Introduction

Most TV companies tend to release their flagship models early in the year, which is why we have reviewed the top-tier models from LG, Panasonic, and Samsung already. Sony decided to release their brand-new flagship TV, the XBR-55HX950 (MSRP $3,499) in September of 2012. Is this sequel to the XBR-HX929 worth the long wait?

In a word, yes.

Let's start with what we didn't like about the HX950: the same stale menu interface, the inclusion of two separate ways to access internet content, and the narrow viewing angle. That about sums up the faults with the Sony HX950. Everything else was rather impressive.

Color accuracy and consistency was pretty good, as was motion performance. 3D was mostly a pleasant affair and the audio was decent on this TV, as well. The real reason to get excited about the HX950 is its mostly excellent use of local dimming, which we explain in detail here. To make a long story short, this feature mimics how a plasma TV works and makes the HX950's black levels darker. Does this make the HX950 worth its hefty price tag? We think so, but there are some drawbacks to this technology.