Loewe Iconic Syno-Stone 4k OLED hands-on preview

Loewe hopes to re-establish itself at the premium end of the TV market with the launch of the new flagship ‘Iconic’ 4k OLED flatscreen. The set adopts a lean back stance, and unusually utilises Syno-Stone instead of plastic or metal for the surround.

It’s the first time this material has been used for a consumer electronics product; this faux concrete ceramic would more commonly be seen on bathroom furniture.

Loewe previewed the Iconic at a London preview event, offering Inside CI an opportunity to take a closer look. In terms of design, it’s comparable to LG’s 65Art90, from that brand’s Objet collection.

The choice of Syno-Stone adds an unusual concrete aesthetic to the display, which is smooth to the touch. The 4k set will be available in a Graphite Grey or Clay White finish. Syno-Stone has been developed by Anders, a material and carpentry specialist based near the Loewe manufacturing facility in Kronach, Germany

Beneath the screen, behind a fabric facade, is a shelf which accommodates a Loewe Klang soundbar. Compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, the total power output for this 3.1.2 sound system is 360W. Additional Klang speakers, including wireless subwoofer, can be added to create a 5.1 cinema system.

The Iconic OLED is compatible with DTS Play-Fi, meaning it can be integrated into a Play-Fi multiroom audio system. Music clips used to demo the TV confirmed it is more than capable of delivering an immersive audio experience. The Iconic set can also be used as a Bluetooth speaker, when paired with a smartphone.

Much like the TV itself, spec details for the panel were thin on the ground at the event, but subjectively the screen presented eye-catching images with deep blacks, rich, vibrant hues and bright, impactful highlights.

The panel itself is the latest OLED EX design but it’s unclear if a physical heat sink is being used to boost peak HDR brightness. HDR support covers Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG.

Smart functionality comes via the latest iteration of the Hisense Vidaa platform.

Our verdict? We think this is the most impressive high-end TV to wear the Loewe badge yet. It firmly resestblishes the brand at the forefront of premium TV design.

The Loewe Iconic will be released in 55- and 65-inch screen sizes, priced at £6,499 and £7,999 respectively.