Although no official announcement has been made, Samsung has quietly added a new product to their 2011 lineup. The S23A700D is a more conventional looking but similarly performing alternative to the rather ostentatious S23A750D. However; we have been able to glean some information about this model from some kind Samsung representitives. The panel itself is identical to that of the S23A750D and is similarly specified with 23″ screen size, 1920 x 1080 resolution, 250 cd/m2 rated luminance, 2ms grey to grey response time and the all-important 120Hz refresh rate output. Samsung will also feature their unique Ultra Clear Panel screen coating rather than using a matte anti-glare surface for added vibrancy and clarity. Because Samsung are aiming for the complete out-of-the-box 3D experience they will also include a pair of SSG-3000GB (or similar) active shutter glasses and a copy of TriDef’s SyncMaster branded software for the sake of completeness.
Samsung has used a more conventional-looking chassis this time around (akin to the S23A300B with thinner bezels) and they’ve fitted the electronics of the monitor into the back of the screen itself rather than the base. Whilst this does make the monitor a little thicker it enables the more conventional styling and greater flexibility as far as inputs are concerned. Samsung has included a 60Hz-limited HDMI (for connection to non-PC external devices) and for 120Hz output on the PC – a Dual Link DVI port (missing from the SA750 series) instead of the more restrictive and less widely used DisplayPort. To keep the profile as slim as possible, without shifting electronics, Samsung will include an external power adaptor and fixed stand design as well as their LED backlight solution. Unfortunately that means that VESA mounting will not be an option for the SA700 series either.
The S23A700D is now available in the UK and EU at an RRP of around £300 with US availability expected shortly (US price TBC). Although nothing has been officially announced, larger members of the S700 series (i.e. the S27A700D) may be scheduled for released at a later date. More information as it comes to us and of course a review as soon as possible.