On Panny's website they have just listed the PZ800 series along with the Warehouse Club models in 50" & 42" sizes which just seem to be the PZ80U series with an added PC Input on them.

These are Costco and Sam's Club models and maybe even Wal-Mart.

Chris

Yep, Your correct Chris & maybe even BJs or whoever else could buy them in quantity? I did notice that the Size & Weight is different from the PZ80U & you can't go by the pictures because if I remember right last year the pictures of the warehouse sets were wrong so maybe they are in one of the 2007 Panny shells/bezels & I hate to say it but if they have the football base & etc of the PX75/PX77/PZ77 I'd rather have that then the new "Frown Face" of the PZ80U or the "Lip Sticking Out" of the PZ85U.

I do hope this year though that somebody will tear apart these warehouse club models & see if the boards & everything else are the same & just because a board number is the "Same Number" doesn't mean that it's the same part & wasn't made in China or Korea compared to Panny's sets which might have boards made in Japan with better parts.

I know on those older "Tube" warehouse models that had parts in them made in Korea & a lot cheaper power supplies compared to their regular tv lines.

Can anybody tell me where to buy the C42FD18? It is the only 1080P plasma that will fit into the space that I have availabe (40.5" wide max). I don't know if I'd be willing to rip it apart just yet, though.

Thanks,

Todd.

Todd, I would just keep checking Costco & Sam's Club website's because they should be getting them in pretty soon or give your local store a call maybe they know exactly when there getting them in?

Costco in san jose just got them today 42" for 1299.99

any word yet on what the 50" will cost?

Got my 1080P 42" plasma panny at costco last night. 1299 OTD. Of course I will watch for a coupon coming up, too.

Can't wait to see the .1 inch gap on each side of the tv once it is in my armoire! There is a 46" model from, samsung I think, that was less than an inch too wide. That would have been sweet, but I'll take the panny plasma.

Todd, Can you look on the box or the back of the set & tell us where it was made. Mexico, China?

Also what does the set look like? Football Type Base, Square Base, Duck Feet Base, Frown Front Bezel, Dull Flat Finish & etc? Thanks & enjoy your new Panny.

I just relocated to southern NH, so I'm kinda still unpacking since we just closed on our new house last week, very busy, new job, yada yada, and TV time comes last. I don't even have my surround sound system hooked up yet, but at least I got FIOS installed! I haven't taken the panny out of the box yet, as I have a 300 lb Vega to get out of my cabinet and my wife will be no help as she weighs in at 98 lbs (I'm not complaining about that!). The other problem is that I wanted to just get it home from costco before they were gone, only three left when I bought mine. Time is my problem. Every time I get home from work my wife is running around the house with hardly anything on wiggling her booty in my face:eek:. That always is my first priority, next thing you know it's eleven PM! I guess I need to grab a neighbor this weekend to help get that 'ol top of the line of its time (1998) Sony outta there.

The base is square, the finish is matte. What is a frown bezel? I'll take a pic and post it as soon as I get it out of the box.

Later,
Todd.

The "Frown Bezel" is what some people have been calling the botton of the front with the speakers on each side of the PX80 & PZ80 models.

Also if you can, & you can check the box, Where Was It Made China, Mexico?

Congrats on your new house & NH is a pretty nice area of this country. You gotta love the NO SALES TAX or STATE INCOME TAX & "ALL" the state's should be like that.

Every time I get home from work my wife is running around the house with hardly anything on wiggling her booty in my face:eek:. That always is my first priority, next thing you know it's eleven PM!

I'll take a pic and post it as soon as I get it out of the box.Can't wait to see those pictures !!

And post some pics of the TV while you're at it :D

I'd like to hear the experience of others as well regarding this panel. We saw it at Costco today, and both my wife and I could definitely see the difference between it's picture and the picture on the Panasonic 720p plasma next to it.

Cheers,
Don W.

I'd like to hear the experience of others as well regarding this panel. We saw it at Costco today, and both my wife and I could definitely see the difference between it's picture and the picture on the Panasonic 720p plasma next to it. What difference did you see?

Better overall picture definition and clarity.

The "Frown Bezel" is what some people have been calling the botton of the front with the speakers on each side of the PX80 & PZ80 models.

Also if you can, & you can check the box, Where Was It Made China, Mexico?

Congrats on your new house & NH is a pretty nice area of this country. You gotta love the NO SALES TAX or STATE INCOME TAX & "ALL" the state's should be like that.
Hi Bill,

The TH-C42FD18's have arrived at the Washington, DC - area Costcos. I checked it out at the Baltimore store yesterday. It has a rectangular base and was made in May 2008. I searched all over the unit and it does not reveal the location where it was made. It was $1299.99. Main differences I could see from the Panny website when compared to the TH-42PZ80U is the FD has less contrast ratio ("up to 20,000:1" for FD vs. "Native 20,000:1, Dynamic: 1,000,000:1" for PZ), the FD has no Video Noise reduction (PZ does), and the FD has inputs for a PC (PZ doesn't). Oddly, the dimensions and weights are different. Not sure if those are errors or not. [I tried to post the link to the Panny comparison, but AVS won't let me because I have not posted enough times yet...]

Since I can get the PZ for the same price or less than the FD, I am opting for the PZ to get the higher contrast ratio and Video Noise Reduction. Not really interested in connecting my PC to it...

The FD specs page on the panny website sez that it has "Motion Pattern Noise Reduction".
Is this a different type of noise reduction?
We're considering buying from CC due to: increased warranty to 2 years, 90 day no hassle return, and of course points added to our membership which can translate to savings next year.

David JC, Thanks for the info & I'm surprised it doesn't say where it was made because by law it has too? but maybe if it's on the box that covers them? but I was pretty sure it also had to say it on the item itself?

Did you check the menu on the FD for the NR feature? or is that just from Panny's specs. on the their website? because I've seen a lot of screwups on website's from the manufactures themselves.

Just for the record, ALL of their North American market plasmas are assembled in Mexico, not China.

IIRC the Chinese-assembled models are only sold in Australia and in most parts of Asian-Pacific area.

Randy, That's how it used to be (And Maybe It Still Is?) but someone told me that the new "Warehouse" only models were now being made in the new Panny plant in China & that they had to be bought in Bluk Loads & I've been trying to find out if it's true or not.

It was one of those deals where the guy who told me got it from a guy who told him, so I really don't know wether to believe him or not.

Back of the box of my C42FD18 says assembled in mexico. I haven't looked at the unit itself yet for origin.

The PC input rocks on this model, now I can finally watch recorded HD and have it look original, instead of the silly upscaled version I had been watching on my Philips DVR. TMy Panny dvd-ram recorder looks quite good on the best setting, although the PC recording blows them all away, when it works.

Nice part for me is that I own all my equipment, and only pay $15 for cable and get at least 8 network channels in HD, along with three different methods to record that all work pretty well. Too bad about the trap on my line for the other QAM channels, but another 35 bucks just to watch some MMA on Spike and HGTV for the wife is not worth that price.

Did anybody else notice the game being broadcast in 1080p for the Celts big blowout last night. NO REALLY, HONEST IT WAS!

ok, you caught me, I'm a celts fan and it actually looked like 4320p to me!

Thanks tepete71, Mexico Built It Is so that clears that rumor up about them being built in China anyway.

What Game? Do you mean the Celtics showing some other guys how basketball should be played!

Randy, That's how it used to be (And Maybe It Still Is?) but someone told me that the new "Warehouse" only models were now being made in the new Panny plant in China & that they had to be bought in Bluk Loads & I've been trying to find out if it's true or not.

It was one of those deals where the guy who told me got it from a guy who told him, so I really don't know wether to believe him or not.I don't know how these rumors get started. The whole reason Panasonic invested millions of dollars to build their assembly plant in Mexico was to avoid the high cost of shipping plasma TVs via ocean-going freighters to the American continent from Asia. It's much cheaper to ship the various components in bulk to Mexico so they can use their cheap labor for final assembly as well as shipping to the whole continent via ground transportation.

This whole changeover apparently happened sometime in 2005. My 2005 TH-42PX50U was built in Japan in March of 2005, but my friend's 50PX50U (bought a few months after i bought mine) was built in Mexico (don't remember his build month but it was after mine).

Another rumor that floats around is that the models sold in the big wharehouse stores (Costco, Sams, etc) are something called "B-stock"; units that contain substandard components but this is also false. These units contain the exact same parts as the regular line.

Well, I've had my Philips 42ta648bx LCD for about a month now and I'm beginning to think I made a mistake by not going Plasma - especially after I saw this set at Costco. My LCD has a speaker problem so it's going back to the store soon but I am debating whether, once and for all, I should just exchange it for the same set or go with this Plasma set (or the 77u, though this is newer so I am thinking it would be superior). Can anyone share their opinion on my pending decision? How are the speakers on this set? Anything else I should be considering?

Purchased a TH-C42FD18 from Costco this weekend, and so far very happy with it. Working today to hook an older mac mini powerpc up via vga...hdmi would not work, but hdmi was great with a macbook pro pumping out 1080i.

It took me three years of watching my aquos lcd to finally admit plasma is better. The aquos has such a great picture, and plasma HAD BEEN so scary, so I waited and waited. The past year of plasma from panasonic has been so great, that I finally made the switch when they came out with a model that would fit my cabinet and be 1080P (for pc input).

Worlds different. Sports, action movies and most everything looks better to me on a 1080p plasma. I'm hung up on the pc input, as I mess around with pc's and imaging quite a bit. This is a great entry level panny model, probably competes with the top end, at least at this size range.

Try it, you'll like it. (and yes...I know 720p sports look so much better than 1080i, especially ABC sports).

Good luck!

I am now seeing the TH-C50FD18 (http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11292503&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eCat=BC|79|2341|3314|74670&N=4018655&Mo=1&No=0&Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&cat=74670&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1&lang=en-US&Sp=C&hierPath=79*2341*3314*74670*&topnav=) on the Costco website. I'm not very familiar with the concept of warehouse models, so I'd be interested in hearing what people think of this model versus the 800u.

The 800u is currently only $2130 on Amazon, which isn't that much more, but I would be much more interested in buying locally at Costco for easy returns (just in case).

Probably going to jump on the TH-C50FD18 this weekend. Happy 4th of July to me.

So does anyone think this set will be ok for playing a moderate amount (1.5-3 hours a day) of PS3 and XBox 360 Games? I've been reading up on the different ways to reduce the risk of burn In and I-R (break in disk, proper calibration of contrast/brightness, playing in moderation, rotating input types. etc). I am beginning to see that most people say not to worry too much about it due to increased lifespans to 60000+ hours . I also watch a fair amount of TV, DVD's Blu-Ray but now that games are finally getting up to speed with the next Gen consoles hardware capabilities, I feel that my gaming time may increase. This being said, I fear that Burn in would shorten this TV's life (goal is 5 years).
This TV fits my budget and a LCD with the same black level performance would cost much more and prohibit me from the experience. Also, I see that it dosen't have the "motion blur" like the LCD's next to it at costco, but the picture I see is not very impressive either in the warehouse. Currently I have a 30" CRT HDTV that's picture is hard to beat, but I now live in a bigger place and it looks tiny in my den so it's time to upgrade. That being said, I'd like to know if anyone who actually went through and bought this TV have any feedback on what their picture looks like in the living room? I know that you cannot trust the image you see on that shelf due to the warehouse lighting conditions, but I just want a little more reassurance on this specific set.
Any feedback on this TV would be greatly appriceated.

^^ I'm in the same boat. Don't stress gaming, get the plasma.

So does anyone think this set will be ok for playing a moderate amount (1.5-3 hours a day) of PS3 and XBox 360 Games? I've been reading up on the different ways to reduce the risk of burn In and I-R (break in disk, proper calibration of contrast/brightness, playing in moderation, rotating input types. etc). I am beginning to see that most people say not to worry too much about it due to increased lifespans to 60000+ hours . I also watch a fair amount of TV, DVD's Blu-Ray but now that games are finally getting up to speed with the next Gen consoles hardware capabilities, I feel that my gaming time may increase. This being said, I fear that Burn in would shorten this TV's life (goal is 5 years).
This TV fits my budget and a LCD with the same black level performance would cost much more and prohibit me from the experience. Also, I see that it dosen't have the "motion blur" like the LCD's next to it at costco, but the picture I see is not very impressive either in the warehouse. Currently I have a 30" CRT HDTV that's picture is hard to beat, but I now live in a bigger place and it looks tiny in my den so it's time to upgrade. That being said, I'd like to know if anyone who actually went through and bought this TV have any feedback on what their picture looks like in the living room? I know that you cannot trust the image you see on that shelf due to the warehouse lighting conditions, but I just want a little more reassurance on this specific set.
Any feedback on this TV would be greatly appriceated.


I am also looking in to getting this TV from Costco as well. I am also not happy with the way it looks in the lighting in the store. I know it has to look better than that. I would also like to see some pictures of the TH-C42FD18 in a living room if you would not mind. Thanks. I do a lot of gaming on my 360. I am a video game designer during the day at work and a gamer at night. ;) :)

Hi ,all.

I am thinking of pulling the trigger on the 50" from Costco.

I have a 50" TH50PX6U that I purchased from Costco that I have been quite pleased with until recently. It has developed a pinkish hue (similar to the way old CRT computer monitors would start to fail) over the last few weeks. I placed a call to Panasonic support and they said they could dispatch a technician to my house to diagnose the problem -- for $150.00--which could be applied to the cost of repair if I choose to have the set repaired.

I am grandfathered in on Costco's "unlimited" return policy for this set and have decided to return it.

I have read this thread and I am foncused as to what the TH-C50FD18 corresponds to in the regular Panasonic model nomenclature.

Any help/guidance is appreciated.

It's the 80u with a few more inputs, I believe. The weight is different between the models, not too sure about why that would be. I'd expect the build quality to be good but maybe a step slightly down from the 80u.

Yep, It's a PZ80U with an added PC Input. you can check the specs. on Panasonic's website.

Thx.

If it's true that this FD18 model is essentially a PZ80U, then the $1800 price tag isn't the killer deal I was thinking it was.

If it's true that this FD18 model is essentially a PZ80U, then the $1800 price tag isn't the killer deal I was thinking it was.

I was looking at the specs and thinking the same thing....
Maybe my upgrade will be delayed a bit.

Was looking forward to a 1080p set.

From Coctco's Website:
Panasonic 1080P
TH-C50FD18
TH-C42FD18
TH-46PZ85U

Panasonic 720P
TH-C50HD18
TH-C42HD18

It's not listed on their website now but 2 weeks ago they had the 50-PZ800U for so I would keep checking their website for brands & models.

Does anyone have an opinion on how the 42" 720P version of this Costco Panny compares to the Samsung 42A450 plasma? I can get the Samsung on sale for the same price that Costco sells the Panny, both are 42", and both are 720P. However, since Costco doesn't carry the Samsung, I can't compare them side by side.

If I was you I would go to BB, CC or Sears & compare the Samsung against the Panny PX80U because the picture on the Panny should be just about the same as the Costco model. Remember that BB, CC & Sears will usually match the warehouse model's price at Costco, Sam's Club & Wal-Mart if you push them.

Also try some of the Forum Sponsors because they can usually come in with some pretty good prices.

I just picked up the Th-C42FD18 from Costco

Picture is fantastic! Very happy with it so far.

But apparently it can't handle 1920x1080 from my ThinkPad 61p. I'll have to do more research.

Coscto aslo has the TH-50PE700U . But that is the old model from last year and they obviously aren't bringing in any new ones.

They also have the Pioneer Kumo PDP-5010FD for But I doubt the picture is that much better.

Thinking about getting the Panasonic TH-C42FD18 42 inch 1080 Plasma set at my local Costco store..is making me want to bite on this deal!

I heard its like the same thing as a PZ80U but with a PC input, if that is the case, how was the PZ80U, or better yet, anyone with experience, how is gaming on this TV?

I'm going to be using this mainly for gaming so I'll have to break it in real nice....

I play a ton of games that require timing (fighting games), so I hope the response time isn't worse than my current LCD TV (Sony XBR2 46 inch, with an 8ms response time)...

If anyone can answer, I'd appreciate it. The best way to test for lag is via rock band calibration or guitar hero 3.

I heard its like the same thing as a PZ80U but with a PC input, if that is the case, how was the PZ80U, or better yet, anyone with experience, how is gaming on this TV?.......If anyone can answer, I'd appreciate it. It should perform exactly like the PZ80U and there is a ton of current discussion from PZ80U owners in the dedicated PZ80U thread that should answer all your questions:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1000479

This is exactly why I've come here. My local Costco has the TH-50PE700U. Costco website has the TH-C50FD18 for the same price (incl S&H).

I can't decide which to get. I tried to compare the two by setting up my own spreadsheet. Nearest I can tell, the biggest differences are HDMI ports (2 on 700U, 3 on D18), contrast ratio (5K:1 on the 700U, 20K:1 on the D18), and built-in speakers (31 W and 55Hz-17kHZ on the 700U, 20W and 70Hz-17kHz on the D18).

Ideally, I'd like to compare side-by-side, but I don't have that opportunity.

Help me to decide. Does either have a better picture? Do those contrast ratios mean anything? Is one a newer model, and does that matter? Should I care about 2 vs. 3 HDMI?

Thanks.
Tom

The PE700 is Costco's version of the PZ700 model & both are 2007 models. I would say if your not going to use it with a Surround Sound Receiver & the TV will be in a Dimly Lit Room then I would go with the PE700. Otherwise I would go with the 2008 FD18 model.

Why can't you compare them side by side? your Costco doesn't have the new FD18 models in yet?

so I see the TH-50PZ800U got high ratings and at best buy. The saleman showed me a model called TH-50PZ80U I believe He said the sets are exactly the same except for the bezel so why pay all the extra money I know the 800u is THX certified, is it the same for the 80U?
I find it hard to believe the 2 sets are identical and to get a different bezel on the newer model its a $700 price difference.
Lastly I see the Panasonic [Model TH-C50FD18] at costco . How does it compare to these?
Any comments?

please do not post prices folks. MSRP only is allowed

thanks all

w

Wasn't meant to be for price shopping, just comparison between the models to differentiate.
sorry about that

The salesman doesn't know what he's talking about the PZ80 IS NOT a PZ800 in a different bezel. If you go to Panasonic's website you can compare all the models & features including the one that Costco has which is really a PZ80 with an added PC Input. As for price check with some of the Forum Sponsors because they can do "A LOT" better than the price that Best Buy gave you.

If you can afford it I would go with the PZ800 that has the "THX" Picture Setting & it's the only model in Panasonic's 2008 line up that has "THX" which has been getting Great Revievs. For reviews on the Panny models go to cnet.com

so I see the TH-50PZ800U got high ratings and at best buy. The saleman showed me a model called TH-50PZ80U I believe He said the sets are exactly the same except for the bezel so why pay all the extra money I know the 800u is THX certified, is it the same for the 80U? I find it hard to believe the 2 sets are identical and to get a different bezel on the newer model its a $700 price difference. Lastly I see the Panasonic [Model TH-C50FD18] at costco . How does it compare to these? Any comments?The Best Buy guy is wrong as usual - the PZ800U has a higher contrast ratio and has more shades of gradation than the PZ80U does so it will perform better. The PZ80U is their entry level 1080p set, while the PZ800U is a high-end model.

The Costco CF50FD18 seems to be a variation of the PZ80U (same cabinet style) but with a PC input added like on the PZ85U.

The PE700 is Costco's version of the PZ700 model & both are 2007 models. I would say if your not going to use it with a Surround Sound Receiver & the TV will be in a Dimly Lit Room then I would go with the PE700. Otherwise I would go with the 2008 FD18 model.

Why can't you compare them side by side? your Costco doesn't have the new FD18 models in yet?

That's correct. My store only has the PE700.
I watch regular programming with the TV speakers, but I watch movies and play games using a surround sound receiver. The room is brightly lit. I really appreciate the recommendation. Are you saying the anti-glare effects on the FD18 are superior to the PE700?

costco's website has the fd18 and my local store has it in the warehouse

The Anti-Reflective coating on "ALL" Panny models this year is the same & slightly better than the PE700. When it comes to a bright room the 2008 models have a much higher Contrast Ratio compared to the PE700 which is only 5,000 to 1 so the new models are going to be a lot brighter. The whites are whiter & the blacks are blacker also on the new Panny's.

I was faced with the same delima when I was buying my daughter a 42" Panny for her bedroom & it was go with a new 2008 Panny or the Costco TH-42PZ700U & in the end I went with the PZ700 because it was going to be in a dimly lit bedroom & the Sound Quality of the PZ700 was leaps & bounds better than any lower priced Panny model.

As I said above if it was me I would go with the PZ800 (Costco had them on their website a few weeks back) but only you can decide if the PZ800 is worth the extra money.

Maybe Randy will chime in here because he has a lot more knowledge on Panny TVs than I do but I just love the picture on my neighbor's 50" PZ700 & was one of the reasons I went with my daughter's 42" but his is also in a dark family room setting.

When I was deciding on my daughter's I knew she would not be using a Suround Receiver so I wanted either the PZ700 or the PZ800 & I just could'nt justify paying at the time $900 more for a 42" PZ800 especially for a bedroom set that was going to be used for casual viewing.

I'll add that from comparing the new Panny PZ80 & PZ85 models with last year's PZ700 model that the ones in the store that I saw & fooled around with seemed to be a lot "grainer" than the PZ700's picture which to me was a lot smoother. It may have just been the store feeds or that the PZ700 does have a better video processor in it?

I have TH-42PZ700U (1) purchased from Costco about 8 months ago.

I just picked up a TH-C42FD18 (2) from Costco a few days ago.

I have Dish Network HD DVRs feeding into the 2 TVs. (1) has a ViP722 and (2) has the ViP612.

After some switching around of different DVRs feeding (1) and (2), I've determined that (1) has superior picture quality over (2) irrespective of the DVR feeding it. I also checked with my DVD player: (1) trumps (2) no matter what.

When I first picked up (2), I had assumed it was exactly the same as (1) but it is not: speakers are in different spots, the remotes are slightly different, part numbers (ha!), and even the adjustments for brightness, picture, etc. do not match and look very different if I try to match them.

Anyone have any experience with this? I'm going to contact Panasonic Concierge service but they are closed right now so some web searching led me here and so I thought I'd make my first post.

Cheers!

I have TH-42PZ700U (1) purchased from Costco about 8 months ago. I just picked up a TH-C42FD18 (2) from Costco a few days ago.

When I first picked up (2), I had assumed it was exactly the same as (1) but it is not: speakers are in different spots, the remotes are slightly different, part numbers (ha!), and even the adjustments for brightness, picture, etc. do not match and look very different if I try to match them.

Anyone have any experience with this? I'm going to contact Panasonic Concierge service but they are closed right now so some web searching led me here and so I thought I'd make my first post.Heh, you need to get better at searching for your info :D These two TVs couldn't be more different. The TH-C42FD18 is a completely different model than the TH-42PZ700U. The 42PZ700U is an old 2007 model and debuted well over a year ago and has the older 10th generation plasma panel. Mine just turned 1 year old today.

The C42FD18 is a new 2008 model and is internally identical to the new 42PZ80U. It has the new 11th generation plasma panel which has a higher contrast ratio and is brighter. This has been discussed a lot in at least a few threads here. And as you noticed the menus are all new on this years models - there is no way to match your new TV to the old one because the setting scales are completely different. You should be able to get the newer TV to look better than the old one, but you'll have to do it by eye and not bother trying to match the numerical settings - that just won't work.

Some people like the picture quality of the older darker PZ700U, while others prefer the picture quality of the newer blacker brighter PZ80U (aka C42FD18).

Panasonic concierge will probably have no idea about the differences of these two models - they'll probably read something from their script to confuse you and get you off the phone. These folks really don't know what they're talking about when you call.

Thanks for the feedback, Randy. I wonder if anyone out there could share some of their settings for the C42FD18? :D

I guess I'll play with it for a bit and see if I can improve it. I wonder if any "professional" adjustment is needed? Any advice there?

Oh, and I'll work better on my searching! :D

Thanks for the feedback, Randy. I wonder if anyone out there could share some of their settings for the C42FD18? :DThere's probably not a lot of C42FD18 owners here, but there are tons of PZ80U owners in the big "PZ80U/PZ85U Owners Thread" stickied at the top of this forum and lots of talk about settings. The PZ85U has a higher contrast ratio than the PZ80U so make sure you stick with PZ80U posts only when it comes to settings (PZ85U settings will be different). You can do a search of that particular thread using keywords like "setting" or "brightness" or "tint" to bring up only the posts that contain people's settings.

I guess I'll play with it for a bit and see if I can improve it. I wonder if any "professional" adjustment is needed? Any advice there?It's probably not worth the high cost to get this TV ISF Calibrated (upwards of $400). Once you get over 200 hours on the panel, then you can start to get serious about properly adjusting it yourself with one of the commercially available calibration disks etc.

Funny thing (perhaps not to the vets here!), but the set is actually looking better after having been on/playing for a while (most of the weekend thus far).

Costco gives us 90 days for nomussnofuss returns so I'm going to keeping burning the set in and then we'll see how it looks.

Thanks for helping out this newb. :)

Funny thing (perhaps not to the vets here!), but the set is actually looking better after having been on/playing for a while (most of the weekend thus far).Actually my older PX50U and newer PZ700U both seemed to look better as i got more and more hours on them during the first week or so. Keep fiddling with the settings - write them all down then as you fine-tune it, cross an old setting out and write in the new setting next to it so you can remember which way you're going with each successive change. And if you accidentally reset your settings to factory default values you can quickly get the TV back to where you last had it. FWIW, professional ISF calibrators will not calibrate a new plasma TV until it has at least a few hundred hours on the panel. Just play with it for now and get to know it, you can get serious about fine-tuning it later :)

I just picked my C42FD18 up tonight at Costco, it was $100.00 off. I haven't opened the box yet, so I can't tell you how it looks, but my back hurts from carrying it up the stairs!!!

Now I just have to research the break-in period info, arrrrgh!

Yep, that was the deal I got from Costco.

Oh, the Panasonic Concierge contacted me (via email) and suggested I place the TVs side by side and make their settings the same! :ROFLMAO:

Okay, so much for that "service"!! :D

. . . Oh, the Panasonic Concierge contacted me (via email) and suggested I place the TVs side by side and make their settings the same! :ROFLMAO:

Okay, so much for that "service"!! :DWhat did i tell ya! They're clueless about the products they sell. I don't know why Panasonic even has phone reps - they just confuse the customers even more :D

Does anyone have an opinion on how the 42" 720P version of this Costco Panny compares to the Samsung 42A450 plasma? I can get the Samsung on sale for the same price that Costco sells the Panny, both are 42", and both are 720P. However, since Costco doesn't carry the Samsung, I can't compare them side by side.

I would also like to hear an opinion on the TH-C42HD18 720p plasma. In addition does anyone know if this TV has an option for gray letterboxing and pillarboxing as I am going to be viewing a lot of 4:3 content and am pretty worried about uneven phosphor wear.

Edit: I found the manual online and, in case anyone else is interested in this, the TH-C42HD18 can display gray letterboxing bars. It seems as if it can also accept a signal from a DVI to HDMI cable but the details are very scarce. Does anyone know if that TV can accept a computer signal via DVI to HDMI?

Does anyone know of any other codes for the TH-C50HD18? The ones in the remote manual do not work...

I'd love to hear people's thoughts on the TH-C50FD18. Is the anti-glare a problem? Any buzzing from the back? And most importantly, how's the image quality?

I'd love to hear people's thoughts on the TH-C50FD18. Is the anti-glare a problem? Any buzzing from the back? And most importantly, how's the image quality?The FD18 does not have Anti-Glare (that was discontinued last year), instead it has a new Anti-Reflective screen that works pretty good and still maintains good PQ.

All TVs buzz a little if you stick your head behind it, and the CF18D should not be any different. You should not be able to hear any buzzing beyond say 2-3 feet.

Image quality on the 1080p Panasonics is very good. Go to various stores and look at the PZ80U - the CF18D will look identical, and even better in your home.

I don't see this on Costco's web site anymore. Anyone know what is going on?

there's still lots of these units at your local costco as well as on the website. going through break-in right now courtesy of the PZ80u break-in FAQ and catching up on TiVo'ed American Chopper and some transcoded MKV movies. This is a major upgrade from a WEGA KV-34HS420, which itself is still a solid set. More updates to come as I'll get a few hours in of daytime viewing.

I know that the TH-C42FD18 is basically just the Z80 with a VGA port, however I notice that the contrast ratio is listed as "up to 20,000" on the Costco model while the Z80 is just listed as "20,000." This is true on both Costco's site and Panasonic's. Does this represent an actual difference between the two sets, or is it just some weird way of listing things?

They're both exactly the same. I think Costco's wording of it is actually more correct.

Hey,
Hope this is the right forum....Just wondering if anyone has used this Plasma TV with the AVF Nexus Plasma/LCD Multi Position Dual Arm FP1004PB-A? It seems like anyway you mount it, the TV panel of the wall mount unit, would cover the Input panels... Just was wondering if anyone else came across this...

The features list on the box of my 42FD18 lists 20000:1 static and 1000000:1 dynamic contrast ratios, while panny's website omits the dynamic spec altogether. In a call to the maker's Customer dis-Service before buying, and before I noticed the box, the rep said it did not feature the million to one at all, and (other than the PC in) that was the main difference (wrong, no difference in contrast ratios anyway) between it and the 80U. By the way, anyone shopping a new set should just stop driving yourself nuts with all the comparisons and get this or the 42HD (or the 50FD18 if you need a 50"; you'll probably want 1080) because these sets' pictures absolutely rock for the money.
If you don't care about the PC in nor Costco's 2 year warranty, then get any of the the 80U's and save some $$.

I just got a mailer from Costco with $200 off (and free S&H if bought online) on the 50 incher from 10/9-10/28 (apparently not a coupon) which would make it the cheapest way to get into the latest-gen big pannys right now (no bad with costco's no-hassle buyer protection/warranty)

I had returned a Vizio 42" xvt to Costco, while at the return counter my friend spotted the Viera. I could not believe the price and had a great surprise at the check out. A $100 coupon discount. I never had that happen before and thought the cashier made an error.

I have the Viera Panny TH-C42FD18 for over a week. An other post I quote "said the pq rocks".
To say the least, the pq is spectacular !
At first, I viewed with the factory settings out of the box. but tweaked the color and tint for better flesh tones....... the pq was excellent. I have reduced brightness and contrast setttings for the break in period. The picture is darker but still very acceptable.
Another post mentions letterbox with a gray background setting. I will have to refer to the manual for that. BTW with the exception of identifying a few r/c keys, I have yet had to refer to the manual.

I never would have thought I could purchase a 42" 1080p plasma for under $1k. Also this tv is grouped as entry level. IMHO, that's like calling a Lexus a Chevy !
Anyone looking for a great 1080P plasma at a super price should consider this tv.

First post here.....I just couldn't wait any longer and pulled the trigger on this panel when Costco dropped the price today $200 on this model. I ran right over at 10am to get one before they sell out, with the local store having only 11 of these panels in stock this past Tuesday.

I've researched extensively for the last month, and was following the PZ80/85 thread pretty closely. Who knows how this set will turn out but I must say it is a popular set and appears to have a minimum of gripes with chronic factory issues.

I just couldn't resist and picked up the Phillips 1000 watt surround sound system to go with it on my way out the door. The price just seemed fair for the features involved. The Costco t.v. guy who has seen me analyzing sets for the past few weeks highly recommended the Phillips system and he wasn't trying to sell me one since I already had it on the cart.

Now to wait until Tuesday to hook everything up. It's color time in Michigan and my wife and I had a long planned northern trip on the calender which we just can't miss.

I already have a ISF trained calibrator waiting to head on over after the 100 hour break-in period to do his magic with the colors. He's researched the units and is all set to go.

First post here.....I just couldn't wait any longer and pulled the trigger on this panel when Costco dropped the price today $200 on this model.

I'm assuming they only dropped the price on the 50 in. model, right? I'm pretty close to pulling the trigger on the 42 in. model, so if they dropped the price on it too, then that baby is mine.

I just bought the 80U and it cost me more than the FD18 by two hundred. Pardon my ignorance, but should I be upset and go through the exchange process? Thanks for the advice.

I'm assuming they only dropped the price on the 50 in. model, right? I'm pretty close to pulling the trigger on the 42 in. model, so if they dropped the price on it too, then that baby is mine.

Better head to the store. I was in Costco today and it's down to $899.99 via a Manufacturer's Mail in Rebate. The MIR is effective until 10/31.

teacher77, If I was you I would check & see if the place where you bought it will match Costco's price because a lot of stores will & especially if their going to get an "Open Box" TV back.

Are you saying they dropped the price $200 PLUS giving the $300 instant rebate advertised on Costco.com? So $1100 for the TH-C50FD18?

First post here.....I just couldn't wait any longer and pulled the trigger on this panel when Costco dropped the price today $200 on this model. I ran right over at 10am to get one before they sell out

Jimbos50,
Are you stating the Viera Panny TH-C42FD18 has been lowered by $200 ?
Or are you referring to the 50" Viera?
If it is the 42" I possibly have a price match coming form Costco.:)

Thanks for the possible thumbs up!

Hello everyone, I have owned my TH-C42FD18 for about 1 month and absolutly love it! But now i am worried that my contrast ratio is only 20,000 to 1. I don't have my box anymore but faintly remember seeing 1,000,000 to 1 dynamic contrast ratio on it. From reading the discussion boards, it seems the panasonic reps are ignorant and dont know either:confused:
So my questions are simply these:
1)Does my TH-C42FD18 have a 1,000,000 to 1 dynamic contrast ratio?

2)If i paid $1009.99 at costco, do i just bring in my receipt and receive the difference? How many days do i have to do this?

Thanks everyone!!

Derek:)

Sorry for the slow reply, i'm an afternoon shifter......I wasn't sure if talking actual price on this site was accepted.


The Costco list price has been $1699 for the 50 inch TH-C50FD18. They had a $100 manufacturers price drop on it for a little while, so it was $1599. I had got a sort of coupon but it wasn't really a coupon in their monthly mailing for $200 off starting 10/09. I had talked to the service desk on 10/07 and they said the $100 buck deal was being dropped and it even said that on the price in the store so I was figuring $1499 this morning, but the web-site said the total discount was now $300 bucks off, for a price of $1399. Of course I presented the non-coupon trying to get another $200 bucks off but that was a no go.

I couldn't pass it up. $1399, and $196 for a Phillips 1000watt 6 speaker DVD surround system.

I realize there's much nicer stuff out there but this hit my price point, and I really wanted a 50 incher. Now I wish I wasn't heading up north tomorrow night for 4 days of wine drinking, camp fires, and color touring so I could stay home and play around.




TH3----I believe it was just the 50 that had the $200 price drop. The web-site is showing the 42 at $1099.

Okay, we're getting to the same end point through different routes. The web site is currently showing $1399 for the TH-C50FD18 ($1699-$300 instant rebate)...and that includes shipping. I just picked up a 42" 720P 2 weeks ago and am very happy. Can't wait to get the bigger 1080P version and move the 42" to the bedroom.

Okay, we're getting to the same end point through different routes. The web site is currently showing $1399 for the TH-C50FD18 ($1699-$300 instant rebate)...and that includes shipping. I just picked up a 42" 720P 2 weeks ago and am very happy. Can't wait to get the bigger 1080P version and move the 42" to the bedroom.


I'm wondering why the big Costco/Panasonic push to get rid of the 50's? Overstocked? New models coming out soon? Larger sets?

Don't know but I'm definitely taking advantage of it. I figure I've got 90 days to keep my eye on them in case something better comes along. I think I'm pretty much limited to 50" in the space I have though.

Don't know but I'm definitely taking advantage of it. I figure I've got 90 days to keep my eye on them in case something better comes along. I think I'm pretty much limited to 50" in the space I have though.

Cool, go for it....I was really worried about store quantities which caused my rushing down there. I really believe with this digital changeover coming, any good deals on flat panels,is going to be sucked up extra fast by people getting of non digital sets. Especially bottom scroungers types such as myself.

TH3----I believe it was just the 50 that had the $200 price drop. The web-site is showing the 42 at $1099.
Yes, but I went into a Costco store and they had it down to 899.99. This is a new deal that they just started.

A few things to note about these deals (including the C50):

You're REALLY better off buying the C42 in a Costco store. At least here in CT (Waterbury, CT to be exact), you get a Manufacturer's INSTANT (not mail in) rebate for $200 off the price of $1,099. I have a picture of the price on my cell phone, but unfortunately I can't post it right now. Also, if you look at the web site, on TOP of the $1,099 you have to pay $99.99 for S&H., so essentially you're paying over $1,200 for this from Costco.com

The C50, as of yesterday in a Costco store, is $1,399.99, as well as online. Also, if you order it online, you'll see that you get FREE shipping.

I'm VERY tempted to pick up the C50. Thing is I wanted to wait a little longer to be closer to Xmas and when I moved into my new apartment. Also, my getting married and my house potentially NOT selling have added a few unwanted limitations to my budget..

So my questions are simply these:
1)Does my TH-C42FD18 have a 1,000,000 to 1 dynamic contrast ratio?


2)If i paid $1009.99 at costco, do i just bring in my receipt and receive the difference? How many days do i have to do this?

Thanks everyone!!

Derek:)

1}If you read my earlier post I said the cashier deducted $100 off the above price when I paid for the tv. Thanks for the thumb's up Dave ,


* Just read davevandam's post [above thi post]......$200 off ! I'm going today for my additional $100 !

2}Costco will allow 30 days for what the refer to as a price match.They will only refund $$$ when they lower the price on on items in their warehouses....they will not match a lower price with [i.e, NewEgg, Tiger, etc.][ So bring in your receipt and receive the 100 bucks credit.

So my questions are simply these:
1)Does my TH-C42FD18 have a 1,000,000 to 1 dynamic contrast ratio?


2)If i paid $1009.99 at costco, do i just bring in my receipt and receive the difference? How many days do i have to do this?

Thanks everyone!!

Derek:)

1}If you read my earlier post I said the cashier deducted $100 off the above price when I paid for the tv.

2}Costco will allow 30 days for what the refer to as a price match.They will only refund $$$ when they lower the price on on items in their warehouses....they will not match a lower price with [i.e, NewEgg, Tiger, etc.][ So bring in your receipt and receive the 100 bucks credit.

I just read davevandam's post above. I am going in today to get my additional 100 buks credit ! Thanks davevandam .:)

1}If you read my earlier post I said the cashier deducted $100 off the above price when I paid for the tv.

2}Costco will allow 30 days for what the refer to as a price match.They will only refund $$$ when they lower the price on on items in their warehouses....they will not match a lower price with [i.e, NewEgg, Tiger, etc.][ So bring in your receipt and receive the 100 bucks credit.

I just read davevandam's post above. I am going in today to get my additional 100 buks credit ! Thanks davevandam .:)
:cool: Nice to know that my visit to Costco wasn't all for Eggs, Honey, and Olive Oil.

2}Costco will allow 30 days for what the refer to as a price match.They will only refund $$$ when they lower the price on on items in their warehouses....they will not match a lower price with [i.e, NewEgg, Tiger, etc.][ So bring in your receipt and receive the 100 bucks credit.



I bought the TH-C50FD18 two weeks ago for $1599 ($1699 less the $100 discount then in effect). When I saw they lowered price yesterday by another $200, I went straight to Costco and they credited $200 to my American Express card. :)

I bought the TH-C50FD18 two weeks ago for $1599 ($1699 less the $100 discount then in effect). When I saw they lowered price yesterday by another $200, I went straight to Costco and they credited $200 to my American Express card. :)
Would you recommend the television?

Would you recommend the television?

Yes, we absolutely love it. It replaced a 5-year old 42" Sony rear projection LCD. With Costco's liberal 90-day return policy and an in-store price of $1400 plus tax, you can't go wrong by taking it home for a test drive.

Thanks everyone for clearing up the price drop on the 42' plasma, will be going to Costco today to receive the $100 price drop.

Does anyone know or still have the PLasma's box that states 1,000,000 to 1 contrast ratio and native 20,000 to 1????

Thanks!
Derek

Yes, we absolutely love it. It replaced a 5-year old 42" Sony rear projection LCD. With Costco's liberal 90-day return policy and an in-store price of $1400 plus tax, you can't go wrong by taking it home for a test drive.

Yeah I need a new "Main" television. My current Samsung 3082WHX 30" HD CRT was rather impressive when I got it over 2 years ago, but now the big bulky setup is getting a little long in the tooth. The lack of motion blur was definitely a nice thing to have, but the discoloration on the corners and lack of a fully "straight" picture wore on me over time. It's time to move the main one into the bedroom and finally have a more modern television, or at least one based on technology that is still being USED.. :p

I'm replacing a 27 inch 10 year year old dinosaur, you know days of plug it in, hook up the cable wire and you good to go. I'm holding my breath and a bit apprehensive about this new tv.

I never realized there was so much to it with having to worry about burn in, aspect,calibrating, etc.etc.etc, until I started researching for this set.

I'm replacing a 27 inch 10 year year old dinosaur, you know days of plug it in, hook up the cable wire and you good to go. I'm holding my breath and a bit apprehensive about this new tv.

I never realized there was so much to it with having to worry about burn in, aspect,calibrating, etc.etc.etc, until I started researching for this set.

Yeah I was set on getting a 120hz LCD after I saw it in CC, until I posted about it on another forum and people basically said, "You're better off with a Plasma instead of 120hz LCD" and then I started doing research on the Plasmas and read all about the IR/Burn-in, calibrating, etc and my head started to spin. My favorite is the "For the first 100 hours, run a program that flashes a bunch of full screen color images over and over." I guess I'll cross that bridge when (if) I come to it.

I have owned my TH-C42FD18 for about 1 month and absolutly love it! But now i am worried that my contrast ratio is only 20,000 to 1. I don't have my box anymore but faintly remember seeing 1,000,000 to 1 dynamic contrast ratio on it. From reading the discussion boards, it seems the panasonic reps are ignorant and dont know either. So my questions are simply these: Does my TH-C42FD18 have a 1,000,000 to 1 dynamic contrast ratio?It has the exact same 20,000:1 contrast ratio as the TH-42PZ80U since it uses the exact same internals. Whatever dynamic ratio that corresponds to doesn't matter, it is what it is. If you want a better contrast ratio, spend the extra dollars to upgrade to a PZ85U or PZ800U or PZZ850U, or better yet, a Kuro :)

I'm replacing a 27 inch 10 year year old dinosaur, you know days of plug it in, hook up the cable wire and you good to go. I'm holding my breath and a bit apprehensive about this new tv.

I never realized there was so much to it with having to worry about burn in, aspect,calibrating, etc.etc.etc, until I started researching for this set.I just went through this with my brother-in-law; he was scared to make the jump to plasma but he finally caved and bought a TH-42PX80U to replace his beloved old 27" Sony analog tube TV. Once i started going through the menus he saw that aside from a few extra settings that his tube didn't have, there's not much more to using and adjusting the plasma than his old tube TV and he realized he was scared for nothing and should have bought the TV a long time ago. I did advise him to actively use the ASPECT key to avoid black bars as much as possible but otherwise he just uses the TV just like he did with the old tube. He absolutely loves it, and it blows the old tube away on all sources. And it's not even a 1080p set like the Costco model!

1}If you read my earlier post I said the cashier deducted $100 off the above price when I paid for the tv.

2}Costco will allow 30 days for what the refer to as a price match.They will only refund $$$ when they lower the price on on items in their warehouses....they will not match a lower price with [i.e, NewEgg, Tiger, etc.][ So bring in your receipt and receive the 100 bucks credit.

I just read davevandam's post above. I am going in today to get my additional 100 buks credit ! Thanks davevandam .:)

I have the Panasconic 42" 1080p viera for 2 weeks. The day I bought it I received a 100 dollar discount when I checked out.
After reading about the additional 100 dollar discount here today, I went to Costco to see if I could get it.
The CSR was very nice but told me it was a manufacturers discount, and not a Costco price drop. Therefore she could only give me a $100 store credit.
I suggested to her maybe I should return the set for a credit, and re-purchase it. She was exceptionally nice and said she'd save me that trouble, by refunding to my cc, my original purchase price, then using my same cc re-purchase the Panny at the lower price.
You can't beat Costco for that unbelievable customer service :D

It feels good to be the bearer of GOOD news once in a while.:)

I just went through this with my brother-in-law; he was scared to make the jump to plasma but he finally caved and bought a TH-42PX80U to replace his beloved old 27" Sony analog tube TV. Once i started going through the menus he saw that aside from a few extra settings that his tube didn't have, there's not much more to using and adjusting the plasma than his old tube TV and he realized he was scared for nothing and should have bought the TV a long time ago. I did advise him to actively use the ASPECT key to avoid black bars as much as possible but otherwise he just uses the TV just like he did with the old tube. He absolutely loves it, and it blows the old tube away on all sources. And it's not even a 1080p set like the Costco model!



LOL, you read these boards and it's like "oh my word, what am I getting into?".....Your right, we all can adapt to change, and at 50, patience has set in to figure out most anything. Change is good.....Heck, I just dropped my landline with the same phone number I've had for 30 years and went just cell. Now that took some serious negotiating with the old girl.

I have the Panasconic 42" 1080p viera for 2 weeks. The day I bought it I received a 100 dollar discount when I checked out.
After reading about the additional 100 dollar discount here today, I went to Costco to see if I could get it.
The CSR was very nice but told me it was a manufacturers discount, and not a Costco price drop. Therefore she could only give me a $100 store credit.
I suggested to her maybe I should return the set for a credit, and re-purchase it. She was exceptionally nice and said she'd save me that trouble, by refunding to my cc, my original purchase price, then using my same cc re-purchase the Panny at the lower price.
You can't beat Costco for that unbelievable customer service :D


Good for you, It just doesn't make sense for them to have to dink around with the actual return then just make the paper adjustment. It saves Costco moocho money in the long run.

to Jombos50 and davevandam, many thanks for contributing to this forum.
My Panny Viera THC42FD is one super investment. It truly "ROCKS" !
I also would highly recommend it .

Ok everyone, i spoke to a tech over at panny and he said that this model does in fact have a dynamic contrast ratio of 1,000,000 to 1 and a native of 20,000 to 1. The website is being fixed as we speak to show that misconception. Thanks Randy for you're help earlier on the other models with the natve 30,000 to 1 contrast ratio. Im not sure if I actually need it because this model is one heck of a deal. Went to costco today and received the 899.99 special with no hassel at all. Super friendly people over there and they even said i have a full 90days(even without the box) to return it for any reason what-so-ever.
This TV is great, highly reccommend it to any HD viewer or XBOX360/PS3 gamer.
Enjoy!
Derek:D

Ok everyone, i spoke to a tech over at panny and he said that this model does in fact have a dynamic contrast ratio of 1,000,000 to 1 and a native of 20,000 to 1. The website is being fixed as we speak to show that misconception. Derek:D

Derek,
You claim that you were informed by a Panasonic tech rep that the c/r for the Panny Viera 42fd18 is 20,000:1 Native and 1,000,000:1 Dynamic per . You also were informed that corrections were being made on their web site.

Today I visited the web site and the c/r remains at 20,000:1.
Did individual you communicated with, give you a time frame when the correction will appear ?

Derek,
You claim that you were informed by a Panasonic tech rep that the c/r for the Panny Viera 42fd18 is 20,000:1 Native and 1,000,000:1 Dynamic per . You also were informed that corrections were being made on their web site.

Today I visited the web site and the c/r remains at 20,000:1.
Did individual you communicated with, give you a time frame when the correction will appear ?

No i am sorry he did not, but i'm not holding my breath if you know what im saying. It will probably take a week or two, but either way you can go to the website and email a personal rep as well. The box says its 1,000,000 to 1 and if it was a typo, they would have a major law suite on there hands. So no need to worry, its a great TV, keep it. :)

I have a credit for $1100 coming to me from Costco for returning a Vizio set that is slowly dying. So I'm trying to capitalize on this buy getting another costco set. The extra 2 years warranty doesn't hurt either. The TH-C50FD18 is on the contendors list. It has an excellent price, even prior to my credit.

I'm trying to guage how much better the higher end Panasonic's like the TH-50PZ85U/TH-50PZ800U/TH-50PZ850U are compared to this set. Those prices are all obviously higher, but I'm willing to go up to the price the PZ850U offers if buying online, assuming there's really something worth getting in these 3 other models. I spend a couple grand a year at costco anyway, so my credit won't go to waste.

Derek,
You claim that you were informed by a Panasonic tech rep that the c/r for the Panny Viera 42fd18 is 20,000:1 Native and 1,000,000:1 Dynamic per . You also were informed that corrections were being made on their web site. Today I visited the web site and the c/r remains at 20,000:1. Did individual you communicated with, give you a time frame when the correction will appear ?What needs to be corrected on the Panasonic website? The PZ80U and C42FD both have a 20,000:1 contrast ratio and it has always said so on their website. Am i missing something?

Randy the panasonic rep said that the website techs are fixing the website to show 1,000,000 to 1 dynamic contrast ratio. It currently only shows 20,000 to 1 native contrast.
Since we're on the subject of contrast ratio's again, do you really think the upgrade to 30,000 to one really makes a big noticable difference??
And on these upgraded models are there any other fancy features i should know about??
Thanks Randy
Derek

Hello,

I just picked up the TH-C50FD18 and have Verizon coming this week to install Fios.

Can anyone tell me which cables I will need for this plasma and where to buy them? I will be using a new HD Tivo box, an old Marantz SR8000 receiver, and a base model Panasonic Blue Ray player.

Lastly, I will be mouting the plasma to the wall. Which mount will get me as close to the wall as possible so that the install looks nice from the side as well?

Thanks,
Mike

I got the C42FD18 yesterday afternoon and I'm very satisfied with the set. It does have one stuck-at-red pixel, but I can't notice it from more than 3 ft away, so it's not a problem. I'm still tweaking the settings, but this is a real good price for this TV.

ok i own a samsung hls5087w , im looking to upgrade cause i want something with 24fps, ive been looking at either the costco model as its a great price
or a samsung ln52a750 which is about a grand more, now what im wondering is
it even worth it to upgrade from a hls5087w to a panasonic as this dlp was top of the line a year and half ago. would the picture quality be better or worse
and is 24fps worth the upgrade? or would i be better saving the money to go to the sammy lcd 750 series.
also on the pc input of the costco model am i able to display full hd or is there a restriction to that input and i have to go through
the hdmi.
thanks in advance

I have a credit for $1100 coming to me from Costco for returning a Vizio set that is slowly dying. So I'm trying to capitalize on this buy getting another costco set. The extra 2 years warranty doesn't hurt either. The TH-C50FD18 is on the contendors list. It has an excellent price, even prior to my credit.

I'm trying to guage how much better the higher end Panasonic's like the TH-50PZ85U/TH-50PZ800U/TH-50PZ850U are compared to this set. Those prices are all obviously higher, but I'm willing to go up to the price the PZ850U offers if buying online, assuming there's really something worth getting in these 3 other models. I spend a couple grand a year at costco anyway, so my credit won't go to waste.I purchased the c42fd18 at the fabulous Costco price as a second monitor to my 50-pz850U. I still need to dial in the settings on the 42fd18, but it is a very solid PQ for the price point. Even my wife noticed that the 850u had a sharper picture with better color quality. But, we both agreed that the 850U price point is no where near as sharp as the new
Costco-FD18.

I haven't even plugged the set in as of yet.....We just got home from days of northern Michigan color viewing, and I'm now waiting for some carpet cleaners to get here to get this done with before a night of adjusting and figuring out the beast.....Gawd, I can't wait.


I downloaded the break-in disc, but wouldn't running the SD card with loads of scenery pictures for hours on end, work just as well for getting time in towards the 100 break-in period?

I haven't even plugged the set in as of yet.....We just got home from days of northern Michigan color viewing, and I'm now waiting for some carpet cleaners to get here to get this done with before a night of adjusting and figuring out the beast.....Gawd, I can't wait.


I downloaded the break-in disc, but wouldn't running the SD card with loads of scenery pictures for hours on end, work just as well for getting time in towards the 100 break-in period?

I am against any sort of break in procedure requiring a disk or SD card with the tv on for hours on end.
Also if you choose to use a SD memory card I would suggest downloading wide screen photos. Many photos taken with digital cameras will not fill the screen horizontally. The resulting black bars will age the phosphor and render those areas to be less vivid, then the center of the screen.
For break in, Panasonic suggests for users to fill the screen using the aspect ratio on the R/C. Check the owner's manual.

I am against any sort of break in procedure requiring a disk or SD card with the tv on for hours on end.
Also if you choose to use a SD memory card I would suggest downloading wide screen photos. Many photos taken with digital cameras will not fill the screen horizontally. The resulting black bars will age the phosphor and render those areas to be less vivid, then the center of the screen.
For break in, Panasonic suggests for users to fill the screen using the aspect ratio on the R/C. Check the owner's manual.

Yup,,,I just found that out. My god the picture on the t.v. is just breathtaking even with the picture toned down, the pictures I took are just beautiful, but your right they don't fill the screen which makes them useless as a break-in tool.

Geez, I can't imagine the picture getting any better. I'm very pleased.

Well I just picked up this television, and I won't even get into the whole story about what it was like getting this thing from the store into my bedroom, but here's my VERY early impressions:

The television itself (not just the image it displays) looks great. It has a nice thin black finish. The television is thin and has small handles in the back, which makes it rather easy to move.

As far as the picture itself, so far I am very satisfied. Unfortunately the room it is in currently is not very conducive for a great television viewing experience. When sitting down, I'm MAYBE 5 feet away from the screen. Also, it's on a clothing dresser, so you have to look "up" at it rather often. That all said, the picture still does look very good. I fired up Blade Runner and Iron Man on my PS3, and enabled 24p output. I didn't do a side-by-side comparison with/without 24p, but I was satisfied.

One thing I noticed, and I don't know if this is the result of a great picture or weird compression, but one thing I saw that I haven't seen much on my old CRT HDTV was that the movies actually looked like they were on "film." Like I saw all the slight "Dirt" and "specks" on the film itself, especially on Blade Runner (Which is understandable given how old the movie is.) At first I was a bit put off by this, but then I figured, "Why am I complaining about the fact that it looks like it does when I'm in the movie theater??"

One thing that really blew me away was how it did sports stuff. I watched the massacre, errr.. ALCS game on TBS HD and everything seemed to be more fluid. Like the action just had more of a "live" feel to it, even better than my CRT. Maybe I need to see them side-by-side, but it just seemed like the action had a cleaner and more fluid flow to it. I mean it even made me have a greater appreciation for WWE HD on Sci-fi, which is rather infamous for macroblocking, but again the action seemed more fluid.

There's one other thing that I noticed which I thought was just SUPER cool. I have the Panny hooked up to a standard Samsung HTIB system. The television isn't even really "directly" hooked up to the audio system. There is an optical output that is connected from my DirecTV to a switch, and then it is output to the television. The television is not hooked up to the optical output at all, and the D* is hooked directly to the television only with RCA cords. After I programmed my D* remote to work with the television, and when I was modifying the volume, I saw that it was modifying it on the STEREO and not the television, and that no volume was coming out of the tv. When I turned off the stereo, the television detected it and started outputting sound to the television, and when I turned the stereo back on, it muted the television and let the stereo take over. I guess this is probably more of a standard thing on televisions nowadays, but I was just shocked that it did it so SEEMLESSLY.

Of course I couldn't do much in terms of video game testing, as I read you should do your best to refrain from using game systems during the first 100 hours. I did fire up Rock Band 2, and it was a little intimidating to have all the notes flying at me at fast speeds on this HUGE screen (I had become accustomed to playing on a 30" screen.)

Anyways, as of now I am very satisfied with my purchase. The true test will be in 2 weeks for football on Sunday Ticket. I'm going to my dad's house this weekend to watch football since both our teams are playing against each other and I haven't been over for one Sunday so far this year. Actually I may just DVR a game and watch it after and see how football looks on it. So far I don't see much of a reason to expect a result much lower than "awesome."

FYI, it has a 20,000:1 Contrast Ratio.

Sorry for the slow reply, i'm an afternoon shifter......I wasn't sure if talking actual price on this site was accepted.


The Costco list price has been $1699 for the 50 inch TH-C50FD18. They had a $100 manufacturers price drop on it for a little while, so it was $1599. I had got a sort of coupon but it wasn't really a coupon in their monthly mailing for $200 off starting 10/09. I had talked to the service desk on 10/07 and they said the $100 buck deal was being dropped and it even said that on the price in the store so I was figuring $1499 this morning, but the web-site said the total discount was now $300 bucks off, for a price of $1399. Of course I presented the non-coupon trying to get another $200 bucks off but that was a no go.

I couldn't pass it up. $1399, and $196 for a Phillips 1000watt 6 speaker DVD surround system.

I realize there's much nicer stuff out there but this hit my price point, and I really wanted a 50 incher. Now I wish I wasn't heading up north tomorrow night for 4 days of wine drinking, camp fires, and color touring so I could stay home and play around.




TH3----I believe it was just the 50 that had the $200 price drop. The web-site is showing the 42 at $1099.


Just a heads up for everyone out there looking for phenomenal deals on Plasma/LCD/Rear Projectors etc. If you search for TV's on Amazon.com and purchase a TV from the seller Amazon.com, you will not only receive a greatly reduced price, but zero dollars on tax and free shipping. For example, I just returned my Costco TH-C50FD18 which was 1599, but with all the rebates came out to $1399.99 before tax. With tax of $120.00 and all the struggles of transporting it to my house i realized that it wasn't the best deal out there.
If you go to amazon.com and check the TV's for example, the TH-42PZ85U which is the next level up with the 30,000 to 1 native contrast and a few other noise reduction/24p upgrades is priced at $1056.99 out the door. You dont pay any tax period and the shipping is free with White Glove delivery, meaning that Amazon.com movers will call you and let you know when you want it at your home, they bring it in, unpack it, inspect it to ur liking and you're set up. So in conclussion, you pay $1056.99 out the door for this upgraded phenomenal model as opposed to $899.99 plus $100.00 tax at Costco for the TH-42FD18U model which has the 20,000 to 1 native contast. Why not spend the extra 56 dollars?? After all the research it seems to be quite the bargain.:D

Just a heads up for everyone out there looking for phenomenal deals on Plasma/LCD/Rear Projectors etc. If you search for TV's on Amazon.com and purchase a TV from the seller Amazon.com, you will not only receive a greatly reduced price, but zero dollars on tax and free shipping. For example, I just returned my Costco TH-C50FD18 which was 1599, but with all the rebates came out to $1399.99 before tax. With tax of $120.00 and all the struggles of transporting it to my house i realized that it wasn't the best deal out there.
If you go to amazon.com and check the TV's for example, the TH-42PZ85U which is the next level up with the 30,000 to 1 native contrast and a few other noise reduction/24p upgrades is priced at $1056.99 out the door. You dont pay any tax period and the shipping is free with White Glove delivery, meaning that Amazon.com movers will call you and let you know when you want it at your home, they bring it in, unpack it, inspect it to ur liking and you're set up. So in conclussion, you pay $1056.99 out the door for this upgraded phenomenal model as opposed to $899.99 plus $100.00 tax at Costco for the TH-42FD18U model which has the 20,000 to 1 native contast. Why not spend the extra 56 dollars?? After all the research it seems to be quite the bargain.:D

I don't think you can go wrong with either Costco or Amazon, but AFAIK, the Z85U does not have any 24p upgrades over the C42FD18 according to the Panasonic site. I did go with Costco for their hassle-free return policies and they add an extra year on the warranty for free. Additionally, I don't think I would see the difference in contrast ratios. I was wondering how they increased it since both sets use the same G11 panel.

I am looking at the same sets at Costoc now and am mixed on the 720 to the 1080 sets. Not sure if the 1080 is worth the extra money ($100) between the 720 and the 1080 42" or go to the 50" 720 for under a grand!!! But Panny is a great tv and really want to go that route.

I don't think you can go wrong with either Costco or Amazon, but AFAIK, the Z85U does not have any 24p upgrades over the C42FD18 according to the Panasonic site. I did go with Costco for their hassle-free return policies and they add an extra year on the warranty for free. Additionally, I don't think I would see the difference in contrast ratios. I was wondering how they increased it since both sets use the same G11 panel.
That was a major reason for me buying my tv from Costco. Whenever I don't fully understand a technology or am inexperienced with it, I look for the best return and warranty policy, and it's hard to go wrong with Costco's. Also, making sure that the television doesn't suck goes a long way as well. :-p

I got the Panasonic TH-C42FD18 tv last weekend at Costco and I'm going through the break-in period so I haven't optimized picture yet.

I've done some research for some time now and was originally leaning towards a Sony or Samsung LCD. I liked the crisp sharp image on some of their models, but had reservations regarding the jittery images. I'm not sure this Panasonic can match the crisp sharp image on those LCD's though. It came close when I briefly set the Panasonic's picture to Vivid with some minor adjustments. I'll know for sure after break-in since I don't see a point in spending time on fine tunning at this time. Would be interested to hear comments on this matter. I will be reading the PZ80U fine tunning thread on this forum for suggestions.

Regarding some of the issues brought up on this thread, specifically the contrast ratio of 20,000 or 30,000 depending on the model, from what I read on another board the increased contrast to 30k is useless in practical terms since the C.A.T.S feature that enables it makes the contrast ratio variable and even pro calibrators advice to turn it off, according to the post. Also going to the higher resolution of a 1080p model over 720p is a plus for its higher resolution.

I was not able to post link to said thread since I'm new posting here. But it is the most concise informative thread I found while researching the Panasonic models of this thread and a few other models, so here is the info if anyone is interested in finding it: highdefforum.com, thread is "Panasonic Plasma TV Comparison" I have no links to this forum, just trying to share information.


All in all I believe the Panasonic TH-C42FD18 and probably the 50" model too, along with their non-warehouse store models at similar price are the best value for the money by far at this time.

I've done some research for some time now and was originally leaning towards a Sony or Samsung LCD. I liked the crisp sharp image on some of their models, but had reservations regarding the jittery images. I'm not sure this Panasonic can match the crisp sharp image on those LCD's though. It came close when I briefly set the Panasonic's picture to Vivid with some minor adjustments. I'll know for sure after break-in since I don't see a point in spending time on fine tunning at this time. Would be interested to hear comments on this matter.

I had the 720p version of the 42" costco and a Samsung a550 LCD at home for a couple of weeks and I wrote up a comparison thread here, if you're curious:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1070008

I didn't find the sharpness, even between the 720p and 1080p sets, to be much of a factor with any normal material from my distance of 8-9 feet. That is, there was a difference, but it was minor compared to the other differences between the sets.

Does anyone know if the TH-C50FD18 is rated for use at high altitude? I am at 8000ft and DO NOT want the annoying buzz that can occur on a plasma. My local high end video shop has some 'high altitude' sets, the box from the manufacturer even states 'high altitude' right on the box, but they are way out of my price range! Of course I could always return the set to Costco, but I really want this TV! Will Costco give a refund or is it just a store credit? Thanks

You all might want to check out this site.....Seems like an automatic bookmark to me. Real informative stuff.

http://www.tweaktv.com/

You all might want to check out this site.....Seems like an automatic bookmark to me. Real informative stuff.

http://www.tweaktv.com/

And i see that you've already made a request there for the settings for the C50FD18. Now I don't have to register and ask myself. :p

And i see that you've already made a request there for the settings for the C50FD18. Now I don't have to register and ask myself. :p


LOL,,,hey, I figured someone from here would ask if not myself.....

With the new pricing of this model, it was a no-brainer for me because I had been considering the PX. After a week at home, the 42" model is performing better than expected. I callibrated it using the recommendation in another thread, and the picture is bright, colors are sharp, and blacks are black. The sound can be tinny but I am getting a speaker system anyway. I'm glad that I finally got one so I don't have to research and shop around and around!

I just took back my 37-inch LCD Vizio for the TH-C42HD18 at my local Costco for $823.99 out the door! Anyways comparing my Xbox 360 connected using HDMI i have noticed on the panny that there is a horrible greenish blur when there is movement on the screen. I did not have this problem with the Vizio. This is my first Plasma i have purchased so im not sure where the problem lies. I have tried various different settings on the panny and Xbox 360 and the blur is still there. Has anyone else had this problem? :confused:

Does anyone know if the TH-C50FD18 is rated for use at high altitude? I am at 8000ft and DO NOT want the annoying buzz that can occur on a plasma. My local high end video shop has some 'high altitude' sets, the box from the manufacturer even states 'high altitude' right on the box, but they are way out of my price range!No worries, Panasonic plasmas are rated for over 9,000 feet (it's either 9,100 or 9,200 - i cant remember which). It's been like this for at least 2 years now.

Of course I could always return the set to Costco, but I really want this TV! Will Costco give a refund or is it just a store credit? Costco will give you a refund within 90 days of your TV purchase regardless of the reason for return.

I just took back my 37-inch LCD Vizio for the TH-C42HD18 at my local Costco for $823.99 out the door! Anyways comparing my Xbox 360 connected using HDMI i have noticed on the panny that there is a horrible greenish blur when there is movement on the screen. I did not have this problem with the Vizio. This is my first Plasma i have purchased so im not sure where the problem lies. I have tried various different settings on the panny and Xbox 360 and the blur is still there. Has anyone else had this problem? :confused:You have the 720p model which is completely different than the 1080p model that this thread is about, so the folks here might not have that problem on their TVs.

There may be discussion about the green blur in the big PX80U thread. Your HD18 is internally indentical to the PX80U. I have seen various posts about green blur when gaming on plasmas so you might want to search the forum for past discussions.

I just took back my 37-inch LCD Vizio for the TH-C42HD18 at my local Costco for $823.99 out the door!

This is intriguing - I got one yesterday in Seattle and I paid $899.99 + tax. Did you mistype? If not, please share more info!

BTW - when I was watching some HD programming the set looked very dim on the stock settings - is that normal? I'm doing the break-in via SD card now, and wondering if that will help the picture or if that is just a precaution.

This is intriguing - I got one yesterday in Seattle and I paid $899.99 + tax. Did you mistype? If not, please share more info!

BTW - when I was watching some HD programming the set looked very dim on the stock settings - is that normal? I'm doing the break-in via SD card now, and wondering if that will help the picture or if that is just a precaution.

1-you have the best price. the other poster was referring to a diffrent panny model
2- see my earlier post regarding break in using SD images not filling the entire screen.

You have the 720p model which is completely different than the 1080p model that this thread is about, so the folks here might not have that problem on their TVs.

There may be discussion about the green blur in the big PX80U thread. Your HD18 is internally indentical to the PX80U. I have seen various posts about green blur when gaming on plasmas so you might want to search the forum for past discussions.

Thanks for the info Randy. :D

Through Oct 23rd BrandsMart USA in South FL & Atlanta, GA area has the 42" PX80 for $698.88 so even if you already bought the Costco version go back & make them match BrandsMart USA's price.

Through Oct 23rd BrandsMart USA in South FL & Atlanta, GA area has the 42" PX80 for $698.88 so even if you already bought the Costco version go back & make them match BrandsMart USA's price.

Just because they may be internally the same does not mean they are the same model. These are more specific models, and I think if the return department sees the # differences and says they're not the same, and you reply, "Yeah, but inside they're exactly the same", I don't think you're going to get very far. Just my opinion.

Through Oct 23rd BrandsMart USA in South FL & Atlanta, GA area has the 42" PX80 for $698.88 so even if you already bought the Costco version go back & make them match BrandsMart USA's price.
Costco doesn't match other vendors' pricing, period. If the pricing is too much to pass up, just return your unit to Costco (if you're in the 90-day return period).

Yeah there is no real "Price Guarantee" policy that they have. You're essentially just taking advantage of their 90 day return policy, since you can basically return a television for whatever reason.

My daughter has gotten Costco to price match things but it may have been after she had bought it & was going to return the item unless they matched the price.

I saw the C42FD18 1080p model for $899 at Costco. I'm on the fence of wether to buy it or not

I saw the C42FD18 1080p model for $899 at Costco. I'm on the fence of wether to buy it or not
May as well. If you don't like it you have 90 days to return it.

Just picked it up from Cosco. Had pretty much decided on a Sharp 52" LCD but when this came up, figured it was pretty much a no brainer with Cosco's return policy and 2 year guarantee. Finally gets the wife off my back anyway about getting a set.

Just picked it up from Cosco. Had pretty much decided on a Sharp 52" LCD but when this came up, figured it was pretty much a no brainer with Cosco's return policy and 2 year guarantee. Finally gets the wife off my back anyway about getting a set.

There's something I doubt I'll ever hear my fiancee say: "Hun, we a new bigger television!" I'm usually proactive when it comes to such purchases.

Hey, does anyone have any info on to how to find out how many hours these sets have been on? I think this must be accessed from the service menu, but I don't know how to get it or what to look for.

I have seen references to "BruZZi"'s forum for instructions but that appears to be down......

Just visited the Costco site and see that they have dropped the prices on their models of the Panasonic 42" plasmas to less than $700 on the 720p model and less than $750 on the 1080p model. When I purchased my 42" Samsung a month ago all prices were $800+. Wonder if this is in response to the upcoming holiday season or the financial crisis - or both?

Just visited the Costco site and see that they have dropped the prices on their models of the Panasonic 42" plasmas to less than $700 on the 720p model and less than $750 on the 1080p model.

I saw this and was thrilled to be able to get my $150 back. Now the 42" 1080p is not on the website. Too good to be true??

"We're sorry, this product is not available. Product number: 11292507"

Wow - you're right. Gone just like that! :(

But the 720p is still available.

I saw this and was thrilled to be able to get my $150 back. Now the 42" 1080p is not on the website. Too good to be true??Items for sale on their website aren't necessarily in stock at the various stores, and items in their stores are not always on their website. They are two completely different entitities. Sometimes a particular TV will be available online in the morning, then in the afternoon it's no longer on their website, only to re-appear the next morning. At my closest Costco last weekend they had a large stack of the 720p and 1080p Pannys, yet not all of them were on the website.

Could someone please post the dimension of the TH-C50HD18's box? I would like to see if it can fit in a Subaru Forester. Thanks!

Could someone please post the dimension of the TH-C50HD18's box? I would like to see if it can fit in a Subaru Forester. Thanks!
My TH-C50FD18 (not HD) box is 52" W x 36" H x 13" D.

-Kat

Could someone please post the dimension of the TH-C50HD18's box? I would like to see if it can fit in a Subaru Forester. Thanks!


Carton Dimensions 36.3" x 52.7" x 13.1"

Could someone please post the dimension of the TH-C50HD18's box? I would like to see if it can fit in a Subaru Forester. Thanks!

I needed someone to help with an SUV and we barely got it in there. I doubt you'll be able to transport it the way you're "supposed" to with it standing up and not laying flat, but the flat way should be achievable.

I need some help from any TH-C50FD18 owners. Thanks to the reviews on the board I bought one and it is on the way. I need help in finding out the dimensions of the base stand of the tv. I just brought a tv stand and I am afraid it may be too small. I would appreciate if anyone could provide the base width and length dimensions

Thanks

I need some help from any TH-C50FD18 owners. Thanks to the reviews on the board I bought one and it is on the way. I need help in finding out the dimensions of the base stand of the tv. I just brought a tv stand and I am afraid it may be too small. I would appreciate if anyone could provide the base width and length dimensions

Thanks

Roughly 15 front to back and 18 wide

Items for sale on their website aren't necessarily in stock at the various stores, and items in their stores are not always on their website. They are two completely different entitities. Sometimes a particular TV will be available online in the morning, then in the afternoon it's no longer on their website, only to re-appear the next morning. At my closest Costco last weekend they had a large stack of the 720p and 1080p Pannys, yet not all of them were on the website.

You're right - I should have been more specific. I visited my local Costco store yesterday and noted that they had 2 boxes of the 720p Panasonic underneath the display for $700 and even my 42" Samsung purchased there a month ago was marked down another $50, which gets back to my original point of falling prices due to economy and/or the approaching holiday season.

Thanks jibmos. I had to replace the tv stand since the top tier of the stand was only 14inches. Appreciate your help. I just need to get a good surge protector.

Picked up the 1080p C50FD18 at Costco a week+ ago and really like it so far...beats the pants off my 37" Olevia LCD, which I have really liked up to this point.

Only problem is I'm trying to get 1080p via the PC input (VGA port) and striking out. Tried my 360 with no luck and laptop is the same way. Is this even possible? It should be...right?

Picked up the 1080p C50FD18 at Costco a week+ ago and really like it so far...beats the pants off my 37" Olevia LCD, which I have really liked up to this point.

Only problem is I'm trying to get 1080p via the PC input (VGA port) and striking out. Tried my 360 with no luck and laptop is the same way. Is this even possible? It should be...right?

vga is analog. I believe your C50FD18 3 hdmi ports, which are digital. They will furnish 1080p. If your pc's video card has a dvi port, borrow a friends dvi to hdmi cable. connect the hdmi end to the C50FD18 and the dvi end to your video card's dvi port. .
this setup will still require audio connections between the pc and the C50FD18.

This should give you the results you are looking for. if it does, don't forget to return your buddy's cable and buy your own ! enjoy your new panny :)

vga is analog. I believe your C50FD18 3 hdmi ports, which are digital. They will furnish 1080p. If your pc's video card has a dvi port, borrow a friends dvi to hdmi cable. connect the hdmi end to the C50FD18 and the dvi end to your video card's dvi port. .
this setup will still require audio connections between the pc and the C50FD18.


Hmm...I get that, but I do 1920x1200 on my laptops screen with no problem. I guess that's not a VGA connection internal? Seems like I could hook up any LCD panel and get 1920x1080 via VGA.
I have gotten the Panny to do 1600x1050, but can't push it any further...maybe it's a laptop limitation?

In the long run I'll be hooking my desktop up to it, which has a DVI output on the video card and should be able to push 1920x1080...


enjoy your new panny :)

Thanks!

Hmm...I get that, but I do 1920x1200 on my laptops screen with no problem. I guess that's not a VGA connection internal? Seems like I could hook up any LCD panel and get 1920x1080 via VGA.
I have gotten the Panny to do 1600x1050, but can't push it any further...maybe it's a laptop limitation?

Try making the external monitor the primary, by checking "this is my main monitor" is the display setting dalog. You can also turn off the laptop monitor by deselecting it in the same dialog. This worked for me. My adapter is the 8600m GT. You may njeed to reboot with the monitor already connected.

Hi everyone! (first post) I was recently looking into getting a Sony/Vizio 120mhz LCDTV @ Costco. I was set on the Sony WL135 LCD... but then starting looking into plasma options. My main use will be for movies hooked up through my media center using HDMI output. I'm not a fan of this motionflow/trumotion technology that makes movies look like homemade birthday party videos, I like the classic original FILM framerate... been reading about ghosting problems with LCD in high action/sports, I don't watch sports but this is very important to me because of gaming... I will be playing a bit of xbox on this TV and on my 50'' Sony DLP I can feel the HD-Lag. fastest LCD I've seen is still a 5ms delay which for me was the breaking point to switch to Plasma. I'll be getting the TH-C50FD18 next week and wanted to know peoples experience with it playing games. also can you get different base stands for it?

Picked up the 1080p C50FD18 at Costco.

Only problem is I'm trying to get 1080p via the PC input (VGA port) and striking out. Tried my 360 with no luck and laptop is the same way. Is this even possible? It should be...right?

My Panasonic TH-C50FD18 manual states on Pg 45 maximum resolution via PC (VGA) display is 1366x768. Sorry.

As stated, use HDMI, or DVI-HDMI for 1920x1080 resolution from a PC.

Also I changed the setting for Picture> HD Size = Size 2 for 100% display (pg 25).
Remove any overscan on PC driver.
That gave me matched 1:1 pixel resolution for the best detail.

Post your results!

I recently visited Costco with my original receipt in hand to discuss the latest $300 instant coupon on the TH-C50FD18.

I had purchased my TH-C50FD18 TV from the same store 9 weeks earlier when the set was $1700.
The manager checked my receipt, the store prices, and inventory (lots on the floor), and said that they have a 30 day price protection policy. I said it wouldn't help either of us if I had to return my unit within the 90 day return window and purchased a new one just to get the $300 back. The manager said she was just quoting the official policy, and promptly gave me $318 in cash (including sales tax), even though I paid by credit card.

As my membership was due I renewed it right there. Thanks Costco!

Try making the external monitor the primary, by checking "this is my main monitor" is the display setting dalog. You can also turn off the laptop monitor by deselecting it in the same dialog. This worked for me. My adapter is the 8600m GT. You may njeed to reboot with the monitor already connected.

FWIW, I have a Thinkpad T61p w/ a Nvidia 570m, which is basically a 8600GT IIRC.
I tried a few options (in Windows XP and Ubuntu), but don't know if I did a reboot with it attached and the TV set as my main display. I'll give it a shot.


My Panasonic TH-C50FD18 manual states on Pg 45 maximum resolution via PC (VGA) display is 1366x768. Sorry.

As stated, use HDMI, or DVI-HDMI for 1920x1080 resolution from a PC.

Also I changed the setting for Picture> HD Size = Size 2 for 100% display (pg 25).
Remove any overscan on PC driver.
That gave me matched 1:1 pixel resolution for the best detail.

Post your results!


What manual?
haha, yeah, I should read that. RTFM yoyodyne.
Unfortunately, only have VGA on this laptop. I'm going out of town for a few weeks this weekend, but when I get back I'll compare my laptop and desktop and how well they work with VGA/HDMI...
Thanks for the help.

My old Vizio 42 PDP jsut went out. Luckily, we have a large credit coming back from Costco under the old refund policy. I went in last night, no questions asked. They gave us a full refund on a Costco CAsh Card. Nice !

I was about to get either the 42FD or the 50FD..
But I then started to take a look at some of the LCD's Samsung 540 and the Vizio XVT's. The look nice!
I know that the Toshiba 46XF550U you can order online, great reviews there…...

So, I came back here to look at some reviews for the above. Thanks to this forum, some good and bad on both.

I guess it comes down to preferance..LCD vs Plasma?

I will spend most of the time just watchng TV, lots of sports. Not too much gaming
DTV-HD DVR
Soon, will get a BR or PS3!

On either purchase, we do get 90 days on our purchase

Any others out there that stuck w/ a Plasma or went over to the LCD route?
Then maybe tried out an LCD, but went with one of the above panny Plasma's here?

Thanks

[QUOTE=tmdlkwd;Any others out there that stuck w/ a Plasma or went over to the LCD route?
Then maybe tried out an LCD, but went with one of the above panny Plasma's here?[/QUOTE]

I had the Vizio 42XVTfor almost 2 weeks, returned it to Costco, and purchased the Panny THC42FD. IMHO Plasma beats LCD technology for a number of reasons; hands down.

i love my vizio 47" inch XVT. vizio has really come a long way with their technology. the picture quality is significantly better than my brother's sony and with the 1080p and refresh rate everything is super crisp (especially sports). just don't think you can get a better bang for your buck especially with their product guarantees and warranty options (even better if you get it at costco and get theirs on top).

Hi all,

due to the discussion here, I dropped some cash on the TH-C50FD18. I went through costco.com for the free shipping. I also went in-store to get the Bayside "Vision" TV stand from my local costco. It's one of those with the "floating" TV mount.

Unfortunately, the included rails don't attach to the back of the Panasonic very well. I don't see any holes for mounting screws on the back of the set. Am I supposed to unscrew some of those that are already installed? There are no instructions for wall mounting included, and the furniture instructions don't specify either.

Can anyone advise me (or link to a guide) on how to attach my new Panasonic to the floating mount?

PS: Thanks for all the knowledgeable advice so far. You guys really helped me make the right decision!

[QUOTE=templewulf;14987043]Hi all,


Unfortunately, the included rails don't attach to the back of the Panasonic very well. I don't see any holes for mounting screws on the back of the set. Am I supposed to unscrew some of those that are already installed? There are no instructions for wall mounting included, and the furniture instructions don't specify either.

Can anyone advise me (or link to a guide) on how to attach my new Panasonic to the floating mount?/QUOTE]

Good move on your new Panny C50, enjoy it.
I am not familiar with the Bayside mount.....but if you plan to mount the tv on a wall read on.

If you already have the proprer machine bolts to attach the mounting bracket to the rear of your panny, do the following:

Place a large blanket on a hard flat surface then then get help to place the tv's screen side down on to the blanket.
Use a wide but thin slot/flat bladed screwdriver to pop the 4 round plastic grommets from the rear of the tv.
That will expose the threaded inserts for the machine bolts you will use attach the mount to.
If you haven't purchased the machine bolts/screws, do the following:
Measure how deep the inserts are. I used a long fireplace matchstick. Place it into the threaded insert then put a pencil mark on the match where it exits at the surface of the rear panel of the tv. Use that measurement to buy the correct length machine bolts. Preferably buy hex headed machine bolts that fit a socket or crescent wrench. Philpis headed m/b's are harder to work with and can strip.
This is an important part of attaching any mount to the rear of any tv....you do not want to tighten a machine bolt/screw that is too long, because it could damage a circuit board and kill the tv !

Hi all,


Unfortunately, the included rails don't attach to the back of the Panasonic very well. I don't see any holes for mounting screws on the back of the set. Am I supposed to unscrew some of those that are already installed? There are no instructions for wall mounting included, and the furniture instructions don't specify either.

Can anyone advise me (or link to a guide) on how to attach my new Panasonic to the floating mount?

Good move on your new Panny C50, enjoy it.
If you already have the proprer machine bolts to attach the mounting bracket to the rear of your panny, do the following:

Place a large blanket on a hard flat surface then then get help to place the tv's screen side down on to the blanket.
Use a wide but thin slot/flat bladed screwdriver to pop the 4 round plastic grommets from the rear of the tv.
That will expose the threaded inserts for the machine bolts you will use attach the mount to.
If you haven't purchased the machine bolts/screws, do the following:
Measure how deep the inserts are. I used a long fireplace matchstick. Place it into the threaded insert then put a pencil mark on the match where it exits at the surface of the rear panel of the tv. Use that measurement to buy the correct length machine bolts. Preferably buy hex headed machine bolts that fit a socket or crescent wrench. Philpis headed m/b's are harder to work with and can strip.
This is an important part of attaching any mount to the rear of any tv....you do not want to tighten a machine bolt/screw that is too long, because it could damage a circuit board and kill the tv !
Ohhhhhhh!! That explains it.

How did you know to do that? The instructions don't mention those grommets at all. Is that something you just have to know beforehand? Did you know that from mounting similar TVs in the past?

Thanks a bunch!

Ohhhhhhh!! That explains it.

How did you know to do that? The instructions don't mention those grommets at all. Is that something you just have to know beforehand? Did you know that from mounting similar TVs in the past?

Thanks a bunch!

My THC 42 was the first HDTV I ran into that had the 4 inserts plugged with a grommet. Since no other inserts were available, the grommets were the only logical place to look for them.
Don't forget about the proper length for the m/b's.

Good luck.

I just purchased the TH-C50FD18, it is my first Plasma Screen, I have other LCD's.
I am looking for the best settings for the TV. I used this forum to decide to purchase this Plasma, thanks for all the information, you all have been very helpful. Or if there is a better thread to look to, please let me know.
thanks again.:)

I just purchased the TH-C50FD18, it is my first Plasma Screen, I have other LCD's. I am looking for the best settings for the TV. I used this forum to decide to purchase this Plasma, thanks for all the information, you all have been very helpful. Or if there is a better thread to look to, please let me know. thanks again.:)As you should probably know by now, your C50FD18 is internally identical to the PZ80U so you could try some of the settings that PZ80U owners have posted in the Panasonic PZ80/PZ85 Calibration Thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1019763).

But there are so many variables (like your sources, your lighting conditions, your eyesight, your perception of color etc etc etc) that it's not likely someone else's settings will be just right for you, but they can give you a good idea of where to start (like people using the Black Level: Light setting, or running their Picture setting high and their Brightness setting about halfway etc) then you can fine-tune things from there.

[QUOTE=RandyWalters;

Another rumor that floats around is that the models sold in the big wharehouse stores (Costco, Sams, etc) are something called "B-stock"; units that contain substandard components but this is also false. These units contain the exact same parts as the regular line.[/QUOTE]

Randy,
Your statement is true. The rumors are started by uppity videophiles who have plasma HDTV's and have paid hundred's of dollars more for their sets. They justify in their minds that the TF-C Viera series are junk, by referring to them as warehouse tv's.
Thier loss our gain.:D
BTW is it my computer or is Panasonic.com having problems ?
I have tried numerous times to access there Viera plasma link and receive "page cannot be found"

My THC50 has just ended its "break-in" period, so I've been putting it through regular rigors of gaming and television viewing. It still hasn't been calibrated, and I probably won't do so until I move, but even at its "safe break-in settings" I am still stunned by the image quality. Watching football games on it really feels like you're there, and regular HD television viewing has been enhanced as well. Bioshock on the PS3 has looked very good so far, and I am now chomping at the bit to put Gears of War 2 on the thing. As I posted earlier, any television that makes Guitar Hero 3 look impressive puts it in a class by itself.

If you're like me and don't have much experience with higher-grade HD stuff, I think this is a nice example of how good HD really can look when hooked up to a powerful modern system. I can't compare this model to Kuros or similar sized models at double the price, but I have no complaints, and the 90 day return policy is really a nice thing to have along with the included added year of warranty service.

I do have one question about transporting this television. I know that you're not supposed to transport these flat panels "longways", (i.e. if the screen was laying face down on the floor) but short of waiting for the moving people to do it for me, the only way I may be able to move it is longways, as opposed to it standing up vertically. I had to do this anyways to get the television home from Costco, but that was for about 20 minutes, and before it had been turned on and broken in. Assuming that it's not for longer than an hour, should I still be concerned with transporting this television longways (in its box of course) or should I be ok?

btc9800, I disagree with your statement about "Uppity Videophiles" concerning warehouse models because I was one of the people that was told that the warehouse Panny models were different & they were when it came to the older Panny warehouse "Tube Models" which had cheaper power supplies & boards in them made in Korea where the regular Panny line had better power supplies & the boards in them were made in Japan so it was only natural to inquire about the Panny plasma warehouse models but from what I've read & been told the warehouse Panny plasma's use the exact same parts & it's probably because it costs more money now to screw around with different parts than to just use the same ones for both the Regular & Warehouse models.

I 'temporarily' went against some positive advice and got a Panny TH C50HD18 (720p) instead of FD18 (1080p). Great pic so far but break-in is still early. This set will only see DirecTV HD DVR signals and some HD off-air from local repeater towers (southwestern Utah). This is not an easy panel to return and replace, but still nervous about decision to NOT go with FD18 (1080p).
My ignorant reasoning was not fully understanding how the scalar works to fill the extra ~1M pixels on the FD18. I saw the numbers re. 720p vs 1080i sources and the comment 'only having to de-interlace the 1080i'. But what about the 720p ... and ... do I just factor that part of my question out ? The likelihood of this particular display seeing Bluray is VERY low. Even with DirecTV's recent download and accompanying bluray movie comment, won't my HD DVR still only present its current 720p or 1080i outputs via HDMI ??

Please help ... since I have worn out my available contact resources with no answers I trust!! :confused:
TB

I 'temporarily' went against some positive advice and got a Panny TH C50HD18 (720p) instead of FD18 (1080p). Great pic so far but break-in is still early. This set will only see DirecTV HD DVR signals and some HD off-air from local repeater towers (southwestern Utah). This is not an easy panel to return and replace, but still nervous about decision to NOT go with FD18 (1080p).
My ignorant reasoning was not fully understanding how the scalar works to fill the extra ~1M pixels on the FD18. I saw the numbers re. 720p vs 1080i sources and the comment 'only having to de-interlace the 1080i'. But what about the 720p ... and ... do I just factor that part of my question out ? The likelihood of this particular display seeing Bluray is VERY low. Even with DirecTV's recent download and accompanying bluray movie comment, won't my HD DVR still only present its current 720p or 1080i outputs via HDMI ??

Please help ... since I have worn out my available contact resources with no answers I trust!! :confused:
TB

if you're seating distance is over 10 ft, you really won't notice a difference between the 720p and 1080p sets. Use the extra money you saved and buy yourself a BD player...

-Vic

if you're seating distance is over 10 ft, you really won't notice a difference between the 720p and 1080p sets. Use the extra money you saved and buy yourself a BD player...

-Vic
------------------------------------
Very relevant comment! Multi-function room ... closest distance ~ 5-6ft, but short viewing times (daily meals <30 minutes), next is ~12 ft; some late evening stuff, biggest need is kitchen (both are serious cooks) ~21ft.
Long viewing _ home theater, important sports stuff is 56" Samsung 1080p DLP
with decent 5.1 surround system. No BD player yet but that extra $$ from FD18 would fund an acceptable player .... Panny DMP BD35 or even 55??

Thanks for helping! (CalState Fullerton 1976)

While I fully understand and agree with the notion of what 'looks good' in our viewing scenario should be the driving factor, my background presses me to continue to try to better understand the scalar and de-interlace issues as they apply to both 50HD18 and 50FD18 (in the absence of 1080p sources). Should one 'theoretically' appear better than the other .... heavy focus on sports NFL, NCAAF, NBA, F1 racing to name a few ??

TB

I've been using the fd18 for about a month now. I decided to upgrade from the 720P hd18 about about 2months of use.

The fd18 has very nice image quality. However, I have 2 issues. First is the pretty annoying buzz. Bright white images cause significantly more buzz than darker images, but it can be heard from about 10ft away, so its pretty annoying.

Next, I just recently noticed a really odd issue with watching 4x3 material non-stretched. Is seems that images on the 4x3 area will slightly show up on the grey side bars. For example, a news ticker on the bottom will show a slight ghosted news ticker in the grey bars. Its definitely not IR or burn-in since the image on the grey bars is dynamic and changes depending on the 4x3 IR. Also, during a football video game commercial, the down lines could faintly be seen in the grey bars. Image disappeared as soon as the commercial was over.

Anyone experience these issues? I still have almost 2months to return, and it looks like I may have to take advantage of their policy.

I've been using the fd18 for about a month now. I decided to upgrade from the 720P hd18 about about 2months of use.

The fd18 has very nice image quality. However, I have 2 issues. .............. Anyone experience these issues? I still have almost 2months to return, and it looks like I may have to take advantage of their policy.
-------------------------------------------
Crud !!! I was about to do exactly the same. HD18 is back in the box and ready to be traded up to FD18. Now I'm bummed ! Can you add any retrospective comments re. the HD18 now that you can make more comparisons to FD18?? Would you NOW seriously consider keeping the HD18?
I hope others comment on the two issues you raise and whether other 50" Pannys also have them ....
Sorry to hear!

TB

Too bad .. I bailed! .. but did not go for 50FD18. Now pretty interested in Vizio VP505XVT as soon as one pops up.
TB

I've been using the fd18 for about a month now. I decided to upgrade from the 720P hd18 about about 2months of use.

The fd18 has very nice image quality. However, I have 2 issues. First is the pretty annoying buzz. Bright white images cause significantly more buzz than darker images, but it can be heard from about 10ft away, so its pretty annoying.

Next, I just recently noticed a really odd issue with watching 4x3 material non-stretched. Is seems that images on the 4x3 area will slightly show up on the grey side bars. For example, a news ticker on the bottom will show a slight ghosted news ticker in the grey bars. Its definitely not IR or burn-in since the image on the grey bars is dynamic and changes depending on the 4x3 IR. Also, during a football video game commercial, the down lines could faintly be seen in the grey bars. Image disappeared as soon as the commercial was over.

Anyone experience these issues? I still have almost 2months to return, and it looks like I may have to take advantage of their policy.
Is your monitor calibrated?

Maybe your brightness is up too high, causing the buzz.

Just an idea. :)

I do have one question about transporting this television. I know that you're not supposed to transport these flat panels "longways", (i.e. if the screen was laying face down on the floor) but short of waiting for the moving people to do it for me, the only way I may be able to move it is longways, as opposed to it standing up vertically. I had to do this anyways to get the television home from Costco, but that was for about 20 minutes, and before it had been turned on and broken in. Assuming that it's not for longer than an hour, should I still be concerned with transporting this television longways (in its box of course) or should I be ok?

Based on every reliable source I have seen address this issue, the sole reason it is recommended to transport the tv upright has to do with the fact the tv's front large glass panel is better protected, thus less likely to break.
Lying a plasma tv horizontally, or flat, regardless of time period, will not cause any damage to it.
I've seen some units stored in this fashion at the store.

I've been using the fd18 for about a month now. I decided to upgrade from the 720P hd18 about about 2months of use.

The fd18 has very nice image quality. However, I have 2 issues. First is the pretty annoying buzz. Bright white images cause significantly more buzz than darker images, but it can be heard from about 10ft away, so its pretty annoying.

Anyone experience these issues? I still have almost 2months to return, and it looks like I may have to take advantage of their policy.

I haven't noticed this. I think it may have happened a bit when I was doing the break-in process, but it was never loud enough to where it could be heard 10 feet away. Maybe you just got a messed up unit or something.

Picked this tv up yesterday.
I'm very, very satisfied with it so far.
I cam from a 42" 720p Panny that I loved. It was just too small for the room.

With a good clean source, the picture quality of this set is absolutely stunning.
I ran the images from the Break In DVD (on an SD card) and had no buzzing from the set. To the person that had some... you might want to check your settings and then consider taking it back it that doesn't help.

I'm just keeping my settings at 25 for the 1st 100 hrs and using H full, just or zoom as the need may be. Not running 16-9 at all. I can only hear the volume - no fan noise or nothing. Just a great buy - now, if I can only find a stand:)

just ordered this TV today... two things I need answered please

1. Can someone link me to good break in settings for this TV and do's and dont's (this is my first plasma)

2. Can I plug my TV into my CyberPower UPS Backup that i use for my media center on the surge side? it has AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulation) wanted to know if that is bad for TV's or whatnot... thanks

just ordered this TV today... two things I need answered please

1. Can someone link me to good break in settings for this TV and do's and dont's (this is my first plasma)There are no break-in settings - break-in is no longer necessary on current Panasonic plasmas like on older models. Just adjust the settings normally and try to avoid black bars and static images and logos and tickers for the first hundred or so hours. If you're still paranoid, just lower the PICTURE setting to a lower setting.

2. Can I plug my TV into my CyberPower UPS Backup that i use for my media center on the surge side? it has AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulation) wanted to know if that is bad for TV's or whatnot... thanksShouldn't be a problem.

Just came from a local Costco (south of Seattle) and they had just gotten a 46FD18 in today...they had to go get a price label printed out for it.
The employee came back saying "you're not going to believe this...the price is exactly the same as for the 42"! (This would be <1k)
Anywho...FWIW to those who may be interested.

Yea, I just came from my local Costco (Everett, MA) and saw the TH-C46FD18. I never saw this model mentioned on this forum. They had it for $949.99, the TH-C42FD18 for $899.99 and the TH-C50FD18 for $1399.99. For $50 bucks more, I don't see why anyone would get the 42" model.

Folks,

I am considering the TH-C46FD18 and the TH-46PZ85U. As has been discussed, the former is at Costco. The latter is available at Best Buy (non-competitive price there) and on the Internet.

The TH-46PZ85U is $300+ more. I know it looks better (glossy bexel) than the TH-C46FD18 and also has a few more features. Do you think the TH-46PZ85U is worth the extra cost?

I know it looks better (glossy bexel) ........

IMO the glossy bezel is too reflective which is one reason I went with the Cosco 50" vs the current crop of other models

Folks,

I am considering the TH-C46FD18 and the TH-46PZ85U. As has been discussed, the former is at Costco. The latter is available at Best Buy (non-competitive price there) and on the Internet.

The TH-46PZ85U is $300+ more. I know it looks better (glossy bexel) than the TH-C46FD18 and also has a few more features. Do you think the TH-46PZ85U is worth the extra cost?Is the $300 difference spread out over the life of the TV worth paying for up front in one lump sum? You apparently like the glossy bezel but another upside to the Costco model is the 90 day return period and the extra year of warranty coverage that they add. The PZ85U's glossy bezel is very distracting when watching TV. Three of my flat panel TVs have similarly glossy bezels and i can't stand it.

I have the Costco model TH-C50FD18 (1080p) which I upgraded from the TH-C50HD18 (768p). I would never buy the regular model with the piano black bezel like every other brand, I think Pioneer started it. The satin black finish on the Costco and Wall-Mart models are very subdued and classy looking and non-reflective. The shiny bezel is a very bad idea! My wife thinks it's gorgeous. The 50" Costco FD, 1080p, model comes with 3 HDMI inputs (one in the front) and also a PC input. Plus you get the Costco 2 yr warranty and 90 day return policy.

Question: My 768p HD model (manufacture date July 08) had no fan and lots of ventilation holes in the back panel. It stayed very cool. My new 1080p FD model (manufacture date May 08) has three fans across the top of the back with not so many ventilation holes. Are all the FD models this way (with fans) or was a change made at some point? Not that the fans bothers me since you can't hear them with the sound on. However, I liked the idea of no fans with lots of ventilation holes. It seems that the fans might eventually break. Anyone own the 50" FD 1080p model who could reply? Thanks

RR, I have been debating between the 2 costco models wanted to go with the HD but then started thinking the 1080 was the better way to go. Since you had both in your house does the Costco model TH-C50FD18 (1080p) have a significantly better picture than TH-C50HD18 (768p)... Any input would be appreciated...

The 1080p tvs run a lot hotter than the 720p models & if I'm not mistaken every Panny 1080p panel to date has had fans in it.

Thanks Bill1313, when I was in Costco yesterday I checked the two TH-C50FD18's they had on display and they both were the same as mine with the fans. What you say makes sense. Thanks for the feedback.

Plasma2go, I had the 768p for 2 months. I checked them side by side in the store and reset them with a remote so that they were close to identical. On Costco's in store 1080 digital feed I could not tell any difference either at 10' or 4'. However, this was a fast moving program and not the highest quality.

At home the HD model looked very good to excellent on SDTV (I was very impressed) and excellent on HDTV. I borrowed a Blu-Ray player and the HD was suprerb with top quality Blu-Ray DVD's rated 5 stars on video.

I made some unexpected gains in the stock market and upgraded to the FD on Wednesday when the wife said "go."

So far I'm still in the break-in period (first 100 hours) and have not had a chance to borrow a player (I'm still debating on several models to buy). I presumed perhaps the PQ with Blu-Ray might be slightly better on the FD. However, I already seem to see a very slight but noticable improvement both on SDTV and HDTV with the FD and maybe more so on a regular 480p DVD input from an older Panny player (finding Nemo which I have on replay to rack up hours for break-in) (my wife noticed this by herself and mentioned it without me asking, so I don't think it's imaginary). Surprisingly, it seems to be more in the precision and definition of the color and the apparent depth of the picture, more than the apparent resolution (although this in fact might be a subtle improvement due to the higher esolution). I feel there is a slight but visible improvement so far. Is the extra $400 worth it? That's a good question since the HD really is such a great value.

Update: See my additional comments about 9 posts below on the improvement due to an apparent better contrast ratio on the FD model.

RR, Thanks for the feedback, if you did not get it yet Costco just sent out a $150 coupon for both of these sets good starting 12/5. That should bring down the price of the FD by another $50.

Yeah, thanks plasma2go. Also know that their 90 day return policy is really also a price adjustment promise. If you see a lower price in the 90 days you can just take in your receipt and they will issue the credit. Occasionally you have to explain to them that you can just return the old one, get a credit and then buy the new one at the cheaper price. Then they always say oh yeah, and give you the adjustment, easier for you and them.

PS: For those who might be interested in a 46", our Costco now has the 46" 1080p Panny TH-C46FD18 at 50 clams less the the 50" HD 768p model. This is a great price if you can spare the 4" and is 450 clams less than the 50" FD.

Yeah, thanks plasma2go. Also know that their 90 day return policy is really also a price adjustment promise. If you see a lower price in the 90 days you can just take in your receipt and they will issue the credit. Occasionally you have to explain to them that you can just return the old one, get a credit and then buy the new one at the cheaper price. Then they always say oh yeah, and give you the adjustment, easier for you and them.

Costco will do what they refer to, as a credit for 30 days from date of purchase.
They will not consider lower prices offered by other stores, .com's etc.
But they give an additional 1 year warranty, and if the tv is purchased via any American Express CC a Am/Ex adds an additional year as well ! Total 3 year warranty.

[QUOTE=btc9800;15177428]Costco will do what they refer to, as a credit for 30 days from date of purchase.QUOTE]

That is their "official" policy. I talked to two different people at Costco and they both verified that in fact it is in reality a 90 day policy. It only applies to their store prices. It makes common sense.

You take back the TV after 80 days and the price is down $100. You return it (under their 90 day return policy) and turn around and buy another one at the lower price. You in fact save the $100 and have a brand new TV.

So in their infinite wisdom, they realize that it is cheaper for them to just walk over to the register and give you the $100 credit. They have a happy customer and now don't have an open box returned plasma that they have to send to the "Stupid Prices" store.

Get it?

btc9800, I never heard or saw of the additional year of warranty with an AMEX card, can you post where that info is located? Thanks, that is some great info...

I am considering picking up the 46 1080p at costco. We will mainly be using this for movies, and OTA HD. I will not be purchasing any satellite or cable. I would also be purchasing a blu-ray player. Everyone seems to say to stay away from the black bars during the first 100 hours. But most movies are going to be in an aspect ratio that gives black bars, correct? Also unless you fit the 4:3 material from the major networks I would also have bars. I dont want any burn in from movies or tv, but I also want to enjoy it. My parents have a 50 sammy that definitely has lines on the sides where 4:3 was watched without fitting. So what should I do so that I can watch alot of movies with no issues? Is it really necessary to stay away from this material for the first 100 hours? And my final question, did anyone compare a HD 50 inch next to the 46 fd? I am not concerned about pq but is the 50 inch noticeably bigger in viewing area than the 46? We will be watching the tv from pretty much exactly 10 feet, where the 1080p really probably isn't noticeable, but size could be.

Hi all, Picked up the 42" FD a few weeks ago from Costco for $880. It's an awesome display, no issues thus far. I'm connecting four permanent video sources which are all located in the same armoire as the display: An HD Dish DVR (on HDMI-1), a Blueray Disk (HDMI-2), an Apple TV (Component), and a legacy VHS player (Composite). I plan to use the front connections for casual computer, game, and camera connections.

My question is audio. My dolby 5.1 audio head end equipment is located in a different armoire about 6' away from the video equipment. I would like to be able to use the Panny's internal speakers for casual viewing (news shows, video games, etc.), but kick in the big system for HD movies, etc.

1) If I connect the Panny audio to my Dolby 5.1 system via the optical or dual RCA connections will I still be able to decode the 5.1 sources accurately?.

2) What type of connection/switching scheme would provide the best audio experience from the sources? In other words should I bypass the TV's audio circuitry and provide a separate audio path?

Not much information is available about the audio portion of this unit.

I really appreciate everyone's help!! You guys (and gals) rock! Thanks!

-Tom

if you're seating distance is over 10 ft, you really won't notice a difference between the 720p and 1080p sets. Use the extra money you saved and buy yourself a BD player...

-Vic

I have to disagree with this now that I have returned the TH-C50HD18 and replaced it with the TH-C50FD18. See my comments nine posts above where I stated that I seemed to observe a slight improvement in the picture quality from the HD to the FD. This includes at distances greater than 10 feet. As I type this I'm at my computer which is about 15 feet away.

Finally I went back and checked the specs again, and noticed what I had missed before. Besides the obvious increase from 768p to 1080p (which is in real perceived visual difference very slight, especially over 8-10 feet or so, if at all), the FD has an increased contrast ratio over the HD, "up to 20,000:1" versus "up to 15,000:1"). I know these specs are only relative within the same brand because there is no industry standard. Presuming this difference listed by Panasonic is correct, I feel this might be a very real reason that I am seeing a difference in my perceived improvement in color reality and scene depth. Both my wife and myself, independent of each other, noticed the difference even at the reduced brightness/picture/color settings during the first 100 hours break-in period. We are now over the 100 hours and feel we can clearly see an improvement again at the higher settings both as close as 6 feet and as far away as 25 feet (the kitchen). I am surprised but please by this noticable improvement at an increase of $400. Don't get me wrong, the TH-C 50HD18 is one heck of a bargain with excellent relative PQ on both SDTVand HDTV and outstanding with Blu-Ray. However, we do see a difference both on TV broadcast and DVD's.

I just received costco magazine where it shows a $100 off coupon for the TH-C42FD18 which makes this plasma a very attractive deal.

However, a review on costco's site is complaining about a problem with PC connected via HDMI. My plan is to use this plasma with media center connected via HDMI as well.

My question to those that have this plasma connected to their PC via HDMI: have experienced any problem? Any drawbacks? Can you achieve 1:1 pixel parity in the video card with the 1080x1920 of the display?

I bought the Panny 50FD18 from Costco exactly one month ago.
Thus far quite pleased with it however a couple of issues that I may have.

I noticed on white screens that there is a very light pinkish hue on the left and right sides of the screen and a little greenish in the center. Also on some scenes for example on a start of a movie after the FBI piracy warning, the image that depicts the ratings ( pg13, R, etc ) which is either green or blue that there appears to be some horizontal ghosting from the white fonts.

I dont get the ghosting when white fonts are a pure black background however. My sources are PS3 Blu Ray and also Dish network HD.

Anyone else notice this?

Side note. The screen has done over 110 hours thus far, and was and still is in cinema mode PIC = 59 Br = 50 color = 45 etc..

I just received costco magazine where it shows a $100 off coupon for the TH-C42FD18 which makes this plasma a very attractive deal.

However, a review on costco's site is complaining about a problem with PC connected via HDMI. My plan is to use this plasma with media center connected via HDMI as well.

My question to those that have this plasma connected to their PC via HDMI: have experienced any problem? Any drawbacks? Can you achieve 1:1 pixel parity in the video card with the 1080x1920 of the display?

I connect my TH-C50FD18 with HDMI from a PC.

When I connect my nVidia 6600 DVI to either of the rear HDMI ports it worked but after a power cycle it would hang the TV with a blinking power light. You needed to hold the power button for a while to "reset". I tried my Intel DG965MQ onboard video X3000 DVI connector with the same problem. The front HDMI connector did not have this problem - a search indicated this port was suitable for Game Consoles and had better circuitry, but cables permanently connected to the front are not acceptable to me.

Other threads on this forum suggested ATi cards,specifically the 3450 models. I got a PCI Express ASUS model with VGA, DVI and HDMI ports, and it worked normally on all 3 HDMI ports.
This card also does Blu-Ray decoding in hardware and I was able to watch smooth Blu-Ray from my LG BD drive with only a Core 2 Duo 1.86Ghz on Vista/32.
In case you are interested in the ASUS providing sound over a single HDMI cable, I could get the drivers to show the digital audio device but could not get sound out of the TV through HDMI, there are many reports of problems with the 3450 HDMI sound, and in any case the TV only passes through 2 channel to a receiver anyway, so I use HDMI for video and optical for digital audio.

I later tested an Intel DG45FC motherboard with X4500 on-board graphics and this worked normally on all HDMI ports also, at least for the Bios, I did not load Windows.

Search for Panasonic Plasma Blink problem, there several useful threads.

The 1:1 mapping is beautiful, though I need a high DPI value to be ableto read the text from 8-10 feet! 1080P image slide shows are AWESOME. You need to change the default scaling settings to get 1:1 - check the manual (sorry I forgot which settings).

I am happy with my solution, great value for around $1300.

You might be interested in my PC setup which works in two rooms! :)

TV Room setup:
Panasonic TH-C50FD18 via HDMI*
Comcast digital cable box via HDMI
OTA antenna, works for digital SD and HD OTA*
JVC receiver sVHS for video, Toslink optical for Dolby and DTS via from PC*
JVC VCR video via sVHS, analog audio via receiver
Bose Lifestyle 15 5.1 surround sound system
MS Wireless Entertainment Desktop Mouse and Keyboard (Bluetooth)
Harmony 880 MCE remote
Microsoft MCE Remote (receiver only) USB*

* components connected by wires through wall

PC room setup:
Intel DG965MQ motherboard
Pinnacle 880i digital/analog tuner for SD/HD OTA
ATi HDTV tuner for SD/HD OTA
LG Blu-Ray reader 16x DVD writer drive (now under $100)
Cyberlink PowerDVD 7 (bundled version does not support optical 5.1, need to upgrade)
Microsoft Bluetooth Wireless Desktop keyboard and mouse
Microsoft Bluetooth adapter (picks up keyboards/mice in both rooms, work at same time)
ASUS 3450 graphics card
Hi-res Monitor for 1080P clone mode or single display > 1080P resolutions
Vista Ultimate (very large DPI suitable for 10' interface in TV room)
ATi utility with key combo switching modes
1080P clone mode for Windows desktop access in either room
1080P mode to Panasonic only for BD playback over HDMI (no ANYDVD)
2048 mode to hi-res monitor only in PC room - I get more use out of the PC now

The slight fan noise from the PC was noticeable when in quiet movie scenes and in summer when higher room temperatures caused higher fan speeds, but now the PC is not audible from TV room. It's so quiet I can hear the plasma buzzing noise a bit :-(

I do have a couple of issues unresolved, but I am happy with almost everything.
-Plasma buzz is slight but sometimes noticeable.
-I removed the speakers on my Pioneer, but the Panasonic are fixed which makes the front face more monolithic when no display. But I now run TV and Cable audio through the TV speakers for casual use, unless I want the sound through the receiver for 5.1.
-Auto Power on/off signal detection does not work as well as my previous Pioneer, which was great. The Panasonic does not detect the PC on/off/standby modes correctly for me, plus it displays a message for about 10 seconds which is distracting, so I manually switch the TV on and off.
-The main issue I have is a noticeable banding/stepping in image areas with slight intensity changes - as though there are too few intensity levels.
I rarely notice it in movies, but I notice it often when viewing graphics like the Vista Media Center background.
-I also have nice dark blacks compared to my Pioneer but feel I am missing detail in the shadows.
Maybe it is my settings, which are not calibrated - more investigation later.

Sorry for the long post, it's been brewing for a while!

This is how I use my 50FD18 (currently in my bedroom)

Antec Fusion case w/430w green power supply (silver)
ATI Radeon 3650 HD low profile card w/HDMI output
LG Bluray/HD DVD SATA Drive
2x Maxtor 1TB SATA HDs
Bluetooth Logitech diNovo Edge Media keyboard w/ built in Touchpad
Tripp Lite SmartPro1000LCD Digital UPS Backup with AVR

Hooked it up to every HDMI port front and back. Works great with my Media Center, no under/overscan issues. I'll post pictures later

Hi All,
Came to the board just recently because I finally talked my wife into upgrading from our old CRT to plasma, and have picked up a lot of info here in the last month researching sets.

I'm considering the TH-C46FD18, and have been comparing it to the pz80u and pz85u. I know that it has been claimed that the FD18 is the same set as the pz80u, except with the pc input.

On panasonic's website, I've noticed that the while the pz80u has the "video noise reduction" and "digital cinema reality" features, the FD18 is listed as N/A for these features.

-Is this true, or is panny mistaken on their own website?
-what are these features? when are they useful?

Thanks for the help!

On panasonic's website, I've noticed that the while the pz80u has the "video noise reduction" and "digital cinema reality" features, the FD18 is listed as N/A for these features.

-Is this true, or is panny mistaken on their own website?

Thanks for the help!

I answered my own question. the FD18 has both these features. For those interested, here is a link to the TH-C46FD18 manual:

http://

service.us.panasonic.com/OPERMANPDF/THC46FD18.PDF

sorry, this forum won't let me post links till I've posted 3 times, so you'll have to piece it together yourselves.

I connect my TH-C50FD18 with HDMI from a PC.

When I connect my nVidia 6600 DVI to either of the rear HDMI ports it worked but after a power cycle it would hang the TV with a blinking power light. You needed to hold the power button for a while to "reset". I tried my Intel DG965MQ onboard video X3000 DVI connector with the same problem. The front HDMI connector did not have this problem - a search indicated this port was suitable for Game Consoles and had better circuitry, but cables permanently connected to the front are not acceptable to me.

Other threads on this forum suggested ATi cards,specifically the 3450 models. I got a PCI Express ASUS model with VGA, DVI and HDMI ports, and it worked normally on all 3 HDMI ports.
This card also does Blu-Ray decoding in hardware and I was able to watch smooth Blu-Ray from my LG BD drive with only a Core 2 Duo 1.86Ghz on Vista/32.
In case you are interested in the ASUS providing sound over a single HDMI cable, I could get the drivers to show the digital audio device but could not get sound out of the TV through HDMI, there are many reports of problems with the 3450 HDMI sound, and in any case the TV only passes through 2 channel to a receiver anyway, so I use HDMI for video and optical for digital audio.

I later tested an Intel DG45FC motherboard with X4500 on-board graphics and this worked normally on all HDMI ports also, at least for the Bios, I did not load Windows.

Search for Panasonic Plasma Blink problem, there several useful threads.

The 1:1 mapping is beautiful, though I need a high DPI value to be ableto read the text from 8-10 feet! 1080P image slide shows are AWESOME. You need to change the default scaling settings to get 1:1 - check the manual (sorry I forgot which settings).

I am happy with my solution, great value for around $1300.

You might be interested in my PC setup which works in two rooms! :)

TV Room setup:
Panasonic TH-C50FD18 via HDMI*
Comcast digital cable box via HDMI
OTA antenna, works for digital SD and HD OTA*
JVC receiver sVHS for video, Toslink optical for Dolby and DTS via from PC*
JVC VCR video via sVHS, analog audio via receiver
Bose Lifestyle 15 5.1 surround sound system
MS Wireless Entertainment Desktop Mouse and Keyboard (Bluetooth)
Harmony 880 MCE remote
Microsoft MCE Remote (receiver only) USB*

* components connected by wires through wall

PC room setup:
Intel DG965MQ motherboard
Pinnacle 880i digital/analog tuner for SD/HD OTA
ATi HDTV tuner for SD/HD OTA
LG Blu-Ray reader 16x DVD writer drive (now under $100)
Cyberlink PowerDVD 7 (bundled version does not support optical 5.1, need to upgrade)
Microsoft Bluetooth Wireless Desktop keyboard and mouse
Microsoft Bluetooth adapter (picks up keyboards/mice in both rooms, work at same time)
ASUS 3450 graphics card
Hi-res Monitor for 1080P clone mode or single display > 1080P resolutions
Vista Ultimate (very large DPI suitable for 10' interface in TV room)
ATi utility with key combo switching modes
1080P clone mode for Windows desktop access in either room
1080P mode to Panasonic only for BD playback over HDMI (no ANYDVD)
2048 mode to hi-res monitor only in PC room - I get more use out of the PC now

The slight fan noise from the PC was noticeable when in quiet movie scenes and in summer when higher room temperatures caused higher fan speeds, but now the PC is not audible from TV room. It's so quiet I can hear the plasma buzzing noise a bit :-(

I do have a couple of issues unresolved, but I am happy with almost everything.
-Plasma buzz is slight but sometimes noticeable.
-I removed the speakers on my Pioneer, but the Panasonic are fixed which makes the front face more monolithic when no display. But I now run TV and Cable audio through the TV speakers for casual use, unless I want the sound through the receiver for 5.1.
-Auto Power on/off signal detection does not work as well as my previous Pioneer, which was great. The Panasonic does not detect the PC on/off/standby modes correctly for me, plus it displays a message for about 10 seconds which is distracting, so I manually switch the TV on and off.
-The main issue I have is a noticeable banding/stepping in image areas with slight intensity changes - as though there are too few intensity levels.
I rarely notice it in movies, but I notice it often when viewing graphics like the Vista Media Center background.
-I also have nice dark blacks compared to my Pioneer but feel I am missing detail in the shadows.
Maybe it is my settings, which are not calibrated - more investigation later.

Sorry for the long post, it's been brewing for a while!

That's great information. Thank you!

My goal with media center is to use it as video library (rip of all my DVDs) and work as DVR. I am looking to purchase a new PC for that, I don't plan on building one. I think HP s3600t is a good fit. It has NVIDIA GeForce 9300 however.

... a review on costco's site is complaining about a problem with PC connected via HDMI. My plan is to use this plasma with media center connected via HDMI as well.

My question to those that have this plasma connected to their PC via HDMI: have experienced any problem? Any drawbacks? Can you achieve 1:1 pixel parity in the video card with the 1080x1920 of the display?

Here is the thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1001318) I used regarding the HDMI connection/power problem. Panasonic sent me a free HDMI extender that solved my problem. You may not have the problem unless you have a DVI to HDMI cable. Some (newer) graphics adapter support HDMI output. I also posted a workaround for the problem.

Yup, great deals out there right now. I just picked up the 42" variant and am, so far, pleased. Watching it right now! :)

I just picked up the 46" version but for some reason they decided not to put the 46" version on sale today. Only the 42" and 50" had the sale. The only thing I can think of is the fact that the 42" and 50" sizes are more popular and they could probably move more of those, hence lowering the prices.

Anyways, brought it home and lined it up with my older Panny Plasma EDTV. That's right folks, EDTV for people that jumped on the Plasma when it first came out.

Then came the disappointment in the fact that my older EDTV actually looked better in both crispness and color. The 46" looked a lot more blueish out of the box.

I'm really hoping after trying out some calibration settings from these forums, that it will actually look better than my older Panny.

BTW, the source I was referencing was OTA HD News broadcast that is normally broadcasted in 720p. And yes it was so disappointing that I actually made sure I was watching the digital broadcast and not analog. ;)

Will report back after some calibration.

Edit: I realized some flaws in my comparison as I was comparing 42" to 46" and also I wasn't playing the exact same source through both of them(Dish network Local News via component cables to EDTV vs. OTA Local News via rabbit antenna using built in Panny ATSC tuner). I'm in the burn in process now and hope to calibrate it afterwards.

n1div, I'm really interested in your thoughts on the EDTV to "Real HDTV" jump. I have a gen 7 37" Panny EDTV and have been really fighting hard not to jump on this deal. I have in my head that a 1080P TV with 20000:1 contrast ratio should blow away my 480P TV with 4000:1 contrast ratio. My gut tells me that if and when I get it home, I might be a bit disappointed and not as happy at I think I will be. Fill me in on if your happy with the new TV. Thanks!

I just bought the TH-C42FD18 today at 2pm PST at Costco. They had about 10 in stock, priced at $799 as advertised. Wonder what the deal is with it not being online. It was this morning...

p.s. The TV is fantastic. I'm watching home alone 3 just because its on and I can. Hahaha.

I'm giving this Costco-version set a very serious look, so specs matter :)

Just d/l'd the manual -- thanks for the link!! -- but can't find any references to the "Video Noise Reduction" or "Digital Cinema Reality" features. On what page(s) did you find it?

Thanks in-advance, ...Steve

I answered my own question. the FD18 has both these features. For those interested, here is a link to the TH-C46FD18 manual:

http://

service.us.panasonic.com/OPERMANPDF/THC46FD18.PDF

sorry, this forum won't let me post links till I've posted 3 times, so you'll have to piece it together yourselves.

I'm giving this Costco-version set a very serious look, so specs matter :)

Just d/l'd the manual -- thanks for the link!! -- but can't find any references to the "Video Noise Reduction" or "Digital Cinema Reality" features. On what page(s) did you find it?

Thanks in-advance, ...Steve

What's up steve? I'm pretty sure that video noise reduction refers to the settings seen on pg. 25. I also downloaded both the TH-46PZ80U and TH-46PZ85U manual off of panasonic website, and when I searched those guys for "noise" they show them all having the same settings.

The Cinema reality mode, as far as I can tell, is picture setting (p44-45). Searching "cinema" returns the same results in the other two manuals.

I got a chance to take a look at the TH-C46FD18 in costco over the weekend and they looked ok. The matted plastic bezel looks kinda "cheap" next to the glossy finish bezels of other tv's, similar to what the 80u & 85u have. I was thinking about it though, and I guess that would be better for the picture cause there's less surface to catch reflections on. On the floor of the store, though, the shiny bezels sure are eyecatching ... I can see how they probably help sales.

I plan on going through the manuals of all 3 a little closer before this weekend to compare ... not that I expect to find anything that will keep me from buying the costco version, but I'll post what I find.

Here are the other 2 manuals fyi

http://
www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/support/Televisions/VIERA-Plasma-HDTVs/model.TH-46PZ80U

http://
www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/support/Televisions/VIERA-Plasma-HDTVs/model.TH-46PZ85U.H

n1div, I'm really interested in your thoughts on the EDTV to "Real HDTV" jump. I have a gen 7 37" Panny EDTV and have been really fighting hard not to jump on this deal. I have in my head that a 1080P TV with 20000:1 contrast ratio should blow away my 480P TV with 4000:1 contrast ratio. My gut tells me that if and when I get it home, I might be a bit disappointed and not as happy at I think I will be. Fill me in on if your happy with the new TV. Thanks!

My $.02 is if you plan on watching blue rays a lot and/or the current contrast ratios really bother you in most of your viewing, then I would say it's worth a switch to this TV especially at this price.

However I don't notice anything dramatic watching SD/HD tv and SD DVD's with the new set. As for contrast ratios, there are only a few times I wish it was higher on my older set. One recent moment I can think of was when watching "Asylum"(dumb movie but had a lot of dark scenes in it).

This leads me to believe the older EDTV had a good converter on them as my old set still looks better than 1/2 of the newer 720p sets that some of my friends have.

Actually, I didn't even think to buy a new TV just yet but the entertainment nook that I completed only fit the 42", until the 46" came on the market. That's when I had the idea to max out that space and found that a 46" would barely fit, hence my upgrade.

Edit: I've finally logged over 120 hours on my burn in disc and had time to adjust it. I found a lot of the settings for the PZ80u on another post didn't seem to suit the costco TV very well(to my eyes at least).

But once I started straying from those settings with my own, it made a dramatic improvement over any of the stock settings and started looking as good if not better than my older Panny Plasma.

It might not be the reference d'facto but subjectively, it looks great now.

Anyone care to share some of their specific Panny Costco Plasma settings?
I'm still refining mine as I just finished burn in and will post soon.

Could someone with a TH-C42FD18 please measure the exact width down to 1/32" (or millimetres). I need to know this because if it fits it will be going into a tight spot (just bezel). On the Canadian Viera page it states 40.2" or 1020mm. I'm hoping it's closer to the 1020mm number since that's 40.157".

Thanks a lot!

n1div,

Thanks for the update, you probably saved my a grand! I think I'm going to wait for the next gen panels or LED backlight LCDS. There is nothing wrong with my current TV, I just had that "upgrade itch"!

I got the TV from Costco and the Panasonic rep was there while I was looking at it. He was pretty clueless though (LOL), he did say the model was the same as the 80u minus the flat vs. high glossy bezel, which I already knew. I prefer the flat bezel, no reflections.

I should have checked this TV out more carefully, I kinda jumped the gun because the $100 buck off sale ended that day and I was in a hurry, I figured I had 90 days to evaluate it. 1080P for $800 bucks plus tax.

I have not calibrated. Need to wait 100 hours.

The picture on a HD signal is good through Time Warner. TW compresses HD signals. SD is ok. Not complaining on that though, for SD I just go to another room and watch on a CRT. The just mode or stretch mode is a joke, like any TV trying to fit a 4:3 image into a 16:9 format. People are not in proportion. Use zoom or wait 100 hours before using side bars.

My number one pet peeve with this Plasma and I guess all Panasonic's now is the anti-reflective "filter" as they call it. I thought it was an internal filter like a comb filter. It is really a screen coating they use and goes over the outer glass panel of the Plasma or a plastic panel itself that goes over the glass. Anyone???

Does the job to reduce reflections but takes away from the vibrant picture of a true plasma. You have to turn up the brightness to get a good picture and is still not as good as through pure glass. Check out an old HDCRT if you know someone who has one. You will see a true picture.

Plus, the screen coating is very susceptible to scratches or solvents, which is bad. The manual states to use a cleaning cloth and then very softly. You would think they would provide one that wont scratch the surface. If they had left the glass screen alone you could clean it like a CRT with windex or whatever.

My suggestion to anyone that is going to keep this TV is go to any eyeglass store and get a large cleaning cloth for use on plastic glasses. As far as removing smudges and oils (someone who touches the screen), I don't know, the manual says to use soapy water. I would be careful with that, as a lot of soaps have degreasers etc. added to them. I called Panasonic tech support and the guy I reached was clueless (LOL).

Panasonic is ruining their displays, trying to make them like an LCD, with zero reflections.

I will keep through the bowl season to further evaluate, I will let you know about fan noise , circuit board noise or other pluses or minuses.

Can someone recommend a burn in disk? should I run all night long? or let TV cool down?

If I cant deal with the anti reflection screen issues then I will return it and get an LG; they don't utilize anti reflective coatings, that I know of. I will evaluate. Don't care about reflections, I want a better picture and I don't want to worry about scratching the surface, even if the set is only $800.00. LG is only 1024x720 though.

Why did they stop making the HDCRTs?

Good luck all.

I shopped around for awhile, as have many people on this forum. Many, many, many people here have picked this TV over other plasma and lcds. I've yet to read any serious complaints or hear anyone return it because of the anti-reflection.

All manuals for all screen types tell you to clean them the same way. You should already have micro-fiber clothes to clean your electronics.

How do I order or even get a TH-C42FD18 in Canada? It's not listed on either the US or Can website and they only cary the C50FD18 and C42HD18 in my local Costco. Is it true what the local Costco electronics rep said that I just have to basically wait until they flush through stock and carry it again?

I just purchased the TH-C46FD18 this past Sunday.

I read through all the forums on what flat panel to purchase to replace my old 32 JVC CRT. After days AND DAYS of researching and looking at store models my head was spinning. Then I ran into the Costco deal by accident last week. I have to say..for under 1k...I highly doubt there is any other tv that can compete. This thing is beautiful. I was on the edge between this and the Samsung 550...I am VERY happy I went with the Panny instead. Unreal value for the money. My parents and a friend picked up this deal as well and are loving it also.

Just my two cents. :)

the TH-C42HD18 is near $1k in Canada.. I shudder to think what they will charge when the FD18 is available here. They're currently charging $500 more for the 50FD18 in Canada over the States too..

I'm considering buying either the th-c46fd18 or the th-c42fd18 from Costco between now and the New Year but have a few questions before I pull the trigger. What is 24p playback (on this set) vs 24p Cinematic playback (not on this set)? Will this TV play a film at 24 fps (frames per second)? If it will does it require a blu-ray player that will eliminate the 3:2 pulldown or does it do it on it's own? I've asked around and nobody at any of the better shops in the area has been able to answer this question. This is somewhat important to me due to work reasons. Also, I did look at the 800 series sets and they do look much better but cost 1K more so I was also wondering if I could add an external video processor to get a better quality image, hopefully better than the 800s. If I had my way, and a winning lottery ticket, I'd buy the Kuro but it's just too darn expensive and these TVs seam to be a very very good deal at Costco.
Thanks!

Thank you Panasonic and Costco for this FD18 model I was going to get a LCD for one reason only and that was they have thin and matte finished bezels, black shinny to me is to distracting as are most Plasmas. Plasma is what I wanted and when I saw the 46fd18 with the matte finish and at this price I couldn't believe it. For the price of a Vizio LCD I got walked out of there with a 46 inch plasma a Sony BX-1 BlueRay player and a 8 count box of baked potatoes. I will post what I think of the setup tomorrow when I get it setup. I will be using a HD DVR from TimeWarner cable and the BX-1, no HT yet will most likely get a Sony CT-100.

Ok, I am now convinced...

I'm convinced that Panasonic is sorting their panels into two bins during their manufacturing process. The ones that pass all tests get the PZ80U label. The ones that have one or two dead pixels get the FD18 label.

Let me first state that I am a perfectionist. I don’t consider a TV of this caliber to be a small purchase, even if I did only pay $799 + CA sales tax. This is a huge bargain, but I adopted a zero tolerance policy when it came to dead pixels. I even called Panasonic and consulted them on the matter after my first purchase (see below). They agreed that my expectations were not too high - that I should expect all pixels to be working. They assured me that one or two dead pixels was the *exception* rather than the norm.

I have now found dead pixels in *three* consecutive Costco TH-C42FD18 TVs, directly out of the box! The first one had a dead red pixel right smack in the middle, and a dead green pixel up and to the right. This is when I checked my expectations with Panasonic. Feeling reassured, I purchased a second unit and brought home TV #2: dead red pixel left of center. I figured I can’t be that unlucky, so I exchanged TV #1 and brought home TV #3: dead blue pixel towards the lower right! Ahhh!

I can only conclude that I’m asking too much from this warehouse model. I can’t fathom why Panasonic’s plant in Mexico could miss such obvious flaws in production. It’s a pretty simple test to perform. It took me all of 5 minutes to fire up each one and test the three solid colors (red, green, and blue) using the SD break-in slide show mentioned in other posts.

I've decided to return TV #2 and live with the dead blue pixel in TV #3. Maybe it's just my eyes, but the missing blue pixel is much less obvious than the red or green pixels missing on the first two. If I step back about three feet I can't even make out the little black dot in the middle of the otherwise blue screen. My local Costco is just around the corner, and their return policy is great, but I’m tired of hauling TVs back and forth now. It’s time to finish the break-in and hope that no more pixels die along the way.

Regards,
Scott

Your luck sucks. I didn't even know Plasmas could get dead pixels. I thought it was an LCD thing. I still would have bought a Plasma over an LCD, the picture on an LCD just does not look real to me.

I have not noticed any dead pixels, just watching TV.
Maybe I should run the Pixel test myself, I guess you need to download a program, do you have a link?

If I find dead pixel(s) that bother me I will return to Costco.

What I really like about the Costco model is the flat finish bezel.. Don't know why they changed the old look, flat silver and thin bezels. The high gloss black thick bezels on TVs today suck.

Imagine if you bought a Plasma from a few yrs back, even Pioneer and Sony didn't have true 720P (1366x768), much less 1080P on their 42" plasma's. Imagine getting bad pixels after spending thousands of dollars.

The pixel thing on LCDs, Plasmas is exactly why CRTs rule and are still the king for the best picture. Plus the things lasts 20 plus yrs, and don't need calibration.

SED is the answer. I think.

I have not noticed any dead pixels, just watching TV.
Maybe I should run the Pixel test myself, I guess you need to download a program, do you have a link?


The pixel test is nothing more than running the attached break-in slides that I pulled from some other post on this forum. Note: this version has a corrected slide09. The original slide09 was reported to be exactly the same as slide08. Some guy modified it and reposted. Just download them onto a SD card and select them individually, or put them on slide-show mode. Look for little black pixels as the solid colors flash on the screen. In most cases I found that only a specific color will be dead in any case. In other words a specfic pixel may be capable of displaying blue and green, but not red. I'd be interested in knowing what you find in yours! Keep your fingers crossed!!! ;-)

Regards,
Scott

Well I got my 46fd18 hooked up today and I'm very happy with the picture on this set. I have my Time Warner DVR hooked up with a Hdmi cable, I thought the audio worked with Hdmi, I had to hook up RCA red and white to get sound. I 'm not going to do breakin dvd or sd pics I just lowered the setting and keep the screen filled. Best part so far,picture and the matte flat biszel love it NO SHINE.

I don't know about a dead pixels but in the Costco in my area they had one of the 42fd18 laying on its side on top of some other boxes that were up right. I told the guy working in the area and he said it is OK as long as the panel side is facing up! So it may not be Panasonics fault.

I did not notice any dead pixels. I have done some research on this pixel thing. It appears to me you have stuck pixels and not dead pixels.

According to "Pixel Protector" site:

There are two kind of problematic pixels, dead pixels and stuck pixels. A dead pixel is a pixel that the connection on the board has broken irrevocably. A stuck pixel is a pixel where the 'filter', for want of a better word, has frozen it isn't technically broken as the connections are still there but the crystal is stuck., Dead pixels is a colloquialism for stuck pixels, a truly dead pixel is not possible to fix. They claim their DVD can fix stuck pixels by using different screen washes that are included on the disk.
I saw it for sale at Amazon: Google search: "Pixel protector." I think you can rent it from Netflix or maybe try Blockbuster.

I also found another online program you can burn for free to a DVD and then run it through your DVD player:

jscreenfix.com

Also, my research has shown that dead and stuck pixels can develop later during the life of the Plasma. Even Pioneer's get/have stuck pixels. Although they probably have better quality control before they ship, since they charge $3K. So I think we are all doomed in time. My LCD computer monitors are 4 yrs old and are fine though.

My guess is no one is noticing these stuck pixels when watching TV greater than 3 feet away. And are definitely less noticeable on a 1080P with 2,073,600 pixels, due to the small size. Like you said you need to be one or two feet away to notice, and even then you need a stagnant picture. Cant imagine you would notice multiple stuck pixels watching football or basketball. One poster on another site said he doesn't go looking for them, ala Ignorance is bliss. Meaning he does not want to know since he cant notice anyway from 5 feet out.

Let me know if you download the screen fix or get the DVD and if it works for you. Since we all will get a few stuck pixels in the future.

My last advise, is in a couple of more months if it still bothers you and you couldn't fix the stuck pixels return it again. I agree with you, 800 bucks is 800 bucks. Just get your money back. Costco is great.

LCDs and Plasmas suck. But there is no choice. CRT is gone, and was never there for greater than 34". My 10 yr old trinitron CRT in SD is perfect, the picture is better that the Plasma, and with a small screen the resolution is close to 1080 on a 42 inch size TV, simple math.

SED, FED, and maybe OLED are the future.

Nothing is built like it use to.. Japanese electronics from the 1960s and 1970s are gone forever. Even Pioneer Elite is junk compared to 1975. I still have my Dads Pioneer sx-1080 receiver from 1979. Now that thing is quality.

90% of electronics today is made in China, Mexico. Junk and throw away. Blu-ray players will be 50 bucks in two yrs. You would never see bad pixels on a new Plasma if it were made in 1975 in Japan. They would not ship it. Period.

Good luck.

Guys I just hooked up my TH-C42FD18 with Time Warner cable going directly into the coaxial input. I haven't tried a cable box yet. SD looks pretty poor. Digital channels are better and HD looks fine.

I have a 42" 9UK commercial model in the kitchen and SD is fantastic using component out of a Time Warner HD DVR. The 9uk is a 720p set.

Would I get a noticeably better SD picture with the 720p model from Costco?

I am going to run the break-in DVD for 100 hours and then hook to a cable box using Component cables and see if there is any improvment.

This TV is slated for being put above a bar in my basement with a viewing distance of 8.5 feet. If someone can confirm the 720p model would look better at this distance I will return it and get the cheaper model.

My main TV in the basement for theater will be the 50" Kuro model so 1080p isn't that important for the TV that will be above the bar. Mostly watching sports. The TV was a great price at $799 and returning it is kind of a pain but I will for better SD.

Thanks.

So I bought the 46" FD18 a couple weekends ago, and must say that I am thrilled with my purchase. The thing is hooked up to a Sony HT-7200DH home theater that sounds great. I've got comcast cable, with everything hooked up through HDMI.

The TV looks AWESOME, even with the picture and brightness turned down to 25. I haven't gotten much chance to watch it since I've been quite busy, but from what I've seen it looks really nice. I'm not much of a videophile, so the out-of-the-box settings look great to me, but after it gets some viewing hours under it's belt, I am surely planning on trying to mess around with the settings just b/c I can -- If I've learned one thing, it's that there's a wealth of information on these forums. I just started playing the break in DVD yesterday in an effort to make the hours pass a little faster.

As a huge sports fan coming from a crappy old 22" CRT, i'm in heaven. Costco was great. I plan on using the membership now that I have it. I got signed up for a AmEx card (since they don't take anything else) and got 3 months same as cash. Nice little bonus. Nothing but great things to say so far.

I did not notice any dead pixels. I have done some research on this pixel thing. It appears to me you have stuck pixels and not dead pixels.

According to "Pixel Protector" site:

There are two kind of problematic pixels, dead pixels and stuck pixels. A dead pixel is a pixel that the connection on the board has broken irrevocably. A stuck pixel is a pixel where the 'filter', for want of a better word, has frozen it isn't technically broken as the connections are still there but the crystal is stuck., Dead pixels is a colloquialism for stuck pixels, a truly dead pixel is not possible to fix. They claim their DVD can fix stuck pixels by using different screen washes that are included on the disk.
I saw it for sale at Amazon: Google search: "Pixel protector." I think you can rent it from Netflix or maybe try Blockbuster.

I also found another online program you can burn for free to a DVD and then run it through your DVD player:

jscreenfix.com

Also, my research has shown that dead and stuck pixels can develop later during the life of the Plasma. Even Pioneer's get/have stuck pixels. Although they probably have better quality control before they ship, since they charge $3K. So I think we are all doomed in time. My LCD computer monitors are 4 yrs old and are fine though.


Thanks for sharing your reserch on this topic! I guess mine is stuck rather than dead, although it is not stuck in the sense that is always displaying the same color. The one pixel that continues to malfunction can display red and green just fine. Even black is fine. It just can't display blue very well. If I get my nose right up to the solid blue screen the pixel in question remains black, although it also appears to flicker as if it is trying real hard to turn blue. It certainly isn't solid blue like all the others.


My guess is no one is noticing these stuck pixels when watching TV greater than 3 feet away. And are definitely less noticeable on a 1080P with 2,073,600 pixels, due to the small size. Like you said you need to be one or two feet away to notice, and even then you need a stagnant picture. Cant imagine you would notice multiple stuck pixels watching football or basketball. One poster on another site said he doesn't go looking for them, ala Ignorance is bliss. Meaning he does not want to know since he cant notice anyway from 5 feet out.


Agreed! Even with a solid blue screen I have trouble identifying the bad pixel from >2 ft away. For some reason the stuck pixels that couldn't display red or green were much more noticable to me, but only with a solid color background. A black pixel against a sea of green or red stood out much more to me. The solid blue screen is less bright overall I guess. Now that I'm watching regular programming I probably wouldn't be able to see any of them.


Let me know if you download the screen fix or get the DVD and if it works for you. Since we all will get a few stuck pixels in the future.


Sure, but don't wait for this. This pixel is quickly falling off my priority list. You should have seen my wife's reaction when I showed her why I returned the previous *two* TVs! ;-)


My last advise, is in a couple of more months if it still bothers you and you couldn't fix the stuck pixels return it again. I agree with you, 800 bucks is 800 bucks. Just get your money back. Costco is great.


I'm already past the point of caring about this pixel. Now that I've got my Tivo HD hooked up, the Comcast cable signal looks great! I couldn't be happier with the picture on this TV!


LCDs and Plasmas suck. But there is no choice. CRT is gone, and was never there for greater than 34". My 10 yr old trinitron CRT in SD is perfect, the picture is better that the Plasma, and with a small screen the resolution is close to 1080 on a 42 inch size TV, simple math.

SED, FED, and maybe OLED are the future.

Nothing is built like it use to.. Japanese electronics from the 1960s and 1970s are gone forever. Even Pioneer Elite is junk compared to 1975. I still have my Dads Pioneer sx-1080 receiver from 1979. Now that thing is quality.

90% of electronics today is made in China, Mexico. Junk and throw away. Blu-ray players will be 50 bucks in two yrs. You would never see bad pixels on a new Plasma if it were made in 1975 in Japan. They would not ship it. Period.

Good luck.

Agreed! I'm replacing a 32" Sony FD Trinitron WEGA KV-32HV600 TV that has a 16:9 mode on a DVI input. The HD picture on this TV is remarkable - it's just too small.

Thanks again for your reply!

Scott

Does anyone care that these units use 400 to 500 watts per hour?

Does anyone care that these units use 400 to 500 watts per hour?What do you mean by "use 400 to 500 watts per hour"? Where did you get those figures? And hourly? :)

Crutchfield came up with at 10 cents a kilowatt & the tv on for 6 hours a day the cost per momth would be:
42" PZ80 $3.10
50" PZ80 $4.81

Remember just like your car can go 100 miles an hour doesn't mean you are running it at 100 miles an hour at all times so that spec. is probably a max wattage?

I do not believe the Crutchfield numbers especially when Panasonic posts numbers of 573 watts. I have a Kill-A-Watt gizmo and I took it to the store to confirm the numbers.

In VIVID mode - the device showed that the TV was using 400 to 500 watts (per hour). In Standard mode the watt usage went down to 250 to 300 watts but the picture looked dim.

With a focus on environmental friendliness, energy efficiency and all .... I wonder why the Panasonics are such PIGS.

I know that anyone that can afford a $1,300 TV should be able to afford the electricity as well but the other concern is that high wattage leads to more heat which leads to more Air Conditioning usage during the summer and more heat also leads to electronic deterioration (or so I hear but this could be wrong)

.... These Panasonics are the "HUMMERS" of the TV world

Update - All the light bulbs in my house are energy efficient flourescent bulbs.

Have you measured any other plasma's for comparison? I am concerned that without a comparison you may not know which set really is your "Hummer."

Yes I measured a few other plasma TVs in Best Buy just as a reference and on average they appeared to be about 100 watts less.

I did not write down the models because I was shopping for the Panasonic because of the good reviews (and affordability).

IMHO - the Panasonics are Hummers

... while the Panasonic plasmas are great from a price/performance perspective and they do their job well (just like a Hummer does) there is a drawback

Imagine 500,000 Panasonic Plasma TV each using an extra 100 watts on average - this is 50 megawatts of power each and every hour in the US.

Note - three LCD displays that I tested (same screen size) on average used 200 to 250 watts per hour

Does anyone care that these units use 400 to 500 watts per hour?

I'm going to assume you mean they use 400-500 watts or, more conventionally, consume .5KWH per hour. I have a 46PZ85 and a kill-a-watt. It reports 90W with no input signal, 181W with a 20% field and 525W with a 100%. This is in standard mode with some calibration for my viewing room in daylight. The point here is that uncontrolled measurements may be deceptive.

This is not to say that this unit is typical nor to suggest that Panasonic units use more or less power than comparable plasma displays from other manufacturers but I think it's safe to say the panel uses most of the power and since Matsushita (Panasonic) makes a lot of panels one needs to be careful of comparisons. The only easy comparison at this time is likely to be Panasonic versus Samsung.

Are the Whites on these plasmas always dull? I've had the 46fd18 for 2 weeks now with Time Warner HD and SonyBX-1 all hooked up via HDMI and no matter what I set The picture and brightness setting to white is always gray to light blue in fact the intirer screen seems to be dull gray is this normal?, The over all color quality is excellent in fact the picture on this tv amazing but I'm not sure if I can get past the dull appearance.I'm watching the Dallas Cowboy game on Fox HD and the Cowboys uniforms are more blue than white. Anyone else?

Are the Whites on these plasmas always dull? I've had the 46fd18 for 2 weeks now with Time Warner HD and SonyBX-1 all hooked up via HDMI and no matter what I set The picture and brightness setting to white is always gray to light blue in fact the intirer screen seems to be dull gray is this normal?, The over all color quality is excellent in fact the picture on this tv amazing but I'm not sure if I can get past the dull appearance.I'm watching the Dallas Cowboy game on Fox HD and the Cowboys uniforms are more blue than white. Anyone else?Whites on a 1080p plasma do often turn a little gray when a lot of white is displayed on the screen so this is somewhat normal, but it shouldn't be too bad.

What is your Picture Setting?

What is your Brightness setting?

Which Picture mode are you using (Standard, Custom, etc)?

Is your Color Temp set to Cool, Normal, or Warm?

Do you have the CATS setting turned OFF or ON?