Sony Bravia KDL-22PX300 (PS2 TV)

Description

Introduction

Launching a PS2 product in late 2010 was quite remarkable. By then, the PS3 had been out since 2006 and, after a rocky start, had already built a dedicated fan base. Yet, Sony decided to take a different route. The PlayStation 2 TV, specifically the KDL-22PX300, featured a Sony Bravia 22-inch TV cleverly integrated into a base housing PS2 hardware.

Background

So, why did Sony choose to market a TV with a built-in PS2 over four years after the PS3’s release?

To understand this, we need to look back further. In 2010, Sony launched a refurbished PS2, the PS2 Slim, to revive sales. Technically, the PS2 continued to be sold until 2013, more than seven years after the PS3’s debut. However, while interest in the PS3 had shifted to Japan, the US, and Europe, the PS2 remained popular in emerging markets like Brazil and other parts of Latin America. Sony reportedly had an excess of PS2 hardware for the European PAL region, having anticipated a more gradual transition from the current to the next generation. To avoid writing off or discarding this surplus, Sony sought a creative solution.

Sony’s product developers devised a plan: repurpose the excess hardware into a TV-console hybrid. This move benefited both Sony’s television and gaming divisions. The result was the KDL-22PX300, a TV that appealed to a wide range of consumers. Its built-in DVD/CD player made it ideal for bedrooms, while the gaming console aspect suited game or playrooms. Its sleek design also made it a fitting addition to trendy, compact living rooms. At just 200 pounds, the PS2 TV was an attractive option, especially considering the vast PS2 game library.

The KDL-22PX300 wasn’t the first TV-console hybrid. Previous examples included the ‘Divers 2000’ with a built-in Dreamcast, the Sharp SF1 (SNES), and lesser-known models like the ‘B&O AV5’, ‘Videotronic POS360’, and the rare ‘Philips 21TCDI30’ with a built-in CD-i player. The KDL-22PX300 is most comparable to the Philips CD-i hybrid, as both TVs and consoles were produced by the same company, ensuring seamless integration. Additionally, both manufacturers used existing TV models that were also sold without a console, eliminating royalty costs and keeping production expenses low.

Specifications

The PS2 TV was a well-rounded package. The TV and PS2 were directly connected, with the PS2 serving as the TV’s stand, which meant wall mounting wasn’t an option. For its time, the TV had respectable specifications: a 22-inch screen, 1366×768 pixel resolution, and a 16:9 aspect ratio.

Notably, it offered numerous connection options. Besides Ethernet (available on both the TV and PS2), component, composite, VGA, and SCART, it boasted four HDMI ports! Even today, this is uncommon. All HDMI ports supported 1080p signals, although the screen resolution was only 720p. This allowed users to connect various peripherals, such as a PS3, Xbox 360, and older retro consoles, making it a versatile gaming TV at a reasonable price.

Availability

Upon its announcement, the PS2 TV garnered significant attention. At the end of 2010, various news sites eagerly previewed the new TV, sparking interest among potential buyers. Rumors circulated about its availability in Europe and the US. However, Sony itself gave the product launch minimal attention, issuing only a brief press release on their website. This reluctance was practical. As mentioned earlier, the TV was mainly intended to clear PS hardware stocks in Europe, limiting production to a small number of units. Consequently, it was launched exclusively in Europe in limited quantities, available only at select retailers. The stock quickly sold out, leading to consumer disappointment and transforming the TV into a future collector’s item.

The PS2 TV is rare, but a few units occasionally appear on eBay: PS2 TV Ebay