Sony products have longed been regarded as “the best money can buy” with their products. There is always a premium that is commanded for their products over rival companies with similar offerings. Case in point is their selection of LCD televisions. Other companies like Sharp and Samsung have LCD sets that have equal or better specs than Sony’s but why are Sony’s LCD more expensive and in higher demand? It’s a simple question with a simple answer: aesthetics! While programming on a Sharp Aquos LCD looks just as stunning as a Sony XBR2 LCD, the difference is that when the TV sets are turned off, the XBR2 is stunning piece of furniture that complements any living room while the Sharp Aquos is just a TV set that’s not in use. The XBR2’s dimensions are larger than comparable size LCD in its market because it features an attractive, elegant floating glass display. The LCD set looks like a picture frame! Sony offers many product lines for LCD televisions but their full 1080P HD LCD line consists of the V2500, XBR2, and XBR3 models. The V2500 model includes 2 HDMI connections and Sony’s Bravia Engine for picture processing while the XBR2 and XBR3 lines include 3 HDMI outputs and the Bravia Pro Engine for picture processing. Most people won’t need the 3 HDMI for connectivity and I didn’t think I would either but with an HD digital box, up-converting DVD player, and a future Xbox 360 Elite system purchase, I will require all 3 outputs. What is the difference between the XBR2 and XBR3 lines? Not a whole much actually but maybe bragging rights. Aesthetically, the XBR3 differentiates itself with a black bezel frame compared to XBR2’s silver frame. You can actually buy different colored frames for the XBR2 at a hefty $300 USD retail price tag. Besides the frame color, the only other difference between the two models is an extra six months of warranty (18 months for the XBR3). Not too sure if people can justify the price difference of $300 USD for the two models. Either way, you can’t go wrong with a Sony XBR2 / XBR3 LCD TV. There’s a new 70” XBR3 LCD on Sony’s site for a measly $32000 USD. I’m sure it’s already sold out.