LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- (CES, Booth #17300) -- Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the new MASTER Series Z9G 8K LCD and A9G 4K OLED televisions. Sony's MASTER Series TVs represent the pinnacle of picture quality available to home viewers, capable of displaying images that faithfully convey the creators' intent. The MASTER Series is the name given to only the very best Sony TVs and provides premium picture quality, color, contrast and clarity approaching that of a professional-grade monitor. The MASTER Series TVs also feature Netflix Calibrated Mode and IMAX Enhanced to further ensure that content is delivered as intended.

Both new models feature the latest generation Picture Processor X1™ Ultimate for accurate detail and contrast. Introduced last fall with the inaugural MASTER Series models, this processor plays a vital role in delivering the high-quality picture in the MASTER Series. The Picture Processor X1 Ultimate has a unique algorithm specially developed for 8K that can intelligently detect and analyze each object in the picture, resulting in exceptional detail and contrast for a more realistic picture that represents the creators' intent. Premium quality sound is a key part of the viewing experience as well, and both the A9G and Z9G models have the new Sound-from-Picture Reality feature, which faithfully reproduces the position of the sound on the screen so when actors are speaking, the sound appears to be coming directly from their mouths and not from a speaker off to the bottom.

"Continually innovating to exceed our customers' expectations is a core element of Sony's premium strategy," said Mike Fasulo, president and chief operating officer of Sony Electronics North America. "Our new MASTER Series TVs combine larger screen sizes, 4K and 8K resolution, and unique Sony image-enhancing technologies to create an extraordinary and highly immersive viewing experience."

Z9G Super-large Sized TVs
Larger TVs are becoming more popular, and Sony's goal with delivering new Z9G 98" and 85" class (97.5" and 84.6" diagonal) TVs is to maximize the super-large screen experience in the living room. In order to deliver premium picture quality in such extra-large screens, Sony is introducing extra resolution with its first consumer 8K television. With twice the number of horizontal lines and vertical lines, 8K provides four times the pixels of 4K (or 16 times the resolution of HD). This higher resolution results in a more immersive viewing experience as 8K resolution means the larger-sized TVs look great up close with virtually no pixel differentiation.

Experts know that picture quality is not only about resolution. As screen sizes get larger, the processor plays an even more critical role in delivering premium picture quality. Utilizing a proprietary algorithm, Sony's powerful Picture Processor X1 Ultimate has been optimized to handle the 33 million pixels of 8K. The same processor also enables the newly developed 8K X-Reality PRO to upscale any content using a new, dedicated 8K database for reference, resulting in even more precise, detailed upscaling. With a long history and expertise in developing professional cameras and monitors, Sony recognizes that precision in constructing fine signal processing components results in an immediately visible difference to the whole image.

In addition, completely new dedicated 8K technologies have been developed for the Z9G series, including a Backlight Master Drive feature with full-array local dimming and 8K X-tended Dynamic Range PRO. The Backlight Master Drive on the Z9G has ultra-dense LED modules that are independently controlled, delivering unprecedented contrast with punchy brightness and pitch blacks. To optimize this backlight system, 8K X-tended Dynamic Range PRO uses the saved energy to intelligently boost the brightness in the areas where it needs to be boosted.

Accurate sound position is another key factor as TVs get larger. Taking the experience gained from its OLED Acoustic Surface Audio, Sony has expanded the concept to the Z9G LCD TV with Acoustic Multi-Audio. To deliver the Sound-from-Picture Reality experience, the new Acoustic Multi-Audio on the Z9G utilizes four front-facing speakers—two on the bottom and two on the top—to deliver a faithful sound position. Viewers will hear the sound coming from the screen, and not where the speaker is located. In addition, the Z9G has a TV Center Speaker Mode for people who have a home theater setup, whereby the TV becomes the center speaker. The sound experience is also enhanced by the TV's compatibility with Dolby Atmos¹, which adds a wide, rich sound field.

The Z9G also features X-Wide Angle to ensure the picture retains its quality regardless of the viewing angle. This feature enables a wider viewing angle that reduces color shifts when viewing the screen off-axis, so colors stay true no matter the viewer's position, while X-Motion Clarity minimizes motion blur without sacrificing screen brightness.

A9G Premium OLED TV
The A9G is Sony's new flagship 4K OLED TV available in 77", 65" and 55" classes 76.7", 64.5", and 54.6" diagonal), all in a very slim form factor. Images come to life with the super-wide viewing angle, precise contrast and absolute blacks of OLED technology. Over 8 million self-illuminating pixels are precisely and individually controlled by Sony's Picture Processor X1™ Ultimate. In addition to the processor, the A9G has Pixel Contrast Booster for more color and contrast in bright areas. As a result, the A9G provides premium picture quality approaching that of a professional-grade monitor, showing images and colors as they truly are, and as the creator intended. The processor improves SD and HD content to near-4K HDR quality and shows 4K content with stunning clarity.

Acoustic Surface Audio+ provides a totally immersive sound experience with the sound coming from the entire screen, enveloping viewers in exciting new entertainment experiences and providing pictures and sound in perfect harmony. In addition, a TV Center Speaker Mode provides choice to use the TV as the center speaker.

The A9G is very slim in depth; when wall hung using the SU-WL855 wall mount system, it will fit close to the wall at around half the distance of Sony's previous model². This OLED TV is more than just beautiful. It is designed so that it appears to be floating on the wall, leaving only the brilliance of its picture. Furthermore, to provide the best viewing position and flexible usage, SU-WL855 has a swivel functionality as preferred.

For the ultimate in picture quality, the A9G pairs the brilliance of 4K clarity with the brightness, color and detail of High Dynamic Range (HDR). Previously hidden areas of dark shadow and sunlight are now full of clarity and detail. As with the Z9G, the A9G HDR TVs feature Netflix Calibrated Mode, IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Vision/Dolby Atmos to deliver the viewing experience just as the creator intended. On select Sony BRAVIA TVs, viewers can choose one IMAX Enhanced movie from a blockbuster selection, which includes Sony Pictures Entertainment's hit movie "Venom," using the IMAX Enhanced service 'Privilege 4K' available this spring. 

User Experience
Both the Z9G LCD and the A9G OLED feature Sony's Android TV, which supports a huge range of apps from Google Play™, including YouTube™, Netflix, Amazon Video, Hulu and more for deep smart home integration (availability varies by region). Both TVs also feature built-in Google Assistant to make your TV and home even smarter, and built-in microphones that will free users' hands. Viewers can simply talk to the TV using the Google Assistant to quickly find what they want, or to play TV shows, movies and more (Google Assistant availability depends on region). The TVs also work with popular smart speakers such as Sony's own LF-S50G and SRS-XB501G, or those from Google Home or Amazon Echo. With smart speakers, users can control their TV and stream content on their TV just by asking smart speakers – with more features to come later this year.

Sony Z9G Series, A9G Series and X950G Series TVs will be compatible with Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit³. AirPlay 2 lets you effortlessly stream content from your iPhone, iPad and Mac right to your Sony TV. Watch movies and TV shows from iTunes and your other video apps, and view photos directly on your Sony TV. Listen to Apple Music, your iTunes music library, podcasts and your other music services on your television and AirPlay 2 speakers throughout the home — all in sync. HomeKit lets you easily and securely control smart home products using the Home app or by asking Siri on your Apple devices. These TVs can be added to the Home app and included in scenes or automations with other HomeKit accessories. For example, users can create a "Movie Night" scene in the Home app to easily turn on their TV and dim the lights, and simply ask Siri to launch the scene. AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support will launch in Z9G Series, A9G Series and X950G Series later this year.

Further enhancing the user experience, a new easy-to-control smart remote enables viewers to control their connected devices, such as cable/satellite boxes, Blu-ray disc player and game consoles (supported devices vary by region) without switching remote controllers. Also added to the smart remote is an RF so users can control the TV without pointing the remote, and a newly developed user interface brings seamless and quick access to users' favorite apps and settings.

New Sony TV Models and Key Features

MASTER Series Z9G 98" and 85" Class (97.5" and 84.6" diagonal) 8K LED TV Features

• Sony's 8K to bring the creator's intent to life with a truly authentic experience by combining the brilliance of 8K HDR with Sony's unique MASTER Series philosophy
• Picture Processor X1™ Ultimate and 8K X-Reality PRO – pictures are sharpened and refined in real time, and images are upscaled closer to true 8K quality using Sony's exclusive 8K database
• Backlight Master Drive, a full-array LED backlight technology that combines ultra-dense, independently controlled LED modules tuned for 8K to deliver incredibly deep black, dazzling lights and more vibrant color
• HDMI 2.1 that supports 8K resolution and 4K High Frame Rate in a single cable (requires firmware)
• 8K X-tended Dynamic Range™ PRO that delivers 20 times the contrast of Sony's conventional LED TVs without local dimming
• Acoustic Multi-Audio by four front-facing speakers; with Sony's Sound-from-Picture Reality experience, action and sound are precisely aligned for a more immersive viewing experience
• TV Center Speaker Mode, to make the TV the center speaker of a home theater system
• X-Wide Angle feature minimizes the color change when seen from the side, giving you faithful shades and hue from wherever you watch the TV
• X-Motion Clarity keeps fast action clear and smooth; moving images are precisely controlled to minimize blur and even during fast-moving scenes, pictures stay true with no loss in brightness
• Netflix Calibrated Mode brings the creator's vision directly to the TV
• IMAX Enhanced feature brings a fully immersive at-home entertainment experience on this TV that takes full advantage of IMAX Enhanced content
• Dolby Vision™ brings scenes vividly to life for authentic viewing, while Dolby Atmos™ fills the room with immersive surround sound
• Android TV with hands-free help from the Google Assistant enables you to find what you want simply by talking to the TV; ask your Google Assistant to help you play TV shows, movies and more
• Easy to control smart remote – connect set-top boxes and other devices via HDMI to your TV and control them all using one smart remote; a slimmer, more rounded design with built-in voice control microphone and enhanced button layout makes it easy to use
• New processor for stress-free usability and a quicker response when launching apps, powering on the TV and more

MASTER Series A9G 77", 65" and 55" Class (76.7", 64.5", and 54.6" diagonal) 4K OLED TV Features

• OLED televisions that faithfully convey the creator's intent by delivering unprecedented black, authentic color and a wide viewing angle
• Picture Processor X1™ Ultimate provides the ultimate 4K HDR viewing experience with the following technologies: Object-based Super Resolution, Object-based HDR remaster, Super Bit Mapping™ 4K HDR, and dual database processing
• Pixel Contrast Booster – eight million self-illuminating pixels and Sony-original panel controller for OLED that brings a significantly enriched visual experience
• Acoustic Surface Audio+ – two actuators and two powerful subwoofers deliver multi-dimensional sound that immerses you in a whole new entertainment experience
• TV Center Speaker Mode provides choice to use the TV as the center speaker; beautifully detailed images combine with our Sound-from-Picture Reality for a captivating audio-visual performance
• Slim wall mount design fits as close as a picture and blends effortlessly with your room
• Netflix Calibrated Mode brings the creator's vision directly to the TV
• IMAX Enhanced feature brings a fully immersive, at-home entertainment experience on this TV that takes full advantage of IMAX Enhanced content
• Dolby Vision™ brings scenes vividly to life for authentic viewing, while Dolby Atmos™ fills the room with immersive surround sound
• Android TV with hands-free help from the Google Assistant enables you to find what you want simply by talking to the TV; ask your Google Assistant to help you play TV shows, movies and more
• Easy to control smart remote – connect set-top boxes and other devices via HDMI to your TV and control them all using one smart remote; a slimmer, more rounded design with built-in voice control microphone and enhanced button layout makes it easy to use
• New processor for stress-free usability and a quicker response when launching apps, powering on the TV and more

A8G Series 65" and 55" Class (64.5" and 54.6" diagonal) BRAVIA OLED 4K TV Features

• OLED as display device – 8 million self-illuminating OLED pixels brings a significantly enriched visual experience with unprecedented black, rich color and a wide viewing angle
• 4K HDR Processor X1 Extreme provides the ultimate 4K HDR viewing experience by incorporating three new technologies: Object-based HDR remaster, Super Bit Mapping™ 4K HDR, and dual database processing
• Acoustic Surface Audio makes the entire screen resonate with great sound emanating directly from the screen itself; this allows Sound-from-Picture Reality, a perfect unification of picture and sound that conventional TVs cannot deliver
• Designed to enable ideal sound bar position – rotate the stand 180° and it will rise up so you can easily place your sound bar
• IMAX Enhanced brings a fully immersive, at-home entertainment experience on this TV that takes full advantage of IMAX Enhanced content
• Compatible with Dolby Vision™, which brings scenes vividly to life for authentic viewing
• Android TV with Google Assistant built-in, enabling you to find what you want quickly, simply by talking; ask your Google Assistant to help you play TV shows, movies and more

X950G Series 85", 75", 65" and 55" classes (84.6", 74.5", 64.5" 54.6" diagonal) 4K TV Features

• Picture Processor X1™ Ultimate provides the ultimate 4K HDR viewing experience with the following technologies: Object-based Super Resolution, Object-based HDR remaster, Super Bit Mapping™ 4K HDR and dual database processing
• Full-array local dimming backlight with X-tended Dynamic Range™ PRO provides six-times the contrast of Sony's conventional LED TVs without local dimming
• Acoustic Multi-Audio by Sound Positioning Tweeters – with Sony's Sound-from-Picture Reality experience, action and sound are precisely aligned for a more immersive viewing experience
• X-Wide Angle feature minimizes the color change when seen from the side, giving you faithful shades and hue from wherever you watch the TV (available in 85" and 75" models)
• X-Motion Clarity keeps fast action clear and smooth; moving images are precisely controlled to minimize blur and even during fast-moving scenes, pictures stay true with no loss in brightness
• Netflix Calibrated Mode brings the creator's vision directly to the TV
• IMAX Enhanced brings a fully immersive, at-home entertainment experience on this TV that takes full advantage of IMAX Enhanced content
• Dolby Vision™ brings scenes vividly to life for authentic viewing, while Dolby Atmos™ fills the room with immersive surround sound
• Android TV with hands-free help from the Google Assistant enables you to find what you want simply by talking to the TV; ask your Google Assistant to help you play TV shows, movies and more
• Easy to control smart remote – connect set top boxes and other devices via HDMI to your TV and control them all using one smart remote; a slimmer, more rounded design with built-in voice control microphone and enhanced button layout makes it easy to use
• New processor for stress-free usability and a quicker response when launching apps, powering on the TV and more

Pricing and Availability
Pricing and retail availability will be announced in spring 2019. The MASTER Series televisions will be on sale at BestBuy and other authorized dealers nationwide. For more information on Sony televisions, please visit www.sony.com/electronics/tv/t/televisions

Stay connected with Sony's announcements and activities at CES and many other events throughout the year by downloading the Sony Events app, available through the Apple App Store and Google Play Store by searching for "Sony Events." To follow the online conversation via Twitter, use #SONYCES, and visit www.sony.com/electronics/ces for lots more Sony CES information.

About Sony Electronics Inc. 
Sony Electronics is a subsidiary of Sony Corporation of America and an affiliate of Sony Corporation (Japan), one of the most comprehensive entertainment companies in the world, with a portfolio that encompasses electronics, music, motion pictures, mobile, gaming, robotics and financial services. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Sony Electronics is a leader in electronics for the consumer and professional markets. Operations include research and development, engineering, sales, marketing, distribution and customer service. Sony Electronics creates products that innovate and inspire generations, such as the award-winning Alpha Interchangeable Lens Cameras and revolutionary high-resolution audio products. Sony is also a leading manufacturer of end-to-end solutions from 4K professional broadcast and A/V equipment to industry leading 4K Ultra HD TVs. Visit www.sony.com/news for more information.

¹ Software update is necessary. Available in 2019.
² Compared to A9F series using a compatible wall mount system.
³ Third-party network services, content, and software may be subject to separate terms and conditions and changed, interrupted or discontinued at any time and may require fees, registration and credit card information.

SOURCE Sony Electronics