Summary
The Samsung PS64F8500‛s new ‛Magnum’ look may sound a bit Zoolander but we really like it and think the combination of design and function works perfectly. However we can understand why some people may not appreciate how much space will be required to position the display, the fact it can’t be swiveled or where exactly they are going to put their soundbar. However there’s no denying that the all-metal chassis and solid construction is appropriate for a flagship model, as is the inclusion of two remote controls, an IR blaster and two pairs of 3D glasses.
The PS64F8500 uses Samsung's usual menu system, which is clear, concise and easy to navigate. The included calibration controls are excellent as always and the PS64F8500 is capable of a reference performance in terms of both greyscale and colour gamut. The video processing is equally as impressive and the PS64F8500 passed all the usual tests with flying colours. Samsung has included quad-core processing along with the latest version of their reference status Smart Hub platform and whilst the motion and voice controls still have a way to go, we found the built-in camera very useful for making Skype video calls. The rest of the smart platform is absolutely superb, with a bewildering array of apps, including a highly effective remote app.
The 2D picture performance was absolutely superb, with the PS64F8500 producing wonderfully clean and accurate images. Thanks to the excellent video processing, standard definition held up well on the larger screen size, whilst high definition material oozed with detail. Whilst the black levels aren't as good as some of the competition, they were still an improvement on last year and the Super Contrast Panel certainly delivered the goods in terms of brightness. The overall contrast ratio and dynamic range were also excellent, as was shadow detail and the ambient light filter performed its task admirably during the day. The off-axis performance was superb and the motion handling and screen uniformity were equally as good. The PS64F8500's 3D performance was just as accomplished with incredibly bright, accurate and detailed images that were completely free of crosstalk. The sense of depth and the immersive nature of the larger screen size are sure to please fans of 3D.
Whilst perhaps not the all-conquering heavyweight that some had expected, there’s a lot to really like about Samsung’s new PS64F8500. It incorporates a striking design with a cutting edge Smart TV platform and the kind of big and bright images that we never thought possible from a plasma. If you’re looking for some of the best 2D and especially 3D pictures around, then you should definitely check out the PS64F8500.
