Sony XBR 950 Owners Thread [Text View] - Page 10

KC-Technerd

09-04-06, 12:25 PM

70XBR950 with 5992 on the original lamp here. $20 APC surge protector. No AC regulator, or power backup. Lamp still looks good as I'm typing this.

I generally try to do at least 30 minutes on, and no less than 30 minutes off. I also always operate the set with Cinema Black on.

I still occasionally get an apparent software crash that causes the lamp to remain on indefinetely after the set is turned off. I've tried everything, changing inputs, channels, etc., but always end up at the last resort which is pulling the plug. I'm sure this can't be good for the bulb life since the fan does not run after unplugging. I've had this happen about 10 times total. Lately this crash seems to originate when the set re-syncs to a different resolution via the DVI input, for example when I change channels on my satellite receiver from a channel in 1080i to one in 480p.

DennyL

09-04-06, 01:02 PM

No voltage regulators or backups. It's just plugged into the wall. I don't know how noisy the power is here in Northern CA.

It is on for an average of about two hours at a time, and the average has been about 6 hours per day.

FEW

09-12-06, 12:53 PM

I've had my 70xbr950 for over 2 years & I bought it as a floor display model. My bulb died Friday with over 5,000 hours. I also just plug it into the wall (no ups etc.) If anyone knows a good place to purchase replacement bulbs send me a Private message.

Thanks

LAGuy

09-13-06, 03:48 AM

Hello, i just purchased a 950 70" XBR i love it but there is one problem. During shipment to me, somehow some weird white junk got behind the Lexan (or whatever it is) protecting the screen, i am unable to understand how it got in there, how hard is it to clean, does it require service? It gives off quite the eyesore when watching any dark colors, kinda depressing actually. Any advice is welcome.

The rear cover has to be removed and then the plastic shield and frame are bolted in from behind. Have to remove speaker wires and some other stuff. Don't quite remember it all from memory. The rear plastic cover is a one person job. Unbolting and removing the frame and front shield needs another set of hands. Call Sony and say the set has a bunch of dust from the factory. They might warranty it.

G.B.

09-19-06, 12:30 PM

Have a problem that has come up on My XBR 950. The gray scale is not the same across the Picture. In the middle it is a lite blue right in the center. Would this be the bulb ? Here is the place to watch for recalls on Our sets http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/model-news.pl?mdl=KDF60XBR950&LOC=3 .

aric

09-22-06, 11:20 AM

InvaderZim

09-22-06, 11:50 AM

Ok, so I've read through several pages of this 76 page thread, and after reading about all the bulbs needing replacement, am thinking I should buy a spare. My TV is over 3 years old (is that possible, seems like I've had it that long) and seems to be on constantly. I'll have to check the hours of bulb use sometime.

Anyway, I hadn't seen anyone post the best place (price/dependability) to get a replacement bulb. Just curious.

I ordered from Amazon.com last year -- it comes from someone else, but it's convenient ordering through that website. When I got the set in January of 2004, I had the buzz/power supply problem. A local tech replaced the power supply and replaced the bulb a few weeks after I got the set. That replacement bulb went out in December of 2004 (11 months) -- one day I noticed that the picture was pretty dim, and the next day the bulb burst in its little case when I fired up the set. I didn't want to wait for a bulb to arrive in the mail, so I called local TV shops, and found one with the bulb in stock, but for list price ($249) which I happily paid.

Now, almost two years later, that bulb is still working fine. The set *might* be a little dimmer recently (can't tell for sure, maybe my eyesight is failing instead) but it's still fine. I ordered a spare bulb from Amazon late last year, and it's on the shelf, but I might swap it with the current bulb and keep that as the spare.

aric

09-22-06, 11:57 AM

Cool. I also have yet to find the display of how many hours are on my bulb. Went through what I believe was all the menu settings (except Advanced Picture).

Drew_N

09-25-06, 08:43 PM

JBaumgart

09-25-06, 10:03 PM

My 60XBR950 bulb only has about 3000 hours on it, but I swear the picture is significantly dimmer. I remember the picture being bright and detail plentiful and I'm just not seeing that right now . Did anyone have a bulb that dimmed significantly around those hours?

I had my set ISF calibrated so I'm sure if the bulb has dimmed, the settings could use some adjustment.

Early on I also had my set ISF calibrated. I really didn't notice any dimming prior to my bulb going out. At the time it just seemed like all of a sudden the TV wouldn't turn on. Maybe others' experience is different.

(I didn't check how many hours it had on it when it went.)

aric

09-25-06, 10:32 PM

How do I tell how many hours are on the bulb?

slk230

09-26-06, 02:07 AM

I just checked the hours on mine. 4135. No noticable dimming. I always used PRO settings, and never turn the set on and off for less than 30 mins. As to finding the hours in the menu, trial and error. I have UMRs tweaks and the spreadsheet seems to be missing a lot of the settings. Sometimes I can go right to the hours menu and other times I have a hard time locating it.

Another topic... I just recently connected a PC to the DVI-D port. I haven't found any screen resolutions which will display with out awful overscanning. You see the full screen however it is stretched in all dimensions so that the start bar (Win XP) is off the bottom of the screen, and if you accidentally "zoom" any windows, the resizing boxes are off the top of the screen. Lee

aric

09-26-06, 09:45 AM

I haven't tried hooking my computer up via the DVI port, although now you've made me curious.

The native resolution is 1386x788 at 60Hz so hopefully that option came up in your monitor settings. Seems like on the digital input, overscan should be set to 0.

G.B.

09-26-06, 10:47 AM

I had almost 4000 Hrs. on My first original lamp. The last week I noticed it dimming. GB.

goOn

09-27-06, 09:38 AM

I have noticed significant dimming as well. I have had to turn the brightness up all the way and it still does not look crisp. Black crush has increased as well to a horrible level. However, my bulb did go out last night. I have had the set for three and half years, and I am sure it has been on over 8+ hours a day.(4 small kids) I am anxious to find out if a replacement bulb will restore the set to great picture it had when it was new.

gt20

10-01-06, 09:03 PM

brie_guy

10-02-06, 02:52 AM

We've had our 70" XBR-950 since early 2004. Sony exchanged it in May 2004 (because of deformed mirror support frame!). Usage is uneven because I spend extended periods on the road. My wife's use is more moderate than mine!

I forget how to check the number of hours of usage ... would someone please refresh my memory ... I would be grateful.

About three months ago, I bought a spare bulb ... just in case. It is sitting on the shelf because the picture looks OK, in my opinion. Maybe I should replace the bulb anyway and keep the old one for a spare.

egnblack

10-06-06, 03:37 PM

Hello everyone. I have a 60" xbr 950 and I notice macroblocking on the set while watching SD television broadcasting. Has anyone out there seen this and is there a fix for this. Remember, this is television broadcasting not video through a dvd player. I have DirecTV SD not a HD receiver. Thanks in advance-Rich.

slk230

10-08-06, 02:13 AM

How to check lamp hours:
If the set is off, press DISPLAY, 5, VOL+, POWER.
If the set is on, then QUICKLY press POWER, DISPLAY, 5, VOL+, POWER.
Once the data screen appears press the 5 key seven times. The LAMP hours should be on the left side of the screen. (Mine's now at 4200)
Lee

brie_guy

10-11-06, 01:32 AM

Thanks a lot for the directions, Lee.

Looks like I just passed 5,000 on my set (05018 as of Tuesday 10/10).

BTW, I am curious about some of the other data on the same screen ... particularly the last lines: " LCD PJ Engine Ver. 10. 00E 03/10/07 732B"

Is there a Rosetta Stone somewhere to help translate?

JP

victor_CA

10-16-06, 03:45 PM

Have have had the unit for 30 months. Replaced bulb recently, which was pretty straightforward. However, I get random (1 out of 10) cases where red light flashes indicating bulb failure. I turn off TV and remove control panel cover and lamp cover, and put the lamp cover back on. When I turn the TV on it works. I bought an additional bulb to see if that was the problem, same thing happens randomly. Anyone else with the same problem?

Also, in the manual it says you can customize the picture mode (vivid, standard, pro) settings for each video input. When I change the picture mode settings for one video input(DVD, cable, etc.), it changes the settings for all inputs. What am I doing wrong?

Hello, I had the same problem with the sensor in the little door to the bulb. There is a spike on the door that depresses a switch(sensor) to let the TV know the door is on. The switch shifts around a bit and slides off the spike. If you are careful and look in with a flashlight and push to switch in whatever direction it needs to be in better alignment, the problem with the blinking light will go away. :) (the same problem happened to me over 10 times before I tried realigning the spike and switch/sensor). Since then, it has not returned. I hope this helps you out.

countz

10-20-06, 04:28 PM

Another topic... I just recently connected a PC to the DVI-D port. I haven't found any screen resolutions which will display with out awful overscanning. You see the full screen however it is stretched in all dimensions so that the start bar (Win XP) is off the bottom of the screen, and if you accidentally "zoom" any windows, the resizing boxes are off the top of the screen. Lee

There are a couple of very helpful threads on this forum that helped me get my HTPC hooked up via DVI to my 70XBR, and it looks fantastic!

Try this one, but I don't think its the best, there's another I can't seem to find:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=206854

mverta

11-03-06, 02:57 AM

Hi guys -

I've run searches on this all night with no luck... I need to know how to adjust the overscan and HPos/VPos on my XBR950.

Thanks,

_Mike

G.B.

11-03-06, 10:00 AM

Look here under Sony....http://archive.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=481634

mverta

11-03-06, 05:55 PM

... I don't see any new information there, though I did see a helpful link to this same thread :) I've tried a number of search variations on this site, but still with no luck.

_Mike

Villanman

12-22-06, 11:43 PM

Runch Machine

12-23-06, 01:32 AM

Hi.
I need to remove the protective plexiglass screen as it is in need of cleaning on the backside. Problem is I don't want to blindly start taking my tv apart to get to it and would love some kind of step by step instruction. Any help would be appreciated? Thanks

You don't remove the front of the screen to clean it. You remove the back of the TV which will give you access to the back of the screen. There are a number of screws on the back of the TV that you remove. Then you pull the back off. It is on tight and is sealed with a rubber ring. You can also clean the lense of the projector and the mirror after you get the back off.

esterbenz

12-26-06, 02:56 PM

Folks, I have two quick questions.

First, I have been thinking about getting an upscaling DVD player as an interim solution for better picture until the High Def DVD battle settles down. I currently have a Pioneer DV-37 connected with component cables. I was thinking about a DV-59avi connecting through HDMI/DVI and running at 720p or 1080i. I've seen some tidbits in the forum, but no definitive answer as to whether this will result in a significantly better picture to make it worth the expense.

Second question is that I was wondering if I have inadvertantly damaged my screen. I was in a hurry the other day found the kids had splashed some pop on the screen that I couldn't get off with just a dry cloth. So, I used windex, forgetting about the warnings in the manual. I then went over it with some special eyeglass cleaner. Have I permanently damages the screen?

Thanks.

Runch Machine

12-26-06, 10:55 PM

I got one of the nicer Sony upconvert DVD players. I get the best picture when it outputs 480i. I used a test disk to compare so I could really see if there was a difference in the different resolutions. Based on these results, the scaler in the TV does a better job of converting to the TVs native resolution than the $150 DVD Player.
Considering the cost of the TV and the DVD player, I am not surpised. Even then the difference between my old DVD player and the new one was very small. Unless I was using the test disk I could not see a difference. I recommend that you save your money or buy one of the new HD DVD players. They are on sale for around $400. Even if that format loses you will still get to enjoy some movies now in HD and they do a nice job of upconverting existing DVDs.

Keep in mind that what ever signal you input in to the TV is converted to 768p. Having a DVD player convert 480i to 720 or 1080 means that the TV still has to convert it again to 768. You are creating two conversions that way. You are better off having the DVD player not convert and letting the TV do one converstion to 768.

Villanman

12-28-06, 07:00 PM

You don't remove the front of the screen to clean it. You remove the back of the TV which will give you access to the back of the screen. There are a number of screws on the back of the TV that you remove. Then you pull the back off. It is on tight and is sealed with a rubber ring. You can also clean the lense of the projector and the mirror after you get the back off.

I got the back off, Thing is the actual screen is the only thing I had access to without going any further. I need to get to the backside of the protective screen that covers the actual screen. Some how some way there is some kind of dirt that got in between the space of the actual screen and the protective Plexiglas.

I could never figure out how to get to the backside of the protective Plexiglas part that appears to permanently attached on the outside shell without doing some extreme disassembly.

LAGuy

01-17-07, 06:38 PM

LAGuy

01-17-07, 06:41 PM

I got the back off, Thing is the actual screen is the only thing I had access to without going any further. I need to get to the backside of the protective screen that covers the actual screen. Some how some way there is some kind of dirt that got in between the space of the actual screen and the protective Plexiglas.

I could never figure out how to get to the backside of the protective Plexiglas part that appears to permanently attached on the outside shell without doing some extreme disassembly.

It's pretty involved. The speakers have to come off as well as the bolts holding on the front. The protective screen and surrounding bezel is a one piece unit. Takes two people to wrangle it off.

LAGuy

01-17-07, 06:47 PM

Another topic... I just recently connected a PC to the DVI-D port. I haven't found any screen resolutions which will display with out awful overscanning. You see the full screen however it is stretched in all dimensions so that the start bar (Win XP) is off the bottom of the screen, and if you accidentally "zoom" any windows, the resizing boxes are off the top of the screen. Lee

I have mine hooked up to my HTPC as well. If you have an NVIDIA video card, there is a adjustment page in the driver config that lets you treat the display as an HDTV and has an overscan auto adjustment for your desktop. It works great.

G.B.

01-18-07, 11:43 AM

LAGuy, Any of the plastic places have a cleaner called Kleenmaster ( Brillianize ) in a spray . Don't use any cheep towels with wood chips in it. The clothe You got with the set is good but need a bigger one. Could You please measure how thick that screen saver is ? You can measure it on the side the way they made it stick out past the screen. Is it 1/16 Or 1/8 ? . I got a newer Model & want to put one on it....Anybody could You please Measure how thick the screen saver is ?

InvaderZim

01-18-07, 01:24 PM

Thanks a lot for the directions, Lee.
Looks like I just passed 5,000 on my set (05018 as of Tuesday 10/10).
JP

I checked and my set is at 6,300 hours. The set is three years old this month and I've been through three lamps:

#1 died after a month (Feb 2004). My set had the bad power supply that some of the original sets were produced with (the infamous "buzz" problem), so a local service shop came and replaced the lamp with lamp #2 and also replaced the power supply.

#2 lasted 11 months (to December 2004). It died catastrophically (blew up, but was contained in its case).

#3, the current lamp, is still going ok in January, 2007 after 6,000+ hours, but I do think it's dimmer than it used to be (the set is still watchable and Blu-Ray DVDs, played with a PS3 look fantastic -- noticably better than regular DVDs through an Oppo 971H upsampling player). I bought a spare lamp over a year ago and was thinking about proactively installing it, and then keeping the current lamp on the shelf as a spare so if the new bulb dies catastrophically, I can use the current one until I can get a replacement.

Does anyone think that a bulb with 6,000 hours will work if reinstalled after a year or two? The alternative is to buy another lamp in advance, and I can do that, but if this lamp also lasts for two years, I may have a new set by then.

G.B.

01-19-07, 11:56 AM

LAGuy, Any of the plastic places have a cleaner called Kleenmaster ( Brillianize ) in a spray . Don't use any cheep towels with wood chips in it. The clothe You got with the set is good but need a bigger one. Could You please measure how thick that screen saver is ? You can measure it on the side the way they made it stick out past the screen. Is it 1/16 Or 1/8 ? . I got a newer Model & want to put one on it....
Could anyone Please measure the thickness of the built in screen saver on the front of the screen ? Thanks...

slk230

01-20-07, 12:59 PM

5/32" according to my calipers. (3mm give or take) on my 60"

It also appears to be attached with double stick tape to the frame of the screen. It's painted black to hide where the tape goes. I too have "fingerprint smudges" on the "back side" of the screen. They are only visible when the set is off so I never bothered with trying to get them cleaned as I didn't want to remove the screen and chance breaking it.

slk230

01-20-07, 01:51 PM

I have mine hooked up to my HTPC as well. If you have an NVIDIA video card, there is a adjustment page in the driver config that lets you treat the display as an HDTV and has an overscan auto adjustment for your desktop. It works great.

The video card is a NVIDIA GeForce MX 4000. I don't see any settings anywhere for HDTV.
The XBR is "recognized" by the hardware as a "Plug n Play" "flat panel" digital device. I can't even get it to allow me to ID it as a Sony or as a HDTV "monitor".

Right now the best display for viewing is 800X600 but the fonts are all torn up.
If I try 1920 X 1080 or 1280 X 720 then the refresh rate doesn't appear correct and it looks like the image is rapidly jumping up and down between the frames.
(Think un-interlaced, interlaced images displayed at the same time).

I'm not sure what I changed as when I first started playing with connecting the Dell and the XBR, I had a beautiful image at high res, just too much overscan. (On all sides, especially top and bottom)

Lee

sammycasey17

01-23-07, 11:12 PM

Hi, is there anyplace that sells a replacement glass screen for the 60" XBR? Thank You

slk230

01-24-07, 12:03 AM

Hi, is there anyplace that sells a replacement glass screen for the 60" XBR? Thank You

Try TAP plastics as the screen is plexiglass not glass

G.B.

01-24-07, 10:32 AM

How thick is that plexiglass ? 1/8 th... Sony should also have a replacement... But everytown has a plexiglass place or 3...

sammycasey17

01-25-07, 05:54 PM

Try TAP plastics as the screen is plexiglass not glass

Thanks, I was quoted $431 for a replacement from Sony.

TAP Plastics has a whole list of options. Any recomondations on which would look the closest to Sony's. Thanks :)
http://www.tapplastics.com/shop/category.php?bid=24

G.B.

01-26-07, 11:54 AM

http://www.tapplastics.com/shop/category.php?bid=24 I would try the non glare, but hard to find ...You should have a Plastic Unlimited & lot of Your glass stores can cut one to order...G.B.

kman79

02-04-07, 04:32 AM

Hey everyone, I'm hoping some here can help me with this problem.

My father bought his XBR950 about three years ago. A few month ago he asked me to replace the lamp, because he felt the picture was going dim. So I came by the house, and took a look at the TV. I noticed the green tint on the screen. Flesh tones looked horrible and had a greenish tint on it. This would come and go every few 20 seconds or so. Sometimes it would be green for a few seconds and go back to perfect color for minutes then back to green. Well, I replaced the lamp, and turned the set on. I made myself comfortable and watched a couple of DVDs to completion. None once did it have this problem at all. So I thought the problem was due to the old lamp.

My Father calls me again this evening tell me that he notices that there is some discoloration noticeable, specifically at faces. I asked him if it looked like it has a greenish tint to it, then he shouts, “yea exactly!” I told him I saw it a few months back but it stopped after we had replaced the lamp. I’m starting to think it’s not the lamp and it’s something more serious. I’m hoping it’s an easy fix or a problem that sony has full knowledge of and is willing to fix.

Has anyone had similar problems with their XBR950? If so, how was it fixed, and how much was the cost of repair? Any help on this guys is greatly appreciated, thanks.

Kenn157

02-04-07, 11:16 AM

kman79

02-04-07, 11:41 AM

Thanks for the reply, I would be very embarassed if the problems was solved with such an easy solution, and at the same time, I would also be very happy if it was really that easy to solve. I'll come by the house tomorrow, and have a look at the connections.

Kenn157

02-04-07, 11:49 AM

JBaumgart

02-04-07, 11:56 AM

Check the connection in back of the set. DVI or component. Make sure they are tight.

If he's using a component connection also double check to make sure the colors of the individual cables match up properly from the source to the TV. I remember one time when I was reconfiguing my system connections I inadvertently mixed up the blue and the green (it was a little dark back there and I don't have much room to work with) and it did some strange things to the color balance! :o

Kenn157

02-04-07, 11:57 AM

If he's using a component connection also double check to make sure the colors of the individual cables match up properly from the source to the TV. I remember one time when I was reconfiguing my system connections I inadvertently mixed up the blue and the green (it was a little dark back there and I don't have much room to work with) and it did some strange things to the color balance! :o

:):) good thinkin'

kman79

02-04-07, 12:16 PM

I appreciate the advice.

An aging AVR-3803 is doing the video switching for the DVD and Sat, and I remember my little brother trying out his 360 and used the optical cable that was used for the Sat to hook up his 360. He may have shaken the Component cable loose that leads from the Receiver to the TV. I'm pretty sure the component cables aren't crossed/switched or else the image would always be discolored, but that is a possability. I appreciate the help and I'm really hoping it's as simple as a hook up issue.

Just to clarify, nobody has seen this type of hardware problem before? I really hope that's the case and its just user error! :)

JBaumgart

02-04-07, 12:33 PM

Just to clarify, nobody has seen this type of hardware problem before? I really hope that's the case and its just user error! :)

I've been following this thread from the beginning and I don't recall seeing anything similar. Good luck -

kman79

02-04-07, 06:48 PM

I've been following this thread from the beginning and I don't recall seeing anything similar. Good luck -

Thank you, that seriously does lessen the worry of an expensive solution.

tschang13

02-12-07, 03:13 PM

I just bought a used 60XBR950 and played with it a little bit. I have a couple of dumb questions for you expert owners of this set. Is the pixel smaller on the 60 compared to the 70XBR950 (does the optics adjust for the smaller screen size)? Also, should the 60 screen be brighter than the 70 since both use the same lamp but illuminating a smaller screen size?

One last question. My friend who owns a 70XBR950 hooked up the PS3 to the set and noticed this. When he set the output of the PS3 to 1080p, the letters on the screen is smaller than when het set it to 720p. If the TV downconverts everything to 720p to fit the screen resolution, then why did he see the difference in font size?

Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this. I was looking to buy the 60SXRD, but it was ugly looking without the floating glass, and since there was not a great difference between 1080p and 720p, I decided to get the 60XBR950 (used for $1400). I think the floating glass makes the 950 looks good just sitting there like a piece of art.

cdnscg

02-12-07, 03:38 PM

One last question. My friend who owns a 70XBR950 hooked up the PS3 to the set and noticed this. When he set the output of the PS3 to 1080p, the letters on the screen is smaller than when het set it to 720p. If the TV downconverts everything to 720p to fit the screen resolution, then why did he see the different in font size?

The native resolution of these sets is 768p. Therefore the tv down converts 1080 and up converts 720.

G.B.

02-13-07, 12:47 PM

Both 60 & 70 the same. Optical Blocks same inside LCD panels... Two part numbers because adjusted different for the screen size...

kman79

02-13-07, 09:05 PM

For the folks who were helping me out with my problem, just to keep you guys updated with the problem, I've found the root of the problem. The problem is not related to the set at all, the the AVR-3803 Component Video Up-Conversion was the culprit of the problem. It seems that after the Receiver has been on for a while and has warmed up, the video output starts to deteriorate. I connected the set straight to out HD Receiver and I must have watched Five hours straight of HD programing and not once did the image suffer. The minute I hooked it back up to the Denon, the colors went awol. Oh well, it was time for a new receiver anyways, trying to talk my old man into seperates to drive his Mirage OM7s. I appreciate the help and advice everyone, thank you.

Joe Jensen

02-21-07, 01:44 AM

I just checked my bulb time for the first time and I'm at 8510 hours!!!

I'd like to order a bulb so I have one on hand. Where is the cheapest place to order the bulb? I have a KDF-60XBR950. thanks...joe

G.B.

02-21-07, 10:27 AM

Wow ...Good...... Sony still has them. The 800 is in the TV User Manual. Some threads had People getting from other parts supply's & they had problems....

Megiste

02-25-07, 09:24 AM

My two year old XBR950 has blue blobs appearing at different locations on the screen, covering 10-20% of the viewing area at random times and locations. Sony says this is not the "road map" problem they are having with this set. Anyone have any similar experience and/or suggested remedies?

HouseSold

03-13-07, 01:39 AM

Nuz

03-25-07, 05:55 PM

Vinny Aquilino

03-25-07, 07:00 PM

Hey Guys And Gals,the color on my 60 " in the last 2 weeks starts to fade to a bluish color.I turn off the set,unplug the set and then works fine.But this has happened about 4 times in the last 2 weeks.Any clue?Bought my set in Nov.2003

tschang13

04-05-07, 01:41 PM

Man, I just watched this BluRay movie on the 950 and the picture looked fantastic.

If you don't have a BluRay player, you can download this movie (about 8Gb) from the net which is in MKV format. You will need to connect your computer, preferably with DVI, to the TV to watch it and you will be amazed at the picture quality.

I have never seen a movie this clear and sharp on any TV (not even on a plasma!) and the colors are just ridiculously beautiful! You cannot burn the downloaded movie to a DVD disc because regular DVD players do not support MKV format.

cliburn

04-05-07, 06:43 PM

My set is just over 2 years old and suddenly I am getting the same blue bleed at the bottom and toward the left of the screen. Anyone know the cause or solution?

RAJH

04-06-07, 06:54 PM

RAJH

04-07-07, 10:12 AM

Bump

JBaumgart

04-07-07, 02:50 PM

Wish I could help but my 70" XBR950 has had no issues (other than one bulb replacement) since I bought it about three years ago. But my understanding is that LCD displays are not susceptible to burn in so I would assume you have some other type of problem.

barretto

04-07-07, 10:18 PM

Burn-In Problem

I've been using my 70" XBR950 as a PC monitor since the first day I got it a few years ago. I've recently noticed that after leaving a static image on the screen for just a few minutes there appears to be what I can only describe as a screen burn in. The image stays on the screen for a few minutes until it slowly fades away. It's not the computer because I've tried a few and it is not specific to a particular input. I have always used the Vivid mode for all of my viewing but switching to Standard mode does not help.

Has anyone else experienced or heard of this problem? I'm starting to think I might have a light engine issue.
Rajh,

What you are seeing is called "image retention" and it is NOT "burn in". As you describe yourself, the image is retained for a few minutes and then fades away. LCD displays can exhibit image retention, probably more likely to happen since you run in VIVID mode, but you need not worry about burn in, you are NOT hurting your TV.

Cheers,
//Robert

RAJH

04-08-07, 01:56 PM

Rajh,

What you are seeing is called "image retention" and it is NOT "burn in". As you describe yourself, the image is retained for a few minutes and then fades away. LCD displays can exhibit image retention, probably more likely to happen since you run in VIVID mode, but you need not worry about burn in, you are NOT hurting your TV.

Cheers,
//Robert

Thanks for the reply. I was worried that I may be doing harm to the set. This TV is great for gaming. The picture, although not as good as my Qualia 006, is beautiful.

LAGuy

05-03-07, 04:26 AM

The video card is a NVIDIA GeForce MX 4000. I don't see any settings anywhere for HDTV.
The XBR is "recognized" by the hardware as a "Plug n Play" "flat panel" digital device. I can't even get it to allow me to ID it as a Sony or as a HDTV "monitor".

Right now the best display for viewing is 800X600 but the fonts are all torn up.
If I try 1920 X 1080 or 1280 X 720 then the refresh rate doesn't appear correct and it looks like the image is rapidly jumping up and down between the frames.
(Think un-interlaced, interlaced images displayed at the same time).

I'm not sure what I changed as when I first started playing with connecting the Dell and the XBR, I had a beautiful image at high res, just too much overscan. (On all sides, especially top and bottom)

Lee

Can't believe I haven't checked this forum for months! Where does the time go...

I am sure you've already found the overscan adjustments for the NVIDIA driver. If not, the MX 4000 might be to old of a card.

sammycasey17

05-03-07, 03:41 PM

Hi,
Does anyone know if this tv can display a PAL xbox 360?

I was thinking about importing a PAL Xbox 360 since certain games aren't available and can't be played on NTSC 360's. I was just wondering if the PAL 360 could even be displayed on my XBR 950 or would there be flickering issues?

Thanks

ixion

05-10-07, 12:28 AM

Has anyone tried connecting a PC with an Nvidia HDCP 8500/8600/8800 series card to the XBR950? Does it work?

I'm a happy owner of this TV for 3.5 years now and i'm about to purchase a Vista HTPC with Cablecard support and want to know if it'll work.

Fluffybear

05-11-07, 03:31 PM

Well after thinking it was the bulb (replaced with new bulb), no such luck. Left the set unplugged for 30 minutes, to no avail. Turned on with the remote, 6 green flashes turn to 6 red flashes that flash 6 times intermittently, continuously.

Any clues or suggestions appreciated.

Joe Jensen looking for bulb source still? PM me, since last time I posted a link, it was XXXXXed over. $116 sound OK?

Please anyone help us on no power up suggestions..... :(

I'm not sure if your problem has already been addressed but it sounds like you are a victim of a warped lamp door assembly (part X40422464). These cheap doors appear to warp with time and you can fiddle with it and get it to work for a couple of days, you will need a replacement (they tend to sell for under $5.00). I suggest getting yourself more than one has you will need them again.

wen

06-07-07, 12:09 PM

I've owned the 70XBR950 for over two years now. It's been sitting on a makeshift plywood stand I fashioned in two hours complete with cleats to hold the unit.

My spouse has gotten tired of looking at my quick and dirty handywork and commisioned a wall unit. To avoid the "unsightliness" of cleats, I was hoping to strap the back of the TV to the wall unit. I noticed that a female connection at the base of the back pillar that accepts a supporter band (that's what Sony calls it) to couple with the SUGW3 stand.

Has anyone found such a supporter band that can be purchased without buying a compatible Sony stand (e.g. SUGW3)? TIA

RAJH

06-09-07, 06:52 AM

My KDF70XBR950 is 3-years old and now needs a new optical block assembly. Repair cost, including diagnosis will run me around $1,200.

About a month ago I started to notice that the center of the screen had a lighter shade of color than the rest of the screen. I also noticed that when using my PC text appeared to remain on the screen for a time.

Spending $1,200 to repair a TV sounds kind of crazy but buying an new one (KDSR70XBR2)will cost $5,400.

Has anyone else experienced this problem?

RAJH

06-09-07, 07:01 AM

The technician that recently looked at my set told me the primary cooling fan located above the lamp often gets clogged with dust causing it to either slow down or just stop working. When this occurs excessive heat buildup causes the lamp door to warp. If your lamp door is warped you will need to locate the cause and correct the problem.

JBaumgart

06-09-07, 10:18 PM

Fortunately after 3+ years my KDF70XBR950 has been trouble free, other than having to replace the lamp once. I am thinking that my second lamp is about due to expire, so I should buy a replacement as insurance to eliminate unneccessary downtime when it does happen. Has anyone researched lately where is the best place (lowest cost and good buying experience) to purchase a replacement lamp?

KC-Technerd

06-09-07, 10:21 PM

I've owned my KDF70XBR950 since January 2004. So far no problems, and I'm still on the original bulb.

BrianHerb

06-11-07, 08:53 PM

I bought my 60" in December 2003 and immediately replaced the main cooling fan because it was noisier than I wanted. The new fan was much quieter & still is. After 3.5 years & countless hours, the screen went dark on Saturday. I pulled the lamp but it seems fine visually. I ordered a new lamp. $175 to $240 (after taxes, S&H) appears to be new norm. Even in Los Angeles, almost no one carries the bloody lamp or has a good price if they do.

I'm hoping that (A) the lamp is the issue (the 'lamp' l.e.d. did not light, only the standby light flashes red if you try turing the set on), and (B) the great picture I got on Friday will be even better. I can live without (B). Heh.

FYI, I'm running a Pioneer S-77 upconverting to 1080i. Okay, I know the DVD deck is not really upconverting & the Sony is downconverting back to 790, BUT the picture is still better with the upconversion ON rather than OFF. Go figure.

Thanks to everyone for your posts!

cdnscg

06-12-07, 10:50 AM

BrianHerb

06-13-07, 07:02 PM

Just an update, replacing the lamp did bring my 60" back to life. I bought it from a company I found on eBay, e_tech parts located in Florida, for $165 including express overnight shipping. Ordered Saturday, received Tuesday. Genuine Sony. I'm keeping the old housing & may try just buying the Phillips bulb & keeping the unit for next time. Has anyone done this?
Thanks!

RAJH

06-14-07, 07:17 PM

Here is an update on my issue also.

Replacing the optical block assembly solved the blotchy screen color problem. The picture now has the same "wow" factor I remember from three years ago. The picture is also much brighter now.

I watched the technician replace the optical block assembly and associated module and I do not recommend trying this yourself.

micah323

06-19-07, 12:14 AM

I did a nextag search for the lamp and found a computer company that sells the lamp for $140 shipped. Anyone tried this company? I dont know if we can post sellers names for small parts that dont rival forum sponsors.

Also, where should I look to find someone who has experience with the xbr 950 to calibrate my set for me? Is there someone on the forum that is known for working with these sets?

HouseSold

07-08-07, 10:54 PM

RAJH (or others) I had our power supply and some associated parts (service kit) changed in home by a tech sent by CC extended warranty about 2 months ago. There has been a gradual blue violet color splotch building left of center since then to where it's unbearable and unacceptable.
Does this sound like optical block issues and/or power supply issues?
The fan had clogged before with dust and the heat warped the door and lower LCD shell which has to be changed along with the notorious micro switch.

Are any of you aware of any service updates or improvements that can be performed before the extended warranty finishes in December?

How about excellent alignment by anyone in the LA area?

These techs seem to be follow the dots and didn't even know about calibrations. Sort of parts changers.
Any ideas or suggestions or help is appreciated.

Thanks

jws3

07-15-07, 05:14 PM

Hello all-

I've got a 3 1/2 yr old 60" KDF 60XBR950 which suddenly just died. The blinking light sequence says it's an internal problem. I am not a tech by any means, but am handy and willing to try a few simple procedures to save huge repair bills and a weeks of waiting.
In any event, I researched a bit and downloaded a service manual which tells me as follows:

"+B OVP error 6 times +17V is not supplied.(G1 board)"

The board is cheap enough ($45 plus s/h) and even to my untrained eye looks easy enough to replace. A few screws and careful removal, matching and reinstallation of wires and the replacement should, at least in theory, be done. Whether or not this solves the problem is whole differnent matter...... The threads I saw here point to various possible issues such as the board itself or even the optical block (ouch!). If this is the issue I'll be speaking to Sony and/or just buying a new one. Ii am willing to swap what appears to be an easily reached component, but am smart enough to stay away from buried or delicate components. The G1 board seems to be neither. I pulled the back cover and could see it there right in front of me.

Here are my questions: Is this a worthwhile to at least try replacing the G1 board? My realistic worst case scanario is that I waste $60 in parts/shipping. Well, OK, the total worst case is that I drop the TV and smash it in a million pieces, but I'm trying to be realistic.

Any suggestions/hints/warnings or other ideas?

Thanks to all in advance. Much appreciated.

JBaumgart

07-15-07, 10:44 PM

InvaderZim

07-16-07, 10:23 AM

Yep, for $60 I'd go for it. Please post the outcome.

jws3

07-18-07, 11:08 PM

Needs a "Q box" which will cost $900 to repair. Sony told me to stuff it, so I checked out Samsung's LED sets. Didn't care for them. Unless viewed dead straight on they were all unacceptably dim. Regrettably, I am back to Sony.

I see the XBR5 line is coming out soon. But- the 60" XBR5 will cost $5k, while the lesser 60" A3000 will cost $3K--less than the current XBR2.

I have 3 choices: 1) Fix the old one and wait weeks for this to happen. 2) Get a new XBR2 at a good price or 3) Set up an old 27" we have and be PO'd for the next 4-5 months and then spend over $5K for another set. None to keen on this as $10K in 4 yrs is alot for a damned TV......

I love the pic of the XBR2, but see the new XBR5 as being superior based on the posts here. Whether I would ever notice enough to justify another $2K remains to be seen.

What puzzles me is how the XBR2 seems BETTER in some ways than the forthcoming A3000. For example, it has v2.5 of DRC as opposed to v1.0 per Sony's site. And, it has pic in pic, not to mention better sound. The A3000 has 120hz "motion flow", whatever that is. Still--to me the XBR2 has a plenty amazing pic. Much superior to my older one LCD panel set. No doubt the $5K XBR5 will be better still--but for ANOTHER $2k and only after 4-6 months, not to mention it seems rather new and even more untested.

What to do? Suggestions? Input? Advice?

Thanks in advance

Flyboye2002

08-24-07, 02:31 PM

I don't know about you, but paying 5K for the XBR5 seems crazy. I've bought top of the line Mitsu, and Sony XBR's once too often wasting tons of money only to see a better, lower priced model the following year making my Diamond or XBR TV obsolete. It's nice having the best for a few months, but there will always be something better and cheaper if you wait. No more XBR's for me.

When I purchased my XBR950, I thought I was buying something that would last at least 5 years without being obsolete. Today, it's not even worth what I paid for the stand 3 years ago....I'd have a hard time giving it away without HDMI and 1080p capability. When people hear it's true native resolution they chuckle.

Joe Jensen

08-24-07, 03:47 PM

I'd have a hard time giving it away without HDMI and 1080p capability.

I too have an XBR950 and I'd be HAPPY to haul yours away for now charge to you.:rolleyes:

I too have slowed down. Frankly, I now spend way more time watching and way less time looking critically. I recently had a chance to sell my KDF-60XBR950 for $1000 and I decided that it was good enough for now.

Flyboye2002

08-27-07, 01:38 PM

The thing that irks me about Sony are their stands. They aren't universal for all their sets. If, down the road I buy a better TV, the stand for my XBR950 won't be any good. So, in addition to spending money (lots) for a new XBR, I have to buy a new stand. There is no reason to design a stand for only one model TV. My stand looks great with my 60"XBR, my center channel speaker fits perfectly on the shelf, and the stand looks great. I'd sure be more inclined to purchase a new TV if I could use the existing stand.

THX

09-26-07, 04:17 PM

JBaumgart

09-26-07, 10:03 PM

Do you have a URL for the company's web site?

I bought an extra bulb with housing off of ebay after doing a search for the part number. At the time they were going for $100 - $110 if new. If you try this make sure you distinguish between sellers who will sometimes offer just the bulb itself vs. others that are selling the whole unit (housing including bulb).

THX

09-27-07, 12:57 AM

KC-Technerd

09-27-07, 09:23 AM

I got into the service menu but do you know how to get out of the service menu without turning off the tv?

I don't believe there is any way to enter or exit the service menu without powering the TV off. However you can turn the TV back on BEFORE the lamp turns off. The lamp remains on long enough to do this even when entering the service menu.

If the lamp turns off before you get the TV back on I recommend you allow the lamp to completely cool before turning the TV back on. My understanding is that hot restarts on the lamp may shorten the life of the lamp considerably.

KC-Technerd

09-27-07, 09:36 AM

7670 hours on the lamp. 70XBR950.

Boeingman

09-28-07, 03:19 AM

JBaumgart

09-28-07, 11:16 PM

Anyone know where I can purchase just the bulb and not the whole housing assembly for the KDF60 xbr950 ?

I know if I can find just the bulb, I can soder in the bulb into the lamp housing and save some money.

Anyone??

Thanks in advance.

Go to eBay and you will see some options after searching for the replacement part number. There is one seller in particular that specializes in selling the bulb only, and provides instructions on how to replace it.

THX

09-28-07, 11:36 PM

7670 hours on the lamp. 70XBR950.

How is your picture doing after 7670 hours?

Do you think you'll need a replacement soon?

KC-Technerd

09-29-07, 12:29 AM

How is your picture doing after 7670 hours?

Do you think you'll need a replacement soon?

So far so good. Although I haven't noticed any dimming, I'm sure it's not as bright as it was on day one. I have no way of knowing when I'll need a replacement as this is my first bulb. I'm sure it will happen at some inconvenient time.

slk230

10-02-07, 01:34 AM

Beats mine. 5632 on the original bulb as of tonight. Picture appears as good as it was when the Sony was brand new... KDF60XBR950

Boeingman

10-02-07, 09:57 PM

JBaumgart thanks for the info will try and find this seller in afew days.

Boeingman

10-02-07, 10:13 PM

JBaumgart

10-02-07, 11:56 PM

Guys I know I've heard alot of good stuff about the new 1080P sets out there but I ain't replacing my kdf60 xbr950 untill sony comes out with a "hugely" significant increase in picture quality from what I have now...and in a 70 inch size screen.

I still love my set with the only complaint I have is the black levels in dim scenes. Other than that I love my set. I love the film like viewing experiance.

Oh one more complaint is that I should have gotten the 70" set. However, when I purchased mine back in 2001-02, they had just come out with this model and the 70 inch sets were going for 6500 dolars. So I settled for the 60" but I still love it.

I actually had a 60" for 4-5 months, because the 70" were out of stock at the time. Circuit City was good enough to let me take a 60" home until they got some 70" sets in, at which time they allowed me to do the exchange for no charge. I'm still loving mine too, and like you I plan to keep it until something truely irresistible comes out in a set at least as big - you get used to the big viewing experience in a hurry and it would be hard to give up.

Pro-X

10-15-07, 01:57 PM

Well I haven’t had the same problem with colors as all of you had, well my TV just wont turn on, and this isn’t the first time this has happened. I have had 3 obs, 4 bulbs, and 2 ballest replaced. The repair people told me there isnt anything else they can replace in your tv, since they already replaced them all . This will be my 4 repair. I was out of warranty from Sony. I bought this TV in Jan of 04. Sony told me they cant do jack since its out of warranty go with your ext. warranty. Those B@stards new of this issue and blew me off.

It first started back in March of 05, then again in May, then again in June, TV repair shop had my TV for about 6 months in total got it returned to me in Aug of 05; the owner finally had to get involved and called my warranty company since. Well the owner of the repair center spoke with the ext warranty and told him lets try this 1 more time, if this doesn’t work then we will replace it, well they got lucky and it finally worked great, beautiful colors for about 2 months, then it wouldn’t turn on again. Well they came out and my surprise TV turned on and worked great until a month ago.

The TV won’t turn on the lights flash green then red about 4 times; this time I do notice an amber color flashing first, then 3 reds. I do hear a busing too, like something is trying to turn on as I heard before. I did call my warranty company and she said she see’s the all the work that has been done and this time will have a repair person come out to just diagnose the TV and do no repairs, so they can do a replacement. (Crossing fingers), unfortunately I have to wait 3 weeks for Tweeter to come out since they are busy. I tried calling them from the beginning and they were back logged about 3 months.

Well this time I went to Tweeter and spoke with a rep, he said give me your info and let me look at your account. He see’s all the repairs and see’s that I have been a good client for more than 15 years with them. He walks over his manager and I over heard them say that they knew about this problem with the Sony 60XBR. Let me contact my corporate office and see what we can do, before I left they already sent an e-mail to corporate office regarding this issue.

Today, I decided to look around the net and see who else is having this issue, since I overheard the manger know of this problem with these sets. To my amazement, I only find like 1000 pages of people with these problems. I am already sending info to that class action suit against Sony, also sending letters to my BBB and consumer protection agency, incase my Ext warranty don’t want to replace my TV, since this falls under the lemon rule, of 3 repairs of the same kind. The 4 is a replacement of equal or monies back. There aint no way in hell I want another Sony, it’s a shame my old 36xbr works perfectly and its 14 years old.

I won’t stop until they replace it, or give me my money, period.

Anyone else had same issues as I have?

Pro-X

10-15-07, 03:33 PM

The model I speak of is the kdf60xbr950, I bought in Jan 14, 2004

aric

10-16-07, 12:29 AM

I've had to stop using DVI to solve some crashing/freezing (with the bulb on) issues, but as long as I don't use that input mine is fine. Were you using anything connected via DVI?

JBaumgart

10-16-07, 01:16 AM

My 70" XBR950 has been very reliable. Have only had to replace the bulb once in 3+ years. I use the DVI input for my Denon 3910 DVD player.

Kenn157

10-16-07, 07:57 AM

My 60XBR950 has been great. I dont us it that much. I replaced the bulb once but I probably didnt have to replace. I just did it because I thought maybe the pic was getting dark. The new Bulb made no difference so I kept the original bulb. I was using a Sony 32 HS500 for day to day viewing. I'd just use the 950 when I wanted to see a movie or watch the Patriots on Sunday. Now I have a 40" Bravia for day to day use. The 950 does get used but still not as much as the Bravia. Next year I plan on replacing the 950 with another RP but it'll be a Sony 1080p unit.

thesmith

10-16-07, 08:45 PM

Flyboye2002

10-18-07, 02:51 PM

Does anyone have any suggestions on which HD-DVD player to purchase for my 70XBR950. I seem to think they only are capable of 1080I input... So is the latest generation of the Toshiba's just overkill (1080P outputs). Anyone had any success with the HD-A2 ?? They are so inexpensive right now and I don't seem to think they are any different from the Hd-A3 except for form factor.

I'm also curious if buying a Blu-Ray or HD DVD player with 1080p outputs would scale properly with the XBR950? Should I use HDMI/DVI cables or Component to get the best picture?

LAGuy

10-20-07, 07:01 PM

I'm also curious if buying a Blu-Ray or HD DVD player with 1080p outputs would scale properly with the XBR950? Should I use HDMI/DVI cables or Component to get the best picture?

The XBR950 won't accept a 1080P signal.

I'd use the HDMI/DVI connection with the player set to 1080I or 720P. Try both and check for better PQ.

KC-Technerd

10-21-07, 09:57 PM

I'm also curious if buying a Blu-Ray or HD DVD player with 1080p outputs would scale properly with the XBR950? Should I use HDMI/DVI cables or Component to get the best picture?

I've been using a Blu-Ray player with my 70XBR950 with a HDMI/DVI cable, and set to 1080i or Auto (which is supposed to pick the resolution that's the best choice for the TV, and always goes to 1080i) with excellent results. I've tried the 720p setting, but the picture is noticably sharper with 1080i. The picture from Blu-Ray using this setup is at worst equal to, but usually superior to the best off-the-air HDTV.

Pro-X

10-22-07, 05:32 PM

Well Tweeter came out and all the guy did was replace the bulb, he wasnt supposed to replace anything just to diagnose the issue. This is how it all starts first they change the bulb then more problems. I came home that night, turned on the tv, it looked great watched about 20 min, then went to the pc, listening to ESPN, then about 15 min later i dont hear anything, Lo and behold tv is off. Went to turn it back on, no such luck.

I called back the next day, I called corp and they had the regional manager call me, he was upset that i had all these problems and he took over, I explained everything, he said he would talk with his Service manager and have the ext warranty buy this back. They are briging me a loaner, since they have to pick up the unit. He advised me to also call the ext warranty company and demand a Buy back.

I called back today, they already have a replacement coming tomorrow and are picking mine up. I spoke with the manager at the store and he spoke with the Regional manager and they said the ext warranty company asked for the tv picked up and get a code for them? No clue what code they want, but they need this before they buy it back.

Anyone know what code they need? Is this something in the tv or the service menu on the tv, no clue how they can get it since it wont turn on, they would need to repair it first to get to see the screen. Any ideas?

supaflyz

10-25-07, 07:04 PM

I just bought this tv from my cousin for $2k is that a good price? He only had it since 05.

supaflyz

10-25-07, 08:24 PM

anyone?

Kenn157

10-26-07, 04:58 AM

Well considering the unit was $5500 of the 60" and over $7k for the 70", $2000 isnt bad. However the new models are better and not much more then you paid compared to the original price. I would have bought a new unit. If you got it for $1000 or $1500 it would be worth it.

G.B.

10-26-07, 10:46 AM

Put a UPS on it. .. It was the best LCD Sony did plus You have i link...

supaflyz

10-26-07, 12:31 PM

Oh yeah I'm a college student so $2k is alot, so that all I was planning to plunge in the hd scene. I dont see much of a difference between 1080p and 720p. I saw a football game on my dad plasma tv a 55 incher with 1080p capability. I came home and saw the same football game and it didnt seem that much of a difference. Maybe because I didnt compare them side by side lol. However the extra 15 inch was to much to resist.

Kenn157

10-26-07, 04:34 PM

jredd2007

11-06-07, 04:20 AM

I've had my 950 for 3 years now and I love it. However, recently it has developed a blue haze along the bottom edge of the screen. It is variable... sometimes 3-4 inches tall and sometimes only an inch or so, but it runs across the center 2/3 of the width. If I place a static image on the screen, this image will "burn in" to the blue area and then remain after the static image is changed. It will then slowly blur into whatever is currently being displayed. Very bizarre and very distracting during movies. Has anyone had anything like this happen? Thanks.

castle228

11-23-07, 10:12 AM

JBaumgart

11-23-07, 11:40 AM

Just last night, my unit started making a clicking sound. It's slows down and speeds up and sometimes stops all together. Doesn't matter what input I have selected, it still does it. It is a "bassey" type of click.

Anyone have any suggestions?

Do you have it connected to an audio system? If so, how? Just wondering if another component could possibly be at fault.

esterbenz

11-23-07, 12:09 PM

Folks,

My KDF-60XBR950 appears to have developed a slight problem. This just started yesterday. It has developed what I can best describe as brighter "flare" spot on the lower edge of the screen, just to the left of center. It has a slight blueish tint to it. If what is being displayed in the area is totally black, you cannot set the artifact, but anything else you can. I'd say it's about 12 inches wide and 2-3 inches high. Any ideas what this might be?

Thanks.
_

castle228

11-23-07, 12:36 PM

Do you have it connected to an audio system? If so, how? Just wondering if another component could possibly be at fault.

Yup, thought of that. I turned off the audio system and just used the speakers in the TV, the thumping is still present. Speeds up, slows down and sometimes stops. Sounds like someone is beating a bass drum. :mad:

JBaumgart

11-23-07, 03:00 PM

Yup, thought of that. I turned off the audio system and just used the speakers in the TV, the thumping is still present. Speeds up, slows down and sometimes stops. Sounds like someone is beating a bass drum. :mad:

This won't fix the problem, but if you don't want to invest money in getting your set looked at and repaired, you could always add a cable or satellite box and have either one of these output the sound, with your TV's sound muted.

HDTVinJoisey

11-27-07, 02:13 PM

Well, it looks like I too was bitten by the dreaded blue blob. The set is about 3 years old, probably the optical block as stated on here before, also about a $1,500 fix.

It seems these sets are prone to premature failure.

I contacted Sony and threatened a class action law suit. They told me go ahead, and provided me the address of their legal department.

Any lawyers out there want to take them up on their challenge????

Needless to say, this is the last Sony product I will ever purchase.

orlasttoy

12-18-07, 08:14 PM

im thinking of selling mine to get the new one...none currently on ebay so i have no idea what its worth...

thanks!

orlasttoy

12-18-07, 08:21 PM

I'm also curious if buying a Blu-Ray or HD DVD player with 1080p outputs would scale properly with the XBR950? Should I use HDMI/DVI cables or Component to get the best picture?

A2 looks great on mine. HDMI into an Onkyo reciever then HDMI to DVI adapter to the tv...works great!!!:D

EDIT: nevermind..A2 is 1080i..sorry! (still looks great tho!)

orlasttoy

12-19-07, 10:08 PM

JBaumgart

12-19-07, 10:19 PM

just as i start browsing this forum, i get a letter from Circuit City asking if I want to extend my warranty that ends in April '08

$468 for 2 more years

im still on my original bulb...had to replace the warped front door (did it myself cuz i thought i was out of warranty) thats it. no problems whatsoever.

worth it?

If it includes the bulb (which I think it does - mine did) and you're sure you will be keeping the set for 2 more years, then I think it would offer some piece of mind and may well prove to be worth it.

orlasttoy

12-21-07, 08:34 PM

anyone else get this? i read somewhere that it probably means the cooling fan is either slowing down or completely clogged by dust...sound correct?
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a325/orlasTToy/misc/IMG_3958.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a325/orlasTToy/misc/IMG_3957.jpg
http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a325/orlasTToy/misc/IMG_3956.jpg
if so, does the extended circuit city warranty cover swapping out the fan?

JBaumgart

12-23-07, 12:29 PM

I would definitely turn it in. They may try to limit the repair to a new door, but I would press them to also include what CAUSED the problem in the first place.

boditos

12-27-07, 08:37 AM

Hello all, great 70XBR950 forum, I’ve learned lots of useful things on this great TV here.
Mine has a little over two and a half years and 3820 hours on the original bulb.
Just wanted to let orlasttoy know that he´s right about the fans. I spent 4 hours yesterday taking the back apart and cleaning the fans, all 3 of them. They were completely clogged with dust, up the ventilation holes on top of the bulb. You should have this checked when they service the TV.

orlasttoy

12-27-07, 10:36 AM

whaddya mean "when they service the tv?"

is there a routine maintenance CC should be doing on the extended warranty?

or do i have to call for a cleaning? :)

boditos

12-27-07, 01:42 PM

I wanted to sugest that if you are going to have it check because of the warped lamp cover you could tell them to check it.

Flyboye2002

12-28-07, 09:16 AM

How do you clean the fans? It's not explained in the owners manual. I took my lamp out to check for dust...and the lamp housing was almost spotless so does that mean I don't need to clean the fans? My house is pretty dust free..no smokers etc., and the TV never collects any noticable dust.

BTW....recently I decided to swap lamps due to 4600hrs on the original bulb. I tried DLP Lampsource. They sent an Osram Lamp....which did not work in my TV. I returned the bulb after trying several times to get it to fire up. All I got were flashing LED's. I replaced the original bulb and the TV worked fine. What's up with Osram bulbs?

pma23

12-29-07, 12:05 PM

Hello folks,

I'd be interested in follow-up comments regarding the success of using OEM lamp assemblies vs "100%" compatible lamp only replacements. I finally had to replace the original lamp in my KDF60XBR950 (purchased in July 2004). I checked the service menu and it had 8711 hours on it. I don't know if that's some kind of record, but it lasted a heck of a lot longer than I expected it would. I have my A/V system sitting behind a good quality UPS which I'm sure has helped with it's longevity.

I suffered from the lamp failure indication three days after I purchased the TV and SONY immediately sent me a new lamp. While waiting for the lamp to arrive, I found this site and discovered the issue of the lamp door causing the same symptoms - I removed the door and reinstalled it and I have never had a problem since. So, I've finally had an opportunity to use the replacement lamp that SONY sent me 3 1/2 years ago.

I reset the lamp counter and it will be interesting to see how this one does. I'd like to buy a spare one just in case of a poorly timed failure (playoffs, Super Bowl) and am interested in advice as to the best lamp product to purchase (mfg, vendor).

Thanks in advance,

Paul

JBaumgart

12-30-07, 12:39 AM

Hello folks,I'd like to buy a spare one just in case of a poorly timed failure (playoffs, Super Bowl) and am interested in advice as to the best lamp product to purchase (mfg, vendor).

Thanks in advance,

Paul

What I would do is try a search on ebay for the part number of the replacement lamp that Sony sent you. I am going from memory but is it XL2000? Just be wary of some low priced units that show up, as they may be lamps only vs. the full assembly units.

kuntaldaftary

12-30-07, 01:30 AM

I own a 60xbr950 and today it went on the blink. The red on/off lamp flashes 3 times which indicates that the lamp cover is not on securely. However, I have ensured 2/3 times that the cover is on properly. At this point I am pretty certain that there is some sort of warping going on that prevents the micro-switch from operating as expected. I had this issue before also and the tech had replaced the switch and the lamp cover.

I am going to call in the warranty folks on monday. However, I am trying to figure out if I can get something done in the mean time.

I am trying to understand two things:

1. is the microswitch supposed to press "inwards" or "downwards" ? I thought it was "inwards" (just assumption and I can feel the switch press in) but the posts on this thread talk about "downwards".

2. i have read posts where the little plastic tube-like cylinder on the lamp cover under the yhumbscrew can be filed to make it work with the switch again but i cannot figure out how to file it ? do i file it to just shorten the length of that cylinder ? or do I file it diagonal to the cross-section so as to make it press the switch downwards ?

-kmd

wilbur_the_goose

12-30-07, 09:02 AM

HDTVinJoisey

12-30-07, 10:56 AM

Looks like they heard you: http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?mdl=KDF60XBR950&news_id=237

Thank you soooo much for making me aware of this announcement via a pm.

Yet another reason why this forum is GREAT!!!!

Flyboye2002

12-30-07, 02:52 PM

I'd like to share my experience with lamps in my 60XBR950. I was getting worried with almost 5000hrs on the original lamp. I decided to get a spare lamp from DLPLampsource.com. They sent me an Osram lamp....sans housing. Although it didn't take that long to replace the orignal Philips lamp with the Osram they sent me....it j ust didn't seem right. The lamp didn't fit the housing as tight as the orignal...and then...after spending 20 minutes installing the bulb...it didn't work. I replaced my orignal bulb.,..the one with 5000hrs..and it worked fine.
To make a long story short...I ended up buying an original "SONY" bulb..in a box with the Sony logo....including housing from my TV dealer. It cost me $200. The internet bulb sans housing was $158. Considering the return shipping, restocking fee..hassle etc.....it just wasn't worth my time and effort to save money. GET AN ORIGINAL SONY BULB...with the housing...spend an extra $40..it's worth it. BTW...the Sony bulb works just fine. The TV looks like new!!! I'm one happy camper.

Kenn157

12-31-07, 04:31 AM

I'm on my 2nd Sony bulb. I replaced the 1st one but I'm sure it had plenty of time left on it so its my spare. I watch the 60" usually on the weekends when football season is upon us! So it's not on much at all during the week, if at all. No warped bulb door, no display issue. I bought in Jan of 04. I think I'm going to get a replacement for it next holiday season. See how much the plasma 1080p's are by then. Somewhere in the 58 to 60 range.

JBaumgart

01-01-08, 12:37 PM

Flyboye2002

01-01-08, 06:10 PM

2nd bulb here also, although the first one failed so I had to get a replacement. Now have a new Sony original spare, purchased off of eBay, for when Bulb No. 2 goes.

I'm not sure about your Sony bulb, but when I got mine, the Sony Warranty started the day I bought the lamp, not when I installed it. You might want to put the new bulb in the TV since the #2 bulb is already out of warranty most likely. Keep the 2nd bulb as a spare...use the new one so you don't blow the warranty with the bulb sitting on the shelf. Just an idea!!

Flyboye2002

01-01-08, 06:14 PM

I can't believe the difference a new bulb made in my TV. Although my original bulb had over 5000hrs...it was still working OK...so I thought!!! When I put the new bulb in the TV......the brightness and detail in the black levels were much better. The picture in PRO mode....now looks brighter than it did before in the Vivid mode...only much cleaner with smoother colors a more film like character. I can't even stand to watch in in Vivid anymore...it's just too bright. I guess I could have it recalibrated...but the PRO mode was where I originally setup everything for my room. Best investment I made lately in buying a new lamp.

pma23

01-01-08, 07:54 PM

Can anyone provide information regarding the differences between these two lamps? I had an XL-2100U as my original lamp. When I checked SONY's site, they indicated that the XL-2100U had been replaced by the XL-2100.

Many, many sites are selling these bulbs as interchangeable but other sites claim that the 2100 is an upgrade with a longer life of 2,000 hours.

This doesn't jibe with information from Phillips (lamp OEM) which states that the 2100U lamps are rated at 6,000 hours @ 120W (KDF-70XBR950 and 8,000 hours @ 100W (KDF-60XBR950). From my own experience, these numbers seem correct.

Any info would be appreciated as I'm trying to purchase a spare OEM lamp and it appears as though many firms may be selling discontinued lamps as if they are new.

Thanks,

Paul

G.B.

01-02-08, 11:55 AM

I think all the same. I can not remember when they added the U . Some manufacture & or Sony may of added it to know who made it without opening the box ? Some of the first Lamps was not lasting long... So I think they added the U then to look or show they was coming from another manufacture. I got 4000 Plus Hours on My first one so I was lucky & never got a short life lamp...

GagetGuy08

01-07-08, 06:10 PM

Thought I would add a few additional comments to one of the longest and most useful threads I've seen in awhile!

I have had my 70" xbr950 since 2004 and fell victim earlier this year to the dreaded "blue screen" optic block problem. I attempted the smooth operator tack instead of trying to strong arm Sony direct with my problem. I found by working through a local "SONY Certified" service center, they were aware of the Posting of Sony's Optic replacement scenerio and much more willing to work directly with me than SONY was (without an active warranty at all). Interesting to know that SONY has bean-counters planning on consumers not being educated as to their companies pitfalls. This means they expect consumers to have to pay for a new TV or high replacement parts cost (unless you know about the problem and yell loud enough). That's business I guess - "NOT good business" though. But wait - Remember, this IS supposed to be one of the largest electronics brands in the world - SONY, right!

Side note; I would always suggest a good system cleaning/vacumming at least once a year (more if you have pets). No service tech needed for this, you can do it yourself if careful -- stay away from internals though. Lamp replacement would be suggested every 1.5-2 years - or when they burn out. I'm on my 3rd bulb and have over 13,000+ hours on the TV since 2004. With kids, it's on almost 24/7.

Last --- could someone please let SONY know they are not the only game on the block and for God's sake, stop making proprietary software that no one else supports -- it's 2008 and is supposed to be a "global" economy.

Thanks to all who have answered so many posted questions. That's my twenty cents worth !

jhussey

01-18-08, 09:55 PM

Great forum!! I purchased my 70" in Oct of '03. Bulb just went out with 6582 hours. Pretty happy with that. I purchased a new one on Ebay {without the housing} for $118 including shipping from a company in Indy. It was a quick change - just 5 screws and a nut to put the new bulb in the old housing.
My question - the lens that the bulb shines into has some dust on the back side. Is that lens assembly that the bulb shines into accessed from the back of the TV??

THANKS!!

johnmax

01-19-08, 10:22 AM

How can you tell the amount of hours the lamp has been running?

jhussey

01-20-08, 05:19 PM

How can you tell the amount of hours the lamp has been running?
To check lamp hours, you have to enter the service mode.
If the set is off, press DISPLAY, 5, VOL+, POWER.
If the set is on, then QUICKLY press POWER, DISPLAY, 5, VOL+, POWER.
Once the data screen appears press the 5 key seven times. The LAMP hours on y KDF79XBR950 were on the right side of the screen. Power off and then back on to exit service mode.

orlasttoy

01-24-08, 11:53 PM

does anyone know if this stand (SU-GW3) the one made by Sony for this TV, will fit a KDS-R70XBR2?

I'm selling mine & I'm not sure if I should keep the stand.

Thanks.

themanstore

01-27-08, 03:29 PM

I have a 70" and have no issues except a lamp that died several months ago It worked for 25 months with moderate usage. I bought a generic replacement lamp but see it is getting dim again.

I see several online sites that sell the XL2100 vs the xl2100U. Which one is better and or newer? Sony sells teh U version but I have read this is the older...

I read a thread that stated the following to check the lamp hours:

If the set is off, press DISPLAY, 5, VOL+, POWER.
If the set is on, then QUICKLY press POWER, DISPLAY, 5, VOL+, POWER.

Not sure I understand the proper procedure for entering the keys. I tried both ways including holding all the buttons down at the same time. No dice... Please help my ignorance.

themanstore

01-27-08, 03:40 PM

Well, as soon as I sent teh above post, I tried the service mode again and it worked. I have 11040 hours on the counter.

Can you recommend a way to clean the internal display parts when I change the lamp?

dougNYC

02-04-08, 07:35 AM

Sony replaced the optical block on my 4 yr old 60xbr950. Pic is back to normal - could it be better? Hard to tell from viewing. The repair tech said everything was reset to factory settings, so I am wondering if I should go dig up the UMR spreadsheet an open a soda. Has anyone apply tweaks after getting the optical block replaced?

Superbowl looked great! No more blue blob...

jhohler

02-16-08, 03:19 AM

I've had my Sony 70XBR950 for a little over 3 years now and have had no problems w/ it other than lamp replacement, and love it!! just a couple of days ago, I noticed a dead pixel on the lower middle portion of my screen. Has anyone who owns the xbr70 or 60 had any similar problems, and if so, if you had a warranty did it cover fixing this problem or do I just have to bite the bullet on it? Appreciate any info, thanks!

jhohler

02-16-08, 11:52 AM

Does anyone have any suggestions on which HD-DVD player to purchase for my 70XBR950. I seem to think they only are capable of 1080I input... So is the latest generation of the Toshiba's just overkill (1080P outputs). Anyone had any success with the HD-A2 ?? They are so inexpensive right now and I don't seem to think they are any different from the Hd-A3 except for form factor.
I have the HD-A2 and it works great on the 70XBR950 at 1080i

thesmith

02-16-08, 08:06 PM

KC-Technerd

02-16-08, 08:53 PM

I've been using a BDP-S1 with my 70XBR950 and I've been very happy with it.

Villanman

02-16-08, 09:24 PM

Just wondering if anyone has had great success with using a Blue-Ray player for 70XBR950? I am interested in purchasing a PS3 from the reviews I have read but wanted to ask the folks here before moving ahead.

I have the 60XBR950 and have been very happy with the PS3 for Blu-ray and upscaled DVDs. You won't be disappointed.

Kenn157

02-16-08, 10:01 PM

I have the 60XBR950 and have been very happy with the PS3 for Blu-ray and upscaled DVDs. You won't be disappointed.

I have the 60 as well with a PS3. Ditto

orlasttoy

02-16-08, 10:52 PM

using a Panny BD30 with my 70...makes me drool like the 1st day i got the TV!
:D

azwildcat21

02-24-08, 02:08 PM

JBaumgart

02-25-08, 12:55 AM

BrianHerb

02-29-08, 08:18 PM

Hi Everyone!
I only check in here when I have a question or problem with my 60", which ain't often (thank you SONY). After 3.5 years (on 2nd bulb) I've noticed a green glow starting to spread upwards from the lower r corner when the colors are dark or w/no input. Haven't mentioned it to the wife yet...won't if it's a terminal or expensive condition...
Otherwise, still love the picture. Panny S77 upconverter looks great, but now that the HD wars are over, may finally get a PS3, I mean a player.

dpzavisch

03-17-08, 01:05 AM

I have had my KDF-60XBR950 two years as of March 8, 2008. Bulb blew (actually quit with a "pop") on Feb 27th with 11,081 hrs on original bulb. I bought from DLPlampsource (bulb only) at request of warranty co(I hadn’t registered my extended bulb warranty, so they said buy it myself and they would reimburse me). My original bulb was a Phillips, and was sent an Ostran. Works fine, no problems placing bulb in housing. Noticed blue haze 6 months ago, but it was very small at top of the screen, and not very distracting. Since changing the bulb the haze has taken over the right half of the screen. Must only be on one lcd, since the haze is not on bright white scenes, or a totally green scene either, just scenes that have multiple colors (like flesh tones). That is why I am here, and will call Sony for repair under their service policy posted here. I have 3 more years on an extended warranty, so if Sony refuses to fix it, I can fall back on the extended warranty. Just wanted to make sure I wasn’t losing my mind. Great site.

P7M8

03-17-08, 10:45 AM

Has anyone had a problem with the lamp cover door? My first one became warped, ordered a new one, and like every other day it will not start up. I take the cover off and screw it back in, and it works fine. Just a real annoyance. Is anyone ecperiencing this? Is there a way around it?

Thanx in advance

Mine did exactly that. The second lamp cover is fine but now the housing it screws into has melted causing the sensor not to respond. I posted about the situation on this forum. Do a search for "60XBR950 Cabinet Aseembly, Bottom melted". My limited post count prevents me from posting urls.

I am dealing with Sony now with disappointing results.

skvinson

04-01-08, 12:05 PM

I did a search for "used" and there weren't any results. I was wondering what these sets are selling for. I see one listed on Videogon for $1250, but no past results of what sets have actually brought. Nothing on Ebay. Just wondering what I could reasonably expect to get for mine.

Bought it in the Summer of 2004. I changed the bulb about 6 months ago. (The first one lasted forever!) Never had any of the problems mentioned. I'm just thinking about getting something that's 1080p.

Thanks

orlasttoy

04-06-08, 01:34 AM

any one successfully hook this up via vga-component cable?? i get a scrambled-looking signal...

dvi works but dont wanna use that input...and the svideo is giving me nothing for some reason...

thanks...

cdnscg

04-07-08, 10:59 AM

Has anyone had a problem with the lamp cover door? My first one became warped, ordered a new one, and like every other day it will not start up. I take the cover off and screw it back in, and it works fine. Just a real annoyance. Is anyone ecperiencing this? Is there a way around it?

Thanx in advance

I had this problem, and under extended warranty, the fan was replaced. The door is warping/melting because the unit is not being kept cool enough. The fan was changed about 2 years ago, and no problem since.

orlasttoy

04-07-08, 11:16 AM

I had this problem, and under extended warranty, the fan was replaced. The door is warping/melting because the unit is not being kept cool enough. The fan was changed about 2 years ago, and no problem since.

ditto.

you can get a new door from Sony's website for a couple of bucks, but you SHOULD address the reason its warping before it causes bigger damage!

cdnscg

04-07-08, 11:19 AM

Correct.

Kenn157

04-07-08, 05:10 PM

I've had the 60XBR950 since Jan. of 2004. Just over 4 years and never had an issues with the lamp cover/door. However I don't use the unit all that much. American Idol, Football season (Patriots). I have a 40" Bravia in the next room and watch that day to day.
I think by the end of the year I want to replace the XBR for a Plasma.

twarren

04-09-08, 10:33 AM

I have the 70xbr950 set which I purchased in December 2003 and haven't had any problems with it; it still has the original lamp and using the information from this thread to display the service stats it shows as lamp time of 12228 hours. It has gotten dimmer over the years, especially in daylight so I'm going to order replacement bulb. It seems like the consensus is to get an original sony replacement; does anyone know if these are available in any stores (I live in southern California) or is it online purchase only?

Also, I have another question, is it possible to upgrade the firmware on these sets? (and, if so, is there any benefit to doing that).

danifilthfans

04-26-08, 07:50 PM

Hello Everyone,
I have a 60 inch XBR950. I love the TV and it's abilities to make regular cable PQ look pretty good. It's awesome to come home and see this beautiful TV sitting waiting for me to watch it :p

The one problem I am having is the Black and White issue. My Blacks are really grey and my Whites are way too bright. The TV's setting have been left stock because I know the dangers of messing with them. A long time ago I messed with the settings on a CRT and never could get the thing to look right again.

I have recently purchased a PIONEER DV-400V-K. I know it's not the latest and greatest HDMI player, but it looks fairly good. I am using a Monster Cable HDMI400/DVI-2M cable to my TV. I noticed that I can only set the resolution settings to 720x480p and if I go any higher I will lose the picture.

I thought this set was at least 720p?

Also I have the DVD player set to "Full Range RGB". All the DVD player video settings are stock. The picture detail looks great, other than the Blacks and Whites. The Blacks are very much grey and the Whites are a bit much. I have read some things about Extended/Full Range RGB, Normal RGB, and Component. Other topics were saying that DVI only takes RGB and not Component. That is definitely true.

I tried to watch Sweeny Todd last night and it was miserable. The movie has a very dark background and I could barely see anything. All black detail was horrible. Basically there were no differences in black. Anything that was relatively dark just blended into one big gray area. The only things that looked good were the brighter sections of the movie. It makes it very hard to watch dark scenes in movies. I also have noticed that DVD players "Screen Saver" black screen also looks washed out.

I recently replaced the TV's Bulb because the original burned out. The TV was way brighter after that. So I'm guessing it is pretty far out of calibration.

My questions are:

Who has used DVE or any other DVD based calibration system? Did it help? How hard was it?

Can I calibrate this TV with a DVD based system?

Does anyone have any tips or tricks that helped achieve "Blacker than Black" and a smooth grey scale?

Any info on the Color Temps? I know there is “Warm”, “Neutral” and “Cool”. Can they be described in better detail, i.e. the actual Color Temps.

I just want to make the TV look the best that it can and complete the movie watching experience.

Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

Flyboye2002

05-02-08, 03:54 PM

There isn't any way to get "blacker than black" on an LCD projection set. You can burn the brightness down using the PRO setting, try calibrating it with the AVIA test DVD....and it's about as good as it's gonna get. Don't waste your money on gray scale calibration...just use the warm setting and be happy with your TV.

danifilthfans

05-02-08, 07:48 PM

The problem was the DVD player I had. I needed to update the firmware to be able to use RGB and 1080i. Now the thing looks great when watching movies, and I was able to watch Sweeny Todd without it making my eyes hurt :)

I know it's not BTB, but the black detail is much better now. I was able to see the little details on peoples dark jackets in the movie. Before it just looked like a blob of grey without any detail at all.

Thank you!

KC-Technerd

05-02-08, 10:26 PM

There isn't any way to get "blacker than black" on an LCD projection set.

?????????

Being LCD projection has nothing to do with "blacker than black". What it does do is output some light (perhaps more than desirable) at absolute black. On a correctly calibrated monitor, any information in the video signal that is recorded below reference black level, or "blacker than black" should not be visible, regardless of the type of video monitor being used. If you are viewing "blacker than black", then your monitor is not correctly calibrated.

Dan,

I would recommend calibrating the TV with a copy of DVE. It's not all that difficult to make the basic calibration settings. An advanced calibration will further improve the picture, but I recommend leaving that in the hands of a professional. One of the advantages of a basic calibration using the DVI input is that the calibrated settings will be the same for EVERY digital input on the TV (DVI, iLink, and the internal ATSC tuner). I've gone a bit beyond the basic calibration on mine, and I am thrilled with the results.

Also if you're using HDMI-DVI, I'm not sure the proper setting for connecting to the 950XBR is full-range RGB. You should be using RGB (16-235) or whatever equivalent to that your DVD player provides. (I'm not sure if that would be extended, full, or normal). Make sure that is right before you calibrate.

The XBR 950 can benefit greatly from a professional calibration (no, not the Best Buy geek squad).

danifilthfans

05-03-08, 09:37 PM

I thought it could accept BTB. Everyone else said it could. LCD is LCD, you just have different option of lighting it.

+1 on using RGB and not extended. Extended was clipping my lower black values.

I am looking to purchase DVE in a week or so. I will only do the basic calibration because I feel I will make the TV worse if I mess with the advance settings :p

The PQ looks so much better after switching to RGB, now I can't wait to see the results after calibration.

Thank you for all the responses!

KC-Technerd

05-03-08, 10:14 PM

I thought it could accept BTB. Everyone else said it could. LCD is LCD, you just have different option of lighting it.

Yes, the 950XBR will accept blacker than black. You'll see this when you set the black level using DVE, as long as your DVD player will output BTB. The pluge pattern on DVE includes 3 stripes on each side of the screen. One is below reference level black (or BTB) and 2 are above reference black. When the brightness (or black level) is set too high, the dark stripe becomes visible against a gray background. If you only see 2 stripes no matter how high you turn up the brightness, then something in the system is not passing BTB. Assuming BTB is passed, and all 3 stripes are visible, then black level is set by reducing the brightness setting just until the darkest strip becomes indistinguishable against the background. This matches reference black level to the minimum light output possible from the display. BTB info should be BELOW the minimum light output possible from the display, and therefore not visible.

G.B.

05-04-08, 12:26 PM

KC, Welcome back I had the 950 XBR. Remember We had lots of posts...

yudaman33

05-05-08, 04:30 AM

I have a dilemma with my 70xbr950. In the morning and afternoon, the picture is as good as HD and some SD get. But when evening arrives,(like say past 7PM) the picture becomes unbelievably stale. The bright colors seem to dissapate for some reason, forcing me to wait until morning to have the pristine picture return. Does anyone else have a problem with this? And are there good solutions to fix this problem?

ramskie

05-15-08, 12:59 AM

lamp cover's been warped for quite sometime now...tried searching the internet to buy a replacement lamp cover and had no luck finding one....does anyone know where i can buy a new lamp cover???...thanks..

InvaderZim

05-17-08, 02:04 AM

Howdy!

I have the 70" Sony XBR950, bought in January of 2004. After an initial problem with the power supply (the infamous "buzz"), it's been great -- I'm on the third bulb and the set gets a lot of use, so that's not bad (the last bulb went 8,000 hours and I replaced it before it blew).

However, now it looks like this set is devleoping an odd problem and I was wondering if anyone here has seen this before. First, we noticed a blue-tinged area at the very bottom left-hand corner of the screen. It's maybe 2-4" wide and 6" high and is not always there. I haven't been able to spot the pattern yet.

At the same time, I noticed three blue stuck-on pixels near the middle of the screen -- most visible when there is no video source. Now, a few days later, there are a few more: 7 in all, and a couple of the pixels flicker slightly. They may be larger than individual pixels, as if I watch carefully, I can see them during programs from 12 feet away.

So I'm obviously concerned that something progressive is going on. Has anyone had a problem like this with their XBR950? Might this be a dust problem, like dust on the LCD panels? Can I clean that with compressed air without disassembling the set?

Thanks in advance for any tips.

InvaderZim

05-17-08, 02:08 AM

wrj2

05-21-08, 12:04 PM

How do you access the service menu so you can check lamp use hours?

InvaderZim

05-21-08, 06:43 PM

Holy Crap! I just saw this:

http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?mdl=KDF60XBR950&news_id=237

Don't know how I missed that in my earlier pass. I just have a few stuck-on blue pixels now, but it it getting worse. Looks like I have a month to call Sony.

A follow-up. I called Sony, described the problem and the first thing he asked me to do was to unplug the set for a minute and see if the problem was still there. I was calling from work (away from the TV) but we had a power failure two days ago for over a minute and the problem was still there. He still insisted I do it and then call back.

So rather than waste any more time, I looked on the Sony website and found our local authorized Sony repair shop. I called them on Monday and the phone person was familiar with the problem and asked me to fax my sales invoice, serial number, and a drawing showing where the spots on the screen were. I did that Monday evening. There were now 13 spots (up from 9), with a few more flickering faintly, and the blue glow in the corner was still there.

I didn't hear back on Tuesday and was going to follow up today (Wednesday), but they called me first: asked if it was ok to have a tech out this afternoon at 3pm to fix the TV. I said "great", as I figured it would take weeks to get the parts and I was worried about that June 30 deadline. The tech met me promptly at 3pm, and while he was very monosyllabic (didn't speak much English--I think he was Korean), he was a whiz at servicing these TVs. He came in with a huge box that had what looked like the guts of the TV -- a big cube with a mirror attached, and a smaller silver control module. He basically gutted the TV, detaching parts and ribbon cables willy-nilly (made me nervous). The cube didn't have a lamp (d'oh--was hoping for a free new lamp) so he moved my old lamp into it. He quickly hooked everything back up, replaced the control module (I think he explained that they were pre-calibrated at the factory so both the module and the cube had to be replaced together), and didn't even bother testing it until it was all buttoned back up. It worked perfectly, the and the picture is a lot brighter than I remember (I put it back into pro mode, where we usually keep it). It's also bluer, so I think our blue channel was underpowered before and we just got used to it. (Come to think of it, at times, I did think the picture was too reddish.)

When he was leaving, I put the old parts back in the box (they have to be returned to Sony) and carried it out to his van. In the back were three more boxes that looked just like the one he brought in. I asked him and he couldn't explain, but said something like "similar problem". And there was no charge.

My hat's off to Sony for recognizing and taking care of this. A guy at work was shaking his head when I told him about this. Usually once something is out of warranty, that's it. I wonder what Sony considers the lifetime of this set? I'm thrilled because now it will hopefully run long enough for something else to become available for a reasonable price in the 70" size, which is perfect for our room.

Anyway, if you have one of these TVs and you see any blue specks on the screen, get it taken care of while Sony is still doing it for free.

--- Uwe

LAGuy

05-26-08, 02:41 PM

Anyone know the procedure for adjusting overscan? Mine (70XBR950) has a bit to much. Thanks!

P7M8

05-26-08, 04:45 PM

http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?mdl=KDF60XBR950&news_id=261

This posted three weeks after I agreed to and completed an exchange purchase of a KDL-52XBR5 to replace my KDF-60XBR950 that they said could not be fixed. Fortunately I still have the 60XBR950 and they say they will now fix it. I'm still out the cash (credit card balance actually) that I spent on the XBR5.

My issue went beyond the lamp door. The lower cabinet assembly on mine melted. It's the part the lamp door screws in to. It was preventing the sensor from being activated when the lamp door was screwed in.

Heyeddie

06-11-08, 07:13 PM

During the Stnley Cup games this year with the particularly white background of the ice I noticed on my 2004' 70" XBR 950 screen a number of dark blotches and a couple of red as well. They are faint but there and bothersome. Does anybody have an idea what this is? Screen burn in?
Does the screen require cleaning from the inside? Your thoughts are appreciated.
Ed

haggisbingo

07-26-08, 01:53 PM

A follow-up. I called Sony, described the problem and the first thing he asked me to do was to unplug the set for a minute and see if the problem was still there. I was calling from work (away from the TV) but we had a power failure two days ago for over a minute and the problem was still there. He still insisted I do it and then call back.

So rather than waste any more time, I looked on the Sony website and found our local authorized Sony repair shop. I called them on Monday and the phone person was familiar with the problem and asked me to fax my sales invoice, serial number, and a drawing showing where the spots on the screen were. I did that Monday evening. There were now 13 spots (up from 9), with a few more flickering faintly, and the blue glow in the corner was still there.

I didn't hear back on Tuesday and was going to follow up today (Wednesday), but they called me first: asked if it was ok to have a tech out this afternoon at 3pm to fix the TV. I said "great", as I figured it would take weeks to get the parts and I was worried about that June 30 deadline. The tech met me promptly at 3pm, and while he was very monosyllabic (didn't speak much English--I think he was Korean), he was a whiz at servicing these TVs. He came in with a huge box that had what looked like the guts of the TV -- a big cube with a mirror attached, and a smaller silver control module. He basically gutted the TV, detaching parts and ribbon cables willy-nilly (made me nervous). The cube didn't have a lamp (d'oh--was hoping for a free new lamp) so he moved my old lamp into it. He quickly hooked everything back up, replaced the control module (I think he explained that they were pre-calibrated at the factory so both the module and the cube had to be replaced together), and didn't even bother testing it until it was all buttoned back up. It worked perfectly, the and the picture is a lot brighter than I remember (I put it back into pro mode, where we usually keep it). It's also bluer, so I think our blue channel was underpowered before and we just got used to it. (Come to think of it, at times, I did think the picture was too reddish.)

When he was leaving, I put the old parts back in the box (they have to be returned to Sony) and carried it out to his van. In the back were three more boxes that looked just like the one he brought in. I asked him and he couldn't explain, but said something like "similar problem". And there was no charge.

My hat's off to Sony for recognizing and taking care of this. A guy at work was shaking his head when I told him about this. Usually once something is out of warranty, that's it. I wonder what Sony considers the lifetime of this set? I'm thrilled because now it will hopefully run long enough for something else to become available for a reasonable price in the 70" size, which is perfect for our room.

Anyway, if you have one of these TVs and you see any blue specks on the screen, get it taken care of while Sony is still doing it for free.

--- Uwe
This is great that you got yours fixed. However, I just saw the same problem start with my 70xbr950 at the beginning of July. I thought it might be the lamp so I replaced that but no go. Now I found out I could have gotten the problem fixed for free before the end of last month!! WTF?? Now I find out it's gonna cost me $950!!!

Needless to say I'm very pissed. I would definitely get a new 1080P tv before shelling out that kind of money to fix this. And, as you can probably guess, it ain't gonna be a new Sony (probably a more reliable Panasonic plasma)...

garbec

08-11-08, 03:31 PM

I just downloaded the service manual for the KDF-70XBR950 so I could adjust the overscan, but it is too complicated and I have no idea what the terms for Vert position, Vert height, Horizontal position, and Horizontal height.

Any translators out there?

G.B.

08-11-08, 04:40 PM

MID4 0 DHPL 138 119 Adjusts Horizontal Screen Position
MID4 1 DHSL 230 177 Adjusts Horizontal Screen size
MID4 2 DVPL 36 10 Adjusts Vertical Screen Position
MID4 3 DVSL 129 189 Adjusts Vertical Screen Size
Here is some ideas for You garbec... Always log factory #'s first... wide angle is in the Mid 4...

garbec

08-12-08, 02:05 PM

G.B.

Wonderful. Many Thanks!

I will write down the settings first, try the tweak, then report back.

G.B.

08-12-08, 10:08 PM

G.B.

Wonderful. Many Thanks!

I will write down the settings first, try the tweak, then report back.

garbec, Here is the tweak section for the XBR 950... Have a Look.... http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=331875

marteeni

11-18-08, 07:05 PM

Anyone have problems with the DVI input not working? I have a PS3 with a HDMI to DVI cable connected to that input and all I get on the screen is the input identifier in the upper left corner of the screen. I replaced the cable and still get the same results. I called Sony to get service center close to my area and they were completely worthless. So here I sit with a less than 4 year old set that Sony can't recommend anyone to repair.:confused:

Villanman

11-18-08, 07:15 PM

Sonyxbr

11-18-08, 08:01 PM

Make sure your PS3 is set to 1080i. I have had that same problem when moving the PS3 from a TV that accepts 1080p to the 950 that only accepts 1080i.

aric

11-19-08, 09:22 AM

I just downloaded the service manual for the KDF-70XBR950 so I could adjust the overscan

Uh, where did you find it? And could you possibly email me a copy? My overscan over overscans on the top. :o

marteeni

12-01-08, 01:01 PM

That was the problem. 1080p was the only resolution on.

Thanks.:)

Flyboye2002

03-01-09, 08:17 PM

After nearly 5 years enjoying my 60XBR-950 and loving the styling with the Sony matching stand, it's finally time for a new TV. I love this TV but the black levels and screen door LCD artifacts are starting to bother me. It's being replaced by a 60" KURO PRO-151 Plasma. When I saw that tv at a friends house I was totally blown away by the 3D effect on BluRay. It's almost spooky how good a TV can look when the black is truly black.

I've been reading this forum for years so I just wanted to say goodbye to everyone for all the information and advice I got over the years.

Hope to see some of you guys in the KURO forums.

Joe Jensen

03-24-09, 02:31 PM

Here is a post I made on another thread about heat damage.

I've had issues with the 60XBR950 not starting (flashing red light). I learned years ago that this was due to a warped plastic bulb access door. Several times over the past I used a heat gun to reshape the door so the safety microswitch would work. In early March the TV stopped again and I decided to try and order a new door. When I searched the WEB for sources I ran across a limited time extended warranty for the warped door from Sony. This special warranty ends March 31st 2009. I called Sony and was surprised that they required a service visit just to replace the door. Anyway, the tech arrived last week and told me that the door warps when the bulb gets too hot. He said that Sony extended the warranty, and Sony had been replacing the light blocks and whole TVs because they weren't explicit enough in the user manual about cleaning the TV. He says you must vacuum the back of the TV every 3 months. If not, the fans completely clog up inside.

When he removed the back, there were four fans. The repair kit included a new door, and three new fans. The fan for the bulb was a squirrel cage type fan with very small slits. They were completely clogged. He said he was surprised that the TV wasnt' shutting itself off due to over heating. He also said that it's surprising my light block has not developed a green blob, as overheating is the cause of this.

He was a Sony trained third party tech and he said that 90% of his time is spent replacing light blocks, and doing the fan replacements. Most of these are being paid for by Sony.

Took him nearly 3 hours and he was very proficient. There is one more fan that he said was in an area where it didn't see much dust, and to replace it would take many more hours. Sony doesn't send that fan and he is not reimbursed to replace it.

I bought the TV in Dec 2003. Replaced the first bulb for (too dim) after about 7000 hours in late 2007. I used a Sony bulb for the replacement, and this one is already getting too dim. Now think the bulb was running way too hot which has accelerated the wearout.

1) Check with Sony on this special warranty extension. Having them replace the fans and clean the set was fantastic for free. Ends March 31st 2009.
2) Vacuum the TV back. He said don't use a brush on the vac head or you will push dust through the slots and into the fans. The inside of the TV wasn't very dirty, but the fans themselves were terrible.
3) If you haven't done the vacuuming of the set every three months since you bought it, consider taking it apart yourself, or have a tech do it. I'm convinced my set was within months of not running once hot due to overheating.

Has anyone else been told the light block issues are do to excessive heat?

hd_axel

03-24-09, 05:18 PM

Joe Jensen

03-24-09, 05:37 PM

I never had a light block issue, but I am ready to put in my 3rd bulb because I feel the set is not as bright as it was even 6 months ago. The bulb I have in the set now is about 2 years old. I don't have any dust issues with my fans though. I have had my set since 2004, and it's the 70XBR950. I'm not sure if there is an issue with this one as it is with the 60"? Do you have a link you can post for contacting SONY regarding this, or a phone number? PM me if you do, otherwise place it here if that's ok...

Thanks for the tip and the heads up too! Much appreciated.

Here is the link.
http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?&news_id=261&mdl=KDF60XBR950

Are you sure you have no dust issues, I didn't think I did etiher.

To be clear, my TV never had error codes for fans, the back of the TV was not dusty when we turned the TV around, and the fans were not noisy. Also, my TV never shut itself off for overheating. The only symptom was sometimes it wouldn't start and the error code (red lights) said it was the door over the bulb. The bulb door is plastic and warped. I reshaped it a few times and it would work again for a year. I expected Sony to just send a door. When the opened the back of the TV, it looked pretty clean. Cleaner than a PC after one year of use. But, the fan over the bulb was essentially not moving any air. It's a 3" outside dia, 2" inside dia squirrel cage fan. The slots between blades have less than a 1/16th" gap. All the gaps were clogged with dust. This fan is buried deep inside the TV and no visible without removing the back. This fan cools the bulb and the light block. The tech said most green and blue blob problems are due to this fan clogging, the bulb getting too hot, and then the light block getting damaged. He checked mine and said I was lucky.

Also, my wife vacuums 3 times a week and our house is about as clean as a surgery suite. I had no idea that there was a dust issue. Also, I'm pretty competent (electrical engineer) and comfortable with electronics. I plan to take the back off at least once a year and clean the bulb fan myself.

I also think the clogged fan contributed to the premature dimming of the latest bulb in the TV.

hd_axel

03-24-09, 06:07 PM

Here is the link.
http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?&news_id=261&mdl=KDF60XBR950

Are you sure you have no dust issues, I didn't think I did etiher.

To be clear, my TV never had error codes for fans, the back of the TV was not dusty when we turned the TV around, and the fans were not noisy. Also, my TV never shut itself off for overheating. The only symptom was sometimes it wouldn't start and the error code (red lights) said it was the door over the bulb. The bulb door is plastic and warped. I reshaped it a few times and it would work again for a year. I expected Sony to just send a door. When the opened the back of the TV, it looked pretty clean. Cleaner than a PC after one year of use. But, the fan over the bulb was essentially not moving any air. It's a 3" outside dia, 2" inside dia squirrel cage fan. The slots between blades have less than a 1/16th" gap. All the gaps were clogged with dust. This fan is buried deep inside the TV and no visible without removing the back. This fan cools the bulb and the light block. The tech said most green and blue blob problems are due to this fan clogging, the bulb getting too hot, and then the light block getting damaged. He checked mine and said I was lucky.

Also, my wife vacuums 3 times a week and our house is about as clean as a surgery suite. I had no idea that there was a dust issue. Also, I'm pretty competent (electrical engineer) and comfortable with electronics. I plan to take the back off at least once a year and clean the bulb fan myself.

I also think the clogged fan contributed to the premature dimming of the latest bulb in the TV.

Thanks for the link. Maybe I haven't gone in as deep as you mentioned, but I am ready to do so in the next week or so(via mentioned warranty). I too work in electronics, so this diagnosis and tear down is second nature for me too.

I am noticing a green tint in the lower right of the screen(about 10%) of the whole screen during all black video. If I can have this covered by Sony and get it serviced I will go that route.

The reality of this whole thing is that I didn't want to purchase a bulb because I am retiring this set and putting it up for sale. I'm going with a 60" Pioneer Elite Plasma for the 1080p!

I also spent a lot of time searching for a replacement bulb and got quite frustrated because of so many after market bulbs out there as opposed to the original OEM bulbs. The ones going for $69 to $100 instead of the Sony originals priced at about $150 to $190. The confusion is Sony's fault because of standardization between OSRAM and Phillips bulbs, which one is the right one already, for longevity and brightness? See, I'm getting frustrated again. I'm tired of paying close to $200 for that dang replacement bulb... These sets are going on 6 years old now. These bulbs should be $50 for OEM at best, but that's Sony for ya...

Joe Jensen

03-24-09, 07:33 PM

I just ordered my second bulb. I ended up with the genuine Sony. I figure the dollars per hour of use are pretty low and I remember back when the TV was new, this set used a higher wattage bulb than the sets lower in the line. I paid $171 for the bulb

orlasttoy

03-24-09, 11:27 PM

I've got a tech coming tomorrow AM for this very reason, but its covered from purchasing Circuit City's extended warranty (bought the 70 in 4/04...covered till 4/10)

The first time the lamp door warped, I had forgotten I had the warranty & replaced it myself (only a coupla bucks from SONYs site)

When I read WHY the door was overheating, I called to have them come clean it out. Also found this:

Woah, ok, did some digging, and glad I did. If you call Sony support at 888-649-7669 with this issue (blue glow), they will either fix the issue for free now, or sell you one of two TV's at cost. Apparently the cost of the optical block is so much, they would rather give you a new TV at their cost. You get your choice of either the KDL 52V4100 $753 or the KDL 52W4100 for $893, both these TV's are currently selling for over $2000.

Anyone have any success with that? Tempting...

JBaumgart

03-25-09, 12:13 AM

You guys have me a little worried. About 6 months ago we had our wood floor in the kitchen refinished, and this floor sits literally right above the TV where there is an opening between the two rooms. Although the guy put up plastic the dust got everywhere and the back of the TV was just coated with wood sawdust. I vacuumed it off but now I'm thinking a LOT of it got inside, and surely my fans are clogged big time. What's weird is that the access door does not seem to be warped at all, and the TV works just fine. I doubt that Sony would schedule an appt. and agree to clean it out for no charge if there is no visable warping...what do you guys think? I am currently on just my second bulb and bought the set new in 2003.

orlasttoy

04-02-09, 08:13 PM

G.B.

04-03-09, 09:41 AM

TVs still under warranty...bulb went out, guys came & took the tv...

Came back..works, but filthy, scuffed & dented AND NOW THE BLUE GLOW IS CREEPING IN!!!! WTF?!?!

I should have just changed the damn bulb myself.

:mad:

Remember a Warranty is like insurance... I would call someone with the damage... Lamp should of been a in home service call... If an independent service, they may of got more for taking it to the shop? But should of not removed from Your Home for Lamp ? How many Days was it gone? Tell Your Warranty People that...

hd_axel

04-03-09, 04:26 PM

TVs still under warranty...bulb went out, guys came & took the tv...

Came back..works, but filthy, scuffed & dented AND NOW THE BLUE GLOW IS CREEPING IN!!!! WTF?!?!

I should have just changed the damn bulb myself.

:mad:

I would be steamin' if that happen to me.... What is your TV, the 60 or 70 inch XBR950? As previously mentioned, that should have been an in home service for a simple bulb change. If it's dented and the hues are as you described, I would have them replace the set if they can't fix it. They are liable, keep good records of the incident... Good luck!

I see further up in your post it was the 70", still they should have done this in house, no reason to move that big-ole-puppy...

orlasttoy

04-03-09, 05:56 PM

I asked why they needed to take it out, they guy gave me some BS about how they also may need to change the ballast & resore factory settings..a delivery boy just spoutin off some terms that mean nothing...

Since it was a warranty job, I wasnt sure what to ask for when I called to complain (I didnt shell out any $) I basically told them it was filthy, scuffed, and fingertprints ALL OVER the screen & wanted a manager to know how peoples property was being treated. This call was made BEFORE I saw the dreaded blue blob! Guy took 1 look at it this morning & said they needed to take it again.

As far as replacing it, it's the 70...where the hell can u find one of these anymore!?!?! I dont think it'll come to it...looks like an optical block job.

Typical...u go to get something simple fixed & it comes back with worse problems...:mad:

Any ideas what my next call should be?

hd_axel

04-03-09, 06:13 PM

Ask them what bulb they used for a replacement. If they say an original Sony, I would ask for proof of that, as well as checking the bulb yourself to see if it's a Sylvania Osram or a Philips. Chances are they could have given you a non-OEM replacement, in other words an aftermarket "equivalent" that is not as bright, or causing the blue-blob... As far as the optical block, they may be just guessing what is wrong at this point and just shot gunning what to replace.

Read Joe Jensens post above, there may be issues with the 4 cooling fans in your set being clogged, especially if the door melted in the past. Mine never had that problem. If they offer a replacement, ask for a Pioneer Elite Pro 151FD Plasma. That would be sweet if that happened for you. I needed a bulb replaced in my 70XBR, and ended up ordering the Pioneer instead. I went from $180 for a bulb to $5K for the Pioneer, and retired my 70XBR which I'm ready to sell... Go figure!

jkemp101

04-03-09, 08:20 PM

I just became the proud owner of a 950 with optical block and warped door issues. I added some additional cooling to hopefully avoid these issues in the future. I have the details of the project at support101.com/blogin. I thought I would share in case anyone is interested.

orlasttoy

04-04-09, 11:44 PM

volfan

04-26-09, 09:31 AM

I just started getting the "blue glow" at the bottom of the screen a couple of weeks ago. Is this the optical block issue? Is this one of the issues that Sony extended the warranty period for?

hd_axel

04-28-09, 05:33 PM

I just started getting the "blue glow" at the bottom of the screen a couple of weeks ago. Is this the optical block issue? Is this one of the issues that Sony extended the warranty period for?

I had one heck of a time with Sony to address my issue and they ended up telling me they would not cover the problem. I spent several hours with phone calls and back and forth dialogue. Bottom line, I am DONE DONE Done with Sony. I will boycott any Sony product from here on in and never purchase another Sony product again, just as several of my friends have already done due to their misfortunes with Sony as well... If I am in a store/retailer and notice a customer looking at Sony products, I will go out of my way to discourage them from buying their products as well, and tell them my stories regarding my experiences with them over the past 10 years. They are quick to sell, but deny adequate care to brand loyal customers like myself... :mad: I have also had issues with a Sony camera and another LCD TV from a few years back, as well as my 70XBR950 lamp crapping out 2 months after I purchased my TV which they wouldn't cover either. I'm sorry but Sony in my book truly sucks!

Now that I got that off my chest, here are a few links for you to check out. If you are capable and would like to examine and/or clean the block yourself, then read on...

http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/2/409012.html
and:
http://splinke.googlepages.com/sonykdf-55wf655opticalblockreplacement

The above link also applies to the KDF70/60XBR950 also.

Here are the Optical block part numbers:

The following table indicates the optical block part number for the indicated models. The ones in parentheses refer to old part numbers that have been replaced. The accuracy of this table is not guaranteed. Please verify the accuracy of the part numbers before ordering.

2003 Grand WEGA
KF42WE610 = A1606006A (A1606033A)
KF50WE610 = A1606008A (A1606035A)
KF60WE610 = A1606010A (A1606036A)
KDF60XBR950 = A1606041A (A1606042A)
KDF70XBR950 = A1606039A (A1606040A)

2004 Grand WEGA
KDF42WE655 = A1084658A (A1056437A)
KDF50WE655 = A1084660A (A1057972A)
KDF55WF655 = A1084662A (A1060807A)
KDF60WF655 = A1084664A (A1061049A)
KDF55XS955 = A1084666A (A1061489A)
KDF-60XS955 = A1084668A (A1061404A)
KF42WE620 = A1086496A
KF50WE620 = A1086497A

SXRD
KDS-R50XBR1 = A1168495A (A1148155A)
KDS-R60XBR1 = A1168494A (A1127174A)

blueb

06-24-09, 11:33 AM

If anyone is looking for an MBD-XBR950 Media receiver I just posted one to the classifieds section under Other video sources

hd_axel

06-24-09, 04:56 PM

If anyone is looking for an MBD-XBR950 Media receiver I just posted one to the classifieds section under Other video sources

What is that? Can you be more specific?:confused: Can you attach the link where the ad is?

SuPalmer

06-25-09, 12:44 PM

If anyone is looking for an MBD-XBR950 Media receiver I just posted one to the classifieds section under Other video sources

I am looking for a MBD-XBR950 receiver. Can you point me to the link or call me 2029655990?
Thanks,
SuPalmer

G.B.

06-26-09, 03:00 PM

I am looking for a MBD-XBR950 receiver. Can you point me to the link or call me 2029655990?
Thanks,
SuPalmer

I have a Sat-HD 200 & they made a 300..

KC-Technerd

06-26-09, 03:24 PM

I think he is looking for one of these:

Sony XBR950 Plasma Media Receiver Tuner (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170348356914&ru=http%3A%2F%2Fshop.ebay.com%3A80%2F%3F_from%3DR40%26_trksi d%3Dp3907.m38.l1313%26_nkw%3D170348356914%26_sacat%3DSee-All-Categories%26_fvi%3D1&_rdc=1)

G.B.

06-26-09, 03:30 PM

SuPalmer

06-26-09, 06:28 PM

Hello KC-Technerd and GB,

I am looking for a Sony XBR950 TV tuner(?) media receiver. Its for my Sony Plasma 50" flat panel TV. Do either of you have one?
many thanks,
SuPalmer:)

SuPalmer

06-26-09, 06:29 PM

Hello GB,

I am looking for a Sony XBR950 TV tuner(?) media receiver. Its for my Sony Plasma 50" flat panel TV. Do you have one?
many thanks,
SuPalmer

KC-Technerd

06-26-09, 08:32 PM

Hello KC-Technerd and GB,

I am looking for a Sony XBR950 TV tuner(?) media receiver. Its for my Sony Plasma 50" flat panel TV. Do either of you have one?
many thanks,
SuPalmer:)

I'm sorry, but I used to have a KDF-70XBR950 TV (rear projection LCD Grand Wega). The subject of this thread has been the TVs. I wasn't aware of the box for the plasma TVs also being called an XBR950.

JBaumgart

06-27-09, 03:33 PM

Anyone here have a blu-ray player connected to their XBR950? If so, are you using an HDMI-DVI cable and what resolution are you running it at? I currently use a Denon DVD-3910 which I output at 720 and am thinking about ordering the new Oppo BDP83. I'm mainly interested in knowing what to expect in terms of PQ with this TV and if it will accept and display a picture if I were to output at 1280P.

G.B.

06-27-09, 03:52 PM

KC-Technerd

06-27-09, 04:44 PM

I had a Sony BDP-S1 connected to a Sony KDF-70XBR950 via HDMI-DVI. If I recall correctly 1080i output resulted in the best picture. You might also try the native or automatic setting, if your Blu-ray player has one, for comparison. However I would avoid those settings if they ever result in a 480p output as the XBR950 does not work well with 480p. The XBR950 will not accept a 1080p input signal.

JBaumgart

06-27-09, 06:30 PM

Thanks for your replies. About 6 months after I purchased the TV I had it ISF calibrated, and for the Denon 3910 he settled on 720P but it was very close compared to 1080i. If I go ahead with the Oppo I'll try both and see what looks better to my eyes. I don't believe it outputs native resolution but I'll check on this.

I'd like to buy a new 1080P flat panel but I want to wait for a larger screen size than what's commonly available now. Maybe not 70" but something relatively close - I don't think I'd be happy with 55" which seems to be the most widely used bigger screen size today, at least amongst the lcd's at an affordable price.

G.B.

06-29-09, 12:48 PM

Same here ... You can Go 50 to 60, 60 to 70. But can not go back to 55. even if You put it in a Smaller Room.

hd_axel

06-29-09, 04:27 PM

If anyone is looking for an MBD-XBR950 Media receiver I just posted one to the classifieds section under Other video sources

You gotta love these 1 post wonders. They're like a flash in the pan. One post, they get peoples interest and never come back to re-visit inquiries or replies to the their posts...

Cya blueb, and thanks for helping us all out...

G.B.

06-30-09, 10:15 AM

You gotta love these 1 post wonders. They're like a flash in the pan. One post, they get peoples interest and never come back to re-visit inquiries or replies to the their posts...

Cya blueb, and thanks for helping us all out...

Well sometimes People are learning. I am always looking for Vintage TV & Electronics. Vintage Auto as well. But have other places to meet Folk & do this. He was looking for Sony & Electronics so this may of been the place ?

Old_Blue_64

07-08-09, 02:53 PM

I have a 70" Sony LCD. It's 4 1/2 years old, and the optical block (aka "optical engine") is going out. I called Sony, and they offered me a smaller TV at a reduced price. As I understand it, the optical blocks in these sets had many problems, and in fact were so poorly designed that they did not ventilate properly, causing various components to overheat and fail.

I don't know if Sony will agree to make repairs, but I doubt it. I they don't, is it worth $1,500 to repair it, or should I just go out and buy another TV, condemning Sony to oblivion forever for shoddy manufacturing and lousing CS. If it's another TV, I'm looking at the Mitsubishi 73" (WD-73737).

Any comments would be appreciated.

mcd612

07-16-09, 01:44 PM

hd_axel

07-16-09, 06:06 PM

Thanks to you guys I decided to call Sony and tell them about my bluescreen and melted lamp door to my 60 inch Sony XBR rear projection TV.

I called, they scheduled a tech to come out and he said the blue spots were not caused by the door but the Optical Block needed repair.

He said that Sony would be calling me about it, my question is:

1. Has anyone else already done this?
2. What has Sony offered, I'm looking to see what some of the best offers are so I know what to push for.

The tech said Sony would offer a 42 inch TV for 400-800 dollars...I've kept the TV in great condition/cleaned in on the regular...if someone told me it would only last 5 years when I shelled out $5,000 for it I would have told them were to go.

Just looking for some help/insight...any and all is much appreciated!

Well, all I have to say is Good Luck on that one. Sony knows about this optical block problem. Just read the previous posts in this thread. I have spent hours on the phone trying to get them to help me out with my optical block problem. When it was all said and done, their response is basically F*** Off we don't give a crap about your problem. They know about this issue very well and will NOT help you get this fixed. You are basically on your own by paying the outrageous price to get it serviced or toss it out to the curb, sorry to say...:mad:

This optical block problem is due to faulty engineering on their behalf. The fans are undersized and do not move the air properly due to dust prematurely clogging their inadequate fan covers, causing overheating, obstructed airflow and extreme build up of dust on the LCD's within the optical block. Then they insult you by offering a 42 inch TV for a mere $1500 out of your pocket which isn't even a close match to these 70" panels.

As such, I just boycott "ANYTHING" from Sony now. I won't even buy a DVD that is a Sony release, no matter how much I like the title, let alone any of their other products. I have also told all my friends and family members not to buy Sony either. Also if I am in a store and notice customers looking at Sony products, I will go out of my way to discourage them from buying any of their products and point them toward other manufacturers. If time allows, I tell them my situation and make them aware of how Sony will take care of them if they have a problem with their purchase...

No more Sony loyalty from me, they just don't give a Rats Butt about their customer base... See Ya Sony, spread the word people!:(:(:mad:

mcd612

07-17-09, 11:20 AM

Thanks for the reply and info...I'll post an update after my conversation with Sony...if it goes the way yours went, I'll be doing the same (boycott)

DDraughn

07-19-09, 07:36 PM

Hello all, I'm new to the forum. I have the 70 inch Sony KDF-70XBR950 rear projection TV.

For the last 2 years I have been battling with the dreaded intermittent power up red flashing lights. I have called Sony several times and they kept referring me to a local Sony authorized repairman. They kept saying my lamp was going out and it was at my own expense to replace.

After surfing the net for hours I finally came across the Sony thread and immediately called Sony. They sent out a different repairman and he quickly found my issues. Melted lamp door, clogged fans, bottom housing melted etc. He relayed the info back to Sony and said I would hear from them in a few days. After a week with no response I called Sonys Customer relations. They offered to do a buy back. A terrible one at that. Here is what they offered:

KDL52V5100- retails from sonystyle.com $2300 my price $1350
KDL52XBR9 - Retails $3400 my price $1975
New KDL55XBR8 - retails $4999 my price $3800

Nevertheless I went thru the roof. I asked how it was fair for me to downgrade from a $6000+ 70" to a 55" for almost 4k. I was told they would refer my case to the next tier of Customer Relations but that they were not making any promises. I then stated that this is ridiculous and just to just fix my TV. I was then told if I wanted it repaired, it would have to be AT MY OWN EXPENSE! I guess I will wait to hear from the "next tier" and see what happens.

This is total BS!