Sony SDM-X52

WHAT'S HOT: The SDM-X52, clad in Sony's distinctive light purplish-gray tones, rendered excellent color quality when tested in digital mode. Colors on a photo of glazed fruit were rich and deep without being overly dark. Text quality was good, but our judges saw some jaggy fonts in a newsletter and in a screen showing multiple type sizes.

WHAT'S NOT: This unit is on the pricey side, as many Sony products tend to be.

The SDM-X52's built-in speakers save desktop space, but they produced weak audio with barely perceptible bass notes, even when we cranked up the volume as high as it would go. Given Sony's history as a stereo maker we expected more, and some other Sony displays--like its pricey SDM-V72W--deliver much better sound.

The panel is harder to adjust than others we've evaluated because, although it can be tilted back as much as 80 degrees, the hinge is tight. The monitor lacks two desirable ergonomic features: It doesn't swivel on its base, and it can't pivot.

WHAT ELSE: The SDM-X52 is a bit heavier, taller, and wider than competing models.

The control buttons are arranged vertically on the right side of the monitor, an unusual but handy design. You'll find common controls for adjusting brightness and contrast, plus a few unusual ones worth fiddling with. Gamma 1, 2, 3 for instance, is good for adjusting the color balance on photos. Another control lets you smooth out images and text that you've selected using the Zoom control. A button labeled "Eco" enables you to extend the backlight's life (and lower power consumption) by reducing its brightness. This feature works better in dim rooms than in brightly lit ones, but in any case it can result in an easier-on-the-eyes image if you find the default setting too bright.

A headphone jack is built into the monitor's bezel on the left, while two audio inputs are located in back. The second audio port is for use with the second graphics input (the 15-pin analog connector), in case you want to connect another PC.

A large user manual covers setup thoroughly and includes sections dedicated to explaining on-screen controls and troubleshooting common problems. The manual is well designed and has plenty of useful illustrations.

UPSHOT: People who work regularly with graphics will appreciate this stylish unit's terrific color quality--and may be willing to pay the small premium required to get it.

SUMMARY

Sony SDM-X52 $