Sony KDL-32EX524 review

Don't let the size or price fool you – this TV is packed with clever features and delivers decent pictures

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Sony KDL-32EX524
Sony has upgraded their menu interface from the Xross Media Bar to something a bit more user-friendly

TechRadar Verdict

Pros

  • +

    Lots of features

  • +

    Revamped onscreen menus

  • +

    Freeview HD

  • +

    Excellent web video quality

  • +

    USB recording

  • +

    Skype and smartphone control

Cons

  • -

    Motion blur

  • -

    Pricey peripherals

  • -

    Contrast could be better

  • -

    Slightly plasticky build

  • -

    Couldn't stream music

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Sony's KDL-32EX524 is described as a 'great all-rounder' and 'family friendly'. This is normally a euphemistic way of saying that there aren't many flashy features on board – but that's not the case with this impressively specified little TV.

Sony has stuffed it full of features but kept it at a reasonably wallet-friendly price, which gets even friendlier if you shop around online. And it certainly is a great all-rounder, able to deliver hi-def pictures and play content from a variety of sources including USB devices and Blu-ray players – as well as providing access to online content through Sony's magnificent Bravia Internet Video portal and streaming content from other devices around the home.

The KDL-32EX524 is one of four 32-inch sets in the latest EX range, alongside the KDL-32EX523, KDL-32EX723 and KDL-32EX724.

The difference between the 32-inch '523' and '524' models is that the latter adds the new Presence Sensor feature and USB hard-disk drive (HDD) recording, while the step-up KDL-32EX724 throws even more features into the mix for a £200 premium, including 3D support, MotionFlow XR 200, 100Hz processing, S-Force Front Surround, built-in Wi-Fi and smartphone control.

If you want to go even bigger, try the KDL-37EX524, KDL-40EX523, KDL-40EX524 or the 46-inch KDL-46EX524.

Although it lacks the wow factor of Sony's high-end 'designer' sets, the KDL-32EX524 is still a good-looking TV. Slim and fitted with a sleek black bezel, it looks suitably modern without going overboard, and particularly nice is the shimmering brushed finish below the screen that houses the LEDs and IR sensor.

There are no touch-sensitive controls, though, so the row of buttons tucked away around the side is your only means of up-close control, which is difficult to access when it's tucked in a tight space. The supplied swivel stand takes minimal effort to attach, although its plasticky build is below par.

On the back, Sony has provided a tidy selection of sockets. There are three HDMI inputs – a fourth is found on the side – as well as component, Scart, analogue stereo and PC audio inputs and an optical digital audio output. Joining the HDMI on the side are two USB inputs, which is very useful, given that Wi-Fi support requires a proprietary dongle – when connected it leaves the other USB port free for multimedia playback. A CI slot, headphones output and 15-pin D-Sub PC input completes the lineup.

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Daniel Phillips