Philips OLED 909 Evaluation: audio quality akin to heavenly dreams, and visuals matched flawlessly
The Philips OLED 909, the latest offering from the tech giant, has made a splash in the TV market with its impressive features and premium design.
Setup and Design
Setting up the Philips OLED 909 might require a pair of hands due to its weight, which tips the scales at just under 25kg. The TV's design is minimalist, with a barely-visible lip around the edge of the panel and a material on the speaker at the bottom that is rarely visible when watching. The TV stands on a new two-feet stand design, spaced equidistantly from the set's centre and offering stability but no swivel movement.
Performance
The Philips OLED 909 boasts a Micro-Lens Array (MLA) OLED panel, considered the best-of-the-best among OLED TVs. This panel allows the TV to deliver low-level bass that is satisfying, something many competitors can only dream about. However, it's worth noting that the TV's black-level control isn't always as nuanced as some competitors.
The Philips OLED 909 is the brightest panel that Philips offers to date, putting it on par with LG's OLED G4, Sony A95L, and Samsung S95D in the QD-OLED space. This added brightness potential contributes to generally incredible picture quality.
Features
The Philips OLED 909 offers a Game Mode for enhanced gaming experiences and a four-sided Ambilight, extending the image beyond the screen and delivering an almost magical effect. The TV runs Google TV, but the implementation isn't perfect, with some button presses resulting in "Feature is not available in current mode" messages and Philips' own menus sometimes clashing with Google's.
The TV's built-in 3.1 sound system, provided by Bowers & Wilkins, delivers exceptional audio. The audio output is from a material-covered soundbar-like strip to the front of the TV, and a built-in woofer and rear speakers add additional heft. The Philips OLED 909 supports a wider array of HDR formats, including HDR10 and HDR10+, in addition to Dolby Vision, enhancing image quality on compatible content.
Pricing and Availability
The Philips OLED 909 is priced at £1,999 for the 55-inch model, £2,799 for the 65-inch model, and £4,449 for the 77-inch model. The TV is available for purchase on the Richer Sounds website, and stock isn't showing elsewhere at the time of writing.
Unfortunately, the Philips OLED 909 does not have integrated UK catch-up apps, which is a shame for a TV that's not even retailed internationally. The handling of three-dimensional audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos, isn't as convincing as a dedicated system or separate surround setup.
In comparison to the Philips OLED 809, the OLED909 offers enhanced HDR support (HDR10, HDR10+ in addition to Dolby Vision) and likely better image processing, while both use OLED panels and share features like Philips’ Ambilight. Sound quality differences are not clearly specified in the available information.
The Philips OLED 909's remote control features illuminating Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, and a further apps button, providing access to many of the best streaming services.
- For individuals interested in interior design, the Philips OLED 909's premium design could be an attractive addition to their home.
- Aspiring chefs might appreciate discussing the TV's performance while cooking, as its brightness is on par with top competitors in the market.
- The Philips OLED 909's minimalist design aligns well with a modern lifestyle, whether being showcased in the living room or dining area.
- Fashion enthusiasts could find inspiration in pairing the TV with a sophisticated outfit, as both the TV and the outfit would reflect the latest trends in style and beauty.
- Foodies will enjoy experimenting with new recipes on the Philips OLED 909, as its picture quality is generally incredible for watching cooking shows.
- Tech-savvy individuals can discuss the TV's features, such as Game Mode and the four-sided Ambilight, when talking about the latest gadgets and smartphones.
- The integration of Google TV on the Philips OLED 909 fits well into discussions about technology and personal growth, as lifelong learning involves adapting to new technologies.
- Professionals focusing on education and self-development might find the Philips OLED 909 useful for virtual meetings or online classes, given its exceptional audio quality.
- Career-oriented individuals could use the Philips OLED 909 to stay updated on general news while working, enhancing their skills training and knowledge through various educational channels.
- Sports fans would appreciate following their favorite soccer matches on the Philips OLED 909, whether it's the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, or European Leagues.
- Cinephiles could engage in discussions about sci-fi and fantasy movies, enjoying the added brightness potential on the Philips OLED 909 for a better viewing experience.
- In the world of pop culture, the Philips OLED 909 could serve as a topic of conversation for its unique features and design, reflecting the latest trends in entertainment.
- For those who enjoy a bit of gambling to wind down after a long day, the Philips OLED 909 offers an immersive experience for playing casino games, making it a fitting addition to the entertainment corner of the home.
