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Sony Bravia KDL-52EX700

HDTV Review

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Audio & Menus

Well-designed menu shared among many Sony products.

The audio quality of the Sony KDL-52EX700 is one of the few things that performed differently depending on the size of the unit in the series. As a kind of editorial experiment, we’re reviewing every single size in the Sony EX700 line to learn how different sizes in the same series behave. The answer, for the most part, is ‘quite similarly,’ because they’re powered by the same processor and offer identical features. But there are some physical differences to account for, and audio quality is one of them.

The 52-inch version sounds much better, side-by-side, than the 32-inch (which we happen to have in-house right now). There are a few possibilities. One, the speakers are different. Though there’s no indication that they’re different in the specs, we’ve learned not to blindly trust specs sheets. Two, the resonance of a larger cabinet allows for a different quality of sound, even if the speaker size and power is exactly the same. Either way, the 52-inch model (KDL-52EX700) sounds richer and fuller.

Of course, the sound quality doesn’t compare to dedicated home theater sound system. Let’s just make that clear.

Many Sony devices, including HDTVs, the PlayStation 3, PSP, and others, uses the XrossMediaBar menu system. It’s a good menu, overall, which is why Sony has rolled it out on so many products. It’s also a clever marketing strategy, because it allows you to be instantly comfortable with each additional product after your first experience.

Menu Main Photo

The menu is surprisingly laggy, however, which is frustrating if you’re trying to make a quick adjustment without interrupting the movie you’re watching.

Menu 2 Photo

The instruction manual that ships with the Sony KDL-52EX700 is scant. You’ll find a more expanded version of the manual in the TV itself, presented as a searchable, onscreen version. Of course, if you can’t even turn your TV on, the trouble-shooting section of the manual is pretty useless. You can find the Sony KDL-52EX700’s manual online here.

Instruction Manual Photo
Other Models in the KDL-xxEX700 Series
For more information on other models in this series, check our Series Comparison Page.


Sony Bravia KDL-32EX700
32 in.


Sony Bravia KDL-40EX700
40 in.


Sony Bravia KDL-46EX700
46 in.


Sony Bravia KDL-60EX700
60 in.

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Sony Bravia KDL-52EX700
HDTV Review

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