Samsung expands LED lineup with the 8500 HDTV

San Francisco (CA) – Samsung has expanded its LED lineup with the 1080p 8500 HDTV. The new 46 and 56-inch models are reportedly capable of a 7,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio for “extreme” detail and image depth.

The 8500 also features an integrated color enhancer, a 240Hz refresh rate and an ultra clear panel that ensures consistent clarity irrespective of external lighting conditions.

“For consumers who are looking for the ultimate HD centerpiece and high-level performance in their home theater, the 8500 series delivers break-through quality and design,” spun Samsung’s John Revie. “The 8500 underscores (our) dedication to providing a full range of HDTVs that not only achieve the highest levels of picture quality, but also provide unique and immersive entertainment experiences through our Medi 2.0 suite.”

According to Revie, the 8500 Medi 2.0 suite provides wired/wireless DLNA compatibility as well as two USB connections that can be used for playing video, photo and audio files from portable devices. In addition, Internet TV offers 8500 owners on-screen access to web-based content from various sites, including Yahoo, Flickr, Twitter and YouTube.

However, the 8500 does not come cheap. The 54.6-inch unit is priced at $4,500, while the 45.9-inch sells for a “modest” $3,600.