8K resolution is the next big step for TV, offering four times the pixels of a 4K TV (and 16 times the size of a 1080p HDTV). Most new TVs are still 4K, and 8K models are still expensive rugs for most manufacturers. That’s not the case with TCL, however, which has announced a new step in making 8K more accessible.
Each new 2021 TCL TV will be 6-series, under model number R648, 8K. This is probably big news for budget-oriented early adopters, as the Series 6 has been a strong lineup that, while not the cheapest TCL, has made an impact. consistently with the reasonable price and strong performance. Hopefully this will be true for the R648 TVs, although TCL has not announced prices for 2021 8K models yet. 4K 2020 R635s will still be available this year.
8K is not the only update for the new TVs. The 621 6-Series TVs will also use TCL’s new third-generation mini LED backlight system. Called OD Zero, it uses up to tens of thousands of LEDs with thousands of different zones in a backlight cover that is directly opposite the LCD array, allowing TV to be even thinner and offers better brightness and screen uniformity. As always, we need to see for ourselves to be sure.
In addition to the new 8K TVs, TCL has unveiled the XL Collection, a group of three 85-inch TV models that are available across the company’s TV lines. It is the first and most affordable of the 85-inch TV 4-Series models (85R435) that will sell for $ 1,599 in the coming months. After that, TCL will launch an 85-inch QLED module, the 85R745, followed by an 8-inch mini-LED 8K TV (unnamed, but possibly 6-Series). This follows a trend we are seeing from many TV manufacturers making TV models much more affordable (relatively affordable) in the 85- to 88-inch range.
(TCL Alto R1)
On the audio side, TCL has some new soundbars designed for use with its Roku TVs. The Alto R1 is the company’s first wireless soundbar, which connects to compatible Roku TV without cable, like the Roku TV wireless speakers. There will also be several new Roku Ready wired sound bars, for easy installation with Roku TV over HDMI-ARC. They include the Alto 82i, a one-piece bar with built-in dual subwoofers; the Alto 8e, a 3.2.1-channel sound bar with speakers up and a wireless subwoofer; and the third, anonymous “main sound by Dolby Atmos.”
The TCL 85R435 will be launched later in Q1 2021. The Alto 82i soundbar will be launched in Q3 2021. TCL has not yet announced prices or availability for the TV or other speakers aige.