Sony A90K Series 48 Inch OLED TV Review with PlayStation 5 Features

Description

Compact Yet Powerful Design

The Sony 48 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV A90K Series: BRAVIA XR OLED Smart Google TV (Model XR48A90K) immediately caught my attention with its sleek, compact design. Measuring just 42.13 x 8.88 x 24.88 inches, it’s the perfect size for smaller spaces like bedrooms or cozy living rooms without sacrificing visual impact. The multi-position stand is a thoughtful touch, offering flexibility whether you’re placing it on a console or mounting it on the wall. The minimalist black finish complements virtually any decor, while the compact size doesn’t compromise on screen real estate or quality.

I also appreciated the Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, which cleverly integrates sound production directly from the screen. It adds a layer of elegance, as there’s no need for visible speakers cluttering the look. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic but also contributes to a more immersive viewing experience.

Stunning Picture Quality

One of the standout features for me is the XR OLED Contrast Pro technology, which delivers true-to-life contrast with deep blacks and stunning brightness levels. Watching movies on this TV feels like being transported directly into the scene. The XR Triluminos Pro adds billions of colors to the mix, making visuals vibrant and incredibly detailed. Even nature documentaries, with all their subtle shades and textures, feel more vivid and lifelike.

Gaming was another area where this TV excelled. As someone who spends hours on high-performance games, I can confidently say the input lag as low as 8.5ms and support for 4K/120Hz with HDMI 2.1 made a noticeable difference. The Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Switch, specifically optimized for PlayStation 5, brought out details that I hadn’t noticed on my previous TV.

Enhanced Audio Immersion

The Acoustic Surface Audio+ is more than just a gimmick—it completely changes how you experience sound. Instead of traditional speakers, the TV uses dual actuators that vibrate the screen to produce sound, paired with a built-in subwoofer for deeper bass. It’s an odd concept until you experience it. Whether it’s the subtle rustling of leaves or the booming explosions in an action movie, the sound feels like it’s coming from the scene itself rather than the corners of the room.

Additionally, the TV supports Dolby Atmos, creating a surround sound effect that you’d typically expect from a more elaborate setup. While testing it with a Dolby Atmos-supported movie, I found the audio incredibly immersive.

Key Benefits

• Compact size without compromising on picture or sound quality.
• Exceptional contrast and color reproduction thanks to XR OLED Contrast Pro and XR Triluminos Pro.
• Optimized for gaming, especially for PlayStation 5 users, with features like Auto HDR Tone Mapping.
• Immersive sound experience with Acoustic Surface Audio+ and Dolby Atmos integration.

Areas of Concern

Although this TV is packed with features, there are a few pitfalls worth considering:

• Price point may be a bit steep for the size, even though the features justify the expense to some extent.
• The screen size of 48 inches might not satisfy those looking for a more cinematic experience in larger rooms.
• Limited HDMI ports could be a concern if you have multiple devices to connect.

Product Rivals

Comparing this TV to others in the same category, such as the LG C2 OLED or the Samsung QN90B, reveals both its strengths and weaknesses. The LG C2 OLED offers similar OLED technology and excellent gaming features but lacks the Acoustic Surface Audio+ system, making Sony’s approach to sound stand out. On the other hand, Samsung’s QN90B boasts Quantum Dot Technology, which provides brighter visuals but doesn’t quite achieve the same depth of black levels as Sony’s OLED panel.

For PlayStation 5 users, the exclusive gaming features on this Sony TV give it an edge over its rivals, ensuring seamless integration and optimization. However, those who prioritize overall value might find the LG model more appealing due to its slightly lower price range and similar performance.

Price Performance

I have to admit, this TV isn’t exactly budget-friendly, but it’s hard to argue with what you’re getting. The features packed into this compact model—from the Cognitive Processor XR to the Acoustic Surface Audio+—make it feel like a premium investment. While other brands might offer lower prices, they often lack the same level of image accuracy and innovative sound technology.

For anyone who prioritizes high-quality visuals and immersive audio, this TV feels like a smart spending choice. However, if you’re someone who doesn’t game or stream a lot of high-definition content, you might find the features a bit overkill for your needs.

Additional information