My sony kdl52-ve5 just went off any idea what it could be.

Hi most LCD TV,s have a life span for picture and sound based on hours, this means if device exceeds limits possible malfunction of sound and picture quality will occur .this will require technical support and assistants. Components which could fail are power supply ,picture control chip or a rare possibility of breakage on PC board contanuaty supply.

Fault with the main power supply regulator board. Check and replace damaged component/s at its main power regulator [SMPS] section circuit. Contact any service technician. If you wish to get some details; check the site linked here. Surf the site with patience. Pull up older posts.
http://electronicshelponline.blogspot.com/
It will be best to replace the power supply regulator board as card basis rather than making "Surgery" to it; which usually will make loss for both money and time. Even though you can make it right, it will cost around an amount equal to the cost of a new board; including the cost of (spare parts + service charge) More to say, most of the spare parts to it will be difficult to get from open electronic spare part market. This is true to most of the flat panel TV power supply boards; irrespective of its brand and screen size.