Product Description

Sony’s S-series TVs put amazing picture quality and stunning dynamic contrast in reach for value-oriented consumers who want to step up into the Sony Full HD 1080p experience. These TVs represent the entry-level models in Sony’s large screen offerings in 2009 and offer the superior resolution and contrast, advanced image processing features, and variety of HD input options available on high-end BRAVIA HDTVs -- all in an affordable package. With three HDMI connections, you can hook up a Sony PlayStation3 entertainment system, Blu-ray Disc player, or any other HDMI-capable equipment and get uncompressed digital video and multi-channel digital audio on a single cable. You also have numerous other HD connection options, including YPbPr Component inputs as well as a PC input for using your laptop or desktop PC with your big-screen HDTV. No matter which HD source you use, the exclusive Sony BRAVIA Engine 2 fully digital video processor ensures that images look sharp and brilliant. With BRAVIA Link compatibility, you can easily expand your high-resolution home theatre set-up with optional BRAVIA Wireless Link, BRAVIA DVD Link, or BRAVIA Input Link Modules. And BRAVIA Sync makes controlling everything a snap. Additionally, BRAVIA S-Series HDTVs exceed Energy Star 3.0 requirements by incorporating advanced power saving features such as Light Sensor technology that adjusts backlight intensity based on ambient room lighting conditions and Dynamic Backlight Control that adjusts backlight intensity based on the brightness of the image on the screen. Utilizing these features can reduce power consumption by up to 60% in a typical home theater environment.

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #2432 in Consumer Electronics
• Size: 46 Inch
• Color: Black
• Brand: Sony
• Model: KDL-46S5100
• Dimensions: 28.50" h x 3.87" w x 44.25" l, 49.80 pounds
• Display size: 46

Features

• A 46-inch 16:9 Full HD 1080p Resolution Panel provides optimum resolution from any HDTV source that delivers 1080p content
• Advanced Contrast Enhancer with Dynamic Backlight Control Dynamic Backlight Control creates a dynamic contrast ratio of 30,000:1
• Unique Sony technologies to reduce visual noise, improve color, and sharpen overall image detail
• Three HDMI inputs (up to 1080/60p input capable) , two Component YPbPr (1080/60i capable), and one PC input (HD-15 pin)
• BRAVIA Link compatibility lets you expand your HDTV's capabilities with BRAVIA Link modules, such as BRAVIA DVD Link, BRAVIA Wireless Link

From the Manufacturer
From the Manufacturer Manufacturer's Review (March 3, 2009)
Full HD 1080p resolution and stunning contrast are now in reach with Sony BRAVIA S-Series Flat Panel HDTVs. Like the rest of the BRAVIA S-Series HDTVs, the 46-inch KDL-46S5100 offers the superior resolution and dynamic contrast, advanced image processing features, and variety of HD input options available on high-end BRAVIA HDTVs--at a great value.

Enjoy the superior resolution and dynamic contrast, advanced image processing features, and variety of HD input options available on high-end BRAVIA HDTVs--at a great value. Click to enlarge.

Includes RM-YD028 remote.

16:9 Full HD 1080p Resolution Panel (1920x1080)
16:9 Full HD 1080p resolution panel (1920x1080) accepts any HDTV signal and renders it with optimum resolution, so you can take full advantage of Blu-ray Disc players and Sony PLAYSTATION 3 entertainment systems that can deliver 1080p content.

Dynamic contrast (30,000:1)
Advanced Contrast Enhancer (ACE) creates a dynamic contrast level by working in real time to produce deep blacks in darker scenes, as well as fine details in shadows and other dark areas of the picture for a difference you can truly see.

BRAVIA Engine 2 fully digital video processor
The BRAVIA Engine 2 fully digital video processor uses a collection of unique Sony technologies to significantly reduce noise, enhance overall image detail, and optimize contrast so every scene produces sharp, vibrant, life-like images and color.

HDMI connection x 3 (1080/60p capable)
Get versatile HDMI connection options with three HDMI inputs (up to 1080/60p input capable). Connect a Sony PLAYSTATION 3 entertainment system, Blu-ray Disc player, or any other HDMI-capable equipment and get uncompressed digital video and multi-channel digital audio on a single cable.

HD Component x 2 (1080/60i capable)
Two YPbPr Component inputs (1080/60i capable) provide added HD-capable connectivity, and a PC input (HD-15 pin) offers the added versatility to use your HDTV as a computer monitor.

BRAVIA Link compatibility
BRAVIA Link compatibility expands your HDTV's capabilities by letting you connect optional BRAVIA Link modules, including the BRAVIA DVD Link, BRAVIA Wireless Link, and BRAVIA Input Link (all sold separately).

BRAVIA Sync capable
BRAVIA Sync capability combines the one-touch access and control functionality of BRAVIA Theatre Sync with the ability to control CEC-enabled Sony Handycam camcorders and Cyber-shot digital still cameras using the TV's remote and an on-screen display via HDMI connector.

24p True Cinema
24p True Cinema support provides a direct connection to 24p video sources, avoiding conversions and allowing users to enjoy films at their intended 24 fps (frames per second) cinematic picture quality when using a 24p-capable output device, such as a Blu-ray Disc player or Sony PLAYSTATION 3 entertainment system.

Favorites Menu
The Favorites Menu function makes it easy to quickly access your favorite channels and video inputs.

Energy Star 3.0 Certified
Sony BRAVIA S-Series HDTVs exceed Energy Star 3.0 requirements by incorporating advanced power saving features such as Light Sensor technology that adjusts backlight intensity based on ambient room lighting conditions and Dynamic Backlight Control that adjusts backlight intensity based on the brightness of the image on the screen.

VESA compatible hole spacing
VESA compatible hole spacing uses an industry-standard mounting hole pattern that can be used with VESA-compliant mounting brackets, taking the guesswork out of selecting the proper hardware for hanging your TV on the wall.

What's in the Box
Sony BRAVIA S-Series KDL-46S5100 46-inch 1080p LCD HDTV, Remote Control RM-YD028, Batteries (Type AA x2), AC Power Cord (attached), Operating Instructions, Quick Setup Guide, Table Top Stand (separate, pre-assembled), Screws (4) for Pedestal, Warranty Card

BRAVIA Link Compatibility for 2009 LCD HDTVs

	L5000 Series	S5100 Series	V5100 Series	VES Series	W5100 Series	Z5100 Series
Internet Video Link (BIVL)	no	no	no	no	built-in	built-in
Wireless Link	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
DVD Link	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
Input Link	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes

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Customer Reviews

Great Value
Typically when there is a fanboy war over LCDs, the fight comes down between Samsung and Sony. Sonys are usually hailed as having better blacks while Samsungs [aka Sammys] are cited as having more accurate color.

I had a 46V4100 [last year's V-Series a step higher than this S-series] and found it was a solid performer that was plagued by uneven backlight issues.

After researching several sets, I decided to give Sony another chance. At some point when buying an HDTV you have to accept that there will be compromises.

For a "entry level" set, the S5100 does not disappoint. Yes, SD content looks sketchy because of the huge amounts of upscaling that take place. That's true on any 1080p set. And the compression that the cable and satellite companies use mean you will see blocky compression artifacts around the edges of some HD content.

But from a picture standpoint, the colors are accurate, the shadow detail is good and the viewing angle for an LCD is outstanding.

Physically, the set is handsome in a functional way but doesn't have any design pizzazz. Also, the bezel is reflective. I know manufacturers do this so their products look "nice and shiny" but the position of the set in my room causes a noticeable glare on the left bezel- I thought it was severe backlight bleed until I looked more closely.

The screen itself is glossier than most LCD screens- not as reflective as a plasma but it will still throw a reflection at you. Probably not the best choice for a room with lots of direct sunlight. I have the TV in a room under a ceiling fan and the reflection is noticeable but not distracting. However, the reflection is nowhere near as diffuse as you'd expect from an LCD.

I think this reflective screen helps with the viewing angle, though. I'm sitting 6 feet to the left and 2 feet in front of the TV and the colors are almost as vivid as if I were sitting directly in front. This is a rare LCD that can challenge a plasma on viewing angle. Usually you get 50 degrees off center from an LCD and your picture is washed out.

Sony's xcross [pronounced "cross"] menu system [used on the PS3 AND PSP] is not on the S5100. I don't consider that a big loss and you do get a remote button called "tools" that lets you get to commonly used functions without using the menu. The interface is attractive and easy to use.

The TV has plenty of connectivity. 3 HDMI, PC input [9 pin, not DVI], 2 component in, digital audio digital audio out... you get the idea. 2 of the HDMI ports and the PC input are on the left side of the panel, recessed far enough to protect the plugs. Seems like a strange design choice.

Finally, I will admit that there are some minor backlight issues [2 "flashlight" areas] but unlike the V4100, I have to look at them to notice them.

If you want a big set and you're on a budget, this is definitely a set worth looking at. I will warn you that it is very basic- there are NO extras on the TV. So SD slot, no internet connectivity, no picture in picture, no Motionflow 120/240

Those aren't issues for me. In my opinion, most of those "features" exist to allow TV manufacturers to roll new TVs out each year and build in profit margin at then expense of people who want toys. I'm willing to bet that as a pure picture and sound experience [ie no MotionFlow] this set is the equal of the V5100 series for $200-$500 less.

PS- I apologize for not being able to review the sound but I have the set connected to a receiver.

KDL-46S5100
Got the TV about two weeks ago, and have been somewhat satisfied. It took a while to get the SD channels look "OK" (sharpness down, etc), but I have concerns over the HD quality. HD channels are pretty good except when we have dark scenes. I get a lot of ghosting which I really hate seeing on a brand new TV. We have Comcast HD in Chicago, and we have really good HDMI cables. I applied the patch the day the TV came, and turned down the auto dim, and played around with all the picture settings including brightness, picture, sharpness... Anyone experiencing the same issues? I have yet to try a DVD - I only have a standard DVD player, maybe I should get a Blu-Ray player too...

I had a Sony 42" Plasma (bought in 2004) before this and the dark scenes look much more grainy compared to my old TV on HD channels.

I do not think I will return it but any comments to correct this issue during the return period are welcome.

Amazing.
I purchased this tv online, got a good price for it. Once I got it home it was a cinch to install. The picture and sound is amazing even without the HDMI cable. I would give more than five stars if I could. AMAZING.