Sony Bravia KDL-46EX403 46in LCD TV

Switching to SD Freeview, and as you’d expect, the size really doesn’t do the content any favours; watching the Tour de France on ITV4, the artefacts around the shoulders of the cyclists were pretty distracting. Even an upscaled DVD didn’t look quite as crisp on the Sony as on my 37in Panasonic, which also has a traditional backlight. Main channels like BBC 1 are perfectly watchable, but you’ll probably find yourself crying out for HD content before too long.

If size matters, be prepared for a few compromises at this price

If it’s a big screen on a budget you’re after, then the 46EX403 is worth a look; but if most of your viewing is still standard definition, or you have a lot of content on a home media server, then there are stronger contenders out there.

Verdict

Although lacking in DLNA functionality, there are some good touches in this set, including Freeview HD. It’s a keen price for such a large screen but, given its size, it really needs to have HD content pumped through it to make an impression. ®

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