Sony PlayStation 5 is one of the most coveted and scarce next generation game consoles. However, to reveal all her talents, a number of manipulations will be required – from choosing cables, to setting up your TV and the set-top box itself. And also (yes, yes) the selection of a headset.
Here you have A step-by-step analysis of how to get the most out of the Sony PlayStation 5.
1. Determine if your TV supports 4K / 120Hz HDR
Even if there is an HDMI 2.1 port on the display (with a data transfer rate of up to 32 Mb / s), it may turn out that the device does not have a 120 Hz time base. Alas, for perfectly smooth gaming on the new console you need a 120Hz HDR TV – trust me, the game is worth the candle. The easiest way to check compatibility is to go to the Sony PlayStation 5 settings and check the video output. If 4K / 120Hz HDR is on, it’s okay. If not, then there is a reason to think about …
2. … checking if the correct input is selected on the TV
Today the new TV series from LG, Sony and Samsung (with a recently released soft update) provide 4K / 120Hz HDR operation. However, in some cases it is necessary to select the desired HDMI port that supports this gaming standard. Check the manual for a game input that accepts 120Hz video.
3. If you are planning to change TV – swing at the 8K display
In the future, Sony PlayStation 5 will receive 8K games and will be able to output such a signal. So, if today you are upgrading a video display device, you should choose from those devices that have a real 8K resolution. Quite a lot of such TVs have come out and are already coming out, and their prices are gradually decreasing.
4. Use a standard cable to connect Sony PlayStation 5, and if you need a longer length, choose from models with support for 8K resolution
Low-quality long cables may simply not work and give out a black screen. Don’t play the lottery – choose from certified branded models. And look forward to 8K resolution in the future. If the length permits, a regular HDMI cable from the set-top box will be an excellent choice.
5. Activate the expansion mode of parameters of signal reception at the HDMI input
Some TVs automatically turn on this mode when a compatible signal is input, and, for example, Samsung displays require manual adjustment of the correct HDMI input. Switch it to “extended” receive mode.
6. Activate the game mode of the picture on the TV and calibrate, starting from it
This is necessary, since (usually) only with this setting is the VFR specification activated – adjusting the frame rate depending on the complexity of the scene, which allows you to squeeze the maximum out of the console both in terms of scanning and in terms of image quality in the game.
7. Calibrate the HDR image using the built-in Sony PlayStation 5 tables
Everything is simple here – adjust the brightness and contrast until you get a borderline display of all characters on the screen. In this way, you will adjust the picture to the optimum in terms of working with halftones.
8. Finally, fine-tune the color of the TV and reduce the sharpness
When all the above steps are completed, you can do fine-tuning – switch the color rendition to warm mode, adjust the intensity of the palette, reduce the sharpness to the minimum values and turn off all noise reduction and dynamic contrast enhancement systems. This will create a reference picture.
9. Provide the front attachment with sufficient space for air intake.
Sony PlayStation 5 consumes a lot of energy, and the “stuffing” of the console can get very hot during operation. It makes no difference how you install the console – vertically or horizontally, but in terms of free space around everything should be clearly “according to the instructions”, otherwise overheating is possible.
10. To enjoy Tempest 3D Audio, please purchase Sony Pulse 3D headphones
Sony has developed its proprietary ‘Tempest’ 3D Audio surround format for an immersive gaming experience. For example, the recently released Sony PlayStation 5 exclusive “Returnal” uses this sound with might and main. Support for Tempest 3D Audio is only available for headphones with a Sony Pulse 3D headset, released specifically for the set-top box. It’s worth hunting for them – the model is also in short supply now, but believe me, the sound experience will radically improve.