Samsung is adding to its domination of the so-called "LED TV" market by releasing its new 8500 Series into the marketplace.  As with the 6000, 7000, and 8000 series released earlier this year, the 8500 series is actually an LCD TV with LED backlighting, but this one promises local dimming technology for superior picture performance over previous edge-lit LED/LCD models.

Thin as a pin (1.6 inches deep to be exact), the new series will also include advanced networking and interactive features, which are quickly becoming standard as well. The set includes Samsung's Medi@2.0 suite, a widgets-based interface that delivers content from Yahoo!, USA Today (Sports), Twitter, YouTube, and others.

"For consumers who are looking for the ultimate HD centerpiece and high-level performance in their home theater, the Samsung 8500 Series delivers break-through quality and design," said John Revie, senior vice president of Visual Display Marketing for Samsung Electronics America. "The 8500 Series underscores Samsung's dedication to providing a full range of HDTVs that not only achieve the highest levels of picture quality, but also provide unique and immersive entertainment experiences through our Medi@2.0 suite."



Other features will include local dimming, a 240Hz refresh rate, Wide Color Enhancer Pro technology, Samsung's own Ultra Clear Panel, a claimed "7,000,000:1" dynamic contrast ratio [editor's note: these numbers are getting ridiculous], a 2ms panel response time, and an Energy Star v3.0 rating. There’s also Auto Motion Plus presets and a "Natural" mode, which Samsung says boasts a picture that can match or exceed the quality of any other LCD or plasma.

Each set will also feature Samsung's Touch of Color (ToC) bezel and a built-in tuner. If you're interested in hanging your new work of art, Samsung has a super-slim wall-mount solution (sold separately).

The 8500 Series will be available in two sizes. The 46-inch model (UN46B8500) will run $3,599.99, with a 55-incher (UN55B8500) ringing up at $4,499.99.  Expect both to start selling in September.

Where to Buy Online:

• UN46B8500 at Vanns.com
• UN55B8500 at Vanns.com
  

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• How is Samsung LED TV Different From LCD HDTV?
• What is the Best HDTV to Buy Today?
• LG 55LHX LED/LCD HDTV: Ultra Thin, Ultra Bright