I am starting to see it online for sale and want to start this thread for owners of this unit.

http://www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/shop/Televisions/VIERA-174-Flat-Panel-HDTVs.list.103502_11002_7000000000000005702

What I like about this unit are the extra features in this set compared to the 800U. I like that it offers "Pro" setting and Studio Reference mode as added features as well as others and was wondering if anyone else thought the extra cost ($500 est.) was worth it?

My father just got the 46" 800 for which I love the picture. It's probably one of the first sets that I can stand 4 feet back from and not notice horrible flaws. My problem tends to be once I notice a flaw in a set, unless I'm sitting very far back, I tend to keep noticing the problem. The set's not perfect, but it's the first HD set I've seen that can satisfy my picky eyes.

I ordered my TH-50PZ850U just a few days ago. I get the EPP price so the price difference isn't quite as big for me.

The main advantages of the 850 series that pulled me in were the Pro settings and the studio reference mode. I might get around to playing movies from the SD card slot once in a while, but then again may never use it.

I'm hoping the 24p modes for BlueRay don't bother me as some people with the 800's have reported. I haven't seen 24p on the 800 in person yet so I'm going on faith that my eyes will ignore any side effects. Worst case, I'm back to what every other TV on the market does, with the 3:2 pulldown.

No shipping date yet, but will continue to keep y'all updated.

I have to wait till the end of this month before I can order mine. You mention (flaws), could you elaborate a little more on what is ment by that. Are you meaning "screen door effect?"

I will be sitting at 8.5 feet away so I am near the far back seating distance for this type of set which I believe will meet my needs nicely.
The pricing on this set is within my range too. I see that one of the forum sponsors have it at a good price and hope it remains at or becomes lower than what is is now.

You mention the pro settings and studio reference mode as well. In your opinion does that justify the price difference form the 800U?

And I too hope the 24p isn't an issue for me as well. I guess I really don't know what to expect from it as it is now so I don't think I will miss it if it dosen't work.

Thank you for your feedback.

Here's a link to the owner's manual.

http://service.us.panasonic.com/operman/findmanual.aspx?model=TH50PZ850U

I'm an owner:) - but she still isn't here yet. Ordered on Saturday from Panasonic EPP - As soon as she's all set up - I'll give a report, maybe snap a pic or two and post.

Thanks to all for information and advice - collectively, a lot of wisdom on this forum.

Flaws may be too harsh of a word to use. While no TV is perfect (I think the scaler could use a little work) HD sources just look great. I've held onto my 36" Loewe CRT for many years because I just haven't found anything that felt as natural. I don't ever recall seeing a screen door effect with the 800 (I thought that was more of an LCD problem?).

The one thing I will comment on is that while in Best Buy, I love to watch their demo loop ONLY when the material goes dark (i.e. no picture between scenes). That's the best oportunity to see, during a lit situation, how dark these screens can really go. Sure at night with the lights low/off the screen can go dark, but during the day it's nice to see how dark they really will go. The 800 wasn't the darkest screen there. It was the Samsung above it, a 550 if I remember correctly.

In my previous apartment, we were about 7 feet away from the screen so the CRT kept me happy. I knew that I would eventually get a home, which we did last summer, and that if I got anything for the apartment, it would be a smaller set, 42 or maybe 46. In our house, we're about 9 feet back from the screen. The 58" might be more ideal for our room size, but the price curve just isn't looking that good.

I'm a control freak when it comes to tweaking my TV. Any additional knobs to turn gives me that psychological reassurance that I've got things dialed in as best as they possibly can be.

Flaws may be too harsh of a word to use. While no TV is perfect (I think the scaler could use a little work) HD sources just look great. I've held onto my 36" Loewe CRT for many years because I just haven't found anything that felt as natural. I don't ever recall seeing a screen door effect with the 800 (I thought that was more of an LCD problem?).

Plasmas actually suffer from "screen door effect" a good bit more than LCDs, as there's more distance between the pixels.

I wonder if the studio reference mode means that the 850 meets the requiremnt of a black level that is as good as black level when viewed in a theatre and not as black as a plasma could or can get to. If other colors are represented correctly by the mode, wouldn't black be represented correctlly as well?

I bought a TH-50PZ85U 2 weeks ago after nearly 6 months of comparing different makes, models and technologies in the $2k range. It's an awesome unit and I have no regrets.

I wonder if the studio reference mode means that the 850 meets the requiremnt of a black level that is as good as black level when viewed in a theatre and not as black as a plasma could or can get to. If other colors are represented correctly by the mode, wouldn't black be represented correctlly as well?

Nah, black levels will be as low as possible in studio reference mode.

I've only recently started looking at Plasmas as a possible replacement for my CRT, mainly due to price and burn-in fears. Perhaps this latest generation of panels from Panasonic does well to reduce the screen door effect because I've never noticed it.

I've only recently started looking at Plasmas as a possible replacement for my CRT, mainly due to price and burn-in fears. Perhaps this latest generation of panels from Panasonic does well to reduce the screen door effect because I've never noticed it.

SDE is negligible on a 1080p plasma. My only point was that, all thing being equal, plasma SDE is significantly worse than LCD SDE.

I'm specifically looking for 800 vs. 850 reviews. I'm wondering which has better color reproduction, with the 800 THX, vs. the 850 Digital cinema. The EPP price pretty much makes the decsion a wash, the difference is only ~$130.

Thanks!

A big thanks to Chris from Cleveland Plasma, I'll have my TH-50PZ850U this weekend.

I've been waiting a long time for this model release and couldn't be happier. I'll post pics once I get up and running...

A big thanks to Chris from Cleveland Plasma, I'll have my TH-50PZ850U this weekend.

I've been waiting a long time for this model release and couldn't be happier. I'll post pics once I get up and running...

Looking foward to your pictures. I envy you!:D I have to wait ju.......st a few more weeks to get mine.

I have had the 50PZ850U since Tuesday. I bought it from Best Buy for the mid $2000.00. The set looks great in person, but I'm sorry to say the picture quailty is not that great. I returned a Samsung LN52A750 becasue of bad reflections around the screen, but the Samgung is a differnt word...much, much better picture in every way.

I have had the 50PZ850U since Tuesday. I bought it from Best Buy for the mid $2000.00. The set looks great in person, but I'm sorry to say the picture quailty is not that great. I returned a Samsung LN52A750 becasue of bad reflections around the screen, but the Samgung is a differnt word...much, much better picture in every way.

I doubt you bought the 850U for the mid 2000's. It retails for $3500. You probably have the 85U. Totally different animal.

I doubt you bought the 850U for the mid 2000's. It retails for $3500. You probably have the 85U. Totally different animal.

Are telling me I don't know my own purchases?

I purchased my 50PZ850U from Best Buy well below $3000.00. I am watching YOUTUBE as I write this. The TV is nice, but like I stated the picture quality is not anything special, it's kind of just there. I would stay away from this unit if you are looking for that WOW factor in picture quality! The Samsung I returned had a picture that poped, a real WOW factor. The 850 will most likely be returned to BB, I just don't know what to do to replace it. The samgung has that ultra bad reflection.

I have had the 50PZ850U since Tuesday. I bought it from Best Buy for the mid $2000.00. The set looks great in person, but I'm sorry to say the picture quailty is not that great. I returned a Samsung LN52A750 becasue of bad reflections around the screen, but the Samgung is a differnt word...much, much better picture in every way.

I highly doubt this to be true. BB is not selling these things for 1000 dollars off of retail. Sounds fishy all the way around.

Are telling me I don't know my own purchases?

I purchased my 50PZ850U from Best Buy well below $3000.00. I am watching YOUTUBE as I write this. The TV is nice, but like I stated the picture quality is not anything special, it's kind of just there. I would stay away from this unit if you are looking for that WOW factor in picture quality! The Samsung I returned had a picture that poped, a real WOW factor. The 850 will most likely be returned to BB, I just don't know what to do to replace it. The samgung has that ultra bad reflection.

Edit.

I paid what I paid, I can scan my receipt and shut you guys up, but that is not the issue, the sub-par picture quality is!!

Is there any service menu adjustment that can be made?

If you guys really think the price I paid is that outlandishly low and I got that great of a price, I am going to try an like this TV.

JERLANE- If you read the post, I said bad reflective problems.

I paid what I paid, I can scan my receipt and shut you guys up, but that is not the issue, the sub-par picture quality is!!

Is there any service menu adjustment that can be made?

If you guys really think the price I paid is that outlandishly low and I got that great of a price, I am going to try an like this TV.

I didn't mean to come off too harsh. I'm just surprised they would drop the price for a 50 inch set to below the sale price of the 46" set. If that's the case then you really did get a good deal. Unfortunately, from what you're saying the PQ isn't great. I've been through this myself. I had a Pioneer 5070 that I really thought I should like because of the reputation, but it just never knocked my socks off. I now have a 750U that I have been much happier with. Maybe you can adjust the settings and get the picture dialed in better or take some of the money you saved and have it calibrated. If you don't like it now, I doubt you will be any happier in six months. Maybe you should go back to the Samsung if that was more pleasing to your eye.

Oh-yeah, as far as the service menu goes, I wouldn't mess with it. You'd just be asking for trouble.

Golf, what about the picture of the 850U that you did not like? What do you mean by "it's just there. You opinion would be appreciated.

I didn't mean to come off too harsh. I'm just surprised they would drop the price for a 50 inch set to below the sale price of the 46" set. If that's the case then you really did get a good deal. Unfortunately, from what you're saying the PQ isn't great. I've been through this myself. I had a Pioneer 5070 that I really thought I should like because of the reputation, but it just never knocked my socks off. I now have a 750U that I have been much happier with. Maybe you can adjust the settings and get the picture dialed in better or take some of the money you saved and have it calibrated. If you don't like it now, I doubt you will be any happier in six months. Maybe you should go back to the Samsung if that was more pleasing to your eye.

Oh-yeah, as far as the service menu goes, I wouldn't mess with it. You'd just be asking for trouble.
thanks man!
On my BB receipt it says reg 3,499.98, -799.98 match competitor price disc.
Thanks for the info, I will let you know what I end up doing. I hope you enjoy your 850U!!

thanks man!
On my BB receipt it says reg 3,499.98, -799.98 match competitor price disc.
Thanks for the info, I will let you know what I end up doing. I hope you enjoy your 850U!!

Good for you for getting the deal. Maybe this is another example of what our crappy economy is doing and how eager people are to make a sale.

Give it a few weeks and see if it grows on you. If you still don't like it, take it back and go back to the drawing board.

Good luck!

Are telling me I don't know my own purchases?

I purchased my 50PZ850U from Best Buy well below $3000.00. I am watching YOUTUBE as I write this. The TV is nice, but like I stated the picture quality is not anything special, it's kind of just there. I would stay away from this unit if you are looking for that WOW factor in picture quality! The Samsung I returned had a picture that poped, a real WOW factor. The 850 will most likely be returned to BB, I just don't know what to do to replace it. The samgung has that ultra bad reflection.
The Samsung you returned, it was a plasma? I've seen the Samsung plasmas and have always found them inferior to Panasonic. Now the LCD Sammys...they do POP, but you also have all the normal drawbacks of LCD tech.

Anyway...just curious...sorry you aren't thrilled with your 850u, but good deal or no, I'd send it back if you aren't happy.

Are telling me I don't know my own purchases?

I purchased my 50PZ850U from Best Buy well below $3000.00. I am watching YOUTUBE as I write this. The TV is nice, but like I stated the picture quality is not anything special, it's kind of just there. I would stay away from this unit if you are looking for that WOW factor in picture quality! The Samsung I returned had a picture that poped, a real WOW factor. The 850 will most likely be returned to BB, I just don't know what to do to replace it. The samgung has that ultra bad reflection.



After calibration on the 850u the color points should be dead accurate. After calibration the set (any set) is not going to "pop." Don't be a mosquito flying into a bug zapper....well, stop being one, and you will be happy. Also, after breaking it in the PQ should get better.

What do you have your settings at?

The Samsung you returned, it was a plasma? I've seen the Samsung plasmas and have always found them inferior to Panasonic. Now the LCD Sammys...they do POP, but you also have all the normal drawbacks of LCD tech.

Anyway...just curious...sorry you aren't thrilled with your 850u, but good deal or no, I'd send it back if you aren't happy.

I had the new Samsung LCD- LN52A750, superior picture in every way to the Panasonic.

I have tried all different settings in all the picture modes.

I find that the 850’s settings do very little, and also all the menu options look
kind of cartoonish.

The Samsung has at least double the useful setting adjustments of the Panasonic.

If the Samsung didn’t have the halo effect it would be as perfect as you can get for a TV.

I might just return it and wait for the new Sony XBR LCD's to become available.


Thanks

Golf, what about the picture of the 850U that you did not like? What do you mean by "it's just there. You opinion would be appreciated.

The picture is very flat, no life. The color bleeds together, not very sharp.

The best analogy is looking at a picture taken with a 1 to 2 mega pixel digital camera.

My 3 year old Sony LCD rear projection TV has a much shaper picture.

If you like an extremely soft picture you might like the 850U.

The picture is very flat, no life. The color bleeds together, not very sharp.

The best analogy is looking at a picture taken with a 1 to 2 mega pixel digital camera.

My 3 year old Sony LCD rear projection TV has a much shaper picture.

If you like an extremely soft picture you might like the 850U.

Sorry to hear your disappointment with the 850U, but that's the beauty of being the customer. If you don't like it, you're always free to return/exchange it. I am curious, by "not very sharp" do you mean that it looks out of focus? What's the resolution and size of your LCD?

Personally I love the picture on the 800U and can't wait to receive my 850U, tomorrow if they deliver Saturday or hopefully the latest on Monday.

Try shutting C.A.S.T. off

Sorry to hear your disappointment with the 850U, but that's the beauty of being the customer. If you don't like it, you're always free to return/exchange it. I am curious, by "not very sharp" do you mean that it looks out of focus? What's the resolution and size of your LCD?

Personally I love the picture on the 800U and can't wait to receive my 850U, tomorrow if they deliver Saturday or hopefully the latest on Monday.

My Sony projection LCD is 60" and because of the size of the unit I was actually sitting closer. The Panny is only 50"; you would think it would be at least as sharp.

And yes, it does kind of look out of focus and a bit noisy. I think the sheet of glass in the from could be part of the problem.

And I do have the C.A.S.T off, whatever this is; it seems to be worthless…

I just went to CC to look at TV’s again and the new Sammy plasmas (550&650) look much sharper in color and clarity then the Panasonics.

Do we have any other 850 owners on the board? I would be interested in hearing other views on it? Golfer, what do you think about vieracast?

Do we have any other 850 owners on the board? I would be interested in hearing other views on it? Golfer, what do you think about vieracast?

I think it’s kind of cool. You Tube works great and very fast. The weather Channel works great as well with up to date weather reports. The photo gallery works well too, you can search for photo’s right from the TV itself.

Build quality is awesome, as are the looks of the set and the remote is solid. I am going to keep the TV over the weekend and hopefully over time the picture will grow on me.

Keep in mind I am fresh off the LCD and the two are totally different beasts. I guess my eyes like the brighter more vivid picture of the LCD, but time will tell.

I have tried all different settings in all the picture modes.

I find that the 850’s settings do very little, and also all the menu options look
kind of cartoonish.

The Samsung has at least double the useful setting adjustments of the Panasonic.

If the Samsung didn’t have the halo effect it would be as perfect as you can get for a TV.

I might just return it and wait for the new Sony XBR LCD's to become available.


Thanks

Have you tried using the Pro settings on the display yet? How about using a calibration disk to see if that makes the picture look better to you.

I have the Avia disc that I used in pro picture mode, along with the other modes. There might be something in the service menu that can be tweeked to sharpen the picture, i just have not heard of anybody doing this with these units, mostly the Samsungs.

If anybody knows of any service menu tweeks I would love to hear from you.

Thanks!

Update:

The picture has not gotten any better; it is still dull and lifeless.

I just checked out the Samsung 650 plasma and I must say it is a totally different world apart from the 850, better color, sharper picture & way more user picture adjustment.

Before buying the 850 you should look at the Samsung first...

Update:

The picture has not gotten any better; it is still dull and lifeless.

I just checked out the Samsung 650 plasma and I must say it is a totally different world apart from the 850, better color, sharper picture & way more user picture adjustment.

Before buying the 850 you should look at the Samsung first...

Have you tried increasing the contrast? Really they should be equally "sharp"...for the most part all 1080p TVs are equally sharp.

Have you tried increasing the contrast? Really they should be equally "sharp"...for the most part all 1080p TVs are equally sharp.

I have tried adjusting everything in every picture setting mode. I wanted to like this TV, but Panasonic I’m sure used cheap internal components because this TV is at best average!

Some of the adjustments are a joke…

The picture on the Samsung is a different world in picture quality.

Something sounds off - like you might have gotten a faulty set, or there is some picture setting that's not right. My 50PZ800U has a stunning picture on most program material. It's just weird that the 850U could be so different. :confused:

Golfer, can you post pictures of the image on your 850?

I will try and get a picture up tonight, but I don't think a photo will show the flaws I am talking about. It’s not like I have a dramatically bad picture, it’s just not great, by any stretch of the word.

So, I've had the 50PZ850U up and running over the weekend. I muted the settings the first 24hrs and then set things up where I like ‘em and I have to say, very impressed. The blacks are incredible, no banding, nice sharp clean edges against the contrast with other colors. The other colors are great and the reds are hot, but that's to be expected with this set, the 850 color gamut is set higher than other sets.

The settings take time getting used to, for a while I couldn't figure out some of the modes and the various settings being offered. The manual is a bit lacking and doesn't provide a good insight to some of the settings, for some of us non videophiles out there it's a complex maze. ;)

I don't have the VieraCast setup yet, just haven't the time and wasn't the main reason for buying the TV, so it's low on the totem pole.

Build quality is great, the "one sheet of glass" is real nice. Although it does cover the bezel it does have a plastic 1/4" banding edge around the entire set.

For those who are concerned about the audio, this set with a 31W speaker is great for a TV. Nice controls, deep sound and can really put out some serious sound. The "3D sound" controls are nice for some shows, but for general shows, the central audio (voice) tends to be a bit muddled.

The two concerns I have:

I'm not sure if it's an issue with the TV or the source (DirecTV). When I watch SD channels in the stretch mode, I see a few "snowy" horizontal lines at the very top of image. When I go to 4:3 mode, they disappear and I do not see them on any HD channel. So is it a source issue or is the TV having an issue processing the SD image and putting it on to the screen in stretch mode or is this expected?

Second concern. Since this is my first plasma, I wasn't sure if this is expected or considered normal. I noticed that in all 4 corners, the glass gives in a little when pressed slightly and comes away from the plastic banding surrounding the glass. But just in the corners. Not sure if this is a defect or this is how all plasmas are.

Thanks for the info Jersey. Have you tried using the Pro settings to get rid of the "snowy" horizontal lines? I would hope with this set you have the ability to stretch the screen abit. Also have you tired any Blu Ray 24p material on it ala PS3 or other player?

Compaired to what you are saying, sounds to me like Golfer may have himself a set that either is bad or he just dosen't like the look of a plasma.

Enjoy!

The 24P flicker is bad, too bad to use!

I spent a lot of time last night playing around with the settings and this TV really isn't any good, like I said at the beginning, this TV is sub-par.

It's going back to BB in return for the Samsung 650 plasma.

The 24P flicker is bad, too bad to use!

I spent a lot of time last night playing around with the settings and this TV really isn't any good, like I said at the beginning, this TV is sub-par.

It's going back to BB in return for the Samsung 650 plasma.

Before returning it, please do us a favor and scan and post your receipt as you said you would so that we know for sure you are not a Samsung troll. Thanks.

I'm not sure if it's an issue with the TV or the source (DirecTV). When I watch SD channels in the stretch mode, I see a few "snowy" horizontal lines at the very top of image. When I go to 4:3 mode, they disappear and I do not see them on any HD channel. So is it a source issue or is the TV having an issue processing the SD image and putting it on to the screen in stretch mode or is this expected?



Try changing your HD size to 1 instead of 2. In size 2 youhave a direct 1:1 pixel mapping which shows everything the broadcaster includes in its picture. In size 1 you slightly stretch the image to provide 5% overscan to hide this. It's normal and a part of the broadcast signal that carries things like closed captioning.

Before returning it, please do us a favor and scan and post your receipt as you said you would so that we know for sure you are not a Samsung troll. Thanks.

Ok, here you go!

Try changing your HD size to 1 instead of 2. In size 2 youhave a direct 1:1 pixel mapping which shows everything the broadcaster includes in its picture. In size 1 you slightly stretch the image to provide 5% overscan to hide this. It's normal and a part of the broadcast signal that carries things like closed captioning.

I did that. The picture on this set is just not up to par with any of the better sets out there.

This TV should retail for $1,500, not $3,500. This TV at best is Vizio quality!

Does this model have a USB port on the back for the wireless N adaptor?

All I found in the manual is ethernet port? Is there a wireless N adaptor for that?

Does this model have a USB port on the back for the wireless N adaptor?

All I found in the manual is ethernet port? Is there a wireless N adaptor for that?

No USB port. This would be way more useful then the SD card slot!

Ok, here you go!

I see you got the special BB 480HZ model :cool:

I got a TH-46PZ850U a few days ago and it's stunning - you must have a lemon. The break-in DVD is not very interesting although the kids seem to like guessing what color is coming next. I have watched a couple of BDs and some Dish HD content and I am very happy so far. The PQ is among the best I've seen. Once it's broken in I'll post some screen shots.

Steve

I see you got the special BB 480HZ model :cool:

I got a TH-46PZ850U a few days ago and it's stunning - you must have a lemon. The break-in DVD is not very interesting although the kids seem to like guessing what color is coming next. I have watched a couple of BDs and some Dish HD content and I am very happy so far. The PQ is among the best I've seen. Once it's broken in I'll post some screen shots.

Steve

The picture looks good from time to time. The picture is very soft on most HD material, but when I watched CSI Miami last night the picture looked pretty good. I really think the front sheet of class is causing the problem. If you look at the TV from a side angle you can see a double image.

I am pickier then most people and want what I pay for. When I turn on my TV I want to be satisfied every time, not just now and again.

I hope you enjoy your 850U and don’t encounter any problems!!

The picture looks good from time to time. The picture is very soft on most HD material, but when I watched CSI Miami last night the picture looked pretty good. I really think the front sheet of class is causing the problem. If you look at the TV from a side angle you can see a double image.

I am pickier then most people and want what I pay for. When I turn on my TV I want to be satisfied every time, not just now and again.

I hope you enjoy your 850U and don’t encounter any problems!!

the double image is one of the main reasons why i am not getting a panasonic or samsung. the samsung aint as bad, but the pioneer has no ghosting at all

the double image is one of the main reasons why i am not getting a panasonic or samsung. the samsung aint as bad, but the pioneer has no ghosting at all

I’ll tell you, the engineers that work for some of these companies are horrible:

Samsung- how do they let a set go out to market with the horrible halo effect on the A750? Also Samsung has had many problems with TV’s shutting down.

Panasonic- bad picture quality, double image & very bad menu.

I hope one day that one of these companies get it right!!!

So, spend another one or two grand over your 850 and get a pioneer...If you find problems with that then you gotta check yourself.

I see you got the special BB 480HZ model :cool:

I got a TH-46PZ850U a few days ago and it's stunning - you must have a lemon. The break-in DVD is not very interesting although the kids seem to like guessing what color is coming next. I have watched a couple of BDs and some Dish HD content and I am very happy so far. The PQ is among the best I've seen. Once it's broken in I'll post some screen shots.

Steve


Any pics will do, don't make us wait any longer!!!!

So, spend another one or two grand over your 850 and get a pioneer...If you find problems with that then you gotta check yourself.

Thanks for you input MR. Bug Zapper!

Golferadam, have you tried a different source and/or a different cable? Could be a bad source or HDMI cable. Might be worth switching to component cables or a different source just to double-check, if you haven't already. :)

Golferadam, you obviously need to return the 850u, get an lcd or Samsung plasma or whatever floats your boat, and stop posting in this thread. The 850u just isn't working out for you.

Golferadam, you obviously need to return the 850u, get an lcd or Samsung plasma or whatever floats your boat, and stop posting in this thread. The 850u just isn't working out for you.

You just joined this post without any prior input. If you don’t like hearing from me or what I have to say please look elsewhere, I see you’re involved in many posts.

I have a right to inform fellow members of my experiences with products that I personally use; this is what this forum all about!

I've been following this thread, but that doesn't really matter. I enjoy critical reviews as much as the next guy, but it seems like you have a bad set and you've already stated that you will be returning it for a Samsung. I shouldn't have said "stop posting in this thread", that was rude. Good luck.

You just joined this post without any prior input. If you don’t like hearing from me or what I have to say please look elsewhere, I see you’re involved in many posts.

I have a right to inform fellow members of my experiences with products that I personally use; this is what this forum all about!

I've been following this thread, but that doesn't really matter. I enjoy critical reviews as much as the next guy, but it seems like you have a bad set and you've already stated that you will be returning it for a Samsung. I shouldn't have said "stop posting in this thread", that was rude. Good luck.

Thank you!

I have indeed been going on and on about this olny because I am very disappointed.

I’m done; the unit is on its way back to BB.

is the panasonic 850 going to have the same double image from wide angles, as the other models do?

Try changing your HD size to 1 instead of 2. In size 2 youhave a direct 1:1 pixel mapping which shows everything the broadcaster includes in its picture. In size 1 you slightly stretch the image to provide 5% overscan to hide this. It's normal and a part of the broadcast signal that carries things like closed captioning.

Lofty17 - I checked this and yes, I was in size 2. I changed it to HD 1 and problem fixed! Thanks for the headsup!

I happened into BB today and looked at a 1080p Panasonic 50PZ80U and I think I saw what Golf saw - a really poor, blurry image. Right beside it was a LG LCD and it looked terrific with the same images. I own a Panasonic 42" ED that has a better picture than that Panny unit I looked at, and my brother owns a 50PH65U that has a gorgeous picture - as good as any 50" display I have ever seen. Either the unit on display was defective or they had it connected with a composite connection. Regardless I would never recommend something that bad. I didn't have time to suss it out with BB staff, but I may go back. This has me puzzled as Panasonic plasmas have always been tops in their field. Methinks Panasonic has produced some bad units, probably the result of continuous cost-cutting in production/parts, etc. I hope Panasonic gets enough feedback/returns to fix whatever the problem is. Meanwhile, my faithful old ED panel is staying where it is for now.

I happened into BB today and ... I think I saw ... a really poor, blurry image. Right beside it was a LG LCD and it looked terrific with the same images.

Manufacturers just love people like you. But I don't. Why? Because this is THE reason that virtually no HDTVs properly decode REC 709. Thanks a bunch for that. Really. :}

Seriously though, unless you calibrated the two sets for the store viewing conditions, saying one TV looked better than another in the store is completely, utterly without value.

The manufacturers will never start making sets that conform to the HDTV color space standard until consumers aren't influenced by incorrect color, brightness and contrast settings under totally unrealistic viewing conditions.

Remember kids, "Friends don't let friends decide which TV to buy by going to Best Buy."

Nothing personal, but every time I read a post like this it makes me cry.

Why anyone would base what a TV's performance will be in a place like Best Buy over the dimly lit rooms a high-end AV dealer will let you audition in is beyond me.

No-one knows how anything is hooked up, nor what the source is. Unless you can plug in a Blu-ray player yourself and ask them to move it to a dim room, you're not seeing what the TV can do.

GOLFER it definitely sounds like you've got a lemon, because most people that saw the -850 series at CES were very impressed. You should exchange it, run the break-in DVD for a few days, then give it another shot.

If you don't like the 24p setting then you simply don't like the look of film, because that's how it looks in the theatre which is why it's called "filmic"; at 48Hz the eye can catch the refresh rate.

I think people who are used to LCD's will take a while to acclimatize to a plasma, but that "flat" picture as you describe it is often far more close to the original source. Much in the same way that someone who listens to .mp3's all day will balk the first time they hear an SACD on a system with a flat response from 12Hz to 26kHz for example.

does anyone see a difference in the 850u over the 800? i have been given good price offers, i can get the 800 with a warranty or the 850 and no warranty.. is it a big difference?

...Seriously though, unless you calibrated the two sets for the store viewing conditions, saying one TV looked better than another in the store is completely, utterly without value....

Why anyone would base what a TV's performance will be in a place like Best Buy over the dimly lit rooms a high-end AV dealer will let you audition in is beyond me....
Our local BestBuy is a Magnolia store, and those sets are very nicely calibrated. Our local Circuit City also has a nice, dim display area with what appears to be decently calibrated sets, all displaying the same color and at a fairly equal brightness level. At both of these stores, a comparison could be made between sets, even when those are apart by several screen widths. Not all big box stores are set up the same, and no, I don't work for either!

This TV should retail for $1,500, not $3,500. This TV at best is Vizio quality!

You know, I think we all realize you don't like your TV, but that statement can not possibly be correct.

I have a three (or maybe four, I forgot) generations old Panasonic plasma HDTV. The picture quality is superb.

I don't believe for one second the latest generation Panasonic plasma TV picture quality is worse than on mine.

There's either something wrong with your TV unit, or you've got Samsung brainwaves blocking your eyes.

does anyone see a difference in the 850u over the 800? i have been given good price offers, i can get the 800 with a warranty or the 850 and no warranty.. is it a big difference?

You'll find it very difficult to use the VieraCast feature on the 800.

I ordered my 850 online at ABT Electronics on "opening day," and it finally came today!

I put the unit on the pedistal stand (2 man job) for now because it does not match my old Panasonic wall bracket. I was one of the first panasonic plasma owners (TH-50PHD3 -bought in 2002 for the price of a small car!). The old set used a Digital Scaler from Extron to upcovert sources and was a beautiful set. Alas the power supply has died, so I took the upcoming national holiday (Father's Day) as an opportunity to update to the latest and greatest (Thanks kids - I'll deduct it from your college fund).

The picture is tremendous once the pro mode is selected and some adjustments made. I have DirectTV HD connected HDMI through a new Onkyo receiver-switcher (TXSR606) and added my old progressive Sony DVD (BluRay is on order). Both look stupendous and just one wire to the set. Taking time to get the settings right is the key for quality with all TVs. I have work to do with VieraLink for the remote control of components and have yet to connect the ethernet.

I have attached some pics to assist others. Thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences in all the sections to help me choose the right set for me.

@ PApicella.

Could you comment on the extra settings that are on the 850. Such as the PRO settings, studio refrence mode and have you tried any 24p sources?

Enjoy!

I ordered my 850 online at ABT Electronics on "opening day," and it finally came today!

I put the unit on the pedistal stand (2 man job) for now because it does not match my old Panasonic wall bracket. I was one of the first panasonic plasma owners (TH-50PHD3 -bought in 2002 for the price of a small car!). The old set used a Digital Scaler from Extron to upcovert sources and was a beautiful set. Alas the power supply has died, so I took the upcoming national holiday (Father's Day) as an opportunity to update to the latest and greatest (Thanks kids - I'll deduct it from your college fund).

The picture is tremendous once the pro mode is selected and some adjustments made. I have DirectTV HD connected HDMI through a new Onkyo receiver-switcher (TXSR606) and added my old progressive Sony DVD (BluRay is on order). Both look stupendous and just one wire to the set. Taking time to get the settings right is the key for quality with all TVs. I have work to do with VieraLink for the remote control of components and have yet to connect the ethernet.

I have attached some pics to assist others. Thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences in all the sections to help me choose the right set for me.


Thanks for posting pics PApicella.... impressive! Please keep us informed with future updates (as the set breaks in, and as you add a blu-ray player) and more pics!!! :D

You'll find it very difficult to use the VieraCast feature on the 800.


Thanks for the sarcasm. But I'm serious. I have a decision to make and I need help.

My 850 is going to be here Saturday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:D:D:D:D

Thanks for the sarcasm. But I'm serious. I have a decision to make and I need help.


http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-viera-th-50pz850u/4505-6482_7-32896587.html?tag=prod.txt.1


It's not an actual review, but you should take a look at it. The 850 is going to have a wider color gamut. I'd say get the 850, warranty, and calibration. So you gotta decide what you can do. The calibration can wait. Can you wait? Say it takes another 2 weeks to come up with the dough for a warranty. It's only 2 weeks.


This should also help:


EDIT** Search "the 800u owners thread" for 850

Scuba, your second link is dead. Any way you can update it? Also, do you plan on setting up VieraCast on Saturday?

PApicella, when do you plan on setting up VieraCast? Similar to ohzeenyc, I'm debating on the 800 vs the 850 and am extremely interested in VieraCast capabilities.

Link is edited. I am probably going to sleep Saturday....who am I kidding, a new toy has to be played with. Really, I don't know what Saturday is going to bring but Sunday is going to be fun as hell!!

I am new to the forum but I've been monitoring a couple of Pana threads including this one. I saw some comments about flickering and flat picture quality. However, I still took the plunge and ordered a 50PZ850U anyway because the EPP from Panasonic made it very hard to resist. I just hope my baby will get here with no issues (finger-crossed). I will keep everyone posted once I have it setup.

Alright everyone, the TV arrived yesterday. Thanks to my brother coming over, we were able to get it setup on the wall. I will say that after hanging it on the wall mount, cringing at a little wall creaking, and tightening the final screws that I couldn't let go of the TV for at least 7 or 8 minutes.

It was about this point where my Dad came over (perfect timing).

We powered up the set, ran through the normal setup stuff, set the TV to studio reference picture mode, and started watching the basksetball game on ABC and Swingtown on CBS. Wow is all I could say. I knew that in the store the 800 I saw looked impressive, but getting the set under the proper light conditions really allows it to shine. Not only was there an incredible amount of skin, and sweat, detail on the players, but you could tell when people in the crowd were yelling or talking to their neighbor. Nothing about the image felt saturated or flat. The colors were strong and natural.

Around 10pm we switched over to the local news (most are in HD now) and I think I can now say that some of these news anchors need to get new makeup artists. So much detail in the skin almost made me want to switch over to the analog feed. Clothes were beautifully displayed, patterns in dark suits made them feel like they were in the room with you. My Dad commented that one of the women used too much hairspray.

Jay Leno has always had a colorful set and the TV didn't dissapoint here either. From the wood floors, to the city backdrops, things just felt so natural. I wasn't quite as impressed with David Letterman's set, but then again, I've never felt that his was a set that popped. After Leno, Letterman's set felt dull and muted. There was a bit of a softness to the image that wasn't present with Leno.

After my wife went to bed, I turned off the lights and watched a little Conan. During the transition from show to commercial, when the TV went black, there was still a visible rectangle, not much, but enough to make me wonder about dark scenes while in a pitch black room. I very rarely watch in a pitch black room, I usually just dim the ceiling fan lights. This wasn't some CES demo where people file in a see there's a TV showing "black" and then they display some space scene and all of a sudden everyone realizes there were actually 2 TV's on the whole time. Then again, the native contrast ratio of the set isn't a million to one anyway.

The downside to HD Size 2 is that you can sometimes get the flashing white lines at the top of the screen over the SD commercials. Also, maybe it's the national NBC feed or maybe it's the local, but there was a solid yellow line, one pixel wide, on the far left of the display whenever NBC was on. None of the other stations had it. At times I wondered if there was one of the right, but if there was, it wasn't nearly as prominent as the one of the left. It was column 0 of the display so it's not like it was in the middle of the picture, but still caught your eye.

Overall I'm extremely excited about this set and can't wait for the break-in period to be over. Now I just need to re-arrange all of my video connections, DVD and HTPC are moving to HDMI.

Oh, one small note, did a quick test of the Vierra Cast. It required a software update, which took 5-7 minutes to download, a "reboot" of the TV to re-initialize itself, and then one last power-cycle to let me use it again. Played a couple of YouTube videos without issue, checked my local weather (I think the moon phase was off), and saw that the Dow Jones quotes had updated on the Bloomberg preview window. Beyond that, I decided to stay away from that mode for now because of the constant images that are being displayed. I figure YouTube will get some use when friends are over.

I thought Plasma TV's ran in the mid to high 500hz frequencies [i.e. 550-580hZ], 480 sounds low for Plasma.

I've done TONs of research of user and pro reviews on the 800 & 850 panny and all conclude its a stunning accurate color image and AMAZING with its service menu tweaks after ISF calibration. The big difference between 800 and 850 model is the amount of tweaking you can do in the service menu [the hidden menu the tech gods can get into by entering the proper codes]. The 800 has the THX thing [and I was unimpressed with the THX mode.. it totally washed out all the color and softened the picture to an unrealistic haziness (store model @ BB -- possibly one of these 'bad batch' units if turns out there was/is a bad batch in the market place right now -- its possible this was one of them] -- the 800 has limited service menu tweak ability. The 850 on the other hand does not have the THX at all, its a bit closer to ISF with Digital Cinema, but has more than you could ever want to tweak in its service menu (its haven't been limited, like the 800 is (dont mistake this as saying the 800 is bad, the 800 is a very good plasma too) -- you can actually INCREASE its color gamut beyond the 16.77 mill colors too].

As for Golf's postings.. I would agree, it sounds like he has probably has two issues going on, the first being there's something electrically wrong with the unit he got (i.e. its defective) and it probably isn't ISF calibrated (which would be a waste of time/money at this point for him if in fact it is a defective unit). I'd recommend swapping it for another of 50PZ850U before running to change out for a Sammy... Panny's are world recognized for their good Plasma displays. Nothing to lose by swapping for another 850 unit. At the very least you can compare for same result and give a new review stating its the 850 series and/or limit it to a 'bad batch' in the market place.

Even with the digital cinema color, I doubt highly that with both of these sets calibrated, there will be a significantly noticeable difference. Bth are beautiful sets.

Alright this television is official sick! Absolutely stunning. I'm not even a hundred hours into it, so it's only going to get better from here. I can't wait for the 150 mark :D:D:D:D:D:D:D

800U vs 850U and Comanche Moon

Set: 42PZ800U

Last night we watched the first 2 hours of Comanche Moon (recorded 6 hour mini-series OTA). The settings are straight out of the box THX with the “only” change of +2 on “picture”. PQ wise this is the most perfect TV out of the box we have every owned. Everything looks real.

Comanche Moon appears to be on film. The outdoor scenes are so real and accurate it is if you could walk right into them. Skin tones, horses, Brazos River, trees, fake Austin, TX of 1858 (they could have made the buildings more accurate hahahaha). The night scenes are excellent, and just like some film that is not 100% the best, the film grain is visible in total dark pictures; even so this is still a lot better than I have seen on any other HD set by a wide margin. Regarding the film grain, I would consider it ultra minor intrusion into the picture; most would be very hard pressed to see it.

So my seat-of-the-pants rating for Comanche Moon video quality; it gets a PQ rating of 88. Still the Panasonic made it REAL.

I still consider the sound on this set “stellar” too.

This set is destined for the bedroom, and hoping the economy does not collapse, it will be replaced with at least a 50” and preferably at 58” in a few months.

While watching Comanche Moon the only thing I wished for…………..the 42 was 58, making it even more real and life like.

I have a pretty good understanding of the differences between 800U and 850U; but my main question is (this is for a home setting not a store): Will the 850U be as accurate and “on-target” (a perfect world) as the 800U out of the box? Will the 850U have factory defaults producing the accuracy of the “THX” mode via “Studio Reference” mode out of the box? OR will you have to tweak it to death (with the extra picture adjustments) to get there?

This is one of the things I like so much about our 800U, PQ wise it is so “simple” to adjust, there is nothing to adjust, and it’s just great out of the box.

If 850U has the same level of accuracy out of the box that 800U has then I would go for it – but if you have to go into tweak geek world of never ending adjustments, making it difficult to reach the land of THX accuracy, then it may not be for me?

Keep in mind THX is just a name, that in and of itself has no value to me. It is the REAL picture I like, and that is what I would want out of the box with 850U.

I did it, i pulled the trigger on an 800u.. will be here tuesday... I wanted the 850, but I thought it over and made the right choice financially. I know, I know, I will be inferior to you 850 owners. A good friend helped me alot and said that without calibration and alot of service menu tweaks, the picture should be comparable... I hope he's right...lol...

First Post - Ordered the 50PZ850U based on the numerous oustanding reviews of Panny plasmas past and present (thanks AVS Members!) Can anyone help with adjustment settings once installed (hopefully arriving today :D)? I have heard reducing brightness during burn-in, etc, however, am equally interested in picture quality.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1039589

I've had my 50PZ850 for 10 days now and have slightly mixed reaction. Strong highs, some mid-minor lows. I haven't really explored the TV very much yet and have only run it for 30-40 hours...

I replaced a 10 year old Sony 32" XBR2 that had an amazing picture.

I'm using Time Warner cable with a Scientific Atlanta 8300HDC DVR, and assume at least some of the issues relate to that box.

First the highs:

Picture quality on HD is amazing. I've got an older 42PZ700 in my bedroom, and this is much better. The image is clearer and shaper. The colors are wonderful. The glare control is better as well. The downside of the bigger panel is that SD looks worse than my 42", particularly analog, which is much worse. I am also much more aware of the source quality, as the older movies in HD show their grain.

Studio reference mode looks great, but I'm just using the manual adjustment mode at 50% everything for now...

Now for the lows:

Sound is terrible. The two speakers are behind the set and do a decent job, but don't match the Sony and don't sound very good. They're tinny and weak, and inconsistent. If you turn them up loud enough to hear clearly, they're harsh. Right now I have the TV on its stand, but I'm planning on wall mounting it in the future.

Also, I've run into issues with HDMI and digital audio, with limitations on a second digital signal being run to the stereo....I'm getting a new AV receiver that will help, but this is a pain.

The TV also buzzes somewhat loudly at times...seems to be a function of time or the particular signal. Anyone else notice this?

Finally, the image can't seem to make up its mind whether to be 4:3 or 16:9 at times. I'm assuming this is box related. When I first turn the TV and Box on on a SD channel, I get a 4:3 image. I then switch to HD and it adjusts, and then when I switch back to the SD channel it goes to full screen mode. I'm theoretically outputting 4:3 from the box and letting the TV control it.

I purchased the TV through Panasonic's EPP, and am very happy with the value it represents.

I'm using Time Warner cable with a Scientific Atlanta 8300HDC DVR, and assume at least some of the issues relate to that box.



Now for the lows:

Sound is terrible. The two speakers are behind the set and do a decent job, but don't match the Sony and don't sound very good. They're tinny and weak, and inconsistent. If you turn them up loud enough to hear clearly, they're harsh. Right now I have the TV on its stand, but I'm planning on wall mounting it in the future.

The TV also buzzes somewhat loudly at times...seems to be a function of time or the particular signal. Anyone else notice this?

Finally, the image can't seem to make up its mind whether to be 4:3 or 16:9 at times. I'm assuming this is box related. When I first turn the TV and Box on on a SD channel, I get a 4:3 image. I then switch to HD and it adjusts, and then when I switch back to the SD channel it goes to full screen mode. I'm theoretically outputting 4:3 from the box and letting the TV control it.



Have you adjusted the audio to say;
bass: +4
Treble: +2
AI Sound: Off
BBE VIVA 3D: On
Audio Leveler: -1

This is where I have mine and I am very pleased with the quality of the sound. Mine is also on a stand. Have you listened to MTV-HD yet. It's pretty awesome sound coming out of a television.

On the 8300 you can set the box up to play 1080i on HD (or 720p) and 480p on SD. This will fill the screen each and every time you switch the channels from HD to SD. You have to hit Info and Guide on the actual box (at the same time and hold) with the box off iirc. You can then choose the settings you want and the screen size. Now while watching the television you will have to hit the settings button on the remote, scroll down to the "picture format" and select the resolution you want. you shouldn't be having anymore problems with this.

I've had my 50PZ850 for 10 days now and have slightly mixed reaction. Strong highs, some mid-minor lows. I haven't really explored the TV very much yet and have only run it for 30-40 hours...

I replaced a 10 year old Sony 32" XBR2 that had an amazing picture.

I'm using Time Warner cable with a Scientific Atlanta 8300HDC DVR, and assume at least some of the issues relate to that box.

First the highs:

Picture quality on HD is amazing. I've got an older 42PZ700 in my bedroom, and this is much better. The image is clearer and shaper. The colors are wonderful. The glare control is better as well. The downside of the bigger panel is that SD looks worse than my 42", particularly analog, which is much worse. I am also much more aware of the source quality, as the older movies in HD show their grain.

Studio reference mode looks great, but I'm just using the manual adjustment mode at 50% everything for now...

Now for the lows:

Sound is terrible. The two speakers are behind the set and do a decent job, but don't match the Sony and don't sound very good. They're tinny and weak, and inconsistent. If you turn them up loud enough to hear clearly, they're harsh. Right now I have the TV on its stand, but I'm planning on wall mounting it in the future.

Also, I've run into issues with HDMI and digital audio, with limitations on a second digital signal being run to the stereo....I'm getting a new AV receiver that will help, but this is a pain.

The TV also buzzes somewhat loudly at times...seems to be a function of time or the particular signal. Anyone else notice this?

Finally, the image can't seem to make up its mind whether to be 4:3 or 16:9 at times. I'm assuming this is box related. When I first turn the TV and Box on on a SD channel, I get a 4:3 image. I then switch to HD and it adjusts, and then when I switch back to the SD channel it goes to full screen mode. I'm theoretically outputting 4:3 from the box and letting the TV control it.

I purchased the TV through Panasonic's EPP, and am very happy with the value it represents.

I'm surprised at your comment on the sound. I had the opportunity near closing time at BB to do a sound check of the 850, 800, 85 and 80.
The 850 was amazing. Deep lows and no vibration or distortion at almost 90% of max volume. Even the BB rep, who was amused at my remote mute switching technique, commented on the superior sound of the 850. The sound quality is a strong selling point for me.

I've had my 50PZ850 for 10 days now and have slightly mixed reaction. Strong highs, some mid-minor lows. I haven't really explored the TV very much yet and have only run it for 30-40 hours...

I replaced a 10 year old Sony 32" XBR2 that had an amazing picture.

I'm using Time Warner cable with a Scientific Atlanta 8300HDC DVR, and assume at least some of the issues relate to that box.

First the highs:

Picture quality on HD is amazing. I've got an older 42PZ700 in my bedroom, and this is much better. The image is clearer and shaper. The colors are wonderful. The glare control is better as well. The downside of the bigger panel is that SD looks worse than my 42", particularly analog, which is much worse. I am also much more aware of the source quality, as the older movies in HD show their grain.

Studio reference mode looks great, but I'm just using the manual adjustment mode at 50% everything for now...

Now for the lows:

Sound is terrible. The two speakers are behind the set and do a decent job, but don't match the Sony and don't sound very good. They're tinny and weak, and inconsistent. If you turn them up loud enough to hear clearly, they're harsh. Right now I have the TV on its stand, but I'm planning on wall mounting it in the future.

Also, I've run into issues with HDMI and digital audio, with limitations on a second digital signal being run to the stereo....I'm getting a new AV receiver that will help, but this is a pain.

The TV also buzzes somewhat loudly at times...seems to be a function of time or the particular signal. Anyone else notice this?

Finally, the image can't seem to make up its mind whether to be 4:3 or 16:9 at times. I'm assuming this is box related. When I first turn the TV and Box on on a SD channel, I get a 4:3 image. I then switch to HD and it adjusts, and then when I switch back to the SD channel it goes to full screen mode. I'm theoretically outputting 4:3 from the box and letting the TV control it.

I purchased the TV through Panasonic's EPP, and am very happy with the value it represents.

I'm surprised with the sound comment as well. I have the 50PZ850 and the sound has been very impressive for a TV. I think it can almost get by without a dedicated sound system. Now, as Scubasteve suggested earlier, do turn off the surround sound, this feature can drown out dialog with other background sound.

ct6978, the sound on that set should be crystal clear and very well defined (occassionally some sources may be bad-our local ABC station often destroys the sound).

I did have an 85U that came with a bad sound amp.......could not understand a single word that was said; it did not matter if it was set to 12-40. Once or twice it would click/pop and be crystal clear; but 98% of the time it was just extreme high distortion. the picture on that set was perfectly acceptable; but it went back.......and replaced with the 800U.

The 800U sound and picture are great all the way around. The sound is crystal clear at any setting from 5-40..........most of the time it is around 25 or so.

After playing with all the sound settings, we just use the factory default of BBE HD (or what ever it is called). The surround sound is also very good on our set, and throws the sound all around the room...........but somehow the BBE HD is just "more clear" and even "more defined". In our particular case the sound is better that three regular Sony trinitrons and two Sony's XBR's trinitrons (all sold years ago).

So if it is not clear it could be a bad sound amp.

Also, you can go to monoprice and purchase (less than $5 ??) the combiner/splitter for toslink optic to solve the problem of connecting 2 or more devices to your amp. It should work in almost all cases (keep the toslink run(s) short as possible).

My set does not buzz, any picture, any source, full white or full black screen, and that is with my head behind the set.

I have not idea about the 16:9 and 4:3 issue. We use only OTA, and Sony HDD500 STB DVR and I guess we do not have that problem.

(whoops....I see 850U but would be the same for 800U as well etc)

Have you adjusted the audio to say;
bass: +4
Treble: +2
AI Sound: Off
BBE VIVA 3D: On
Audio Leveler: -1

This is where I have mine and I am very pleased with the quality of the sound. Mine is also on a stand. Have you listened to MTV-HD yet. It's pretty awesome sound coming out of a television.

On the 8300 you can set the box up to play 1080i on HD (or 720p) and 480p on SD. This will fill the screen each and every time you switch the channels from HD to SD. You have to hit Info and Guide on the actual box (at the same time and hold) with the box off iirc. You can then choose the settings you want and the screen size. Now while watching the television you will have to hit the settings button on the remote, scroll down to the "picture format" and select the resolution you want. you shouldn't be having anymore problems with this.

Thanks, I did try the settings, and I'm playing around with others. I may have been spoiled by my last TV which had excellent sound.

I did also try the Info and Guide but I think TW has disabled that function. I tried w/the box off and on with no luck. I can get to "settings" in the menu to control output size/resolution/aspect ratio, but there's a message that tells me the output resolution is disabled for HDMI output... I have the other settings at 4:3 and Normal...I've tried other settings but it doesn't fix the issue on initial turn on.

I'm surprised at your comment on the sound. I had the opportunity near closing time at BB to do a sound check of the 850, 800, 85 and 80.
The 850 was amazing. Deep lows and no vibration or distortion at almost 90% of max volume. Even the BB rep, who was amused at my remote mute switching technique, commented on the superior sound of the 850. The sound quality is a strong selling point for me.

I may need to compare at a store...I don't have much of a point of reference other than my last TV and the older 42" (turns out is a 42PX50U, not sure why I thought it was a 700....)

I'm surprised with the sound comment as well. I have the 50PZ850 and the sound has been very impressive for a TV. I think it can almost get by without a dedicated sound system. Now, as Scubasteve suggested earlier, do turn off the surround sound, this feature can drown out dialog with other background sound.

ct6978, the sound on that set should be crystal clear and very well defined (occassionally some sources may be bad-our local ABC station often destroys the sound).

I did have an 85U that came with a bad sound amp.......could not understand a single word that was said; it did not matter if it was set to 12-40. Once or twice it would click/pop and be crystal clear; but 98% of the time it was just extreme high distortion. the picture on that set was perfectly acceptable; but it went back.......and replaced with the 800U.

The sound is very clear, just a little harsh at volume, and somewhat low in output...I have to have it set around 40 for decent output. I actually had a technician out who replaced a board to resolve the buzzing issue, and we discussed the sound. He felt it was working, but did mention design limitations. I'm starting to think that its my expectations....My last TV's sound "filled" the room much better. I've ordered a new receiver with HDMI inputs/outputs, so I'll likely be listening through the stereo more often. Thank you for the feedback...

The 800U sound and picture are great all the way around. The sound is crystal clear at any setting from 5-40..........most of the time it is around 25 or so.

After playing with all the sound settings, we just use the factory default of BBE HD (or what ever it is called). The surround sound is also very good on our set, and throws the sound all around the room...........but somehow the BBE HD is just "more clear" and even "more defined". In our particular case the sound is better that three regular Sony trinitrons and two Sony's XBR's trinitrons (all sold years ago).

So if it is not clear it could be a bad sound amp.

Also, you can go to monoprice and purchase (less than $5 ??) the combiner/splitter for toslink optic to solve the problem of connecting 2 or more devices to your amp. It should work in almost all cases (keep the toslink run(s) short as possible).

My set does not buzz, any picture, any source, full white or full black screen, and that is with my head behind the set.

I have not idea about the 16:9 and 4:3 issue. We use only OTA, and Sony HDD500 STB DVR and I guess we do not have that problem.

(whoops....I see 850U but would be the same for 800U as well etc)

I'm running an HDMI cable from the box to the TV which carries the audio. I don't have a HDMI receiver, but will get one shortly. I'm running optical from the TV to the Amp and digital (tried both optical and coax) from the box to the Amp, but neither the box nor the TV will output anything more than 2-channel when the HDMI cable is connected. I could solve the problem by running component from the box to the TV, but didn't want to go that route...

I found this spelled out in the Panasonic manual and the 8300 setup menu, if the HDMI connection is used, you can't also output 5.1 via any other connection. This appears to be a copy protection issue....I need either an HDMI splitter or a new receiver....

Thanks again, all.

PS - Anyone know how I can check the elapsed viewing hours?

PPS - I just connected the network cable and played with Viera cast. I love it...

Also, when the gentleman from Panasonic (who was the single best service person I've dealt with, which makes up for their customer service phone system) had the back off the TV I saw the speakers. He called them "squakers" or something similar. They were low, on each side of the base mount, and enclosed in a plastic case. They looked like a car horn I've seen in the past, kind of like a spiral sea shell.

I should have taken a picture of the back....

I'd like to know the hours of use also. Anyone?

Do you need to have a modem/router connected directly or can you use VieraCast with a wireless adaptor of some kind?

Direct cable connection. I used a Linksys router and ran a cable....had to switch the DNS settings to automatic, but that was all.... It downloaded an update for Viera Cast and rest itself, then worked.

I really do love the picture on this thing. I'm watching shows in HD just to see the HD....who cares what's actually on.

someone with netflix please report on the viera cast netflix abilities.

pq? functionality? audio quality?

no netflix yet on viera cast

ct6978

toslink optical "out" of TV - Yes you are correct the TV will only output 5.1 sound from the TV tuner (everything else is 2 ch stereo).

Here are my plans, for my situation (not all the equipment is here or in the budget just yet - except the 800U is here).

1. 800U toslink link "out" 5.1 from OTA
2. Sony Box HD recorder toslink "out" - recorded from HD OTA 5.1 (depending on source like CSI, movies, etc). Been using this box for a few years.
3. BluRay Home Theater with only "one" toslink "in"

http://www2.panasonic.com/consumer-electronics/learn/audio/home-theater/whats-hot-blu-ray-home-theater.jsp

(that link may not work?)

Will be using the using the toslink combiner short run so that the 800U and Sony Box can feed the BluRay input.

Therefore, all three items:
1. 800U
2. Sony HD recorder
3. and BluRay Home Theater will all be able to produce 5.1 sound

no netflix yet on viera cast

thanks steve.

I'm a new member to the site, and was hoping for some feedback to help in making my decision between the 800 and 850. After some research, and based on budget, room size, etc., I ordered the 46" 800U last week direct from Panasonic (through an employee purchase program). However, I was informed today that the 46" is on backorder for a while, so the Panasonic rep offered me the 46" 850U for the same price (Originally, I was drawn to the 800U based on the good reviews, price, and THX mode it offered).

So now my decision has boiled down to either downgrading to the 42" 800U (which is in stock and will save some money), or taking the rep up on his offer to get the 46" 850U at no extra cost. Any thoughts? Is the THX mode worth getting the smaller size and staying with the 800 model? Or is the 850 model worth losing the THX mode (keeping in mind I could care less about being able to watch YouTube)?

46pz850u hands down. It's a more expensive television that you can get for the same price. Don't think twice about doing it, just do it. The 850u is too new to get as much feedback as the 800u has gotten, but give it time and you'll see. The $3500 tag on it doesn't help that much either.

After ordering from Panasonic and being placed on backorder I was told my 46pz850u wouldn't be shipping until July. To my suprise, I got a call yesterday and was told it would arrive at my condo tomorrow night. Can't wait to get it set up.

Hello people, just picked up the 50" 850U two weeks ago - great set, apart from some minor menu issues that I will reserve judgment on till I read the service manual.

Any word on the service manual?

I read some people whining about the 850U in previous posts. Interesting. My set is great. Although, I have noticed the 1080p/24 flicker with some material. Maybe those discs are not mastered in 1080p/24? I am using a PS3, so far it's good. Not sure why people spend so much for a screen when all they want is the vivid picture setting.. get a Vizio.

My picture is not solid depending on the feed. For example, game 5 of the NBA playoffs was so so (still much better than SD) in 720p, then game six was outstanding.

Depending on individual Blu-ray bit rates the picture ranges from great to awesome.

The 850U will for sure show defects in your source - it's a great set. The IPTV features are nice too, I might actually use them. They are a great indicator of things to come.

Every set has some minor issues, but the 850U is a nice one. The 800U looks nice, too, if you want to save a bit.

Anyone have the service manual?

thanks steve.
Do you honestly think netflix will be available on viera cast? You cannot even play movies from netflix on a mac. I seriously doubt you will be able to play netflix over viera cast.

Do you honestly think netflix will be available on viera cast? You cannot even play movies from netflix on a mac. I seriously doubt you will be able to play netflix over viera cast.

LG announced netflix streaming in a press release a while ago; Panasonic shouldn't be far away. If it happens it will be a great feature.

LG announced netflix streaming in a press release a while ago; Panasonic shouldn't be far away. If it happens it will be a great feature.

This sounds like a sweet feature.
Who knows some technical details?
So, is the idea that you can 'rent' netflix movies streaming on the 850?
Essentially an endless library of films at your fingertips for immediate viewing?
WOW! Pleased tell me it's true!!:D

I read some people whining about the 850U in previous posts. Interesting. My set is great.



That would be me.

Panasonic service person came by, swapped out the circuit board on one side, buzzing problem solved. He mentioned design limitations on the speakers and took notes on the picture sizing issues. We agreed one of them was related to the box, the other might be the TV, the box, or the combo.

I'll quit whining now....of course, I was aiming for an objective evaluation of my TV....:)

I have been reading this 850U thread hoping someone would mention any
issues they have had with glare on the screen.
The family room where I would place the set is quite bright with two walls
of windows. With our current 32" tube set, I often have to close the
blinds during the day for sports events. My wife complains that we are
living in a cave during those times.
I went to BestBuy yesterday to view the set in their showroom environment
and the 850s screen seemed to have quite a bit of reflection from the
overhead lights and the entrance windows.
The advertised AR filter didn't seem to do much to stop the glare.
Has glare been a major issue for any of you ?
Thanks !

If your room is that bright then you would want a traditional matte finish LCD.

The screen isn't as bad as a tube tele, but it will reflect and give a washed out appearance. All plasmas will do this with the pio's being the best at anti-reflection.

The 850 isn't as reflective as my old 36 inch XBR but you can still see reflections. Mine is in a room with north facing windows to one side which don't bother me from my normal viewing position. I do notice the reading light next to me reflecting, but my evening viewing is done with a bias light behind the set and the lamp beside me turned off.

Larry

I have been reading this 850U thread hoping someone would mention any
issues they have had with glare on the screen.
The family room where I would place the set is quite bright with two walls
of windows. With our current 32" tube set, I often have to close the
blinds during the day for sports events. My wife complains that we are
living in a cave during those times.
I went to BestBuy yesterday to view the set in their showroom environment
and the 850s screen seemed to have quite a bit of reflection from the
overhead lights and the entrance windows.
The advertised AR filter didn't seem to do much to stop the glare.
Has glare been a major issue for any of you ?
Thanks !

I really wanted to buy a plasma for my family room last year, but similar issues with bright sunlight during the day and bad reflection angles made me go down the LCD path. It's really the best choice for a bright room. My Sony KDL-40V3000 does so much better in that room vs. my Sony WEGA flat screen CRT. Day time viewing is great. I just turn the backlight down a bit at night, because LCDs are certainly bright.

For my downstairs home theater, I intend to get the plasma I always wanted. That's why I'm hanging around here checking out what people have to say. I'm just looking for someone to offer some compare/contrast of the 800U with THX Mode vs. the 850U with Studio Ref. mode and the Pro setting. I like the to be able to calibrate the set with the improved controls of the 850. Just trying to figure out if it's really necessary. Sometimes, simple is the best way to go.

Hi all. I'm trying to decide between the 58" 850 (when it finally gets here!!) and Pio's 6020. To tell the truth, I'm not getting a warm fuzzy feeling about the 850's so far. Even taking out Golf's problems as a possible bad unit. Keep the reviews coming and I will continue to read.

Ordered a unit today from the Panny EPP. They had a nice finance deal that made sense to jump now instead of around x-mas like I planned. Just wondering what wall mounts are being used by others in the forum with this unit.

Hello All,
Need some help here. Proud owner of TH-50PZ850. My probem is connecting to the internet. The cable modem is in my basement with a Linksys wireless router,
(WRT54GS) The TV is in the upper floor. Wireless signal is strong. What do I need to buy to connect my TV to the internet. Need all the help

Thanks all

A repeater for the router. Set it up next to the television and run an ethernet from it to the 850. The owners manual is a good place to look ;)

Hello All,
Need some help here. Proud owner of TH-50PZ850. My probem is connecting to the internet. The cable modem is in my basement with a Linksys wireless router,
(WRT54GS) The TV is in the upper floor. Wireless signal is strong. What do I need to buy to connect my TV to the internet. Need all the help

Thanks all

A WiFi bridge/repeater will do the trick. I use a device like that to connect my son's Xbox360 to my home network. Several companies make WiFi gaming network boxes. I think mine is from Linksys. This is a lot easier than running Ethernet cables around.

Just set the 850 up today. Can anyone provide a good link for a break-in thread providing howto's specifically for Panys? I've searched but haven't found anything about particulars. I'm upgrading from a 27" tube so this will be new for me.

I haven't seen it mentioned anywhere but does the 850 have a 1 Tuner Split-Screen like the 750 had? And if not what a dumb move Panny especially with the new Viera Cast connection.

I haven't noticed a split screen feature. As for Viera Cast; the input signal is displayed in the middle window of the Viera Cast desktop.

A WiFi bridge/repeater will do the trick. I use a device like that to connect my son's Xbox360 to my home network. Several companies make WiFi gaming network boxes. I think mine is from Linksys. This is a lot easier than running Ethernet cables around.

Hello All,
Need some help here. Proud owner of TH-50PZ850. My probem is connecting to the internet. The cable modem is in my basement with a Linksys wireless router,
(WRT54GS) The TV is in the upper floor. Wireless signal is strong. What do I need to buy to connect my TV to the internet. Need all the help

Thanks all

Two other solutions.

1. Another WRT54 router, loaded with 3rd party firmware (google dd-wrt) and configured as a wireless bridge. This gives you extra ports at your tv area.

2. Use a powerline product. These use your home electrical plugs. Plug one in at the router end and another at your tv site. You now have a wired connection to your tv without a long cable.

The 850U should have a wireless N LAN card built-in like any self respecting lap top, OR at least a poor man's USB port, to plug in your own LAN card.

Normally, I deduct 10 points for "dumbness"; but in this case its -100 points.

Two other solutions.

1. Another WRT54 router, loaded with 3rd party firmware (google dd-wrt) and configured as a wireless bridge. This gives you extra ports at your tv area.

2. Use a powerline product. These use your home electrical plugs. Plug one in at the router end and another at your tv site. You now have a wired connection to your tv without a long cable.

It works great. I have a v7 WRT54GS and it was easy to update the firmware if you are good that way. I could not believe how much wireless bridges cost! I picked up the WRT54GS for $40 I think. My gateway (unit hosting my DSL modem) is a v2 WRT54GS running "tomato" (another router OS) and it's cool. I will probably update it to DD-WRT as well when I'm bored. Tomato has great visuals, but I think DD-WRT's feature set is a little better, IMO. I have the 850, PS3, HTPC (for tinkering at this point) and Apple Airtunes all connected via the v7 WRT54GS's 4 port switch. The viera cast runs great. If Panasonic can hammer out a deal with Netfix Viera Cast will be a real killer feature.

That would be me.

Panasonic service person came by, swapped out the circuit board on one side, buzzing problem solved. He mentioned design limitations on the speakers and took notes on the picture sizing issues. We agreed one of them was related to the box, the other might be the TV, the box, or the combo.

I'll quit whining now....of course, I was aiming for an objective evaluation of my TV....:)

Sounds like you had a real problem. Glad it worked out for you. How do you feel about the sound? The quality exceeded my expectations, which were pretty low to start with. With that said it's pretty good. I use my surround system most of the time. I prefer the 3D function turned off like others have pointed out. LCDs and plasma seem like a challenging form factor for speaker design. It sounds like Panasonic is using a couple horn speakers. Interesting. I suspect the audio amp is a class D following current trends to conserve power. Our beasts can pull up to 700W, worse case! Not much of a green machine.

The 850U should have a wireless N LAN card built-in like any self respecting lap top, OR at least a poor man's USB port, to plug in your own LAN card.

Normally, I deduct 10 points for "dumbness"; but in this case its -100 points.

USB would be nice. I suspect the microcontroller they settled on did not support it or they wanted to save the trouble. The SD card interface is pretty easy to do. USB requires a lot of acceptance testing, which is why it's a pretty good system.

I really want to see the service manual.

How do we enter the 850's service menu?

I really want to see the service manual.

Look here: http://service.us.panasonic.com/oper...del=TH50PZ850U

Thanks Scuba, Lofty and CW,
I figured that would be the case in such a bright room. Sure like the picture on a Plasma better than a LCD though.

Look here: http://service.us.panasonic.com/oper...del=TH50PZ850U

Thanks for the link. I have the user manual, but I'm interested in the service manual, which typically go into design detail.

It works great. I have a v7 WRT54GS and it was easy to update the firmware if you are good that way. I could not believe how much wireless bridges cost! I picked up the WRT54GS for $40 I think. My gateway (unit hosting my DSL modem) is a v2 WRT54GS running "tomato" (another router OS) and it's cool. I will probably update it to DD-WRT as well when I'm bored. Tomato has great visuals, but I think DD-WRT's feature set is a little better, IMO. I have the 850, PS3, HTPC (for tinkering at this point) and Apple Airtunes all connected via the v7 WRT54GS's 4 port switch. The viera cast runs great. If Panasonic can hammer out a deal with Netfix Viera Cast will be a real killer feature.

A friend of mine uses this Panasonic made power line communication for his network cameras. They're great (so he says)! All you need is one connected to your TV, plugged into a wall outlet. The other plugs to your router or modem and a wall outlet....that's it! Nothing to download or setup. Works great, and the speeds are faster than your modem or router so no issue there. You can find them on line like Big River:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000FZVTSW******nosim/6688861-20

I thought I found a price for a 2 pack, which was a better deal but I can't find it now. I was thinking about this when considering the 850 before buying the 800 (no regrets).

Thanks for the link. I have the user manual, but I'm interested in the service manual, which typically go into design detail.

The service manual is seldom available online. I hear tell that you can buy one from the panny parts dept. Anyone who services these TVs would have access if they are able (or willing) to share some tips on access.

You may just have to wait!

A friend of mine uses this Panasonic made power line communication for his network cameras. They're great (so he says)! All you need is one connected to your TV, plugged into a wall outlet. The other plugs to your router or modem and a wall outlet....that's it! Nothing to download or setup. Works great, and the speeds are faster than your modem or router so no issue there. You can find them on line like Big River:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000FZVTSW******nosim/6688861-20

I thought I found a price for a 2 pack, which was a better deal but I can't find it now. I was thinking about this when considering the 850 before buying the 800 (no regrets).

Powerline has come a long ways and definitely worth a look. I would at least check out newegg.com for some better reviews and compare pricing with amazon.

Perfectly calibarted 850 versus perfectly calibrated 800--would one have a better picture than the other?

The word on the street is the 850. 20% wider color gamut and studio ref. mode :)

The word on the street is the 850. 20% wider color gamut and studio ref. mode :)

ok why not just talk out of the box then, alot have talked about how the 800u had pretty accurate colors in thx mode right away anyway, so would one likely be able to discenr any real difference between studio ref mode in stock and 800u at stock.

i've been able to glance at them both noew in the store and they both have that similar dull/brown tint, so i'm venturing to guess the modes may be a bit similar?

I will be receiving my 50" 850U today. I'll have it on a stand and would like to anchor it to the wall to keep it from falling over in an earthquake, etc. I had previously been considering buying a TH58PE75U and noticed in the users manual some instructions for doing this. Nothing similar in the downloaded 850U users manual. I expect that I could put some screws into the same place you'd attach a wall mount but I'm not sure what size screws those are. If it's the same as the 58PE75U, then they are M8x35mm screws.

Any suggestions? Confirmation of the screw size? Thanks.

A friend of mine uses this Panasonic made power line communication for his network cameras. They're great (so he says)! All you need is one connected to your TV, plugged into a wall outlet. The other plugs to your router or modem and a wall outlet....that's it! Nothing to download or setup. Works great, and the speeds are faster than your modem or router so no issue there. You can find them on line like Big River:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000FZVTSW******nosim/6688861-20

I thought I found a price for a 2 pack, which was a better deal but I can't find it now. I was thinking about this when considering the 850 before buying the 800 (no regrets).

Just a word of caution on Powerline products....

The manufacturer will tell you NOT to use a power strip with powerline adapters. The power strip will restrict current which in turn lowers throughput. You'll be told to plug it right into the wall. I did that with my powerline adapters and everything was great until we took a power hit at home one day in Nov. Fried the adapter in my basement home theater. That's when I switched to a WiFi bridge. Both solutions cost about the same. Use a power strip with surge protection and accept the lower throughput.

Hi,

I owned a Samsung a750 for a few days before returning it due to the "halo effect" around the bezel, and replaced it with the Panasonic 850.

I'm loving the picture in HD for the most part, but I do see a lot of redness in the skin tones, etc.. On SD, the colors can either be too red or a little green. I'm not having any luck with the settings either.

Is this an issue with this tv? I understand I would need it callibrated, but wondering if other experience the same thing.

I watch a soap on nbc that is not HD, but comes in over the HD channel. It looks horrible. It's hard to explain.. sometimes i see a trail of someones head when they walk, or sometimes their face looks blotchy (not pixilated).

Also on the sound, when watching a dvd, I need to turn the volume way up to 35, then whenever there's shooting or loud action, I have to turn it down like 15-20. On the other tv, it stayed around the same. I don't have a surround sound system, and keep I keep the surround on the tv off.

Any suggestions would be great. I'm not too technical anymore, so please be basic :-)

Thanks.
Denise

What are your picture settings?

I think the skin tones are excellent on this television. I'm at ~30hrs. After break-in the PQ will keep getting better

What are your picture settings?

I think the skin tones are excellent on this television. I'm at ~30hrs. After break-in the PQ will keep getting better

I honestly don't know. I think right now I'm just at the out of the box settings since I couldn't get anything I like. Standard and Studio Ref is just way too dark. On custom, but no changes.

Also, how the heck do you break these in? I didn't receive any dvd that I hear people talk about.

Thanks.
Denise

The DVD is a download that you then need to burn. You don't have to do it, just make sure you have no black bars or logos for more than ~15min or so. 100-150 hours is the normal break-in time. You want to keep the picture and brightness around half. This is to let the phosphors age correctly.

My settings, which i am in love with and will probably keep after break in:

Settings:

Studio ref mode
Picture: 46
Brightness: 45
Color: 41
Tint: -2
Sharpness: 50
Color Temp: Warm
Color mgmt: off
Digital Cinema Color: On
C.A.T.S. : Off
Video and Mosquito NR: off
Black Level: Light
HD size: 2 (if available)

The DVD is a download that you then need to burn. You don't have to do it, just make sure you have no black bars or logos for more than ~15min or so. 100-150 hours is the normal break-in time. You want to keep the picture and brightness around half. This is to let the phosphors age correctly.

My settings, which i am in love with and will probably keep after break in:

Settings:

Studio ref mode
Picture: 46
Brightness: 45
Color: 41
Tint: -2
Sharpness: 50
Color Temp: Warm
Color mgmt: off
Digital Cinema Color: On
C.A.T.S. : Off
Video and Mosquito NR: off
Black Level: Light
HD size: 2 (if available)

I will give this a try, thanks.

D

No luck. This setting was way to dark. Thx. D

No luck. This setting was way to dark. Thx. D

You'll want to keep your setting under 50 for the first 100 hours use too.

Also, the picture will improve as it you get closer to passing the 100 hour breaks-in on the phosphers too.

scubasteve44,

The DVD is a download that you then need to burn.


Where can I download this DVD? We're expecting our new 850 anytime now.
Thanks,
Celia

No luck. This setting was way to dark. Thx. D


You might want to try an LCD. What is your viewing environment like? Very bright? LCD's do better in the light and are brighter. This years pannys are one of thr brightest plasmas, so you probably aren't going to be happy if you're looking for brightness. of course the drawback with LCD is....everything. Bringing the picture up to the 80 range while keeping everything else the same looks pretty darn good too, but you don't want to do this during break in.


DVD download:
http://www.eaprogramming.com/

ya'll need to search

Received my 50pz850 today that I ordered through EPP. Took about 3 weeks to get here - but that gave me time to plan the installation.

I was just able to give in a cursory glance before I had to leave town. The set is absolutely gorgeous - no question. I was worried about the trim - but it didn't bother me when I saw the set in person.

Unfortunately - it's going to sit in its box for a while because I had to reschedule the electrician:( So a real review is delayed.

But - the set is beautiful and 50" is huge compared to what I'm used to - can't wait to get this thing up and view it.

If anyone wants to weigh in, I'm trying to figure out a sound sytem - here's what I'm considereing:

1. Yamaha YSP 4000. Upside - wife approval. One devise (+ sub) and I'm done. My one big concern - the TV is already having to be mounted higher than ideal - the YSP would have to go above the TV. That's probably out of ideal range (but the drivers are adjustable - would this help?)

2. Traditional speaker system. AV receiver either the Onkyo 606 or the Marantz SR5002. Start with a 3.1 for now (have to wait get get approval from the wife on the surrounds -but room layout makes surround placement tricky. Also, I kind of think 3.1 will be 90% of what I want out of a sound system. One other problem - the R speaker would be tough to wire in wall to just because of the exterior wall. . .I'm considering 5 series Aperion as the way to go.

3. In ceiling directional speakers (coupled with Marantz or Onkyo). I literally know nothing about this. My wife would probably prefer this to traditional speakers. . .My big hesitation is making my sound system a fixture into the house that I can't take with me in the event we sell in five years or so. Probably not going to get much boost if any in pricing the house. . .

Anyone finding any value in the Pro Settings yet? I'm wondering if the extra tweakability is really worth the extra cost.

Anyone finding any value in the Pro Settings yet? I'm wondering if the extra tweakability is really worth the extra cost.

I'm still breaking in my set but my initial answer is definitely yes: it appears to me that the Studio Ref mode gamma is too low and the Warm color temp is off.

Assuming I keep the set, I will post my pre-ISF settings after breakin is complete.

I have a reasonably accurate ISF'd 34XBR960 CRT to compare it to, so the settings I post will be as close to that reference set as I can get by eyeball alone.

You might want to try an LCD. What is your viewing environment like? Very bright? LCD's do better in the light and are brighter. This years pannys are one of thr brightest plasmas, so you probably aren't going to be happy if you're looking for brightness. of course the drawback with LCD is....everything. Bringing the picture up to the 80 range while keeping everything else the same looks pretty darn good too, but you don't want to do this during break in.


DVD download:
http://www.eaprogramming.com/

ya'll need to search

I don't think he needs an LCD...just increase the contrast after the burn in period (if that's really necessary...I'm skeptical). 46 is low.

DVD download:
http://www.eaprogramming.com/

ya'll need to search

Thank you.

First review I've seen. What ever happened to CNET's review?

http://products.howstuffworks.com/panasonic-th-50pz850u-50-inch-plasma-hdtv-review.htm

Sounds like you had a real problem. Glad it worked out for you. How do you feel about the sound? The quality exceeded my expectations, which were pretty low to start with. With that said it's pretty good. I use my surround system most of the time. I prefer the 3D function turned off like others have pointed out. LCDs and plasma seem like a challenging form factor for speaker design. It sounds like Panasonic is using a couple horn speakers. Interesting. I suspect the audio amp is a class D following current trends to conserve power. Our beasts can pull up to 700W, worse case! Not much of a green machine.

The sound is ok, not great. I ended up buying a new receiver and am running the sound through it often as you do. I've turned off the surround as per suggestions I received here, and I do think its improved the quality of the sound quite a bit, but the volume is lower since I'm running HDMI from the box to the receiver, I can only output analog stereo to the TV. The HDMI/HDCP limitations are very annoying... I agree the form factor is the culprit, as well as the 1 sheet of glass design, as they can't do forward firing speakers.. My older model has the speakers accross the bottom, and they sound a little better. My old CRT (32 XBR2) had great speakers, so I got spoiled.

The electrical draw is definately bigger, my lights (on the same circuit) occasionally flicker....I'm looking at running another line to the family room, I have the TV, receiver, sub, dvr, computer w/CRT, laptop, and 300W halogen all drawing on a 15amp circuit...I'm really at the limit..

The picture is truly amazing.....

My settings, which i am in love with and will probably keep after break in:

Settings:

Studio ref mode
Picture: 46
Brightness: 45
Color: 41
Tint: -2
Sharpness: 50
Color Temp: Warm
Color mgmt: off
Digital Cinema Color: On
C.A.T.S. : Off
Video and Mosquito NR: off
Black Level: Light
HD size: 2 (if available)

Scubasteve44, were these the settings your set came with? My studio ref had picture set at 100 which I thought odd....are the default settings in this mode what the factory recommends?

Thanks.

The sound is ok, not great. I ended up buying a new receiver and am running the sound through it often as you do. I've turned off the surround as per suggestions I received here, and I do think its improved the quality of the sound quite a bit, but the volume is lower since I'm running HDMI from the box to the receiver, I can only output analog stereo to the TV. The HDMI/HDCP limitations are very annoying... I agree the form factor is the culprit, as well as the 1 sheet of glass design, as they can't do forward firing speakers.. My older model has the speakers accross the bottom, and they sound a little better. My old CRT (32 XBR2) had great speakers, so I got spoiled.

The electrical draw is definately bigger, my lights (on the same circuit) occasionally flicker....I'm looking at running another line to the family room, I have the TV, receiver, sub, dvr, computer w/CRT, laptop, and 300W halogen all drawing on a 15amp circuit...I'm really at the limit..

The picture is truly amazing.....

The picture is great. I sat down with DVD essentials last night and calibrated it as best as I could. Red is a bit high like others have mentioned. Also, I'm not sure about the linearity coming out of black. After I adjusted the color I could not get the pluge below black bar to show up anymore, even with the panel brightness above low. Have you done any calibrations?

Hi,

I owned a Samsung a750 for a few days before returning it due to the "halo effect" around the bezel, and replaced it with the Panasonic 850.

I'm loving the picture in HD for the most part, but I do see a lot of redness in the skin tones, etc.. On SD, the colors can either be too red or a little green. I'm not having any luck with the settings either.

Is this an issue with this tv? I understand I would need it callibrated, but wondering if other experience the same thing.

I watch a soap on nbc that is not HD, but comes in over the HD channel. It looks horrible. It's hard to explain.. sometimes i see a trail of someones head when they walk, or sometimes their face looks blotchy (not pixilated).

Also on the sound, when watching a dvd, I need to turn the volume way up to 35, then whenever there's shooting or loud action, I have to turn it down like 15-20. On the other tv, it stayed around the same. I don't have a surround sound system, and keep I keep the surround on the tv off.

Any suggestions would be great. I'm not too technical anymore, so please be basic :-)

Thanks.
Denise

I've noticed some shows (particulary on KTLA Channel 5 - SD) that are too red, but I think the source is the issue. All decent HD shows (particularly Discovery) look great. Skin tones are good. I've set the TV to Custom, 50s for all levels except Tint, and warm color level. You shouldn't need it calibrated to get good/decent colors... The face trail does sound odd. I do notice blotchyness and pixelization (sp?) in cases, but again I think that's from the broadcast and/or cable signal compression. I've been comparing different configurations using SD and HD shows on the DVR, watching the same section of shows over and over. I've switched cables, and connected via the receiver w/upconversion on and off, and directly to the TV. Although there is a slight difference with the upconverter, the issues I've noticed (blotchyness and pixels) are consistent, so they appear to be either from the DVR, or the source signal.

The volume issue might be similar to what I've seen. How do you have the TV, cable box(if any) and DVD player hooked up? You may want to turn off the surround sound setting and leave AI level on....

So, adjusting sharpness doesn't do anything to my picture with a blu-ray test disk feed. Anybody else notice this? Also, it seems the picture setting limits the max amount of white? What do you boys and girls think?

I've noticed some shows (particulary on KTLA Channel 5 - SD) that are too red, but I think the source is the issue. All decent HD shows (particularly Discovery) look great. Skin tones are good. I've set the TV to Custom, 50s for all levels except Tint, and warm color level. You shouldn't need it calibrated to get good/decent colors... The face trail does sound odd. I do notice blotchyness and pixelization (sp?) in cases, but again I think that's from the broadcast and/or cable signal compression. I've been comparing different configurations using SD and HD shows on the DVR, watching the same section of shows over and over. I've switched cables, and connected via the receiver w/upconversion on and off, and directly to the TV. Although there is a slight difference with the upconverter, the issues I've noticed (blotchyness and pixels) are consistent, so they appear to be either from the DVR, or the source signal.

The volume issue might be similar to what I've seen. How do you have the TV, cable box(if any) and DVD player hooked up? You may want to turn off the surround sound setting and leave AI level on....

Thanks for your feedback. Yes, the HD picture looks great, just the SD stuff. I'm still confused as to why the one show I watch looks blotchy in the faces. If you are bored one day, watch "Days of Our Lives" hehe. Pay attention to the faces. Sometimes you see a trail, other times the blotches.

My dvr and dvd player connect directly to the tv via HDMI cables. No sound system yet. I believe my sound is set up the way you suggested.

Thanks!

Hello,

I'm a proud owner of a new Panny 50" 850u, but have nothing else for the home theater yet.

I'd like to take advantage of the Viera Link compatibility in my future purchases. It seems like a great concept now that HDMI is becoming (or become?) the standard in the home theater market for data flow.

Is there a list floating around of Viera Link compatible devices?

I've read that some products other than the Panny brand products are compatible, but I can't seem to find much concrete information.

Thanks!

Thanks for your feedback. Yes, the HD picture looks great, just the SD stuff. I'm still confused as to why the one show I watch looks blotchy in the faces. If you are bored one day, watch "Days of Our Lives" hehe. Pay attention to the faces. Sometimes you see a trail, other times the blotches.

My dvr and dvd player connect directly to the tv via HDMI cables. No sound system yet. I believe my sound is set up the way you suggested.

Thanks!

I think I know the problem, the 850 is allergic to soaps! Sounds like its the quality of the broadcast....

As far as the sound, you might want to try the following settings, make sure to check this when you're watching a DVD as the TV may allow for different settings for different sources.

AI Sound : On - This is supposed to level the sound between different channels, you could try this off, I'm still experimenting.
BBE VIVA 3D - Off
BBE - Off
Surround - Off

This turns off the surround, which I found to improve the sound.

You can try to increase the audio leveler setter, as it appears to increase the voice part of the sound, which seems to help make it easier to understand the dialog.

I'm also a new 850u owner. I am very pleased with the image quality, particularly the black detail and studio ref mode color. Blu ray looks unbelievable.

One thing though: I am using Comcast cable (including HD) thru a Scientific Atlanta box and most (perhaps all?) channels have an intermittent flicker or "blink" that occurs once every 1-2 minutes. I also notice it when using the Comcast channel explorer when i page through the channel lists. I don't see it with other sources. Further, my old Samsung LCD in another room does not have this behavior. Any ideas?

thanks,
Fatty

Has anyone tried blu-rays at 24p yet? Do these panels have the same flicker issue as the 800 series when viewing 24p material?

Kent

yes. It is the same thing

I think I know the problem, the 850 is allergic to soaps! Sounds like its the quality of the broadcast....

As far as the sound, you might want to try the following settings, make sure to check this when you're watching a DVD as the TV may allow for different settings for different sources.

AI Sound : On - This is supposed to level the sound between different channels, you could try this off, I'm still experimenting.
BBE VIVA 3D - Off
BBE - Off
Surround - Off

This turns off the surround, which I found to improve the sound.

You can try to increase the audio leveler setter, as it appears to increase the voice part of the sound, which seems to help make it easier to understand the dialog.


LOL. The 850 and my husband!

I have the sound set up exactly that way.. with the audio leveler on +1. It's still loud on action parts where I have to turn it down. I haven't tested any other action movies yet, so maybe it was just the one movie.

Denise

I just got this TV yesterday and got it set up last night. This is my first Plasma. I had a Sharp Lcd before this. This is probably a silly question but is the screen normally a greyish color when it is turned off? The LCD I had was pretty black when off and all the CRT's I have had were completly black. Just wondering.

I know that everyone is on pins and needles for my assesment of this TV:rolleyes:

In the meantime, there's this guy who claims to know something about HDTVs and has a review pitting it against last years Pioneer 6010.

http://hdguru.com/

Basically - he concludes that this TV has a few minor flaws, but goes toe-to-toe with the best of the best (for half the price in my case:)).

Anyway - looks like a winner - though not the holy grail yet. It'll be interesting to see what he has to say about the 9G Pioneers.

It seems the HD size 1 and 2 settings are not independent of the selected input. It would be nice to have the TV input set to 4% overscan and movie inputs set to 1:1 pixel mode. Anybody else agree?

It seems the HD size 1 and 2 settings are not independent of the selected input. It would be nice to have the TV input set to 4% overscan and movie inputs set to 1:1 pixel mode. Anybody else agree?

I just discovered this yesterday and agree. It would be an improvement if the HD size was configurable per input: e.g., size 2 for the blu-ray and dvd inputs and size 1 for fios box. (My fios feed consistently shows a green vertical line at the right when overscan is off.)

I know that everyone is on pins and needles for my assesment of this TV:rolleyes:

In the meantime, there's this guy who claims to know something about HDTVs and has a review pitting it against last years Pioneer 6010.

http://hdguru.com/

Basically - he concludes that this TV has a few minor flaws, but goes toe-to-toe with the best of the best (for half the price in my case:)).

Anyway - looks like a winner - though not the holy grail yet. It'll be interesting to see what he has to say about the 9G Pioneers.

I read his review and was surprised that Panasonic would implement 24p processing in such a poor manner. The TV seems like it is still a 60Hz panel (last year's technology) with a forced 48Hz mode. I hope it is not marketing at its worst. Pioneer has had 72Hz technology for a couple of years now and this should reach second tier vendors by this time. I wouldn't be surprised if the 2009 models use 72Hz as the catch. I also doubt that firmware can fix the problem since it appears the screen cannot refresh higher that 60Hz. Does anyone know how much differences seperate these with the UK panels, which presumably output 96Hz ?

I just got this TV yesterday and got it set up last night. This is my first Plasma. I had a Sharp Lcd before this. This is probably a silly question but is the screen normally a greyish color when it is turned off? The LCD I had was pretty black when off and all the CRT's I have had were completly black. Just wondering.

Plasma screen material looks grayish when light is shining directly on it. Same with CRT, actually.

I read his review and was surprised that Panasonic would implement 24p processing in such a poor manner. The TV seems like it is still a 60Hz panel (last year's technology) with a forced 48Hz mode. I hope it is not marketing at its worst. Pioneer has had 72Hz technology for a couple of years now and this should reach second tier vendors by this time. I wouldn't be surprised if the 2009 models use 72Hz as the catch. I also doubt that firmware can fix the problem since it appears the screen cannot refresh higher that 60Hz. Does anyone know how much differences seperate these with the UK panels, which presumably output 96Hz ?

Do UK panels even need a 24/48/72/96 mode? Their movies are sped up to 25hz anyway, so there's no judder in their standard 50hz mode. They can simply display each frame twice.

I read his review and was surprised that Panasonic would implement 24p processing in such a poor manner. The TV seems like it is still a 60Hz panel (last year's technology) with a forced 48Hz mode. I hope it is not marketing at its worst. Pioneer has had 72Hz technology for a couple of years now and this should reach second tier vendors by this time. I wouldn't be surprised if the 2009 models use 72Hz as the catch. I also doubt that firmware can fix the problem since it appears the screen cannot refresh higher that 60Hz. Does anyone know how much differences seperate these with the UK panels, which presumably output 96Hz ?

Once I saw a terrible amount of flicker, but since that time I don't see a thing. Maybe it was a 1080i bluray disk I was playing. The HDguru review does specify he was using a 1080i test disk for the previous test, although it's unclear what disk was used for the 24p tests. I use video essentials disk to play 24p and it looks good to me. Maybe I am just not seeing it. I'll take some video next time I'm bored (not sure if that will capture it though).

I've had a couple people over that didn't notice the flicker, when it was very obvious to me. Dark scenes/movies don't show the flicker, only bright areas or scenes.

I've had a couple people over that didn't notice the flicker, when it was very obvious to me. Dark scenes/movies don't show the flicker, only bright areas or scenes.

...now I see it. ****. I wouldn't go so far as to say it's unwatchable, but I see it now. There was one time I was messing with settings and the flicker was very, very bad. I'm still trying to recreate that situation.

I read his review and was surprised that Panasonic would implement 24p processing in such a poor manner. The TV seems like it is still a 60Hz panel (last year's technology) with a forced 48Hz mode. I hope it is not marketing at its worst. Pioneer has had 72Hz technology for a couple of years now and this should reach second tier vendors by this time. I wouldn't be surprised if the 2009 models use 72Hz as the catch. I also doubt that firmware can fix the problem since it appears the screen cannot refresh higher that 60Hz. Does anyone know how much differences seperate these with the UK panels, which presumably output 96Hz ?

At SXGA resolution the 850U can refresh from 59-86Hz. Perhaps the panel can refresh at a higher frequency. Although, I think there is a difference between accepting and displaying at those frequencies. I am betting the panel can refresh at a higher rate than 60Hz.

Cnet reviews the 850 today!

Correct me please if I am wrong, but isn't one of the differences between the 800 and 850 is the ability to adjust the gamma on the later. I spent 30 days with a Samsung LN52A750 which I must say had terrific PQ. I returned it because it had more motion blur then I could take. But, it had many many options for tweaking. One of which was the gamma adjustment. I found that the differences in the quality of programming almost required that I use the gamma adjustment to optimize the PQ given the program material and the home environment (day\night viewing). It would seem to me that I would miss this capability if I purchased the 800u. Opinions? Thanks! :)

Note: I'm posting this in the 800 thread too to see what those owners think.

Cnet review of the 850

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-viera-th-50pz850u/4505-6482_7-32896587.html

Anyone have any idea when the 58 inch model will be out? I currently have the TH58PZ750U and due to all sorts of problems, Panny is giving me my money back. But they have no 58 inch or larger and I really don't think I want to jump ship to LCD (although I do love my Sony Plasma and have never had an issue). I just can't be without a TV for months in my living room.

Chris at Cleveland Plasma said today that the 58" and 65" are supposed to be out in September:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14208804#post14208804

Previously I've read other predictions that said "September-October" and one post that said August (which I don't believe)....

Signed,
Waiting for my 58" 800U or 850U

Cnet review of the 850

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-viera-th-50pz850u/4505-6482_7-32896587.html

Not a sparkling review but I still want the 850U. Maybe the reviewer needed to test the tv after the break in period.

Someone said that Cnet wasn't reviewing a calibrated set, and perhaps the 850U can benefit from calibration more than the 800U-in-THX-mode. I would like to think that a calibrated 850U should be at least as good as an 800U.... Which is certainly Panasonic's intention as well!

What I got out of the review (half asleep) is that the 850 looks better than the 800. The only thing is that the 800 has the more accurate colors according to HD tv specs. The 850 has greener or blue-er colors. I still love the 850 and wouldn't trade it for an 800 any day. If I paid full retail for the 850 I might be more disappointed with that review. I like my eyes and I like what my eyes see when the are in front of the 850. That is really all that matters. My settings are not near cnets settings - brightness at 89 wtf?

...now I see it. ****. I wouldn't go so far as to say it's unwatchable, but I see it now. There was one time I was messing with settings and the flicker was very, very bad. I'm still trying to recreate that situation.

The flicker is dependant on brightness an contrast. If you turn the brightness and contrast all the way down you don't see it. I watched some test material last night and I couldn't tell the difference between 24p and 60p, anyway. Maybe my material didn't have any fast panning.

At SXGA resolution the 850U can refresh from 59-86Hz. Perhaps the panel can refresh at a higher frequency. Although, I think there is a difference between accepting and displaying at those frequencies. I am betting the panel can refresh at a higher rate than 60Hz.

I found more detailed specs - looks like at SXGA the panel won't go higher than 60Hz in PC mode. Not sure if that is a PC input integrated circuit limitation or panel/driver limitation.

Someone said that Cnet wasn't reviewing a calibrated set, and perhaps the 850U can benefit from calibration more than the 800U-in-THX-mode. I would like to think that a calibrated 850U should be at least as good as an 800U.... Which is certainly Panasonic's intention as well!

Pretty sure the 850 doesn't have any way to improve the color decoder, so it couldn't be calibrated to equal the 800u (at least in that respect).

Pretty sure the 850 doesn't have any way to improve the color decoder, so it couldn't be calibrated to equal the 800u (at least in that respect).

Interesting. If true, it must mean that the 800U THX setting does indeed have some kind of special sauce and that Panasonic did indeed put different color decoders into these two sets. I have a hard time believing that, but I guess it's possible.

Interesting. If true, it must mean that the 800U THX setting does indeed have some kind of special sauce and that Panasonic did indeed put different color decoders into these two sets. I have a hard time believing that, but I guess it's possible.

Has anyone actually calibrated an 850 to verify this? It just doesn't seem to add up.

I'm about 50 hours into the break-in process (give or take) and I've got a few comments and questions for the other owners.

While I love the colors in the studio reference mode, there does seem to be a fair amount of black crush going on. Our local NBC station has HD cameras in the studio, but not in the field. When they switch to field footage, they have their logo on the sides as filler. I've noticed that when I go to Custom mode, there's extra lines in their logo that appear, which are barely visible in Studio Ref mode when staring from the couch and not noticeable under casual viewing. Perhaps with an ISF calibration the studio ref mode can be made more accurate.

I'm using an HTPC running Vista Media Center for most of my viewing, I just hate watching commericals. I'm hoping that Cyberlink will come out with a plug-in for Media Center so I don't have to minimize Media Center and fire up PowerDVD to watch BluRay discs. OTA HD looks great and I can at least sense a difference between a 720p signal (FOX) and and good 1080i signal (CBS). There's still detail the 720p, but it's just missing that pop.

I was trying out the 48Hz mode using my HTPC. I set the graphics card (ATI HD3200 integrated into the AMD 780G chipset) to 24Hz and the TV to 48Hz. OUCH OUCH MY FREAKING EYES! I don't know if this was a truely valid test for the 24p case, but I was getting a headache after 2-3 minutes of staring at the Windows background. It truely seems to mimic the old theater experiece (most theaters I go to have DLP now, thankfully). I watched a little scenery BluRay of Washington State for about 5 minutes before I finally switched back to 60Hz. Really, even at 60Hz, I still feel that I can notice the flicker. Not nearly as bad as the 48Hz, but I can sense that it's there. Of course I'm the 1% of the audience that can see DLP rainbows.

I also plugged in my XBOX 360 HDDVD drive to the HTPC and ran Corpse Bride last night. I must say that the picture was amazing. There did seem to be a little dithering on dark gradients, during the first dead world musical, and I don't know if I need to blame the TV or the encoding. The BluRay playback experience has been impoved by using the trial version of PowerDVD 8 (I own 7.3 which had much more noise for BlueRay media). The bummer is that 7.3 will be the last version with HDDVD support.

One other thing about BlueRay playback, even in PowerDVD 8. I've been noticing that I've been getting a fair amount of saturated whites that I didn't see on my father's plasma using a PS3 as the player. Anyone else using an HTPC experience this? Any tweaks that I can perform? Normal OTA HD and HDDVD playback from the same PC don't show this behavior.

One last thing. When the HTPC is booting there are a few spots where the resolution is changing and all I see on the TV is the blue box in the left corner saying "HDMI 1 PVR". Now, I noticed that there was a little noise in the blue box so I swapped over to my DVD input (the player was off) and the noise was less. Switching back to the HTPC and the noise came back. Figuring that this is a digital link and that as long as the receiver can see a 1 or 0 the picture should be perfect, why am I seeing noise? Ground noise from the PC getting into the input? Bad clocking of the digital stream to the TV, i.e. too much jitter?

While I love the colors in the studio reference mode, there does seem to be a fair amount of black crush going on. Our local NBC station has HD cameras in the studio, but not in the field. When they switch to field footage, they have their logo on the sides as filler. I've noticed that when I go to Custom mode, there's extra lines in their logo that appear, which are barely visible in Studio Ref mode when staring from the couch and not noticeable under casual viewing. Perhaps with an ISF calibration the studio ref mode can be made more accurate.


If they are visible at all then it isn't "crushing" the detail. It may be that those lines are not meant to be easily seen. Best thing to do it check out test patterns.


I'm using an HTPC running Vista Media Center for most of my viewing, I just hate watching commericals. I'm hoping that Cyberlink will come out with a plug-in for Media Center so I don't have to minimize Media Center and fire up PowerDVD to watch BluRay discs. OTA HD looks great and I can at least sense a difference between a 720p signal (FOX) and and good 1080i signal (CBS). There's still detail the 720p, but it's just missing that pop.

I'm surprised that you don't see the "pop" in 720p. Resolution is really the only difference between 1080i and 720p - the quality and intensity of the colors should be the same. In my experience 720p channels actually look better, simply because 720p can be compressed much more gracefully than 1080i.


One other thing about BlueRay playback, even in PowerDVD 8. I've been noticing that I've been getting a fair amount of saturated whites that I didn't see on my father's plasma using a PS3 as the player. Anyone else using an HTPC experience this? Any tweaks that I can perform? Normal OTA HD and HDDVD playback from the same PC don't show this behavior.

Try adjusting the contrast. The PC is probably putting out PC levels (0-255) and the TV may be expecting video levels (16-235). Lowering contrast and raising brightness my fix this.

One last thing. When the HTPC is booting there are a few spots where the resolution is changing and all I see on the TV is the blue box in the left corner saying "HDMI 1 PVR". Now, I noticed that there was a little noise in the blue box so I swapped over to my DVD input (the player was off) and the noise was less. Switching back to the HTPC and the noise came back. Figuring that this is a digital link and that as long as the receiver can see a 1 or 0 the picture should be perfect, why am I seeing noise? Ground noise from the PC getting into the input? Bad clocking of the digital stream to the TV, i.e. too much jitter?

You aren't going to see analog noise or hum bars on a digital input and digital TV. Plasmas have some noise, especially at low picture levels. Just don't sit so close.

If they are visible at all then it isn't "crushing" the detail. It may be that those lines are not meant to be easily seen. Best thing to do it check out test patterns.

My point was that in studio ref mode, the lines are hardly visible when compared to custom mode. I've noticed this on OTA HD and HDDVD/BluRay, that there is a lack of shadow detail, but if I switch to custom and use the same settings from studio ref (Picture, Contrast, ..., Color Temp, etc) that more detail comes out of the picture. I'm just saying that studio ref could use some calibration on my set and I haven't done that yet while breaking it in. At this point, there probably won't be much change in the picture between now and the 100+ hour mark so hopefully this week I'll get to pop in a calibration disc.

BTW, can Studio Ref be adjusted? It's been a while, but it seems like I tried playing with one or two of the adjustments and didn't notice a difference in the picture.

I'm surprised that you don't see the "pop" in 720p. Resolution is really the only difference between 1080i and 720p - the quality and intensity of the colors should be the same. In my experience 720p channels actually look better, simply because 720p can be compressed much more gracefully than 1080i.

Pop may have been the wrong word. I was mainly just noticing that 720 didn't have the fine detail of 1080i, and obviously it can't, being a lower res. I was just hoping for a slightly sharper picture from 720p. After seeing scalars from Realta and Faroudja (this one is in my DVD player), I was just hoping to get a little more.

Try adjusting the contrast. The PC is probably putting out PC levels (0-255) and the TV may be expecting video levels (16-235). Lowering contrast and raising brightness my fix this.

I've only eye-balled the adjustments in custom mode at this point. Like I said above, hoping to get to the true adjustment phase soon.

You aren't going to see analog noise or hum bars on a digital input and digital TV. Plasmas have some noise, especially at low picture levels. Just don't sit so close.

I realize that a digital link is digital and nothing is lost as long as the receiver sees the 1's and 0's correctly. The point was that I was noticing more noise, 10 feet back at my couch, in the blue tv input box when the HTPC was selected vs. the DVD player (both HDMI). Short of watching scrolling text along CNN's broadcast, I doubt I'll ever notice the slight increase in noise on the picture, but it was disappointing.

BTW, can Studio Ref be adjusted? It's been a while, but it seems like I tried playing with one or two of the adjustments and didn't notice a difference in the picture.


It is hard to see a difference, but everything can be adjusted. You have to be sort of extreme with the adjustment to see it. I have my picture and brightness around 50 and sharpness around 38. I know factory studio ref mode the picture was 100. The set does look better up around 80 but I am pretty sure I haven't reached 100 hours yet; so I am leaving it at the half way mark.

Comparison between the Top of the Line Panasonic and the Pioneer Elite. Good to see that the Panasonic held it's ground against the more expensive Pioneer.

http://hdguru.com/first-pioneer-elite-kuro-pro-111fd-review/252/

Comparison between the Top of the Line Panasonic and the Pioneer Elite. Good to see that the Panasonic held it's ground against the more expensive Pioneer.

http://hdguru.com/first-pioneer-elite-kuro-pro-111fd-review/252/

Thanks for the link.
The HD Guru all so had the 850 w/better color than the 800,
whereas CNET had the 800 w/better color.

Does anyone know if panasonic has acknowledged its 1080P/24 flicker problem and plans to (if its possible) fix this with a firmware update?

Is it possible to set the TV to 72HZ for 1080P/24 signals like the pioneers due.

I plan on buying a 58PZ850U when it comes out and connecting it with an Onkyo TX-NR905. Thoughts on that combo would be nice as well.

How much to people even care about 1080P/24 when watching movies?

Panasonic Viera TH-50PZ850U
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for Panasonic Viera TH-50PZ850U
User rating
9/10
Spectacular
User summary

"Increased Colour Gamut+Studio Reference = PZ800TXH KILLER"

by Megaloma (see profile) - July 6, 2008

Pros: Jaw dropping picture in Studio Reference mode, all the picture tweaks you'd ever use, deep, rich sound for flat panel speakers, viera cast a nice, currently gimmicky bonus.

Cons: $500 premium a little high for essentially increased colour gamut and viera cast that is of little value at this time.

1 out of 1 users found this opinion helpful

Full user opinion
I was so shocked by cnet's rating of the Panasonic TH50PZ850U, that I had to write my first cnet review after spending a with each tv. I purchsed the TH50PZ800U THX model of this plasma at a summer sale for a $500 discount. The tv had hands down the best looking image compared to all the tv's in store such as the sony xbr4 and the samsung toc. I was seriously considering the xbr4 since fall of 07 to replace my samsung 1080i capable crt. After purchasing a PS3 a couple months later, I was set on finding a tv that addressed the issues that kept me clinging to my crt: black blacks levels, high contrast ratio, colour accuracy, long panel life with no burn issues.

The xbr4 impressed me with its colour accuracy, deep blacks (for an lcd) and improved speed via 120hz processing. I knew the THX panasonic plasma was coming and would have deeper blacks, naturally faster speed and I was waiting to see how the colours would compare. I was glad I waited for the thx enabled panasonic. It completely trumped the image of xbr4 and the price discount had me sold. I enjoyed the tv for a week with an assortment of bluray movies, games, dvds and my imac through a dvi to hdmi adapter. Everything looked amazing in thx mode with a few minor modifications. If you own an intel imac, I strongly recommend a dvi to hdmi adapter and the mac dvi adapter. For about $50 of cable, you'll get a picture so clear and vivid, that it switched me to a wireless keyboard setup to do virtually all my computing through the tv. You'll save some dollars compared to apple tv and won't be limited by apple tv interface.

After a week with the pz800, the salesman from the store told me the 850's were in at that I should have a look. Both tv's were setup side by side with thx set to my modified preferences on the 800 and the studio reference mode on the pz850. The panels were running planet earth's pole to pole disc and the 850's increased colour gamut was apparent through the subtle colour details that could not be seen in the 800. The arctic ice colours have finer green and blue details (the snow and ice just have extra sparkle), additional colour range can be seen in the feathers of the birds of paradise (greater black detail also) and the rich red hues of the seasonal forrest transitions shots are absolutely breathtaking on the 850. The THX panel in direct comparison looked muted to me. I paid the sales price difference and left with the new tv.

After a week with the 850, I have no regrets about the $500 upgrade cost. The extra 'pop' in the colours is worth the price even if the colour accuracy may not be a 100% accurate in testing, they are far more appealing. I can see what cnet was going for in their custom setting for the 850 as it appears more like the thx mode of 800, though very comparable to the studio reference (you can't exactly duplicate thx mode on the 850 through the pro settings). Basically, between the studio ref and pro settings, you have the choice between the thx modes extreme accuracy and the high colour pop of the studio reference. Would have been nice if panasonic include the thx mode in the 850 though. Overall the difference between the two for movie like sunshine on bluray is that both will treat you to an amazing, colour accurate image, but on the 850 you will 'feel' it.

If price point is not a major issue for you, I recommend the 850 over 800 hands down. After a week with each tv, I feel comfortable that the 850 with its higher colour gamut will still keep me satisfied when the xbr8 and the kuro/panasonic plasma come out over the next year. Maybe in a another the year, the fun but pointless viera cast will have some uses that are not apparent now. Panasonic, please at least offer more customizable weather (major US cities only), stock info (more customization of the main view and more currency/commodity price tracking options would be nice), and choice of major news sources.

If you have the chance, compare the thx to the studio reference in store with some high def media you are familiar with (the difference is even noticeable in the Vivid setting most stores use). I did and I feel more confident that the 850's image production will age better as media is produced that actually takes direct advantage of the higher colour gamut. Extreme colour accuracy be damed, treat your self to the most breathtaking image you've ever seen in a consumer television.


http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-viera-th-50pz850u/4864-6482_7-32896587.html?messageID=2599983

You can put your own zip into the weather channel on viera cast. You can actually change the entire "list" of cities to all your own interests. I no longer have any major cities. I have school city, home city, and the mountains where i ski for my list of cities to scroll through. it took me a minute to figure it out but I got it. There is a green (iirc) box that says change zip code that you have to click on. I haven't messed around with bloomberg yet.


Extreme colour accuracy be damed, treat your self to the most breathtaking image you've ever seen in a consumer television.


I am coming close to 100hrs so I have been using the higher range picture and I have to say this set is truly amazing.

Does anyone know if panasonic has acknowledged its 1080P/24 flicker problem and plans to (if its possible) fix this with a firmware update?


+1
Yes, I'd like too know this as well; I seen it asked before I believe, butt never answered.
Never even mentioned in reviews were this problem has popped up.
Pana?

Pinktulip7s,

Thank you for posting the Cnet User Review by Megaloma. I will be ordering an 50" 850U early next month. I was hoping that someone would have posted a direct 'in home' comparison of the 800 and 850 to further help me with my decision. Before your post I was on the fence between these two units but favoring the 850. I had seen both in stores (hard to judge there) but felt that the 850 had better PQ. These in store comparisons were made before I read about DCC and a wider 850 color gamut too. However, highly favorable user and media reviews for the 800 kept me from deciding what I believe I have see with my own eyes. Also, considering that a Pio 111 is out of my budgeted range, I'd say that your post and HD Guru's reviews have me firmly on the 850 side. I expect to have one ordered by this time next month. Once again thanks to you and especially Megaloma.

Bob


P.S. Compared to the 800 thread, this thread is sort of slim. Could it be that 850 owners are very pleased, enjoying their TVs and haven't much to say? Reading owner opinions on PQ (like color and the use of DCC) is important to those of us who haven't purchased just yet. Your opinions are valued and appreciated.

I already ordered mine TH-50PZ850U..getting from Penny EPP Prg.I don't see in my own eyes Pioneer Elite kuro has better PQ than Penny..don't worry about Cnet hype!!!why pay double price where u r not able to see any PQ difference?And TH-50PZ850U always has much better PQ quality than TH-50PZ800U!!!

Pinktulip7s,


P.S. Compared to the 800 thread, this thread is sort of slim. Could it be that 850 owners are very pleased, enjoying their TVs and haven't much to say? Reading owner opinions on PQ (like color and the use of DCC) is important to those of us who haven't purchased just yet. Your opinions are valued and appreciated.

Maybe, but note also that the 85 thread has more replies than the 800 thread. That's probably partially because those sets have been available longer, but also partially because more will be sold owing to their lower price point.

Also, I would hazard a guess that after cnet's reviews the 850 may end up not being the model-of-choice for many who would otherwise have considered it (even though it's a perfectly nice set). Personally I have no regrets!

Maybe, but note also that the 85 thread has more replies than the 800 thread. That's probably partially because those sets have been available longer, but also partially because more will be sold owing to their lower price point.

Also, I would hazard a guess that after cnet's reviews the 850 may end up not being the model-of-choice for many who would otherwise have considered it (even though it's a perfectly nice set). Personally I have no regrets!


Thank you... all good points. How many hours would you say you have on your 850, and what is your personal evaluation\opinion of the PQ, color, CR and especially the use and value of DCC to you?

Note: Same question would apply to other owners who'd like to take the time to answer.

Some good and nice photos around?

Thank you... all good points. How many hours would you say you have on your 850, and what is your personal evaluation\opinion of the PQ, color, CR and especially the use and value of DCC to you?

Note: Same question would apply to other owners who'd like to take the time to answer.

I have about 200 hours on it so far -- 150 before calibration, 50 after.

Re PQ...

Black levels: I came from a 34" Sony XBR CRT and I'm pretty happy with the blacks on the 850, though anything letterboxed obviously shows that it's not dead-black at idle like the CRT was. I think the overall blackness and especially the shadow detail on the 850 is great. There's no sign of crush or washout.

Color and CR: Pre-calibration the set was obviously off compared with the reference CRT. Post-calibration it comes closer to the reference CRT but has slightly more color saturation than my old set. The color looks natural but is slightly different from what I was used to. Contrast is more than adequate and the set is very bright compared to the CRT.

DCC: The calibrator didn't want this setting on -- said it forced the color metrics too far off from reference. I've been switching it on and off periodically and lately have generally been leaving it on. I'm aware that it's probably technically a less-accurate color rendering, but I'm not entirely sure that I care -- I think it's a nice picture.

Thank you. This is good information. I hadn't realized your 850 was calibrated. About the DCC option, I have read others say that even though they know it isn't 'technically' correct they find it appealing just the same and use it because it looks so good. Did the person who calibrated your 850 mention that overall it was easy, average or difficult to calibrate?

I'm about to pull the trigger on the 800 or 850.

I'm looking at the following sources:

Panasonic employee store:
Won't ship till mid august but I can get 1yr interest free financing

Butterfly photo:
Ships right away, no financing.

Prices are very close.

Thoughts on one model vs the other?

....The HD Guru all so had the 850 w/better color than the 800,
whereas CNET had the 800 w/better color.

CNET and the HD GURU used different approaches in evaluating the color rendition of the 850 series.

The HD Guru said the Color REPRODUCTION of the 850 series was where he thought the display excelled. He went on to explain why he preferred the color reproduction of the 850.

http://hdguru.com/panasonic-th-50pz850u-exclusive-hd-guru%e2%84%a2-first-review/249/

On the other hand, CNET focused on Color ACCURACY ... when compared to the HD standard. CNET even said:

An argument can be made that the wider color gamut on the 850 looks better, but that's largely subjective. Our goal, as always, is to evaluate color accuracy, in this case compared with the HD standard, and by that definition the 800U, along with the two Samsung displays in our comparison, were a good deal more accurate than the 850U.

http://reviews.cnet.com/flat-panel-tvs/panasonic-viera-th-50pz850u/4505-6482_7-32896587.html?hhTest=1

In this case, I prefer the HD Guru's approach and trust his glowing review of the 850's color reproduction as opposed to CNET's approach which only measured color accuracy when compared to the "HD standard".

About the DCC option, I have read others say that even though they know it isn't 'technically' correct they find it appealing just the same and use it because it looks so good. Did the person who calibrated your 850 mention that overall it was easy, average or difficult to calibrate?

Yes -- that's pretty much how I feel about DCC -- perhaps not technically accurate, but it sure is nice to look at. Fenway Park sure does look like Fenway Park! ;)

The calibrator generally liked it and thought it easy to work with -- was pleased that as with Pio Elite, he didn't need to use the service menu. He thought it was odd that the adjustments generally operated in a fairly narrow range (especially sharpness) and he was amused that proper brightness was achieved towards the high end of the adjustment range.

Finally getting it installed tomorrow - can't wait to give a report. . .

As far as the CNET report - I kind of think they're missing a bet with Viera Cast. I remember the first reviews of the PS3 - everyone thought it was a bust. Then through firmware updates it just kept getting better and better. Check out the reviews now. . .

IPTV I think has a lot of potential and is a nice feature- lets see where it goes.

tvh3ad,

I'm not familiar with the details of calibration. What do you mean when you say that he was amused that the proper brightness was achieved towards the high end of the adjustment range? Is this good or bad?

I think that some people may be selling DCC short. This may not be new news to some, but Hollywood did agree to a new digital standard (DCI) for movies using a wider color gamut. What if in the future (sooner then later I hope) wider color gamut technology is incorporated into BD movies. I would expect that the 850 with DCC and now the new Pioneer Pro-111FD 9G display with 'Color Space 1' may both will be ready to take advantage of this technology. Note: Pioneer does not claim that 'Color Space 1' has wider color gamut so I could be wrong about this. However, HD Guru's review of the Pioneer states that the the colors and saturation are similar to the 850 in DCC mode.

Here are a couple paragraphs from a blog I discovered yesterday. It is from Japan and it is dated January '08 so it is not ground breaking information, but is a worthwhile read. I've included the link below as well.


The blog:

When we watch TV, we are watching the footage in colors that are in compliance with the HDTV specifications, which are the color specifications for high definition broadcasts. On the other hand, the colors used in the movie theaters comply with Digital Cinema Initiatives (DCI) specifications established by Hollywood. So, simply put, TVs nowadays have been made to beautifully reproduce contents of digital broadcasting or DVDs, but specifications that include even deeper expressions in color are being employed in movie theaters.

Recently in the US, digitalization of movie theaters have rapidly pushed forward, thus over 3,000 movie theaters screen movies digitally. And this corner allows you to compare the color resolutions of the projectors used in digital cinemas and the Panasonic plasma TVs side by side. You can see how close Panasonic's plasma TVs have come to the color reproduction of projectors used in digital cinemas.

link:
http://ex-blog.panasonic.co.jp/exhibition/en/2008/01/ces_500.html

I wouldn't expect to see a new color space adopted for a very long time. As far as I know, blu ray isn't technically capable of using anything other than the standard one.

I wouldn't expect to see a new color space adopted for a very long time. As far as I know, blu ray isn't technically capable of using anything other than the standard one.

If you are right about the color space (very long time) expectation it would be disappointing. As for Blu Ray, we could agree that there is only the HD standard for now. But if Panasonic continues it's relationship\partnership with Hollywood in the DCI effort who knows. One could only hope. Right!

If you are right about the color space (very long time) expectation it would be disappointing. As for Blu Ray, we could agree that there is only the HD standard for now. But if Panasonic continues it's relationship\partnership with Hollywood in the DCI effort who knows. One could only hope. Right!

What's so bad about the current color space? No flat panel TVs even seem to be able to handle it completely. I can see the appeal of shooting and editign in "deep color" or something similar, but for the last distribution step I think what we have now works fine.

What's so bad about the current color space? No flat panel TVs even seem to be able to handle it completely. I can see the appeal of shooting and editign in "deep color" or something similar, but for the last distribution step I think what we have now works fine.

Even though what is available now is terrific to be sure. I suppose I'm looking more to the future and what may be even better given the 850's wider color gamut. I'm trying to project it's potential value later on. The description in the blog link that I posted earlier today has the viewer seeing more colors displayed in the wider gamut theater projection system also being matched by the Panasonic plasma. What was feeding the plasma to display the wider gamut is not mentioned and is at this point in time a mystery.

Blog link re-posted:
http://ex-blog.panasonic.co.jp/exhib...1/ces_500.html

I wouldn't expect to see a new color space adopted for a very long time.

Even though what is available now is terrific to be sure. I suppose I'm looking more to the future and what may be even better given the 850's wider color gamut. I'm trying to project it's potential value later on. The description in the blog link that I posted earlier today has the viewer seeing more colors displayed in the wider gamut theater projection system also being matched by the Panasonic plasma. What was feeding the plasma to display the wider gamut is not mentioned and is at this point in time a mystery.

Blog link re-posted:
http://ex-blog.panasonic.co.jp/exhib...1/ces_500.html

You don't need to wait for a source that uses a wider color gamut before you can receive the benefit of the 850's DCC mode.

The HD Guru says the mode created a purer red and caused other colors to look richer and deeper. This occurred without making the colors look unnatural. Apparently, the DCC mode interpolates the data from the picture and widens the color gamut (pallette of colors).

Also from HT magazine:

In the color wars, Panasonic's biggest competitor may be—well, Panasonic, because the company is also rolling out Digital Cinema Color in its flagship PZ850 plasma line. This proprietary technology originated at Panasonic Hollywood Labs at the request of the major motion picture studios. It remaps the color of the incoming signal to provide a color gamut that's 120 percent of the ATSC standard. The prime beneficiaries are said to be red, gold, and yellow. A quick A/B demo showed more intensely saturated colors in flowers, strawberries, and the like. Whether they were more realistic was hard to say. Note that THX Certified Display and Digital Cinema Color are mutually exclusive. You can't buy them both in the same product.

http://www.hometheatermag.com/news/031208panasonic/

After some thought, it appears that that the 850's DCC picture mode is roughly comparable to the Dolby Pro Logic IIx sound mode. Pro Logic IIx technology expanded any existing stereo or 5.1 channel audio so a person could enjoy matrixed 6.1 or 7.1 channel playback. The discrete 6.1 sountrack is perferable but rarely available.

As mentioned earlier, we won't have sources with an expanded color gamut for awhile, but the 850 will be ready when the sources become available. In the meantime, you can use the DCC mode which interpolates or remaps the color of the incoming signal to provide a color gamut that's 120 percent of the ATSC standard. This allows richer and deeper colors without the expanded color space in the source.

Whether people like this interpolated color expansion will no doubt be subjective.

After some thought, it appears that that the 850's DCC picture mode is roughly comparable to the Dolby Pro Logic IIx sound mode. Pro Logic IIx technology expanded any existing stereo or 5.1 channel audio so a person could enjoy matrixed 6.1 or 7.1 channel playback. The discrete 6.1 sountrack is perferable but rarely available.

As mentioned earlier, we won't have sources with an expanded color gamut for awhile, but the 850 will be ready when the sources become available. In the meantime, you can use the DCC mode which interpolates or remaps the color of the incoming signal to provide a color gamut that's 120 percent of the ATSC standard. This allows richer and deeper colors without the expanded color space in the source.

Whether people like this interpolated color expansion will no doubt be subjective.

The Panasonic HDC-HS9 camcorder records with the DCC colour space. It records 5.1 audio as well. I don't think it is reasonable to say that the DCC colour usage is so far off. For once, homemade movies might look better than a DVD ;)

The Panasonic HDC-HS9 camcorder records with the DCC colour space. It records 5.1 audio as well. I don't think it is reasonable to say that the DCC colour usage is so far off. For once, homemade movies might look better than a DVD ;)

Yes, and Panasonic announced last month that they will bring to market two more camcorders using xvYCC (branded DCC by Panasonic). The model numbers are HDC-SD100 and HDC-HS100.

I guess I should have been more specific. Sony also has some camcorders that use the xvYCC color space.

I was referring to Hollywood movies and other commercial content when I said it would be awhile before the expanded color space is used and becomes available to HT enthusiasts.

But, even that, wasn't the point of my post. My point was that the 850 will give you the expanded color space through remapping and/or interpolation. Most people I've talked to like the richer, deeper colors of the DCC mode and feel it looks natural -- even though it's computer generated, much like 6.1 and 7.1 sound is computer generated from a 5.1 soundtrack, by the DD PLIIx mode.

I can't say I know why, but I have seen both the 800 and the 850 in about five different (store) locations and in all but one (an 850 in a BB Magolia) were the blacks good. It concerns me some, because I have three windows to the right of where the TV will sit and compared to other plasmas in these same stores they don't seem to handle ambient light as well as we might like. Has anyone compared in-home not in-store, the Black Levels of the 800 or 850 to either the 85U or any of last years Panasonic models?

In this case, I prefer the HD Guru's approach and trust his glowing review of the 850's color reproduction as opposed to CNET's approach which only measured color accuracy when compared to the "HD standard".
I prefer color accuracy.
However, your points on clarifying my post for everyone are well stated.
I concur & appreciate that my statement is now clearer for all.

I've had my 850U for about a week now......don't know what half the terms you fellows are talking about mean but I do know that the picture is pretty awesome. Anyway when I bought my set I asked the salesman about THX certification and calibration specifically, he said that they were told that Panasonic didn't bother with the THX cert. because the DCC took the place of THX and is better. He also told me that the TV came calibrtaed from the factory and didn't need calibration. I'm assuming that he was talking about the DCC when he said the TV didn't need to be calibrated.

Still not sure.....does this TV need calibration or not? Not sure if I can really tell but want the best picture the TV can offer.

Picture calibration used to just be done for professionals or A/V enthusiasts with lots of money. It was absolutely necessary when using multi bulb projection systems. But it has gotten cheaper with the newer equipment. It is absolutely essential to calibrate computer monitors used by professional photographers and publishers. Spyder is a commonly used product.

But there is always room to improve a picture in a televsion set. The calibrations that come installed in the television set these days are definitely subject to lots of opinion. My opinion is that the preinstalled calibrations are pretty good. Some think that they can be tweaked a lot to improve the picture.

If you are interested in calibration then please "burn in" the set. There is a great download available on this web site that you can burn to a DVD and then play it on repeat when you are not home or are sleeping. It needs at least one hundred hours of burn in before it starts to approach stabilization. I have seen the picture continue to change over years. The continuing change with plasma burn-in has always been for the better in my experience. The colors on my 2004 Panasonic plasma continue to improve and my 2006 plasma is just now getting settled down.

Your local A/V professional is a good choice for calibrating your set. Do-it-yourself kits are not as good as good experience. The cost is probably less than you may think. But wait until the set is burned in or it may be money wasted.

In response to Vashti below: I am using the term "burn in" out of a multi decade old audiophile habit. Burning in cables, circuits and tubes was mandatory, hot and fun. By the time I got into video burn in of an image was not as big a deal as it was when I was looking at those horrible computer monitors in the 1970's.

If you are interested in calibration then please "burn in" the set.
....... It needs at least one hundred hours of burn in before it starts to approach stabilization.......
But wait until the set is burned in or it may be money wasted.
:eek::eek: I think you mean break in. Please don't burn in your set. :eek::eek:

Thanks for the responce. Yes I am running the break in DVD as I type this, will have about 50 hrs after tonight.....usually turn off at bedtime. Had to move to "my" den as the wife kept wanting to watch things with channel logos.....she's still mumbling about spending this much on a TV and not being able to watch it! So now I just run the breakin DVD. I most likely will have a professional do my calibration when done with the break in that way I know it's right.

Again thanks for the help, Ken

Does anyone knows what chip panny uses for video processing in this TV? Anyone hooked a Wii up to it with component cables or comment on how other 480P content on the big screen looks?

Couple of qustions regarding the PZ850U series:

1 - Can it stream media content from your pc like the samsung`s 750 series(movies, mp3, pics)?
2 - I am an avid gamer, 360 is my life. I purchased The samgungs 750 but not happy with it. I went with lcd over plasma just for the fact that you read and hear the gaming is not good with plasma beacue of burn in effect or what ever you want to call it. So i guess my question is has anyone used there 360 or ps3 to play games on the this set? what about game mode, does it make a difference?

game mode doesn't really do anything on any TV. I play 360 and ps3 all the time on mine and never had a problem. Played 360 on my old plasma for 2.5yrs and never had a problem.

Got the 50pz850u finally installed - wow.

First of all - I haven't really played with the settings yet - just been watching on Studio Reference mode.

Addressing CNET's review regarding color accuracy - if the 800 has more accurate colors I doubt you'd be able to tell with anything other than professional calibration materials. The colors are simply stunning. Faces are natural, nature incredibly vibrant. Watching Planet Earth on this thing is a thing to behold. Even my cat couldn't take her eyes off of it the screen. If you want the 850 but are worried about CNET's review on colors - don't. I can absolutely assure you won't find them unnatural or inaccurate. With the right material, you will find them stunning.

Planet Earth really shows off full 1080p/60 incredibly. The detail is so real it's hard to believe it isn't right there. The first time I've really felt like I'm looking out a window. If you doubt the benefit of 1080p - you should come over and watch an episode or two.

Black levels - I'd say they're excellent. Not G8 Kuro level - but pretty impressive. Unless you are looking at a nearly full black field or title screens blacks look absolute. Great shadow detail - the Neo's and Trinity's clothes in the Matrix were inky black. I haven't seen the new Pio 111 so can't compare - but unless you are watching these two TVs next to eachother, I doubt you'd have any reason to complain about the black levels.

Whites are perfect - the full fields of snow on Planet Earth were white - not grey white or dingy white - white white.

Sound - I still plan on putting in surround, but the speakers are the best I've ever heard out of a Television. Can't wait to get surround though.

Viera Cast - nice little novelty. Not much to it yet - we'll see how it develops.

Anyway - on the whole, could not be more pleased. Looking forward to the Olympics and College football on it.

I just got the 50PZ850 and two things puzzle me. When I press the sub-menu and favorites buttons on the remote nothing happens. Also, when I go into the picture menu and try to adjust the brightness nothing appears to happen, regardless of whether the picture is on custom, standard or any other setting. My Panasonic is connected to a Directv HD box with HDMI cables. Is my set defective or am I missing something? Thanks.

The brightness adjustments are hard to notice. Extreme to extreme is really the only way to notice, also a dark room helps. In a dark room you can see the difference a lot better (crushing vs. not crushing blacks).

Try the owners manual for the remote

Got the 50pz850u finally installed - wow.

First of all - I haven't really played with the settings yet - just been watching on Studio Reference mode.

Addressing CNET's review regarding color accuracy - if the 800 has more accurate colors I doubt you'd be able to tell with anything other than professional calibration materials. The colors are simply stunning. Faces are natural, nature incredibly vibrant. Watching Planet Earth on this thing is a thing to behold. Even my cat couldn't take her eyes off of it the screen. If you want the 850 but are worried about CNET's review on colors - don't. I can absolutely assure you won't find them unnatural or inaccurate. With the right material, you will find them stunning.

Planet Earth really shows off full 1080p/60 incredibly. The detail is so real it's hard to believe it isn't right there. The first time I've really felt like I'm looking out a window. If you doubt the benefit of 1080p - you should come over and watch an episode or two.

Black levels - I'd say they're excellent. Not G8 Kuro level - but pretty impressive. Unless you are looking at a nearly full black field or title screens blacks look absolute. Great shadow detail - the Neo's and Trinity's clothes in the Matrix were inky black. I haven't seen the new Pio 111 so can't compare - but unless you are watching these two TVs next to eachother, I doubt you'd have any reason to complain about the black levels.

Whites are perfect - the full fields of snow on Planet Earth were white - not grey white or dingy white - white white.

Sound - I still plan on putting in surround, but the speakers are the best I've ever heard out of a Television. Can't wait to get surround though.

Viera Cast - nice little novelty. Not much to it yet - we'll see how it develops.

Anyway - on the whole, could not be more pleased. Looking forward to the Olympics and College football on it.


Thank you for your 'First Impressions' post. I am considering a 50" 850u and reading comments like yours helps. Viewing the 850 in a store is not the best of conditions. Having an owner's opinion from a home environment is more realistic. I and others do appreciate this and would like to read other owners impressions\reviews as well. The Cnet 800\850 comparison has some of us having second thoughts about buying an 850 over an 800. Anyhow, from what I'm reading, you are quite happy with your purchase. Best of luck with it.

Couple of qustions regarding the PZ850U series:

1 - Can it stream media content from your pc like the samsung`s 750 series(movies, mp3, pics)?
2 - I am an avid gamer, 360 is my life. I purchased The samgungs 750 but not happy with it. I went with lcd over plasma just for the fact that you read and hear the gaming is not good with plasma beacue of burn in effect or what ever you want to call it. So i guess my question is has anyone used there 360 or ps3 to play games on the this set? what about game mode, does it make a difference?

What exactly you didn't like in 750?

I ordered my 850 a few days ago from Panasonic. Should ship in a few weeks.

i have read the cnet review and have one single question. If the DCC mode is disabled, how close does the 850U track to 6500K colour temperature? The HDguru contrasts the rec709 standard and DCC as a choice between accuracy over attractiveness. While the THX and DCC modes can't be marketed on the same TV using the current hardware, can an ICC calibrator achieve the accuracy of rec709 by turning off DCC ?

Hello all!

As of 5pm today, I am a proud new owner of a 50PZ850U!! :) I had Best Buy match Crutchfield's price, and then got their 3-year financing plan that they are currently advertising. Lots of Reward Zone points today!!! :D

I am currently looping the "Plasma Burn In DVD" on it via a PS3, and was wondering what initial Picture settings should I have it on? I put it to "Standard", and then bump the brightness down from 50 to 40. Should I leave it like that?

Also, who here has found the best settings (for Custom) for it once the burn in is done and regular viewing on it is ready? Did anyone email HDGuru to see what he set it at when he was putting the 850U head-to-head to the 8G Kuro?

Thanks much!
Brian

Whoops! Should have searched more... for some reason the search didn't pick this thread up when I searched for "850U" in the title, but did when I loosened the search up. Here is a thread on what people are putting in the Pro Setting:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1043839&highlight=850U

I just returned from BB not too long ago. The Magnolia section had the 850 next to a new Elite 111. The Pio looked very good as is but the 850 needed adjustments which, I was happy to make. After these adjustments, both displays looked very good. Granted these were not calibrated, but they both looked real good. Each had their own merits but in this particular in-store 'one to one' I'd say I could not see spending an extra $1,200 - $1,500 for the Pioneer. The 850 displayed a great picture overall but the Pioneer had little better blacks.

While making adjustments I switched the 'Black Level' from light to dark and the blacks on the 850 got really inky dark but crushed some too. I immediately thought that something in between (medium) would be really ideal. But of course there isn't a 'medium' option. I couldn't help from thinking that Panasonic missed on this and should have included a 'medium' black setting. I wonder if this could be added through a firmware update if enough people were interested. I know that is not likely but... who knows. Do the 850 owners here feel that this could have been or 'could be' useful?

The light/dark black settings have been around on the pannys since the 60 series in 2005; if not before then. Just one of those things Panny stuck with. It crushed blacks on the px60u I had also, both sets have been on "light" since ownership.

The light/dark black settings have been around on the pannys since the 60 series in 2005; if not before then. Just one of those things Panny stuck with. It crushed blacks on the px60u I had also, both sets have been on "light" since ownership.

OK thank you. That's unfortunate news. :( But as I said, I could not help but think that a medium setting would be just right. The light setting does not deepen the blacks quite enough and the dark crushes them. I can not understand why a mid setting would not be considered. I'm not confident that Panasonic will do it but, if it IS possible to add this via firmware, I think it would be 'highly beneficial' for the 850s PQ. Am I alone on this thinking or do others here think so too?

I agree.

Try black extension at +1 under pro settings. Anymore than +1 will prolly crush blacks too.

Panasonic says 100hrs of break in, people here are saying 150 to 200hrs.....for those of you that have had your 850U calibrated at what point did you have it done? I am currently at 120hrs. Also do you think it is too early to start increasing the picture and brightness settings a little?

Thanks for any help, Ken.

Maybe 149 is enough.... :)
The thing about overkill, it generally can not hurt, unless your are truing tire treads or drilling teeth.

I don't know how many of you have been following the Value Electronics display shoot-out thread (see below). The 800u was included in this event along with two Pioneers, a Samsung, LG and Toshiba. All 50" plasma panels except the Toshiba (LCD) and all panels were professionally calibrated. I do not want to get into any more detail or into the outcome of the 'competition' here. If you are interested in that you can explore the link I've provided. A few people who attended the event said that the 800u looked 'somewhat washed out' compared to the other plasmas. As owners, especially those who have had your 800 calibrated do you agree? I expect not. Also, can you speak directly about how you think this TV produces in dark movies? And for those of you who have had their TV calibrated, how much better is the color etc. Since the 850 is essentially the same panel I am posting this in this thread as well as the 800 thread. Thanks!

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1031523