Samsung’s C8000 series LED LCD HDTVs feature 3D playback, Full HD (1080p) and Samsung’s new technology, Pinpoint Dimming, which brings local dimming, previously only available with full array LED backlighting, to edge-led LED LCD HDTVs. The C8000 models have a 240 Hz (quadruple normal) refresh rate to reduce blurring of objects in fast motion on-screen.

The Samsung C8000 series consists of three models; the 65 inch UN65C8000, 55 inch UN55C8000 and the 46 inch UN46C8000. The C8000 models can be distinguished from other series by the brushed titanium Touch of Color and a rectangular base rather than the quad leg base of some other models. They do however have the razor thin profile of less than an inch typical to all the LED LCD models this year.

Samsung’s Precision Dimming technology uses special edge mounted LEDs enable the controlled lighting of variable size, diamond-shaped areas effectively providing local dimming. Higher contrast ratios, deeper blacks and energy savings are achieved by lighting being varied in intensity to match what is required for the frame being shown. Edge-lit displays can have a 30% to 40% cost advantage over full array LED panels and allow the manufacture of thinner display displays. In the case of the C8000, the Precision Dimming delivers a dynamic contrast ratio of 8,000,000:1 compared to 6,000,000:1 for the C7000 series which does not have Precision Dimming. A static contrast ratio (not provided) would be better for judging the relative performance as Precision (Local) Dimming provides a much better result than global dimming (lowering and raising the backlight brightness as a whole).

Samsung’s C8000 series has extensive connectivity options, including and Internet and network access, that will likely shift the typical usage pattern from scheduled programming to the on-demand delivery typical of Internet use. On-demand entertainment options include network and Internet connectivity for live information feeds (including InfoLink RSS Service), real time movie downloads, network access to digital media storage devices (including PCs) and HDMI enabled access to connected AV devices.

For a full review of other features see our Samsung C7000 series review.

Resources

Comparison of LED LCD vs Plasma HDTV

HDTV Recommended Viewing Distances

User Reviews and Price Comparisons

Samsung UN55C8000 55-Inch 1080p 3D 240 Hz LED HDTV

Samsung UN46C8000 46-Inch 1080p 3D 240 Hz LED HDTV