Following up on the introduction of their new XBR2 and XBR3 lines of 40-inch and 46-inch 1080p LCD flat panels at the Home Entertainment Show in June, Sony now adds two 52-inch LCD flat panel models to the Bravia line.

Featuring the same 1080p resolution as their smaller brethren, the 52-inch KDL-52XBR2 ($6,500) and KDL-52XBR3 ($6,800) are expected to be available in November and can be pre-ordered now on SonyStyle.com.

One of the features exclusive to the Bravia line is Sony's Advanced Contrast Enhancer (ACE). With real-time image processing and optimization of backlight levels, ACE technology builds on the native (on-screen) contrast ratio of 1300:1, delivering a dynamic contrast ratio of up to 7,000:1. This means blacker blacks and enhanced shadow detail.

Like the previously announced BRAVIA XBRs, the new 52-inch models include Sony's BRAVIA Engine Pro™ full digital high-definition video processing system. Optimizing the video signal path, the system leverages Sony's Digital Reality Creation Multi Function Version Two Point Five (DRC-MFv2.5) with increased computing capabilities to up-convert both standard definition and high definition signals to full HD 1080p for display on the panel at its native resolution.

Sony's Live Color Creation technology, featuring Wide Color Gamut Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp (WCG-CCFL) backlight system, is also featured in the new 52-inch models. WCG-CCFL's color spectrum coupled with chroma signal processing allow for a wider, more realistic range of colors enhancing the picture. The KDL-52XBR3 model features a high-gloss piano black bezel finish, while the KDL-52XBR2 features a silver bezel.


Rounding out the XBR feature package is a built-in ATSC tuner, three HDMI inputs with 1080p compatibility (two rear, one side), a PC input, two high-definition component, one S-video and three composite inputs.


BRAVIA S2400 Series

Also introduced at CEDIA is the 40-inch KDL-40S2400 and 32-inch KDL-32S2400 models. Both feature 1366 x 768 screen resolution and are equipped with ACE technology for optimized dynamic contrast ratio of up to 5,000:1 (the on-screen native contrast ratio is 1300:1). Additionally, Sony's BRAVIA Engine™ delivers a clear, sharp picture from any source material.


The models' narrow, picture frame black bezel incorporates invisible bottom speakers with SRS TruSurroundXT™ and BBE Digital Enhancement technology. Other features include a built-in ATSC tuner, HDMI and PC inputs, as well as two high-definition component, two S-video and two composite inputs.

The KDL-40S2400 and KDL-32S2400 models will be available in October for about $2,600 and $1,700, respectively.

All of the new BRAVIA televisions are being offered direct at www.sonystyle.com and at Sony Style retail stores nationwide, as well as at authorized dealers around the country.