Denon AVR‑X2900H and Denon AVC‑X3900H hands-on

Inside CI travelled to Shirakawa ahead of the launch to hear the receivers in Denon’s reference listening room, where both models were demonstrated using a full Bowers & Wilkins 801 surround speaker system (unlikely to be duplicated in the real world, but a stunning confirmation that these single box units can drive extremely high-end loudspeakers). The results were deeply impressive.

The AVR-X2900H immediately distinguished itself with composure and scale beyond what its price point might suggest, while the AVC-X3900H delivered a level of control and dynamic expression that bordered on startling. We ran through a selection of movie clips, climaxing with Dune Part One. Dialogue placement was pin-sharp, bass management felt impeccably disciplined, and large-scale cinematic passages carried immense energy without losing finesse. In terms of balancing power against price, these receivers set a new benchmark.

The AVR-X2900H is configured as a seven channel (5.1.2) design delivering 95 watts per channel, aimed at enthusiasts stepping beyond entry-level AV performance. Support for immersive audio formats, modern HDMI gaming features and optional Dirac Live room correction positions it as a substantial upgrade for users building more serious cinema systems.

Audyssey calibration remains included as standard, while HEOS multiroom support allows the receiver to integrate into wider distributed audio environments.

The AVC-X3900H moves considerably further into premium territory. Offering nine (5.1.4) channels of onboard amplification (with 11.4-channel processing for larger theatres) at 105 watts per channel, it’s designed to anchor larger dedicated cinema rooms and professionally installed systems. Four independent subwoofer outputs provide greater scope for bass optimisation, while optional support for Dirac Live Bass Control and Active Room Treatment gives integrators access to more advanced acoustic correction tools.

Denon’s dual-calibration strategy remains one of the more pragmatic approaches in the market. Users can rely on Audyssey for straightforward setup or move towards Dirac Live for more granular system shaping as installations become increasingly complex. That flexibility is likely to appeal to CI pros working across a broad range of room sizes and client expectations.

Connectivity and control have also been expanded. Both receivers support HEOS streaming, Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth and services including Spotify, Qobuz and TuneIn Internet Radio. Advanced HDMI diagnostics, IP-based web configuration and broad control integration options further underline the company’s focus on custom installation applications.

Gaming support hasn’t been overlooked either. Expanded HDMI connectivity, 1440p pass-through and AMD FreeSync compatibility aim to ensure the receivers remain viable as gaming displays and source hardware continue to evolve.

Denon is also preparing a future firmware update that will allow compatible Denon Home 200, Denon Home 400 and Denon Home 600 models to operate as wireless rear surrounds, offering a more flexible route to immersive audio in rooms where speaker cabling may be impractical.
The AVR-X2900H is priced at £899, while the AVC-X3900H will retail for £1299. Both models are scheduled to become available globally from May 14 through authorised Denon retailers and the company’s online store.

"But before arriving in Mumbai for the recent Smart Home Expo, I’ll be honest, I had preconceived ideas about what I was going to experience - and I couldn’t have been more wrong.

From the moment I arrived, I was genuinely impressed.

The quality of the stand builds, the professionalism of the presentations, and the overall atmosphere throughout the exhibition were exceptional. Even the convention centre itself felt more like a luxury hotel than somewhere hosting a technology exhibition.

But what stayed with me most wasn’t actually the event itself. It was the people.

Over the course of the trip, I spent time with integrators, manufacturers and industry professionals from across India, and almost every conversation left me feeling increasingly optimistic about where this market is heading.

There was a genuine willingness to learn. A hunger to improve. An openness to new ideas. And a genuine desire to ask questions about how they could continue to develop both themselves and their businesses.

That stood out to me.

Sometimes in more mature markets, people can become slightly fixed in how they operate. Comfortable with existing ways of doing business. India felt very different.

The people I met were incredibly welcoming, collaborative and refreshingly open-minded. There was far less ego than I expected and far more curiosity.

That combination is powerful.

Many of the people I spoke to were already using, or at least aware of, The Cinema Designer and the excitement around some of the improvements and developments currently being worked on was clear to see.

The conversations were no longer just about products.

They were about design. Engineering. Workflow. Standards.Education.And delivering better overall experiences for clients.

For me, that says a lot about where the Indian market is heading.

I also spent quite a bit of time discussing the DirectlyAV platform and explaining how we’re looking to work closely with a select group of India’s finest companies, whilst introducing carefully selected premium brands directly into the region.

Again, the enthusiasm genuinely surprised me.

Many integrators openly expressed a desire for access to innovative products without unnecessary layers where that support structure simply isn’t needed. They want the ability to buy certain products directly at the very best pricing, allowing them to remain competitive whilst still delivering excellent value and service to their customers.

Importantly, though, these conversations didn’t feel driven by price alone.

What I sensed was a market looking for better ways of working: Closer relationships with manufacturers. Better access to innovation.
Better education. And higher standards overall.

That’s very different.

One of the biggest things I took away from Mumbai was the feeling that India isn’t simply growing, it’s evolving. And it’s evolving quickly.

What also stayed with me was how many people have continued to stay in touch since I returned home. The conversations didn’t end after the exhibition halls closed. In many ways, they’ve only just started.

There’s clear excitement around collaboration and around what the future could look like.

I should also mention the support from Wendy Griffiths and Sanket Sawant from CEDIA throughout the trip. It was obvious how much work is being done behind the scenes to support both integrators and brands seeking to grow responsibly in India.

That support network matters enormously as the market continues to mature. Personally, I left Mumbai convinced that India will become a major force within the premium AV industry over the coming years.

Not just because of the scale of the opportunity, but because of the mindset of the people driving it forward.

The willingness to learn.

The openness to collaboration.

The desire to improve.

And the enthusiasm to embrace new ideas whilst continuing to raise standards.

For The Cinema Designer, for the brands we’ll soon be introducing into the region and for the wider industry as a whole, I genuinely believe this is only the beginning.

And personally, I can’t wait to return."

The trip itself was invaluable. Through the support of our partners on the ground, we were able to spend meaningful time with integrators, distributors, and manufacturers, gaining a much clearer understanding of how the Indian market operates in practice, rather than from a distance. That perspective alone made the visit worthwhile 

What’s immediately apparent is that the appetite is already there. There is a genuine enthusiasm for home cinema, for technology, and for well-considered spaces. There is also a strong appreciation for international design, particularly from the UK, which naturally positions Cinema Luxe within the upper end of the market. 

At the same time, the sector is still developing. In many respects, it sits some way behind more established markets in how cinema spaces are conceived and delivered as complete environments. Technology is often world-class, but the design and execution of the room itself doesn’t always keep pace. That gap presents a clear opportunity, not just for us, but for the industry more broadly. 

One of the more interesting observations was the structure of the market itself. In contrast to the UK, where integrators typically lead from end to end, the role of the distributor in India is more influential. They are often central to how projects are shaped, how products are specified, and how relationships are formed. There are, of course, a number of excellent integrators operating at a high level, but it’s clear that understanding and engaging with the distribution layer is essential.

Alongside the opportunity, there are also very real challenges. India is vast, and the practicalities of delivering highly detailed, design-led environments are not insignificant. Logistics, infrastructure, consistency of build, and coordination across multiple parties all come into play in a way that feels very different to the UK. For a company like ours, where finish and detailing are fundamental, that presents a responsibility as much as it does a challenge.

Our initial thinking is to approach delivery in a measured way, combining local capability for early-stage construction with Cinema Luxe involvement at the critical final stages of installation, detailing, and finish. That balance feels like the right way to maintain quality, while working practically within the realities of the market.

Equally, we’re giving careful thought to how we enter the market from a service perspective. Leading with design and consultancy feels like a natural starting point. It allows us to bring immediate value, to establish design intent early, and to properly assess each project from both a logistical and commercial standpoint before committing further. It’s a controlled way of building something sustainable.

There is, understandably, some hesitation around price positioning when entering a market like India. Our view is that the opportunity sits firmly at the top end. The level of wealth at the highest percentile is significant, and there is a clear desire for quality, for distinction, and for experiences that feel genuinely world-class. In that context, we see Cinema Luxe not simply as a service, but as something that represents a certain standard, a mark of intent as much as anything else.

Of course, there are considerations around protecting design, maintaining control, and ensuring that what is delivered reflects what is intended. These are not unique challenges, but they do require a structured and thoughtful approach, particularly in a market that is still evolving. Ultimately, it comes down to working with the right people, setting clear expectations, and building trust over time.

What stood out most from the trip, however, was the openness of the people we met. The conversations were honest, generous, and consistently forward-looking. There is a real willingness within the industry to improve, to collaborate, and to raise standards, which gives us confidence in what can be achieved.

We’re particularly grateful to Kyle and Sohan Perera, who will represent Cinema Luxe in India and play a central role in building our presence locally. Their understanding of the market and alignment with our approach gives us real confidence in the journey ahead. Our thanks also go to Mike Beatty of Directly AV, whose insight and support throughout the trip were invaluable, and to Nick Fichte at L-Acoustics, whose ongoing collaboration continues to form an important part of our wider network. It was also a pleasure to reconnect with Kim Donvig of Artcoustic and to see the continued growth of the brand within the region.

We would also like to thank the team at CEDIA, particularly Sanket and Wendy, for their enthusiasm, openness, and support. Their role in bringing people together and facilitating meaningful conversations should not be underestimated.

More broadly, we’re grateful to the many integrators and distributors who took the time to meet with us. The level of engagement and willingness to share insight has been instrumental in shaping how we move forward.

Cinema Luxe is entering India with a long-term mindset. This is not about rapid expansion, but about building something considered and consistent, working with the right partners, applying our experience carefully, and maintaining the standards that define our work.

We’re excited by what lies ahead, and confident that, with the right approach, we can play a meaningful role in shaping the future of private cinema design in India."

SQD-MiniLED combines a quantum dot film with TCL’s new Ultra Color Filter, which the brand says expands colour gamut coverage by 33 per cent. Built around TCL CSOT’s WHVA 2.0 panel, the technology is claimed to achieve full BT.2020 colour coverage, while also improving black level precision through dense full-array local dimming.

For integrators and AV professionals, the practical benefits are easier to map: reduced colour crosstalk, improved halo suppression on difficult high-contrast material, and cleaner motion handling for sport and cinema applications. TCL attributes this to its proprietary light and shadow control algorithm, combined with processing from its TSR AiPQ chipset.

RGB-MiniLED remains important to the range, particularly in larger, more price-sensitive premium installations, but TCL indicated that model positioning is determined primarily by dimming zone count rather than the underlying panel type. It’s a pragmatic approach that could make specification conversations simpler when navigating multiple premium tiers.

The flagship X11L was the headline model in Paris and arguably the screen that drew the most attention. Available in 75-inch, 85-inch and 98-inch sizes, it uses TCL’s SQD-MiniLED architecture with up to 20,736 local dimming zones on the 98-inch model. Peak brightness reaches 10,000 nits, while the 75-inch and 85-inch variants offer 11,520 and 14,400 zones respectively, with peak luminance of 9,000 and 10,000 nits.

In person, the screen impressed with exceptional colour depth and notably disciplined black-level control, especially on demanding HDR demo material. The near-zero bezel design, with no visible black matrix around the image, further strengthens its appeal for premium media-room installations.

Audio is supplied by Bang & Olufsen, and the set supports Dolby Atmos FlexConnect. It can also integrate with TCL’s Z100 FlexConnect speaker system and optional subwoofer for expanded room audio.

The C8L broadens TCL’s SQD proposition into more mainstream premium territory. It launches in 55-inch, 65-inch, 75-inch, 85-inch and 98-inch sizes, delivering 4,032 dimming zones and a quoted 6,000 nits peak brightness. Like the X11L, it also features Bang & Olufsen audio.

For installers, this model looks likely to be a strong fit where flagship-level performance is desired without moving into ultra-high-zone counts.

Also shown in Paris was the C7L, available in the same 55-inch to 98-inch spread. This series uses 2,176 dimming zones and reaches 3,000 nits peak brightness, positioning it as a more accessible SQD-MiniLED solution for larger-screen family rooms and dedicated entertainment spaces.

Flying the RGB-MiniLED flag are the RM9L and RM7L. The RM9L will be available in 85-inch, 98-inch and 115-inch sizes, while the RM7L covers 65-inch, 75-inch, 85-inch and 98-inch.

Although TCL places these beneath its SQD tiers due to lower dimming zone counts, they remain strategically important for cost-conscious large-format projects.

Early demos of the panel looked highly impressive.

Support for Dolby Vision 2 Max brings with it AI-driven content intelligence, including Precision Black, Light Sense and an Authentic Motion mode designed to maintain cinematic intent without visible artefacts. Audio is delivered via an integrated 70W 2.2-channel system with redesigned bass drivers, allowing for a slimmer overall chassis without sacrificing output. For installers, connectivity is comprehensive, with four HDMI 2.1 inputs supporting 165Hz gaming, alongside a configurable game bar with profile auto-detection.

The OLED+951 also marks a continued shift in platform strategy. Philips is standardising on its Titan OS smart TV platform, moving away from Google TV. The system provides access to major streaming services including Netflix, Disney+, Prime Video and YouTube, and in the UK will integrate the Freely platform. Pricing and final availability are yet to be confirmed.

Sitting just below, the OLED+911 shares much of the same video architecture, including the META 4.0 WOLED panel, 10th Gen P5 AI processing and Dolby Vision 2 Max compatibility. The key differentiator is its integrated audio system, developed in partnership with Bowers & Wilkins. This 3.1-channel frontal array features dedicated left, centre and right channels, with glass-fibre midrange drivers and Nautilus tube-loaded tweeters, supported by a rear-mounted subwoofer with passive radiators. Total system output is rated at 81W. Available in 48, 55, 65 and 77-inch screen sizes, it presents a viable alternative for projects where a separate soundbar or AV system isn’t specified but a higher standard of audio is still required.

Inside CI had an exclsuive demo of this new sound system, and for a compact unit it produces a very wide, dynamic soundstage. Expect the set to land this June.

Further down the range, the OLED811 continues to serve as a strong media room option. It employs OLED EX panel technology, delivering peak brightness of up to 2500 nits on larger screen sizes, which range from 42 to 77 inches. The set combines 10th Gen P5 AI processing with Dolby Vision 2 Max support, while also catering to gaming use cases with a 165Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ gaming and compatibility with both FreeSync Premium and G-Sync. Audio is provided by a 70W 2.2-channel system (50W on the 42-inch variant), maintaining consistency with the upper-tier models.

At a more accessible level, the OLED761 uses an OLED SE panel with peak brightness around 1000 nits, paired with 7th Gen P5 AI processing. Screen sizes span 55, 65 and 77 inches. The set retains three-sided Ambilight with AmbiScape integration and supports HDR10+ gaming, FreeSync Premium and G-Sync, positioning it as a credible entry point into OLED for a broader customer base.
OLED wasn’t the only display technology highlighted. Philips also previewed its first RGB Mini LED model, the MLED981, part of its Xtra series. This 85-inch display uses an RGB Mini LED backlight with 11,520 zones, offering peak brightness of around 2500 nits and a wide colour gamut of 97% DCI.

The panel supports refresh rates up to 165Hz, with a 330Hz DLG mode available at reduced vertical resolution. Processing again comes from the 10th Gen P5 AI engine, with Dolby Vision 2 Max ensuring alignment with the OLED range. A 70W 4.1-channel sound system and Ambilight with AmbiScape complete the specification, making it a practical option for brighter viewing environments where OLED may not be the preferred choice.

Rounding out the portfolio is the PQS9001 QLED Ambilight series, continuing the ‘The One’ positioning. Based on a wide colour gamut LCD QD panel with a 144Hz refresh rate, it combines Dolby Vision 2 support with 7th Gen P5 processing across a broad size range from 43 to 100 inches. Audio output scales with screen size, from 20W 2.0 systems on smaller models to 50W 2.1 on the largest.

Having seen the full line-up in person, the consistency of approach stands out. OLED remains central to the premium proposition, with measurable gains in brightness and processing, while RGB Mini LED offers a complementary path for high-luminance applications. For installers, the breadth of screen sizes and integrated audio options provides flexibility across different project types.

If there’s a sleeper hit in the range, it’s likely to be the 100-inch variant of The One. In an environment where large-screen demand continues to grow, it combines scale, accessible pricing and a straightforward feature set that should resonate with integrators and end users looking to make a statement without stepping into flagship territory.

Demand for everyday products, such as Bluetooth speakers and entry-level headphones, is slowing down, while premium home audio and higher-performance Head-Fi is gaining traction. This is good news for custom installers.

Futuresource’s latest global audio report estimates that the overall consumer audio market grew by around 7 per cent last year, maintaining a value comfortably above $120 billion. But that’s not the whole story.

Mainstream categories have cooled following the surge seen during the pandemic years, suggests Futuresource. Demand for everyday wireless speakers and mass-market headphones is softening as replacement cycles lengthen and product innovation becomes more incremental.

But within the broader market, several segments are performing more strongly than others. Hearing health devices - including advanced hearing aids and related technologies - posted the strongest growth, rising 10 per cent year-on-year to reach $41 billion. Much of that expansion is being driven by premiumisation, alongside the integration of AI-driven sound processing and increasingly sophisticated noise filtration technologies.

Gaming audio also continues to expand, growing by 8 per cent, although it remains comparatively small at around $3 billion globally.

More traditional consumer categories are moving at a steadier pace. Headphones remain the largest segment at $55 billion, though growth was limited to 4 per cent, while home audio slipped slightly, declining 1 per cent to $23 billion.

The bottom line? Widely used product categories are no longer generating the same upgrade momentum that once sustained volume growth.

A clearer picture emerges when the market is examined through the lens of price bands. Devices priced above $200 represent a significantly different mix of products and purchasing behaviour.

Within this bracket, the combined home audio and headphone market stands at roughly $40 billion. Home audio’s share increases markedly, approaching 40 per cent of total value, while product demand shifts toward soundbars, Wi-Fi speakers and traditional loudspeakers.

Headphones still represent the largest share when it comes to demand, but the balance within that category also evolves. Over-ear models with advanced active noise cancellation and enhanced comfort become more prominent as consumers look for longer-term listening solutions.

At the more premium end, and we’re talking about devices priced above $500 here, the landscape shifts again. The market contracts to around $8 billion in value, yet home audio accounts for the lion’s share of spending, almost 90 per cent.

Premium soundbars and loudspeakers dominate, with a growing number of models occupying the $500 to $1,000 range and beyond.

For loudspeakers in particular, the bulk of the market already sits above the $500 threshold, suggesting that buyers with a strong interest in home listening remain willing to invest heavily in performance.

By comparison, headphones above $500 largely consist of specialist over-ear designs and a small niche of professional or enthusiast in-ear monitors.

Taken together, the data highlights a clear pattern: while headphones dominate entry-level and mid-market categories, home audio leads the way as spending moves into premium territory.

One of the more notable shifts identified by Futuresource is the changing profile of the premium audio buyer.

Historically, higher-end audio has been primarily the domain of enthusiasts focused on separate components, wired systems and specialist retail channels. Today, the market is increasingly shaped by digitally native consumers who expect both performance and convenience.

Futuresource’s Audio Tech Lifestyles research shows that sound quality remains the leading purchase driver. However, ease of use and seamless connectivity are becoming almost as important.

In practical terms, this means that premium products that combine high-fidelity performance with wireless flexibility, intuitive controls and design-led aesthetics, are in demand. Soundbars, Wi-Fi speakers and premium headphones are expected to integrate easily into modern living spaces while delivering the performance associated with traditional Hi-Fi.

Technology also plays a growing role, particularly where it improves usability. Features such as adaptive equalisation, automatic room calibration and AI-driven noise optimisation are becoming more common, provided they operate largely behind the scenes and simplify the listening experience.

Many of the expectations shaping consumer audio products (design integration, ease of operation and discreet technology) mirror the priorities already present in residential AV design.

The broader message from Futuresource is that the consumer audio industry is entering a period where value creation is likely to matter more than raw volume growth.

With the mass market stabilising, brands are focusing on higher-margin segments that combine strong audio performance with lifestyle-friendly design and functionality. Premium soundbars, networked speakers and high-quality headphones are emerging as key battlegrounds.

For those working in the custom installation sector, this shift reinforces the ongoing relevance of home audio within integrated systems. As consumers show greater willingness to invest in high-quality sound at home, opportunities persist for professionally designed and installed solutions that extend well beyond the capabilities of standalone consumer products.

Long story short: The home audio market is aligning more closely with the strengths of the CI channel, and systems that deliver superior performance, while remaining easy to use and visually sympathetic to contemporary interiors, are hitting the right note.

That’s going to be music to the ears of many.

Prime Video will likely be the first major streaming platform to support HDR10+ Advanced.

Technology overview

HDR10+ has been a mainstay in the HDR landscape since its introduction in 2017, serving as the open, royalty-free alternative to Dolby Vision. Originally spearheaded by Samsung, in collaboration with Panasonic and 20th Century Fox, it uses dynamic metadata to adjust brightness and colour scene by scene, enabling compatible displays to optimise image performance within their hardware limits.
HDR10+ Advanced builds on this foundation, targeting the next generation of ultra-bright displays, specifically those capable of 4,000 to 5,000 nits peak brightness and supporting the full BT.2020 colour gamut.

Samsung says the extended metadata structure now allows displays to interpret more nuanced image data, helping tone mapping algorithms deliver highlights and midtones with greater precision.

With global demand for larger, brighter televisions continuing to climb, driven by UHD streaming, next-gen gaming, and immersive home entertainment, HDR10+ Advanced positions itself as the natural progression of HDR for the 2026 display market.

HDR10+ Advanced features and benefits

HDR10+ Bright mode is a flagship feature, leveraging AI-driven tone mapping to dynamically enhance brightness and colour reproduction in real time. It ensures visual consistency across a broader range of lighting conditions, from bright showroom environments to dimly lit home cinemas.

Genre-based optimisation (HDR10+ Advanced Genre) allows content creators to tag content by genre during encoding, whether drama, sports, or animation—so certified devices can automatically apply optimised tone mapping curves and picture processing suited to that style.
Intelligent Frame Rate Conversion (HDR10+ Intelligent FRC) provides more granular control over motion smoothing. It can dynamically signal the need for judder reduction and its intensity, depending on both content type and ambient light, allowing smoother transitions without artefacts.

HDR10+ Intelligent Gaming expands support for cloud gaming, enabling real-time tone mapping adjustments based on ambient lighting. This feature aims to improve visual consistency for streaming-based gameplay, a growing segment of the home entertainment market.
Additional refinements include local tone mapping, providing more precise control of brightness and shadow detail across specific screen zones, and advanced colour control, which gives content creators greater authority over how colour data is interpreted on HDR10+ Advanced displays.

Industry context

The arrival of HDR10+ Advanced reflects the ongoing demand for open, scalable HDR standards that can keep pace with hardware advances in the professional and consumer display sectors. With more streaming platforms supporting HDR delivery and average TV screen sizes increasing, maintaining image fidelity across a diverse hardware landscape is becoming increasingly important for content providers and system integrators alike.

Samsung’s HDR10+ ecosystem already spans over 16,000 device models, 500 supported movie titles, and more than 28,000 streaming videos. The rollout of HDR10+ Advanced will likely accelerate adoption among display makers, broadcasters, and OTT providers looking for a cost-efficient, forward-compatible HDR format.

The technology is expected to debut on high-end Samsung TVs in 2026, following its formal unveiling at CES 2026 in Las Vegas.

If the brand wanted to get my attention, it certainly succeeded.

A cool blend of restrained Japanese design, expertly tuned picture performance, and integrated Fire TV smarts defined the launch.

Panasonic’s strategy for 2025 is comprehensive, yet concise, with premium OLED models supported by Mini LED and commodity sets.

At the top end, we have the flagship Z95B OLED, first seen at CES this year, flanked by the high-performance Z90B and the accessible yet still capable Z80B. Each model brings its own balance of premium display tech, audio innovations, and smart features. For those favouring LED, there’s the new W Series (W95B, W93B, W85B), which aligns with the same ‘Panasonic TV Premium with Fire TV built in’ ecosystem.

What’s striking is not just the breadth of screen sizes, spanning from 42 inches to 77 inches, but the consistent focus on picture fidelity, immersive audio, and seamless user experience, regardless of where a model sits in the range.

Available in 55-, 65-, and, for the first time, a 77-inch configuration, the Z95B is Panasonic’s technological showcase. Built around the new Primary RGB Tandem Panel, the Z95B is able to boost brightness by up to 40 per cent over previous generations thanks to a novel four-layer emission structure that enhances both colour purity and light efficiency. The impact is immediately apparent: whites are punchier, colours richer, and HDR content has the kind of specular highlights once reserved for professional grading monitors.

To maintain this performance under pressure, Panasonic introduced a new ThermalFlow cooling system, borrowing from aerodynamic principles to manage heat more efficiently across the panel. This is not innovation for its own sake, it directly supports prolonged brightness peaks without compromising colour accuracy or panel lifespan. To demonstrate the design, the brand orchestrated a revelatory skit using inert visible vapour. It was sucked in at the base of the screen, and appeared out of a vent at the top, panel cooling therefore achieved.

Under the hood is the HCX Pro AI Processor MK II, refining image clarity with a new 4K Remaster Engine and improved streaming noise reduction. Dolby Vision IQ, Calman auto-calibration, and ISFccc support make this TV as much a tool for professionals as it is a luxury for enthusiasts.

Sound, too, receives serious attention. The newly re-engineered 360° Soundscape Pro system includes upward, side, and front-firing speakers, plus a larger 30W woofer, all tuned by Technics.

I had a demo of the sound system, and it was immediately apparent how much brighter and more spacious the new configuration is.

Space Tune and Sound Focus further tailor the soundstage to your room’s layout.

Smart features are anchored by Panasonic TV Premium with Fire TV built in, offering a single interface for streaming, live content, and apps, now enhanced with voice control, personalised recommendations, and Apple AirPlay/HomeKit support. Add in full HDMI 2.1 capabilities (on twoi of the four HDMI inputs), NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility, AMD FreeSync Premium, and a blistering 144Hz refresh rate, and the Z95B emerges as a premium OLED that’s equally suited to cinema and gaming.

If the Z95B is the reference monitor in the lineup, the Z90B is the all-rounder. Available in a wide range of sizes, 42-, 48-, 55-, 65-, and 77-, it covers nearly every living space and use case. While it omits the Tandem Panel and ThermalFlow system, it features Panasonic’s Master OLED Pro panel, the same HCX Pro AI MK II processor, and most of the same software enhancements.

The Z90B’s sound system, Dynamic Theater Surround Pro, is bolstered by a 30W subwoofer and Dolby Atmos support.

Gamers are well-catered for here, too. Game Mode Extreme, 144Hz VRR, AMD FreeSync Premium, and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility come as standard, along with Dolby Vision Gaming support. There’s also the same personalised smart interface via Fire TV and Apple ecosystem integration; in essence, you’re not sacrificing much stepping down from the Z95B.

Aimed at those wanting a quality OLED experience without the bells and whistles, the Z80B aims to strike a fine balance between affordability and core performance. Available in 48-, 55-, and 65-inches, it drops the advanced cooling and AI processing of its stablemates but still leverages the HCX Processor and Panasonic’s cinematic picture tuning.

While the Z80B lacks the 144Hz refresh of the flagship models, it still supports Game Mode Extreme, HDMI 2.1, VRR up to 120Hz, and AMD FreeSync Premium. It’s no slouch for gamers or movie buffs alike.

Panasonic LED TV range 2025

Although OLED took centre stage in Wiesbaden, Panasonic also introduced a refreshed line of LED TVs, the W95B, W93B, and W85B, aimed at households where brightness, affordability, or size flexibility are key. These sets also have Panasonic's version of Fire TV built-in and showcase the same design-forward ethos as their OLED cousins, with minimalist styling, seamless smart integration, and compatibility with smart homes.

While they don’t match OLED for contrast or shadow detail, the W Series sets benefit from Panasonic’s long-standing mastery of video processing, solid audio systems, and a feature set that feels impressively comprehensive for LED-based TVs.

For AV professionals and installers, there’s a lot to appreciate: broad sizing, premium design, calibration support, and a consistent OS across the line. 

This year’s LED line-up consists of three main families: the flagship W95B Mini LED, the high-performance W93B, and the versatile W85B, all of which run on Panasonic TV Premium with Fire TV built in. Together, they cover screen sizes from a compact 43- to a cinematic 85-inches, designed to fit everything from a family lounge to a custom AV installation.

The W95B is the LED flagship. Available in 55-, 65-, 75-, and for the first time, 85-inches, this Mini LED model boasts over 2.5 times more local dimming zones than last year’s equivalent, thanks to an independently driven LED array paired with Panasonic’s refined Double Area Control and High Colour Gamut Backlight System. These technologies work together to maintain colour stability, shadow detail, and luminance precision, even during tricky HDR scenes where other LED sets might falter.

The addition of Hybrid Tone Mapping is another step forward. It promises to solve a longstanding issue with LED HDR performance: colour washout in bright highlights.

Powered by the HCX Pro AI Processor MK II and equipped with Prime Video Calibrated Mode, the W95B also supports Dolby Vision IQ, adapting its output in real time based on ambient light and content metadata. The result is a TV that feels constantly in tune with its environment, cinematic in the dark, punchy during the day.

On the audio front, Dynamic Theatre Surround Sound includes a 20W subwoofer built into the chassis, so there should be some genuine low-end thump to enhance explosions, engines, and orchestras alike.

Gamers get Game Mode Extreme, HDMI 2.1, AMD FreeSync Premium, and 144Hz refresh rate, with ultra-low input lag and True Game Mode. A Game Control Board UI allows players to adjust game settings on the fly without breaking immersion.

The set also offers Calman Ready certification, allowing AV professionals to perform deep calibration if required.

Next in line is the W93B, which brings many of the W95B’s headline features to a broader range of screen sizes: 43-, 50-, 55-, and 65-inches. It drops Mini LED in favour of a more traditional LED array but retains the HDR Bright Panel Pro, which enables solid brightness and consistent contrast thanks to improved backlight control and a wide colour gamut.

Crucially, the W93B shares the same HCX Pro AI Processor MK II and Fire TV Premium platform as its flagship sibling, ensuring that core image quality, particularly with streamed content, remains impressive.

Last but not least, the entry level W85B may actually prove to be the sweet spot for many CI projects. Available in a wide array of sizes, it now includes a 120Hz panel, a notable upgrade over previous models, and is powered by the HCX Processor (albeit not the MK II).

Gaming specs include Game Mode Extreme, HDMI 2.1, HFR/VRR up to 120Hz, and AMD FreeSync Premium support.

Prices for all are expected to be announced closer to the July 2025 retail launch.

The brand’s incoming C-Series is structured around three core ranges, the C6K, C7K, and C8K, each catering to different levels of performance and budget while maintaining the core advantages of its 7th-gen QD-Mini LED technology.

TCL’s 7th-generation QD-Mini LED tech boasts higher brightness, colour accuracy, and contrast compared to previous iterations. Condensed Micro Lens Technology further refines this experience by increasing light uniformity while reducing power consumption.
Key advancements include a Halo Control System to minimise blooming around bright objects; an AiPQ Processor for AI-driven real-time optimisation of contrast, clarity, and motion, and Dynamic Scene Recognition, which automatically adjusts picture settings based on content type for superior realism.

With screen sizes spanning 50 inches to 115 inches, this collection ensures there’s a model for every living space, from media rooms to high-end home theaters. Inside CI travelled to Pairs for an early look at the new models, all of which impressed in terms of specification, price and performance.

Both the C7K and C8K models feature zero-border picture technology and have advanced Bang & Olufsen sound systems built-in - and the sheer impact of the 85-inch plus sized models is undeniable.

TCL C-Series in depth: Features, sizes and prices

The C6K series serves as the most accessible entry into Mini LED technology, designed for families upgrading from conventional LED TVs. Offering up to 512 dimming zones, it significantly improves backlight control, delivering deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and more precise lighting. The 144Hz Motion Clarity Pro refresh rate ensures smooth visuals for high-speed sports, films, and gaming, while Game Master Pro with FreeSync Premium Pro guarantees low-latency, stutter-free gaming.

TCL pairs this advanced display tech with an Onkyo 2.1 sound system with Dolby Atmos on models 55-inches and above. Dolby Vision IQ and HDR10+ support ensures the TV dynamically adjusts brightness and contrast based on ambient lighting conditions for an optimized viewing experience. Google TV integration rounds out the feature set.

The C7K 55-, 65-, 75-, 85- and 98-inch models are priced at £799, £999, £1,499, £1,899 and £3,199 respectively.

For those looking for a step up in performance, the C7K series, which spans models from 50- to 115inches, offers increased brightness, contrast control, and a CrystGlow HVA Panel for enhanced image depth and reduced reflections. This line offers up to 2048 dimming zones and has a 144Hz native refresh. TCL rates HDR performance as HDR Premium 3000. On the audio front, TCL has collaborated with Bang & Olufsen to provide an enhanced cinematic sound experience across the 50” to 115” models.

The C7K 50-, 55-, 65-, 75-, 85-, 98- and 115-inch models are priced at £799, £999, £1,399, £1,799, £2,199, £4,299 and £12,999 respectively.

Topping the TCL lineup is its C8K series. This high-brightness powerhouse features up to 4000 dimming zones, delivering pronounced black depth and HDR precision. A CrystGlow WHVA Panel further refines contrast while reducing reflections.

For hardcore gamers, the C8K integrates Game Accelerator 288Hz, pushing refresh rates to competitive levels for ultra-responsive gameplay. Bang & Olufsen audio remains a standard across the range.

The C8K 65-, 75-, 85- and 98-inch models are priced at £1,599, £1,999, £2,799, and £4,799 respectively.

A longstanding advocate of connected technology - it first declared that its entire product portfolio would be a connected device within the decade back in 2014 - the brand demonstrated how artificial intelligence would continue to revolutionise everyday living, creating multiple intuitive experiences for users.

Inside CI was first through the doors, and took a particular interest in developments surrounding AV technologies.

HDR TVs shine as QD tensions rise

For 19 consecutive years, Samsung has led the global TV market, and its 2025 lineup underscores its commitment to pushing the boundaries of display and audio technology. This brand is not resting on its laurels. The latest Neo QLED, OLED, and QLED models, including the newly announced The Frame Pro, feature a cutting-edge AI Picture Optimizer, which enhances every frame in real time, adjusting brightness, contrast, and colour using deep learning. Screens are brighter too. The incoming S95F OLED has an astonishing HDR performance. I spent some time with the screen, and was wowed at just how dynamic it can look.

Quantum Dot technology was invariably a big talking point at the event, as Samsung stressed that unlike certain competitors, it was offering consumers a fully realised QD TV range, which it pointedly dubbed Real Quantum Dot.

During a technical seminar, Samsung engineers compared a disassembled Samsung QLED screen, with multiple filters, to a competitor that offered only one.

The demonstration was indicative of a brewing spat that follows the filing of class-action lawsuits in the US, which claim that Hisense and TCL have been advertising QLED TVs which lack a sufficient amount of QD material to effectively improve performance, effectively misleading consumers.

QLED TVs have become a significant sector within the global TV market, but its premium position could be undermined by products that do not offer its expected benefits, warns Samsung.

Samsung’s 2025 Colour Booster Pro feature is powered by Quantum Dot technology; the expanded colour volume of QD is integral when it comes to creating ultra-realistic visuals. By utilising indium-based Quantum Dots, Samsung says it can offer vibrant, true-to-life colour accuracy that rivals, which don’t use the expensive material, can’t match.

The allure of highly vibrant artwork in Samsung’s Art Store, which now offers over 3,000 digital artworks from 70 renowned museums and institutions, was impressive evidence that Quantum Dot technology, when correctly applied, can really enhance the aesthetic appeal of next generation displays.

Q-Symphony in the Music Frame

On the audio front, Samsung used the event to stress its dominance in the soundbar market. With Q-Symphony, users can seamlessly connect up to three devices to their TV for an immersive, cinema-style sound experience.

The value of this improvement was shown when a Q-Symphony soundbar and Neo-QLED screen were partnered with a pair of Music Frame speakers (acting as rear channel devices) in a lifestyle inspired home theatre. It also demonstrated a compact subwoofer, which adds low end grunt but doesn't overwhelm living room decor.

Ensuring long-term usability, Samsung also committed to seven years of One UI Tizen smart TV platform updates, underwritten by Samsung Knox Matrix security, providing a future-proof entertainment ecosystem. We'll make sure your smart TV stays relevant, says the brand.

Gaming was also on the agenda. A new AI Auto Game Mode optimises visuals and response times for competitive play, while the Samsung Gaming Hub simplifies access to leading cloud gaming services.

Smartthings finds energy

Beyond entertainment, Samsung continues to build on its connected mantra with bespoke AI appliances and the all-encompassing SmartThings ecosystem.

An AI Energy Mode can now intelligently optimise power consumption by automating appliance usage, for example, charging Samsung's Jet Bot AI vacuum during off-peak hours, or adjusting washing machine settings to cooler temperatures for smaller loads. The benefit to smart home users is reduced electricity costs, which can be monitored through a Smartthings dashboard.

Samsung also used its event to showcase the new Galaxy S25 smartphone series. The line boasts a raft of AI-driven enhancements, including Live Translate for real-time call translations, Generative Edit for AI-assisted photo editing, and Drawing Assist for intuitive creative enhancements.

The Galaxy Book5 series also made its debut in Frankfurt, offering AI-enhanced computing with tools like AI Select and Samsung Studio, which help streamline image, video, and document editing.

For professionals in the smart home industry, all these innovations point to ever more seamless, AI-integrated ecosystems. It looks like Samsung’s vision of a connected living space has finally become reality.