Sony KD-65S8505C review

For its second generation of curved LCD TVs, Sony has stripped back the design and audio capabilities from those used on its 2014 curved TV debut in a (mostly sensible) bid to hit a much more approachable price point.

The 65-inch TV can hardly be considered a compromise option, though; it's still a native 4K TV, it's still got Triluminos colour technology, it's still got Sony's top-tier picture processing system and it's still equipped with the Android TV smart platform.

We liked

Sony's new processing system combines with the screen's Triluminos technology and 4K resolution to deliver pictures of spectacular detail, colour subtlety and brightness.

The design is attractively minimalistic too, and the introduction of Android TV adds lots more apps than Sony has been able to offer before.

We disliked

Black level response during dark scenes is solid rather than brilliant, and the dynamic black system causes some distracting flashes.

The menus can run sluggishly too, and the Android interface feels unfocussed and cumbersome.

Finally, the curved screen can cause some slightly distorted onscreen reflections - and the relatively shallow curve arguably doesn't contribute much.

Verdict

While a slightly average black level response and some clumsy dynamic contrast controls on the 65S8505C seem a little odd given Sony's previous prowess in such areas, the fact is that for much of the time the 65S8505C's pictures are actually outstandingly good.

Especially if you're looking for a quality 'family TV' rather than a dedicated screen for a home cinema room.