Samsung LCD TVs: contrast is the new black

samsung-r8.jpg

Samsung have updated their TV range across the board, with teh focus on their top-end M8 and mid-range designer R8 models. Remember the R7’s V-shape base? Now it’s become a silky smooth curve with a little light in the middle. Is that going to make you upgrade? No? How about some tasty spec upgrades and some delicious price downgrades. Like 15,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. Yeah, that’s right. Taste the black. Oh yeah, and FINALLY we get 3 HDMI inputs in a panel, along with a rainbow of other connection options.

Panels are expected to land in June. Details (and pricing) after the jump.

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M8 Series LCD: True 1080p panel

  • Contrast: 15,000:1
  • Response: 8ms
  • CCFL Backlight
  • HDMI 1.3 (and Anynet + HDMI-CEC)
  • 3 HDMI inputs (2 rear / 1 side)
  • 2 component; 2 composite; 1 PC
  • HD Tuner
  • Swivel stand
  • Auto wall mount support
  • 40-inch: $4,399; 46-inch: $5,499; 52-inch: $8,799

 

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R8 Series LCD: Designer mid panel

  • 1366 x 768
  • Contrast: 8,000:1
  • Response: 8ms
  • CCFL Backlight
  • HDMI 1.2 (and HDMI-CEC)
  • 3 HDMI inputs (2 rear / 1 side)
  • 2 component; 2 composite; 1 S-Video; 1 PC
  • HD Tuner
  • Swivel stand
  • Auto wall mount support (40-inch)
  • 26-inch: $1,799; 32-inch: $2,199; 40-inch: $3,299

 

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S8 Series LCD: Value range (but still damn good)

  • 1366 x 768
  • Contrast: 7,000:1
  • Response: 8ms
  • CCFL Backlight
  • HDMI 1.2 (no HDMI-CEC)
  • 2 HDMI inputs (2 rear)
  • 2 component; 2 composite; 1 S-Video; 1 PC
  • HD Tuner
  • Swivel stand
  • Auto wall mount support (40-inch & 46-inch)
  • Prices TBA

 

Prediction: The R8 is going to rule the school. If I’m wrong, may I lightning let me pick one up at warehouse prices.