STACK #223 May 2023

TECH FEATURE

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SMART TV GLOSSARY

Aspect Ratio The width and height ratio of the screen. Smart TVs have an aspect ratio of 16.9, which means the width of the picture is 16 equal parts and the height nine. Dolby Atmos Dolby’s proprietary audio format that adds height (overhead) channels to 5.1 and 7.1 surround for 360° sound. DolbyVision Dolby’s proprietary HDR format that optimises content scene-by-scene eARC Enhanced Audio Return Channel HD High Definition HDMI High Definition Media Interface that transmits video and audio streams via a single cable HDR High Dynamic Range, which elevates details in bright and dark scenes, and widens contrast. HDR10 HDR format that optimises content as a whole HDR10+ Optimises HDR content scene-by-scene (created by Samsung) IMAX Enhanced A larger aspect ratio with enhanced image quality (on supported content) LED Light-Emitting Diode LCD Liquid Crystal Display Mini LED Light-Emitting Diodes that are 75 per cent smaller than regular LEDs NanoCell A filter layer designed to improve colour depth on LG TVs NeoQLED Samsung QLED TVs that use Mini LED backlighting OLED Organic Light-Emitting Diode QLED Quantum Dot Light-Emitting Diode QNED A combination of Quantum Dot and NanoCell technology with Mini LED backlighting used in LG TVs Quantum Dots Nanocrystals that enhance colour Refresh Rate The number of times a TV refreshes its frame rate every second, measured in Hertz (Hz) SD Standard Definition Viewing Angle The maximum angle at which a TV screen can be viewed without losing brightness and colour vibrancy ULED Ultra Light-Emitting Diode used in Hisense TVs UHD Ultra High Definition UPSCALING Increases the pixel count of low resolution video to match the pixel count of a high resolution screen 1080p A picture resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels (Full HD) 4K A picture resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels 8K A picture resolution of 7680 x 4320 pixels

It’s that time of year again! The latest range of smart TVs have been revealed to wow us with even better picture quality, new features, and tech advancements. Whether you’re purchasing a smart TV for the very first time, upgrading to the latest model, or considering a second set for the bedroom, our handy buying guide will help you make a more informed decision about which shiny new 4K TV best suits your needs and budget. Words Scott Hocking

• See pages 18–3 2 for what’s new in TV tech for 2023, and all the hot new models coming from the major brands.

SETA BUDGET A smart TV is a long-term

up is good for a bedroom or study; 55”– 65” will suit a modestly sized lounge room or living area; and if you’ve got the space, go bigger with a set that’s 75”–85” and above (see page 16). Get out the tape measure beforehand to ensure the TV will fit comfortably on an existing entertainment cabinet, or there’s sufficient wall space for mounting. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Most TVs include a stand to sit it atop an entertainment unit, but if you want it on the wall, panels are becoming much thinner and more conducive to almost flush wall mounting

investment, so a quality model that will last is the way to go. There are plenty of options

available at a variety of price points from all the big brands, and premium displays like OLED and Mini LED are now a lot more affordable. There’s a TV out there to suit all budgets, so ultimately it comes down to the size of the screen, level of picture quality, and features you want. SIZE DOES MATTER The first thing to consider is how big and where you’re going to put it. A 100” screen might be great, but not for a small apartment. 43”and

with a slim fit bracket. And there are a variety of wall mounting options – from

MAY 2023

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