Donald Trump’s new tariffs have cast a shadow over the U.S. economy, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty that suggests a likelihood of rising prices on a wide array of goods, from food to construction materials. High-priced electronics, such as TVs and soundbars, may be particularly affected. The expected launch price for Sony’s new flagship Bravia 8 Mk II OLED TV, likely on par or lower than the 2023 A95L, instead appears to be significantly higher, with other brands seemingly following this trend.
Amid the uncertainty, many individuals are seeking advice on purchasing new TVs or soundbars. A recommended strategy to mitigate the impact of tariffs is to consider last year’s models, which often provide excellent quality at a reduced price. Although buyers may forego some new features, they can still acquire high-quality electronics affordably. Several recommendations are available for those interested in exploring top TVs and soundbars from previous years to achieve substantial savings.
Roku’s Plus Series is an attractive option for those seeking a straightforward experience at a lower price point. Featuring local dimming for enhanced contrast and black levels, along with vivid quantum dot colors, this TV is user-friendly. It also includes voice control and a simplified Bluetooth connection, along with a convenient lost remote-finder.
For videophiles who have yet to embrace OLED technology, the LG C4 provides an exceptional blend of price and picture quality. Offering nearly double the brightness of previous models, advanced gaming features such as a 120-Hz refresh rate, and universal HDMI 2.1 connectivity, it is a standout option without the tariffs. The device also features LG’s Magic Remote for intuitive control.
The Hisense U8N, with its superb brightness and minimal light bloom, is ideal for viewing even in the brightest conditions. It boasts vivid colors, great contrast, and advanced gaming capabilities, making it a competitive option in its class.
TCL’s QM6K, released early, is another noteworthy contender providing excellent balance with impressive black levels and rich colors. It supports great gaming features and offers an easy-to-use Google TV interface, making it a versatile choice.
In the OLED category, Samsung’s S90 is lauded for its stylish design and superior contrast. Despite its lack of Dolby Vision support, its OLED capabilities deliver stunning visuals.
Sony’s A95L, introduced in 2023, remains a notable option due to its outstanding picture quality. Though it may not match the latest models in brightness, its superior processing and display quality have earned it significant accolades.
Similarly, several soundbars are recommended for those looking to enhance their audio experience. Vizio’s AIO bar offers dynamic sound without frills like Wi-Fi or a remote, making it a simple yet effective choice for improved audio performance.
For those seeking an upgradeable system, Klipsch’s Flexus Core 200 provides quality audio with up-firing Dolby Atmos speakers for an immersive experience. It allows for future expansion with additional speakers or subwoofers.
Samsung’s Q990 series, offering comprehensive Dolby Atmos sound, continues to be a strong choice, even amidst tariff concerns. Both its rich audio experience and cost-effective pricing compared to newer models highlight its appeal.
These recommendations aim to provide options for consumers seeking high-quality devices at reduced prices amid the changing economic landscape influenced by new tariffs.
