Samsung LN22B360 22-Inch 720p LCD HDTV
- 22-inch high definition TV with 720p resolution
- One HDMI, two component, and one composite video input
- Improved picture with 15,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 8ms response time and Wide Color Enhancer 2 technology
- Two 3W bottom speakers and SRS TruSurround HD for a rich surround-sound experience from two speakers
- One-year parts and labor warranty
or smaller rooms or out-of-the-way spaces, this 22″ HDTV offers a ton of brilliance, while fitting in perfectly. It sports Wide Color Enhancer 2 and SRS TruSurroundHD technologies, and is ENERGY STAR compliant.
Rating: 
(out of 58 reviews)
List Price: $ 329.99
Price:
Sony Bravia S-Series KDL-32S5100 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV, Black
- Full Hd 1080P Resolution And Stunning Contrast
- Features Advanced Contrast Enhancer (Ace) For An Impressive Dynamic Contrast Ratio Of 30,000:1
- Digital Video Processor For A Superior Resolution
- 2 Component And 1 Pc Are Provided To Connect All Of Your Hd Devices Including Playstation 3
- High-End Quality
Sony’s S-series TVs put amazing picture quality and stunning dynamic contrast in reach for value-oriented consumers who want to step up into the Sony Full HD 1080p experience. These TVs represent the entry-level models in Sony’s large screen offerings in 2009 and offer the superior resolution and contrast, advanced image processing features, and variety of HD input options available on high-end BRAVIA HDTVs — all in an affordable package. With three HDMI connections, you can hook up a Sony PlayStation3 entertainment system, Blu-ray Disc player, or any other HDMI-capable equipment and get uncompressed digital video and multi-channel digital audio on a single cable. You also have numerous other HD connection options, including YPbPr Comp
Rating: 
(out of 57 reviews)
List Price: $ 699.99
Price: $ 479.88
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10 comments
MollyDawg
August 1, 2010
Review by MollyDawg for Samsung LN22B360 22-Inch 720p LCD HDTV
Rating:
I originally bought the LN22B350, the latest unit in this series, but had to return it. You can read my review on it, but in short, it was because despite the literature stating that it has one composite AND one component input, it actually should read one composite OR one component. You could only use one or the other because they share the video input jack. So, after viewing an actual image of the input panel on this unit, I took a baby step back and ordered the B360.
Wait a minute! Amazon gave me a backhanded “upgrade” by erroneously shipping the LN22A450. The 4 series is better than the 3 series, but the A series is older than the B series. They were willing to let me keep it, but after doing a little bit of research I found that the technology has leapt forward since it was made. Among other things, it had only a 3000:1 contrast ratio whereas this one has 15,000:1. These days there’s little difference between the massive numbers spun out by manufacturers unless you’re in a high tech calibration setting, but when you talking one that low, it’s not a good thing. So, one more swap and I got the LN22B360.
I really like this set. Unless you’re an audiophile, there’s not a single thing wrong with the sound. There are different settings and a bit of an equalizer to customize, and at the level of 44, the volume is excellent. People just need to understand that no manufacturer is going to put high end audio in a unit at this price point. The 22-inch set is not the one you want to pay $500 for, or should need that kind of audio. You’re not going to get a lot of the bells and whistles you get with the bigger sets because that’s not what people are using their small TVs for.
So after one that was too new for my old equipment, and one that was too old for the new technology, this one is just right. I chose Samsung for the on/off timer, of which this unit has three, and the options there are better than expected–select all days, weekdays, weekends, etc. The set-up was easy, the remote balanced (though no back light), buttons are a good size and arranged fairly intelligently. The smaller screen makes the 720p and 60hz non-issues. Since I don’t pay for premium services, it was nice to see several channels airing in HD without a converter box. And on the down-low, I’m getting intermittent On Demand broadcasts, though I do wish whoever ordered them would take fewer potty breaks. Too much pausing and rewind. LOL!
I’m very satisfied with this purchase and hope to buy its big brother (46″) in the future after I’m sure Samsung is the way to go (and I think it is).
UPDATE 12/22/09 — Just wanted to add that I’m still liking this TV. It completely meets my needs and expectations, although the On Demand feed stopped, darn it!
R. Nieuwpoort
August 1, 2010
Review by R. Nieuwpoort for Samsung LN22B360 22-Inch 720p LCD HDTV
Rating:
I’m not very good at the specifics, But I just had to be the first to say this is an excellent LCD. I Replaced my 19′ Samsung with this 21′ & I’ve been Impressed by the picture. The much needed improvements needed over the LN19A450 were very much needed.
This is a third gen LCD; sound is a little better with adjustments, but still the same speakers (Use Exteral Speakers), picture is much better & with the adustable backlight feature makes the picture a much deeper, richer screen to view. It has all the hookups you’ll need Except it only has 1-HDMI input. The Price is Right & Shipping is Free.
Okemdi Oparaeke
August 1, 2010
Review by Okemdi Oparaeke for Samsung LN22B360 22-Inch 720p LCD HDTV
Rating:
I got this T.V. off amazon in march and I’ve had it for a little more than two weeks. I am very impressed with the product; it is a great T.V. for my ROOM, which is why I can’t understand the problems people are having with the sound. First of all, the T.V. has good sound for one that is more suited for a bedroom (not a master sized); I don’t believe it’s best suited for either the kitchen or living room (both too big). If you are that concerned about the sound, you can just plug in some computer speakers in the headphone jack for some richer sound, samsung didn’t just build that in the set to make it look pretty. And if you’re looking for a more expensive solution, then there’s always digital audio. It’s silly to expect that you’re going to get the same kind of sound from a 22′ inch that you would get on a 32′ inch or larger. But everyone seems to agree that it has an excellent picture; images are clear and crisp, even in standard definition. Don’t be influenced by the “bad sound” comments, it’s a good buy.
T Brown
August 1, 2010
Review by T Brown for Samsung LN22B360 22-Inch 720p LCD HDTV
Rating:
This is a top notch HDTV for an excellent price… well below the equivalent at a Best Buy.
To begin with, this TV is attractive even when off. When on, the screen is bright and crisp. I’ve had no problems using it with either my PS3 or Wii… the “game mode” seems to do its job very well in minimizing the lag common in HDTVs. Assassin’s Creed looks amazing, as does Mario Galaxy.
The TV has very full customizeability of picture, and I’ve had no problem making dark movies bright enough.
Contrary to some of the reviews here, I think the speakers are very satisfactory. They don’t have a completely full bass sound, no, but they are plenty loud for my apartment. Despite a lack of deep bass the speakers give generally full sound, and do a good job mimicking surround output. A little tip – turning on the “true surround” feature lowers the volume by quite a bit. Sound a little quiet? Then turn off the surround setting and “settle” with excellent stereo sound… at volume 45 the TV is plenty loud (and it goes to 100). I compared the sound of various TVs at Best Buy and I honestly think this little unit has phenomenal sound for its size class… if you want better speakers built into a ~3″ deep flat screen, well you are probably going to have to go for a fatter and larger TV. What do you want for such a slim unit?
The TV not having 1080P output isn’t much of a con… most TVs this size do not offer that, and when they “do” it is usually just a downscaling of 1080P signal to the screen rather than truly displaying it. 720P and 1080i look pretty darn slick compared to a CRT analogue TV, let me tell you! Again, the PS3 looks awesome.
So – good sound for the size-class, crisp bright screen, high contrast, good performance on games… all for ~$[...]!
It should have an S-video input. I’m not sure why it doesn’t. That made me a little sad, but I knew it didn’t when buying it. Just upgrade to component or HDMI where possible if you’ve got an s-video device
I have one real con for this TV – NOWHERE did I see this indicated – the TV has a completely unadjustable stand. On larger TVs, the stands don’t have to be adjustable because their viewing angles are so large. But a smaller TV at 22″ with a 160 degree viewing angle… it really does need to be able to tilt. I have it up on a dresser so I tucked some cardboard under the rear of the base to give it a slight tilt down. Thankfully the bright screen and decent viewing angles make this an acceptable arrangement, but if you have an off-optimal location for your TV consider the lack of adjustability when buying.
Still – excellent TV with better picture than a lot of the ones I’ve seen in stores. Definite steal at this price
A. Mason
August 1, 2010
Review by A. Mason for Samsung LN22B360 22-Inch 720p LCD HDTV
Rating:
Nice little TV,especially for a bedroom.If it’s hooked up to regular digital cable,then it’s difficult to get sharp image and color adjustments,however,if it’s hooked up to HD~BAM!~the picture is clean,crisp. Only one drawback,the speakers are weak..hook it up with external speakers and you’re good to go.
Vinnie A.
August 1, 2010
Review by Vinnie A. for Sony Bravia S-Series KDL-32S5100 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV, Black
Rating:
I AM UNABLE TO EDIT MY STAR RATING OR I WOULD DOWNGRADE IT TO TWO, MAYBE THREE STARS!!!
I bought this for my bedroom last week and am pretty happy with it. I have a 40″ XBR2 in the family room and this model’s picture is surprisingly comparable. I bought it through Amazon for MUCH less than BB or Sears. I do have a couple issues that prevent me from giving it five stars: first, it takes quite a long time for the picture to appear when you turn it on and switching inputs takes even longer than my XBR2. The other peave I have is setting the sleep timer; on most TV’s there’s a dedicated ‘Sleep’ button on the remote. On the S5100 you have to hit the ‘Tools’ button on the remote, select ‘Clock/Timers’, select your sleep time, then press the ‘Menu’ button to clear the on-screen menu. Wow! All-in-all, neither of those are that big of a deal, but the next issue is the one that’s provoking me to call Sony Customer Service. There is a significant amount of noise in the TV’s audio output — especially at low volume. It sounds like the signal is over-modulated, but at higher volume levels it’s not as noticable. I haven’t tried a set of external speakers to see if the noise is still there, but I have tried component, composite, and HDMI inputs all with the same results. Perhaps I’ll update this review with the results of my call to Sony.
UPDATE 5/1: I called Sony about the audio issue; they wanted to send out a technician. I opted to have J&R swap out the TV but the same exact problem exists on the replacement. I guess I’m going to take Sony up on their offer to send someone out. I can’t tolerate this problem considering it is our bedroom TV and is often used at low volume levels.
UPDATE 5/19: I just finished packing up the unit to return to J&R, who have been great BTW! The Sony tech acknowledged the problem and said that Sony tech support would probably tell him to replace the digital audio board, but unless the board has been redesigned he didn’t think it would resolve the problem. Sony Customer Service refused to help in any way; I asked for a refurbished XBR6 (last year’s only 32″ 1080p model) to replace this unit, and they said no. I asked for a discount on a new XBR9, and they said no. As the owner of several Sony products, including a 40″ XBR2 and a 36″ Wega, I am really quite surprised by Sony’s unwillingness to help resolve this issue. My brand loyalty has been shaken, and I will think twice before I buy another Sony product. BTW, I’m looking at the Panasonic and Samsung 1080 32″ models as a replacement.
Ethan T Ezaki
August 1, 2010
Review by Ethan T Ezaki for Sony Bravia S-Series KDL-32S5100 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV, Black
Rating:
I had the exact same problem as Vinnie A. I had the KDL-32S5100 in my bedroom and the sound at low levels on this TV is horrible. Multiple inputs HDMI, DVD player and Fios all sounded great on other TVs but this set made low level sound full of static. I replaced my TV with Sony support and the same exact problem! I now have 2 TVs to return that has become a major pain because sony doesn’t want return TVs they want to exchange for refurbished TVs. I have spent 8-10 hours on this problem and now I am very frustrated with the set and customer service. Bottom line is if you don’t use the speakers on this set then it is great 4 stars for picture (would be 5 but the DVD player only looks good if the total size of the picture is made to fit a 4:3 aspect ratio otherwise the TV stretches or zooms the image and distorts the picture). HDMI picture is great off a PS3 blue ray. Remember the sound is the problem for this set: You have been warned by 2 reviews that say this is a problem at low levels. FYI I am trying to return the sets and look into other brands because Sony has lost their touch, which is sad because my house looks like a sony store.
B. Plafke
August 1, 2010
Review by B. Plafke for Sony Bravia S-Series KDL-32S5100 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV, Black
Rating:
(I urge you to read this review before making a purchase, I know I wrote a lot, but they outline some very critical deal-breaking issues.)
My first HDtv, a Sylvania broke about after 2 years, and I decided to get this Sony after doing a bunch of HDtv research. I’m using the HD capabilities for gaming (Playstation 3 at 1080p, Wii at 480p) and just getting a regular coaxial cable signal for my TV shows.
1) First, as can be seen in various reviews for this TV, there are some sound issues. The one I experienced was that, sometimes, the speakers would get very pop/crackling sounding and also have an echo on top of that. This issue happened when you changed channels. You’d land on a channel, and the issue would begin and would not go away unless you changed channels (I left it on for a couple hours just for testing purposes). However, this TV has a new firmware on Sony’s support site which apparently directly addresses this issue. The first iteration of this model had the sound issue, but I got it before the new firmware came out, so I sent the first model back, and received the second one. The second one came with the new firmware and there was no more sound issue as far as I could tell.
2) This one bothered me more than the sound issue, as the sound issue only happened about once every 20-50 channel changes, and you could simply remove the echo sound just by changing channels. It’s a visual issue that was not fixed between my first set and the replacement one. It’s hard to describe; when a color would transition from a light color to a dark color in an image, you could see the actual separation lines of each gradient change, rather than just seeing a smooth transition of, for example, light blue to dark blue. It looked sort of like when you throw a stone into a pond, and the water ripples out in a circle from where the stone landed in the water–so the outer ripple would be dark blue, the next inner ripple would be a lighter blue, the inner ripple after that would be an even lighter blue, and so on. I thought maybe it was my PS3, my Wii, or possibly the HDMI/component cables I use for them, so I brought all of my equipment over to a couple friends’ houses and tested my stuff on their Sharp HDtv and a different model Sony Bravia–the issue was not present on my friends’ TVs. However, the issue is present on both KDL-32S5100 sets I had. This issue became very obnoxious when gaming, because it was very noticeable and pretty abundant. It would appear in skies (drastically in skies for some reason), smoke, floors, walls, etc–anything that’s mostly comprised of a solid color that has gradient changes–however, it does not appear on a static image (such as a wallpaper), only something animated. It also appeared when using composite cables, and appeared on every display signal (480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p).
) but said he wasn’t sure what was causing it, or even how to fix it. He did confirm, almost immediately, that this is a problem and shouldn’t be happening. Considering this happened on both sets of this model I received, it’s either a) a problem inherent in this model, b) a problem inherent in a certain batch of this model, or c) I’m ridiculously unlucky to get two brand new sets of this model and have the same issue in a row, which is unlikely.
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If you have a PS3 and this model TV, change your system theme to “Original” then change the color to blue–this is a pretty easy way to notice the gradient issue. Generally on the blue color, the bottom left hand corner starts out dark blue, then going to the top right, it changes to a light blue. Around the bottom left hand corner when everything is dark blue, the gradient issue is very noticeable. I asked my friends and family to see if they noticed anything, without telling them what the problem was, and every single one of them (even non-gamers who have no idea what the PS3′s original theme or games’ skies should look like) noticed the issue right away. On any other HDtv I’ve ever seen, this issue is not present. It may not be a big issue for some, but if you’re getting an HDtv, it’s probably because you care about the quality of your display, and you won’t be getting decent quality with this issue present.
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I had a Sony tech guy come out to look at the issue, and he said he’s never seen the issue before (what a Sony rep would say anyway, whether or not he has seen this issue before
3) After all of this, last night the TV stopped being able to receive signals from all 3 of its HDMI ports. It was very, very odd. My friend and I were playing around on the PS3 and everything was fine (not counting issue 2 described above). We finished, shut the PS3/TV off normally and went to get some coffee. Twenty minutes later we came back and turned on the PS3/TV, except the TV said it wasn’t getting a signal. So, everything was fine->we leave->we come back 20 minutes later->all 3 HDMI ports stopped working. The composite ports work fine as do the component ports. We had 2 different PS3s with 3 different HDMI cables to test out, and none of them worked on this TV, but they both worked on a friend’s Sharp directly after. Totally ridiculous.
I’ll update if I decide to give this model one last try and get yet another replacement, but right now, I’m looking into other brands.
Michael Martin
August 1, 2010
Review by Michael Martin for Sony Bravia S-Series KDL-32S5100 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV, Black
Rating:
Picture wise, this TV has been good/great. I’ve had it now for a week and the picture is superbly better than the two year old Samsung 32″ LCD it replaced. I did update the firmware but I still notice the contrast shift at times. However, the one glaring issue with this TV (and all Sony KDL-xxS5100 sets as I’ve found) is the lack of Dolby Digital 5.1 audio output.
Yes, the TV has an Optical Digital output that the manual states will output PCM audio. However, it does not list that it is limited to only 2 channel linear PCM audio (which I later found listed under the HDMI input specs on the unit). A call to Sony confirmed the flaw, and that it is intentionally done (though I am waiting to hear from a Sony engineer as to why this is). Frankly, I never considered that an ATSC/QAM tuner would not output 5.1 digital audio since it is part of the signal. And isn’t HDTV all about high definition video and audio?
This probably isn’t a problem for most people unless they don’t have a digital cable box and have surround sound, but either way, I’m not sure this can be legal. And like I didn’t have enough criteria when I was buying a TV before, but now I have to ask whether it outputs Dolby Digital 5.1??
I’ll update if/when I hear back from Sony. In the mean time, I am returning the TV and getting the Panasonic 37″ 1080p (which outputs 5.1 and fits in my entertainment cabinet).
Jonathon
August 1, 2010
Review by Jonathon for Sony Bravia S-Series KDL-32S5100 32-Inch 1080p LCD HDTV, Black
Rating:
I love Sony TV’s. They have always had a superior product but this time, this set is highly flawed and Sony is doing its best to still sell the inventory left at lower prices leaving you with an item to return or to tolerate.
The audio is DEFECTIVE on units dated thru AUG 2009. The sound bar on the screen will reflect this distortion on level 1-3. Beyond 3 and up, the louder audio mixes in with the distoration so that you hear less of it. It’s ultra annoying at lower sound settings.
I went into the menu trying various sound settings but was not unable to correct. I then called Sony who said they would make a case number and that a Sony repair agent would have to insert a USB correction device. Wait time was 2 months!
I took mine back to Best Buy and the manager at the store said he could give me another set but that all of them were being returned with sound issues. He said that Sony was almost ignoring the issue trying to avoid a recall.
Another feature missing was a zero 5.1 set up and only 1 HDMI on the rear JACKPACK. One terminal for HDMI is insane in design but Sony does add two more HDMI inputs on the side of the TV for camera or camcorder connections. You could use those if you didn’t mind the wires.
Avoid this Sony.