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Introduction
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01.Tour & Design
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02.Blacks & Whites
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03.Color Accuracy
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04.Motion
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05.Viewing Effects
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06.Calibration
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07.Remote Control
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08.Connectivity
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09.Audio & Menus
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10.Formats & Media
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11.Power Consumption
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12.Vs RCA L40FHD41
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13.Vs JVC LT 42P300
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14.Vs Samsung LN40B650
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15.Conclusion
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16.Series Comparison
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17.Ratings & Specs
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18.Comments
Samsung LN40B530
Previous: Page 4
MotionNext: Page 6
Calibration
Viewing Effects Summary
Editorial Note: This is a review of the Samsung LN40B530. Test results are for this model, but should indicate the general performance of other sizes in the LNxxB530 series. The LNxxB530 series includes the following models: LN32B530, LN37B530, LN40B530, LN46B530, and LN52B530. Read here for more details on series differences.
• Decent viewing angle, for an LCD television
• Testing done using DisplayMate Software
Viewing Angle (5.78)
The Samsung LN40B530 has poor viewing angle, though an average one for an LCD TV. It loses 50% of its contrast at only 23 degrees. From the chart below, you can see the RCA L40FHD41 and Samsung LN40B650 had even narrower viewing angles, so none of them were great. If you need a TV for a very wide room, be sure to check out plasma TVs before you make your final purchase.
| Viewing Angle | |||||||
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| Compare the Samsung LN40B530 to other HDTVs | |||||||
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| RCA L40FHD41 40 inches |
JVC LT-42P300 42 inches |
Samsung LN40B650 40 inches |
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Reflectance (8.5)
The Samsung LN40B530 did a good job fending off reflective light from outside sources. Some TVs try a light dispersion technology that creates bizarre star patterns, but not the Samsung. If a light shines straight on, it creates a soft glow. When the light is coming in from an angle, it's almost hard to notice. Nice job, Samsung.
Video Processing (2.5)
The Samsung LN40B530 has just a few special processing features, and none of the 120Hz processing or motion smoothing that you frequently see in TVs.
| Setting | Claimed Function | Our Impression |
| Dynamic Contrast | 'You can adjust the screen contrast so that the optimal contrast is provided.' | Automatically adjusts contrast based on the image, but the delay time in processing makes for noticeable jumps from bright to dark. |
| Flesh Tone | Emphasize the 'pink flesh tones' | Detects some flesh tones and allows you to adjust them warmer or cooler |
| Edge Enhancement | 'Emphasize object boundaries' | Detects edges and slightly boosts contrast |
| Digital Noise Reduction | Helps 'reduce any static and ghosting' | Reduces constant flicker of noise, but if you set it too high, the result is a more cyclical appearance of blocky noise a few times a second. |
| Other Models in the LNxxB530 Series | ||||
| This is a review of the Samsung LN40B530. The other sizes of HDTVs in this series should be similar in terms of performance and usability. For details about any differences, click on the image to jump to the Series Comparison page. | ||||
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| Samsung LN32B530 32-inch |
Samsung LN37B530 37-inch |
Samsung LN46B530 46-inch |
Samsung LN52B530 52-inch |
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Shop for the Samsung LN40B530
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