STACK #235 May 2024

YOUR

TO MOVIES, TV, MUSIC, GAMING & TECH

ESSENTIAL GUIDE

jbhifi.com.au/stack

ISSUE 235 MAY ’24

WIN! STACK Issue 235 MAY 2024 “Good evening and welcome to television.”

NEW TVs for 2024

• BIG SCREENS & LIFESTYLE TVs • THE LATEST TV TECH • 10 TOP TIPS FOR BUYING A TV INSIDE: NEW SOUNDBARS FOR THE LATEST TVS TV GAMING FEATURES EXPLAINED

jbhifi.com.au/stack

jbhifi.com.au/stack

ISSUE 235 MAY ’24

MOVIES&TV

ISSUE 235 MAY ’24

GAMING

Furiosa Only in cinemas from May 23

IN-STORE AT

hot

YOUR MONTHLY MOVIES&TV GUIDE TO WHAT’S

YOUR MONTHLY GAMING GUIDE TO WHAT’S

hot

IN-STORE AT

WIN A SAMSUNG 65” OLED 4K TV & SOUNDBAR

PERKS see page 4 for details

CONTENTS

ISSUE 235 MAY 2024

TECH 8-12 10 things to look for in a smart TV 14 What’s new in TV tech for 2024 16 TV smart features and surround lighting 18-32 The hot new TVs for 2024 34-40 New soundbars for 2024 50 Audio-Technica TWX7 earbuds review 52 New smartphones out this month 54 Square Register payment tech 56 New tech at JB MUSIC FLIP MAG AND READ FROM BACK 2 Take 5/Producer Spotlight/ Art of the Album 6-7 Cover feature: Billie Eilish 8-12 The Music Room: Troy Cassar-Daley, Angus & Julia Stone. and more 14-15 What’s out this month 22 Force of Nature : After The Dry 23 One Love : Becoming Bob Marley 24 Mean Girls so fetch! 26 Drive-Away Dolls 28 Revisiting Lawrence of Arabia 30 New from Imprint 32 Game on! Board games 34 Out this month GAMING 36 Take 5/Merch of the Month/Game changers! 38 Paper Mario: The Thousand Year Door 40 F1 24 interview 42 TopSpin 2K25 Q&A 44 Elgato Neo 46 Stellar Blade Q&A 48 Out this month/Wham, bam, game exam! 50 Fast forward/Q5 42-44 Screens for games 46-47 Top TV accessories 48 TV installation made easy 16 Vital Vinyl MOVIES & TV 18 Take 5/Filmmaker’s signature/ On the radar/In development 19 Merch of the month/Charts/Socials 20 Cinema: Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

WELCOME

Many moons ago, not long after we kicked off STACK , a colleague and I were conversing with the CEO of a large electronics brand at a video game show. He told us that the lifespan of TV technology (not the TV itself) was no more than four years. We were both owners of ten-year-old, power-burning plasma TVs at the time and were naturally shocked at what we believed was an insane statement. That was, of course, until we upgraded. Only then did the comment make sense. Four or five years in consumer tech can be like stepping from the Stone Age to the Bronze Age with leaps in technology, and like smartphones and even earbuds, TV tech continues to advance at a rapid pace. For example, five years ago, there was no Mini LED, AI, TV speaker and soundbar synchronisation, and customisable operating systems with wider app selections. And the good news is that in 2024, these features can be found on televisions across all budgets. May is always our big visual spectacular, where we unpack the latest tech behind the screens, and this year is a belter! From supersized screens to AI-powered upgrades in picture upscaling and wireless connect boxes that transmit 4K video to the world’s first glare-free certified OLED TV, there’s much to be excited about. So, if you’re still watching a ten-year-old LED TV (or even a plasma), or are a movie buff or gamer keen to upgrade to the next iteration of OLED, QLED, or QNED, we’ve got all the answers. There’s never been a better time to trade up. Paul Jones, Editor-in-Chief

jbhifi.com.au/stack

Founder Nic Short Editor-in-Chief Paul Jones Tech Editor Scott Hocking Music Editor Zoë Radas

Music Consultant Mike Glynn Marketing Manager Fleur Parker

Social Media Manager Glenn Cochrane Production Manager Craig Patterson Correspondence STACK editor@stack.com.au

Chief Contributors Gill Pringle, Bob Jones Contributors

Games & Online Editor Amy Flower Movie & TV Editor Glenn Cochrane Creative Director Gary Siewert Movies Consultant Kerrie Taylor Games Consultant Sachi Fernando

Jeff Jenkins, Simon Lukic, Billy Pinnell, Denise Hylands, Simon Winkler, Jake Cleland, Holly Pereira, Adam Colby, Bec Summer, Dan Nicholson, Alex Deutrom, Michael Irving, Jacqui Picone

RATINGS GUIDE

Parental guidance recommended

Recommended for mature audiences

Not suitable for people under 15. Under 15s must be accommpanied by a parent or adult guardian

Restricted to 18 and over

General

Disclaimer STACK is published by Scribal Custom Pty Ltd (ACN 092 362 135). © Copyright Scribal Custom Pty Ltd, 2024 All rights reserved. All material appearing in this publication is copyright unless otherwise stated or it may rest with the provider of the supplied material or advertisement. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Scribal Custom Pty Ltd. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of advertisements or information. Whilst care has been taken in the research and preparation of this publication, the publishers, writers or anyone else associated cannot accept any responsibility for any loss, injury or hardship arising from the content contained herein or reliance therefrom, howsoever caused, and it remains your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness and usefulness of any such content. Views expressed are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher or the editor. By the very nature of this publication, things change daily and we cannot take responsibility for any changes or inaccuracies that occur subsequent to going to press.

For all the latest in TECH , MOVIES , TV , GAMING and MUSIC

follow STACK on SOCIAL MEDIA

STACK Magazine

@STACKMag

stackmagazine

@stackmag

STACKPresents

WIN A SAMSUNG 65” OLED 4K TV & SOUNDBAR

PRIZE INCLUDES: 1 x Samsung 65” S95D OLED 4K Smart TV 1 x Samsung Q990D Q Series 11.1.4 Channel Soundbar

NOT A PERKS MEMBER? Join now and enter for your chance to win. PERKS MEMBERS SCAN THE QR CODE TO ENTER

SCAN TO JOIN & ENTER! Terms & conditions apply

For full terms and conditions, please visit: https://www.jbhifi.com.au/blogs/competitions/jb-hi-fi-perks-samsung-tv. Only JB Hi-Fi Perks members who are Australian residents may enter. The Promoter is JB Hi-Fi Group Pty Ltd (ABN 37 093 114 286) of Podium Level, 60 City Road, Southbank VIC 3006 (“Promoter”). Entrants must login to their JB Hi Fi Perks account (or alternatively join JB Hi-Fi Perks and login) and answer the question on the competition page. Entrants must remain a JB Hi-Fi Perks member until the date the competition is drawn. The competition commences on 1/5/24 at 12:00 AM and closes 31/05/24 at 11:59 PM. The winners will be the best valid entry as judged by the judging panel, having regard to skill, creativity, and originality, at the Promoter’s Premises on 7/06/2024 at 11:00 AM. The total number of competition winners in this competition is one. The winner will be notified by email and their names will be published online on our winners page for 90 days from the date of verification of the winner. Only one entry per person will be permitted. Total prize value is up to $7898 (including GST), as at 1/5/24.

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

STACK ’ s TECH tips

Turn it off. Like any tech,TVs have A brand-new TV will last much longer with a little TLC. Here’s how.

a lifespan, so avoid leaving them on constant standby mode 24/7.Turn it off when you go to bed – it’ll be good for the environment and your hip pocket. Keep it clean! Dust is the enemy of all electrical devices, and it can damage the internal components andTV screens. Give it a thorough clean at least once a week with a dry microfibre cloth. Never use abrasive cleaning products on yourTV. Always refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations if in doubt. Space, man. TVs heat up during use, so giving them breathing room for ventilation is essential.You won’t need to worry about a wall-mountedTV, but if you’re slotting one into a unit, leave at least 100mm of space around the frame. Surge protection. Invest in a good surge protection solution – your electrical devices will thank you for it. Bright lights. Monitor yourTV's brightness and contrast levels – most will be set to maximum at the factory. By lowering these, you can extend theTV’s life – and enjoy more balanced picture quality.

DYK?

MAY

American Philo Taylor Farnsworth demonstrated the first electronic television transmission he invented in San Francisco in 1927. Farnsworth was only 21 years old and had lived in a house without electricity until he was 14.

Technology has become an integral part of Australian lifestyles and continues to advance in leaps and bounds. From smartphones to smart homes, STACK keeps you up to date on the latest consumer tech in user-friendly terms, along with key points to consider before you buy. If you love tech, you’re in the right place.

What tech has been floating the boat of the writers at STACK recently? You can find it right here every month.

EDITOR’S CHOICE

1968

What was the hottest tech in…

In a world where TV designers continually strive to perfect realistic colour, Australia was late to the party with colour TV. The format was partially introduced to U.S. audiences in 1954. However, it wouldn’t reach Australia for another 21 years. But while we Aussies languished in a world of black and white, global TV manufacturers were striding ahead with significant technical advances in colour.

De’Longhi Rivelia Fully Automatic Coffee Machine You simply can’t beat a cup of coffee brewed using freshly ground beans, and the new De’Longhi Rivelia Fully Automatic Coffee Machine is a no-fuss solution to bean-to-cup prep – just select your desired brew from the display menu and press a button.

Sony would emerge to lead the pack in the late 1960s when it introduced Trinitron. The Japanese electronics giant initially entered the TV market in 1960. Through a series of expensive learning curves, Sony’s engineers developed a pioneering picture tube that was cost-effective to produce.

Christened the Trinitron, the first TV set rolled off the production line and into Japanese retail outlets in 1968. While the 12-inch KV1210 had a higher price tag than its competitors, it was streets ahead in the quality stakes. Widely considered the first modern colour television, it was easy to use, and the all-important image was sharper than anything before it. It proved a successful combination, with the technology even earning Sony an Emmy Award in 1973. When Sony eventually dropped the Trinitron branding in 2008, it had sold 280 million units.

Its point of difference to other automatic machines out there is two interchangeable bean hoppers for easy switching between different bean types, adding variety to your daily cuppa. We also loved the Bean Adapt function that grinds and brews to perfection, according to the bean type. Rivelia makes a delicious espresso and regular coffee, and there’s a recipe to suit all tastes, with 16 customisable presets to choose from. And favourites can be saved to four user profiles and ready to go according to daily coffee routines. De’Longhi’s Rivelia brings the luxury of barista-style coffee home with many choices, and gets our highest recommendation.

In 2024, it’s never been easier to set up a full cinema experience at home. Projectors and accompanying audio equipment at JB can now deliver the full blockbuster experience from the comfort of your couch. Next month, we’re looking at projectors for all budgets, and we’ll pull together a buying guide to take the pain out of picking what’s best for you. On The Radar

MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au

6

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

10 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A SMART TV The new smartTVs for 2024 have been revealed, bringing supersize screens and the latest picture processing tech. Whether you’re buying your very first smart TV or upgrading to the latest model, here are ten key things to consider and look out for. Words Scott Hocking

MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au

8

FEATURE TECH

the beauty of 4K. Moreover, video shot using a 4K camera will really pop on a big screen 4K TV. Most smart TVs have inbuilt image processing and intelligent picture controls that adjust and optimise the quality according to the amount of ambient light in a room, so there’s no more need to fiddle with brightness, colour, and contrast settings.

Picture upscaling is another feature to look out for. This enhances SD and HD content to near 4K quality (depending on the quality of the source resolution), giving old TV shows and DVDs a shiny new look. Plus, some movies on Blu-ray discs can look every bit as good as a native 4K transfer when upscaled. If you’re a movie buff, look for a TV that has Filmmaker Mode, which disables any picture processing to present the movie exactly as the director intended it to be seen. 3. OLED or Mini LED TV? This will depend on your budget. OLED is a premium TV tech (and worth every penny), while Mini LED can be more affordable and is now advanced enough to deliver near OLED picture quality in terms of true blacks and contrast.

1. Screen size

A TV with a wide viewing angle is recommended, so there's no reduction in colour and contrast when you aren’t seated directly in front of the screen. 2. Picture quality This should also be at the top of your list, for obvious reasons – you want the very best that your budget allows. 4K Ultra HD has become the standard resolution for today’s smart TV displays – that’s four times the resolution of Full HD 1080p. You’ll find a wide range of streaming content in 4K, as well as physical 4K Blu-ray discs, so there's plenty of native content to take full advantage of

The first, and perhaps most important, thing to consider is the size of the screen and where you’ll put your new TV. Will it be mounted on the wall or sit atop an entertainment unit? Supersize screens of 65-inches and above are becoming the go-to for many Aussie homes, and bigger can be better as long as you’ve got the space – a 98” screen might be luxurious, but can be overwhelming in a small apartment or room. Measure up your wall space or entertainment unit beforehand to ensure that you get the right fit, and also the distance between the couch and the screen. There’s immersive viewing and then there’s sitting way too close!

9

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

6. Connectivity Smart TVs connect wirelessly via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, while HDMI is the standard connection that transmits video and audio via a single cable from an external device like a games console, PC, 4K Blu-ray player, or

10 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A SMART TV continued

streaming device. Make sure that the TV you want has enough HDMI ports to accommodate all of your devices simultaneously. Most of today’s smart TVs have up to four HDMI ports, which include dedicated HDMI ARC or eARC ports for connecting a soundbar. And many new models support HDMI 2.1 connection for more bandwidth, smoother play, and reduced screen tearing when gaming. USB ports are also standard in smart TVs and handy for recording your favourite free-to-air TV shows onto a flash drive, or playing back stored audio/video content and image files.

OLEDs have the advantage over LED

backlighting because each pixel is self-illuminating, meaning they can turn themselves off to create perfect blacks, and also reach greater peak brightness and contrast ratios of dark and light. No backlighting also gives OLEDs a wide viewing

your favourite movie in 4K HDR and you’re guaranteed to see details that you’ve never noticed before! There are three types of HDR: standard HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. The latter two are the premium formats, optimising content scene-by-scene for a visible uptick in quality over HDR10. HDR has been a staple of 4K Blu-ray discs and is now widely supported for streaming content. 5. Refresh rate How well a TV can handle fast moving scenes can make or break an action movie, sports match, or gaming session. That’s why a TV’s refresh rate matters – the number of times individual frames are refreshed is measured in Hz, and the higher the number, the better. Many of today’s TVs have a native refresh rate of 120Hz, while newer models have upgraded this to a variable refresh rate (VRR) up to 144Hz, which is great news for gamers. You’ll also come across dedicated motion smoothing modes like Motion Rate 200, which also uses frame sampling to reduce any blur or judder.

angle with no fading of colours and contrast, and they produce less blue light, which is good for the eyes. Mini LED displays use tens of thousands of tiny LED backlights to produce a bright and colourful picture with strong contrast. Precise control of the brightening and dimming of image zones reduces any distracting blooming or halo effects around bright objects in a dark scene, like a streetlight. Premium Mini LED TVs with full array local dimming split the LED array into zones, so that specific areas of a picture can be dimmed where required to create true blacks and better shadow detail. 4. HDR – High Dynamic Range A standard feature on today’s 4K TVs, HDR brings out the best in 4K content, such as more vivid colours, deeper blacks, and ultra fine details in objects and subjects, like the weave of clothing or facial stubble. An HDR grade also adds a warmer, more natural look to a picture, and is championed by movie buffs for creating an organic appearance to movies that were shot on film. Play

7. Sound

Slimline smart TVs are now packing improved audio, with some integrating up-firing speakers, a subwoofer, and Dolby Atmos support for greater immersion, along with screen-specific sound via speakers located directly behind the screen itself. You’ll find various intelligent audio modes on many models that can customise sound to best suit a room’s layout, upmix audio for virtual surround or Atmos, and enhance dialogue and sports commentaries. Soundbar synchronisation on compatible TVs will further expand the soundscape by combining the output from the TV speakers and the soundbar, or using the TV as a centre speaker for a multi-channel soundbar. (See page 34.)

10 MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au

10 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A SMART TV continued

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

9. Smart features

8. UI and apps The TV’s user interface is the central hub where you access subscription streaming and catch-up TV apps, many of which come preloaded. Android TVs often include Google TV built

Virtual assistants like Alexa or Google can be built-in, and when a smart TV is integrated into a smart home ecosystem, you can use it to control devices like lighting and access security camera live video (see page 16 for more).

10. Gaming

Smooth and fluid gaming with no blur or jitter is the way to play, and most smart TV’s cater for gamers with a suite of dedicated features to optimise play. Look for a Game Mode and specs like ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), AMD FreeSync Premium, and HDMI 2.1 support (see page 42 for more).

in for one-stop app access, while some of the big brands have proprietary OS – such as Hisense’s VIDAA and LG’s webOS – and offer bonus channels like Samsung TV Plus and Sony’s BRAVIA Core streaming service.

How to tell a QNED from a QLED, ULED and OLED Perusing the various types ofTV display tech means deciphering a variety of similar sounding acronyms. Here’s what you need to know.

QLED Quantum dot Light– Emitting Diode Quantum dots are tiny

QNED Quantum Nano-Emitting Diode LG’s proprietary QNED TVs are LCD-based displays that combine mini LED backlighting with thousands of dimming zones, quantum dots for precise colours, and the brand’s NanoCell tech. NanoCell is a layer of nanoparticle pixels that filters dull colours and unwanted light, resulting in bolder colours across a variety of viewing angles and a brighter display than traditional LED TVs. Their excellent colour contrast makes QNED displays perfect for viewing HDR content in a brightly lit room.

ULED Ultra LED Hisense’s proprietary ULED display is a combination of tech patents: ultra local dimming, ultra wide colour gamut, ultra 4K resolution, and ultra smooth motion rate – with the emphasis on ultra! ULED TVs are traditional LED TVs that are augmented by a grayscale panel that sits between the display and the backlighting to create deeper blacks. The latest Hisense ULED displays also incorporate quantum dot tech to increase brightness and colour.

OLED Organic Light-Emitting Diode OLED displays don’t use an LED backlighting source, because each pixel emits its own light, which can be switched off to create the pure blacks and high contrast that OLED TVs are renowned for. The ‘organic’ bit is a carbonised film through which a current is passed to create light and colour. OLED displays have a wider viewing angle than LED TVs, and better response times to reduce blur in fast moving images. They're also more energy efficient, since there’s no backlighting to power. You’ll also come across QD OLED, a hybrid display that adds quantum dot tech to increase colour and brightness.

nanocrystals that boost colour and brightness, improving a TV’s LED backlighting – ergo, QLED. QLED TVs display extremely accurate colours with better saturation, and their high peak brightness keeps the picture sharp and vibrant in a sunny room. Then there's Neo QLED (neo being ‘new’), which uses mini LED backlighting for more precise light control, keeping colour and contrast consistent for a wide viewing angle.

12 MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

From AI-powered processors and improved upscaling, to wireless transmission and a glare-free certified screen, smartTV tech is getting a whole lot smarter. Words Scott Hocking WHAT’S NEW IN TV TECH FOR 2024

The Zero Connect Box

This innovative box that eliminates external cable clutter was introduced

in 2023 with LG’s M3 OLED and makes a return this year for the new OLED M4. It enables wireless transmission of audio and video at 4K resolution and 144Hz up to 10m from the TV. External devices like a games console or 4K Blu-ray player are connected to the box’s HDMI ports, and games and movies are then beamed to the TV. Clever algorithms detect the optimal transmission path, and will switch paths should people or pets get in the way.

AI-powered processors and upscaling

Trending in 2024 TVs More Mini LED Mini LED tech continues to advance, and this year many of the big brands are offering a greater range of mini LED models, with more local dimming zones to maintain an accurate balance of dark and light areas in a picture. Big screens Supersize screens are go this year, with many brands upsizing their ranges with models from 65” up to 85” only. More mega 98” and 100” screens are also available on selected models for that true home cinema experience.

Processors, or chipsets, that

Alpha 9 AI 4K Gen 6. The Alpha 11 also powers LG’s AI Director Processing,

3 processor, the brain of the new QN900D Neo QLED 8K TV, which powers 8K Upscaling Pro, bringing greater clarity, detail and depth, and boosting 4K content to up to 90% the resolution of native 8K.

power a TV are now integrating new AI based tech that uses advanced algorithms

refining colours by analysing frequently used shades that best capture the mood of a scene, as intended by the filmmaker. And brightness is mapped and controlled pixel-by-pixel for sharper, more lifelike images. Then there's Samsung’s NQ8 AI Gen

to analyse and enhance clarity and colour, and upscale content. LG’s new M4 and G4 OLED TVs are equipped with the new Alpha 11 AI Processor, which delivers a 70% improvement in graphic performance and 30% faster processing speed compared to its predecessor, the

The world’s first glare-free certified OLED TV

OLED TVs can be reflective in a bright room and Samsung has the solution this year with the global debut of a glare-free certified OLED – exclusive to the S95D series.* This anti-glare feature uses a hard coating layer and surface coating pattern to reduce reflections and maintain colour accuracy and sharpness during daylight viewing, as well as minimising glare from ambient light sources like a lamp.

VRR 144Hz TV refresh rates generally

peaked at 120Hz, but this year sees more brands upgrading to a variable refresh rate of up to 144Hz, which is great news for gamers who need reduced input lag and faster response time.

* The S95D range has been independently verified as OLED Glare Free: Reflection Glare UGR <10, Discomfort Glare UGR <22, Disability Glare UGR <34 by UL LLC (UL Solutions), Certificate Number: V647799 – 01/03/2024.

Future TV tech LG OLED T

The world’s first wireless transparent OLED TV was unveiled at CES 2024, and yes, you read that right – you can see right through it! This innovative design is a game changer for lifestyle TVs, offering an alternative to the traditional

big black screen that sits against the wall. Blending seamlessly into its surroundings, the almost invisible OLED T can be positioned anywhere, and works with the Zero Connect Box for standalone simplicity.

And when it’s time to enjoy a movie or show, a rollable contrast screen can be raised and lowered at the touch of a button. There’s no word yet on when the OLED T will be available, but we want one!

14 MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

LET THERE BE SURROUND LIGHTING You’ve got the big screenTV happening, so why not add some ambience to enhance your viewing or gaming. Look no further than Philips Hue Play smart lighting. Words Bec Summer There’s surround sound, but did you know that surround lighting is also a thing? Essentially a visual extension of your TV, this cool smart lighting setup sits behind the TV and detects the light emanating from the screen during a movie or game, and then bathes the walls around the TV with the corresponding colour. To add surround lighting to a home theatre setup you’ll need the Philips Hue Play Smart Light Bar, Philips Hue Play Gradient Lightstrip, Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box, and Philips Hue Bridge V2.0.

A smart TV is not just for entertainment, as connection to the internet opens up a world of functionality, from checking socials on a big screen to using theTV as a hub for viewing and controlling connected smart home devices. Words Scott Hocking S mart TVs have revolutionised our viewing habits, putting all the popular streaming apps and free-to-air TV channels into one user-friendly dashboard. And there’s no more doorbell and watch the pizza delivery arrive while you’re watching a movie, and view live video from security cameras in greater detail on a big, high-resolution screen. GET SMART WITH YOUR NEW TV

need to fiddle with settings to get a great picture – the TV does all of that for you. You can cast photos and videos from your smartphone onto the big screen, listen to a playlist or podcast on the TV’s soundbar, and browse the web or check socials using the remote (sometimes fiddly) or with a voice command. Most smart TVs have an inbuilt virtual assistant like Alexa or Google that will adjust or mute the volume, change channels, search for your movie of choice, and turn off the TV when it’s bedtime. When integrated into a compatible smart home ecosystem, your TV becomes a hub for directly controlling compatible smart devices like security cameras, locks, and smart lighting. You can access the live feed from a video

Samsung TV owners can use the SmartThings app to transform a compatible Samsung TV into a smart home hub for easy control of connected smart home devices, or turn a supported Galaxy smartphone into a TV remote. So, get smart and set a routine to fire up the coffee machine, get the robot vacuum moving, and start the dishwasher – all without moving from the couch!

The light bars can sit either side of the TV (like speakers) or be mounted on the rear along with the lightstrip. The sync box is the go-between, with four HDMI ports to connect external devices like a game console or 4K Blu-ray player, while the Bridge lets you control the speed and brightness of the lighting using a smartphone app. Surround lighting is beamed at a 45° angle onto the wall behind the TV, and the multiple light zones will accurately reflect the different colours of a movie scene or game, creating an even more immersive experience.

Teaching an old TV smart tricks You can easily smarten up an old TV provided it has an HDMI port. Simply plug in a media streaming device like Google Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV Stick, or Apple TV, and voila, all your favourite streaming apps are ready to go from one handy interface – with voice control to boot! All on a TV that predates the smart tech revolution.

16 MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au

Available at

SAMSUNG TVs

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

*Image simulated for illustrative purpose. Cable not shown.

This year, Samsung delivers a quantum leap in picture quality and AI upscaling with a flagship 8K Neo QLED TV, the world’s first glare-free certified OLED 4K, and a greater range of screen sizes for the Neo QLED 4K range. Words Scott Hocking 8K EXCELLENCE & AN ANTI-GLARE OLED FROM SAMSUNG

SAMSUNG Neo QLED 8K – QN900D Screen sizes: 65” | 75” | 85” Future proofed for 8K content and representing the pinnacle of picture quality for a Samsung TV,

(depending on the quality of the source content), adding greater detail and vivid colours to your favourite movies, shows, and sports on streaming or disc. Sports enthusiasts will also notice smoother motion during the game thanks to the TV’s AI Motion Enhancer Pro, which detects the kind of sport

as the picture it delivers, thanks to Samsung’s Infinity One slim design that significantly reduces screen bezel, and the Slim One connect box that uses a single cable to transmit both power and data. Who is it for? Anyone looking for a future-proofed TV that makes current content look the best it possibly can, as well as videographers shooting 8K content and movie buffs who want to boost the quality of their streaming, Blu-ray, and 4K UHD discs. Specs Backlighting: Mini LED Refresh rate: 100Hz Game Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium Pro HDR: Neo Quantum HDR 8K Pro, HDR10+ Smart connectivity: Alexa, Google, Samsung SmartThings

you’re watching and optimises the tracking of fast moving objects for maximum clarity. And gamers can take advantage of HDMI 2.1 connection and up to 240Hz VRR for fast and fluid play. The QN900D also elevates the audio experience using integrated up, down, and side firing speakers to deliver 90W 6.2.4 channel sound and Dolby Atmos for supported content. And Q Symphony connectivity will sync a compatible soundbar to the TV’s speakers for an even bigger and more immersive soundscape. Smart features include inbuilt Alexa for voice control and smart home integration via Samsung SmartThings, along with Google Home compatibility, and content mirroring from supported Android and iOS devices. Aesthetically, the QN900D 8K is as striking

the flagship QN900D Neo QLED 8K boasts a whopping 33 million pixels – that’s four times more than Neo QLED 4K TVs – and utilises proprietary Quantum Mini LEDs to reproduce inky blacks, accurate contrast, and greater detail in dark and bright scenes. This 8K beauty introduces Samsung’s most powerful AI processor to date, the NQ8 AI Gen 3, for optimising resolution when upscaling SD, HD, and 4K content to near 8K quality

Samsung QN800D • Quantum Mini LED • AI Gen 2 Upscaling Pro • Dolby Atmos 4.2.2 channel sound • 65” | 75” | 85” Also in the Neo QLED 8K family

18 MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au

continued SAMSUNG TVs

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

SAMSUNG OLED 4K – S95D Screen sizes: 55” | 65” | 77” Following their entry into the OLED market in 2022, Samsung has continued to refine this premium display tech, and their beautiful and

content to near 4K quality (depending on the source), while Motion Rate 200 reduces blur in fast

moving action scenes. And gamers can take advantage of the TV’s 144Hz VRR refresh rate for smoother play. On the audio front, the S95D has down and side-firing speakers for a multi directional soundscape via 4.2.2 channels, Dolby Atmos on compatible content, and Q Symphony support for soundbar If you’re looking for a premium OLED TV that will perform well in a brightly lit room without distracting reflections and glare, the S95D is your go-to model. *Only applicable on S95D. The S95D range has been independently verified as OLED Glare Free: Reflection Glare UGR <10, Discomfort Glare UGR <22, Disability Glare UGR <34 by UL LLC (UL Solutions), Certificate Number: V647799 – 01/03/2024. Specs Backlighting: OLED self-lit pixels Refresh rate: 100Hz Game Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium Pro HDR: OLED HDR Pro, HDR10+ Smart connectivity: Alexa, Google, Samsung SmartThings synchronisation. Who is it for?

bright new S95D OLED 4K range carries the world’s first OLED Glare Free certification.* OLED owners will already know that these TVs can be reflective when viewed in a very bright room, so this new tech was designed to reduce any distracting reflections from external light sources and maintain sharpness and colour accuracy during daylight viewing.

SAMSUNG The Frame QLED 4K TV – LS03D Screen sizes: 43” | 50” | 55” | 65” | 75” | 85” A popular staple of Samsung’s Lifestyle TV range, The Frame fuses design and technology into a literal work of art. This QLED 4K smart TV can quickly transform into an authentic looking piece of artwork that blends seamlessly into your décor. Watch your friends’ faces when that painting they’ve always admired on your wall suddenly starts playing Netfllix! The Frame sports an Anti Glare matte display to minimise reflection for an authentic finish to whichever artwork you choose to display from a gallery of thousands available from the subscription-based Art Store. And this year, Samsung has added a variable refresh rate for Art Mode – on screen sizes 55” and above – to reduce energy consumption. Who is it for? If you want a TV that doesn’t look like a TV when it’s turned off, The Frame will blend seamlessly into your décor by displaying your favourite artwork and photos. Specs Backlighting: Edge-lit Refresh rate: 100Hz Game Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium HDR: Quantum HDR, HDR10+ Audio: 4.2.2 channel Dolby Atmos, Q Symphony Smart connectivity: Alexa, Samsung SmartThings Complementing The Frame in 2024 is the all-new LS60D Music Frame – a stylish digital picture frame that’s also a wireless speaker compatible with Q Symphony TVs and streaming from mobile devices via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. (See page 36 for more.)

Screen image simulated for illustrative purpose. Cable not shown. Customisable Frames sold seperately.

Moreover, Adaptive Picture control automatically adjusts the image to best suit the brightness of the room, and the type of content you’re watching. Add to this an incredibly vibrant display boasting the perfect blacks OLED is renowned for, Pantone validated colour accuracy via AI enhancement, and Samsung OLED tech to optimise colour brightness, and you’ve got a luxury TV that looks great in any lighting conditions. 4K AI upscaling will boost SD and HD

Samsung S90D • 4K AI Upscaling • Adaptive Picture • Dolby Atmos 4.2.2 channel sound • 55” | 65” Also in the OLED 4K family

SAMSUNG Neo QLED 4K – QN90D Screen sizes: 43” | 50” | 55” | 65” | 75” | 85” | 98” Samsung’s new Neo QLED 4K range has a screen size to suit

your price range, the Neo QLED 4K series offers an affordable alternative in a variety of screen sizes that will fit rooms both big and small – and your budget. Specs Backlighting: Mini LED Refresh rate: 100Hz Game Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium Pro HDR: Neo Quantum HDR, HDR10+ Smart connectivity: Alexa, Google, Samsung SmartThings

resolution content up to near 4K quality (depending on the source, of course). The QN90D range also shares many of the intelligent picture adjustment functions and smart connectivity available on its OLED counterparts, such as Adaptive Picture Control and Motion Rate 200, as well as inbuilt up, down, and side-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos on supported content. Who is it for? If 8K and OLED are beyond

every room, including the massive 98” QN90D for a truly cinematic experience. This mega screen features an exclusive, AI-powered Supersize Picture enhancer that’s designed to preserve fine detail on a large display. Quantum Mini LEDs designed for precise light and picture enhancement give you a stunning and vivid 4K image with near OLED quality blacks and contrast levels, while 4K AI upscaling bumps lower

Also in the Neo QLED 4K family

Samsung QN85D • 4K AI Upscaling • Adaptive Picture

• 2.2 channel sound + Dolby Atmos • 55” | 65” | 75” | 85”

20 MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au

LG TVs

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

LG are upsizing this year with massive screen sizes on their flagship OLED evo and QNED 4KTVs, and introducing the world-first OLED evo with 4K wireless transmission from a separate connect box. Words Scott Hocking AND MEGA-SIZED SCREENS FROM LG A WORLD-FIRST FOR OLED EVO

LG OLED evo 4K – M4 and G4 Screen sizes: M4 – 77”| 83”| 97” G4 – 55”| 65”| 77”| 83”| 97” LG have been market leaders in premium OLED 4K TVs for 11 years now, and their 2024 range is spearheaded by the big OLED evo M4 and G4. The M4 is the world’s first OLED evo TV to feature wireless 4K picture and audio transmission via the Zero Connect box. The M4 is designed for flush wall mounting using the included bracket, so picture and audio is sent wirelessly from the separate box, allowing the panel to stand alone, gallery style. The brain of these flagship

AI Brightness Control and Brightness Booster Max work together to ensure you don’t miss the fine details when viewing in a well-lit room, with up to 150% higher peak brightness than non-OLED evo models. AI processing also enhances and fine tunes the 11.1.2 channel virtual surround sound output from the TVs’ inbuilt speakers for a more balanced soundscape, with WOW Orchestra support to combine audio from the TV speakers with a compatible LG soundbar (see page 34 for more). And the Multi-View function has been updated for the M4 and G4 models; users are now able to view content onscreen from four different sources at once. Complementing Filmmaker Mode, which presents the picture exactly as the director intended, is the new AI Director processing feature that analyses a scene to preserve its

original colour tone, as well as enhancing subtle highlights. The M4 and G4 series OLED evos are also geared towards gamers, with up to 144Hz refresh rate (increased from 120Hz) and AMD Freesync Premium and VRR support (see page 42 for more). Who is it for? LG has over a decade’s experience perfecting OLED tech, so if you’re looking for one of the best TVs that money can buy, you’ll find it in the OLED evo M4 and G4. Specs (G4 OLED evo) Backlighting: OLED self-lit Refresh rate: 120Hz Game Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision Smart connectivity: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple Homekit

OLED evo TVs is the latest Alpha 11 AI processor, which powers a suite of AI picture functions including improved upscaling for better clarity on SD and HD content

Also in the Neo OLED evo 4K family

LG OLED evo C4 series • Alpha 9 AI Processor Gen 7 • Brightness Booster • 144Hz Game Mode • 42” | 48” | 55” | 65” | 77” | 83”

(depending on source quality), and enhancing objects and faces for a more multi-dimensional appearance.

22 MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au

continued LG TVs

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

LG QNED 4K – QNED91 Screen sizes: 75” | 86” LG’s QNED range of TVs expands in 2024 with four new models led by the QNED91 Mini LED and the QNED89 (available in June) – the latter a 98” beast certain to satisfy Aussies’ hunger for mega-size screens. LG’s Nanocell technology boosts colour vibrancy and affords a wide viewing angle, and when combined with quantum dot tech for greater brightness and a wider colour gamut, the result is a QNED TV. QNED displays deliver superb picture quality approaching OLED excellence, with the QNED91’s mini LED precision dimming deepening blacks and reducing any blooming or halo effects in brighter areas. Moreover, the QNED91 can differentiate between shades of grey for more accurate contrast. Powered by the Alpha 8 AI Processor, the QNED 91 shares many of the AI-based functions of its OLED evo cousins, such as Picture Pro to enrich texture and fine details in objects and facial features, and super upscaling to near 4K resolution (depending on the content source quality). All the popular streaming apps can be accessed with a click from the webOS user interface, and Filmmaker Mode is also available in conjunction with Dolby Vision HDR – both are must-have features for movie buffs. Gamers, meanwhile, can enjoy enhanced high-speed play with FreeSync and VRR support. The QNED91 also has a suite of smart

What’s new in webOS 24? Marking a decade of LG’s webOS operating system, 2024 introduces the updated webOS 24, offering greater personalisation with ten individual profiles able to be created, along with the return of Dynamic Quick Cards for categorising frequently used content. This year also sees the introduction of the WebOS Re:New program, which effectively future proofs new LG TVs and enables those with a 2022 model and above to access four WebOS upgrades.* *The webOS Re:New Program supports upgrades over five years. Features are subject to change and some features, application and service updates may vary by model.

features for cross-device connectivity including inbuilt Chromecast, Apple AirPlay, and AI Picture Wizard. Who is it for? With their high brightness and vivid colours, QNED TVs are a perfect fit for those looking for premium picture quality and an affordable alternative to OLED. Specs Backlighting: Mini LED HDR: HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision Audio: Dolby Atmos Game Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium Smart connectivity: Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple Homekit

LG QNED86 series • Alpha 8 AI Processor • Multi View (2x screens) • VRR, AMD FreeSync Premium • 55” | 65” | 75” | 86” Also in the QNED 4K family

Get ready to GO

Off to see the Wizard Available on the OLED evo, QNED91 and QNED86 models,

Flex up your game

Designed for a gaming lifestyle, the LG OLED Flex is a gaming TV with a bendable 42” anti-reflective screen that can curve up to 900R for greater immersion. See page 44 for an in-depth look at this innovative screen tech.

LG’s personalised Picture Wizard is an AI-powered smart function that uses deep

learning algorithms to customise your preferred image quality. You simply choose the resolution that looks best to your eyes from a selection of images to create a preset that will optimise the picture quality going forward.

Lifestyle TVs are also a focus for LG this year, with the new StanbyME GO representing the next generation in portable screens. Essentially a TV in a briefcase, the StanbyME GO comes in a sturdy carry case and has an inbuilt battery and speakers, so it can be taken and set up

wherever you want to watch or game – indoors, in a caravan, on the deck, or by the beach. The StanbyME GO has a bright screen for outdoor use and is fully adjustable for height, orientation, and viewing angle. You can also easily personalise content using the onboard webOS platform.

24 MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au

HISENSE TVs

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

HISENSE U6NAU series • Mini LED • Quantum Dot • Ideal entry level TVs • 55”| 65”| 75”| 85” HISENSE Q6NAU • QLED • Super Contrast (Direct Lit) • Game Mode Plus (VRR, ALLM) • 43”| 50”| 55”| 65”| 75”| 85” Also in the Hisense 2024 family

Hisense knows Aussies want supersize entertainment and have come to the party in 2024 with large screen sizes across their ULED ranges, as well as more mini LED options for bright and vivid viewing. Words Scott Hocking HISENSE BRINGS MEGA SCREEN SIZES AND MORE MINI LED

during fast moving scenes, and there's also a dedicated AI Sports Mode that reduces noise and boosts clarity for more fluid movement when the action fires up. Big screens demand big sound, and the U8NAU is equipped with up-firing speakers and a built-in subwoofer to deliver a punchy soundstage with Dolby Atmos support for compatible content. Moreover, the U8NAU series’ new streamlined look sees the speakers now located at the rear of the TV. The U8NAU series is available in three big screen sizes, while the U7NAU offers a 55” and massive 100” for mid-size and large rooms, respectively. Who is it for? Size does matter when it comes to TVs, and Hisense’s premium U8NAU and U7NAU ULED series are the go-to if you’re looking to upsize your entertainment without breaking the bank. Specs Backlighting: Mini LED Refresh rate: 144Hz Game Sync: AMD FreeSync Premium HDR: HDR10, HDR10+ Adaptive, Dolby Vision Smart connectivity: Alexa, Google, Apple AirPlay, Apple Homekit

HISENSE ULED 4K MINI LED – U8NAU & U7NAU series Screen sizes: U8NAU: 65”| 75”| 85” U7NAU: 55”| 65”| 75”| 85”| 100”

This year, Hisense brings advanced mini LED tech to their premium ULED range, including higher peak brightness and more dimming zones than previous models. Hisense’s ULED (Ultra LED) technology ups the ante for

dimming zones, and up to 1600 nits of brightness, compared with 500-plus and 1300, respectively, on the 2023 U8 models, while the UN7NAU range triples the number of dimming zones from the previous iteration, with 300-plus

colour gamut, local dimming, 4K resolution and motion rate, and with those four boxes ticked you can expect outstanding picture quality from these supersize screens. Quantum dot colour and greater brightness makes Hisense’s ULED TVs a great fit for rooms with a lot of natural or ambient light. Local dimming provides greater control over the panel’s Mini LED backlighting to increase contrast and clarity, especially when viewing HDR content. The U8NAU series now features 1000-plus

for greater overall contrast. Both the U8NAU and U7NAU series support the premium HDR formats – Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ Adaptive – for scene-by-scene analysis and precise picture adjustment to suit a room’s lighting conditions, resulting in more accurate HDR and greater detail during dark scenes. Add Filmmaker Mode, and you’ve got a TV that movie buffs will love. 200 Smooth Motion and a Game Mode Pro refresh rate of 144Hz means silky smooth performance with no noisy or blurred motion

Solar saving

Hisense’s brand spanking new solar-powered remote is compatible with both the ULED TV and soundbar range. The eco-friendly solar panel uses ambient light to keep the remote continuously charged, and the alternative USB-C charging option means no more buying fresh batteries.

What’s new in VIDAA U7 This year, Hisense has implemented a more streamlined version of their VIDAA U7 operating system across the entire 2024 range for easy and customised access to all your favourite streaming apps, along with VIDAA TV for a plethora of local and international content at no cost.

26 MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au

SONY TVs

TECH FEATURE

visit jbhifi.com.au/stack

BRAVIA CORE FOR MORE

This year’s BRAVIA models feature the BRAVIA Core app, giving you access to the latest hit movies and classics from the Sony catalogue in up to 4K Ultra HD resolution and IMAX Enhanced where supported. Simply register to redeem up to ten complimentary movies, and enjoy 24 months of unlimited streaming (T&Cs apply).

Mini LEDTVs are becoming a popular addition to Aussie homes, and Sony steps up the plate with big brand new BRAVIAs that bring out the very best in this backlighting tech. Words Scott Hocking BRIGHT NEW MINI LED BRAVIA TVs FROM SONY

contrast, and clarity from any viewing angle – perfect for when you’ve got a group over for a movie night or to watch the big game. And when sports or action movies fire up, XR Motion Clarity (available on both models) analyses motion across a selection of frames to keep the visuals buttery smooth. There’s plenty of smart tech working behind the display to optimise sound, too. Both models feature Acoustic Multi-Audio to ensure that the sound precisely matches the visuals, along with Acoustic Centre Sync that uses the TV’s audio as a centre speaker when connected to a compatible multi-channel Sony soundbar. And the Voice Zoom function lets you tweak the volume for dialogue and sports commentaries so the rest of the sound mix doesn’t overwhelm them. Gamers will benefit from Dolby Vision gaming and PS Remote Play support, plus Multi-View for split screen video, and Game Menu 2.0 for quick access to settings and all things gaming from the main UI. Both models run Android 12 OS, with built-in Chromecast for smartphone connectivity, and are Wi-Fi 6E certified. Who are they for? Sony’s BRAVIA line is synonymous with premium picture quality and intelligent features, and the new BRAVIA 9 and 7 showcase the brightness and adaptability of mini LED backlighting for those considering this top TV tech. Specs Backlighting: Full Array Mini LED Refresh rate: 100Hz Game Sync: PS Remote Play HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision Smart connectivity: Google Home

SONY BRAVIA MINI LED 4K – BRAVIA 9 & BRAVIA 7 Screen sizes: BRAVIA 9 – 75”| 85” BRAVIA 7 – 55”| 65”| 75”| 85”

LED and then adjusts the backlighting to suit. It also intelligently reduces any light blooming or halos around objects and subjects to deliver near OLED quality blacks and contrast. Plus, with intelligent features like XR Triluminos Pro reproducing colours in vivid natural shades, and XR Contrast Booster Pro adjusting brightness and balancing light output across the screen, you’re looking at a TV that delivers premium picture quality across the board. The BRAVIA 9’s display is also equipped with X-Anti Reflection coating to reduce any distracting glare from lamps or daylight, along with X-Wide Angle for consistent colour,

Mini LED tech drives two of the big new BRAVIA models from Sony this year, with the brand’s Cognitive Processor XR onboard for precise control of the backlighting dimming zones. The XR processor powers the XR Backlight Master Drive, which analyses each frame to determine the brightness required for each mini

Also in the BRAVIA 2024 family

Sony BRAVIA 3 DIRECT LED 4K • Triluminos Pro

Sony BRAVIA 8 OLED 4K • XR OLED Contrast • XR OLED Motion • Acoustic Surface Audio+ • 55” | 65” | 77”

• MotionFlow XR 200Hz • Dolby Vision & Atmos • 43” | 50” | 55”| 65”| 75”| 85”

28 MAY 2024

jbhifi.com.au