Sony XBR-X930D Bravia Review

We were able to view this model alongside the X930D from last year. The new model has superb up-scaling and conversion of standard definition, HD, DVD, and BluRay incoming content. Sony's new advanced (video) noise reduction gives their newer models an excellent smooth quality. Sony's up-conversion technology is creating a 4K-like picture with normal everyday resolution signals. This is a great strategy and Sony is able to show off their superior processing.
The X930D has it all in terms of picture features, High Dynamic Range, X1 Processor, and X-Reality Pro up-scaling algorithm, and widened color gamut Triluminous Display technology. All this combines for a fantastic picture.
How does the Sony X930C compare with an LG 4K OLED TV? We love OLED technology, so for a 4K UHD signal we give the edge to the LG OLED. But we believe Sony has the best processing and outer panel of the 4K TVs, so for 1080p and lower signals we believe this TV outperforms the LG 4K OLED.
Detail of Sony X930D 

Picture Quality

HDR (High Dynamic Range)

The focus TV feature for 2016/2017 is HDR. HDR extends the range that a pixel in an LCD TV can show. This applies to the brightness and luminosity of images. Contrast is enhanced by increased brightness rather than deeper blacks. Rather than just increase the brightness of the picture overall though, the real purpose of HDR is to increase contrast in various image areas of the picture. It improves the presentation in the brighter parts of the picture and this creates more contrast with surrounding darker parts of the picture. Since picture contrast is one of the primary features in improving perceived depth, HDR is considered a major picture quality improvement even though it may not increase the overall contrast of the panel a lot. Bright colors receive enhanced purity. A good HDR image will show better shadow detail, and the scenes that you will notice the most are those with light illuminating images, especially outside sunlight effects, or a room that has sunlight coming in through a window and illuminating parts of the room. HDR content is and will be in short supply for a while.
In the X930D the X-tended Dynamic Range Pro technology is the workhorse in enhancing contrast with HDR and non-HDR content by manipulating zonal backlight flows. I would describe Sony's backlight manipulation as more subtle than those of some other competitors like Samsung.

Triluminous Display – Color Rendition - Contrast

This wide-gamut color technology has been fantastic for Sony for a couple years. It produces much more realism and true-to-life color renditions than most of Sony's competitors, and in general takes less calibration effort to obtain a proper picture solution. The HDR contrast enhancement technology works well with the Triluminous display to provide incredible light flow through colors and enhance areas of the on-screen picture which are lit by windows or lighting. This all adds up to a more 3-dimensional picture quality depth even with HD signals. This is what we're looking for. The colors are not over saturated as they are with some, but they still have plenty of pop and are beautiful. The outer panel on the X930D is what really sets it apart from the lower priced 4K Sony's. It's also what adds so much to the cost. It creates the depth, richness, and vibrant colors and contrast that make this TV so desirable.

Up-Conversion of HD to 4K

Up-scaling and conversion is the most important aspect of any 4K UHD TV for 2016/2017 due to the dearth of 4K content, and Sony is the best at it in my view. The reasons are the excellent combination of the 4K X-Reality PRO up-scaling Algorithm technology used with the new 4K Processor X1 engine. On the X930D panel a good HD signal just looks incredible. Movies are also excellent and we recommend a room light condition of moderate to low light for this TV to unleash its full capabilities.

Side Angle Viewing

The old Achilles heal of LED backlit TVs cannot be fully remedied, even with an outer panel this absorbent. Color saturation and contrast begin degrading at around 20 degrees off center. On the bright side, it does not degrade severely, nor does it get much worse the further off center you view the TV.

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