Samsung LN46B630Well, so far – so good.
Just received the TV this afternoon, and setup was a snap. HDMI inputs are plentiful (three on the back, one on the side), and fortunately there are also inputs for Composite (two, both on the back), and an old-style RCA video input (also on the side). The set also allows for connections of USB, PC-out, digital audio optical input. You can also hook the set up to your LAN with a standard Ethernet connector (sorry kids, no WiFi yet).
**EDIT: Ok, let me clarify something here. The set WILL support WiFi with the appropriate USB adapter (direct link:Samsung WIS09ABGN LinkStick Wireless LAN Adapter) , but since it’s not included with the set as-is, hence the above comment about WiFi. END EDIT**
The stand assembly was simple (8 screws and done). The stand also rotates slightly (20 degrees left/right off center), which while not uncommon, is a plus. Also worth mentioning, the stand also incorporates Samsung’s “Touch of Color” so the front bezel has a light red stripe, co conform with the same stripe on the bezel of the TV. I’m honestly not sure what the point of the “Touch of Color” is, but if nothing else, it makes the TV easier to find in the dark (sarcasm is like a second language to me, by the way). I mention the stand only because I originally planned to put the set on a console-style table, until I found my old wall-mount (see below for more on that).
Speaking of finding things in the dark however, I must also mention that the remote for the TV, while not appearing to be able to be able to control other devices (standard fast-forward, pause, etc… style buttons at the bottom of the remote are used to control slideshows, etc) all of the buttons are back-lit, with a highlighted “on/off” button. This IS a thoughtful idea, and one that I wish many more TV designers will implement.
Thus far the set has performed admirably, HDMI output from my cable provider is clear and sharp. A few simple adjustments to adjust the set for my specific room (and my particular taste) conditions, and everything is gorgeous. I also have tried out an older (non-upconverting) DVD player via Component inputs as well, and “Fringe” looks damn-near perfect.
Sound however is another matter. There’s really only SO much you can do with two speakers, and Samsung has done a VERY good job with adjustments and whatnot, but let’s face it – if you’re buying a 46-inch TV, you probably already have a MUCH better stereo ready to roll. If not – well, this would be the ONLY caveat emptor I would point out (and it’s STILL not a big enough deal to make me reduce my 5-star rating either, so there).
Ok, one note worth mentioning here, as I had to play “find the correct-sized bolt” to use my old wall-mount: The bolts you will need are standard 8-mm x 25-mm sizes that will easily screw into the back of the set.
One more item – make all your back-side connections before you hang the set. This may sounds like a “DUH” suggestion, but trust me from experience, you tend to get excited and forget to think EVERYTHING through when setting something like this up for the first time.
I must also commend the delivery company (CEVA) as they were courteous, friendly and helpful. They didn’t offer to set the set up, but they did carry the set through the house, and placed it (VERY carefully) in the room in which it was to be set up in.
For the money, I really have to say this is one of the most impressive TV sets I’ve bought. Excellent image quality, decent (for a TV) sound, and extraordinarily intuitive and simple setup process.
If I have any further insights as I move through my ownership journey, I’ll be sure to add them here.
Thanks for reading.
Reviewed by : Fitzy “A book is like a garden carried in the pocket”, Sep 9. 2009
