Sony A80L OLED TV Review
Exceptional Picture Quality and Sound in Perfect Harmony
- Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Verdict
- Sizes
- Comparisons
- Design
- Picture
- Sound
- Smart Features
- Gaming
- Conclusion
The Sony BRAVIA XR A80L Series represents the latest evolution in OLED TV technology, offering a blend of stunning picture quality and immersive sound. At the heart of this 65-inch 4K Ultra HD Smart TV is Sony's intelligent Cognitive Processor XR, which delivers an OLED picture with wide dynamic contrast, detailed blacks, and natural colors that closely replicate how we see the real world. Building on the success of its predecessors, the A80L introduces several enhancements. The Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology transforms the entire screen into a multi-channel speaker, providing sound that follows the action on screen. For gamers, the TV boasts exclusive features for the PlayStation 5, including Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode, optimizing the OLED picture quality for both gaming and streaming. While it may not be the brightest OLED on the market, the A80L's combination of deep blacks, accurate colors, and advanced processing make it a formidable contender in the premium TV space.
Sony A80L OLED TV Review: Verdict
Pros
- Exceptional picture quality with deep blacks
- Impressive sound from Acoustic Surface Audio+
- Excellent for gaming with PS5-specific features
- User-friendly Google TV smart platform
- Accurate color reproduction and processing
Cons
- Peak brightness lower than some competitors
- Limited HDMI 2.1 ports
- Occasional software glitches reported
The Sony A80L OLED TV stands out as a top-tier choice in the mid-range OLED market, offering an impressive blend of picture quality, sound performance, and smart features. Its OLED panel, powered by the Cognitive Processor XR, delivers stunning visuals with deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast. The A80L excels in upscaling content and handling motion, making it a versatile option for various viewing scenarios.
One of the A80L’s standout features is its Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology, which turns the entire screen into a speaker. This innovative approach results in clear dialogue and immersive sound that matches the action on screen, often outperforming built-in speakers of competing models. For gamers, especially those with a PlayStation 5, the A80L offers a suite of gaming-specific features, including 4K/120Hz support, VRR, and Auto HDR Tone Mapping, ensuring a responsive and visually stunning gaming experience.
While the A80L shines in many areas, it’s not without its limitations. The peak brightness, while sufficient for most viewing environments, falls short of some higher-end OLED and QLED models. This may be a consideration for those with very bright rooms or who prioritize HDR performance. Additionally, with only two full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports, connectivity options for multiple high-end gaming consoles or devices may be limited for some users.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sony A80L OLED TV offers exceptional value. Its combination of superior picture processing, innovative audio technology, and a user-friendly Google TV interface makes it a compelling option for movie enthusiasts, gamers, and general viewers alike. The A80L successfully balances high-end features with a more accessible price point, making it a strong contender in the competitive OLED TV market.
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| Size | Model Number | |
| 65" | XR65A80L | |
| 55" | XR55A80L | |
| 77" | XR77A80L | |
| 83" | XR83A80L |
Sony A80L OLED TV Review: Differences Between Sizes
Pros
- Multiple size options for various room sizes
- Consistent picture quality across all sizes
- Larger sizes offer more immersive viewing experience
- Smaller sizes ideal for bedrooms or smaller spaces
Cons
- Limited availability of certain sizes
- Price increases significantly with larger sizes
The Sony BRAVIA XR A80L Series offers a range of size options to cater to different room sizes and viewing preferences. Available in 55-inch, 65-inch, 77-inch, and 83-inch models, this OLED TV series ensures that consumers can find the perfect fit for their space. Each size variant maintains the exceptional picture quality and features that the A80L series is known for, including the Cognitive Processor XR and OLED panel technology.
While the core technology remains consistent across all sizes, there are some notable differences to consider. The larger 77-inch and 83-inch models provide a more immersive viewing experience, making them ideal for spacious living rooms or home theater setups. These larger screens can truly showcase the OLED’s deep blacks and vibrant colors, especially when viewing 4K content or playing games on the latest consoles.
On the other hand, the 55-inch and 65-inch models are more versatile, fitting comfortably in medium-sized rooms or bedrooms. These smaller sizes still deliver the same impressive picture quality and smart features, but with a more manageable footprint and potentially lower power consumption. It’s worth noting that while all sizes support the same gaming features, including 4K/120Hz and VRR, the impact of these features may be more noticeable on larger screens.
Sony A80L OLED TV Review: Compared To Other TVs
Pros
- Superior picture processing and motion handling
- Exceptional sound quality with Acoustic Surface Audio+
- Exclusive gaming features for PlayStation 5
- Accurate color reproduction and deep blacks
Cons
- Lower peak brightness compared to some competitors
- Limited HDMI 2.1 ports
The Sony A80L OLED TV stands out in the competitive mid-range OLED market with its exceptional picture processing capabilities. Compared to rivals like the LG C3 and Samsung S95C, the A80L excels in motion handling and color accuracy, delivering a more refined and natural image. This is particularly noticeable in fast-moving scenes and sports content, where the A80L’s Cognitive Processor XR shines.
In terms of audio performance, the A80L takes the lead with its innovative Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology. This feature transforms the entire screen into a speaker, providing a more immersive sound experience than many competitors. While some high-end models from brands like Panasonic offer comparable sound quality, the A80L’s audio prowess is a standout feature in its price range.
Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate the A80L’s exclusive features for PlayStation 5, such as Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode. These give it an edge over many competitors for console gaming. However, it’s worth noting that the A80L offers fewer HDMI 2.1 ports than some rivals, which may be a consideration for users with multiple high-end gaming devices.
One area where the A80L falls slightly behind is peak brightness. While it delivers excellent contrast and deep blacks typical of OLED technology, some competitors like the Samsung S95C and LG G3 can achieve higher brightness levels, which may be noticeable in very bright viewing environments. Despite this, the A80L’s overall picture quality, combined with its superior processing and sound, makes it a compelling choice in the mid-range OLED TV market.
Sony A80L OLED TV Review: Design
Pros
- Sleek minimalist aesthetic
- Premium metal construction
- Versatile stand positions
- Thin profile for wall mounting
- Cable management system
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors
- Limited color options
The Sony A80L OLED TV showcases a sleek and minimalist design that exemplifies modern aesthetics. Its ultra-thin profile is accentuated by a nearly bezel-less screen, creating an immersive viewing experience that seems to float in the room. The premium metal construction not only adds durability but also lends a high-end feel to the overall appearance.
One of the standout features of the A80L’s design is its versatile stand. The three-way position stand allows users to customize the TV’s placement to suit their space and preferences. Whether opting for a wide stance for stability, a narrow position for smaller surfaces, or a raised setting to accommodate a soundbar, this flexibility enhances the TV’s adaptability to various home environments.
For those preferring a wall-mounted setup, the A80L’s slim profile makes it an excellent candidate. The TV sits close to the wall, creating a seamless look that complements modern interiors. Additionally, Sony has incorporated a thoughtful cable management system, ensuring a clean and organized appearance by concealing wires and connections.
Sony A80L OLED TV Review: Picture Quality
Pros
- Exceptional OLED contrast with deep blacks
- Accurate and vibrant colors
- Excellent motion handling
- Impressive upscaling of lower resolution content
Cons
- Peak brightness lower than some high-end competitors
- Slight color banding in some gradients
The Sony A80L OLED TV delivers outstanding picture quality that lives up to the high expectations set by its predecessors. At the heart of its impressive performance is the OLED panel, which provides perfect blacks and infinite contrast ratios, creating a stunning visual experience. The Cognitive Processor XR further enhances the image, delivering natural colors and lifelike brightness that closely replicates how we perceive the real world.
Color reproduction on the A80L is a standout feature, with the XR Triluminos Pro technology showcasing a wide and accurate color gamut. This results in vibrant and nuanced hues across various content types, from movies to sports. The TV’s motion handling is equally impressive, with minimal blur and smooth transitions in fast-moving scenes, making it an excellent choice for both cinephiles and sports enthusiasts.
While the A80L excels in many areas, it’s worth noting that its peak brightness, although sufficient for most viewing environments, falls slightly behind some high-end QLED competitors. However, this is offset by the OLED’s superior contrast and black levels, which contribute to an overall rich and immersive viewing experience. The TV also demonstrates impressive upscaling capabilities, breathing new life into lower resolution content and making it a versatile option for all types of media consumption.
Sony A80L OLED TV Review: Sound Quality
Pros
- Innovative Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology
- Immersive sound with clear dialogue
- Supports Dolby Atmos for enhanced audio
- Screen acts as multi-channel speaker
Cons
- Bass depth could be improved
- May still benefit from external speakers for larger rooms
The Sony A80L OLED TV sets itself apart in the audio department with its innovative Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology. This unique feature transforms the entire screen into a multi-channel speaker system, creating a truly immersive sound experience that matches the action on screen. The result is audio that feels more connected to the visuals, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Users consistently praise the A80L for its clear and well-balanced sound output. Dialogue comes through crisp and intelligible, directly from the screen rather than from below or above, which adds to the realism of the viewing experience. The TV also supports Dolby Atmos, further elevating its audio capabilities and creating a more three-dimensional soundstage that complements the stunning OLED picture quality.
While the A80L’s audio performance is impressive for a built-in TV speaker system, it’s not without limitations. Some users note that while the mid-range is expansive and dynamic, allowing for loud, cinematic sound without distortion, the bass depth could be improved. For those seeking the deepest low-end response, particularly in larger rooms, adding a dedicated subwoofer or a full external sound system might still be beneficial.
Sony A80L OLED TV Review: Smart Features
Pros
- Google TV platform offers extensive app selection
- Built-in voice control with Google Assistant
- Supports Apple AirPlay and works with Alexa
- Exclusive BRAVIA CORE streaming service
- User-friendly interface with personalized recommendations
Cons
- Occasional software glitches reported
- Limited customization options compared to some competitors
The Sony A80L OLED TV comes equipped with the Google TV smart platform, offering users a comprehensive and intuitive interface for accessing a wide array of streaming services and apps. This system provides personalized content recommendations based on viewing habits, making it easier for users to discover new shows and movies. The integration of Google Assistant allows for hands-free voice control, enabling users to search for content, adjust settings, and control smart home devices with simple voice commands.
One of the standout features of the A80L is the inclusion of Sony’s BRAVIA CORE streaming service. This exclusive platform offers high-quality movie streaming with bitrates up to 80 Mbps, promising near-lossless 4K UHD picture quality. Additionally, the TV supports Apple AirPlay for easy content sharing from iOS devices and works with Alexa, expanding its smart home integration capabilities.
While the Google TV platform is generally praised for its user-friendly interface and extensive app selection, some users have reported occasional software glitches or lag. However, these issues are often resolved through regular system updates. The smart features of the A80L also include a customizable home screen and a dedicated Game Menu, which centralizes all gaming-related settings for quick access during gameplay.
Sony A80L OLED TV Review: Gaming Performance
Pros
- Excellent 4K/120Hz support with VRR
- Low input lag of 16.5ms in Game mode
- Exclusive PlayStation 5 features
- Dedicated Game Menu for quick settings access
Cons
- Limited to two HDMI 2.1 ports
- No simultaneous Dolby Vision and 4K/120Hz
The Sony A80L OLED TV delivers impressive gaming performance, making it an excellent choice for console and PC gamers alike. Its support for 4K resolution at 120Hz refresh rate, coupled with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology, ensures smooth and responsive gameplay. The TV’s Game mode offers a respectable input lag of 16.5ms, providing a responsive gaming experience that should satisfy most players.
One of the standout features for PlayStation 5 owners is the inclusion of exclusive gaming enhancements. The A80L supports Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode, which automatically optimize picture settings for PS5 games. These features, combined with the TV’s exceptional OLED picture quality, create an immersive gaming experience with deep blacks and vibrant colors.
The A80L introduces a new Game Menu that centralizes all gaming-related settings, allowing quick access and adjustments during gameplay. This menu includes useful features like a black equalizer for better visibility in dark scenes and a crosshair overlay option. However, it’s worth noting that the TV is limited to two HDMI 2.1 ports, which may be a constraint for users with multiple high-end gaming devices.
While the gaming performance is generally excellent, there are a few limitations to consider. The A80L doesn’t support simultaneous Dolby Vision and 4K/120Hz output, requiring users to choose between these features. Additionally, unlike some competitors, it doesn’t offer support for NVIDIA G-Sync or AMD FreeSync, relying solely on the standard HDMI VRR implementation.
Sony A80L OLED TV Review: Conclusion
The Sony A80L OLED TV stands out as a top-tier choice in the competitive mid-range OLED market. Its combination of exceptional picture quality, innovative sound technology, and robust gaming features make it a versatile option for various users. The OLED panel, powered by Sony’s Cognitive Processor XR, delivers stunning visuals with deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast, creating an immersive viewing experience for movies and TV shows.
While the A80L excels in many areas, it’s not without limitations. The peak brightness, though sufficient for most viewing environments, falls short of some high-end QLED competitors. Additionally, with only two full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports, connectivity options for multiple high-end gaming devices may be limited. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sony A80L OLED TV offers exceptional value, balancing high-end features with a more accessible price point, making it a strong contender for those seeking a premium viewing experience without breaking the bank.