High-end TCL C8K TVs are coming to Czechia! They feature QD-Mini LED with brutal brightness and amazing sound

TCL, which still holds the third position in sales in Czechia and Slovakia, is launching a new series of TVs, the C8K. These are premium models with QD-Mini LED technology, boasting extreme brightness, a high number of dimming zones, and a sound system tuned in collaboration with the Danish legend Bang & Olufsen. The TVs are expected to be available in stores from July 1st.

Extreme brightness and thousands of dimming zones

TCL C8K utilizes the seventh generation of QD-Mini LED technology, intended to compete with premium models from Samsung or Sony. The largest 98″ model will offer up to 3840 independent dimming zones, while smaller sizes will have proportionally fewer (the 85″ has 2880 zones, the 75″ includes 2176 zones, and the smallest 65″ model features 1680 zones).

What is even more impressive than the number of zones is the maximum brightness of up to 5000 nits on the 98″ model (smaller 75″ and 65″ variants reach 4500 nits). This value surpasses most competing TVs, including more premium models like Sony Bravia 9. The manufacturer also mentions a new panel type, CrystGLow WHVA, with a native contrast of 7000:1, wide viewing angles, and an advanced anti-reflective coating.

Gaming features and smooth picture

TCL doesn’t forget about gamers either. The C8K TVs are equipped with a panel with a native refresh rate of 144 Hz. For an even smoother experience, the manufacturer has implemented the Game Accelerator 288 Hz feature, which can simulate an even higher refresh rate when the resolution is reduced to Full HD.

From the available information, we know that the TV will offer two HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 4K/144Hz signals, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). However, one of these ports also serves as eARC for connecting an external sound system.

Premium sound with the signature of a Danish legend

While last year’s models relied on an Onkyo sound system, the new C8K series has opted for collaboration with Bang & Olufsen. The Danish audio legend is said to be behind the sound system in a 6.2.2 configuration – meaning six standard speakers for front and center channels, two subwoofers, and two upward-firing speakers for Dolby Atmos effects.

TCL states that B&O acoustic engineers, who are behind the brand’s iconic speakers, collaborated directly on the sound development. The goal was to create a sound system that would provide a high-quality experience without the need to purchase external speaker systems, which has historically been true for at least some TCL models.

Frameless design and slim body

In terms of design, TCL continues the trend of minimalist TVs with almost invisible bezels. ZeroBorder technology reduces the bezel to just 4 millimeters, maximizing the screen area.

Compared to previous models, the C8K gives a more premium impression overall. The manufacturer has improved the design of the stand, which is centrally located, and the back of the TV also houses the subwoofers and prominent branding indicating sound by Bang & Olufsen.

System and format support

The TCL C8K runs on the Google TV operating system, which offers access to the most popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, and Apple TV+, as well as the local Oneplay. For wireless content sharing, both Apple AirPlay and Google Chromecast are available, and the TV supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth.

Unlike some competitors who debate support for advanced HDR formats, TCL offers complete support for all standards – HDR10, HLG, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision IQ.

First impressions: bright picture and potential weaknesses

According to initial foreign hands-on reviews, the most noticeable improvement is the extreme brightness. During the TV’s presentation in Paris, reviewers noted truly impressive luminance, which can excellently display bright details in HDR content, such as shots of lava or tropical islands with vibrant colors.

A potential weakness could be the so-called „blooming” effect – unwanted glow around bright objects on a dark background. Reviewers particularly noticed this phenomenon with a white logo on a black background, suggesting that despite the high number of dimming zones, the TCL C8K might suffer from this drawback. However, the true performance can only be assessed during thorough testing under controlled conditions.

Prices and availability

TCL C8K TVs are available in Czechia and Slovakia in four sizes:

• 65″ model (65C8K) – 49 990 Kč / 1 999 €
• 75″ model (75C8K) – 69 990 Kč / 2 799 €
• 85″ model (85C8K) – 99 990 Kč / 3 999 €
• 98″ model (98C8K) – 149 990 Kč / 5 999 €

However, based on previous experience with this brand, we can expect prices to drop soon after launch, often by tens of percent.

The C8K is TCL’s top 4K model for this year, while in other markets, the manufacturer offers even more feature-rich models like the C9K and X11K, which will not be available in the Czech Republic.

What do you think of the new TCL TVs?

Source: press release, whathifi.com