Despite the popularity and sales numbers of LCD televisions, they have, for the most part, always failed to match the picture quality of plasmas. The main reason being that due to their backlights, they are unable to produce the high contrast and deep black levels that plasmas are known for. Over the past few years, LED lighting has replaced florescent backlighting in high end LCD sets. However, most of these models feature only edge-lit configurations. While these sets are extremely thin, picture quality isn’t actually improved. LED backlighting really shines when full-array, local dimming technology is used. This is when the LED lights are place behind the screen and are able to be dimmed in small clusters. These kinds of sets are very rare and quite a bit more expensive than edge-lit models.

Sony, Samsung, Vizio and LG have all released local dimming sets in the last few years. Sony has implemented the technology in their top of the line models over the last couple of years and while they come at a high price, they do provide some of the best picture quality of any LCD TVs. Their 2011 follow up to last year’s HX909 series is the Sony Bravia XBR-HX929 series. It is available in 46-inch, 55-inch and 65-inch sizes as follows:
Sony XBR-46HX929 – 46 inches model
Sony XBR-55HX929 – 55 inches model
Sony XBR-65HX929 – 65 inches model (currently available at Amazon with an introductory price of $5,999.99)

The Sony XBR-HX929 has been found to be one of the best-performing LED-based LCDs up to date, as it contends satisfactorily against the leading plasmas in the market. It symbolizes the zenith of LCD picture quality.