Yesterday I played a DV via the firewire input to the 60" On the tape I had both "normal" and 16:9 content. The first time I played the tape, the TV was set to autowide. Every image displayed full screen. The Second time I set the output to "Normal". The 16:9 video filled the screen and the normal had the side bars. The TV automatically switched between the modes when the tape changed formats. I still haven't been able to get anything out of the firewire though. (e.g. from the HDTV tuner out to the video deck.)
Lee

bigbooty,

To determine your HD antenna needs check out www.antennaweb.org. For example, given my location and the nice clustering of broadcast antennas I find a standard VHF/UHF antenna works fine for me. A quick check on Chantilly, however, makes it look like you will need some kind of directional antanna with pre-amp to pull in the DC digital stations.

Good luck!

Just finished reading this thread from the beginning......Dang this is one long thread.......the wife asked if I was going to make a career of selecting our new TV....all I was doing was reading this thread.

Looks like the Sony KDF-70XBR950 - XBR Grand Wega 70-inch Widescreen Rear Projection LCD HDTV is the one for us. Now the problem looks like finding one in stock and negotiating a good price (the former may make the latter difficult).

Given the form rules, I understand that pricing is not allowed here (feel free to PM me with any information that you feel useful), I was wondering if there is anywhere on the Internet that one can go to learn what actual dealer cost is on various electronic equipment (like we do with new automobiles)? I have found this valuable information in the past when determining what to offer and sure would like to tap a source for electronics, as I am going to rebuild my component home theater system from the ground up (again) and will need to purchase many pieces, starting with the KDF-70XBR950 as my monitor.

Due to the GWIII issues identified by other members here such as poor geometry, dead pixels, color irregularities, convergence, & etc, I intend to put the KDF-70XBR950 under a microscope (so to speak) upon its arrival.

In reference to audio/video testing and set up, I have noted mention here of several DVD titles like: "AVIA Guide to Home Theater", "Digital Video Essentials", and "Sound & Vision Home Theater Tune-Up".

Is there a common consensus as to which one is best for calibrating the KDF-70XBR950 or do I need all three?

ps. I also see references to "VE", "Chesky Ultimate DVD", and "AV tool box by PMI", but not as often as AVIA and DVE.

Awhile back there was a request for a backup/AVR (automatic voltage regulator).

There is a reasonably priced one here with more info: http://www.circuitcity.com/display_review.jsp?c=1&b=g&OID=68781&catoid=-10121

Originally posted by HouseSold
Awhile back there was a request for a backup/AVR (automatic voltage regulator).


For years I have had my entire home theater powered through an APC Back-UPS Pro 1400VA (Part Number: BP1400).

In addition to surge protection and regulated power, the added benefit is that whenever we do have a power outage during a show or event, we don't miss anything since the unit provides power for a couple hours.

I also have APC back-ups on my wall clocks, cordless phones, fish aquarium, security system, and of course PC Network.

At less than $50.00 on eBay, I have more than a dozen around the house.

After last years' Northeast blackout, it sounds like a great idea.

Those of us with laptop computers have had battery backup for sometime. Why not an entire home, with what equipment costs and the frequency of seemingly frequent and barely detectable power surges?

Imagine the politics last century choosing AC over DC for the US.

Hopefully a simple question, Is there any difference between the 60we610 and 60xbr950 in terms of picture quality. I know that XBR has the HDTV tuner and the different screen, but how about the PQ?

I am going to buy one or the other, but don't know if I should spend the extra 2k.

Somebody please help!

Thanks

Lloyd

I thought so, and bought the 60XBR. Wonderful! Even the SD digital looks like HD.

Since I am on the wait list for a new XBR, can anyone comment on the picture quality of the 70 inch vs. the 60? Our local CC and Ultimate Electronics stores did not have the 70 on display, so I haven't personally seen one yet. I ordered the 70 inch on the assumption that the two pictures will be equal, or very nearly so, but I could certainly live with a 60 particularly if the smaller screen size provides a noticeably sharper picture. Has anyone compared the two, side by side?

Originally posted by JBaumgart
Since I am on the wait list for a new XBR, can anyone comment on the picture quality of the 70 inch vs. the 60? Our local CC and Ultimate Electronics stores did not have the 70 on display, so I haven't personally seen one yet. I ordered the 70 inch on the assumption that the two pictures will be equal, or very nearly so, but I could certainly live with a 60 particularly if the smaller screen size provides a noticeably sharper picture. Has anyone compared the two, side by side?

I saw the 60 and 70 inch XBR at the sony store. Although they were not side by side I can safely assert that the two provide equal picture quality. The 70 inch just happens to be bigger and may show more defects on a poor signal, however when viewing HD the image is amazing on both and to my eyes equally bright. If you have the space and the means I would go for the 70 inch version. I opted for the 60xbr950 due to size constraints. Money well spend and I like it way more than my pioneer 50 inch plasma.

I saw both of the 2 new GWIII XBR950's side by side at The Ultimate here in N. Austin back during the Holidays. Now as you know both have the same resolution, same projector engine, etc... so the 60 is naturally going to be sharper. Even knowing that I went with the 70 as I sit about 8-10' back from it. If it was more like 6-7' then I would've saved a few bucks and gone with the 60". I can always sit a little further away, but there's nothing I'd be able to do to make that 60" magically grow up if I hadn't got it to begin with. :cool:

I have chosen to purchase the 70-inch XBR, if for no other reason that I have yet to heard anyone state: "My picture is too big".

After 15 years viewing my 50 inch 4:3 Pioneer SD-P502 (1989 version of the Elite Pro) at 14 feet, I can say that there have been times I wished it was bigger. With 720 lines of horizontal resolution (state-of-the-art at that time), picture quality was never an issue at any reasonable viewing distance.

Then again, for the last 4 years I have sat 22" from my 21" Dell/Sony FD Trinitron Flat Screen PC Monitors (set at 1280x1024 resolution) and many times wished they were larger when viewing stock charts, trading screens, large images, and comparing documents.

Considering that it takes a 60-inch 16:9 display to equal the viewing height of a 50-inch 4:3, I personally consider the 60-inch XBR to be just an equivalent replacement and the 70-inch to be a size upgrade.

Corvette:

I did the same kind of math prior to my purchase.

You also need to consider that a 16:9 image on a 60" 16:9 set is about double the size it was on a 50" 4:3 set.

Although I went with the 60", there are time I wish I had gone with a 70". My thoughts are that I can pick up a front projector for the price difference between the non XBR 60" and the XBR 70" and project 100". Nice to have options.

I agree with you Jim, as to the double viewing area, but somehow in my simple mind I seem to feel that I need at least the same height or more to be satisfied.

I just had them install a High Def COmcast Cable Box on my 60 xbr 950.


My question is this:

How do I get the picture and Picture to work?

I mean when I press the pip I get both pictures next to each other. I cant seem to change the channel on the other and when I do it is snow white!

What gives>??

Thanks!

vankay

Here's how to hook it up:
Split the cable signal (use a high quality digital splitter) and run one feed into the cable box and the other feed into the coax connection labelled Cable in the back of the TV.

Use component cables to send the picture from the cable box to the TV via Video 5 or 6 (or Video 7 if the cable box has DVI out).

With Cable selected the TV should be able to tune in unscrambled cable channels (usually 1 thru 100). Now all you have to do is have your PIP set to swap between Video5 (or whatever you chose to hook up cable box to) and cable, you should be set. You should be able to change channels on Video 5 using the cable box and the channels on Cable using the TV romote. I hope this helps.

got my gw3 stand today and put it together..although i have no idea when the tv is coming. :( . anyways i figured to just get the stand that was made for the tv and boy does sony have brass ones charging 999.99 for this. i could see around 250-300 but cmon. :mad:

Aleki,

Thanks for the suggestion! I will try that.

vankay

Originally posted by nez0r
got my gw3 stand today and put it together..although i have no idea when the tv is coming. :( . anyways i figured to just get the stand that was made for the tv and boy does sony have brass ones charging 999.99 for this. i could see around 250-300 but cmon. :mad:

nexOr,

I also bought the stand which I have at home, still in the box, while I await the delivery of the TV. Not knowing exactly when the TV will be delivered, I've postponed moving my current system out, still want something to watch, other than an empty stand, while I wait. But since I will EVENTUALLY have to set the stand up, I'm just curious how it went - any problems or tips? Is it a two person job, i.e. will I need my wife to help? Last question: I know it's a heavy SOB but it is it otherwise pretty easy to position into place, without the TV on top? (I'll probably want to assemble it in the open and then move it next to the wall, where the delivery guys can then just set the TV on top). Thanks for any tips you can provide.

Also, thanks to those who commented on the 60 vs 70 inch picture quality. I'll probably stick with the 70, although if the 60 comes in first it will be hard to resist. My room is 17 x 24 feet so it's big enough I think to accomodate the 70. But the 60 would be a huge step up from my 36 inch 4x3 Mitsubishi. CC was good enough to place a "no money down" order to get me in the queue for that one as well as the 70, for which they charged my credit card about 2 1/2 weeks ago. Hopefully it will come in before I actually have to pay for it. Also sure hope Sony has really solved the bulb/start-up problem on the newer builds.

you will need another person when putting the top of it on since it is pretty heavy. overall though it was very simple it was up in about 15 mins with no problems. now all i need is the tv portion of this equation and i am set. >;]

I also have this stand. The box is so heavy I had to open it in the garage and carry the stand piece by piece into the house . You will need help moving the stand after it is built. I built it by myself. It was easy. Then my son and a friend placed the TV onto the stand with my guidance to lower it into the right place. The set locks into place and the front toe slides back. Together with the stand this is the best looking TV I have ever seen. People are very impressed with it. I have the 70" version and it is great. Defiantly not too big. Remember that if you watch a 4:3 picture it will only be about 55". We have 10 digital channels here, including the major networks, all of which come in from my attic antenna. I strongly recommend waiting for the 70" set. It will be worth it. Look it over good though, the first one I had had geometry problems. The second one was perfect. If you have Avia on DVD, run the test pattern section to see what you get. Zoom the picture so you can see the result. The first set was at least an inch wider at the bottom then at the top. The second one was about an eighth of an inch wider, and not noticeable at all without a test pattern, This set has the sharpest, clearest and brightest picture I have ever seen.

Again, be very careful when the set is lowered onto the stand so it doesn't get scratched. The people holding the set won't be able to see when to set it down. While they are holding it sit in the front middle of the stand and guide the base of the TV into the slot in the stand.

Originally posted by JBaumgart
still want something to watch, other than an empty stand, while I wait. What he said :D

Originally posted by tsnider
I've got a BDI Icon 9427 on order. Tried a Bush (from CC) that looked great but was a little too high (22"). The BDI is 18" high, which is about perfect for viewing from my sofa.

I was wondering if you had this stand in yet, and if you could post a picture with your XBR on it? I'm thinking of getting either a 9429 or 9427 to go with my forthcoming 60XBR950. Thanks,

Originally posted by Ben:Gb
I was wondering if you had this stand in yet, and if you could post a picture with your XBR on it? I'm thinking of getting either a 9429 or 9427 to go with my forthcoming 60XBR950. Thanks,

Got the stand in, I think it looks great with the TV (my wife, who has impeccable taste, agrees). The stand is exactly as wide as the TV, better than the Sony's stand (which is a little wide for the 60", in some people's opinion), and the color is a good match also. Correction on the height, more like 17", which is even better (closer to Sony's height of 15 3/4"). I like the lower heights, the TV doesn't look so much like a monument in the family room, plus it put my eyes right in the center of the set.

I'll have to work on the picture thing, I haven't posted pictures before, and my digital camera isn't set up yet to work on my Internet computer. In the meantime, if you haven't done so already, check it out on racksandstands.com, or here's another link, http://www.bigbangelectronics.com/product.asp?dept_id=5&pf_id=9427 (looks like it's a little cheaper). In this picture, the TV shown doesn't quite reach to the sides of the stand; the 60XBR950 matches perfectly (exactly flush).

Bottom line, I think I would go with Sony's stand if I had the 70" (but get it on a good discount somewhere), but for the 60" the BDI 9427 is a great bet, the best I could find.

Good luck,

tsnider

I finally started reading the documentation that came with my TV and was surprised to find an insert containing the GNU Public License. Apparently, this TV runs Linux!

http://products.sel.sony.com/linux/

Does anyone know what the TV uses Linux for? Is there a hard disk in there somewhere or does it read it from optical media or EPROM? I wonder if it's upgradeable (i.e. like firmware updates...).

The version of Linux inside the XBR seems to be what is called an "embedded Linux". It can run off a ROM (Read-Only Memory) and can use a RAM (Random-Access Memory) in lieu of any hard drive.

It MIGHT be that one could invoke a special mode, much like the Service Mode, and use the USB port(s) with a keyboard to diddle with the operating system.

What's it used for? The big plus of the XBR series is a "totally digital" signal pathway, from the RF signal right up to the LCD panels. Scan conversion, pixel adjustment, PIP, QAM tuning are just a few of the TV functions that could be controlled and/or implemented with a digital processor. There's a LOT of digital signal processing in HDTV and, once upon a time, there was a paper that said that general-purpose computers were now fast enough to replace digital signal processing chips.

I just got a call from CC that my TV is in transit from Sony and should be here by tomorrow or Friday. I've been waiting an entire month now and wasn't expecting to get it for another two or three weeks so you can imagine how this feels. Anyway I just thought I'd share this with y'all.

Looks like I'll be throwing that Super Bowl party after all.

i ordered mine about a month ago as well Dec. 19th. They told me it would be abuot 6 weeks for them to be back in stock which would be right around now. hopefully mine is coming too. :D

Has anybody been able to get the digital output to work? The manual says that the digital sound is only available on digital programs. I used the OTA antenna input and tried every channel that I get and nothing. I also checked the cable input with digital cable channels, same result, no sound. I tried turning both the speaker on and off in the Audio setup section. I checked the cable itself and input on the receiver by connecting to another source. Does the output only work on certain programs? Or could it be the broadcasting stations (I live in the Chicago area)? Or could my unit be defective? Or did I miss something?

Thanks,
Kevin

The optical out should work,but ONLY with OTA digital Broadcasts that the TV is actually tuned to. That means your OTA antenna has to be connected Directly to the TV. It will not work with an external tuner.
If your tuned to a "digital" channel using the TV's internal tuner then you should be getting a signal from the optical out.

Originally posted by Runch Machine
I also have this stand. The box is so heavy I had to open it in the garage and carry the stand piece by piece into the house . You will need help moving the stand after it is built. I built it by myself. It was easy. Then my son and a friend placed the TV onto the stand with my guidance to lower it into the right place. The set locks into place and the front toe slides back. Together with the stand this is the best looking TV I have ever seen. People are very impressed with it. I have the 70" version and it is great. Defiantly not too big. Remember that if you watch a 4:3 picture it will only be about 55". We have 10 digital channels here, including the major networks, all of which come in from my attic antenna. I strongly recommend waiting for the 70" set. It will be worth it. Look it over good though, the first one I had had geometry problems. The second one was perfect. If you have Avia on DVD, run the test pattern section to see what you get. Zoom the picture so you can see the result. The first set was at least an inch wider at the bottom then at the top. The second one was about an eighth of an inch wider, and not noticeable at all without a test pattern, This set has the sharpest, clearest and brightest picture I have ever seen.

Again, be very careful when the set is lowered onto the stand so it doesn't get scratched. The people holding the set won't be able to see when to set it down. While they are holding it sit in the front middle of the stand and guide the base of the TV into the slot in the stand.

Thank you very much - that was very helpful. Circuit City is delivering the actual TV but I'll now know how to "guide them" in case they send a couple of kids. Based on your comments I will also hold out for the 70 inch, and pick up the Avia disk to make sure my unit performs as it should. Sure hope it does because it would be painful to wait a month or more for a replacement.

Looks like I'm ordering the 70" on friday, was wondering if some current owners could answer a couple of questions for me?

(1) specs say tv height = 45.25 inches, stand height = 15.75 inches, which would make the unit topple in at 61 inches. However, the stand appears to have a sunk in space for the base of the tv and was wondering if someone could throw a tape measure on it and give me an exact height. I'm cutting it close with my center channel up there.

(2) the floor model of the stand I saw did not have a backing on it. Does the stand come with a backing so that you cannot see the back wall?

thanks for the 411...

Thanks for the info Tsnider, I was hoping for a real life shot of the BDI with an XBR on it.

Here are the stands (~22") I've seen that are big and can hold 3 stereo components and a big Def Tech Center channel.

BDI Icon 9429
AV Deco Posiedon 374
Plateau CR-2V 64"

Anybody seen anything else?

I am an AV newbie and I have a 60" XBR950 set which is UNREAL! I am trying to hookup my PC to it so that I can play BF1942 and other games. I have an ATI Radeon 9700 pro video card which has DVI output.

1) Can I plug my PC to the XBR via DVI, eventhough Sony does not recommend it? Will it truly damage the tv?

2) How can I send EXACT PC video output resolution to match the highest resolution that the XBR supports?


Any help will be greatly appreciated

I put an order through Circuit City here in Indianapolis for the 60" xbr950 about 3 weeks ago. I still have not received the set. Circuit City has no idea when the set will be available. I have attempted to get some info via several customer service departments at Sony by phone but they havn't a clue what is the hold up on the set (perhaps they know but don't want to say???). I have also sent them several emails as well but they go unanswered...

Anyway this has me extremely pissed and leads me to conclude that Sony sucks. I am this close to canceling my order and going with the 61" Samsung DLP instead.


Anybody have some detailed and recent info on how much longer Sony is going to ignore their customers...how much longer they are planning on keeping us waiting.

Anybody know???

Originally posted by RockysDad
Looks like I'm ordering the 70" on friday, was wondering if some current owners could answer a couple of questions for me?

(1) specs say tv height = 45.25 inches, stand height = 15.75 inches, which would make the unit topple in at 61 inches. However, the stand appears to have a sunk in space for the base of the tv and was wondering if someone could throw a tape measure on it and give me an exact height. I'm cutting it close with my center channel up there.

(2) the floor model of the stand I saw did not have a backing on it. Does the stand come with a backing so that you cannot see the back wall?

thanks for the 411...

No backing on the stand on the one I saw, it was open. I didn't measure the unit but my recollection is that the very top is right at eye level for me at least 61 inches which I'm sure is no help to you...but I doubt it is much shorter, if any, than the 61 inches you're looking at. You could always do away with the stand, save close to a thousand and set the unit on the floor. I wouldn't be crazy about having all the equipment that low, anyway, crawling around on the floor to make adjustments or change cabling.

20026speed,

Chill dude! It is common knowledge that the XBRs are in tight supply, and have been since their release. Some of us got on a list early and have the sets now, but only after at least two delays in the estimated availability date. This is very very common with Sony, BTW.

The 61" DLPs used to be in very short supply as well (maybe they still are?). If you like the XBR then wait it out. If you like the DLP just as much and can get one then do what makes the most sense to you.

CC called me today to say that they now have my TV and wanted to deliver it today if possible. I'm at work so I asked them to deliver it tomorrow. I will keep you guys updated. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this is one of the new and improved sets (not that there was anything wrong with previous copies) with the bulb issue resolved.

Anyway, during the one month wait I frequented many stores in Houston just to preview this set (over and over) and am sure it it's the one I want. If anyone's interested and in Houston, Tweeter on Westheimer has the 82' Lcos Mitsu, the 60XBR, 50' Philips Lcos and 50' DLP Samsung all lined up against the same wall making it easy to compare the sets. All I can say is as of Jan 2004 Lcos sucks. I'm sure they are wonderful sets once you take them home but the two Lcos sets looked dull and grey when placed side by side with the vibrant XBR and DLP sets. Size was not the issue since the Philips was 50' and the difference was big enough that no amount of tweaking could even things out.

Things are pretty close between the XBR and Samsung but I gave it to the XBR because the picture was as vibrant as that on the much smaller DLP set and when viewing from upclose (4ft) I feel more comfortable with pixels than with the creepy crawly insects thing the Samsung had going.

Originally posted by kdeleon
Has anybody been able to get the digital output to work? The manual says that the digital sound is only available on digital programs. I used the OTA antenna input and tried every channel that I get and nothing. I also checked the cable input with digital cable channels, same result, no sound. I tried turning both the speaker on and off in the Audio setup section. I checked the cable itself and input on the receiver by connecting to another source. Does the output only work on certain programs? Or could it be the broadcasting stations (I live in the Chicago area)? Or could my unit be defective? Or did I miss something?

Thanks,
Kevin

I use the optical out against my receiver, it works great. It works on every show. You have to make sure that you are viewing digitial OTA channels (we get like 8 in houston) or else the optical is useless.

Earlier I posted about my disatisfaction about on not receiving my set ....but about 10mns later I called CC to ask if it had arrived yet and to my surprise they said that it had ...so I hurried on over and picked it up...
I'm in the process of setting it up ...so far so good .....

If anyone has an order in they probably have your set in also ....

Originally posted by bigscreentv
I use the optical out against my receiver, it works great. It works on every show. You have to make sure that you are viewing digitial OTA channels (we get like 8 in houston) or else the optical is useless.

Thanks for the replies. I was able to finally get it working. It takes some working with my receiver to get it going. I still lose the sound when I change channels. I then have to change inputs and change back. This is interesting because my dvd changer never loses the connection even if I change discs. I bet it is partly my receiver, but I wonder if the tv is sending a weaker signal or something slightly inconsistent.

Bigscreentv: Do you ever lose the signal when you change channels?

I Just bought a Samsung DVD-HD931 DVD player with the DVI out to use with my KDF-70XBR950 (when it finally gets here).

I seem to remember reading in another post that a DVI-I cable will not connect to the KDF-70XBR950.

I also made a note about the DVI output on the Samsung DVD-HD931 DVD player being equipped with "high-bandwidth digital-content protection" (HDCP) and unless the KDF-70XBR950's DVI input also has HDCP, the DVD-HD931 cannot send a picture. Does the KDF-70XBR950's DVI input have HDCP? Is a special HDCP DVI cable required to make the connection?

If not, can anyone here tell me for certain whether or not I can use a DVI-I cable to connect to the KDF-70XBR950 or does it need to be a DVI-D cable?

I also understand that a single link cables will only support up to 1280 x 1024 resolution, whereas dual link cable supports up to 1920 x 1080 resolution. If this is true, will a dual link cable be required for 1080i?

And finally, does the Samsung DVD-HD931 DVD player come with a DVI cable in the box and if so, is it a DVI-D cable or DVI-I cable?

Originally posted by Corvette6769
I ...

I seem to remember reading in another post that a DVI-I cable will not connect to the KDF-70XBR950.

I also made a note about the DVI output on the Samsung DVD-HD931 DVD player being equipped with "high-bandwidth digital-content protection" (HDCP) and unless the KDF-70XBR950's DVI input also has HDCP, the DVD-HD931 cannot send a picture. Does the KDF-70XBR950's DVI input have HDCP? Is a special HDCP DVI cable required to make the connection?

If not, can anyone here tell me for certain whether or not I can use a DVI-I cable to connect to the KDF-70XBR950 or does it need to be a DVI-D cable?

I also understand that a single link cables will only support up to 1280 x 1024 resolution, whereas dual link cable supports up to 1920 x 1080 resolution. If this is true, will a dual link cable be required for 1080i?

...

From www.pccable.com:

DVI Connectors


A DVI connection can be one of three types - DVI-I, DVI-D or DVI-A.

DVI-I:
DVI-I contains both the digital and analog connections, (DVI-D + DVI-A) , it's essentially a combination of DVI-D and DVI-A cables within one cable. The I is for Integrated meaning a combination of both signals D and A.

DVI-D:
DVI-D (like DFP or P&D-D (EVC)) is a digital only connection. If both devices being connected support a Digital DVI connection (DVI-I or DVI-D compatible) and are compatible in resolutions, refresh rates and sync, using a DVI-D cable will ensure that you are using a digital connection rather than an analog connection, without playing around with settings to assure this.

DVI-A:
DVI-A is not often used on any cables but is in fact a DVI-I Cable with the other side have a HDDB15 Connector.

Dual Link: Dual T.D.M.S. (transition minimized differential signaling) "links". DVI can have up to two TMDS links. Each cable provideo two links each holding three data channels for RGB information with a maximum bandwidth of 165 MHz, which is equal to 165 million pixels per second. Dual-link connections provide bandwidth for resolutions up to 2048 x 1536p.

Single Link: Single T.D.M.S. link. Each link has three data channels for RGB information with a maximum bandwidth of 165 MHz, which is equal to 165 million pixels per second.
Bandwidth for a single-link connection supports resolutions of over 1920 x 1080 at 60 Hz (HDTV).

Originally posted by Corvette6769
...

I also made a note about the DVI output on the Samsung DVD-HD931 DVD player being equipped with "high-bandwidth digital-content protection" (HDCP) and unless the KDF-70XBR950's DVI input also has HDCP, the DVD-HD931 cannot send a picture. Does the KDF-70XBR950's DVI input have HDCP? Is a special HDCP DVI cable required to make the connection?

If not, can anyone here tell me for certain whether or not I can use a DVI-I cable to connect to the KDF-70XBR950 or does it need to be a DVI-D cable?

...

HDCP involves some Serious Karma! See:

http://www.digital-cp.com/

===

You will need the DVI-D cable. The DVI-I cable has an extra four pins providing the DVI-A analog capability, but the XBR has no openings for these pins. My Adelphia installer was trying to "pry off this little plastic cover" before I disabused him of that idea ...

Originally posted by roblake
HDCP involves some Serious Karma! See:

http://www.digital-cp.com/


Thank you roblake.

Does "high-bandwidth digital-content protection" (HDCP) have a negative effect on the KDF-70XBR950 ?

I contacted Sony and the tech told me that the KDF-70XBR950 is capable of receiving HDCP signals and that if the DVD player is compatible with EIA861 standard (what ever that is) and was told that you can connect your DVD player to the KDF-70XBR950 using a DVI-I cable (which is contrary to my understanding). The following is the transcript from my contact with Sony. I felt like a puppy chasing his tail and finally gave up after learning absolutely nothing and attempting to get streight answers to my questions....

Kate: Please go ahead with your query.
Steve: I just bought a DVD player with the DVI out to use with my KDF-70XBR950
Kate: No problem.
Steve: Please answer the questions I posted at: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3255155#post3255155 (I am corvette6769)
Kate: Steve, the KDF-70XBR950 is capable of receiving HDCP signals.
Steve: Good..so no compatibility problems there?
Kate: Absolutely not.
Steve: Will a DVI-I Cable connect to the KDF-70XBR950 or is a special HDCP DVI cable required to make the connection and/or does it need to be a DVI-D cable?
Kate: Steve, if your DVD player is compatible with EIA861 standard you can connect your DVD player to this television using a DVI-I cable.
Steve: Here is the link to the DVD player http://www.samsung.com/Products/DVDPlayer/Hypervision/DVDPlayer_Hypervision_DVD_HD931_sp.htm I do not see any mention of the EIA861 standard
Steve: Is a dual link cable be required for 1080i?
Kate: Steve, the cable should support 1080I.
Steve: So the single link cable will support 1080i even though it only goes up to up to 1280 x 1024 resolution?
Kate: Yes, you will need a cable which will support 1080I.
Steve: So I need a dual link cable for 1080i?
Kate: Yes, it should also support EIA861 standards and HDCP.
Steve: Ok thank you, you have answered all my questions....I think
Kate: Is there anything else I can help you with today?
Steve: No thank you
Steve: Good Bye!
Steve: disconnected
Kate: disconnected
:confused:

Originally posted by roblake
You will need the DVI-D cable. The DVI-I cable has an extra four pins providing the DVI-A analog capability, but the XBR has no openings for these pins. My Adelphia installer was trying to "pry off this little plastic cover" before I disabused him of that idea ...

The attached picture I ran across in eBay shows the various DVI Cable Connector Configurations.

Originally posted by Corvette6769
I also made a note about the DVI output on the Samsung DVD-HD931 DVD player being equipped with "high-bandwidth digital-content protection" (HDCP) and unless the KDF-70XBR950's DVI input also has HDCP, the DVD-HD931 cannot send a picture. Does the KDF-70XBR950's DVI input have HDCP? Is a special HDCP DVI cable required to make the connection?

I don't have the Samsung, although I'm thinking about it--actually, I'm hoping that Sony will release a DVI-enabled DVD player, since I'm partial to their stuff. In any case, my Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8000HD cable box has a HDCP-enabled DVI output and it works fine with the XBR.

I did see reports from folks with slightly older TVs that also claim to be HDCP-compliant, but these folks lose the DVI connection every time they change channels on the cable box. Turning the box on and off, or unplugging and replugging the DVI cable re-establishes the connection. So the good news is that the Sony apparently does HDCP correctly.

I'm using a DVI cable that came with a Dell 1900FP flat panel LCD monitor: since my computer only has an analog output on the video card, this cable was previously unused. I believe it's DVI-D and it works just fine between the SA cable box and the TV.

Originally posted by Corvette6769
Thank you roblake.

Does "high-bandwidth digital-content protection" (HDCP) have a negative effect on the KDF-70XBR950 ?

roblake: There is a level of encryption/decryption added with HDCP. This is all digital and should not affect the video signal te way that another level of analog-to-digital conversion would.

I contacted Sony and the tech told me that the KDF-70XBR950 is capable of receiving HDCP signals and that if the DVD player is compatible with EIA861 standard (what ever that is) and was told that you can connect your DVD player to the KDF-70XBR950 using a DVI-I cable (which is contrary to my understanding). The following is the transcript from my contact with Sony. I felt like a puppy chasing his tail and finally gave up after learning absolutely nothing and attempting to get streight answers to my questions....

roblake: Tell Kate that she's wrong! I HAVE a DVI-I cable (from trying to tie my PC and Mac to the same LCD monitor) and it simply won't fit. The DVI female connector on the back of the XBR is DVI-D. If you look at the picture posted in the posting between yours and mine, you will note 4 small pins above and below the flat blade pin on the left hand side. I suppose you could break off those 4 pins and just lose the audio pathway.

I understand the front of the KDF-70XBR950 screen is acrylic. What is the best method for cleaning it (e.g., dust, fingerprints)? (I have two soon-to-be six year olds.) How often do you clean it? Can the acrylic be scratched easily? Thanks.

I just use the cloth that came with the TV to remove any figerprints from the tv. How far are people sitting away from the TV? I'm about 9 feet from the TV and sometimes when I watch HDTV it seems like I can see the pixels, I'm afraid that I should of gotten the 60" as I can't move the couch or the tv any further apart from each other.

Hey guys, I just got my 60XBR950 this past Wednesday. Its amazing and I love it. This is my first ever rear projection unit. I first saw it Cambridge Soundworks. I was in awe! :) I have a Sony 32HS500, so going from that to the 950 was unreal. I have it hooked up to the SATHD300 via DVI and I'm getting the locals OTA.
Next month I'm having my basement finished and the unit will live down there. I can't wait. Right now it's in my living room and the room is quite bright. Thank goodness the SuperBowl is on at 6pm! :) GO PATS!

Originally posted by dailowai
I just use the cloth that came with the TV to remove any figerprints from the tv. How far are people sitting away from the TV? I'm about 9 feet from the TV and sometimes when I watch HDTV it seems like I can see the pixels, I'm afraid that I should of gotten the 60" as I can't move the couch or the tv any further apart from each other.

I'm 11 feet away sitting up and 13 feet reclining and can't see the pixels either way (and I'm sensitive to that). At 9 feet (sitting on the floor), I sometimes can but it's not bothersome.

Well I was going to get the 70" at 11ft but I have some recliners at much less dist. So I decided on the 60"

Good news (Almost), got a call from my local CC yesterday, I'm on the list for the XBR60. The call came at 11:00 and they said they have one that was for someone else, but they backed out. I did not get the message until 4:00 so I called and the guy I deal with was out on a delivery, but I had them forward me to the warehouse and I had one of the guys look at the S/N it was 9117914. So it looks like it was not in the problem child area.

Now the missery, called back to get the guy I deal with, 1 hour later, and it just sold!!!!! I asked how many did they get and he couldn't say, but just one or two. So they must be shipping and receiving!! Damm I wanted it before the SB next Sunday. Maybe this week??

I understand that the KDF-70XBR950 is scheduled for a price drop right after February 1, 2004.

Is that timing typical for these?

Is it related to the Super Bowl or timed to coincide with hype subsiding from the Consumer Electronics Show?

Can anyone confirm this ?

I haven't heard anything about a 70xbr price drop. It wouldn't make sense to drop the price on a fairly new product that you already can't keep up with demand.

I keep reading about "new" vs "old" XBR serial numbers, as well as a few mentions of newer serial numbers. Can someone please elaborate on this and what is going on?
Also, there were discussions as to whether the XBR would or would not do better w/ a progressive scan DVD player die to its own internal circuitry. I have an older, non progressive scan player which to my eyes looks fine. Should I upgrade and give the old ones to the kids?

the Samsung DVD-HD931 does not play well with the Sony because it uses DVI-PC color mode (0-255) and the Sony uses DVI-Video (16-235) mode. This causes trouble with blacks.

Samsung has a new DVD coming out this year where the video will be settable.

My KDF-70XBR950 is to be delivered tomorrow.

My question is... How deep are the TV and stand combined. I have the Sony stand, and have already assembled it. The TV by itself if 25 1/2 inches deep, and it recommends in the manual that it sit at least 4 inches from the wall.

I want to place the TV as close to the wall as possible. I'm trying to figure out where to place the stand so that when the TV arrives tomorrow, the delivery crew can just set it on the stand, and the back of the TV will be "4 inches" from the wall.

The figure that would be the most useful to me would be the depth from the front of the stand (excluding the foot-base) to the farthest aft point on the TV itself. Or alternately, the distance from the wall to the back of the stand, that results in the farthest aft point on the TV being "4 inches from the wall".

Thanks

Interesting topics posted lately:

The TV by itself if 25 1/2 inches deep, and it recommends in the manual that it sit at least 4 inches from the wall.

I saw that in the manual this weekend. My 70" has been right up against the wall without problems. I figured that was OK because they recessed the wiring connection panel underneath--why bother doing that if the TV can't be right up against the wall? Anyone know?

the Samsung DVD-HD931 does not play well with the Sony because it uses DVI-PC color mode (0-255) and the Sony uses DVI-Video (16-235) mode. This cuases trouble with blacks.

Great info about the Samsung DVD player. I was thinking about it but now I'll wait.

I keep reading about "new" vs "old" XBR serial numbers, as well as a few mentions of newer serial numbers. Can someone please elaborate on this and what is going on?

From reading this forum, there were some problems with sets not turning back on. I'm guessing the serial numbers identify pre-fixed sets. My set has been fine, although I did notice that it takes something like 30 seconds to cycle if it's turned off and then back on again right away (that is, I accidentally hit the Power button on the remote). The first time this happened I thought maybe I was running into the problem but it turned out that I didn't wait long enough. Still, a list of serial number would be reassuring.

I previously asked about after-market extended warranties, say from Philips PriorityService. I've done some web searching, and it appears that the warranty is available only from the dealer who sold the set and they want way too much ($795). Has anyone been able to find a decent after-market warranty?

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
the Samsung DVD-HD931 does not play well with the Sony because it uses DVI-PC color mode (0-255) and the Sony uses DVI-Video (16-235) mode. This cuases trouble with blacks.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I thought about this unit too but I'm using the DVI from the SATHD300 and the XBR950 only has one DVI input.

I have the KDF-60XBR950 and my wife experienced the turnon problem twice. Both times, unplugging the set fixed it. I suspect some CPU is getting corrupted, possibly by a power glitch. I added a UPS a week ago and I haven't had the problem since (not that long yet). I'll report status over time...joe

i thought i would just tell everyone that my credit card had a charge for the 60xbr950. so i hope it comes before the super bowl. i ordered mine on dec 19th so hopefully people will start seeing theirs. :D

Has anyone who ordered from CC received their XBR950 lately? I placed my order on January 2nd, and the only thing they can tell me is that it won't be until at least next week - no new shipments are expected in from Sony this week. Also, does anyone know if the wait longer for the 60 or the 70?

Any one looking for an extended warranty for their XBR 950- Check out warrantybynet.com. They have a 4 year plan for 560.00 normal price but are running a Superbowl special for 15% off that price which brings it down to 476.00 (much better price than the 750.00 quote that GoodGuys quoted me when I bought my 60xbr). warrantybynet.com is also in good standing with the Better Business Bureau for customer satisfaction.
On another note I'm running the Bravo D-1 dvd player with the DVI connection. The picture quality is absolutely awesome through the 720p and1080i setting on the D-1. Does anybody know what the native scanning rate is of the KDF60XBR950?

Any one looking for an extended warranty for their XBR 950- Check out warrantybynet.com. They have a 4 year plan for 560.00 normal price but are running a Superbowl special for 15% off that price which brings it down to 476.00 (much better price than the 750.00 quote that GoodGuys quoted me when I bought my 60xbr). warrantybynet.com is also in good standing with the Better Business Bureau for customer satisfaction.
On another note I'm running the Bravo D-1 dvd player with the DVI connection. The picture quality is absolutely awesome through the 720p and1080i setting on the D-1. Does anybody know what the native scanning rate is of the KDF60XBR950?

Thanks for the pointer to the extended warranty.

Originally posted by mnypit001
Does anybody know what the native scanning rate is of the KDF60XBR950?

If you're asking what I think you're asking, it's 720p.

My understanding is there is no "native mode". The imager is 1386 x 788 pixels. To be 720p native, the 788 would have to be 720. I assume that 720p would look best since it's closest to the native size...joe

Your right 720p has 0 artifacts. I noticed a slight flicker in the 1080i setting.
The Bravo D-2 is coming out in Feb. Has a better loader, remote, and you can adjust brightness and contrast from the player. Guess I'll be sending my D-1 back soon. For 50.00 bucks more your getting some decent uprades. To bad it only comes in the silver finish.

mnypit001,

Is the slight flicker you see only when the source is the D1? Also is it across the entire image or just a particular portion? I ask since I have experienced a fair amount of shimmer / flicker from multiple sources in high contrast scenes. Certain parts of the image will jitter (white lettering against dark background, trees with sky in view, windows on a building that's well lit, etc.). Otherwise the PQ is excellent. I'm trying to determine if this is normal for the set or if I have an issue.

Does anyone experience stuck pixel w/ the 2004 mfg date? Any user with stuck pixels ? Are stuck pixel more or less onthe GIII or on the XBR?

Any complaints on the light buld?- buzzing noise?

Thanks.

RM

i spoke to someone at the sony family store and he said that a huge shipment just went out of these tv's and if you dont get your tv in the next couple of weeks it may be another 3 weeks before they ship anymore out. :(

what is the sony family store?

its like a factory store. people who program and do marketing for sony up in park ridge, nj have a store where they can buy all sorts of sony products.

I am looking to get an xbr950. When I went to look at it, they also had the WE610 next to it. With the same default settings, the 610 pic looked brighter and a tad richer than the xbr. Anyone know why this would be? Could the reflective screen on the xbr be part of the culprit?

I think the WE610 has a higher gain screen which gives a brighter picture, but has a narrower field of view. Also, the same settings on each set don't deliver the same result, even WE610 to WE610, that's why calibration makes a difference...joe

Just called my local CC (Rochester NY) again and they all of a sudden had a 60XBR950 in the other store across town (looks like a good S/N. I missed out on one Last Sat. (I'm on the list) but I got this one today and it's being delivered Friday. They did not show one available after I missed out on one Sat. Can you say Super Super Bowl!! So they are out there! Slow but sure.

By the way, did I see some where that they do ship a DVI cable with the unit? or do I have to go get one?

Originally posted by Teach2332
By the way, did I see some where that they do ship a DVI cable with the unit? or do I have to go get one?

It's not included with the TV. I used a DVI cable that came with a LCD panel for my P.C.

Verified Linux in the sony RPTVs...joe
http://products.sel.sony.com/linux/source.htm#60xbr950

Where is the list of serial numbers to know which is a "Good" number and which are not?...joe

I have been enjoying my new 60" xbr950 for about 4 days now. Outstanding picture, however I have just noticed some stuck pixels.

I am wondring how many stuck pixels is normal or how many would be considered too much. I have counted 11 stuck pixels on mine. There are 2 red, 7 green, and 2 blue. Again, for a total of 11. How many of you out there would return this set for another??

After spending close to $6,000 I want to rest assured that I don't have a defective or borderline defective set. One of the reasons I spent top dollar at Circuit City for this set is that they have a good return/exchange policy. So again I ask do have a marginal or defective set and get another?

Thanks all
Matt

20026speed, I don't know what the CC return policy is, but when I got my 60XBR800 my dealer said pixels >2" from the outside edge were what they looked at for warranty issues on dead pixels. I had my XBR800 for 14 months with zero dead pixels, I'd be really pissed with 11 in 4 days...... Good luck

Originally posted by Joe Jensen
Verified Linux in the sony RPTVs...joe
http://products.sel.sony.com/linux/source.htm#60xbr950

From browsing thru the downloaded source code, it APPEARS that the Sony XBR is running on a MIPS processor. Not surprising, given that some of the video game boxes use MIPS chips --- including the Sony PlayStation 2. Now, IF we only had an adapter to play the PS/2 games!

BengGB thanks for replying ....my 11 stuck pixels are greater than 2" from any edge. They are strewn troughout the entire screen.
By the way, CC's return policy is that if within 30 days of taking delivery of an item you are disatisfied with anything about the set they will refund your money, replace, or exchange for another model. I want this XBR950 but I don't know about living with a set with this many stuck pixels. Anyone else with an opinion on this?

Thanks all
Matt

Originally posted by 20026speed
BengGB thanks for replying ....my 11 stuck pixels are greater than 2" from any edge. They strewn troughout the entire screen.
By the way CC return policy is that if within 30 days of taking delivery of item you are disatisfied with anything about the set they will refund your money, replace, or exchange for another model. I want this XBR950 but I don't know about living with a set withthis many stuck pixels. Anyone else with an opinion on this?

Thanks all
Matt

Do you see these from the normal viewing distance or did you have to get up close to check it out? Despite careful watching, I haven't noticed any stuck pixels, but I haven't gone looking for them either. If they bother you from where you normally sit, I'd replace the set. If they don't, it's a tougher question but it still sounds like a lot of stuck pixels. The manual clearly says several times that these are "normal".

BTW, I wonder what the LCD panels in the set cost to replace? I wonder if it's more cost-effective for Circuit City to replace the panels than to replace the entire set, or is that just too difficult? One of my concerns with this set was the Texas Instruments study that claims that the organic polymers in transmissive LCDs degrade over time and cause wholesale color shifts or dimming. I figure even if that's the case (which I hope is not true or has been overcome), I could have the LCD "engine" replaced after 5 years -- or maybe even under the extended warranty.

Can anyone comment on this issue, or the difficulty of replacing and aligning the LCDs? Has anyone looked inside this beast?

Originally posted by Joe Jensen
Where is the list of serial numbers to know which is a "Good" number and which are not?...joe

I have been wondering this too for the KDF-70XBR950.

Anyone know for sure what the last production date and/or serial number was before Sony had all the issues corrected?

Are the Sony serial numbers always in a ascending sequential order?

Is the build date on the outside of the carton?

Is the build date spelled out or is it an alpha-numeric date code?

Got my 70XBR950 yesterday.... WOW!!!!!

The serial number is on the outside of the carton. As far as I know the build date is only on the back of the set, and it is spelled out. Mine is an October 2003 build. So far 10 green flashes, and on every time. Two almost imperceptible clicks when I push the power button. No pops or buzzes.

From what I read on the GWIII Buzz forum, the problem is appearing on some January 2004 builds, and there is ONE new post of a similar problem even with the new OSRAM bulb, although it was combined with a soldered circuit board fix.

I do have the 70" with a build date of Oct 2003. We had the problem of not able to tun the TV on, the green light just flashes(happened 5-6 times). Called in service and they replaced the bulb and added a capacitor and resistor. Even in spite of that changes the problem didn't go away. IT is still happening......
The short time solution is unplug the power cord from the wall wait for 20 sec's and plug it back and it works.




Originally posted by KC-Technerd
Got my 70XBR950 yesterday.... WOW!!!!!

The serial number is on the outside of the carton. As far as I know the build date is only on the back of the set, and it is spelled out. Mine is an October 2003 build. So far 10 green flashes, and on every time. Two almost imperceptible clicks when I push the power button. No pops or buzzes.

From what I read on the GWIII Buzz forum, the problem is appearing on some January 2004 builds, and there is ONE new post of a similar problem even with the new OSRAM bulb, although it was combined with a soldered circuit board fix.

I added a UPS in an attempt to stop the turnon issue (happened twice to my wife) around 1/20. The problem hasn't reoccured yet...joe

I've been running a UPS since day 1 -- CostCo has 1100kv TripLite brand UPSs with user-replaceable backup batteries for $99. Highly recommended--the only downside is a soft hum emitted by the UPS (which is pretty big), and putting it on some padding in my cabinet eliminated that.

A question about whether I should connect my DVD player's progressive scan output to the 70" XBR or whether the 480i component output would be better.

I have a Phillips DVDR985 DVD+RW recorder/player and it has both component outputs and a progressive scan output. I've been running it off the progressive scan output and DVDs look terrific. I also have the S-Video output connected to another input on the TV and it's definitely not as good--mostly darker and much less detailed.

Apparently, the TV doesn't offer the "pulldown" feature for a progressive scan input. Is that because it's unnecessary -- that is, does a DVD player with progressive scan output already do this by definition (it's not a feature listed by my DVD player/recorder)? Is it worth trying to switch to the 480i component outputs to see if the TV might do a better job than the player?

The only reason I haven't tried it is that it's a pain to switch DVD player outputs in the cabinet, but I'll try it if nobody else has.

just got my 60xbr950 today. build date is january 2004 on the back of the tv. i can say that i am very happy with the performance of this tv with high def but i am not as thrilled with the performance of sd. on certain channels it looks good but on others like fox sports ny the picture was just horrible. cant wait to see the super bowl tomorrow and get a taste of what HD is supposed to look like ;).

Watching the Superbowl on my KDF-70XBR950 was breathtaking. Its the first sporting event I've watched on the TV or on any HDTV. Being able to see the entire spectrum of colors and seeing all the details of that GIANT stadium in Houston was fascinating. Thats not mentioning it was a great game too. The Dolby 5.1 sound was great too. I could hear the stadium announcer's voice emenating from above, and the cheerleaders off to the right.

I received my 70XBR950 on January 5th and today is February 2nd. It's a Nov. 2003 build. It worked spectacularly for 7 days and then the picture started looking like a moving 'paint by numbers' show. The problem occurred regardless of the imput (DVD; local OTA analog, digital, or HD; C band analog, digital, or HD. Sony had me unplug it, first for a few minutes and then overnight to see if the problem corrected itself. It didn't.

It has now been in the local repair shop for 3 weeks. A '$1700' part was replace last week that Sony overnighted. No idea what it was -- besides expensive. That didn't totally fix the problem so they overnighted another part that was received and installed Friday. The set was allowed to run over the weekend to see how it looked Monday. Well, it's 'fixed' and should be delivered tomorrow. I hope it is right. I'm thinking, after hearing about $1700 parts that an extended warantee might be a good idea.

I learned that it probably isn't good to buy a set out of town to save time and money as returning it is not possible. The credit card bill is due in 8 days and if the set is not properly fixed by then, I will explore not paying the cost of the set. I wish I'd used my Chase card that has some sort of warrantee for such problems.

Any comments, thoughts, or advice?

For all you lucky dogs out there that have been taking delivery of your xbr's, how long did you have to wait from your original order till delivery? I've been waiting for over a month now!

Thanks

Bought the 70" at an A/V dealer on Saturday, Jan 3, delivered Sunday, January 4. I did have to wait until late afternoon, though. :-(

Fry's also had them in stock back then and had the 70" marked down $700 below list -- I could see boxes of both the 70" and 60" stacked next to the 60" on display.

Seriously, it seems to ebb and flow. I think most places have been out of stock for the last 3 weeks, maybe due to the Super Bowl.

Originally posted by beemer58
For all you lucky dogs out there that have been taking delivery of your xbr's, how long did you have to wait from your original order till delivery? I've been waiting for over a month now!

Thanks

Got my 70xbr950 at a local AV shop for a grand off retail. They had just this one set in stock. I had to wait 10 days for the delivery because the truck was booked. Paid for the set on 1/17 and it was delivered and setup by the tech on 1/27.

Had a huge SB party, and now have several jealous friends who didn't realize they wanted a new TV until they saw mine...

HDTV rocks! :D

Originally posted by beemer58
For all you lucky dogs out there that have been taking delivery of your xbr's, how long did you have to wait from your original order till delivery? I've been waiting for over a month now!

Thanks

I've also been waiting, in my case exactly one month for an XBR70. According to CC I am next in line, and their next delivery is expected next week. Hopefully then the waiting will be over.

You guys realize that people buy TVs just for their Superbowl party, then return them the following week.

Expect to see some open box specials.

i am looking at the 70 inch xbr i will be sitting 13 feet frome the screen will this set work ok for me

Originally posted by barney dog
i am looking at the 70 inch xbr i will be sitting 13 feet frome the screen will this set work ok for me

Works for me. We sit 11 feet from the screen sitting up, 13 feet reclining. I've experimented and 9 feet is about as close as I'd want to get.

Originally posted by barney dog
i am looking at the 70 inch xbr i will be sitting 13 feet frome the screen will this set work ok for me

We sit 13ft 8in from our new 70xbr950 and it is just right. I wouldn't recommend anything under 10ft. We have had it for a week.

This is a fantastic TV, and the superbowl looked incredible. You just can't describe how good it was to someone who has not seen it.

Check out my pics at

http://home.mchsi.com/~countz/pics2.htm

So what happened to your old TV? A friend of mine had the same old model
that you have and it looks great.

When did you get your XBR?

RM

To all of you, a hearfelt thank you. After reading all the posts thru this and other threads, I pulled the trigger yesterday on a 60XBR950. I went and saw it at my local CC and it happened to be on sale. Called the wife and had her come look at it and she fell in love with it too. I'll be pairing this up with the Hughed HDTivo (via the HDMI-DVI cable most likely) when they become available.

Now I just have to wait 3 weeks as all the XBR's are backordered. The agony....

swatter,

My wife and I have a 60xbr on "backorder" at CC since December 28th. We were told 2-4 weeks. As of yesterday they still can't give us any idea when it may come in. I found one at a place in NJ, in stock, and the whole deal including shipping and a 4 yr. extended in home warranty came out to over a grand less than CC. Should have confirmation on del. date today and then I will cancel the CC order.

The other frustrating thing about CC, is according to the local mgr. CC does NOT do interstore transferring. For example, our two local CC's don't have any xbr's in stock with 3 on paid back order. If there were 3 xbr's in a store just an hour away, in stock, CC WOULD NOT transfer those tv's to the local stores to fill those orders. They would let those 3 tv's sit in stock in a store an hour away and make the 3 paid customers sit on backorder.

Originally posted by rmai
So what happened to your old TV? A friend of mine had the same old model
that you have and it looks great.

When did you get your XBR?

RM

Got the XBR on 1/27. The superbowl in HD bordered on a religious experience. (Though I missed Janet, big deal).

An aquaintance bought the kp65, and he's going to buy my LG-3510a since I don't need a HD tuner any more.

While I am waiting for my XBR, which is supposed to be delivered next week, I just thought i would ask current owners about their experiences so far in terms of reliability. I've perused the GWIII discussion topics, including the endless "Buzz" postings, and because the sets share many common features and components this has me a bit concerned...yet on the other hand I haven't seen nearly as many such complaints in this thread (I realize that due to its higher cost there are not nearly as many XBR950 sets being sold as GWIII's, so this surely has a bearing on this).

Anyway, how much of a problem are the "bulbs, buzzing and flashing red lights" on the XBR's sold to date, and if there has been a fairly widespread problem is there any reason to expect that the newer builds will be more reliable? I guess I am just looking for some assurances before I close on the deal and the set is delivered.

Thanks - Joel

I have the 60XBR950 two weeks today. No buzzing, no red lights flashing. Knock wood its been flawless. Lamp/bulb I read last approx. 2000hrs. Bought it from Crutchfield.com and I have 30 day unconditional return. :) The box it comes in is huge, as you might expect. ;) I sure would hate to have to go through the trouble to have to send it back. PLEASE keep working well. haha!

60XBR950 OCT Build, I've had it 2 months with zero problems

I've been trying to convince myself to go the distance and put down the money for the KDF60XBR950, but all these problems scare the hell out of me. I then looked to KDE-50XBR950 and LC37HV6U and now DLP. The choices are endless.

I've owned Sony before and like the product/company. Our sets will always be in 'brighter' rooms and have no plan to build a media room, but build media into a space (if you follow).

So if I could bother the thread to quickly help me sort through the dilemma of which type/model to look at:

KDF60XBR950 - picture looked great and the space isn't an issue. My only concern is the viewing angle of all projection TV's and tech problems with this particular set.

KDE-50XBR950: more money and less screen. Is the picture better than LCD RP?

LC37HV6U: Same with the Plasma, more money and less screen. LCD over Plasma?

DLP RP: If I read the forums correctly people are favoring DLP over LCD in RP sets.

So damn confusing and sorry I can't hash all the information that is on this board together in time to make my purchase. Hope you can help.

Van G

PS: My apologies, I posted this on GWIII Thread. Damn Newbie!

Can the "footer" on the base be removed? I am building a custom cabinet, and the footer prevents the set from sitting flush with the surrounding cabinetry.

The guy at CC said off the record that it could be. Any insight?

Quick Q regarding getting HD signals without secondary box on 60" XBR 950? Which signals can these sets decode?

Any Canucks with ExpressVu able to get HD without the HD receiver?
What about Dish, Direct TV, or Cable?

Van G

Folks,

I am trying to gather your experience with the XBRs. I have just put in an order for a 60'' XBR and am wondering how has your experience been with the TV? Any buyer's remorse?

- Whether you should have bought this TV ?
- Whether this TV is not better than DLP?
- Any other comments/suggestions/thoughts?
- IF, switched from XBR to DLP or DLP to XBR/GIII, I'd like to know why
- Did you end up using built-in OTA tuner?

Both good and bad comments are very welcome since I like to make an informed decision. This is a BIG decision for me and I want to make the right one.

I would really appreciate a reponse.

Originally posted by mallu2u
Folks,

I am trying to gather your experience with the XBRs. I have just put in an order for a 60'' XBR and am wondering how has your experience been with the TV? Any buyer's remorse?

- Whether you should have bought this TV ?

===> Absolutely! New focus for family gathering; superb picture quality.

- Whether this TV is not better than DLP?
- Any other comments/suggestions/thoughts?
- IF, switched from XBR to DLP or DLP to XBR/GIII, I'd like to know why
- Did you end up using built-in OTA tuner?

===> I use the built-in tuner as well as the cable box because I can get OTA for channels not carried on cable AND if I feed the raw cable into the XBR, there are some "free" VOD things I can watch, but not control, on occasion.

Both good and bad comments are very welcome since I like to make an informed decision. This is a BIG decision for me and I want to make the right one.

I would really appreciate a reponse.

- Whether you should have bought this TV ?
I'm thrilled with mine. Bought it early in December. I would not by any other set on the market today.
- Whether this TV is not better than DLP?
I see the rainbows so unless I could buy a 3 panel DLP, DLP is out for me.
- Any other comments/suggestions/thoughts?
My set failed to turn on twice, green light just kept flashing. Un plugging the TV reset it. I read somewhere a theory that power spikes were causing some CPU to lock up, that's why unplugging worked. Seemed to make sense, so I put a UPS on my TV. I did this about three weeks ago and the problem hasn't returned. I bought an extended warranty so I'm not too worried about this.
- IF, switched from XBR to DLP or DLP to XBR/GIII, I'd like to know why
I did not
- Did you end up using built-in OTA tuner?
yes, I'm using it until my HD DirectTivo arrives in March or April.

joe

Any buyer's remorse?

Absolutely none..

Originally posted by JBaumgart
Anyway, how much of a problem are the "bulbs, buzzing and flashing red lights" on the XBR's sold to date, and if there has been a fairly widespread problem is there any reason to expect that the newer builds will be more reliable? I guess I am just looking for some assurances before I close on the deal and the set is delivered.

Thanks - Joel

I've had the 60XBR950 since early December, and there has been no problems whatsoever. I've never heard any buzzing from the bulb, although it's been reported that that's from the bulb loosening during transit, and a simple re-seating of the bulb has been said to solve that, and the flashing of the power light is simply a visual of the set warming up, there's a lot of circuits to warm when starting up. The only time mine will flash more than 6 times, is if I power off, and then on again without waiting a few seconds for all circuits to reset. I used UMR's tweaks, http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=331875, and my set is looking so good, It would be a waste of money to get ISF calibrating IMHO. So, there is no remorse, only ecstatic bliss that I went with this set.

Hot Damn. I'm in.
How big is the box? Hope I don't have any problems getting it in the elevator!

Van G

RedWyvern, my 60" flashes 10 times every time. Interesting difference..joe

RedWyvern, my 60" flashes 10 times every time. Interesting difference..joe

I agree, Mine is also 10 everytime. I personally have yet to see an XBR fire up any quicker than 10.

Originally posted by mallu2u
Folks,

I am trying to gather your experience with the XBRs. I have just put in an order for a 60'' XBR and am wondering how has your experience been with the TV? Any buyer's remorse?

- Whether you should have bought this TV ?
- Whether this TV is not better than DLP?
- Any other comments/suggestions/thoughts?
- IF, switched from XBR to DLP or DLP to XBR/GIII, I'd like to know why
- Did you end up using built-in OTA tuner?

Both good and bad comments are very welcome since I like to make an informed decision. This is a BIG decision for me and I want to make the right one.

I would really appreciate a reponse.

From someone who usually has at least some second thoughts on every purchase, I've had virtually none on the 60XBR950--it is incredible. The only small improvement I would ask for would be is regarding what I think is called FPN (Fixed Pattern Noise), the shimmery, grainy texture I see sometimes with whites and light backgrounds (less w/ HD), but it was going to take 3 times the cash to improve upon this with a Sony plasma. Nobody else who watches the set notices it, and once I stop scanning the picture for flaws and just watch the show, I don't notice it either. Other than that, I've never looked back. I saw the Samsung DLP and didn't like it nearly as much as the XBR. In fact, I'm not sure there's anything out there much under $20k that I'd want over the XBR. DVD looks great, and HD is unbelievable.

I've had zero technical problems so far (got it end of December).

I'm using the cable HD box--ease of use is well-worth the $5/mo.

Good luck in your decision,

tsnider

My XBR flashes 10 times also...has worked perfectly from day 1.

Originally posted by tsnider
From someone who usually has at least some second thoughts on every purchase, I've had virtually none on the 60XBR950--it is incredible. The only small improvement I would ask for would be is regarding what I think is called FPN (Fixed Pattern Noise), the shimmery, grainy texture I see sometimes with whites and light backgrounds (less w/ HD), but it was going to take 3 times the cash to improve upon this with a Sony plasma. Nobody else who watches the set notices it, and once I stop scanning the picture for flaws and just watch the show, I don't notice it either. Other than that, I've never looked back. I saw the Samsung DLP and didn't like it nearly as much as the XBR. In fact, I'm not sure there's anything out there much under $20k that I'd want over the XBR. DVD looks great, and HD is unbelievable.

I've had zero technical problems so far (got it end of December).

I'm using the cable HD box--ease of use is well-worth the $5/mo.

Good luck in your decision,

tsnider

As Smokey Robinson said, "I Second That [E]motion." I, too, received my 60" XBR and it has been flawless. I ordered the set a week earlier at the great indoors and could have had it the next day but since no one was home I waited til the Saturday before the Super Bowl.

I have a Momitsu V880 (a little flaky in it's controls) connected via DVI, OTA with antenna in the attic and E* but since I have been waiting for months for the 921 HD DVR I have opted to switch back to comcast tomorrow and get their HD DVR from Motorola.

I have followed umr's UM tweaks but have yet to venture into the SM. After my 200 hours it will be ISF calibrated and then I will post my results.

This forum was instrumental in finalizing my decision to go with XBR, along with my own eyes, and so far, it has been a stellar performer.

Good luck. It's a long ride to the finish but well worth it.

Dom

Hey everyone I am new to this forum, but have been lurking around for the last 3 months. My dad has said recently that we are going to replace our old Toshiba Theaterview tv and replace it with the KDF-70XBR950. However he and I have a few questions about it. First I read something about the dvd players not doing progressive scan right... I have a Sony DVP-S7700 dvd player which is not a prog scan player. I also believe I read that the tv has a built in scaler is that true? If so will my xbox look like crap when it is hooked up?

Mcgregor, the Sony XBR950 has an excellent internal scaler. The S7700 is a very good interlaced player. I am using a top interlaced player and the Bravo D1 DVI player was no better to my eye...joe

Thanks a ton for your responses folks. Now I feel confident about my purchase. I cannot wait to get my XBR!! I'm gonna move from a 32'' to 60''. Boy, would that be a welcome change!!

I ordered my 70" XBR last Friday, Any idea what the lead time will be? I ordered mine through Tweeters and they state 2 weeks. Not sure how accurate that is. To all future purchasers, shop around, go to the Sony site and look for small stores for pricing and then buy through the larger chains with price matching. Although Tweeter was reluctant to match the price I purchased mine for TV $5,600 and Stand $749. Tweeters states they pay 5K for the set and are loosing money selling at $5600, there is not enough profit to absorb there overhead on this TV

Is there enough room on 70" XBR stand for: Cable Box, Reciever, DVD and VCR? I am placing my XBR in the basement were the floor is at an angle. I am going to build a 3 inch high platform to level the floor. This is were the stand will sit. Would someone give me actual demensions of the stand, TV especially the width of the TV? How far from the wall is the TV required to be for adequate cooling? Thanks in advance.
Ed

The manual (same for the 60 and 70 inch sets) says to keep the back 4 inches from the wall. Now, the back is not flat but more or less 'V' shapped so this is not very hard.

Someone asked a few days ago about the front of the base and if it retracts. Yes. WHen extended, it is 3 inches in front of the front surface of the screen. It retracts about 7 inches, supposedly to allow recessed mounting.

When turning on, I get no flickers or flashes, the picture just slowly brightenes over about a minute's time.

My 70 incher has been back from repairs for almost 3 days. It is working excellently. The D.I.C. block assembly was replaced.

IO have a question: On the repaired set, the picture settings, in terms of brightness, are pro (least), vivid, and then standard (brightest). This is not the way I remembered before the repair when I thought vivid was the brightest. Did something get hooked up incorrectly? Why did the salesman tell me that vivid would wear the bulb our the fastest if standard is brighter?

Is there anyway to spike directly to the Video 6 input without stepping through Video 1 thru 5?

On my 60"xbr950 vivid is the brightest.
As for spiking directly to video 6, if you do not have anything on 1 to 5, you can set these to 'skip', and they will not come up. But if you are using these, I believe you have to go through them until you get to 6.

Originally posted by K3n
On the repaired set, the picture settings, in terms of brightness, are pro (least), vivid, and then standard (brightest). This is not the way I remembered before the repair when I thought vivid was the brightest. Did something get hooked up incorrectly? Why did the salesman tell me that vivid would wear the bulb our the fastest if standard is brighter?

Is there anyway to spike directly to the Video 6 input without stepping through Video 1 thru 5?


Vivid should be brightest especially when viewing HD but it's possible to adjust Standard or Pro to be brighter via the user menu. Resetting each to their defaults may get them back to where they used to be.

As far as accessing inputs, you have to go through them all unless you ask it to skip the ones that you don't use in the Video Label section of the setup menu. There are remotes that can access inputs directly but not the one that comes with the TV.

Thanks guys. I am going to set some of those Video's to 'skip' and will try resetting the video settings to their default levels.

Hi folks:

I have some questions that I was hoping you could help me with.

1. My first question concerns my component hookups to the XBR950. My components are as follows:

Sony KDF-60XBR950
Yamaha RX-V2300
Denon DVD-2900
Dish DVR921 receiver and PVR
Xbox

Here is my configuration:

Yamaha RX-V2300: Component video from Monitor Out on receiver to Video Input 5 on XBR950.
Denon: Component video connection to DVD input on Yamaha receiver.
Dish DVR921: Component video connection to Cable/DBS input on Yamaha receiver.
Xbox: Component video to Video Input 6 on XBR950.

Is this the best configuration, or should I be doing something else here? With only 2 rear component video connections on the back of the TV, I cannot connect all of my components via component cables directly to the TV. The DVR921 has a DVI connection, and I purchased a DVI-D cable and hooked it up, but saw no improvement in the picture quality versus component video connections. Needless to say, I returned the DVI-D cable.

2. I am considering getting the TV professionally ISF calibrated, and was wondering if it is truly worth the money. I ask this because I have heard that some folks have not been happy after they had their TVs professionally calibrated - mostly because the calibration settings make the screen look too dark for their taste. Has anyone had a bad experience with ISF calibration? I'd be interested in hearing any good stories also. Would you hire an ISF technician to calibrate your TV if he had no experience on the XBR950?

3. Some of the posts I have read recommend disabling the progressive scan on the DVD player and let the TV handle it in order to get the best picture. Is this true for all DVD players, or am I missing something here?

Thanks for the help,

Shannon

I just received my KDF-70XBR950 yesterday and hooked up a SONY SLV-D300P DVD player. Unfortunately, I can never get a full screen picture of my DVD's regardless of the view I am using (Zoom, widescreen, etc.) My understanding was that a widescreen movie should fill up the entire KDF-70XBR950 screen?? Is it possible that my DVD Player is transmitting a 4:3 image instead of a 16:9 image. If so, is this something I can change within my DVD player?

Any help would be appreciated.....
Clay

shannono44,

I've got a similar setup coming soon and wondered the same. I'm pretty sure that your Yamaha Receiver will do a good job component switching your inputs to the screen. The more you can run with quality into the Yamaha the easier switching will be... I think.

Van G

sjclay,

Yes your DVD setup should allow you to set the mode as 4:3 or 16:9. That should fix it for u.

Clay, There are different aspect ratios for different movies. Only 1.85 to 1 will fill up the screen. Many movies are wider then that. The wider the movie, the bigger the bars. Look on the DVD box, most show the aspect ratio or say enhanced for 16:9 screens.

sjclay,

With your DVD player on, but stopped, press the "Set Up" button on your remote. On screen go to the Screen Setup menu (This should be a picture of a TV with a musical note beside it). Under screen setup you should see TV TYPE: 16:9. If it says anything starting with 4:3... then set it to 16:9.

I'm not sure that this is what your problem is, but this will verify that your DVD player is set up correctly. If the movie is a PanaVision or a format other than 1.85:1, then you will still have small black bars at the top and bottom of the screen, but the movie should fill the width of the screen. Star Wars Episode II is an example of movie that will have black bars at the top and bottom.

Thank you for your reply's... I will double check the settings tonight.

I know this is probably a dumb post (forgive me for being naive), but if I watch DVD's with the bars do I have to worry about burn in problems with the KDF-70XBR950?
Clay

Originally posted by shannono44

3. Some of the posts I have read recommend disabling the progressive scan on the DVD player and let the TV handle it in order to get the best picture. Is this true for all DVD players, or am I missing something here?

I was wondering about this too and asked, but nobody answered. My DVD player has two sets of RGB outputs: progressive scan and component. I am currently using the progressive scan outputs, but wonder if the component outputs might be better (it's hard for me to switch between them because I can't reach the back of the player without disassembling stuff).

I've heard references to "deinterlacing". I would have though that DVDs, being digital to begin with, wouldn't need "deinterlacing" if I was using the progressive scan outputs. Is "deinterlacing" still required with these outputs--that is, is there something about the way DVDs are encoded that requires the player to produce an interlaced version of the signal, which then has to be de-interlaced? In that case, it might be better to let the $6k TV do it instead of a relatively cheap DVD player.

I guess the only way to say for sure is to try it. I'm hoping someone will tell me that it's worth the trouble. :-)

Clay,

LCDs are signifigantly less susceptible to burn-in than CRTs. Some say they are completely immune, but I have seen other information that says they can have some burn in. I would say unless you have a fixed fully bright image on consistently for several days or longer, you'd probably be safe. I've also heard that burn in on LCD's is not permanent. I would say for all practical purposes, they are immune from burn in.

I not only watch alot of DVDs with high aspect ratios (black bars on top and bottom) but I also watch all 4:3 programs on the "Normal" setting with black bars on each side. I have no concerns about burn in. I watched letterboxed movies on my old direct view 32" CRT for 3 years, and never had any visible burn in. CRTs are MUCH more susceptible to burn in.

I also have the KDF-70XBR950.

sjclay,

These two are totally mutually-exclusive. These forums are a place to ask Qs....all of them....no sweat

InvaderZim,

You wrote:

Originally posted by InvaderZim
My DVD player has two sets of RGB outputs: progressive scan and component. I am currently using the progressive scan outputs, but wonder if the component outputs might be better (it's hard for me to switch between them because I can't reach the back of the player without disassembling stuff).

I hate to ask a stupid question, but I am confused by your saying that you have 2 sets of RGB outputs. Are your progressive scan outputs RCA outputs, or something I haven't seen before?

I thought disabling progressive scanning was a DVD setup menu option, but it sounds like it's a cabling option based on what you have said. Can you clarify please?

Originally posted by shannono44
I hate to ask a stupid question, but I am confused by your saying that you have 2 sets of RGB outputs. Are your progressive scan outputs RCA outputs, or something I haven't seen before?

I thought disabling progressive scanning was a DVD setup menu option, but it sounds like it's a cabling option based on what you have said. Can you clarify please?

Not stupid at all. This is actually a Phillips DVDR985 DVD recorder, but I use it mostly as a player. It has "Component Video In", "Component Video Out" (each 3 RCA jacks), and "Progressive Scan Out" (3 more jacks).

The only mention of the setup menu is an "Optimize Video Output" option, which says

If you selected Optimize video output, press [Up/Down] to select
Interlaced or Progressive Scan, then press OK. Select
Progressive Scan if you used the PROG SCAN OUT jacks on the
DVD Recorder to connect the Recorder to the TV. Details are on
page 10. Otherwise, choose Interlaced. Choosing Progressive Scan,
when applicable, will sharpen the image of a paused or still picture or
DVD menu.

Under hookup instructions, it says

If your TV has Progressive Scan,
connect the DVD Recorder’s
PROG SCAN OUT Y PB PR jacks
to the TV’s Progressive Scan In
jacks (instead of using the COMPONENT
VIDEO OUT jacks as
described in step 2). Progressive
Scan produces a clearer picture
by doubling the number of visible
picture lines per field, providing a
jitter-free, sharp, quiet picture.
Only use these connections if your
TV has Progressive Scan. Check
your TV manual for details.

So I'm basically wondering if the DVD player has to deinterlace the picture to feed the progressive scan output, or if it gets created that way to begin with.

hello, i just received my new kdf70xbr950 from sony yesterday to replace my 2 year old kdp65xbr2 that had flicker issues. last night i set it up and turned it on. after 2 minutes i noticed a black line line running vertically about an inch from the left side of the screen approx. 5-7 inches long. i cant believe this. im going from one problem set to another. can anyone tell me what this might be? thanks for your help .. jim

Ok... now there's a problem. We watched our 70" XBR 950 for about two hours tonight. Then I went upstairs to do some work for an hour. Went back down and now the set won't turn on. I press the Power button, the fan turns on, the green light starts blinking and a soft, one second buzz comes from the lamp area. The light flashes maybe 10 times and there's another buzz. A few more flashes, another buzz. Then the red lamp light starts blinking.

I've noticed the buzz the last few times I turned the set on, but it was working fine.

I unplugged the set for a minute, plugged it back in without success. I repeated it and still no joy.

I took off the plastic panel covering the lamp, but didn't attempt to remove the lamp--looks like a hex screwdriver is required. Is it possible that I just removing and reinserting the lamp might be helpful? I'm hesitant to do that so I don't get blamed for causing the problem by messing with it.

The set is just over 30 days old. I'll call my dealer tomorrow, but if there's something else to try, I'll do it. The production date from the back panel is December, 2003. If the lamp is already burned out, is my dealer likely to have another already?

Any hints would be really appreciated.

A followup: I found this fascinating post that everyone with one of these sets should read. It answers questions about the best way to prolong lamp life, the source of the 'buzz', etc. I don't know for sure that it's true, but it makes sense. The post:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2984639#post2984639

The good news: I turned the set on after reading this post. It made the buzz but came right on. So I'm assuming the lamp hadn't cooled enough and that was causing a problem (although it hasn't caused a problem in the past). Whew. Of course, I have no assurance that the problem is fixed and I'll call the dealer. Someone had previously posted about a service bulletin, and I'll find that and ask the dealer about it. In the meantime, I stressed to the kids that they shouldn't turn it on if they're in the family room/kitchen for a five minute snack, but to only turn it on if they're going to watch for 1/2 hour at least. That seems like a small price to pay to prolong the life of the lamp.

Originally posted by Corvette6769
I have been wondering this too for the KDF-70XBR950.

Anyone know for sure what the last production date and/or serial number was before Sony had all the issues corrected?

Are the Sony serial numbers always in a ascending sequential order?

Is the build date on the outside of the carton?

Is the build date spelled out or is it an alpha-numeric date code?

Still wondering.....anyone know for sure?

Like many here, I am going to rebuild my component home theater system from the ground up (again) and will need to purchase many pieces starting with the KDF-70XBR950 as my monitor.

In the past I have found knowing the actual dealer's cost to be a valuable tool when negotiating purchase price.

So far I have received several differing reports.

Anyone know for certain what the actual dealer cost is for the Sony KDF-70XBR950?

Where on the Internet a person can go to learn what true dealer cost is for various high-dollar electronic equipment (like we do with new automobiles)?

If posting an answer or link would violate the forum rules, please Private Message it to me.

Thank you!

Adelphia just upgraded the firmware in the Sci. Atlanta 3250HD STB that I've been using with component cables for the past few weeks. Now, the DVI output is enabled!

I cabled up the DVI to the XBR's DVI input. The picture is even better than the excellent component cable connection --- but there is NO SOUND! In that the XBR uses a DVI-D cable (just digital) and can't take a DVI-I cable (with analog sound), I don't know what to do to get sound with that great picture on Video 7.

Any hints?

Originally posted by InvaderZim
A followup: I found this fascinating post that everyone with one of these sets should read. It answers questions about the best way to prolong lamp life, the source of the 'buzz', etc. I don't know for sure that it's true, but it makes sense. The post:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2984639#post2984639

The good news: I turned the set on after reading this post. It made the buzz but came right on. So I'm assuming the lamp hadn't cooled enough and that was causing a problem (although it hasn't caused a problem in the past). Whew. Of course, I have no assurance that the problem is fixed and I'll call the dealer. Someone had previously posted about a service bulletin, and I'll find that and ask the dealer about it. In the meantime, I stressed to the kids that they shouldn't turn it on if they're in the family room/kitchen for a five minute snack, but to only turn it on if they're going to watch for 1/2 hour at least. That seems like a small price to pay to prolong the life of the lamp.

Call Sony tell them your situation , and they should send you out a new OSRAM Bulb. Apparently (from posts I read) if you get the Fla office for support they send it without hesitation. If your set is already buzzing, more than likely it will not go away no matter how good you baby it. The current fix for these buzzing sets is the new brand of bulb.and the Cause is a defective Phillips bulb
I had a buzzing set and I've been posting/following the Buzz thread since it was only one page there had been a few service bullitens and the latest is to replace only the bulb with the new brand. I too had high hopes when that post came out but My TV only got worse untill I could never get it on no matter what I did. That was with the GWIII. Because of the Buzz is why I now own a XBR.

Originally posted by roblake
Adelphia just upgraded the firmware in the Sci. Atlanta 3250HD STB that I've been using with component cables for the past few weeks. Now, the DVI output is enabled!

I cabled up the DVI to the XBR's DVI input. The picture is even better than the excellent component cable connection --- but there is NO SOUND! In that the XBR uses a DVI-D cable (just digital) and can't take a DVI-I cable (with analog sound), I don't know what to do to get sound with that great picture on Video 7.
Any hints?

TimeWarner enabled the DVI output in my 3250HD about 3 weeks ago and I switched to it. It requires a DVI-D connector, and I just connected the analog input on the set's Video 7 with a stereo RCA cable. Easy!

I've seen a number of complaints about incompatibilities between the DVI/HDCP output on the 3250HD and various projectors, but it works fine with this set for the most part. I do find that if I turn the cable box off so it can update its program guide (it only seems to be able to do that when off), sometimes I'll get nothing except snow when turning it back on. To fix that, I either have to unplug and replug the DVI cable from the 3250HD, but an easier fix is to switch to a channel that has a different resolution (i.e. from a hidef channel to regular, or regular to hidef). I'm using the DVI in passthrough mode, BTW, so the TV can perform the conversion from 1080i rather than the box. The TV does a *much* better job, especially if the source is 480i.

Next week, TimeWarner is releasing the SA 8000HD hidef DVD recorder! Unfortunately, the DVI output on that won't be enabled for a while. But I didn't notice much difference between component and DVI on the 3250HD. I just hope the 8000HD has the passthrough mode that the 3250HD firmware upgrade added.

Originally posted by Villanman
Call Sony tell them your situation , and they should send you out a new OSRAM Bulb. Apparently (from posts I read) if you get the Fla office for support they send it without hesitation. If your set is already buzzing, more than likely it will not go away no matter how good you baby it. The current fix for these buzzing sets is the new brand of bulb.and the Cause is a defective Phillips bulb
I had a buzzing set and I've been posting/following the Buzz thread since it was only one page there had been a few service bullitens and the latest is to replace only the bulb with the new brand. I too had high hopes when that post came out but My TV only got worse untill I could never get it on no matter what I did. That was with the GWIII. Because of the Buzz is why I now own a XBR.

Thank you so much for replying! I will do that. My son turned it on this morning (cold start) and said it came on right away. He didn't notice the buzz, but he's only 12. I'll call Sony.

I also made it clear to the kids that the set should only be turned on if they will watch for 1/2 hour or more. It's in our kitchen/family room, and they tend to turn it on for five minutes when they're having a snack. Bad idea.

Does anyone know what the new brand is? I thought Phillips was the only source for these bulbs.

Does anyone know what the new brand is? I thought Phillips was the only source for these bulbs.

OSRAM

My KDF70 just came back from repairs Tuesday and now I noticed what looks to be about a 6 by 14 inch comma-shaped dust spot near the top center of the picture. It's not on the outside and only noticeable when there is a uniform light background such as blue sky or white snow. Any ideas what this is and how to clean it? I already called Sony and they said to call the local repair shop. They will, based on past experiences, take 3 weeks to do anything.

Finally, my 60xbr will be here by Thursday! But not from CC. After waiting since Dec 28th, numerous calls, and a visit/discussion with CC manager last week they could not give/get any info on when it would be coming. So I found one in stock in an online store based in NJ, (I am in NEPA), and it will be here this week. Even better yet, With delivery, and a 4 year extended warranty, the price was over $1000 less than the deal at CC.

You should not use a PC for this LCD screen quality is horried at best! However you can hookup the new Pioneer Elite DVD player the 59 model via FireWire, and two JVC HD VCRs the 30000U, and 40000U models and Mitsubishi has some HD VCRs via FireWire.

Originally posted by MacG5
You should not use a PC for this LCD screen quality is horried at best! However you can hookup the new Pioneer Elite DVD player the 59 model via FireWire, and two JVC HD VCRs the 30000U, and 40000U models and Mitsubishi has some HD VCRs via FireWire.

My experience with a JVC 30K on a tweaked XBR over firewire was top notch.

Is anyone using an Ideal-Lume light with their XBR950?

I have a KDF-70XBR950, and I'm wondering what the best options for mounting and placement of the light are. So far it looks as if just mounting it directly on the wall, about dead center behind the screen is the best option, but I thought some of you might have some other good ideas.

Hi all,

This is my first post to this great forum, hopefully someone can give me some good news! I purchased a 60" XBR from Sound Advice (Tweeters) which came out of the box with a large area of red pixels, about the size of a golf ball. They tried to tell me that it was my speakers not being magnetically shielded (they are) that caused the problem, but they ended up bringing a new one several weeks later. Last night, I noticed another area of red pixels, similar in size and location to the last one. I would think after spending this much on a TV that it wouldn't have to be replaced twice in under two months! Does any one have similar issues or know of any "lemon laws" that would allow me to get my money back?
Thanks for the help,

my 60xbr950 always goes solid green on the 6th flash.

Mine too

KC-Technerd,

Here are some portions of a new installation tips document we just composed last week that should help:

OBJECTIVE:

Understanding the goal and fundamental principles of electronic display viewing environment lighting will guide the user in achieving the best mounting location. The SMPTE and ISO recommendations specify that the level of ambient illumination should be substantially lower than the peak white output of the display. For video monitors, SMPTE specifies less than 10%. Illumination should originate from behind the frontal plane of the screen and the light source should not shine in the eyes of the viewer. Typically, the illumination should be directed onto the wall or surrounding surfaces adjacent to or behind the display. Try to achieve an even light spread without hot spots or intense concentrations of light on the wall near the edge of the screen from the perspective of the viewer.

Surround surfaces should be neutral in color or as near neutral as possible to preserve accurate color perception of the image on the screen. Neutral can be any shade of gray, or combination of gray, from black to white. The standard reference for neutral used in professional display environments is from the Munsell Color Order System. Munsell Neutral Value Scale samples are available on our web site. These samples can be used to match paints, stains or fabrics.

MOUNTING METHODS:

Some experimentation is usually necessary to achieve the right level of illumination and even light spread on the wall or area behind the display. So many display types in use today and variations in installations prevent us from specifying exact mounting locations. Use of the clear diffuser is optional if protection of the bulb from impact is not required. Please contact us by phone or e-mail if you need additional advice.

Ideal-Lume viewing environment luminaires can be placed on the floor or shelf behind the display, or laid on top of wall mount brackets for flat-panel displays. Close proximity to interconnect cabling or the display itself has not shown to introduce electrical interference with thousands of units in use around the world. Locating the product as low as possible typically allows for more even and broad light spread on the wall.

Screws and drywall anchors are included for attaching the fixture to the wall or the back of the display itself. Caution should be used in drilling holes in the back of the display. Some displays do not allow for this and drill bits or screws may contact vital components inside the cabinet.

Many displays have screws along the cabinet back that can provide a method for suspending the fixture. Try backing out two widely-spaced screws a few turns. The ends of two long strings or wires can be wrapped around the screws a couple of turns. Re-tighten the screws to clamp the end of the string or wire in place. The free ends of the strings or wires can then be formed into a loop and tied at various points to vary the height of the loop. Slip the loops over the opposite ends of the fixture so that it hangs horizontally against the back of the display. Some TVs have ventilation holes that can serve as attachment points for this technique as well. This method allows for easy servicing of the lamp and for rotation of the fixture to aid in regulating the illumination on the wall.

Best regards and beautiful pictures,
G. Alan Brown, President
CinemaQuest, Inc.

Insist on HDTV! :eek:

Does the XBR950 support DVI-I cable? I Just ordered one too!!! But looks like from the picture it doesn't :(

it does support DVI. Thats how I have mine hooked up

Originally posted by Kenn157
it does support DVI. Thats how I have mine hooked up

But only DVI-D.

bah guess I wasted 25 buxs, no other display I have can use DVI-I.

Originally posted by Villanman
I agree, Mine is also 10 everytime. I personally have yet to see an XBR fire up any quicker than 10.

I received my Dec 2003 built set just before the super bowl and every time I fire it up it lights up after only five blinks of the green light.

I got mine in December 2003 as well from Good Guys, and it only takes around 5 blinks as well for it to fire up.

Maybe there is a correlation between build dates and start up times.
Oct. Builds 10 blinks, Dec Builds 5 blinks etc.

Originally posted by MacG5
You should not use a PC for this LCD screen quality is horried at best! However you can hookup the new Pioneer Elite DVD player the 59 model via FireWire, and two JVC HD VCRs the 30000U, and 40000U models and Mitsubishi has some HD VCRs via FireWire.

You are dead wrong about not using a PC. There is a whole thread dedicated to hooking up an HTPC via DVI to the XBR series. (Search for "xbr950" or "GWIII". The thread title is "GW-III to PC over DVI").

I am sitting 13 ft from my 70BXR950 and my PC screen looks FANTASTIC at 1280x720 over the DVI connection. (I am using it to respond to your posting...) No over/under scan, no flicker, and perfectly crisp text.

Speaking without knowledge or experience is not a good practice, my friend. I hope anyone who reads your post also reads this reponse. The XBR950s make marvelous computer monitors. (However, there may be issues playing certain games that try to force the monitor into resolutions/timings that this TV cannot display). I encourage anyone thinking about hooking this up to a computer to read the thread I listed above.

I'm just guessing by your nickname, but perhaps the problem is your "computer", not your TV...

Originally posted by Corvette6769
I have been wondering this too for the KDF-70XBR950.
Anyone know for sure what the last production date and/or serial number was before Sony had all the issues corrected?
Are the Sony serial numbers always in a ascending sequential order?
Is the build date on the outside of the carton?
Is the build date spelled out or is it an alpha-numeric date code?


I don't have answers to all your questions but I have a 60XBR950 and the build date is spelled out on tha back of the TV Mine says Dec 2003. I waited for my set for about a month and according to CC it shipped from sony around 1/20/04. I haven't had any issues with mine but based on the wait, I'm assuming that any issues were reported in Dec were fixed on this set before it shipped.

Originally posted by verbalkint13
Hi all, This is my first post to this great forum, hopefully someone can give me some good news! I purchased a 60" XBR from Sound Advice (Tweeters) which came out of the box with a large area of red pixels, about the size of a golf ball. They tried to tell me that it was my speakers not being magnetically shielded (they are) that caused the problem, but they ended up bringing a new one several weeks later. Last night, I noticed another area of red pixels, similar in size and location to the last one. I would think after spending this much on a TV that it wouldn't have to be replaced twice in under two months! Does any one have similar issues or know of any "lemon laws" that would allow me to get my money back? Thanks for the help,

Welcome. I'm no expert but am trying to give give back to this board for having provided me with so much help in my search for a HDTV. Anyway if the spot is in the exact same location on your second set as it was on the first one you may want to consider the possibility of that something in your home is causing it. If the TV is pretty close to the wall then there could possibly be something in the wall that's messing with your TV or even some other AV component. Tell us more about what kind of components you have near and around the set. Speaker shouldn't be a problem but who knows.


In case it is a problem with this TV please post some pics so that we can know how to recognize this problem in case we encounter it.
Thanks

Maybe there is a correlation between build dates and start up times.
Oct. Builds 10 blinks, Dec Builds 5 blinks etc.

Mine is an October build XBR950... 10 blinks.

If there is a correlation, it would also be interesting to know how many 10 blink XBR950s have had the buzz, vs. how many 5 blink XBR950s have.

Originally posted by dailowai
Does the XBR950 support DVI-I cable? I Just ordered one too!!! But looks like from the picture it doesn't :(

I liked to never got a straight answer out of Sony about this See my post: #546 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3257630#post3257630) , but finally did verify that you need a DVI-D dual link cable.

The attached picture I ran across in eBay shows the various DVI Cable Connector Configurations:

KC

The blink you say... lol

Originally posted by Aleki
Welcome. I'm no expert but am trying to give give back to this board for having provided me with so much help in my search for a HDTV. Anyway if the spot is in the exact same location on your second set as it was on the first one you may want to consider the possibility of that something in your home is causing it. If the TV is pretty close to the wall then there could possibly be something in the wall that's messing with your TV or even some other AV component. Tell us more about what kind of components you have near and around the set. Speaker shouldn't be a problem but who knows.


In case it is a problem with this TV please post some pics so that we can know how to recognize this problem in case we encounter it.
Thanks

Aleki,

Thanks for the help, of course the spot has since disappeared so I can't post any pictures of it, but it wasn't quite in the same location as the last time. The first TV came out of the box that way, while this one developed the spot over a few weeks. As far as components go, I have old Bose cubes, a Klipsch KSW-12 (10+ feet away), Xbox, Sony receiver, vcr and dvd player. I can't think of anything that could be in the wall messing with it as there is only standard wiring etc. to my knowledge. Any ideas would be appreciated, and I will post some pics if it comes back again.
Thanks

If there is a correlation, it would also be interesting to know how many 10 blink XBR950s have had the buzz, vs. how many 5 blink XBR950s have.

My 10 blinker:D has been problem free . Had it 2 months now.
Had the buzz problem with the 50" before i upgraded to the xbr, so I know all too well about the problem. My buzz with the 50" started from day 2.

Originally posted by Villanman
Maybe there is a correlation between build dates and start up times.
Oct. Builds 10 blinks, Dec Builds 5 blinks etc.

Had mine for two weeks, no problems. Blinks 10 times every time. Build date October 2003.

Have had it plugged into APS 1500VA UPS since day one.

Originally posted by KC-Technerd
Mine is an October build XBR950... 10 blinks.

If there is a correlation, it would also be interesting to know how many 10 blink XBR950s have had the buzz, vs. how many 5 blink XBR950s have.

Mine is a Dec 2003 build date with 5 blinks and no buzz. Drop dead gorgeous so far with the only discerning trait is screen-door on white backgrounds.

Working on 200 hours so I can get this bad-boy tweaked and if I can ever get a somewhat reliable cable guy who has shaved and changed in the last month to disable E* and connect comcast's new HD DVR I will be in good shape. So far, I have taken off early twice and still no luck with these incompetents.

Dom

Well, after some lengthy discussions with the wife, we're not getting the 60XBR950.

We're getting the 70XBR950 WOOHOO!!

I guess with my wife size is an issue :D I guess I married well (The 70 was her idea!)

Just a quick followup on my buzz/non-starting problem: since that one time that the set buzzed without turning on, the problem has *not* reoccurred. The set now always comes on immediately (five blinks, I assume but it seems even faster than that--I'll watch more carefullly). For a couple of days, the set made a very brief buzz when coming on, and now it doesn't even do that.

The rules we follow:

1) when the set is turned on, we use it for at least 1/2 hour; if we can't (say a quick check of CNN), I use the sleep timer to have it turn off after 1/2 hour.

2) When the set is turned off, we wait 1/2 hour before turning it back on. The strategy here is to just not turn it off if someone else might want to watch something.

Anyway, since we started following these rules, the startup buzz has gone away and the set comes on instantly! Since there is still a chance the bulb is defective, the local Sony service shop ordered a replacement bulb for me under warranty (I couldn't get Sony to just send me one). If they don't require that I give them the current bulb, I'll have a spare--otherwise, I'll go ahead and replace it anyway.

I'm posting just in case someone reading these posts is discouraged--don't be! The set is wonderful and awes everyone who sees it. I got the Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8000HD DVR yesterday from the cable complany and am loading it up with hidef HBO and Showtime movies. Ahhh, this is the life. :-)

BTW, a friend has a Phillips DLP projector with an OSRAM bulb similar to what I assume is in the XBR950. His projector has an interlock that prevents the projector from being turned back on less than 15 minutes after being turned off. I gather there are two kinds of arc lamps: those that are hot-startable and those that are not. I assume the XBR950 has the hot-startable kind but maybe that doesn't work so well.

Drop dead gorgeous so far with the only discerning trait is screen-door on white backgrounds.


Dominus,

How far are you sitting away from the screen? I'm sitting 11 feet back from my 70". No screen door at all. What is visible is the grain of the anti-reflective screen (behind the reflective acrylic). In a way I kind of like this though, because it gives a "silver screen" look to the set. It is most noticeable on bright whites, but noticeable with any other bright image too.

I think the Sony manual recommends at least 7 feet away from the 60" and 8 feet from the 70".

Concerning the issue of number of blinks and its correlation to build date. Did someone consider input selection? I know when I have my input to the High Def antenna input, it takes about 10 blinks. When I have it to regular cable, the sound comes on much quicker, but I am not sure about the blinks. I will check this when I get back home.

Well after waiting since Dec 28 with CC, I ordered from another store and the 60xbr arrived today. It is a Dec 03 build. Out of the box it started on 4 or 5 blinks. The PQ on component with 921 is awesome. No problems with the screen. I just did a quick setup to get it working and had to get back to the office. Did not check the bulb but it is probably the Phillips. I have an APC surge/backup and will get everything set up properly tonight. Does anyone know which DVI cable I need to run between the Dish 921 and the tv? Once it is setup I'll take some pics, and give you the specs on the whole system.

Originally posted by KC-Technerd
Dominus,

How far are you sitting away from the screen? I'm sitting 11 feet back from my 70". No screen door at all. What is visible is the grain of the anti-reflective screen (behind the reflective acrylic). In a way I kind of like this though, because it gives a "silver screen" look to the set. It is most noticeable on bright whites, but noticeable with any other bright image too.

I think the Sony manual recommends at least 7 feet away from the 60" and 8 feet from the 70".

On a 60" XBR LCD I could easily make out thre "screen door" effect on bright scenes from nine feet away. It's a great set put the screen door effect is there, especially on bright scenes.

Originally posted by beemer58
Well after waiting since Dec 28 with CC, I ordered from another store and the 60xbr arrived today. It is a Dec 03 build. Out of the box it started on 4 or 5 blinks. The PQ on component with 921 is awesome. No problems with the screen. I just did a quick setup to get it working and had to get back to the office. Did not check the bulb but it is probably the Phillips. I have an APC surge/backup and will get everything set up properly tonight. Does anyone know which DVI cable I need to run between the Dish 921 and the tv? Once it is setup I'll take some pics, and give you the specs on the whole system.

You need a DVI-D cable. DVI-I cable will not fit in the DVI connector on the TV.

Originally posted by beemer58
Does anyone know which DVI cable I need to run between the Dish 921 and the tv?

Make sure it is a DVI-D DUAL LINK cable - See my post: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3350595#post3350595

Does anyone receive a new XBR recently? Can you post the
build date and serial number?

Just want to have a feel for if Sony is shipping it out. It's taking forever
to get my TV deliver.

Just got mine today. Dec 03 build. Will have ser no later when I get home

I have the 70", I have had this unit for 3 months. I have been very happy over all. I have some trouble picking up some local digital stations and will be installing a new RG-11 coax up to my attic in the next week. I currently use the Trek 55 up in the attic. My house was pre-wired with coax but I am unsure of the coax quality.

I have my unit hooked up to a D-VHS (i.Link) and HTPC(DVI). I used powerstrip to add a 1184x666 setting to my monitor settings. To do this I told XP that I had a W900 monitor. I then uninstalled powerstrip. I use the display control panel to set the display to 1184x666. This approximates 720p. If I go to the service mode I can see that the set is syncing on a 720p signal. I then went into the service mode and adjusted MID4 setting for position & size. I get a great looking screen, there is no flicker and the desktop just fits the frame. Without the service menu adjustment I got some overscan. DVD playback is wonderful, I will be selling my high end DVD player in the next few weeks.

I tried 1280x720 and the image had some ghosting and some flicker. I was never able to get a great PC display with 1080i. I would interested if someone found a resolution that worked.

I was at the CES show out in Vegas, the Sony salespeople wish their set were easier to use with a PC. From what I could tell, all LCD and plasma screens do a great job with a PC hooked up with DVI. The LCD projection still uses all the front porch and back porch stuff and is picky.

My unit has no buzz, it make a little fan noise but it is not that bad, and I am very picky.

Have had the 60xbr running all day. So far so good. We did turn it on and off several times and no problem. Using component waiting for DVI cable. It is a Dec 03 build, ser no. 9101744 I did not look at the bulb yet. I have the Avia setup CD, but I'll wait for the DVI, probably mess with it this weekend. PQ is awesome, no sign of pixel problems or anything.
rest of my setup

Dish 921 sat rec
Sony STR K850 surround rec
Sony NC 665P CD/DVD
Sony SLV N51 VHS
APC b/u surge protector
Sauder credenza 846-920

My unit has no buzz, it make a little fan noise but it is not that bad, and I am very picky.
Are you saying it makes an occasional fan noise?
The "buzz" actually sounds like a fanblade hitting something.

Beemer58,

Thanks for posting some pics of your set-up. I wish we could see more of those to get an idea of stands,speaker positioning,etc.
I should be receiving my 60XBR950on the 27th of this month & I will try to post some pics too. As I will be having to use a ceiling drop for my center channel above the TV. Let you know how it turns out.

Brian

Looks like Sony is trying to ship the DEC 2003 build date with the ???? fix. I think the fix for some of the GIII issues are fixed in there. If there's a
strong demand for this product, we should be getting in the
Feb/2004 build date.

Originally posted by rmai
Looks like Sony is trying to ship the DEC 2003 build date with the ???? fix. I think the fix for some of the GIII issues are fixed in there. If there's a
strong demand for this product, we should be getting in the
Feb/2004 build date.

OH believe me...their's a strong demand! hehe
My $$ down Jan 22nd....still waiting:( Expected ship date of Feb 20th
Wait lists still continue to grow according to my salesman.

LOTR_Guy

If the XBR950 is distributed similar to the way the non XBR GWIIIs, you may find that some distributors actually have these in stock while other have to order them.

In my area Circuit City had the GWIIIs in stock while Sears had to order them.

Even if you do find them in stock, it would be worthwhile to get one that has the "fixes".

I bought my set on January 3, got it delivered the following day and it was a DEC 2003 build. BTW, it's been fine since my last posting. Only buzzes very briefly if turned on while the lamp is still hot (say, within 1/2 hour of last being on). Even then, it's been turning on in 5 blinks.

Originally posted by JimP
LOTR_Guy

If the XBR950 is distributed similar to the way the non XBR GWIIIs, you may find that some distributors actually have these in stock while other have to order them.

In my area Circuit City had the GWIIIs in stock while Sears had to order them.

Even if you do find them in stock, it would be worthwhile to get one that has the "fixes".

I've been following this thread for some time now. I may have missed this:confused: How are we supposed to identify the ones that have been..as you put it.."fixed"..?? As I was not aware their was an actual way to confirm this.
Thanks for your help,

-Brian
P.S. I'm solidified on my sale through Crutchfield & I plan on waiting to they get their shipment in.(hopefully the 20th) And you are correct the CC in my area has a long wait list while the Tweeter here had one in stock, however I'll be keeping my business w/ Crutchfield for personal reasons;)

I was wondering if anyone else notices that when the TV goes to a black screen eg. when switching from one program to an ad or when on a blank input the entire screen is not an even shade of black(grey). I have a noticeable green tint in the bottom right hand corner and also along the whole left side of the screen. The middle is a more even shade of dark grey.

I notice it all the time especially when watching movies and they have a momentary blank screen between scense. I'd like to know if anyone else notices this on their set of if anyone has had a set that does this this fixed successfully or replaced with one that showed and even black screen. It's not noticeable except on a black/dark grey screen

Thanks in advance

Originally posted by Aleki
I was wondering if anyone else notices that when the TV goes to a black screen eg. when switching from one program to an ad or when on a blank input the entire screen is not an even shade of black(grey). I have a noticeable green tint in the bottom right hand corner and also along the whole left side of the screen. The middle is a more even shade of dark grey.

I notice it all the time especially when watching movies and they have a momentary blank screen between scense. I'd like to know if anyone else notices this on their set of if anyone has had a set that does this this fixed successfully or replaced with one that showed and even black screen. It's not noticeable except on a black/dark grey screen

Thanks in advance

Here is a thread on the subject
Color uniformity on a black screen (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=2853555#post2853555)

Originally posted by LOTR_GUY
How are we supposed to identify the ones that have been..as you put it.."fixed"..?? As I was not aware their was an actual way to confirm this.
Thanks for your help,




Hasn't there been a pattern that those after the problem had been identified, redesigned and production resumed , start up after 5 blinks of the green light? Prior to that, the XBRs would light after 10 blinks.


Others, please correct me if this is totally off base.

Hasn't there been a pattern that those after the problem had been identified, redesigned and production resumed , start up after 5 blinks of the green light? Prior to that, the XBRs would light after 10 blinks.

With the problem being identified as the lamp, it's hard to say.
There doesn't seem to be too many XBR's on this forum reported with this problem.
In relation to the WE610 some Jan 04 builds still had the problem and had the supposed fix.In that sense, even if it did have a change in dec builds that only blink 5 times it wasn't the ultimate fix since it turned out to be the lamp all along.
So it's going to come down to what lamp you have.
However I have had my XBR now 2+ months 10 blinks and no problems.
Previous to that i had the 50"GWIII with the problem.
I personally wouldn't worry because with the new lamp being the fix , If for some bad chance you get a tv with the buzz powerup/problem all you need is a new lamp.

Originally posted by Villanman
Here is a thread on the subject
Color uniformity on a black screen (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=2853555#post2853555)

Aleki,
Till a few days ago I had the 55" Philips Cineos, & the discoloration you & alot of the people on the GWIII threads are explaining is the EXACT reason why I returned it. During dark/black scenes in movies or during channel changing you could easily see a couple of noticeable light/whiter spots. It was very annoying as during these scenes it would instantly draw your attention to the spots.
My 60XBR950 arrives middle of next week & I am seriously praying this issue isnt going to affect my display..seeing as that I returned a previous TV because of this problem. Accept now I'm paying an additional $1500 for the Sony and the issue may still be there:(
I'm sorry for the rant,,but I've worked my butt off to save up for this display & to pay close to $5,500....for me this problem will be unacceptable.
Before I get worked up though...let me get my TV,set it up & I will keep everyone informed if I am affected.

Brian

About the color uniformity on my xbr..
The issue of uniformity isn't lighter spots
It's a total black screen with part of it having a green tint and the rest having a blue and or red tint. It's there if I look for it on a blank or all black screen.
Is it noticeable? My family hasn't noticed it yet and I can't tell when I'm actually watching something even on dark scenes. But it is there.
I also went through 2 50" GWIII's. All had the same issue but could only be seen on a blank all black screen and some was more noticeable than others but it never effected normal viewing.

I'm just beginning to wonder if this might be a uniformed issue amongst all rear projection LCD's. While the Sony's might be a greyish color or some have seen green/red spots. White/grey spots for the Philips...who knows what else amongst the other Maufactures (havent had time to research other maufacture rear projection LCD threads) But my point is that it seems maybe something in this technology is allowing for far too easy discoloration on blacks & dark scenes.

Brian

Thanks for all the responses everyone and thanks for for posting that link Villanman. After reading the entire post I've decided to keep my set. My decision is based mostly on the fact that the picture quality on this set is exceptional outside of this problem on black sceens.

anyone have any problems with voice synchronization??

I started noticing that sometimes the voice sync on my 60 xbr950 is out of phase with whomever is speaking on the set at the time.

For now I am only noticing this on HD programing not the anolog stuff. Again it is only sometimes....

Anyone???

Originally posted by 20026speed
anyone have any problems with voice synchronization??

I started noticing that sometimes the voice sync on my 60 xbr950 is out of phase with whomever is speaking on the set at the time.

For now I am only noticing this on HD programing not the anolog stuff. Again it is only sometimes....

Anyone???

The only sync problems I have had is with our NBC HD feed, However that is a programming issue and is not an issue cause by the TV.

COuld it be programing

Yes it could be a programing thing...I first noticed it the night of the grammy awards a few nights ago....my ladyfriend said she's seen it a few times while she's watched the tv on her own...then I noticed it again this afternoon during the daytona 300 nascar race...it was on nbc

Great HD picture however

Digital Channel setup question:

OK, have had the OTA hooked up for awhile on my 70". How does one go about deleting, in my case, 36.2 and keep 36.1? I really don't want to watch or flip through useless weather channels. Going through the menus it doesn't seem so straightforward, Maybe I've just been lazy about reading the manual indepth or its just not in there.

Frustrated in Central Texas...

had the 60xbr for about 3 weeks now and because i couldnt find the remote for my stb i had to go up to the tv to change the channel. i saw a dead pixel. i know its only 1 and not visible from where i sit but i thought i would post about it. the build date is jan 2004. hopefully i wont find anymore. :(

Just wondering how many of you XBR owners use the TV's built-in speaker system vs. a receiver and separate surround speaker set-up? As I await delivery I am wondering if I should be looking to replace my old receiver (Denon AVR-3000 - very good in its day but Pro Logic only) with a new one capable of DTS/Pro Logic II and 6.1 or 7.1 decoding. I would keep my current speaker system including M&K subwoofer. Other alternative would be to just use the TV's speakers and the sub only connected directly to the TV. I do this in the bedroom with a smaller Sony plasma and smaller M&K sub, and it improves the bass considerably, but then again I don't need big sound in the bedroom. I understand that the built-in speakers on the XBR70 are quite good (hard to judge in the big CC showroom), and I'm thinking I'll try them first before deciding to buy and connect a receiver and surround speaker system, but just wondering what others here are doing.

Also for those who are using a receiver do you route everything through it (including video) and if so how much did this seem to affect the quality of the picture? Ideally I would think a direct connection from a HD cable (or SAT) box and DVD to the TV would be best, and then possibly use an amplifier/receiver for audio only(?) - thoughts?

I use the built in speakers for regular TV watching. I think the speakers are ok. My previous TV was a Sony XBR2 that had speakers that hung off the side of the TV. I think they were a little better. the Sub in the XBR950 seems boomy to me.

I find the audio quality of most shows to be pretty low anyway. We did watch the grammys in HDTV with DD5.1 through the full HT set up.

Hi, everyone. Great thread. I'm about ready to pull the trigger on a 70XBR950 but I am not getting anywhere in terms of pricing. I'm really not very good at negotiating(OK I'm really bad :)) If anyone has any pointers or what price point you got yours I would greatly appreciate it. Please PM me. Thanks for your time.

.Hi, everyone. Great thread. I'm about ready to pull the trigger on a 70XBR950 but I am not getting anywhere in terms of pricing. I'm really not very good at negotiating(OK I'm really bad ) If anyone has any pointers or what price point you got yours I would greatly appreciate it. Please PM me. Thanks for your time.

I have a quote for 8.6% off of the 70" XBR delivered. I think 10% off is attainable. It seems like around 3 or 4 times a year most big retailers have a 10% off sale on all their TV's

Originally posted by UABGrad
I have a quote for 8.6% off of the 70" XBR delivered. I think 10% off is attainable. It seems like around 3 or 4 times a year most big retailers have a 10% off sale on all their TV's

Trust me 8.6% off of the 70" XBR is not a good price.

Even 32.8% off list is still above base dealer cost (and even more depending on the additional Sony volume discount program that dealer qualifies for).

Judging from what I paid today for my KDF-70XBR950, unless you are quoted a grand total (including delivery and tax) equal to 18.7% off of Sony's list price, it would not be a good deal from where I sit.

Originally posted by Corvette6769
...Anyone know for sure what the last production date and/or serial number was before Sony had all the issues corrected?

Are the Sony serial numbers always in a ascending sequential order?

My KDF-70XBR950 shipping out today is serial number S019102629X, but I have no way of knowing when it was produced until it arrives and is unpacked.

Given the known problems noted here with the Sony KDF-70XBR950 relating to poor geometry, dead pixels, color irregularities, convergence, & etc, I sure would like to do what I can to insure that the unit I receive is not one of the ones effected by the production defects.

I sure wish someone would post a serial number from a safe production KDF-70XBR950. I have seen dates, but that does not help if checking on a unit that is still in it's factory sealed carton.

I bought my XBR950 set on January 4, the build date was Dec 2003 and my serial number is before yours--subtract about 1400 and you'll have mine. The set is fine but I apparently have one of the bad bulbs that won't restart when hot. When I turn the set off, and try to turn it back on before 60-90 minutes has passed, the set makes a buzzing noise at 10 second intervals and eventually flashes the "bad bulb" light. Waiting a few more minutes results in a very brief buzz and the set comes on. If it's been off overnight, it comes on immediately.

I've learned that these sets use an arc lamp and cold starting is easy but hot-restarting is difficult. There was a circuit problem that was corrected earlier (November?) and it's possible that this was never a problem, and the only problems were the Philllips bulbs. Now Sony is using OSRAM bulbs and these don't have the problem.

I'm now waiting for a new bulb to arrive at the Sony authorized service facility. Other than that, the set is perfect--everything that I want. I also haven't seen any dead or stuck pixels, but I haven't gone looking either. (I thought I saw one last week, and it turned out to be a dead fly on the screen). Also, the geometry is perfect as far as I can tell, and if there is a green reflectance problem, I haven't seen it. So I'm hoping the bulb replacement will fix the only problem I've encountered.

Originally posted by InvaderZim
I bought my XBR950 set on January 4, the build date was Dec 2003 and my serial number is before yours--subtract about 1400 and you'll have mine.

Thank you for this info InvaderZim.

The KDF-70XBR950 I bought came from a dealer who told me on 1-22-04 that they had no KDF-70XBR950s on hand. Then when I checked back on 2-12-04, I learned that he had received 4 units, so I am assuming that my serial number represents the current production that Sony is shipping right now.

I had a chance to buy KDF-70XBR950 serial number S019100333 from another dealer last week, but passed since the serial number looked very low and since the date is not on the outside of the carton, I was afraid to take a chance. Perhaps it was only the 333rd KDF-70XBR950 produced?

With that said, is it possible that after all this time, that Sony has only produced 2600 of these?

Anyone know what the "X" on the end of some serial numbers means?

Originally posted by Villanman
The only sync problems I have had is with our NBC HD feed, However that is a programming issue and is not an issue cause by the TV.

I would have to agree. The Daytona was just slightly out of sync yesterday on NBC, but I am certain it's a programming issue, not a TV issue.

I don't have that problem on CBS ever. I wish I could get ABC... (cheap b@$t@rds!)

Originally posted by Driver
Digital Channel setup question:

OK, have had the OTA hooked up for awhile on my 70". How does one go about deleting, in my case, 36.2 and keep 36.1? I really don't want to watch or flip through useless weather channels. Going through the menus it doesn't seem so straightforward, Maybe I've just been lazy about reading the manual indepth or its just not in there.

Frustrated in Central Texas...

I went back to the dealer to find out how to get rid of unwanted digital channels, and he said to unhook the antenna and do a new "add cycle", which would remove ALL digital channels. This is not what I wanted.

So I searched thru the owners manual, and also tried searching this forum and others on the web for info on manually adding/removing digital channels from the XBR950s.

Apparently nobody knows how to do this.

BUT I DO NOW. I would take credit for being a clever or ingenious person for finding out how to do this, but it was purely accidental.

I was watching a digital channel, and I went to change to a different channel without looking at the remote. I accidentally pressed the GUIDE button (instead of "1", I think).

AND THERE IT WAS!

A complete setup menu for digital channels, including add/remove! Why they hid it so carefully is beyond me, but now I can manually add/remove digital channels.

Yippeee!

I see it now. Heck I've even been in this menu before just had not selected the appropriate one (before I had the antenna hooked up).

Short Tutorial:

Push the 'Guide' button.
Scroll over to 'Digital Setup"
Select the 2nd menu down 'Channel Show/Hide'
pick the chanel you want to hide and use the play button (>) on the remote
to toggle between Show & Hide

Finally! I knew it had to be somewhere in one of the menus. Thanks. :cool:

Originally posted by Corvette6769
Anyone know what the "X" on the end of some serial numbers means?
Not sure -- my set has neither the S01 prefix nor the X suffix, but that may appear only on the box and not as part of the number stamped on the back of the set.

I'll check the invoices tonight and see if that contains the complete serial number from the box.

Regarding the saga of the bulb--the tech at my local authorized repair facility is calling the Sony tech line today to get to the bottom of the bulb issue. I suggested they just order it and I pick it up, but he needs to find out if Sony wants them to install it, since it's a warranty item. He is also going to check to see if the driver circuit needs to be replaced as well or if the problem is only the bulb not restarting when hot. He did say that in their experience, arc lamps need to be off for a few minutes before they can restart, but 60-90 minutes is too long.

Howdy Gals and Guys....
I'm quite new to this forum, BTW it's the best I have found. ( I have been to a lot too!)..
++ I very glad that I found this thread... ( I was actually browsing the HTPC) forms for the past few days and was wondering if there was one that was dedicated to my TV.. (KDF-70XBR950) LOW-AND-BEHOLD here it is....... "savvy"....!

anyhoo..
I have read lots of interesting things and saw many 'VERY COOL'.... HT set ups... when I get my act together I'll post a few of my HT Starring the SONY XBR950

I will check out the Serial # and the BORN ON DATE.. I bought mine from a merchant in Tennessee. paid 6k delivered and insured to my doorstep.. I have had it since Dec 15th, so it has to be one of the older born models. .. Green light flashes about 10/11 times prior to seeing a picture.
BUT..... I have not run into any issues with it in almost 2 moths now. (knock on wood)

My main goal now is to build a HTPC.. I will be posting some ?'s in that forum on some suggestions..

If anyone here would like to PM me re: their set up and what is a good starting point .. it would be an AWESOME start.

Thinking of a Antec Overture case and can't decide on the P4 3.0w/ht or the AMD 64 3000+......
I know..... this is not the place to ask these Q'?'s... :)

I will post again once I get some pictures done up, and I'm on my way to building a new HTPC...

Can't wait to play Farcry, and Doom on that 70" bad boy....
yeeeeha....

Ya'll have a great day..... and thanks for reading

Need some advise. I am wanting to purchase the 60" XBR. A local store has stock but they are dated Sept 2003. Should I buy the Sept unit or order one of the new "corrected" units. Also what is estimated wait if I order. They quoted 4 - 6 weeks. I have no problem with the 4 - 6 weeks because I really do not need the TV until end of March. Just wondered if this is seemed right.
Thanks in advance.

Originally posted by jjaw
Need some advise. I am wanting to purchase the 60" XBR. A local store has stock but they are dated Sept 2003. Should I buy the Sept unit or order one of the new "corrected" units. Also what is estimated wait if I order. They quoted 4 - 6 weeks. I have no problem with the 4 - 6 weeks because I really do not need the TV until end of March. Just wondered if this is seemed right.
Thanks in advance.

I personally would order one of the new ones, just for greater peace of mind, but the problem is you might not get it by the end of March. So I guess it depends on how badly you "need" it then. I placed my order for the 70" on January 2nd, which is now about 6 weeks ago, and the dealer (CC) still can't give me a delivery date. I've been following up once a week so it's not like they've forgotten about me. The last time I called I let them know that I was not happy and would soon have to consider cancelling my order. In response they did agree to knock off another $250 for the inconvenience, so I will give them a little while longer.

You would think Sony would now be able to catch up with demand, with full production having been resumed (assuming this is in fact the case) so your wait could turn out to be shorter than mine, but then again I was originally told that it would be a 2 to 3 week wait, so you never know.

I was talking to my Sony dealer about the lamp issue and he said the original issue was not anything other than the bulb itself was the problem. Seems the supplier did not meet the proper specs on it for power draw and such and at first they thought the fix was not just a new lamp but also a circuit board upgrade of one of the capacitors. Now all they are doing is sending out a bulb from a different supplier that meets the specs as put forth by Sony.

At least thats what I was told and I have no reason to doubt my installer as he's pretty knowledgable about the Sony stuff. Now we just need to determin the serial break between the old and newer bulb supplier. The bulb replacement is free if you have the old one, Sony will send someone to your house to do it as well.

Originally posted by Corvette6769
Trust me 8.6% off of the 70" XBR is not a good price.

Even 32.8% off list is still above base dealer cost (and even more depending on the additional Sony volume discount program that dealer qualifies for).

Judging from what I paid today for my KDF-70XBR950, unless you are quoted a grand total (including delivery and tax) equal to 18.7% off of Sony's list price, it would not be a good deal from where I sit.

Another factor in the price is also whether you purchase from a B&M store or an online stores. There are quite a few online stores where you can get the 70"XBR 10-20% off but B&Ms are another story.

Especially when these models are so heavily back-ordered and the B&Ms are easily getting the customers for these models.

-Kuntal

So if you buy an "old build" xbr (before Dec 2003) and have the bulb replaced is it the same as the "new build" xbr. Just want to make sure I am understanding this correctly.

Originally posted by jjaw
So if you buy an "old build" xbr (before Dec 2003) and have the bulb replaced is it the same as the "new build" xbr. Just want to make sure I am understanding this correctly.

If you read prior posts in this thread, you will find references to problems far more serious than just a simple bulb change with the Sony KDF-70XBR950 relating to poor geometry, dead pixels, color irregularities, convergence, & etc.

As I posted eariler, I had a chance to buy a factory sealed KDF-70XBR950 that was serial number S019100333, but elected to pay $189 more for the January built unit I received yesterday and have no reservations on my decision, considering the problems others have had with the early production units.

I received my KDF-70XBR950 on 2-19-04 as expected.

Serial number S019102629X was built January 2004.

As far as I can determine so far, my KDF-70XBR950 is everything I expected and perfect in every way!

I intend to do more in depth testing with AVIA Guide to Home Theater, Digital Video Essentials, The Ultimate DVD Platinum, and Sound & Vision Home Theater Tune-Up. I bought all 4 DVD titles for this express reason, but right out of the box it is amazing.

Originally posted by Corvette6769
I received my KDF-70XBR950 on 2-19-04 as expected.

Serial number S019102629X was built January 2004.

As far as I can determine so far, my KDF-70XBR950 is everything I expected and perfect in every way!

I intend to do more in depth testing with AVIA Guide to Home Theater, Digital Video Essentials, The Ultimate DVD Platinum, and Sound & Vision Home Theater Tune-Up. I bought all 4 DVD titles for this express reason, but right out of the box it is amazing.

Corvette, after you've had an opportunity to sample these disks please report back here on your experiences and any tips you might have. I just read a review on the DVE disk that was posted on another thread, and this one would seem to be the best one to buy, but I was wondering if it would be the best option for this particular set.

If you read prior posts in this thread, you will find references to problems far more serious than just a simple bulb change with the Sony KDF-70XBR950 relating to poor geometry, dead pixels, color irregularities, convergence, & etc.

You would find posts specifically about those problems, build quality, etc.. and will continue to as a certain percentage of ANY product will have flaws or not make everyone happy. The only thing I was addressing was the bulb issue and it's cause/fix as it was related directly to me.

Originally posted by Driver
The only thing I was addressing was the bulb issue and it's cause/fix as it was related directly to me.

Driver, I agree with your statement that a certain percentage of ANY product will have flaws or not make everyone happy, however my post was responding to the question posted by jjaw:

Originally posted by jjaw
So if you buy an "old build" xbr (before Dec 2003) and have the bulb replaced is it the same as the "new build" xbr. Just want to make sure I am understanding this correctly.

OK, no problem. I see what you were saying. From what I was told I would assume the board modification they were doing before they knew it was an issue witht he current draw on the bulb is no longer neccessary but as with all products during their build cycle smaller tweaks always happen, newer software , and eproms are doen etc... Wonder if anyone knows about anything significant on that front...

Originally posted by Driver
OK, no problem. I see what you were saying. From what I was told I would assume the board modification they were doing before they knew it was an issue witht he current draw on the bulb is no longer neccessary but as with all products during their build cycle smaller tweaks always happen, newer software , and eproms are doen etc... Wonder if anyone knows about anything significant on that front...

Right now I'm wrestling with whether I want to let the local authorized service center replace just the lamp or the lamp *and* the driver circuit board. I suspect there is nothing wrong with the driver board and I'm not anxious to let someone monkey with it if it isn't broken, but then again if the board has been tweaked since the DEC2003 build date, then it probably wouldn't be a bad thing to have it replaced. Assuming it's easy to replace--anyone know? If the tech is going to have to disassemble the entire set and maybe knock something out of alignment, I'd much rather have him leave it alone.

I posted that my set was exhibiting voice out of sync with my picture a while ago. I still continue to have this problem although it's only on NBC. I do suspect it is a programing issue not something wrong with my set, at least I hope this is the case.

Tonight I was watching Law and Order CI on NBC and the sync was awful. It was bad enough to make me switch to another show. Did anyone notice this tonihgt (Sunday the 22). I sure hope so(this way I know it is not jsut my set again).

If it is NBC's fault do you suppose they are aware they have a problem?

Matt

Law and Order CI seems to be in sync here in Kansas City (70XBR950). It could be your local NBC affiliate.

Originally posted by 20026speed
I posted that my set was exhibiting voice out of sync with my picture a while ago. I still continue to have this problem although it's only on NBC. I do suspect it is a programing issue not something wrong with my set, at least I hope this is the case.

Tonight I was watching Law and Order CI on NBC and the sync was awful. It was bad enough to make me switch to another show. Did anyone notice this tonihgt (Sunday the 22). I sure hope so(this way I know it is not jsut my set again).

If it is NBC's fault do you suppose they are aware they have a problem?

Matt

Perfect sync on L&O CI in Des Moines.

Now, if I could just get the OTA antenna positioned to accept NBC and ABC digital at the same time, I would be happy... :(

I have friends in Tipton (& Kokomo), but I don't know if any of them have HD equipment. I can ask them if you like. I suppose they would get the same signal you do.

speed
More than likely, its you're local affiliate.

Originally posted by 20026speed
I posted that my set was exhibiting voice out of sync with my picture a while ago. I still continue to have this problem although it's only on NBC. I do suspect it is a programing issue not something wrong with my set, at least I hope this is the case.

Tonight I was watching Law and Order CI on NBC and the sync was awful. It was bad enough to make me switch to another show. Did anyone notice this tonihgt (Sunday the 22). I sure hope so(this way I know it is not jsut my set again).

If it is NBC's fault do you suppose they are aware they have a problem?

Matt

Matt:
There is nothing wrong with your set. It's the source material. We had the same problem with law & order here last night too. My source comes from Time Warner cable in Cincinnati.

Have my 60xbr for two weeks now. Dec 03 build, no problems at all. Did not even check the bulb. After experimenting and reading the forums, I found that for viewing SD, an Svid cable connected to one of the non HD inputs and setting the display to 480i and using the letterbox mode gets the best pq. It is definitly sharper than viewing SD on a HD input with the DVI cable. This is using the Dish 921. HD both on sat and ota is amazing. DVD is also awesome, (especially now that I have figured out that you need to set the DVD player to progressive). It is not automatic.

Does anyone have any other suggestions for viewing SD?

Originally posted by beemer58
Does anyone have any other suggestions for viewing SD?

I found that I get the best standard-definition (SD) picture by using the built-in tuner to receive analog cable, thereby bypassing the cable box. I also have digital cable (two boxes: one used exclusively by TIVO, and the second is a Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8000HD hi-def DVR) and the coax from the wall looks marginally better than either of these. If I had to rank SD, it would be:

1. Antenna input connected directly to cable outlet

2. Digital cable box, through TIVO (S-Video)

3. Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8000HD via component inputs (the DVI output doesn't work yet, but will in a month when the firmware is updated again)

Also, the Explorer8000 in hidef mode (i.e. "CSI Miami") is noticeably softer than the same program received over-the-air--I did make sure the settings are the same. If I understand things correctly, this signal is going through a D2A (digital to component) conversion, and then an A2D conversion in the set. But I previously had the Explorer 3250HD cable box, used the DVI connector (thereby avoiding conversions, I think) and the cable-box picture looked the same. All the sources are 1080i so conversion isn't a factor.

All this said, the hidef differences are subtle and the picture looks great from either hidef source. And while the antenna input may look a little better than the TIVO-sourced input, the convenience of TIVO (ability to pause live TV) more than makes up for the degradation, although there are times when I'll watch the tuner input with TIVO on the same channel and switch to TIVO when the need to pause actually comes up.

I never did get an answer to my question about whether using a progressive scan DVD player was better than connecting the player using its non-progressive scan component outputs and letting the TV do the Cinemotion thing. I'm planning on trying that the next time I disassemble my equipment cabinet. I did try an older DVD player that doesn't have progressive scan or component outputs--connnected it with S-Video and enabled Cinemotion. The image was very good but I did see more dot crawl--I can't be certain if it was the DVD player and if my newer player with component outputs would be better, or if this is just as good as it gets without a progressive scan connection.

Thanks all for responding on the sync isssue,

I think I'll try to get in touch with the local affiliate to see if they are aware they have a sync problem.

...and Countz, thanks for offering to see if your bud in Kokomo had trouble with ysnc. I think it's a different affiliate he picks up there but sure ask him anyway.

I have had my set now for about thirty days and here's my 30 day eval...

As far as the bulb issue...I have a January 2004 build date. My TV comes on with no problems. The bulb makes no noise. It comes on after 3 to 6 red flashes. Only once did the bulb come on after 7 flashes. (this morning it came on after only 2 flashes). However, to see how long it would take to come on after shuting it off then imidiately turning it back on, the set took about 20 flashes to come on. I understand this is normal though. I did do a proper break in of my bulb/set after unpacking and turning it on for the first time. I also only turn my set on if I am going to watch it for more than 30 mns. Additionaly, I only turn the set back on after it has had a proper cool down cycle on the bulb which is about 25 to 30 mns.


As for the fan issues...My fan is extremly quite. I can't hear it at all with any type of volume settings (low or high) while watching a show. It is inperceptable. The only time I can hear it is with the volume turned completly off and even then I have to get behind the TV itself with my ear close to the exhaust area to even percieve it.

As for the pixel issues... I posted last month that after receiving my new set, after only a three week wait from circuit city here in Indianapolis, that I had 12 stuck pixels. Well they haven't increased in number. I can only see them if I go hunting for them and get within 10 to 12 inches from the panel. HOwever, I am uncomfortable with this many stuck pixels and circuit city true to their return/exchange policy already has a brand new replacement set on order for me. The manager asked me only one question: "what's wrong with it", to which I replied wtih, "12 stuck pixels and would like a replacement set", to which he replied "sure no problem".

As far as the screen door issue...Yes I see it on really, really bright sceans or bright white backrounds, but again only if I hunt for it. What I do is think of it as though its just shimmer from watching a movie on a giant "silver" screen. Now I don't mind it at all and don't focus on it. Again I hardly ever see it now.

As far as blacks are concerned...yes, they are not midnight, midnight black but with the proper room lighting it's almost there. You can adjust the brightness and contrast setting to compensate as well. Yes, the DLP sets out there have just a shade darker blacks but what this sony gives up in blacks over the DLP's or even CRT's more than makes up for in total picture quality. What good is having 'right on' midnight blacks when the rest of the colors and picture are lacking.

This set is amazing and I am happy with my set. I hope the replacemnet set has no more than a couple bad pixels, I can live with a couple. I also feel as though my decision to pay a little extra and purchase it at a place with a great exchange/refund policy was a good investment. Had I purchased it over the net or a less reputable store I might not have been able to get a replacement this easy. They would have tried to repair it first or I might be facing restocking or reshiping fees.

All in all, I am extremly happy with my purchase.

Matt

beemer58,

I too have the 60xbr, and would like to know if you have the svid cables hooked up through a hd-cable box, which also is hooked up to the tv with component cables for the hd-channels. Also, could you tell me how to change the display to 480i for SD viewing only without changing the display for the other HD channels?

Note, I understand that the 60xbr has it's own progressive scan ability which may be superior to your dvd player's. This I believe is the DRC Mode: CineMotion 3-2 pulldown process.

Thanks

cdnscg,
Unfortunately I have not found a way yet to set the display mode for each input. I don't know if it can be done. Maybe someone in the forum could help with this. I have to reset when I switch inputs. Where is that setting for the Cinemotion? I have the HD hooked up to the Dish 921 box with DVI, which on the 60xbr is input 7.
The svid is hooked up to input 4 on the tv which is an sd input, and to the 921 svid output. The dvd player is connected through the surround receiver with component and from surround to tv (input 6) with component.

beemer58,

The CineMotion is 1 of 3 items available under 'Advanced Video', 'DRC Mode'. Look on page 89 of your manual. Note, DRC Mode's are not available for 480p, 720p, and 1080i. Therefore if your dvd player is on progressive scan (480p) you will not be able to access these. Try disabling the progressive scan on your dvd player to see the Advanced Video/DRC Mode items. Or just look at them while watching SD which you have hooked up through SVid.

As for changing the disply image to 480i, what do you mean? Is it that you believe the SD through SVid cables will produce a 480i image? Your tv will still up convert the 480i signal to the tv's native 788p.

I understand you have the component and SVid cables going from your 921 dish to the tv. I will have to try this with my cable box to see if there is some improvement on the SD channels. They look pretty bad right now, as I am watching all channels via a component cable from the cable box to the tv.

Corvette6769 says that a minimum of of 18.7% off of list (delivered including tax) is required to get a good deal. At a national advertised price of $6999 you would have to pay $5691 to meet this requirement. Purchasing locally, with an average sales tax of 8%, means the dealer had to sell this item for roughly $5269. The national average COGS for one of the largest retailers in the US is $5018. No legitimate dealer can sell you this unit at that price. Getting the unit from an authorized retailer, delivered and including tax for a grand total of $6999 is a good deal.