As a successor to their current high end Z4500 LCD series, Sony have launched the Z5500 line of LCD TV's in the UK.

The Z5500 retains the 200Hz motion-compensated frame interpolation (MCFI) technology of its predecessor which has developed a reputation for excellent motion handling capabilities. New to Sony's high end LCD panels is the latest incarnation of their renowned 'Bravia' picture processing engine which now appears as Bravia 3.

The panels will come in 40in, 46in and 52in sizes featuring Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution panels with an extra HDMI (4) over the outgoing high end screens. Also new is Applicast internet widget technology, DLNA media streaming and functions for reduced power consumption.

Sony are keen to point out that by incorporating some innovative energy saving innovations, the Z5500 series consumes 25 to 35% less power on average than the 2008 models. The new screens feature an auto shut-off function, which automatically switches the Z5500 to standby mode (less than 0.19W) if no input signal or operation is detected over a set period of time. An ambient light sensor optimizes the screens backlight, and Sony isn't even packing a paper manual which is embedded into the TVs XMB menu.

The Z5500 looks noticeably different to the outgoing model, Sony describing the minimalist approach as an extension to their 'Draw the line' styling concept.

The Z5500 series will be available in the UK late June and prices are likely to start at around £1800 for the 40in model.