How are the GWII LCD sets out there holding up? I have the 50 inch GWII XBR set with 3021 hours now and no problems. No bulb failures, dead pixels or LCD browning yet. Exception or rule?

Mine is still going strong as well, about 10 months old now. I've done most of the UMR tweaks and am still in awe at the picture quality. No dead pixels (other than the ones it had when it arrived, which I can't see from more than a foot away anyway), color looks good to me (white looks about as white as my 6500K backlight). Still using the original bulb as well. I'm very happy with it and consider it one of my best purchases.

B.t.w. where do you get the hours on the bulb? Somewhere in the SM? Couldn't find it in mine.

-Rob-

Mine very strong and loving every minute of it! You have to enter the service menu to see the hours on the bulb. Dead pixels--Yes when it arrived but not seeing it at a viewing distance.

In the service menu, cycle through the catagories and you will see a page with time and bulb temperature. I was suprised at how high the number was. It averaged out to 7.2 hours a day. I shoud get a life.

Glad you started this thread. I have a GWii 60". No pixel problems, turns on every time. Great picture. I wanted to post a reply in the GWIII buzz problem thread that I was glad to have bought the 2nd gen product, but I didn't want to piss off anyone. I know I'd be very upset if I had a GWIII with the power on problem and unable to get it fixed.

Originally posted by NightHawk
In the service menu, cycle through the catagories and you will see a page with time and bulb temperature. I was suprised at how high the number was. It averaged out to 7.2 hours a day. I shoud get a life.

Or sue your cable company http://www.wisinfo.com/thereporter/news/archive/local_14044768.shtml:D

My GWII 60" will be a year old next week. It is performing perfectly!!

I have done all the UMR tweaks except the color correction filter. How many of you have done this tweak and were you happy witht the results?

I've had the 50"GW for about 9 months with about 1500 hours on it.

Once the picture tilt was fixed by shimming the optical block 6 months ago, it has been excellent. No visible pixel problems and the screen colour is uniform.

Most of UMR's tweaks done except for gray scale using AVIA. Looks just fine.

Very happy with my purchase.

Originally posted by Foxbat121
Or sue your cable company http://www.wisinfo.com/thereporter/news/archive/local_14044768.shtml:D

That's too funny. At least I can blame the high time partly on the kid. Also the girlfrield keeps leaving it on just so music channel titles scroll past.:mad:

I was thinking of stocking up on a spare bulb. Anyone know where to order one from and how much they cost?

Nighthawk - Be aware that Sony warranty begins on date of purchase. If you buy a replacement bulb and it sits on your shelf until you need it, the warranty period has been running. If you have a problem with the new bulb, it may be out of warranty when you install it. Just FYI and YMMV.

Well my GWII is doing just fine! When I first got it I had a bad LCD panel (Green patch) upper left corner of screen. Sony replaced the Optical block at a cost of $4,897.67CDN. I lucked out with the new Optical block installed have 0 stuck or bad pixels even looking up close at the set!


I have done all of UMR tweaks minus color correction filter. With great success.

Total hours 2789 and counting.


I think the main reason Sony is having problems with the GWIII is that some of the parts used in the new sets are not as high quality as the GWII, they had to do this to bring down the price point of the t.v

Mazdaspeedguy,

Was your green patch visible on on bright scenes or just black? I have a small green patch in my lower right corner, but it's only visible on completely dark scenes. Should I call Sony? I have a GWIII.

Marc.

6 months, no issues. Not one.
No tilt, no green splotches.no dead picles. On for about 8 hours per day (mixed viewing of dvd ,video games and SDTV.)

Mine is 6 months old and the bulb went out three weeks ago & I am still waiting for Sony Service to put in a new bulb. I am quite upset with the warranty service since it has been since Dec. 24th when they came to my house.

Originally posted by Marc D Carra
Mazdaspeedguy,

Was your green patch visible on on bright scenes or just black? I have a small green patch in my lower right corner, but it's only visible on completely dark scenes. Should I call Sony? I have a GWIII.

Marc.


Yes mine was only visible on a black screen or on dark movies.

I would either request a new set or just get the new Optical block from Sony.

You need to get the whole Optical block because you can not just replace the bad LCD panel in question.

No problems ~2500 hours. I have done ALL of the umr tweaks.:D

About a month ago I noticed the image revision was off on my set. I know for a fact not long before I noticed it, it was perfect.. I've always had it on 3. Something happened to make the change. I did have a power outage not long before this happened though. hummm?

Auto, 2 & 3 all looked the same. I had to go into the service menu and readjust it.( thank you again UMR) It looks just fine now. Everything else has been great since I got it. The bulb is at 5200 hrs now.

I don't feel bad one bit for not waiting untill this years models came out.:D

UMR!!!

Where can i get the LATEST copy of the GWII tweaks? the link in the old thread isn't working!

What's the rated bulb life on the GWII?

Originally posted by nyrjoe
What's the rated bulb life on the GWII?


8000hrs

I've read here the GWIII bulb life is rated for 2000. It uses the XL2100U, is the same as the GWII?

Thanks

Nope. The GWII uses the XL2000U.

Still going strong (knock on wood) they seem to be holding up better than GWIII's.

Congrats guys! Its good to see a thread like this.

Was there a GW1 or first gen of this set? Are there any owners?

Got my 60" unit when they first came out fall of 2002. For those of you who bought units with me, hope you are all doing well and the sets are holding up ok.

Haven't had any problems at all with the unit, probably not more than 1000 hours on it. Doesn't snap, crackle, or pop at all. Yes, some bad pixels, can't see them at a distance. So far I have been very happy and very satisfied, that is until I saw the new 70" model, and decided I really want one of those. Maybe next year.

Anyway, we seem to be having better luck with the GWII's than these new models. I do remember watching the board for problems last year when the people started buying the sets, and there really wasn't many problems, other than people upset over bad pixels, and splotches of color. Otherwise, it has been all quite on the GWII front.

Hopefully, these will last many, many years.....

Oh, yea, still on the first buld, unlike the unlucky Sammy owners. I am not stockpiling bulbs.

Anyone remember how long the factory warranty on these are?? Is it 2 or 3 years since they are Grand Wegas??

Anyone with a first generation GWI?? Remember, when they first came out they listed around $8999 then dropped down to $7999. Wow, times change.

Originally posted by MChilli
Anyone remember how long the factory warranty on these are?? Is it 2 or 3 years since they are Grand Wegas??
1 year warranty.

I've had it since Jan 2003, still has the "wow" factor. No problems. Have applied UMR tweaks, except white balance and filter. I bought an extended warranty with it from Audio King, now Ultimate Electronics.

Has anybody bought a backup bulb? If so, where, and how much?

I just purchased a 60XBR800 floor model in Dec 2003. Considering the mounting problems with the GWIII I concluded that the GWII models were a lot more stable. I also had a very good price and negotiated my way out of paying any tax in addition to the already huge discount. Bulb meter was just over 3000 hrs so the unit has been working solidly for about a year now. Only found one stuck blue pixel that is not noticable unless your nose is up to the screen. Applied the enhancement tweaks by UMR and adjusted the GAMM level between 7 to 10 with better contrast results and set the color temperature to warm to remove the blue hue on blacks with the other temperature settings. I am very happy with my set and have absolutely no regrets buying the XBR GWII!

Browsers of this thread may be interested to know that Crutchfield has the 60xbr800 for sale for $4300 & free shipping. Mine's on the way; for now the search for the elusive tweak file continues in earnest, though who knows I may be satisfied w/just new gamma and a filter...

Originally posted by Laserfan
Browsers of this thread may be interested to know that Crutchfield has the 60xbr800 for sale for $4300 & free shipping. Mine's on the way; for now the search for the elusive tweak file continues in earnest, though who knows I may be satisfied w/just new gamma and a filter...

This one?

Originally posted by dj81462
This one? Wow, 21 mins for a response! What took you so long? :D

Many thanks dj!

Can you or someone here tell me plz what are the width & depth of the BASE for the 60xbr800? Need to buy a stand & don't like the sugw1.

Thanks again!

Originally posted by Laserfan
Can you or someone here tell me plz what are the width & depth of the BASE for the 60xbr800? Need to buy a stand & don't like the sugw1.

Thanks again!


Here ya go!!!!!

Originally posted by Laserfan
Wow, 21 mins for a response! What took you so long? :D

Many thanks dj!

Can you or someone here tell me plz what are the width & depth of the BASE for the 60xbr800? Need to buy a stand & don't like the sugw1.


Thanks again!

The base dimensions are on the first page of the tweak file.

I bought stand from Best Buy on-line. 58" wide and looks good too. Shipping weight is wrong, this stand weighs about 150lbs. UPS was pissed when they delivered it because it ships with a 59lb sticker so they take it. Shipping was free.

Bush Stand (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=1060605669796&skuId=5902302&type=product)

I bought my kf60xbr800 (gwII) about 3 weeks ago. I was debating if I should have got the gwiii model but after reading all the issues that the gwiii models are having, i'm glad I got the gwii. No problems yet.

Oh, I bought the thing before reading up on it here. Plus the discount on the set was excellent.

I took delivery of mine November 16th, 2002. Still doing great, knock on wood. I think these XBR sets are just phenomenal. The GWII was the third iteration in the same physical chassis, so it's not surprising that it's pretty solidly executed. Glad to see that people stirring up controversy and FUD were proved wrong!


Ron

Originally posted by dj81462
The base dimensions are on the first page of the tweak file.

I bought stand from Best Buy on-line. 58" wide and looks good too. Shipping weight is wrong, this stand weighs about 150lbs. UPS was pissed when they delivered it because it ships with a 59lb sticker so they take it. Shipping was free.

Bush Stand (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=1060605669796&skuId=5902302&type=product) I bought this base today:

http://www.circuitcity.com/detail.jsp?c=1&b=g&qp=0&bookmark=bookmark_0&oid=74579&catoid=-9798

It's shorter and shallower than the other stand, which BB didn't have anyway. CC was showing a 70" GWIII on it; turns out its max weight is given as 117lbs--I thought the 70 would be at least as heavy as the 60xbr800.

So I might have to reinforce it somehow to help-out the tempered glass shelf (a good 3/8" thick) since I'm almost 30lbs overweight.

BTW can't find the base dimensions in the tweak file dj--did your attachment include everything...

Edit: oops just noticed CouchPotato's post, thanks...

Originally posted by Couch Patato
Here ya go!!!!! What a nice doc, thanks! Makes me wonder what other goodies might be available on the xbr800 series?

I've Googled for stuff, and the Service Manuals seem to have disappeared--does anyone know of an enthusiast's site, or ftp site, that has more of this kind of stuff?

Originally posted by Laserfan


Can you or someone here tell me plz what are the width & depth of the BASE for the 60xbr800? Need to buy a stand & don't like the sugw1.

Thanks again!

I bought one of these stands for my 60xbr800 at circuit city.


I think it looks pretty good.

ok, I can't post urls until i reach my 5th post :mad:

Go to circuit city's website and search for

Gusdorf 36" Television Stand
Brand/Model: GUS 13521

I made the mistake of purchasing the Sony Stand for the GW II. Its solid, and it's nice, but it doesn't have enough room for all my components. (I had to store my dvd changer in an $30 Walmart special.)

Originally posted by Laserfan
I bought this base today:

http://www.circuitcity.com/detail.jsp?c=1&b=g&qp=0&bookmark=bookmark_0&oid=74579&catoid=-9798

BTW can't find the base dimensions in the tweak file dj--did your attachment include everything...

Edit: oops just noticed CouchPotato's post, thanks...

It's there. Under the front view diagram is the bottom view diagram. The base is right about 38 3/4" X 21 3/8th's"

Originally posted by Couch Patato
It's there. Under the front view diagram is the bottom view diagram. The base is right about 38 3/4" X 21 3/8th's" Hmm, there are no diagrams at all on the doc I have (gwtweak090603.pdf) from the earlier dj post. Wonder what I'm missing...

One year old gwII 50 xbr, 3200 hrs, flawless.

Originally posted by Laserfan
Hmm, there are no diagrams at all on the doc I have (gwtweak090603.pdf) from the earlier dj post. Wonder what I'm missing...

He meant to get this doc...

Originally posted by jbaraga


Has anybody bought a backup bulb? If so, where, and how much?

Bought a bulb in November from Vance Baldwin Electronics

XL2000U - $200 + $7.53 shipping to Missouri

Took over 6 weeks to get it delivered, they were out of stock.


Heino Pull

My GWII is 11 months old. I did the UMR tweaks and the set is still flawless in every respect. To my eyes it is just as bright as the day I bought it. After being wowed by my GWII, a friend and my father, both bought GWIIIs. They are both 3 months old and have NO turn on, noticeable dead pixels, or buzzing problems.

I also recommended the Samsung DLP to two friends that were concerned about the Sony's lack of black levels. They are both having lip sync problems with their 1 month old sets.

Has anyone with a heavily-used GWII noticed the "LCD panel degradation" that that hokey TI study inicated? I sincerely doubt it, but I'm curious nonetheless. For those who aren't aware, this TI study was of front projectors, and they found (under suspicious testing conditions) that the LCD panels lost color, especially blue, after heavy use.

My floor model GWII has a lamp time of about 3200 hours. I don't see any LCD panel degradations or color loss. Before purchasing this floor model I compared the PQ with the newer 60WE610 model with the same video source (units side by side). I could not see any difference in PQ except the XBR800 had a little bit more of a sharper image, but that could be related to the picture mode settings. I did research some of the dis/advantages of LCD projection technology and DLP from this website.

http://www.projectorpoint.co.uk/ProjectorLCDvsDLP.htm

Disadvantages of LCD
Chicken wire effect causing the image to look more pixellated.

Generally more bulky, as there are more internal components.

'Dead Pixels' - Pixels can become permanently on or permanently off, while this is barely noticeable with one dead pixel, if the projector develops multiple dead pixels it can be a irritation.

LCD panels can fail, and are very expensive to replace. DLP chips can also fail but as there are fewer parts in a DLP projector this is relatively rare.

I've had mine about 7 months and it's going strong. No problems what so ever. I just bought all my stuff to build my HTPC. I can't wait to watch some WMV-HD content on it. I have been reading all day the various DVI HTPC GWIII threads and about the 1304x734 res people have been using. I hope it will work the same for my XBR800. :D

My GWII 50 (since 6/03) seems to be fine- save for a couple things.
Static hum from fan area - (not fan mechanics) can be heard -must turn volume up 12 or so clicks to drown out. Hum goes away bout 10 seconds after shut off (and before fan stops). Ideas?
Set continues to make cracking sounds (even when off). Few dead- but not noticeable pixels.

Quick question: Originally purchased set in March 03- but returned 1st two (circuit city) because of pixel issues. Will Sony honor the 6/03 or 3/03 purchase for warranty? SHould I have them take a look at hum issue?

thanks.


GO PATS!

Originally posted by TheGloucesterman
Quick question: Originally purchased set in March 03- but returned 1st two (circuit city) because of pixel issues. Will Sony honor the 6/03 or 3/03 purchase for warranty? SHould I have them take a look at hum issue?
IMO, Sony will only honor what's on the receipt. You should have gotten a new receipt each time you got a replacement; if so, they will honor 6/03. If you didn't get a new receipt, you might be able to get one from the store.

Even when one initially receives a TV, one should get a new receipt with the delivery date on it, to rightfully get the full one year warranty.

My 60 GWII was delivered on December 31, 2002. Most UMR tweaks have been applied. The set is still going strong with no apparent degradation. I couldn't be happier.
Question: Other than replacing the bulb, have there been any reported problems associated with heavy usage? Does anyone have any experience with repairs outside the factory/extended warranty? Is there any reason to believe I cannot go on enjoying this set for years, subject to having to replace the bulb?

Originally posted by TheGloucesterman
[BSet continues to make cracking sounds (even when off).

GO PATS! [/B]

I noticed this also! Seems the plastic cabniet lets out a loud crack randomly. Wierd but apparently harmless.

Originally posted by hrpull
Bought a bulb in November from Vance Baldwin Electronics

XL2000U - $200 + $7.53 shipping to Missouri

Took over 6 weeks to get it delivered, they were out of stock.


Heino Pull

Wow - out of stock! Have people been stockpiling these, or are few released for public consumption? Has anyone had to change their bulb yet?

If you need a bulb, call this number: 1-800-488-7669. This is Sony's Kansas City Parts & Manuals toll free number. They should always have the bulbs in stock.

Originally posted by Nullman
For anyone interested. I put a few pictures up of my TV (50XBR800) playing Finding Nemo (which still blows me away) and Project Gotham Racing 2 on Xbox.

The DVD is playing on a Bravo D1 via DVI (D1 set to 720p), all of UMR's tweaks other than color filter, which I just received BTW. The pictures were taken with a cheapy Nikon CoolPics 2100, but they look great!


you can find them here: www.xboxphreaker.com

Looks great!, is Project Gotham Racing a 720P game?

Originally posted by XBRSteve
Looks great!, is Project Gotham Racing a 720P game?

Actually no. It's 480p with widescreen support. It does have some nice full screen antialiasing going on though. :)

Hard to believe it's been 14 months already. Can't imagine being denied a year's worth of HDTV and DVD enjoyment with this 60" baby just to hold out for one of the current models. And I know I'm biased, but I much prefer the GWII's chassis over any of the GWIIIs.

I received my 50" on 4/7/03. I had loved every minute of it until last Friday 1/23/04 when the lamp blew out. I'm not bitter though, I knew what I was getting into thanks to all the wonderful members at AVS FORUM:)

Here's what it took to get it fixed:
1) Since I am still within the one year warranty, I called the 800 number on the user manual. A nice operator took the information and gave me a 'file #' to reference for the problem. Since this was a Sony Employee Purchase (which I got through a friend of a friend) the operator informed me that she would send the case to the department that handles service for the employees...I didn't tell her I wasn't an employee. She explained that I would be called within 24 business hours, which I took to mean three business days.

2) On Wednesday 1/28/04 (three business days later) I hadn't yet received a call so I called back the 800 number on the user manual. The operator that took my call this time actually asked if I was an employee. I told him the truth...I figured they would know anyway. He told me to call 'Sony Factory Service In Home' at 866-443-7116. I could have gotten mad and complained about not being told to call this number last Friday, but I figured that would accomplish nothing.

3) I called the 866 # and waited on hold for about 15 minutes. When I got a live body, I was told the earliest date they could send someone to service the television would be February 18th, or I could call one of the authorized sony service providers in my area. Needless to say, I chose the latter. I was also told to have my proof of delivery date (4/7/04) handy to give to the service guy for warranty purposes.

4) I called the closest of the four service providers I was given (AVS in Culver City, CA 310-306-4600). They asked if I had proof of the purchase/delivery date, which I do in the form of the packing slip and the delivery company's receipt with the truck drivers signature and date. I was told they had the part (XL-2000U) in stock and it could be handled that afternoon. Great:) Andy from AVS arrived right on time (one hour window), did some basic QA about the problem, went to his truck, got the lamp, put it in. All fixed, no charge:D Andy also told me I could buy the lamp from him next time it goes out. It's so great working with local mom-and-pop outfits where you talk to real people who care about their customers.

The worst part of the experience was listening to the wife complain about paying $2500 for a piece-o-junk and then complain further about the 19" Toshiba stand-in. She even threatened me that she would be writing a letter to Sony's legal department (She's a Paralegal). She still can't believe we are going to have to spend the cost of new TV ($200) every time the lamp goes out. Even though someone in this forum suggested against buying a lamp and keeping it handy (because the warranty period of 90 days starts at purchase date), I think I will just so I don't have to here it from the wife next time.

I hope this little story helps other members understand some of the process. If you live in the West Los Angeles area, I highly recommend AVS in Culver City.

My first post, thanks again for everyone at AVS for making my life easier!

How many hours were on the lamp when it blew?

My 50" GWII lived thru 2 rapid electrical power failures 2 nights ago. This first happened after the set was on for a couple of hours. The power came back on after about a minute, the set powered up on its own for about 30 secs and then the electricity failed again for about an hour.

I expected the worst from the TV and my computer but all seems well 2 days later. A good argument to get a couple of UPS units.

It looks like I now have 2346 hours? Here's what the service menu looks like:

OPTION-E 0 0
LAMP TIME
TEMP 28DEG 02346

I'm assuming the '02346' is the # of hours. Since the lamp was replaced three days ago, I guess the lamp went out with just over 2300 hours.


exLabDriver, I have mine on a UPS. So far I've had one power outage and the TV kept going. Also, the UPS kicks in maybe two times a month (I hear it beep) which I can only guess that there is a slight drop in voltage. Anyway, I feel better knowing the power surges aren't getting to the TV
:)

With just 2300 hours it should have been replaced under warranty. I'm glad they did. That's sucks that it blew so soon.

When you first fired the TV up when it was new. How long did you leave it on? There has been speculation that the bulb needs or should be broken in to insure long life by leaving the set turned on for quite a few hours the first time it's turned on.

I myself followd this line and left the set on for more than 36 hours before turning it off. I'm up to around 5400 hours now.

I'm going to keep track of what people have done to see if there is any unscientifc proof to the break in of the bulb.

Put me down for helping prove this theory. I wasn't aware of the myth, but I think I am a believer:( I don't remember how long I had it on the first time, but I'm sure I didn't leave it on more than a couple hours.

You think it's too late for the new bulb? Again, I probably only left the TV on for a couple hours after the bulb was replaced.

Originally posted by Couch Patato
With just 2300 hours it should have been replaced under warranty. I'm glad they did. That's sucks that it blew so soon.

When you first fired the TV up when it was new. How long did you leave it on? There has been speculation that the bulb needs or should be broken in to insure long life by leaving the set turned on for quite a few hours the first time it's turned on.

I myself followd this line and left the set on for more than 36 hours before turning it off. I'm up to around 5400 hours now.

I'm going to keep track of what people have done to see if there is any unscientifc proof to the break in of the bulb.

umm.. aren't "major" equipment supposed to be broken in first as a general rule..?

computers, mp3 players.. even headphones (although it's more to enhance sound quality for the 'phones)... tv's!

i know i have a personal rule.. whenever i get something major tv/dvd/computer.. i leave it running 24 hours straight..

if it performs without a hitch for 24-48 hours.. it's a workhorse if it fails.. dud

throughout everything ib uy i've thankfully encountered this only once (my mp3 player) which died within 2 days :p thankfully no tv/computer/dvd player/receive/etc has given me problems.. it kinda makes me wonder why i'm buying a gwiii knowing it's a dud

i seriously, seriously, do not know what's wrong with me.. why buy something with such a history of failure :confused: i do not know..

FYI,
My 6 months old set with 1700 hours on it blew a bulb just before Christmas and it took 5 1/2 weeks to have it replaced under warranty. I have ordered another bulb ($200.00 plus delivery charge) to have on hand for the next time the bulb goes and so far it hasn't been delivered and the order is now 3 weeks old.

Originally posted by otosan
Put me down for helping prove this theory. I wasn't aware of the myth, but I think I am a believer:( I don't remember how long I had it on the first time, but I'm sure I didn't leave it on more than a couple hours.

You think it's too late for the new bulb? Again, I probably only left the TV on for a couple hours after the bulb was replaced.

Did you turn it off and on again in less than 30 minutes very often? I believe bulb life is more a function of how often it is started and if it was allowed to cool off properly.

I've had the 42" GWIII for three months (Nov. '03 build date). No problems with it at all. I have a few dead pixels that are invisible unless I smash my grill up to the screen in a dark room. My fingers are definitely crossed, however.

Originally posted by heavyd
I've had the 42" GWIII ....

This is a GWII thread.

UMR, I couldn't tell you how often I've only had the TV on for 30 minutes or less, but it can't be too many. We turn it on when we wake (it stays on until we leave for work, about 90 minutes) and when we get home from work until we go to bed (about 6 hours). Sure, we turn it on/off at dinner time (sometimes) or on the weekend when we leave the house, but I can't imagine we are any harder it than other self respecting TV junkies.

I do believe the original bulb was sub-standard in some way. Both my wife and I know that the picture was never as bright as it is now with the new bulb. e.g. We can play HALO with the blinds open during the day now lying on the floor (non-optimal viewing angle). Before new the bulb, HALO was only playable in darkened room while seated on the sofa. Both senarios are with Vivid picture mode.

BTW, thanks for all the great info. I wouldn't have bought this unit if I hadn't seen some of your posts. especially your list of pros and cons:)

UMR, forgot about your second point. I have the TV plugged into a UPS, so I never have a situation where the power is lost before the fan stops cooling.

Originally posted by otosan
UMR, forgot about your second point. I have the TV plugged into a UPS, so I never have a situation where the power is lost before the fan stops cooling.

It is not just the fan. Starting the bulb is apparently stressful. I do not turn mine off if I will be watching it again within 30 minutes. This avoids restarting it while it still could be hot.

UMR,
I have to admit the GWII despite being only 6 months old when the bulb blew, it was turned on and off very often because of the number of people in my house who would come & go. They have been advised to leave the set on if they think anyone would be turning the set back on in the next 30 minutes.

Hmm, 30 minute shutdown, reminds me of working with Windows NT Server:o I know our household will never be disciplined enough, so I'm going to see if my remote (Sony RM-AV3000) has a 30 minute delay that I can program into my OFF macro. Thanks again.

I have read reports of people getting 8000+ hours on the original version of these TV's. Read about it here.

http://www.thebigpicturedvd.com/dcforum/DCForumID26/958.shtml

Yeah, I love how most everyone forgets that the Grand Wega series started life in the late 90s as the KL-W9000. There are members in this forum stating similar experiences. I just did a search using the value "KL-W9000" and the first hit is from a member claiming 7 years of faithful service on the original bulb.

All this FUD people are trying to create about LCD is unfounded. The GWIIs are the 3rd iteration of that original design, and I think they're going to last.



Ron

What are the steps to get ino the GWII Service Menu?

Originally posted by Dimensions
What are the steps to get ino the GWII Service Menu?

It's somewhere in here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=196558&highlight=umr+does+gwii). :o :)

Ok- still trolling for a reply on my loud GWII- electro-static hum from rear right panel of set. It is not the fan itself, but audible from time set comes on until few seconds after I turn it off. (The fan stops a few moments later.) This condition has developed over past few months (on 9 month old set).

Ideas? -I am still waiting from Sony on reply.

Also, I continue to have loud cracks from plastic (expansion/contraction?)... both when set is on and off - at random times...

Can anyone identify?


Thanks.

Originally posted by TheGloucesterman
....Also, I continue to have loud cracks from plastic (expansion/contraction?)... both when set is on and off - at random times...

Can anyone identify?


Thanks.

This is common I would not worry about it.

I have just over 1500 hrs on my GWWII. I have done all of UMR's tweaks except the color filter (waiting on delivery) and some of my own. This set can be fantastic if you are willing to spend some late nights with the wife and kids sound asleep learning the service menu and the associated tweaks. No problems.

Originally posted by Marc D Carra
Mazdaspeedguy,

Was your green patch visible on on bright scenes or just black? I have a small green patch in my lower right corner, but it's only visible on completely dark scenes. Should I call Sony? I have a GWIII.

Marc.

My 42" just developed a small green patch in the center, again only visible on completely dark screens. I'l calling for service.

-Chad

Got my 60" before SuperBowl 37 last year. Had been looking at big screen HDTV's for 3 years. Weekend sale at Now AV sealed the deal with 2 years same as cash, 5 year warranty and 2 lamp replacements. Just downloaded the tweaks. May pay video tech I know to do this and check with DVE. He has some instrument for measuring/testing fixed pixel displays. No noticeable pixels bad or stuck. Do hear the "cracks or pops" of the case work while set is on for more than 30 minutes. Newbies are awed. I want bigger but I guess will wait out the warranty and technology for a while. Just finished Matrix Reload on Pioneer 563a and was very impressed. Not as impressed with picture from T3 on same player last night. Will check against Marantz DV8400. DVI from this machine did not look as good as component. Colorimitry(sp) way off. Glad to hear i made the right decision on this purchase. I think the Sammy DLP's look better but I saw the rainbow on a DLP projector and at the time (Dec 03), Sammy 50 was biggest available in my local and salesman wouldn't even demo the set, they were afraid of it, 9000 rpm color wheel (?) As an engineer, I make it a rule not to be around anything spinning faster than 1800rpm. First 60" tv of any sort that would go up my stairs and make the turn to my HT room. Cheers.

I've had my new 60xbr800 for a couple weeks now and am very pleased with it. My instant reactions:

- The "dirty little secret" of HDTVs is that bad signals look REALLY bad when blown-up on a great TV like this one!
- HDTV (in my case a Hughes HTL-HD grabbing OTA signals) is spectacular
- As an aside, the Sony's VHF tuner is wildly better than the Hughes; maybe a problem w/my HTL-HD?
- Settings make a big difference--I've only made the User tweaks so far but their impact is dramatic
- Don't understand those who dislike the low-reflectivity screen. Looks great to me/does the job well
- I had to look real hard for bad pixels (i.e. from a few inches away). When I found one finally I decided not to look for any more! I can see no flaws from my seating position (about 11 feet)
- It was interesting to watch the Super Bowl and be able to see every flaw in every camera they used; this set is relentless in "showing the source"

Maybe "pleased" was the wrong word. I'm thrilled with the SET, but it does so well that I'm increasingly critical of flaws in the image-delivery chain.

Last night a lightning storm came thru, and I stupidly pulled the Sony's power cord immediately after powering down. Realizing my mistake I turned it on-and-off again to get the fan to run for normal cool-down. Does anyone know/have an opinion on whether the proximity of the lamp to the LCD panels is such that the lamp would destroy the LCDs?

I saw an expensive LCD projector quickly ruined a few yrs ago by someone pulling the plug on it before the lamp had cooled...

Have enjoyed this and umr's tweak threads; posting mostly to "bump" it and to say "I love that I've joined the club"!

After earlier reporting here my total satisfaction with my 15-month old GWII, a series of green blobs have just cropped up (some have called them crop circles) in the screen. Major culprit seems to be dust on LCD panels. Here are some threads reporting similar GWII/III issues:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=346599

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=350368

For me they appear as a trail of overlapping quarter-sized green circles spanning about four inches. Will be utilizing my extended warranty -- thank goodness I have it.

I've had my 60" since last Feb. Bought it from CC with 2yr Warr. Since Jan 12 the TV has problems turning on. At times it hasn't come back on for 3 days. Red light will blink for about 100 times and then go to lamp light which will blink some more and then all turns off. Called CC and their local service people say that the bulb is going, so they ordered one,but it's on backorder. Last night it would not turn on, but did this morning. I have no idea how many hours it has. Is that what happens when the bulb is going or are they barking up the wrong tree?

Just found some info, so I checked the lamp hours. I have 2871 hours.

That dosen't sound like a blown bulb.

Originally posted by jimmyjames8
As an engineer, I make it a rule not to be around anything spinning faster than 1800rpm.

Must take forever to get anywhere if you never rev your car's engine past 1800 rpm. Hope that at least you stay out of the left lane...... :D

I was afraid someone would say that. The service tech said that if the lamp light goes on at all, it's the bulb. I have a feeling he doesn't know this TV. Well still waiting for the bulb. The backorder date has come and gone.

In addition to the electrostatic hum coming from fan area (not the fan itself), I now notice there is a somewhat faint vertical bar on right side of picture, when viewing material in 4:3. The ghost-like bar appears to be reddish/orange in color. It is about 1/2 inch thick. This seems to be a recent development. (I have had the set for about 8-9 months).

Ideas?

Though I very much like the GWII's picture quality- I have definitely NOT been impressed with Sony's quality control. For a $4000 set, I expect more.

Not to mention Sony techs who have no idea how to fix the set... any recommendations for Sony warranty techs for the NoVA / DC area?

THX

Originally posted by TheGloucesterman
In addition to the electrostatic hum coming from fan area (not the fan itself), I now notice there is a somewhat faint vertical bar on right side of picture, when viewing material in 4:3. The ghost-like bar appears to be reddish/orange in color. It is about 1/2 inch thick. This seems to be a recent development. (I have had the set for about 8-9 months).
...

This is probably an image revision problem. Try the user menu first. The service menu adjustment usually works if the user menu is not effective.

Thanks- that did help. Substantially lessened the ghosting- but even with best user menu setting, it is still visible.

Can this be fixed in the service menu?

Any ideas why this would deteriorate over time?

thx again

Originally posted by TheGloucesterman
Thanks- that did help. Substantially lessened the ghosting- but even with best user menu setting, it is still visible.

Can this be fixed in the service menu?

Any ideas why this would deteriorate over time?

thx again

Service Menu Ghosting tweak. Use this if you still have ghosting problems after adjusting Image Revision. Set Image Revision to Auto before adjusting this.

D GM TG (Category)

V POS D -


I am not sure why this changes over time, but several people including myself have seen this. I think it could be an issue with ground loops and changing equipment, but I don't really know.

My 50"GWII is one year old today with about 1650 hours on it. UMR's tweaks done except for gray scale and filter. Picture tilt was fixed on warranty by shimming the optical block and is fine now. No visible pixel problems from my seat (11' back) and no other real issues. The fans might be slightly louder than new but still quite quiet. I can't detect any dimming of the picture up to now, so, overall, I'm very pleased with this set.

Originally posted by randall
After earlier reporting here my total satisfaction with my 15-month old GWII, a series of green blobs have just cropped up (some have called them crop circles) in the screen. Major culprit seems to be dust on LCD panels. Here are some threads reporting similar GWII/III issues:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=346599

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=350368

For me they appear as a trail of overlapping quarter-sized green circles spanning about four inches. Will be utilizing my extended warranty -- thank goodness I have it.

OK .. got my baby back from Ultimate Electronics today.* The green blobs/dust particles have been cleared away, but my baby came back bruised! The top edge of the base now has 1/4" dent, and a bit of the plastic at very bottom edge has been chipped away. It's very minor, and I don't think it'd show up in a picture. The bruising is akin to what might happen if you knocked your furniture with a vacuum cleaner. But all you GWII owners know how that foot sticks out at you. It can't be seen from a normal viewing position, but using a dead pixel analogy, it can be seen about 3 feet away.

What to do? Ignore it? Insist that the foot be replaced and risk further damage? When it was picked up from the house, I signed a form indicating there was no exterior damage so I'd have a strong case. When it was returned, another copy of the same form indicated the damage. The delivery guys had me sign it to indicate they picked it up (from the shop) that way.

This is kind of like what you go through after you've used movers for a big move. You notice minor scuffs on your furniture that weren't there before. Since this issue is not specific to the GWII, let me know if there's a better thread this should be posted to.

*The other story: After 9 business days of just checking with the receptionist, I asked to speak directly to the tech. He said he couldn't find anything wrong! I had him turn on the set while on the phone, and literally had to instruct him where to look. The good news is that he took care of it on the spot, but how long would it have sit there if I didn't call?

I have an opportunity to sell my GWII for $2900... debating if worth it.
Still hear static hum near fan- havent had tech come yet. Somewhat annoying. Overall still happy with picture, but wonder if it would be worth selling and looking for something else "down the road.'' From what I gather, the GWIIIs are not a quality improvement over the IIs. hmm.... What would you do?

The new ones are crap. What would you buy? That sounds like a good price to get for a TV that old.

About the tilt, I think I know what it is - it appears to be some barrel distortion or misalignment of the lens - if you look closely, the top and bottom tilt into the middle of the image on the left side.

I've seen this with my 20mm Nikkor lens - not so much that there's distortion, but if the lens is not absolutely square with the rest of the path, one side or the other can exhibit this squeezing.


Ron

UUronl:

The picture tilt (normally left side down) still seems to be all too common a condition even with today's GWIIIs and some Samsung DLPs. I believe that you are correct with your assumption that the lens is not exactly square with the mirror or screen. It is well known that these extremely wide angle lenses will produce some barrel or pincushion distortion which is mildly evident on my set, but the optical block definitely was not projecting a picture that was level with the bezel. This was corrected by shimming up one side the optical block which worked, but is not ideal. I am left with a level picture but with slight trapezoidal distortion at the top (as others have mentioned here) that could probably be corrected with some vertical adjustment, but I don't want to press my luck. This is a lot less annoying than the horizontal tilt that is often evident with he amount of graphics (tickers, etc) that are common to today's programming.

There really should be mechanical adjusters on the optical block mount to allow for variances in the construction of the set's chassis.

I have noticed some flicker, but only when the image is all or mostly green. I see it easily on ratings before a trailer (where the whole screen is green with white text), or watching golf. Does it make any sense that green would be the only color to flicker?

I've had my 50" GWII on a stand that won't hold my new M&K S150 center speaker. I also cannot fit all of my components in my current stand.

I'm looking at the Salamander Synergy Triple20. A friend of mine has his 60" GWIII XBR on this stand and it works great, but the GWIII's screen is about 5" closer to the bottom of the TV than the GWII. I'm worried that if I put the GWII on the Triple20 that I'm going to be sitting too far below the optimimum viewing angle (because the TV will be higher than it is now on my ~15" tall stand). My viewing distance is about 11'.

Has anyone put a GWII on this stand? Do I have anything to worry about?

Thanks,
Tom

I get the same flicker on green. It's not all greens, but I can always see it when watching "The Family Guy" and Lois has her green shirt on (it's animiated, so the green shirt is basically a big blob of the same shade of green, so it stands out). The Tivo fast forward/progress bar also flickers.

tlavelle - I've got a couple Salamander Single 20s connected by 2 bridges in the middle. I couldn't fit my center channel in the triple 20. Same hight though, just a little bit wider. I've got the 60" GWIII, and haven't noticed any viewing problems with the TV on the stand - as a matter of fact, HDTV is down right stunning when sitting at a normal distance.

Hope that helps..
mdk2

mdk2 - do you have the WE or the XBR? I know that the Triple20 works great with the 60" GWIII XBR - my friend has that setup now. I'm concerned because the bottom of my GWII's screen is about 5" higher than the bottom of the GWIII XBR's - I'm worried that my set will be too high and I'll be off the ideal axis for viewing.

Now, if you have the WE, which I believe has a similar distance between the bottom of the base and the bottom of the screen (~12"), then your feedback would be very relevant to my question. If you have the GWIII XBR on the 21" Salamander, though, then you've got the same screen height now that I have with my GWII on a 15" stand, which I consider to be perfect.

Maybe I'm worrying over nothing - at an 11-12' viewing distance the difference in vertical viewing angle that 5" of stand height makes is probably pretty small; I'd just like confirmation that the GWII works fine on a 21" stand before I pull the trigger on the Triple20.

Thanks,
Tom

tlavelle - I have the KF-60WE610. We have fold-up chairs in the room while waiting for the theater seats to arrive, so our seating distance tends to float between 9" and 11". I feel as though I'm looking ever so slightly up at the screen - If I look straight ahead, my eyes hit the screen about 1/3 the way up instead of 1/2 way up...

mdk2

I ahve started to see a green shadow that is offset to the left? Any ideas?

Does anyone here have-or-use a scalar (e.g. iscan hd) or HTPC or one of the new receivers (that up-converts all incoming video to component)? I have a Tivo and DVD and Laserdisc and other video inputs that I would like to switch-and-convert for output to my 60XBR800 on 3 component cables, rather than try to run cables from all these to my GWII.

Trying to make it thru the maze of options and it's pretty mind-boggling! Who does the above and are you happy w/your solution?

Laserfan,

Whether the receiver or GWII converts the incoming signal to component is not terribly important unless the receiver does a poor job of it. The electronics in the the GWII are very good. I would not waste any sleep over this. Converting 480p to 720p or 1080i for these TV's is not the best solution either. The TV must scale the signal to 768p. The only good reason to have a DVD player that sends 720p to these sets is for PAL. Anything else is degrading the image to some extent. Although it may be slight at best.

Stick with a quality 480p player and you will be getting the best PQ available on a GWII. I use a Denon DVD-3800 with all the tweaks. It is fabulous for NTSC. However, PAL would benefit from proper 720p scaling.

Well they took my baby away yesterday!

A couple of days ago, my GWII started turning itself off. The standby light would start flashing and the screen would go blank then it would come back on about 30 seconds later. It was very intermittent (couple times a day) but then it started happening with great frequency . . . until it wouldn't stay on for more than a minute (even when cold).

The service guy came and said he didn't know what was going on so he had to take it in and hook it up to a computer.

BTW, I bought it in January 2003 and hadn't had ANY problems with it until just now! Thank god I got the extended warranty . . . I am interested to see how much this costs to fix.

Did you try unpluging the lamp assem. at all & resetting it? I dought it is the lamp but ya never know. Hope they get it back to you soon!:)

I did a search on Sony's website and this must be a known problem, since it is listed in their knowledge base. It suggests to unplug for 30 secs to reset (which I tried). It then says that it needs service if this doesn't work.

I am staring at a 27" JVC 15 feet away and it is killing me!

I just installed my HD Tivo and was calibrating Overscan using the HDNET test patterns (using DVI input). I was adjusting MID1 DHPH to center the horizontal image. I started at 131. As the value crossed from 139 to 140 there was a notable increase in brightness of perhaps 20%. Any ideas why adjusting the image across a specific point would lead to an abrupt increase in brightness?

I've had my GWII for about a year and a half now and it's still running great! Thought I might've had a problem a coupla months ago when I noticed some strange intermittant color shifts but after doing some research, discovered it was the DirecTv/Tivo system feeding the screen and not the GWII. Whew!!! Meanwhile, I've been trying out Hi-Def cable lately (Adelphia has a no-contract trial, so what the heck) and the few HD channels they offer are amazing to see on that screen. It's what the set was meant for.

But to go along with that great image, I've decided to upgrade my sound system. I've started with a new, larger, center channel from B&W. What a difference, esp. for movies! Like HD for audio! Only problem is where do I put the damn thing? It's 18" wide x 12" deep and 20lbs. -- and that was the SMALLER one!

Underneath the screen it either blocks the components (I have the Sony stand) or slightly higher it blocks the GWII's IR sensor, et al. Obviously it would be best above the screen. But I certainly don't want to teeter it on that narrow rail. I've seen some other brands of RP sets that actually have a shelf and brace that flips up on the back. Anyone have any idea whether such a solution exists for the GWII?

Looking at the back, I notice some threaded screw holes (yes I know in the manual they talk about attaching guy-wires to the wall for stability), but I also notice some other indents and even a small 2x3 panel almost at the bottom of the sloping back. Any idea what this is for? Could it be a possible socket for a shelf brace? It seems to have its cover glued on so I don't want to pry any further than my fingernail will take me.

BTW, the set is free standing away from the wall in a giant loft-style setting so wallmounting or cabinetry doesn't seem to be an option. Any ideas?

Accidentally shot mine while cleaning my .357. My wife is not happy.

Wow! I really hope your kidding. If you're not, then your wife has a right to be unhappy. You were cleaning a loaded gun?

BTW, the set is free standing away from the wall in a giant loft-style setting so wallmounting or cabinetry doesn't seem to be an option. Any ideas?

You might try suspending it from the ceiling with some high strength "nearly invisible" wire. In addition to solving your problem it might make for a good conversation or two. :)


Jimbo

I'm a newbie so be gentle...LOL!

Where is the GWII settings that umr posted. I cannot find them off of the links posted. I'm hoping to obtain that incredible picture that every one is raving about. Any help is most appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Jr

Originally posted by Jr Lew
I'm a newbie so be gentle...LOL!

Where is the GWII settings that umr posted. I cannot find them off of the links posted. I'm hoping to obtain that incredible picture that every one is raving about. Any help is most appreciated. Thanks in advance.

Jr

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3770895#post3770895

Man, that was quick! I can't wait to adjust my settings and watch 'Nemo'.

My 3 year old thanks you.

Jr

I see quite a few people complaining about increased fan noise. I've had my GWII for over a year and the noise starts to be a little annoying. I've read most of the posts about this and can't find one that offers a fix for this problem. Did I miss it?

Originally posted by renpar61
I see quite a few people complaining about increased fan noise. I've had my GWII for over a year and the noise starts to be a little annoying. I've read most of the posts about this and can't find one that offers a fix for this problem. Did I miss it? I got one of the last GWIIs made I think (in Jan.) and so am a relatively new owner who has searched these forums high-and-low.

I recall complaints and questions about the fan, but no answers. My guess is that it's embedded pretty deeply in the assembly? Anyone with a service manual--comment on how hard it would be to get at it?

It would not surprise me if Sony used a custom variable-speed fan or something that would be impossible to find a 2nd (better/quieter) source for...

There are two fans. One is below the projector lens and sucks air into the optical block. The other is in the back and circulates air over the optical block heat sink. You can alter the fan speed of either of these in the service menu, but I don't recommend that. You can also monitor its effect on temperature. Temperature is used to cycle between a high and low temperature fan speed setting. This temperature setpoint is also configurable in the service menu.

Fan noise is also a function of how reflective the surface is behind the TV. Some people have had success with placing sound absorbing surfaces behind the TV.

Replacing the fan that blows over the optical block looks like a possibility, but I doubt it would be very effective. Replacing the fan below the projector lens with a different one looks less likely. It is also not as loud as the one in the back.

I have often been surprised by how noticeable the fan sound is when I shut-down after a session (TV or DVD/other). Surprised because I have yet to notice the sound during a program of any sort.

The idea to have sound-absorption material behind the set (drapes/curtains/whatever) is a good one regardless of the fan i.e. the fewer room reflections the better.

just got a gwIII 50" with a build date of june 2004. love it. best decision i could have made. I have had no trouble at all. PQ is excellent with HD feeds and pretty good with SD feeds. For the price i got it for, i know i made the right choice. the new HD2+ tvs coming out are just way too expenve for my taste... and you probably won't see any real difference in PQ either. I'd rather save $1000-$1500 and put that money toward getting all the extras... dvd player, cables, surround sound, tv stand, etc.

Originally posted by Jimbo Moran
You might try suspending it from the ceiling with some high strength "nearly invisible" wire. In addition to solving your problem it might make for a good conversation or two. :)

Thanks. A friend suggested a similar idea. We concluded that the anti-chuffing port on the back would also give the thing a nice dynamic swing during the loud passages for added visual entertainment. ;) Meanwhile, am playing around with the idea of a plexiglass inverted L-shaped deal that velcros on at the top rail and rests on a glued on bar-stop somewhere down the back.

But still would love to know what that little 2x3 panel is hiding on the back....

Hi
My 50xbr800 just started doing the same thing. It turns off after about 2 mins and the standby light flashes. 30 sec later it turns back on. Went into the service menu and I also have a lamp driver fault. I only have a 1yr warranty in Canada so I think I am hooped. The tv repair guy for sony stuff is on holidays for a week, so I am waiting to find out what the real problem is and how much $$$$.

Sorry to hear about that!

It took the repair shop nearly 5 weeks to get my TV back to me. Very few people are qualified to service this television and parts (lamps) are at a premium.

The technican hooked mine up to a computer and determined that a safety circuit was faulty, they replaced it and it was still happening . . . it turns out that the technician will receive the same trouble code if the lamp is also faulty. He replaced the lamp and everything was cool! Imagine . . . 5 weeks to tell me the lamp was no good . . . good thing I got the extended warranty . . . wrong again! The lamp is consumable so it is not covered . . . I am currently fighting Sony to have them cover the $250 in labour.

Originally posted by kibosh
... Imagine . . . 5 weeks to tell me the lamp was no good . . . good thing I got the extended warranty . . . wrong again! The lamp is consumable so it is not covered . . . I am currently fighting Sony to have them cover the $250 in labour.

I purchased the lamp and no extended warranty for this very situation.

Thanks a million.
I will try that 1st.

Boy, I have got to get busy & order a new lamp before mine goes. Otherwise I'll be going nuts for a few months if I don't. My GWII is at about 8400 hours now! I finally got a real nice AV receiver & sub woofer this past week. It makes the TV a whole lot nicer now!!!!!!!!!:D

Originally posted by Couch Patato
Boy, I have got to get busy & order a new lamp before mine goes. Otherwise I'll be going nuts for a few months if I don't. My GWII is at about 8400 hours now! I finally got a real nice AV receiver & sub woofer this past week. It makes the TV a whole lot nicer now!!!!!!!!!:D

Couch Patato,
It is really great to hear that you have 8400 hours on your lamp. That is 400 hours over the predicted 6,000 to 8,000 hour lamp life. I don't recall anyone on RPTV forum indicating that they have had a lamp last that long.
The lamp in my GWII has about 5,100 hours on it and I thought that I was doing good. I am going to put in a new lamp that I recently got and keep the original lamp to use when the new lamp eventually dies and another new lamp is ordered. I would have liked to "run out the string" on the original lamp to see just how long it would last, but the limited 90 day warranty on replacement lamps compels me to get the new lamp installed.

Jcjep,

I would only leave the new lamp in for a short (90 day) time and then run the old one. Sony does something behind the scene with that time to correct for color changes of the lamp. When you finally replace the lamp for real I would reset the timer.

Originally posted by umr
Jcjep,

When you finally replace the lamp for real I would reset the timer.

I would assume that to reset it, it is as easy as hitting reset while on the timer page in the SM?

Originally posted by Couch Patato
I would assume that to reset it, it is as easy as hitting reset while on the timer page in the SM?

No. Here is how you do it.

Scroll through the service menu until you reach category OPTION-E. You will then need to press the 3 button on the remote so your top line on the screen will read OPTION-E 0 1. Then press MUTE ENTER on the remote to reset the lamp timer. You can verify that the lamp timer has been reset by pressing the 6 button on the remote so the top line of the screen displays OPTION-E 0 0 and then read the timer from the right side of the screen. It should now be 00000.

HI
I got my GWII xbr800 fixed today. All it needed was a new bulb to stop that dreaded led from blinking and the picture cutting out. Only $100 for service and $300 for the bulb.
The tv repair guy told me that Sony upped the warranty on the gwIII's bulb to a year from 90 days. Maybe if we all complain about our GWII bulbs that they might up it also. 3928 hours on the bulb.
Happy HDTV

That is excellent!

It's good to know that when one of these babies keeps shutting itself off, the first thing to do is replace the bulb. I know I was pissed when they realized it after 5 weeks!

I've been looking for the best place to pick-up audio from my system for my wife's headset amp (she's impaired) and was surprised to learn:

No audio appears at the Monitor-out audio jacks if tuned to my set-top box that's input via the DVI jacks. Perusing the manual suggests that the Monitor-out will not work for non-hd video, but I'm surprised it doesn't pass the audio, especially since you have to specifically route analog audio-IN to the DVI section of the GWII.

Can others confirm my no-audio finding? Any way in the Service menu to get around this maybe?

Brickbats to Sony for muting the "normal" audio-out jacks when the Speakers are On--not sure why they insisted on doing this...

C'mon you guys, nobody's bumping this thread! You all fixated on your TVs?

Someone here needs to get the new Mac mini (6.5"x2") for $500 (!) and get it to drive the GWII. Maybe one can tell from the specs?

Graphics support
ATI Radeon 9200 graphics processor with AGP 4X support
32MB of dedicated Double Data Rate (DDR) video memory
Video
DVI video output for digital resolutions up to 1920 x 1200 pixels; supports 20-inch Apple Cinema display and 23-inch Apple Cinema HD display; supports coherent digital displays up to 154MHz; supports non-coherent digital displays up to 135MHz

This appears pretty weak I suppose...

Another year now. Still no trouble at 5500 hours and my spare bulb is still languishing on the shelf.:)

Bought my GWII in March of 2003.
Bulb finally died yesterday after 2 years of heavy use.
Ordered from sonystyle.com today, then got email saying it's out of stock!

They're always out of stock. Word is it takes 2 to 3 months to get one. I'd better order one now while I have a little extra money! I keep putting it off.

vaile,

I would search for another supplier. It can take quite a while to get one from Sony.

I ordered mine from Sonystyle.com a few weeks ago and I got it in a few days. I guess I was lucky because I also heard it can take weeks or months to get it from them.

For the record, I've had my GWII for two years and I have amost 6000 hours on the original bulb. I haven't put the new one in yet. I'm also going to do the UMR filter mod at the same time.

I still love this TV.

Unfortunately my GWII-XBR displayed it's last frame on 04/06/05, I purchased the unit 01/2004.

I purchased a Sony GWII 50" from Circuit City (early 2004) and my set appears to be a "lemon" and has been repaired 4 times as of 04/06/05, the display is garbled to where it's unwatchable. Due to the cost of this repair CC is going to replace the set. I have a series of pictures that clearly displays the GPU is not working properly, problem exists with all inputs including DVI.

I'm going to get a *NEW* TV from Circuit City and my choice will be the 55" GWIV 55XS955 instead of the 60" GWIV 60XS955, my viewing distance is 8.5'.

I have pictures if anyone is interested..

Sony's Customer Service is outstanding !!

Sure post them here!

I got my XL-2000U bulb this Friday and had the GWII back in service on Saturday! Had to vacum out a lost of dust in the process.

I cancelled my order with sonystyle.com and submitted a new order with servicesales.sel.sony.com. Paid $199 for the bulb, $12 for DHL overnight and got it the next day.

Ironically, DHL delivered it 3 streets away from my house since that's where a Sony repairman lives and he get's shipments every day...hmmph!

vaille

Thanks! I just ordered one. The site did say it was in stock. We'll see what the e-mail confirmation says.

FYI: My bulb should be getting close to if not at 11,000 hours or so.

Coach,

You must be close to a record with 11,000 hours. You might want to replace it just to regain light output unless you just want to see how far you can go.

When I get the new one I'll test it to make sure it works. If I think it is brighter then I might keep it in.

My lamp has been loosing luminance at a nearly linear rate approaching 50% of a new lamp output at 8000 hours. You are likely at about 40% of a new lamps light output.

Originally posted by umr
My lamp has been loosing luminance at a nearly linear rate approaching 50% of a new lamp output at 8000 hours. You are likely at about 40% of a new lamps light output.

Ok, since I'm no expert on this I have a ?. Through out the months when ever a DVD has the THX opyimizer(which I know is not that great) I'll go through & check the brightness & contrast. As far as where the bars end up. They are always about the same. I've never had to go brither on the adjustment. Now, if my bulb was loosing it's luminence like your bulb has, wouldn't I have had to keep adding clicks on the brighness as the bulb lost it's luminence? Or do you have to have a meter to see the change?

Originally posted by Couch Patato
Ok, since I'm no expert on this I have a ?. Through out the months when ever a DVD has the THX opyimizer(which I know is not that great) I'll go through & check the brightness & contrast. As far as where the bars end up. They are always about the same. I've never had to go brither on the adjustment. Now, if my bulb was loosing it's luminence like your bulb has, wouldn't I have had to keep adding clicks on the brighness as the bulb lost it's luminence? Or do you have to have a meter to see the change?

No. The lamp output has little to do with the brightness and contrast setting. What you are adjusting is the transmittance of the LCD panel. Your settings will stay the same if the panels perform the same unless the light output was to drop dramatically (think orders of magnitude).

You should be able to notice it without a light meter, but it is so gradual that it may take a lamp change to make it obvious.

Couch, if it ain't broke, don't fix it--i.e. if you are happy with the way your display looks then leave-it-the-heck alone. Your lamp has unquestionably lost much of its original brightness, but since it has occurred over such a long period of time you just haven't noticed it.

When you do start to notice it such that it impairs your enjoyment of a program, well you know what the problem is!

Ok thanks. I thought it might be something like that. That's why I asked to make sure.

WOW, I just got my new bulb today at 1:00PM. 4 days reg. UPS.

Couch,

Don't forget to take meter readings before and after the bulb swap. Like to hear what the difference is.

Originally posted by JimP
Couch,

Don't forget to take meter readings before and after the bulb swap. Like to hear what the difference is.

LOL, Meter readings will be my eyes. I have no equipment to do so otherwise.:(

At 11,000 hours it would be interesting to check out the LCD panels to see if they are showing any wear. A number of LCD front projectors typically show panel degradation by that many hours.

I've got a 6 year old CRT that might have 7000-7500 hours of use on it. I think it would take me about 9-10 years to get to 11,000.

Originally posted by Couch Patato
LOL, Meter readings will be my eyes. I have no equipment to do so otherwise.:(


Be sure to "zero" them out first. :D

I've got a spare bulb for my GWIII and a "industrial light meter". I have a theory I'd like to try out. For what ever reason, I feel like I can see more detail in the lower IRE's when the bulb is new. I saw UMR's post where he didn't think it works that way, so I'm curious to see if it was just my imagination when I replaced the bulb last year.

Actually there will be a little truth to that.:D I'll put in a DVD and watch a few certain chapters. Then I'll switch lamps & watch them over again to see what a difference the new lamp makes.

Originally posted by umr
My lamp has been loosing luminance at a nearly linear rate approaching 50% of a new lamp output at 8000 hours. You are likely at about 40% of a new lamps light output.
What is your opinion, on changing the lamp at a certain number of hours, to regain full brightness?

Originally posted by QZ1
What is your opinion, on changing the lamp at a certain number of hours, to regain full brightness?

It depends on your usage of the TV. Declining light output will lower black level which is good. However, it also lowers the level of white. I would change the lamp if the set is too dim for normal use otherwise let it ride.

I have read the threads on Upscaling DVD players and the DVI interface (saying "don't bother").

I have a Sony carousel player that does progressive component but not BTB and (of course) has the CUE problem. I also have a Sony DVP-S7000 that does BTB no CUE but is not progressive. Without doing any tweaks for either player, the carousel looks as good/better than the 7000 in casual viewing, but of course the BTB and CUE issues stick in my head...

umr I think you had/have a 7000--is it worth my trying to set this up with the GWII (mine is a 60") or is it time to get a new player? My 7000 is an original '97 "w/switches" and has little use--works as well as the day I brought it home. My reason for getting the carousel was for playback of non-DVD-ROM type discs i.e. homemade.

Laserfan,

I used to have a 7000. I am currently using a Denon 3800 that I really like. The best of the newer players can have superior PQ to the 7000 although the 7000 is a VERY nice player. I don't play homemade disks so I am not be best person to ask about compatibility with that format.

I would consider the following players none of which are perfect, but I would assume you could find one of those that fit your needs.

Denon DVD-9000, Denon DVD-3800, Denon DVD-2900, Denon DVD-5910, Onkyo DV-SP1000, Pioneer Elite DV-59Avi, Arcam FMJ DV-27A

Thanks, I guess I have to calm-down and figure out what my priorities are. What I probably really need to do is to get a CC20R filter; I was real hot to do that and then discovered B&H only sells them in twos now. It kills me to pay any more than I have to i.e. $63.50 at B&H (but you can't buy ONE!) or $80 I think at Adorama.

Anyway I think I'll enjoy the Texas summer and worry about it in the fall.

On a totally different subject: I live in a very dusty, dirty country property, yet after two years my 60xbr800's screen is still totally dust-free! I am amazed, simply amazed, that I have never touched the screen since the delivery guys set the thing into place. Bizarre, unbelieveable even, but the screen is perfect! Man, Sony got something right when they designed this set's screen material! :eek: :D

Is 200.00 the avg. going price for the XL-2000U replacement bulb?

Is 200.00 the avg. going price for the XL-2000U replacement bulb?
Well, it is the MSRP for the bulb, and as more places got it in stock, the price varied very little from this, when I checked recently.

Well, I had a little scare today. I guess I'm a little scared still.
I turned on the TV today only to see a split screen that was so scrambled you couldn't see what was on. Now that was no big deal at first because it's happened a few times over the last few months but was always corected by changing the input & then back. This time it did not work. No matter what input it was on it stayed the same, scrambled & split. I turned it off & waited for the fan to shut down & turned it back on. Still scrambled!:(

I then turned it off again, waited for the fan to shut down & unpluged it for 15 minutes. Turned it back on & STILL scrambled & split. So I just left it on & about 15min. later the picture came back OK & is still going strong after 4 hours or so. It flips through the inputs OK too. It seems after it came up to normal operating temp then it was OK.

FYI: I'm still on the first bulb. I never did get around to switching it out with the new bulb to compare the two. I think it's around 12.5 thousand hours give or take 500.

Now, the ? I have, is this a sign of the bulb or ballast dying? I seem to remember some strange thing when one of the two was going out but can't really remember. I've read back quite a few pages here & on UMR does the GWII but have not found anything yet. I hope some circuit or componant is not dying but I fear that is the case.

If it happens again I think I'll go ahead & swap the bulbs to see if that fixes it.

If anyone here has an extra Kodak 6" Wratten CC20R or CC30R that they're willing to sell, please PM me w/price. Thanks!

..just wanted to say i've had my 60" GWII coming up on 3 years this November...and it's performed FLAWLESSLY!

when i first purchased....the GWII threads were keeping me up at my computer late, late night.....and thanks to UMR (the GWII "Miyagi"), and all his "tweeks",
my set still blows people away- especially with HD.

..also wanted to say i'm still running fine on original bulb...i don't even have a backup lamp yet (guess i should think about ordering one)- i'm at about 7300 hours and counting.

thanks again to all the members here for their input, and knowledge!

AJ
tucson, AZ

I am going on 2.5 yrs. I have done all of UMR's tweaks (including filter) and with the exception of one bad ballast I have nothing but good things to say about this set. Everyone who has seen this set in action at my home is impressed. I have yet to see anything that compares to the HD and DVD quality I see every day at my home.

Just to add another data point, my GWII will be three years old in November, and the original lamp is still going strong. The other day I checked the lamp hours for the first time in a while, and it was over 10,200 hours. Holy crap! (Yeah, I got a spare sitting on the shelf...)

Mine is starting to have a ghosting like effect around objects. Could this be caused by the lamp diminishing? How do you check the lamp hours?

Like the last post, I see a little pinkish ghosting around bright white objects - especially noticed around the scores on a football game. Just started noticing this at the same time I started having the spontaneous standby for 30 sec problem.

A few posts above indicate the set going in to standby for a few seconds is due to the lamp getting close to failing. My set has over 7000 hrs. Could this also be related to the ghosting I see?

I ordered a replacement lamp from Sony - hope it gets here before Thxgiving. Figures this happens right before the holidays.

Also question about replacement: Seems like a lot of dust would be accumulated somewhere after 2.5 years. Is there any vacuuming or other things I should do when replacing the lamp?

Thx

-- Dan

Ghosting on these sets can appear from faulty logic Sony placed in them. I would try altering the Image Revision setting first. Another option is to go into the service mode and adjust it further.

...Seems like a lot of dust would be accumulated somewhere after 2.5 years...With my old 3-CRT RPTV I would have to take-off the screen and clean the mirror and CRTs periodically. Would cause a "fuzzyness" in the picture that I suppose MIGHT be the cause of what you are seeing.

For that set the screen was a simple lenticular/fresnel plastic sandwich and easy to take off (to get at the mirror & crts). I have no idea how I'd do that w/the GWII!!!

Mine is almost 2 yrs old now but I haven't even cleaned the screen once yet, so hopefully the innards are fine. BTW I have noticed and decided only recently that this set seems to like 1080i as input much better than 720p. 720p looks fuzzy by comparison. YMMV.

If anyone here has an extra Kodak 6" Wratten CC20R that they're willing to sell, please PM me w/price. Thanks!

Laserfan did you ever get one?

No, I never did. Been too wishy-washy; haven't been able to decide on either the type (20 or 30) or the price.

In the meantime the set continues to look great as-is. Very happy with it.

Well anyone that may have one PM me ok.

So, just for posterity...

I can confirm that replacing the lamp solved the problem of the TV going spontaneously into standby mode for 30 sec or so, then coming out of standby.

The bit of a blur from a left shift of some pink colors is a separate problem.

-- Dan

Mine is starting to have a ghosting like effect around objects. Could this be caused by the lamp diminishing? How do you check the lamp hours?

Has anyone who had the ghosting effect changed their bulb yet?. The Pinkish ghosting on my set is getting worse and is especialy noticeable in HD when there is contract between a dark object and bright background. The ghosting is getting noticeable on any programing as well and very annoying. I have not changed the bulb yet and the set is going on three years old. Any advice would be greatly appreciated, as the Sony people seem to have no clue about anything, and I'd like to avoid the $250 service call when changing the bulb might refresh my Wega.Thanks

Replacing the lamp did not solve that pinkish ghosting on my set. My set is about as old as yours.

Thats upsetting, I tried changing the image revision as well in the setup menu with no change. Any other things that can be done to solve this problem?, it almost looks like a convergence problem (although I know that shouldn't happen with and LCD projector).

I had this problem back 2 years ago. You have to go into the sevice menu to adjust it even more that what the setup menu can do. UMR gave me the answer right after I posted. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=3113091&&#post3113091

By the way I think the photo says it all about my Lamp.:D
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v169/Colorado59/Miss%20Pics/176_7606.jpg

Thanks for the info, I'm going to check it out and try it. Was it complicated?

If you have never been into the service menu I would start at the begining of that thread. UMR does a great job describing it. Once you get used to navigating through the sevice menue it's not really that hard.

Couch Patato,
Thanks, seems to have worked. PQ seems a bit different now, but maybe its my eyes playing tricks. Seems that I have 7800 hours on the original bulb. Trying to decide whether I should just get a new bulb now as well.

Couch Patato,
So I'm in the service menu at the D GM TG gategory, but I can't find out what to do at that point. Cab you tell me what to do at that screen.

Well, you need to change the value of "V POS D" in cat. "D GM TG" up or down. Watch the ghosting to see if it changes. It should. When the ghosting is gone then that's where to leave it. Then save the new setting. Then In the setup menue start with auto. If that does not work then try 1 to 3. I did send you a PM by the way.

Thanks CP,
Did the trick. I greatly appreciate the help. Now I might actualy start doing some of UMR's tweaks.

Daso,

Great! I'm very much a newbie with respect to messing with the service menu. I did download Version 5 of the tweak guide, but still not confident with what I am doing. Could you post some detailed description of what you did, and I'll give it a try as soon as my wife gets off the TV. ;)

-- Dan

Dan,
I am a newbie to the service menu as well, and had the great fear of destroying my beloved GWII with a bad command. I followed the directions to get into the service menu,
I then scrolled down to the category "D GM TG" and then changed the value in "V POS D" to 3 (got rid of the ghosting). I went back and forth to the setting a few times before I got the nerve to make the change and save it. All said, it took a minute or two to get this done. Follow the directions of Couch Patato and UMR to be sure.

It looks like this is a regular adjustment needed on most GW sets. I finally had to go in and make this adjustment after the image ghosting became intolerable at 8800 hours. Worked perfectly. Incremented V POS D from 30 to 32.

I recently baught a Sony A10 think that it would be at least as good as my XBR850. I figured that a two year old CE divice would be not match for the newer models. Boy was I wrong...the A10 doesnt even come close to the performance of the 850 on so many different levels.

I have since returned the A10...

I recently baught a Sony A10 think that it would be at least as good as my XBR850. I figured that a two year old CE divice would be not match for the newer models. Boy was I wrong...the A10 doesnt even come close to the performance of the 850 on so many different levels.

I have since returned the A10...

I also saw your query over in the SXRD thread about 2006 sets being clear of green issues. FWIW, I'm currently on day 21 of my 60" SXRD Nov build eval and its not looking good. :( I think I'm going to try an exchange for a Jan build.

I also have the KF50XBR800 (aka GWII) with about 2050 hrs on it, is this what you mean by a XBR850? What did you find better about the XBR800/850 over the A10?

Replaced bulb just before christmas @8005 hrs, still worked, I thought maybe it was causing the image revision to be off, but the bulb did not fix that, found post by umr how to fix that, looks like brand new again!

Hi fellow GWII owners. I had done the UMR tweaks long ago and about six months ago that same purple shadow to the left of black was seen on the display. It was not very noticeable until a few weeks ago. That's when I went searching. I had to change VPOS-D (under D-GMTG) from 30 to 31 and it went away. This is probably a coincident, but a few days later the lamp blew. Since I had just been in the service menu I had documented 6,848 hours. I had a replacement bulb on hand that I ordered probably 2 years ago. All I can say is WOW, the picture looks brand new again. I didn't notice how much dimmer it had gotten. It was still perfectly viewable even in daylight, but I'd say the picture is 20-30% brighter than it was just a few hours ago. :) Time to order a new backup bulb I suppose.

Thanks again for this thread. Without it I don't know how I would have figured out how to get rid of that reddish purple ghost from the image. (I had tried image revision in the user menu before the service menu change.)

Here's a picture of what I was seeing:

http://xboxphreaker.com/360/4b.jpg

Hi fellow GWII owners....
Cool, glad you found and cured the problem and thanks for documenting it here.

My 50" GWII is doing great with only 2100 hours (3 years old now) on the first lamp. I liked it well enough after tweaking I hated to sell it (after getting the new and larger 60" SXRD) so today we just moved it to secondary duties for the kids area TV. I hope to keep it there if I can convince the wife that its not 'too big' for the spot! :D :D :D

Just words of encouragement. I have my GWII for about 3 years and my first bulb had a lamp time of 17,489. I have the TV on practically all day and night!!

My second bulb got burnt just under 5,000 hours. I'm not sure why. But I'm giving Sony a benefit of a doubt, since I did turn it on and off more often (2 year old runs by and press the Power button!!!>.<); I bought the lamp 1.5 years ago; lower fan rpm from wear. My main suspect is the power on and off, since the bulb is still a filament inside an unsealed bulb. The thing was that the first bulb still works just clicks off after 30 seconds. The second bulb literally exploded in bits inside....

I just bought 2 more lamp, and told them that if one of these blows in less than a year (8,700+ hours), they going to get all 3 of my bulb and a letter from my lawyer!!! I figure, I pay $150 for a lawyer to write a letter about the bulb with 3 spent bulb.

My bulb exploded to. The TV was on and had been for a few hours and I heard a POP and the TV went off. I was hopeful that it was only the bulb, and it was.

I do have a question. I am now noticing a slight magenta tint in the upper 1/2" of the screen. It goes from the left until about the middle of the screen, getting lighter as you move down or right from the top left. Admittedly, I had been messing around in the SM a few days before while fixing the VPOS D setting as mentioned in my previous post. I don't recall seeing this tint until after I replaced the bulb. I thought that maybe I had tightened the bulb to tight or didn't seat it properly, so I checked that but it didn't fix the problem. If the TV were CRT I'd say it almost appears that the TV needs to be degaused in the upper left. Any ideas? This could just be hopeful thinking, but it appears to be a lighter magenta tint today than it was when I first installed the new bulb.

Thanks,
Mike

... I do have a question. I am now noticing a slight magenta tint in the upper 1/2" of the screen. It goes from the left until about the middle of the screen, getting lighter as you move down or right from the top left. ...
My GWII has a slightly pinker right side than the left side (on the original bulb at 2100 hrs). It's only noticable on white white screens, otherwise not a big deal at the small level of difference I see. I don't know if that is a result of my bulb aging or the LCD panels and I don't recall if it was there at the beginning either.

My bulb exploded to. The TV was on and had been for a few hours and I heard a POP and the TV went off. I was hopeful that it was only the bulb, and it was.

I do have a question. I am now noticing a slight magenta tint in the upper 1/2" of the screen. It goes from the left until about the middle of the screen, getting lighter as you move down or right from the top left. Admittedly, I had been messing around in the SM a few days before while fixing the VPOS D setting as mentioned in my previous post. I don't recall seeing this tint until after I replaced the bulb. I thought that maybe I had tightened the bulb to tight or didn't seat it properly, so I checked that but it didn't fix the problem. If the TV were CRT I'd say it almost appears that the TV needs to be degaused in the upper left. Any ideas? This could just be hopeful thinking, but it appears to be a lighter magenta tint today than it was when I first installed the new bulb.

Thanks,
Mike



OMG, I thought I was the only one with the strange 1/4" magenta streak on the top of the screen after I replace the bulb. I've been looking all over for a solution, but still no luck. If anyone find anything, please post. Thanks in advance.

OMG, I thought I was the only one with the strange 1/4" magenta streak on the top of the screen after I replace the bulb. I've been looking all over for a solution, but still no luck. If anyone find anything, please post. Thanks in advance.

Ah, the Internet...where you're rarely the only one. :) Mine too is 1/4" not 1/2" (was a typo). I still see it, but it does seem to be lightening. I am curious, did you reset the timer for the bulb in the SM after you replaced it? I did. The magenta bothers me enough that I am still trying to solve it. How long have you been suffering with the problem?

If I understood your previous post you have two bulbs now. Have you tried both? Do you see the upper left tint with both? If my bulb is defective (or old), I'd order another one if I knew it would make the problem go away.

No problems here. Initially I had a little ghosting, so I went into the basic menu and I think I did some kind of "shift" of an ms or something (???) and it took care of things. No problems at all.
I should mention that during the Olympics, when they (NBC) went from 16:9 HD to commercial-land of 4:3 SD, the screen made a "popping" sound every time. A friend with an SXRD said it was an NBC thing, as his consistently did it too. Never noticed it with anything else. :)

Lost my first bulb on a GWII tonight. I can't even begin to guess the hours on it. This display is about 3 yrs and on all the time. The hr count has to be huge. I have noticed its been dimming quite a lot for a long while. I'll be shopping in the AM for a replacement not having one on the shelf. Any advice on lamp purchase? (best price, shipping, reliablity of vendor?)

It cannot be true. UMR is gone! This is so wrong on so many levels. Reading this, - I will go cry over my dead display now.

PS. this is the II thread but for those who keep track, a generation GW1 in the family just lost its first lamp 2 months ago.

I think most have order them from Sonystyle.com. I order mine a year ago & got it in about four days. I have yet to have to use it though.:D Still waiting for the original to die.

The latest problem I've had with my GWII is that it will shut down for 30 sec. or so & then fire back up. Very strange. I think maybe the temp sensor is doing it but the room temp is only 68 or so. I does not do it evey day but when it does it's doing it two or three times in an hour or so.

Also, when I go to turn it on it will fire up for a second( as in the fans kick on) but the bulb never lights & then the fans turn off. I have to hit the power button again to get it to turn on properly.



Oh, by the way. UMR is still around. He posted on the original UMR does the GWII just a few days ago. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=196558

I think most have order them from Sonystyle.com. I order mine a year ago & got it in about four days. I have yet to have to use it though.:D Still waiting for the original to die.

The latest problem I've had with my GWII is that it will shut down for 30 sec. or so & then fire back up. Very strange. I think maybe the temp sensor is doing it but the room temp is only 68 or so. I does not do it evey day but when it does it's doing it two or three times in an hour or so.

Also, when I go to turn it on it will fire up for a second( as in the fans kick on) but the bulb never lights & then the fans turn off. I have to hit the power button again to get it to turn on properly.



Oh, by the way. UMR is still around. He posted on the original UMR does the GWII just a few days ago. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=196558

Mine did something similar. Turned out only to be a sticky power button on the remote. I'm on my second Sony remote and it too is already a little sticky. They seem very intolerent to contamination from guacamole, burbon, peanuts, etc.

Ah, the Internet...where you're rarely the only one. :) Mine too is 1/4" not 1/2" (was a typo). I still see it, but it does seem to be lightening. I am curious, did you reset the timer for the bulb in the SM after you replaced it? I did. The magenta bothers me enough that I am still trying to solve it. How long have you been suffering with the problem?

If I understood your previous post you have two bulbs now. Have you tried both? Do you see the upper left tint with both? If my bulb is defective (or old), I'd order another one if I knew it would make the problem go away.


I think I figured out somte things:

1) The magenta streak across the top, is probably caused by the natural sagging of the TV casing, kinda like a newly built house. If you push back the TV a bit, the streak disappears due to the angle displacement of the mirrors. Theres only 2 fixes to this, one, use the straps to anchor the TV to the wall at the top so the weight is no longer causing the sag. Two, which I don't suggest, is to open the optical engine, and re-adjust your mirrors!!!


2) The Bulb issue..... I reset my counters. and yes the first bulb is at 17,000+ hours. The HG lamp is the same type they use in street light, high pressured mercury sodium arc lamp. These lamps usually are rated at 10,000-24,000 hours. The life can be extended by cooling the lamp, since high temperature will prematurally burn the metal encased in the arc. The reduced hours from the second lamp seems to be caused by the aging or dust in the cooling fan. Since then, I cleaned it out and increase the fan time in the service menu from 10min to 15 mins.

My latest issue is trying to connect my gaming PC to the GWII with an Geoforce 6800 GS card. It sems that I have to connect to it with a DVI instead of component even if the manual says not to. Stay tune!!

I hate to be a bother....but my eyes are falling out trying to read through the 50+ pages of UMR does GWII thread. On black background! I have tried several downloads of the PDF file links I've found, scattered throughout the thread they are not funtioning for me.
I'm getting ....IE cannot open file not available link dead? (something like that).

I would dearly love to get my hands on UMR entire tweak manual (with or without his backup support :) )

Right now I'm looking for
1: How to access and change V POS D. I read through several pages but cannot find a post with the total description. I may be not utilizing search correctly? I just get UMR's whole thread (50+ pages :) ) when I search that keyword.
2: How to access the bulb life screen (I just replaced one want to see how long the last lasted)
3: How to reset bulb hr counter.


Edit: I do not have enter SM either. I found [POWER], [DISPLAY], [5], [Vol+], [POWER]. all within 4 secs/seperatly. I just keep hot quitting my new bulb. EEK! regardless of the [POWER] fore or aft; I leave off.

I think I have found/ and printed post how to enter SM, but beyond that I cant' find details.
Thanks very much for any guidance!

PM me with your e-mail addy & I'll send it to you.

As far as resetting the bulb timer here ya go.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4163950&&#post4163950

The latest problem I've had with my GWII is that it will shut down for 30 sec. or so & then fire back up. Very strange. I think maybe the temp sensor is doing it but the room temp is only 68 or so. I does not do it evey day but when it does it's doing it two or three times in an hour or so.

Also, when I go to turn it on it will fire up for a second( as in the fans kick on) but the bulb never lights & then the fans turn off. I have to hit the power button again to get it to turn on properly.




LOL, by going back & finding the posts about the lamp timer I found out that it's the lamp that's causing this. Dahhhh! Well I looks like I'll be putting my new bulb in real soon I guess.:D

I'll let you all know how many hours that's on the lamp.

Couch, got it. Thank You! having trouble printing it, but will resolve that. (hard to scroll on screen to refer back & forth between commands/sections.

My lamp had 16,473 hours on it!

Concerned about temp right now, while in SM for about 30 min. Temp has moved from a start of 28 degrees to 42!
What would be considered the shutdown/do something about it threshold?

Good to hear that. I have no idea what a max. safe temp would be.

I think I figured out somte things:

1) The magenta streak across the top, is probably caused by the natural sagging of the TV casing, kinda like a newly built house. If you push back the TV a bit, the streak disappears due to the angle displacement of the mirrors. Theres only 2 fixes to this, one, use the straps to anchor the TV to the wall at the top so the weight is no longer causing the sag. Two, which I don't suggest, is to open the optical engine, and re-adjust your mirrors!!!


2) The Bulb issue..... I reset my counters. and yes the first bulb is at 17,000+ hours. The HG lamp is the same type they use in street light, high pressured mercury sodium arc lamp. These lamps usually are rated at 10,000-24,000 hours. The life can be extended by cooling the lamp, since high temperature will prematurally burn the metal encased in the arc. The reduced hours from the second lamp seems to be caused by the aging or dust in the cooling fan. Since then, I cleaned it out and increase the fan time in the service menu from 10min to 15 mins.

My latest issue is trying to connect my gaming PC to the GWII with an Geoforce 6800 GS card. It sems that I have to connect to it with a DVI instead of component even if the manual says not to. Stay tune!!

It's been a little while... My magenta streak is still there, and like you I noticed it was gone by putting pressure on the TV in the corner. It's just odd that I don't remember seeing it until I replaced the bulb.

As for the gaming PC, I have a HTPC connected via Component because it stopped working on my DVI port (and I am not the only one that has had this happen). The TV's DVI port works fine for other devices and I tried my HTPC on a friend's TV using the DVI out and it was working. So, somehow the GWII stopped recognizing the DVI signal from my ATI AIW 9800 Pro. Component works fine though, and I only have a tiny bit of overscan at the top of the TV, which I can live with.

BTW, the purple hue at the top left just makes me want to go get a 60" TV. :) (I have the 50)

FYI

I was in the middle of my twice a year tune up and calibration when I noticed (100% full field Gray Scale) in the lower right corner some inconsistent pink tinged colouring. I suspected that my filter had shifted a little. Since I have had the filter in for almost three years I decided to replace it. OMG!!!! After some minor tweaking to the cuts and drives the PQ is back to that WOW factor I remembered when I first did the filter tweak. The old filter had deformed a bit, but did not look (to the naked eye) any different in color value from the new one I in stalled. The picture told me otherwise! I highly suggest to all of you with +2yrs on your filter to swap it out with a new one. My guess is that the heat generated in the optical engine block may degrade the filter slightly with time.

...heat generated in the optical engine block may degrade the filter...Thanks a lot niesman for checking-in with this information.

IIRC one of the suppliers only sold filters 2-at-a-time; your post indicates two will be needed in perhaps a shorter time than some might have guessed!

I had asked umr about the value of an upscaling player and got this excellent reply here:

Whether the receiver or GWII converts the incoming signal to component is not terribly important unless the receiver does a poor job of it. The electronics in the the GWII are very good. I would not waste any sleep over this. Converting 480p to 720p or 1080i for these TV's is not the best solution either. The TV must scale the signal to 768p. The only good reason to have a DVD player that sends 720p to these sets is for PAL. Anything else is degrading the image to some extent. Although it may be slight at best.

Stick with a quality 480p player and you will be getting the best PQ available on a GWII. I use a Denon DVD-3800 with all the tweaks. It is fabulous for NTSC. However, PAL would benefit from proper 720p scaling.So this is kind of moot question but I will ask anyway: has anyone here had any trouble getting a 720p source to play thru Inputs 5 or 6 (component)?

I recently tried hooking my Sony DVP-S7000 thru my ESI VLS-2000 scaler and was surprised that in 720p mode the Sony didn't like it at all--you can see an image but it's shrunk & torn & noisy i.e. does not appear to be syncing. Tried a number of settings to no avail.

Given umr's comments above I will make myself be happy with 480p mode (looks MUCH BETTER than my other Sony DVD player--the 7000 does BTB and the ESI box has a nifty "Enhance" black mode) but I was surprised to see this.

I suppose I should try my Hughes HTL-HD receiver into a component-in to see if its 720p output works (it's currently connected via DVI).

Any other bad 720p experiences out there, or is my VLS-2000 faulty here?

Just finished reading the post above about upscaling and was wondering if this means I should have the resolution output setting on my Samsung receiver to 480p instead of 720p for my GWII 60"? Or have I misinterpreted the explanation...

My second question is whether others have come across a reputable Toronto/GTA TV calibration service for their GWII. I have the Avia DVD disc but I'm a little overwhelmed about the time it would appear I would need to go through the whole disc to calibrate optimally. I have already applied UMR's SM tweaks...should that be good enough?

Thanks.

I've upgraded my GWII to the 70" XBR2. I'm selling the GWII to a friend of mine, so it will stay in the "family." I really enjoyed the set and was particularly happy that it was well adjusted thanks to UMR's tweak guide.

Robin, I hate to ask, but other than the size diff, what % number would you put on the PQ improvement between the two sets? Don't know if the XBR2 has a built-in receiver, but if so, you could factor that in as well.

Coming up on my GWII's fourth birthday, and I'm still very happy with it (the reason I hate to ask).

Robin, I hate to ask, but other than the size diff, what % number would you put on the PQ improvement between the two sets? Don't know if the XBR2 has a built-in receiver, but if so, you could factor that in as well.

Coming up on my GWII's fourth birthday, and I'm still very happy with it (the reason I hate to ask).

Randall:

The XBR2 has two built in OTA tuners, but that wasn't a factor for me. The factors that did push me into upgrading:

- 70" size
- 1080P (display and input via HDMI -- not that I have any 1080P sources right now)
- Much, Much better black levels and shadow detail.
- The 70" has removable speakers (which I ultimately didn't remove)

For bright scenes, both sets look great. But on night scenes, the improvement over the GWII is striking. I believe the XBR2 does a better job with SD even though it's now scaling up to 1080 instead of 720. And of course black is now black again -- not dark gray.

All that being said, I needed the extra 10 inches to get me to buy. The 60" SXRD has been available for over a year and didn't jump on that.

FYI, my GWII was only 3 years old -- I got mine toward the end of the model year.

I needed the extra 10 inches to get me to buy...Whenever I feel the urge for a bigger set, I just move the sofa a little closer to the screen! ;)

As for better blacks, I also find that once "the show starts" I get lost in the entertainment. But I do wish you well with the new set.

My next TV won't be a TV at all, but instead a Pearl or a Ruby with a 2.35:1 setup. The current Holy Grail for home theater displays....

Oh my, oh my Robbin. I haven't even so much as walked into a TV store in 4 years, but now you've got me thinking. Later this month, I'm getting a new HD DVR installed. That'll mean I'll have my old Sony SAT-HD200 hanging around with no TV to output to. Maybe I'll move it and the GWII to the 2nd room, and . . . I am indeed glad for you!

I'm thinking about upgrading to the 60" xbr2.

As far as the 70" model goes. I refuse to pay $7000 for a TV. Besides 70" is too big for my living room. :(

I can't see how sony can justify an $2700 increase just because the case is 10'' bigger. The case is not the cost of the TV. The guts are & there is no diff between the 60" & 70" inside.

I'm thinking about upgrading to the 60" xbr2.

As far as the 70" model goes. I refuse to pay $7000 for a TV. Besides 70" is too big for my living room. :(

I can't see how sony can justify an $2700 increase just because the case is 10'' bigger. The case is not the cost of the TV. The guts are & there is no diff between the 60" & 70" inside.

I'm happy to report that I didn't pay $7000. But I agree with your point. Unfortunately, people such as myself who pre-pay and buy a set unseen are probably re-enforcing Sony's pricing strategy. Why charge $7K? Because they can. Before this set my only other alternative was the $14K (lately down to $9K) Qualia 006.

If I had wanted a 60", I would have gone with the A2000 model to save even more money.

I bought my GWII in March 2004. The bulb just now burned out in April 2007. Not bad considering 80% of the TV use was displaying HD content. but still.. I believe this will be the first and last time I replace the bulb in this TV set. I'm hoping OLED panels will have matured and available for purchase in three years (2010).

I bought my GWII in March 2004. The bulb just now burned out in April 2007. Not bad considering 80% of the TV use was displaying HD content. but still.. I believe this will be the first and last time I replace the bulb in this TV set. I'm hoping OLED panels will have matured and available for purchase in three years (2010).

Will there be OLED in 2010? Sure -- Sony and Toshiba have both announced products for this year and next. Will there be sets in the 50-70" size? If so, they will likely still be expensive. A 70" 1080p Plasma is still $15K in 2007. And Sony's new 70" LCD is $30K.

I'm coming up on the fourth anniversary of my 50XBR800 (July). Have replaced two lamps, each about 18 months apart (about 2500-3000 hours each), so if the pattern continues I'll be due for another (which I have in reserve) at the end of this year.

Had a brief scare a few days ago, which prompts this post. Turned the set on, standby light flashed for 5 seconds or so, and then lamp light flashed -- no picture.

Pulled the lamp and it looked fine. Previous lamp failures had resulted in shattered innards in bulb assembly. Reinserted lamp, turned set on, and picture appeared as usual -- but 4:3 picture was offset noticeably to the right. Removed and reinserted lamp, taking care to seat it firmly, and picture is now shifted just slightly to the left.

Is the correct solution to apply the remaining correction to picture centering through service menu adjustments, or is there a 'trick' to proper lamp seating to achieve accurate center alignment? I do not recall having any centering issues when replacing the first two lamps.

I'm coming up on the fourth anniversary of my 50XBR800 (July). Have replaced two lamps, each about 18 months apart (about 2500-3000 hours each)

I can't help you with the centering, but I wanted to state that I must be lucky because I went 4+ years and 9440 hours on the original lamp before I replaced it.

It is (AFAIK) still working, but I figured I was due so I bought a replacement.

I too have a KF-50XBR800.

I can't help with the 4:3 thing either. I've only swapoped lamps once & that was at about 14,000 hours & it never died. It was sutting down about once or twice a day or so though.

The dumb this was though I never reset the timer so I have no idea what's on this second lamp.

I can't help you with the centering, but I wanted to state that I must be lucky because I went 4+ years and 9440 hours on the original lamp before I replaced it.

It is (AFAIK) still working, but I figured I was due so I bought a replacement.

I too have a KF-50XBR800.


Wow! I envy you guys. My first lamp only had around 3000 hours. I reset the lamp timer and hoped the early failure was a fluke. Not so. Lamp #2 lasted even less. Replaced it, but neglected to reset the timer. Luckily, I have an employee source at Sony to get the lamp at a dsicount, and ALWAYS keep a lamp in reserve.

Along with the murky blacks, lamp life is one of the few things I'm disappointed in. Otherwise, it's an awesome set.

I have had my GWII for close to 4 years... replaced the bulb twice, but it runs 10 hours most days. Recently I started seeing artifacts in the display at the top edge and bottom edge. My local Sony-authorized repair rep just told me that it's called "road mapping" and the blue LCD is "coming apart". His diagnosis is that the optic assembly needs to be replaced, $800 for the part. I have done a couple searches on this thread and didn't find anyone mention this problem, but I could have missed it. Has this happened to anyone else? I can post pictures tonight if anyone is interested in seeing what the artifacts look like, let me know.

Guy

12807 hours.....and counting....on ORIGINAL lamp! :cool:

i've owned my unit for close to 4 years now,
and have been really happy. 720P (or whatever it is)
has been just fine. i always take double takes when
i'm out shopping, or see something in 1080P, and yes
it looks awesome, but i'm quite content w/ my unit.!

the one thing i've really used is the split screen (PIP),
and its nice that each of the windows are resizable.

my wife and i call it the "compromiser"- she can watch
her tivo'd shows on one side, and i can play my 360 on the other,

this TV is gonna have to be dragged out of my family room
for me to depart with it. (hopefully no time soon)- but i do know that
i will be really dissappointed if i cant find something w/ the same PIP features.

i have a few questions, if anyone can offer some feedback.

1. since i've owned my unit, i've never "dusted" it (internally), or
had any type of "maintenance"done to it. is there something that i should do,
maybe to clean it internally? or any other type of maintenance that
i've been ignoring?

2. just curious, are there any newer sony units, or even other
manufactures (plasma, lcd, dlp) that offer the same type of PIP
features as my GWII????

thanks everyone for your feedback on this forum, its cool keeping up
with the latest news/info.

hours

i've owned my unit for close to 4 years now,
and have been really happy.... i've never "dusted" it (internally), or
had any type of "maintenance"done to it. is there something that i should doYeah, I would say "leave it the heck alone"!!! :D It ain't broke, so don't try to fix it!

I have a 60XBR800 for some three years now and while I'm dying to build a 2.35:1 CIH setup w/projector & curved screen, the wife says "no way!" and there's no question that movies & HDTV just look great on it. So I can't complain.

Talk about "no maintenance"--I have only once in 3 years touched the screen--and just a tiny area at that! We live in a dirty, country environment and I dunno how the screen repels dust, but it does.

Guess I run it til it breaks. Wonder where one disposes of a 60"!!!??!!

I sold mine in November and purchased a KDS60A2000. But I must say my old GWII was built like tank. I was very happy with the dependability it's still on the same lamp and I purchased it when it was first released. My friend has it in his living room now and it's still kickin'!

Mine is going strong. The color in this unit is very accurate, plenty of brightness with the ORIGINAL bulb. On some things like HDNet, and football, it "seems" to look like the RPTV's over at Magnolia...I think "Geez, why should I bother buying a new unit?" But then in some scenes (especially the dark scenes, it is relatively poor...crushed blacks / little shadow detail (not as important in a football game). Yea, I am waiting to pull the trigger this early fall...maybe a Sony 70"XBR 3/5 SXRD, or maybe a JVC FP (radical, huh? ) :cool:

After 4 years and 15,000+ hours, my 60XBR800 is now cycling between power on for 1 minute and switching to standby. From the prior posts I guess that means it's time to replace the bulb.

Does anyone have experience on how long it takes sonystyle to ship a replacement bulb order?

I ordered one a few weeks ago and it only took 3 or 4 days.

My secound bulb I installed not too long ago started doing this every 10 minutes or so just the other day. It lasted only a 1/4 of what the first bulb did. 20,000+

I need to order a new one on Mon.

I put the original back in untill I get a new one. It only resets once or twice a day at the most.

Before I ordered the replacement bulb, I double-checked with Tweeter to see if my 5 year extended warranty covered the bulb but they told me no as I already suspected. They did suggest ordering from www.tweeterpartsearch.com, so that's another source for obtaining a Sony factory replacement XL-2000U bulb.

I need to find one here in Denver today!!!!!!! The thing kicks off every 45sec. Both my old & newer bulbs are doing nit now. :eek:

Well I ordered one Mon. afternoon with express shipping for $238. I couldn't find one in Denver.:(

Got the new bulb this morning & all is well.:)


This time I'm resetting the timer so I know how much I get from this one.

My KF-60XBR800 has over 13,500 hours on the original bulb and it seems that it might finally be dying - the set has started turning itself off and then back on again (as widely reported here). So far it's happened about three times in three weeks, so not yet at the point of an annoyance.

Funny thing is I thought I'd be needing a new bulb a LONG time ago - I picked up a replacement lamp in summer 2004 (doh!).

I've been waffling back and forth on what my next set will be - 70" XBR2, then various 57" LCD models, but now I think I'm going to go with a 70" XBR5 when it comes out this fall.

OK, looks like my luck didn't hold out any further - set wouldn't stay on more than a minute today. Took the old bulb out, vacuumed out as much of the dust in that cavity as I could, popped in a new bulb and presto... working fine now. In fact the image seems brighter with a purer white now.

Final tally was 13,529 hours on the original bulb.

Excellent. Still on first buld, set is almost 5 years old. Not sure of hours, should check it. New buld sitting in closet, bought it before Superbowl XL, didn't want to miss the game. Still love the picture, am not going to spend $6K on a new 70" unit. Spent almost 5K for this thing back in fall of 2002. GW II's keep going strong!

Congratulations MChilli, I can't say the same for my set. I'm on the second bulb. But I'm going to have to replace #2 sooner than later. I see a faint red circle in white or lighter colored screens - just like on the first bulb. I got about 7000 hours on bulb #1. I haven't checked the hour count on #2 yet, but I'm sure it's not a lot.

My first bulb died from a hotspot on the feeder wire on the bulb. When the first bulb finally refused to light up, I replace it. What I saw was a gap in the wire. I'm sure the filament is still good and would last a lot longer than the power supply wire that goes to the top of the bulb.

I've got a spare on the shelf in the closet, but I'm replacing the bulb more often than I would have expected. My TV generally runs for a few hours in the evening. We don't turn it on and off more than once or twice a day at most. There is always at least a half hour cool down time if we do turn it off and on, usually more like an hour or two.

Still a great set. The HD football looks fantastic. I'm sure when the new bulb goes in, I will notice a BIG difference. The picture is starting to look a bit dim. The Vivid setting is now almost a better viewing option in daylight.

Bought in Nov 2005 and still going strong. I bought a replacement Bulb early, but I have still haven't had to use it. Did the tweaks early and both my SD and HD pictures still looking good.
BUT I do have the same issue others have reported and that is picture looks better on componenet versus DVI, which is HDMI/DVI from my toys.
FIOS though component looks outstanding, just better color than over HDMI.
I just got an HD-DVD player and the picture is closer, but still the color is better over component.
So that is the one thing I wish was better, the DVI PQ..

I purchased my GWII the last week of December 2002 and just replaced my first bulb (October 26, 2007). The set is a KF-50XBR800 purchased NIB and the bulb showed 9045 hours on the service menu counter. The filament was completely burned in half and was obviously arcing when I tried to turn it on as the standby light would flash 5 times and it would make an audible buzzing sound, shut down, then repeat the sequence over and over until I turned off the set. I just mention this as I've never read about this particular symptom. The bulb LED on the front panel never did flash at all (I thought this was kind of odd).

I should also mention that we always had the picture on Vivid setting and that obviously had no major effect on the bulb life like some folks have mentioned. The original lamp has a max. life expectancy of 6000 hours so I feel pretty pleased. We live in Brandon, FL (near Tampa) and have a lot of lightning, surges, and power brownouts. It is not uncommon for the voltage to drop down near 100 VAC during the summer months of high a/c usage. I have whole house surge protection on the entrance panel and a PS Audio Power Director 4.7 that provides balanced power and is programmed to turn off the TV when the voltage drops below 105 VAC. It works really well and often in the middle of summer. The power quality in this part of Florida (Tampa Electric/TECO Energy) is the worst I've ever seen and I'm an electrical engineer from Georgia Tech. The AC line voltage is all over the map and rarely stable except in the middle of the night when demand is obviously low.

Based on observations others have made regarding the Sony XL-2000 bulb, I'm quite pleased with the life I got. BTW, I replaced the bulb only and put it in the original XL-2000U bulb carrier. I got an OEM replacement bulb from dlplampsource.com located in San Diego. The cost was $169 including 2nd day air and it even includes a plastic glove to wear so you can handle the bulb and not get oil from your skin on it during installation. I ordered the bulb last Tuesday and late Thursday it had not yet arrived so I emailed them. At the time I did not know where they were located or the fact that they had to evacuate because of the big fire. They emailed me back within 5 minutes and said they were sending out all orders for the week with free overnight shipping so everyone would have them for the weekend. Best customer service I have received in years and I cannot recommend them more highly. Dan IS the MAN! I will definitely use them again. They carry replacement bulbs only for most major brands and all the bulbs are OEM, no crappy substitute parts. Hopefully this will help others.

How noticable is the picture and brightness improvement for those who have replaced their original bulbs that date back to 2002-2003? I'm still running on my original bulb from Nov 2002, and am wondering what I might be missing by not replacing the bulb?