes installing, using and enjoying this TV a joy.

As they say, you get what you pay for and in this case, despite the hefty price tag, the saying remains true for the Sony Bravia KDL55NX723.

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