With strong performance and a host of usable features, Sony's KDL-40S2000 BRAVIA is well equipped to serve as the centerpiece of a high-end home theater system. This 40-inch widescreen LCD TV has both an integrated HD tuner and PC compatibility, so you will never lack for entertainment.

The conservative silver cabinet has speakers tucked below the screen and control buttons lined out of sight along the top edge. A combination component video/S-video input is conveniently located along the left edge for the connection of a camcorder or video game console. The KDL-40S2000 comes with a tilt/swivel stand that can be removed for mounting the monitor on the wall with separately available hardware.

Images appear detailed and crisp on the 1,366X768-resolution screen, and the KDL-40S2000 delivers excellent black levels. Digital video processing cleans up any picture artifacts missed by the 3-D digital comb filter, and standard-definition content is up-converted to progressive scan display. The brightness of the screen automatically adjusts itself to compensate for the ambient light in the room. Movies are presented with the help of Sony's effective CineMotion reverse 3:2 pulldown conversion, which ensures smooth motion even in action scenes.

The KDL-40S2000's audio system keeps pace with the video presentation, as it delivers 20 total watts of output and offers simulated surround sound. Convenience features include a full-screen picture freeze with live inset window, favorite channel memory for 16 stations, channel labeling, parental V-chip controls and a clock. Unfortunately, Sony does not include PIP functions with the KDL-40S2000, which some shoppers may consider a glaring omission.

The KDL-40S2000 will no doubt be connected to a variety of external components, and the connection selection is generally adequate for the task. In addition to the side inputs, the rear panel offers two composite video inputs, an S-video input, two component video inputs, a single HDMI input, a PC input with audio, a fixed/variable audio output and an optical digital audio output. Surprisingly, the remote control is not a universal model, but the simplicity of the remote makes it very intuitive to use.

Warranty
1 year parts and labor