I actually upgraded to this flat panel from a Samsung PN51F5500, and the difference is as clear as day. Firstly, let me say that the F5500's only issue was decreased performance in relation to ambient light and the brightness factor during daytime watching. Other than that, in a dim/dark room, it performed admirably.
To begin, I honestly didn't think the F8500 would really be as amazing as described by CNET's David Katzmaier, but my doubt was severely misplaced. Regarding style, it is one of the most beautifully designed flat panels I've seen in a while. Sure, the LED TV's look futuristic, modern and minimalist, no arguments there. However, given that this is a plasma - a slim & trim one - and given all the 'techy guts' packed into its small frame, Samsung has truly created a work of art. Many people may not be fans of flat panels with bezels, but it doesn't get better than this. It's a beautiful combination of glass and metal, of which the stand must certainly be the pinnacle of its design. The illusion of seamless metal works wonderfully, and the gunmetal/graphite tint of the frame/stand looks handsome and elegant. This color perfectly compliments the deep black, anti-reflective screen.
Regarding peripherals, in this case the 3-D glasses and remote (only touch pad version included), there is room for improvement. Obviously, as you'll no doubt read in many professional reviews, the 3-D glasses are probably one of the weaker links in the chain. Yes, they work, and yes, the 3-D effect is amazing, but the idiosyncrasy in craftsmanship is clearly noted when comparing the glasses to the panel. They just don't match, and it's apparent; I wish Samsung would've created 3-D glasses worthy of the TV they accompany. The remote, on the other hand, is very well manufactured. The battery leaf on the back sits flush against the top half and there are no noticeable gaps. The touch pad itself works very well, is very responsive, and feels quality made. The voice recognition software worked surprisingly well out of the box and didn't require any special tinkering or additional honing. Being that the remote is connected to the panel via Bluetooth, I had no issues using the remote in a couple of different rooms, albeit a maximum of 25-30 ft from the panel. Given the money this panel is selling for and the fact that it's designed to be a high-end model, I also wish Samsung would've included their wireless keyboard.
Regarding the SmartHub, it responds very quickly - due entirely to the quad core processor. The touch pad sensitivity and responsiveness makes for a very pleasant experience when navigating. I've used a few Apps, nothing extensive. From the few that I've touched, everything seems to be working fine. Buffering/Processing happens quickly, half of which depends on your connection speed. Regarding initial set up, the process is quick and painless assuming you have your cable top box set up and your wireless network set up. The only issue I have is inputting information, which takes forever with the 'swipe'n'click' process (keyboard would've been a welcome addition here). It's also an issue when entering credentials for online TV/Movie services provided on the App page.
Regarding Gesture Control, I have to say, it's pretty neat...but that's where it ends. There is no reason to use this function since there is an included remote. It's a gimmick feature Samsung threw in to sweeten the pot, but in reality, not very utilitarian. Maybe with the upcoming Evolution Kit, there will be improved software to remove glitches, and an actual need/use for this feature (free games in the Samsung SmartHub???).
Regarding Picture Quality, the hype is a reality. I used the recommended settings (with minor tweaks of my own) Mr. Katzmaier calibrated his F8500 with, and I'm very happy with the result. Even so, out of the box, the 'Movie' mode is darn near spot-on. So, unless you're a certified ISF Calibrator, the average consumer (i.e. Me) won't have to make many changes, if any, at all. 'Dynamic' mode is eye-searingly bright, 'Standard' mode is a more toned-down version of 'Dynamic', 'Relaxed' mode seems to be some variation of an eco-friendly setting, and of course I already mentioned 'Movie' mode. One thing that has been highly touted concerning this panel is its ability to put out light, and you better believe it. In my mind, it seems brighter than many LED's simply because of the deep inky blacks it maintains while still emitting the kind of light it does. The contrast ratio is ridiculously high, and makes the picture POP like I've never before seen. In comparison to my friend's 50" Pioneer Pro-101fd (Kuro), I'd venture to say that this panel very clearly outperforms what everyone deems the 'reference' standard. Sure, it could be my untrained, unrefined, amateur eye, but even so, I'd say ignorance is bliss in this instance! As many have already stated, watching normal TV (FiOS) is an absolute joy because the panel just makes everything look better (or worse, depending on what you're watching). I've had absolutely NO PROBLEM watching anything in broad, blazing day light. Just to be clear, I have a 18' x 10' window situated just to the left of my panel, facing east & unblocked, so sunlight streams in a big portion of the day (when I have the curtains opened, obviously). In testing the panel's picture quality, I used Planet Earth, Kung Fu Panda, the Pioneer Kuro's original demo, and the Samsung Plasma Demo.
My wife, upon seeing the performance of the F5500 we originally had, commented that she'd never seen a clearer image on any TV (I told her to get out more, to which she responded, 'I do' and gave me a look, to which I responded 'Touche'). Now, when it comes to electronics/technology, she's unconcerned at best. For example, she can't tell the difference between standard definition and HD. Now, before we have anyone comment on my 'wife-bashing', I'm not, I'm just trying illustrate my point. When she saw the F8500 at work, as I was concurrently explaining to her how flipping awesome the panel was, she shushed me (big surprise there...no, seriously, big surprise) and says, 'Movie nights just got a whole lot better'. After I heard THAT, I KNEW, for a FACT, I DID NOT GO WRONG and at the same time felt SO PROUD OF HER!
Can't wait to see/hear what'll happen when we upgrade to OLED or 4K UHD!!!
In the meantime, hope this review helped those who may have been on the fence, or those on the lookout for a new panel.
| Brand Name | SAMSUNG |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 71.4 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 54.8 x 11.8 x 34.3 inches |
| Item model number | PN60F8500 |
| Batteries | 2 AA batteries required. (included) |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Color Name | Black |
| Item Weight | 71.4 Pounds |
| Standing screen display size | 60 Inches |
| Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
| Wattage | 20 watts |
