The Samsung LE40C650

This is a comparison review between the Sony KDL37EX503U and the Samsung LE40C650 currently available on Amazon for a similar price. Unfortunately both my Sony KDL37EX503U's (original and replacement) ordered from Amazon had a loud buzzing noise coming from the right top rear of the tv and were returned. The Samsung LE40C650 was purchased as a replacement.

Both have a similar spread of features.

Sitting 10 feet away, there is very little difference between how the screen sizes, 37inch and 40inch feel.

Where the Sony trumps the Samsung:
i)The noise and motion processing is better. With the Sony, motion appeared fluid and natural at all times. With the Samsung, occasionally motion looks a bit stuttery. The difference is subtle, but its there.
ii) The menu's are clearer and better resolved.
iii) Stability. The Samsung's internet connectivity / menus have bugs. Menu's sometimes freeze for no reason. After watching the internet (say BBC iPlayer) terrestrial TV often doesn't work. Both problems are easily solved by switching the tv on and off. The Sony did not crash once. EDIT: Once the Samsung was connected to the internet, it updated itself and the stability problems went away.
iv) Movie playback is a lot better. Movies look like movies. The Samsung edits away film grain giving films a "TV" look.

Where the Samsung trumps the Sony:
i)The colour balance out of the box is better on the Samsung. All channels are vibrant. The Sony would make some programs and channels look dull and murky.
ii) The sound quality is a touch better.
iii) Build quality. The Samsung feels better made. The back is metal rather than the plastic of the Sony.
iv) Off centre viewing is much better. There is no noticeable drop off in colour or image quality off axis. With the Sony the image looks progressively dimmer the future off centre you go. It’s not enough for the image to become unwatchable, but it is noticeable. The effect is akin to moving gradually from a 100w to 60w light bulb the further off axis you sit.

The Samsung LE40C650 is satisfying to own and by no means a poor relation.