Samsung LN40A650

At first glance, you know there is something different about Samsung’s LN40A650. The eye-catching red trim around the edge of the TV definitely makes it stand out in a crowd. Throw in the 120Hz refresh rate and the 1080p resolution and it’s a package deal in style and performance.

On this high-end LDC TV, the moving pictures have a much smoother look: the motion blur is almost gone. With the 1080p resolution, the Samsung LN40A650 is able to produce some of the best HD images anywhere, making this TV stand far above most other models on the market.

Standout Features

•  120Hz refresh rate
•  1920x1080 resolution
•  10,000:1 contrast ratio
•   4 HDMI ports

Features

The Samsung LN40A650 is among the top TVs in Samsung’s lineup. It features the same glossy-black chassis found in its lower models, except with a red (scarlet) trim below the screen. This is also where the speakers and buttons are located, leaving the TV looking tidy and trim.

An LCD TV in general, is better for your needs if you’re planning on putting it in a room that has a lot of light. However, with its shiny screen, the Samsung LN40650 reflects a lot of room lighting. This may make it difficult to watch the big game on Sunday afternoon. But Samsung says the shiny screen helps with the contrast ratio, allowing it to produce some of the deepest and truest blacks found on the market today. The problem with all LCD TVs is that rather than getting a true black, it tends to go more toward purple. By increasing the contrast ratio to 10000:1 on Samsung’s 650 it helps make the blacks darker on the LCD screen.

Samsung’s 650 series has some of the latest in viewing capabilities. The 120Hz refresh rate gives a smoother look to moving pictures, which looks noticeably different compared to the other makes and models that have 70Hz or lower. The motion blur is almost gone. Aaron Griffith, who has been selling TVs for five years, said, “It gives it a much cleaner look, a lot more depth.”

Watching sports or even playing video games takes on a whole new level of clarity with the Samsung 650. The 120Hz also makes the picture look true to life when the camera is panning. The only problem, Griffith said, is that when the scenes move too fast, the images start to look computerized.

The 1920x1080 resolution means images on the screen are cleaner and crisper. Again, when put up next to other models with lower resolution, there is a definite visual difference. Also, one of the biggest benefits with the 1080p is the high-definition compatibility with the new Blu-ray technology. It makes it possible for you to use Blu-ray to its fullest capabilities. It just looks better with 1080p.

The future of DVD players and other hookups for your TV involves fewer wires and cables. HDMI, or High-Definition Multimedia Interface, ports are becoming a standard in LCD TVs. A good standard is to generally go with one more HDMI port than you think you will need.

Need to connect 3 HD sources? No problem, as the Samsung LN40A650 comes with 4 HDMI connections. This can reduce the jumble of cabling behind your TV and other add-ons to a single cable and connector. To top it off, a built-in digital tuner will grab all your local HD channels with nothing more than an antenna.

Summary of Reviews from Across the Internet

A TV with this many features is bound to please many and the experts agree. Expert reviewers are impressed with the picture. They said the 120Hz refresh rate is noticeably better than TVs without this feature. The hot keys on the remote are also a plus.

Users like the way this TV looks both turned on and off. Ample connection options and an easy-to-use menu were also well received.

Summary

For those looking for a higher-end TV, the Samsung LN40A650 should definitely be put on the short list of TVs to consider.

To get the ultimate in picture viewing experience, the Samsung LN40A650 combines the 120Hz refresh rate and the 1080p to provide a smoother, cleaner, and crisper image. With the attractive black chassis and red trim, this TV will look good on any of your walls.

To get tips on how to mount your new Samsung 650 to the wall, check out TopTenREVIEWS guide on what you need to do to get that screen mounted just right.

Or, if you’ve already got it up and going, check out TopTenREVIEWS’ advice on how to get the most out of your HDTV.