Sony have released 40in, 46in and 52in versions of their high end Z5500 LCD TV's with 200Hz and the latest incarnation of their renowned 'Bravia' picture processing engine which now materializes as Bravia 3.

The Z5500 replaces Sony's Z4500 series, retaining the 200Hz motion-compensated frame interpolation (MCFI) technology of its predecessor which has developed a solid reputation for good motion handling capabilities.

The new screens feature Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution panels with an extra HDMI (4) over the outgoing Z4500 series. Also new is DLNA media streaming along with Applicast internet widget technology.

Along with other manufacturers, Sony have incorporated a number of 'green' features on their latest LCD TV's. The Z5500 series consumes 25 to 35% less power on average than the 2008 models and 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 TV's XMB menu.

The Z5500 looks noticeably different to the outgoing model, becoming one of the more stylish flat panel TV's around. Sony describe the minimalist approach as an extension to their 'Draw the line' styling concept.

The Z5500 series is available in UK stores now.

Sony Bravia KDL-40Z5500  

Sony Bravia KDL-46Z5500  

Sony Bravia KDL-52Z5500