Sony SDM-X73 review

While the Sony seems well designed, setting it up is tricky, as the cables are awkward to attach. On the positive side, each video connector has a complementary audio input that's activated whenever the video source changes. The speakers can cope with basic Windows audio, but music proved too much.

The OSD is easy to navigate, although it does have a couple of settings that aren't immediately obvious. While stylish, the black buttons with labels engraved in black on a black background take a bit of getting used to as well. An Eco mode dims the backlight and saves power, or backlight intensity can be altered manually along with gamma level and colour temperature.

Our tests showed the Sony to be a decent performer in most areas. Sharpness and resolution were slightly marred by interference in the pixel-tracking test, while in the real-world tests DVD playback showed some harsh colour transitions. Serious Sam was playable, though, and viewing angles were acceptable.

It was in the colour and greyscale tests that the biggest problems lay. The Sony performed well in the colour-combinations test, with everything easily readable. However, in both colour and greyscale ramps it showed significant banding, which caused the harsh transitions in the DVD test.

Although three screens cost around £400, the Sony loses out to the LG. The LG's 1.1in larger panel and pivot support mean the only ace Sony is left holding is its audio capabilities.