Sony Bravia 7 II Review: Is True RGB Worth the Hype?

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Sony Bravia 7 II Review: Is True RGB Worth the Hype?

The Sony Bravia 7 II brings True RGB Mini LED tech to a more affordable price. We test its picture quality, smart features, and more to see if it's worth your money.

### Key Features - **Price:** $1,499 (55-inch model) - **Google TV:** All your favorite apps, plus UK catch-up versions - **True RGB:** Sony's version of 'proper' RGB backlighting - **My Cinema:** Customize the TV's performance based on what you watch ### Introduction The Sony Bravia 7 II is the more affordable of Sony's two new True RGB Mini LED TVs, and it's generating serious buzz. Sony has been hyping this technology as the next big thing, promising better contrast, more accurate colors, and finer control over blooming. The concept is simple: most Mini LED TVs use a white backlight with a quantum dot filter. Sony's True RGB uses separate red, green, and blue LEDs that can be controlled independently. Sounds easy, right? Not so much. So, does it actually deliver? Can it convince OLED fans to switch to something brighter? Let's find out. ### Price The 55-inch Sony Bravia 7 II (K-55XR75M2) launched at $2,099 but has already dropped to $1,499. That's a significant price cut, suggesting Sony realized the original tag was a bit steep. The TV is also available in 50, 65, 75, 85, and 98 inches, with the largest model hitting $6,999. At $1,499, the 55-incher sits in an interesting spot. It's pricier than the well-regarded LG C6 OLED ($1,599) but cheaper than Sony's own Bravia 8 II 55-inch QD-OLED ($1,899). Sony used to position True RGB as its premium option above OLED, but now the lines are blurred. If you're confused, you're not alone. ### Design Let's be blunt: for a 55-inch TV, the Bravia 7 II is a hefty beast. It weighs 40.6 pounds and the chassis is... well, substantial. The Mirage Stand adds a bit of flair, but this isn't a TV you'll want to move around often. > "Much like Spandau Ballet, I know this much is true." But design is just the beginning. The real question is whether True RGB lives up to the hype. We'll dive into picture quality, smart features, and more in the full review. ### Performance Sony's True RGB backlight aims to improve color accuracy and contrast while reducing blooming—that annoying halo effect around bright objects on dark backgrounds. In practice, it works impressively well. Colors are vibrant and nuanced, and black levels are deep for an LED TV. However, it's not perfect. Off-axis viewing angles are mediocre, and the TV struggles with uniformity in dark scenes. But for most viewers, these are minor quibbles. ### Smart Features Google TV is on board, offering a familiar interface with all the major streaming apps. The included remote is intuitive, and the setup process is a breeze. My Cinema mode is a nice touch, automatically adjusting settings based on content type. ### Verdict The Sony Bravia 7 II is a strong contender in the mid-range TV market. It delivers impressive picture quality and smart features at a competitive price. While it may not convert die-hard OLED fans, it's a compelling option for anyone seeking a bright, colorful LED TV. **Pros:** - Excellent color accuracy - Bright and vibrant picture - Google TV with comprehensive app support **Cons:** - Mediocre off-axis viewing angles - Some uniformity issues - Heavy and bulky design If you're in the market for a new TV, the Bravia 7 II deserves a spot on your shortlist.