Promoted Philips OLED+936 and OLED+986 – continuous improvements bring a new reference performance.

If you're really into gaming, go with an 8x6 model as that (I believe) now has true 4K 120hz/vrr support. The 936 does not have true 4K 120hz (vertical resolution is halved at 120hz) with or without vrr.

If you want an all in one solution (ie panel and soundbar) and don't mind 4k gaming at 60hz, 936.

I own the 936, but will readily admit that value for money wise, the 8x6 models have it licked.
8x6 models have really bad black crush and posterisation in dark scenes, especially when watching streaming content. The 936 is far too expensive for the tv you get, nearly £1k of the price is for the soundbar/stand.

I'd go for (in my personal order but all three are better in different ways) LG, Sony or Panasonic.
 
8x6 models have really bad black crush and posterisation in dark scenes, especially when watching streaming content
I see that with the 936 as well, always assumed that's a source issue and I just didn't notice it that much because of my old device's low contrast.
 
I see that with the 936 as well, always assumed that's a source issue and I just didn't notice it that much because of my old device's low contrast.
It's much worse on the 8x6 and 7x6 series due to the different chip, the 9x6 series were more focused on picture quality, thus the dual core chip instead of the single core of the others. Philips talked about it when they were forced to explain the 4k 120Hz issue.
 
Hi Guys,
Just set-up my Philips 936 OLED (the 48 inch version) and overall... so far so good. Very impressed with the picture and sound and features.
I'm still fighting my way through the manual and settings in order to get the very best out of the set - before getting it calibrated further down the line.
Having watch Phil Hinton's excellent informative video on the best 'out of the box' settings for this display I have a question re the Dolby Vision setting. I have completed the set-up for SDR and HDR content as per Phil's observations and the settings he recommends. They look fab to me. Very happy.

Dolby Vision however is another matter...

So, when I'm viewing Dolby Vision content... I set the TV to 'Dolby Vision Dark' but this is far too dark for me and far darker than the corresponding SDR and HDR settings that look vibrant (but accurate and realistic). My question relates to the 'LIGHT BOOST' setting (which is under the 'CONTRAST' sub menu). I have this set to 'MAXIMUM' for HDR (as recommended by Phil) and it looks great. However, for Dolby Vision... I get the impression Phil's setting for 'LIGHT BOOST' is 'OFF'. This is currently what I have it set to... and it is really dark and murky. Is this an oversight in Phil's video - and therefore 'LIGHT BOOST' be turned on and set to 'MAXIMUM' (like it is for HDR viewing), or is there another reason (i.e. a player setting) why Dolby Vision content is sooo dark and murky with Phil's recommended settings. I hope that makes sense. Thank you guys! M
 

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on my 936 65" I use DV Bright mode (light boost is max) and that I thought was too dark and a little too contrasty, so I tried setting the Gamma to -1 as someone recently suggested and now I think its hit the right balance.
 
on my 936 65" I use DV Bright mode (light boost is max) and that I thought was too dark and a little too contrasty, so I tried setting the Gamma to -1 as someone recently suggested and now I think its hit the right balance.
Thank you! I will give that a go. Appreciated mate.
 
On the Philips 936 TV... which way round do you insert the 'figure 8 power cable' ?
 
If you're really into gaming, go with an 8x6 model as that (I believe) now has true 4K 120hz/vrr support. The 936 does not have true 4K 120hz (vertical resolution is halved at 120hz) with or without vrr.

If you want an all in one solution (ie panel and soundbar) and don't mind 4k gaming at 60hz, 936.

I own the 936, but will readily admit that value for money wise, the 8x6 models have it licked.
I went with the 65OLED856, I have in my bedroom a 55” LG E9, the LG changed the panel to a new one this year in January (prior to the end of the 2 Year LG warranty period), due to some minor burn-in. Out of the box the E9 has a much better overall picture quality in every mode: SDR, HDR and DV. I dont even enjoy playing via PS5 on the Philips, the HDR looks so pale. The only feature that made me pick a Philips over a new LG C2 or G2, is ambilight, nothing else. Now, I am really thinking if I made the right choice, to improve the 856 picture quality I would need to use it at least for 100 hours and afterwards calibrate the display with a specialist. I am really considering the return of the 856 and swap it to C2 or G2.
 
How do people have the built in sound bar set up in the sound settings on the 936?
Is it better to use AI, original, personal or movie modes?
Is there one that doesn't mess with the original sound track and will play Atmos, DTS or other surround formats without applying any processing?

Thanks
 
How do people have the built in sound bar set up in the sound settings on the 936?
Is it better to use AI, original, personal or movie modes?
Is there one that doesn't mess with the original sound track and will play Atmos, DTS or other surround formats without applying any processing?

Thanks
I'm wondering the same
 
How do people have the built in sound bar set up in the sound settings on the 936?
Is it better to use AI, original, personal or movie modes?
Is there one that doesn't mess with the original sound track and will play Atmos, DTS or other surround formats without applying any processing?

Thanks
And me...
 
Hello everyone, i'm thinking to buy the OLED936. I want the best OLED picture/video quality possible with the Ambilight so I chose this TV, but I have some questions. I'm playing games but my console is not 120hz, so I wouldn't have any problems with that 120hz problem. Does the TV has any other problems other than the 4K 120HZ thing ? Can I use this TV for a long time ? It would have a long life span since it's a flagship device right ? I would be happy if someone gives their honest opinions, thanks.

Note: please don't say “don't buy that buy LG” etc, I just want replies to my questions and the things I should know.
 
If you're into Ambilight your options are limited, so... if you're not affected by a specific issue, e.g. the 120Hz lie or eARC problems, and just want a device that works with out of the box great sound and picture quality, the 936 is a decent choice.
If you need support, forget it. Philips support is nonexistent.
 
Support for what though?
 
I went with the 65OLED856, I have in my bedroom a 55” LG E9, the LG changed the panel to a new one this year in January (prior to the end of the 2 Year LG warranty period), due to some minor burn-in. Out of the box the E9 has a much better overall picture quality in every mode: SDR, HDR and DV. I dont even enjoy playing via PS5 on the Philips, the HDR looks so pale. The only feature that made me pick a Philips over a new LG C2 or G2, is ambilight, nothing else. Now, I am really thinking if I made the right choice, to improve the 856 picture quality I would need to use it at least for 100 hours and afterwards calibrate the display with a specialist. I am really considering the return of the 856 and swap it to C2 or G2.
Sorry to hear you're not enjoying your purchase presently.

I have the 936, but I'd imagine you'd still have the option in any picture mode (HDR, Dolby Vision etc.) to tweak the the Light Boost setting (Settings -> Picture -> Advanced -> Contrast). This may help with the pale HDR image you refer to (this, along with tweaking other picture settings of course).

Alternatively, you could exchange your Philips for an LG and pair that up with offerings from Govee or AmbiVision (search for "ambilight alternatives"). These will not be as elegant a solution as the built in ambilight of a Philips and will also require installation on your part, but may give you the chance to get the picture and ambilight effect you want.

No TV at any price point will give you everything you want but my personal feeling is that if you're doubting your purchase already, you'll likely not enjoy it further down the line either. If it were me, I'd exchange now while it's still an option for you.

Hope that helps.
 
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Does the TV has any other problems other than the 4K 120HZ thing ?
For me personally, no other problems. I'm really enjoying my 936 (55"). I would note though, that I use the TV as a standalone and it is not hooked up to an AV receiver etc.

One thing though, I would say you need to comfortable with rootling around the various settings to get the best out of it. There are some "set and forget" options, but I find even these need a little tweak here and there to suit my eyes.

Can I use this TV for a long time ?
In what sense? Are we talking number of hours per day or the general lifespan of the TV?

In any case, it really depends on how you use it. OLEDs are organic and subject to deterioration over time. If you're planning to use it for sports broadcasts etc and/or have the brightness whacked up to max at all times, this will make the panel work harder and likely deteriorate faster. Yes, Philips (like other panel manufacturers) put in measures to protect the panel, but my own feeling is that OLEDs need a bit more consideration to how they're used compared to other panel technologies. I was aware of this going in and have modified my use (compared to my old LED panel) accordingly.

It would have a long life span since it's a flagship device right ?
I would say that's a dangerous assumption to make.
Note: please don't say “don't buy that buy LG” etc
Can't tell you how much I love this comment! 😂

Do feel free to reach out again if any of the above is unclear and as ever, the above is just based on one guy's experience!
 
For me personally, no other problems. I'm really enjoying my 936 (55"). I would note though, that I use the TV as a standalone and it is not hooked up to an AV receiver etc.

One thing though, I would say you need to comfortable with rootling around the various settings to get the best out of it. There are some "set and forget" options, but I find even these need a little tweak here and there to suit my eyes.


In what sense? Are we talking number of hours per day or the general lifespan of the TV?

In any case, it really depends on how you use it. OLEDs are organic and subject to deterioration over time. If you're planning to use it for sports broadcasts etc and/or have the brightness whacked up to max at all times, this will make the panel work harder and likely deteriorate faster. Yes, Philips (like other panel manufacturers) put in measures to protect the panel, but my own feeling is that OLEDs need a bit more consideration to how they're used compared to other panel technologies. I was aware of this going in and have modified my use (compared to my old LED panel) accordingly.


I would say that's a dangerous assumption to make.

Can't tell you how much I love this comment! 😂

Do feel free to reach out again if any of the above is unclear and as ever, the above is just based on one guy's experience!
Hahahaha thank you so much, this was enjoyable to read. I have to ask one more thing, do you think it would be worth to wait for the OLED937 ? They are about to come out apparently, and 936 is running out of stock here so I should either buy it now or wait for the 937. But when 937 comes out it will probably be 2x more expensive here than the 936. What would you do if you were in my situation ? I feel like 936 is already perfect with it's EVO panel so I feel like it would be ok if I buy it. I'll post here and tag you if I have any more questions, thank you 🙏🙏
 
Hahahaha thank you so much, this was enjoyable to read. I have to ask one more thing, do you think it would be worth to wait for the OLED937 ? They are about to come out apparently, and 936 is running out of stock here so I should either buy it now or wait for the 937. But when 937 comes out it will probably be 2x more expensive here than the 936. What would you do if you were in my situation ? I feel like 936 is already perfect with it's EVO panel so I feel like it would be ok if I buy it. I'll post here and tag you if I have any more questions, thank you 🙏🙏

Short answer from me is go for the 936.

The 937 is likely to have the newer EX panel, a "game bar" to adjust picture settings more easily when gaming, and could support true 4k @120hz. This is just stuff I've picked up on but don't believe anything has been confirmed. The soundbar again will be another B&W touch; there was some overhaul/refinement of the speaker array between the 935 and 936, so it's reasonable to expect some similar tweaks between the 936 and 937. It should also come with a slightly more refined ambilight.

As you note, the 937 will be pricey on release and for me, the above changes (again, not confirmed to my knowledge) aren't worth the price of entry. If you're prepared to wait till the end of the year, there may well be a deal to be had on the 937 but if you can find a deal on the 936 now, that's the best value to my mind.
 
Short answer from me is go for the 936.

The 937 is likely to have the newer EX panel, a "game bar" to adjust picture settings more easily when gaming, and could support true 4k @120hz. This is just stuff I've picked up on but don't believe anything has been confirmed. The soundbar again will be another B&W touch; there was some overhaul/refinement of the speaker array between the 935 and 936, so it's reasonable to expect some similar tweaks between the 936 and 937. It should also come with a slightly more refined ambilight.

As you note, the 937 will be pricey on release and for me, the above changes (again, not confirmed to my knowledge) aren't worth the price of entry. If you're prepared to wait till the end of the year, there may well be a deal to be had on the 937 but if you can find a deal on the 936 now, that's the best value to my mind.
Thank youuu, is there any problems with the current Ambilight on 936, since it's getting improved for 937 ? Like does it have any delays compared to what's on the screen etc ? It looked ok to me on the videos, I only heard about one problem which was it doesn't get black on the black scenes but it gets fixed if you use the Ambilight in game mode I guess.
 
Hello everyone, i'm thinking to buy the OLED936. I want the best OLED picture/video quality possible with the Ambilight so I chose this TV, but I have some questions. I'm playing games but my console is not 120hz, so I wouldn't have any problems with that 120hz problem. Does the TV has any other problems other than the 4K 120HZ thing ? Can I use this TV for a long time ? It would have a long life span since it's a flagship device right ? I would be happy if someone gives their honest opinions, thanks.

Note: please don't say “don't buy that buy LG” etc, I just want replies to my questions and the things I should know.

I think @Need a PhD in TV has probably said enough for you by now…
… but I also say go with the 936, certainly for picture quality and ambilight.
I paid £2000 for it, but have had it since last October and still happy I did so - and I didn’t even connect the soundbar as it gets in the way of my AV System centre speaker. So for times when I don’t want a room full of sound, or the heat of the AVC during a heatwave, I had to buy a low profile one from Yamaha :-&

To add to your other questions…
… I don’t have any real issues with the TV now, there were a few sound issue with ARC/eARC but that was sorted after a month or few. I prefer the Atmos sound and maybe picture using a 4K Gen 2 Apple TV, well I did until a s/w update to it causes occasional massive clicks and pops so back using the inbuilt TV Apps for Netflix and Apple TV+.
… My TV is typically on for at least 5 hours a day with someone watching, longer at weekends and special items like Wimbledon in 4K HDR on the iPlayer, Glastonbury, probably some of the Commonwealth games next. I have the Enhanced local image protection on default as I don’t use it for gaming and it doesn’t get in the way if the football scoreline dims a bit. I don’t seem to suffer from HDR whole screen dimming issues as others do (maybe just 8x6 TVs) and after a couple of months I rarely get the pop up message to turn off to recover potential screen residue issues - it’s normally close to the end of day so I let it wait until I turn off the TV to standby for the night. Depending on use you may see this message, so for the first few weeks to a month or so I’d let it do this when it asks, 20 minutes seem enough - it will tell you if it needs more time. So far the EVO screen is pure with no visible shadow/shape issues at 5% white levels that some folk with 8x6 TVs get.
… With any expensive TV I’d suggest you get a long warranty - Richer Sounds extended the 2 years from Philips to 5. Note, all warranties seem to try and get out of screen burn, so best to keep an eye on it. Search the Web or YouTube for 5% white OLED examples or screen burn for more info.

Would I wait for a 937, well if I still had my previous 9002 I might but you can’t keep waiting. I was happy enough with my four year old 9002, until I knew I‘d really see a difference with a 936 with its EVO. The EX doesn’t seem to be a quantum leap for my use, non-gaming. I doubt the current mostly streamed material I watch would benefit from it, even with the anticipated new Apple TV out, probably, this September.
 
I think @Need a PhD in TV has probably said enough for you by now…
… but I also say go with the 936, certainly for picture quality and ambilight.
I paid £2000 for it, but have had it since last October and still happy I did so - and I didn’t even connect the soundbar as it gets in the way of my AV System centre speaker. So for times when I don’t want a room full of sound, or the heat of the AVC during a heatwave, I had to buy a low profile one from Yamaha :-&

To add to your other questions…
… I don’t have any real issues with the TV now, there were a few sound issue with ARC/eARC but that was sorted after a month or few. I prefer the Atmos sound and maybe picture using a 4K Gen 2 Apple TV, well I did until a s/w update to it causes occasional massive clicks and pops so back using the inbuilt TV Apps for Netflix and Apple TV+.
… My TV is typically on for at least 5 hours a day with someone watching, longer at weekends and special items like Wimbledon in 4K HDR on the iPlayer, Glastonbury, probably some of the Commonwealth games next. I have the Enhanced local image protection on default as I don’t use it for gaming and it doesn’t get in the way if the football scoreline dims a bit. I don’t seem to suffer from HDR whole screen dimming issues as others do (maybe just 8x6 TVs) and after a couple of months I rarely get the pop up message to turn off to recover potential screen residue issues - it’s normally close to the end of day so I let it wait until I turn off the TV to standby for the night. Depending on use you may see this message, so for the first few weeks to a month or so I’d let it do this when it asks, 20 minutes seem enough - it will tell you if it needs more time. So far the EVO screen is pure with no visible shadow/shape issues at 5% white levels that some folk with 8x6 TVs get.
… With any expensive TV I’d suggest you get a long warranty - Richer Sounds extended the 2 years from Philips to 5. Note, all warranties seem to try and get out of screen burn, so best to keep an eye on it. Search the Web or YouTube for 5% white OLED examples or screen burn for more info.

Would I wait for a 937, well if I still had my previous 9002 I might but you can’t keep waiting. I was happy enough with my four year old 9002, until I knew I‘d really see a difference with a 936 with its EVO. The EX doesn’t seem to be a quantum leap for my use, non-gaming. I doubt the current mostly streamed material I watch would benefit from it, even with the anticipated new Apple TV out, probably, this September.
Thank you so much!! I'm getting the 906 without waiting then, if I wait I'll be able to buy 907 at the end of next year (so it can be the same price) but this time 908 will be coming out lol. So it's a loop and there's no reason to wait. Will update y'all when I receive my TV, thank you!! :) Is there any recommended calibrations and settings I must learn before using it ? @Need a PhD in TV @AdtAdt57
 
Thank you so much!! I'm getting the 906 without waiting then, if I wait I'll be able to buy 907 at the end of next year (so it can be the same price) but this time 908 will be coming out lol. So it's a loop and there's no reason to wait. Will update y'all when I receive my TV, thank you!! :) Is there any recommended calibrations and settings I must learn before using it ? @Need a PhD in TV @AdtAdt57

As far as calibrating goes, I would say experiment and see what looks good for you BUT...

Before you start changing anything, turn the light sensor off (Settings > Picture > Advanced > Contrast > Light sensor) so you can get a proper feeling for the brightness levels without the TV adjusting them automatically. For what it's worth, I have the light sensor turned off at all times anyway.

Re: your previous point on ambilight... For me, there is no issue at all with the response time or colour matching accuracy on the 936 (and I expect the update on xx7 models to be incremental). The ambilight showing white light when the image on screen was black was an issue for many, but this has been resolved now if you choose the [Natural] setting.

Enjoy your new TV!
 
Sorry to hear you're not enjoying your purchase presently.

I have the 936, but I'd imagine you'd still have the option in any picture mode (HDR, Dolby Vision etc.) to tweak the the Light Boost setting (Settings -> Picture -> Advanced -> Contrast). This may help with the pale HDR image you refer to (this, along with tweaking other picture settings of course).

Alternatively, you could exchange your Philips for an LG and pair that up with offerings from Govee or AmbiVision (search for "ambilight alternatives"). These will not be as elegant a solution as the built in ambilight of a Philips and will also require installation on your part, but may give you the chance to get the picture and ambilight effect you want.

No TV at any price point will give you everything you want but my personal feeling is that if you're doubting your purchase already, you'll likely not enjoy it further down the line either. If it were me, I'd exchange now while it's still an option for you.

Hope that helps.
I will bring back the 856, will purchase instead the 65OLEDG2, cheers.
 
Hi guys, how can I enter the service menu on OLED936 so I can check the usage hours, TV just got installed and I want to check it, urgent please
 

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