Sony Monitors

Loobeylou

Am thinking about completely re-jigging my home computer system, and I may go down the line of getting someone locally to build the box components, but then to purchase the monitor and keyboard separately.

With this in mind, has anyone had anything to do with Sony monitors - good or bad? I want either a 17" or 19" (preferably the larger), something stylish, but really do not have much idea when it comes to things like response time, etc.

Plus how are they are dead pixels, and if this brand is not good, can anyone advise an alternative?

My main use is for letters, spreadsheets and internet, but also I have two young grandsons who like to play computer games.

Can anyone help on this please?

Mr_Skint_2

I ordered 3 of these for a job I did and the customer is very happy.

The SDM-X series display is designed to meet your business needs. Its fast response rate (12 ms) and enhanced brightness provide superior image quality and precision. The Advanced Eco-Mode auto-adjusts screen settings to give the best picture in varying lighting conditions and the integrated speakers reduce cable clutter on the desk and the need for extra power sockets. Its flat bezel enables you to fit multiple screens next to each other easily.
The new SDM-X display also comes with keyboard-video-mouse technology: connect a mouse and a keyboard to your display and control 2 USB connected PCs. Switch between PCs at the press of a button and save yourself the cost of an additional keyboard, mouse and display when using two computers at the same time!
Viewable area: 17"
Response time: 12 ms
Maximum resolution: 1280 x 1024
Contrast ratio: 450:1
Brightness: 300 cd / m²
Pixel pitch (W x H): 0,264 x 0.264 mm
Viewing angles (horizontal - vertical): 160° - 160°
Analogue / digital inputs: 1 x HD15 + 1 x DVI-D
KVM technology: 2 USB up (to connect keyboard and mouse); 2 USB down (to connect 2 PCs)
Audio output: integrated speakers (2 x 1 W)
DDC-CI (Display Data Channel Command Interface): provides increased control over monitor settings
Bezel colour: black - also available in silver (SDM-X75KS)

From the sony site

wolfman

Nice tft's, although in recent reviews they've finished middle of the table. One of the developers here has one (waiting for him to go on holiday then I'll swap it for my Samsung!) and it's very nice.

Also might be worth having a look at the Sharp LL-172GB. It's gets very good reviews and may still be on PC Pro's A-List selection. I've got one at home, the picture quality is excellent, and the build quality too is especially very good.

The LL-173GB is out, but hasn't got as good a review, so try to avoid the newer model. The LL-172GB retails at just over £200, gets my recommendation.

Loobeylou

Anyone with further thoughts on this?

Loobeylou

One shop we have been to has been plugging a 19" Optronix TFT DVI monitor for £235 - anyone have any knowledge of how good or otherwise these are?

Kommunist

I read recently a very good review (and a very technical too!) on several 17" monitors.
In short, here is what they say regarding Sony monitors:

Sony SDM-HS75 - choose if looks is more important than everything else. Low measured contrast.
Sony SDM-S74E - typical TN+ montor, but better than HS75.

Out of all tested models (these were Asus, LG, Samsung, AG Neovo, Sony, Mitsubishi, NEC and Viewsonic) they concluded that only two models are really stand out:
If you want TN+ matrix (good for games, bad for everything else), go for Samsung 720B or 721. If you want good colours, viewing angles and high contrast, go for Samsung 720T (MVA matrix).

I am not sure if someone still makes 17" monitors based on S-IPS but if you could find one, then it worth to be considered as well.

Loobeylou

One shop we have been to has been plugging a 19" Optronix TFT DVI monitor for £235 - anyone have any knowledge of how good or otherwise these are?