There is a huge range of Sony Bravia LCD TV’s and the KDL32W550 0U is one of these, and they are at the top of the range. Although the 1920x1080p Full HD panel is now pretty standard, the “W” series displays was one of the first.
These feature full LCD televisions are very affordable and this particular model has 4 HDMI inputs as well as Applicast, which enables the unit to be connected to the internet. A USB port allows for handling of all types of photo, video or music files and it also comes with an Ethernet jack with which DLNA PC files can be stored, or can be used for the Applicast service.
Technology used includes 100Hz Motionflow and of course the Bravia engine image processing. Retailers are stocking these TV’s at reasonable pricing and this is one of the more attractive aspects of buying this technologically advanced TV.
It consists of a 32″ screen although it does not look as large as this because of the attractive glossy black bezel which frames it. They come packed with a protective film over all the parts which may get scratched. So one has to assume that these parts should be kept well protected! But this is the way of the world, even out cell phones come with these protective coverings and they get scratched eventually with use.
This is a compact 32″ television with a relatively small footprint so if you are short on space, it may be ideal for your use. I think it is a great looking television, although I have seen some reviewers say that they prefer the looks of the 32E5500 model. It is all a matter of taste really and if you think it looks good, you are the one who has to live with it.
Most Sony screens have a “Wega Gate” type menu, but the Sony KDL32W550 0U has done away with this for a more innovative user interface, much the same as the interface used by the Sony PlayStation 3. This is a very neat concept and I really like it, however other people may prefer the more traditional menus. The menu is displayed with icons rather than words such as “color”, “contrast” et cetera, so they may take some getting used to.
If you are a techie, you won’t have a problem with the menus, but my 75 year old father may have difficulty in knowing what the heck is going on. Then again it is highly unlikely he is going to go out and purchase one of these TV’s, he reckons the Sony he already has, must last him for the rest of his life, and it is after all a Sony, so it more than likely will.
The video processor is really good, perhaps not the best on the market, but certainly more than passable. Most of the people who are going to be using these television sets, probably wouldn’t know the difference, it is only if you know what to look for that you see how effectively it smoothes flicker.
In conclusion, if you want a great looking TV at a great price and want it to get admiring glances from your friends, buy the Sony KDL32W550 0U Bravia. You won’t go wrong, it’s a Sony!
