Sony has launched the Bravia Master series of displays, it features the AF9 line for OLED panels and the ZF9 line is for LCD models.
Both the AF9 and ZF9 Master Series models come equipped with a newly developed, next-generation Picture Processor X1 Ultimate. It can detect and analyse each object in the picture through Sony’s new Object-based Super Resolution for accuracy and detail. Also, the Object-based HDR remaster has been notably updated and now allows each object to be remastered individually for better depth, accurate texture and all-in-all more realistic picture.
Also, the Master Series is applicable for CalMAN display calibration software* from Portrait Displays. CalMAN is used by professionals as a tool to ensure quality control of the strict requirements demanded by content creators in broadcast, production, and post-production. CalMAN eliminates the struggle of maintaining the picture quality throughout the life of the TV. (*Requires CalMAN calibration software to be installed on a PC, a pattern generator, a meter (colorimeter, spectrophotometer etc.), and “CalMAN for BRAVIA” app to be downloaded from Google Play and installed on the display)
The flagship AF9 TV comes equipped with the Pixel Contrast Booster, which is Sony’s original panel controller for OLED. It maximises the dynamic range by widening the area of colour reproduction at high brightness.
Audio for the AF9 OLED TV is provided via Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology. Acoustic Surface was first introduced last year with the A1 series followed by the AF8 this year. The improved Acoustic Surface Audio+ gets an additional actuator in the centre of the screen and an extra subwoofer channel, totaling to a 3.2 channel sound system. The additional centre actuator acts just like centre speakers hidden behind an AT (acoustically transparent) screen which are found in cinemas. With the three actuators and two subwoofers facing sideways, the AF9 creates a sound field that enhances the viewing experience. Also, the AF9 has a centre speaker mode that allows the Acoustic Surface Audio+ to be used as the centre speaker of a home theatre system.
Sony will announce the availability date of the Master Series in Europe at a later time.