STACK #223 May 2023

TECH FEATURE

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GAME ON Smooth and jitter-free is the way to play, and a TV with a high refresh rate is important. Many TVs have a Game Mode to optimise play, and gamers should look out for specs like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and the aforementioned HDMI 2.1 connectivity. Check out our dedicated Gaming TV feature on pages 34–36 for more.

control options to play/pause, raise/lower volume, search for content, and more. The TV can also be integrated into a compatible smart home ecosystem to control linked devices like security cameras and video doorbells. You can see the pizza delivery arrive at the door during a movie; gradually dim the lights cinema-style, and more. SOUNDS GOOD Slimline smart TVs aren’t exactly renowned for their inbuilt speakers, but fortunately that’s changing. New models are starting to include multiple speakers in the rear of the panel for more powerful and directional audio, including Dolby Atmos support. And some brands feature

proprietary audio enhancement tech built-in that calibrates and adjusts the audio to suit the room, along with precise matching of sound to scene, and virtual surround upmixing. Adding a

soundbar is a must for the

most immersive audio experience,

especially one that’s designed to match the TV model (see page 40). Moreover, some 2023 TVs have introduced the option to sync the audio output from the TV’s speakers and the soundbar, so both are firing at you on all cylinders.

• See page 16 for some professional tips on getting the best performance from your 4K smart TV.

FULL STREAMAHEAD Your shiny new smart TV is a gateway to a world of entertainment, with many of the most popular streaming apps preloaded (depending on the manufacturer and model). And if a favourite app isn’t there, simply download it and install. (Note: someTV manufacturers may require you to open an account with them in order to download additional apps).

providing access to the latest blockbusters and classics from the Sony catalogue in up to 4K resolution with auto picture optimisation, and IMAX Enhanced mode on selected titles. And Samsung’s newTVs feature the company’s own free ad-supported on-demand service – Samsung TV Plus – boasting a variety of content, from movies, reality series and lifestyle shows, to news, documentaries and music TV channels.

With a Smart TV, there'll never be nothing to watch!

Many subscription streaming services now offer movies and TV shows in 4K, HDR and IMAX Enhanced, and the TV’s easy-to-navigate interface is a one stop entertainment hub that can be conveniently customised to deliver curated recommendations and personalised options for different users, based on search and watch history. As well as majors like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and Stan, smart TVs can offer even greater entertainment options,

depending on the brand you choose. Many Android TVs now include Google TV built-in, consolidating a range of streaming apps in one platform – that means hundreds of thousands of movies and TV shows, plus sports and more – along with convenient voice control: “Hey Google, play Frozen .” The latest Sony BRAVIA TVs are preloaded with the company’s BRAVIA Core streaming app,

Purchase a 55” or above 2023 Samsung TV from JB Hi-Fi before September 30 and get six months Kayo or Binge!* * Six months Kayo Basic or Binge Standard included on eligible TVs via redemption. Offer ends 30/9/2023. Redeem the voucher by 30/11/2023.

12 MAY 2023

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