Hitachi LCD V500 Issues Thread [Text View] - Page 4

MikewL

04-22-05, 11:45 PM

At the risk of starting yet another raging debate on burn-in on LCD's or extended warranties, I have to let everyone in on the latest with my set. Sorry it's a long story.

A few weeks ago I noticed that The Incredibles DVD menu had burned into my screen after only about 30 minutes. It was gone the next day, but then I noticed that on HD material, I could see a major color difference where the black bars are on the sides for SD material.

So, I called in my CC repair guy. He noticed the problem immediately and after a bit of checking found that this is a "known problem" with this TV and that the owners manual recommends not using black bars. Anyway, the CC guys recommended a 5-10 hour screen wipe, which is an option in the screen saver menu. It basically shows white on the entire screen.

I tried it twice with no luck and reported back to my repair guy, ready for a tough sell to get a second new light engine. To my delight, he had already ordered it, I guess knowing that I would not be happy with the wipe results.

Yea! Although I'm not happy with the reliability of this TV, I have been absolutely completely happy with my CC warranty. No arguments whatsoever about what's noticeable or not. They have just tried to get it fixed.

So, I don't know if the burn-in is due to a faulty light engine or what, but I DEFINITELY have a burn-in type problem.

And, if you're debating a warranty, GET IT.

will_s

04-27-05, 12:03 PM

Wow, so many 50v500 LE replacements, I have the red cloud issue and after a month of waiting on the new LE to come in. CC called two days ago and said Hitachi authorized an exchange instead for an equivalent model. which turned out to be the s810. Which has its own list of reported problems.

Word to the wise get the EW, only took 16 months for my 50v500's light engine to develop problems. Also had two service calls before that for the red/pink shift stated above and a ghosting issue as well.

Uwish

04-28-05, 12:43 PM

Your telling us that Hit actually is going to not just replace your unit but upgrade it to an 800 series? I have never heard of a company doing that, even if they are seriously low on parts usually they will just replace the unit with a new one....

will_s

04-28-05, 04:56 PM

Yes, CC at Hitachi's request authorized the exchange for the 50v500, The in store customer service rep said just go pick out a set with equal features and size to the 50v500. They had two choices in stock a 50v710 and the s810, I liked the s810's picture better took the display card up to customer service she asked one of the guys in the tv dept if it was a equivalent set he said yes, done deal.

I had been waiting a month for the LE to come in so the tech could replace it on the v500, then on Monday CC called and said they were trying to locate where the part was. The next day they called back and said that an exchange was authorized. I don't know if it had anything to do with having 3 service calls on the set in 16 months or the CC Tech didn't want to mess with it anymore, either way I'm just glad to be finally done with the 50v500, no offense to anyone but I hated that set, nothing but problems.

That's why I was so suprised to see all the LE replacements being done on 50v500's when I search through the last couple of pages of this thread.

(the only new costs I was out is the delivery and a new EW on the s810, even got a bit of money prorated back to me on the v500's leftover EW)

BigBlueBong

04-29-05, 09:30 AM

damn....maybe i should put my foot through mine and see what happens.....the s810 is nice!

aressa

05-10-05, 08:22 PM

Originally posted by zaza4
You can include me in the "Red Cloud" group. My set's in the shop now awaiting a new light engine. The set's exactly one year old. The attached photo was sent to Hitachi at their request. Count another one in the Red Cloud group. My set is 14 months old now, and I'm glad I have an extended warranty (though I'm not going to call in on this one until I have more info on what the fix is).

locojones

05-10-05, 08:29 PM

For those that have had the light engine replaced in order to eliminate the red cloud issue, what has been your experience or recommendations?

Does it clear the issue?
Does it introduce any new problems?
etc

serro821

05-11-05, 12:54 AM

Originally posted by locojones
For those that have had the light engine replaced in order to eliminate the red cloud issue, what has been your experience or recommendations?

Does it clear the issue?
Does it introduce any new problems?
etc

I have had this problem. Be very careful when the repair man comes over. I had an extended warranty with my Hitachi from Sears. The first time the repairman showed up he said that the red ghost was normal. He was getting his info from a call center. I had him come back and try to fix it again. This time he used the call center and had a different guy help him out. This new guy said the red ghost was not normal. To make a long story short, my light engine had to be replaced. It cost over a $1000, but since I had the extended warranty, it cost me $0.

locojones

05-11-05, 01:27 AM

Yeah, I too have the Sears extended warranty. And I know that not all the repair guys have the same amount of experience or exposure to these kind of products.

Is this something you want to request? Someone who has had experience replacing these light engines?

I'd hate to have some novice open up the tv, potentially introduce more problems, and be worse off as a result.

macbillybob

05-11-05, 11:41 AM

60v500
I am out of warranty and no extended warranty.

Is there anything that can be done to repair stuck green pixels? (short of throwing the tv into the dumpster) There are two areas that have a very bright green dot. I am assuming it is more than one pixel. It is quite annoying even from 15 ft. (my typical viewing distance) The first one showed up at the top of the screen and was not a major problem. The latest is in the middle of the screen. Looks like a green pimple on actors/actresses faces.

I read somewhere that they can kill the pixel. A dead pixel wouldn't show up as bad I figure.

mustbreakpar

05-19-05, 10:18 PM

I have a Hitachi 50" LCD 50v500. I have owned it since 12/03. When I first got it, I noticed a couple of dead pixels and some circular smudges. I never got around to calling anyone out to look at the TV. But about a month ago, out of the blue, these patches of green lines appeared. It seems that the lines move a little bit as the TV warms up, but it never goes away even after a couple hours of watching the TV.

Luckily, I have a service plan on the TV (I bought it from HHGregg). They came out and said that the Light Engine needed to be replaced. He said that should fix both of my problems. They are coming out tomorrow, so wish me luck. Anyway, I thought I would post pictures of what the green patches look like. I stumbled upon a scene I thought you might like.

Has anyone else had this issue of "patches of green lines"?

I will let you all know how the repair goes.

Uwish

05-24-05, 07:51 PM

I have seen this on one of the Sony threads. I think it was dirt in the light path, I am not sure if it required a LE replacement or just a good servicing / cleaning. Either way its nothing you can do without a service call....

mustbreakpar

05-24-05, 09:54 PM

Thanks, Uwish.

Well, the service guy never made it to my house last Friday - there was terrible traffic. I have it rescheduled for this Friday. We'll see what happens.

manpig

05-26-05, 12:34 PM

I stumbled upon a scene I thought you might like.

.

i lika! nice pq on the chick in red!

manpig

05-26-05, 12:44 PM

Sup Ho's? Haven't been around in eons. Been catchin up on the readin here and it looks like the infamous red cloud is affecting more and more. I even heard the lovely Ahardt has it too. For those of you that are not sure if you have it or not, there is an easy way to see it. First, make sure your viewing area is pretty dark. Next, go from say Ant A over to one of your other inputs such as input 2. Do not have any signals running to the input you switch to. Look at the screen and you will definitely see it if you have it. At first, I found it very hard to see watching normal tv unless it was late at nite and the room was dark and the scene was dark as well. It definitely got worse. Someone asked if it could possibly be the lamp and I can tell you with certainty that it is not lamp related. I had a new lamp installed yesterday with a new ballast and it was still there. That story to follow in a subsequent post. I do find it interesting that as an early adopter of this set, that the problems I have encountered seem to progress with time to other members here.

manpig

05-26-05, 01:20 PM

Ok, here goes: A new Hit problem to report. Not sure what to name this one. hmmmmmmm
How bout "My freekin TV won't turn on"? It started as we had watched about 4 hrs of tv one evening and shut the tv off and went to bed. The next morning it would not turn on.
I unplugged it and let it sit for about 5 minutes and re-plugged it in and still nothing. I tried several more times and no go. I then went to work. When I came home that evening I tried it again and it came on. ????? wtf? We watched evening tv as usual, shut it off and went to bed. Next morning....same dealio. Nothing. This continued except that the waiting time for it to come on again kept increasing. I placed a service call. A week later the tech came out and took the back lower panel off and looked around and hit the back of his screw driver on some relays on some circuit boards with no luck. He left and said he would need to call Hitachi support and get back to me. He calls me later and tells me they are going to order in a new lamp, a new lamp ballast, a new power board, and a new control board. One of the boards was on back order and I was sitting with this problem from late April until yesterday. As stated prior, the problem got worse and worse and at one point it took a whole week for the set to power up. This happened prob about 10 days before the part was due in and I just left the tv on 24/7. I never turned it off for 10 days or so. Anyway, the tech came yesterday and had all 4 parts he spoke of. He first removed the lower back panel and put in the new lamp and then replaced the ballast. The ballast btw, is a small circuit board and is located above the fan exhaust port. He then tried to power the set up and nothing happened. Next, he removed the subwoofer on the right side of the tv right behind where the power switch is located. He also removed some hardware in this area and it exposed the main power board. He then replaced the main power board and tried the tv and voila it worked. He decided not to replace the main control board they had ordered as it did not seem to be the culprit and it would have taken him several hours to do it. He put everything back together and was about to leave when I stopped him. I then showed him the red cloud. Like other posters here, I decided to play dumb and just see what he would tell me. He started looking thru a file he had of service bulletins and fixes he downloaded and thought he had something on it. He mumbled to me that he thinks the fix is a light engine replacement. He said he would leave the ticket open and report the new problem to my warranty provider which is Circuit City CitiAdvantage. He said it would be up to them whether they want to replace the light engine or do a replacement to a new tv as one poster had occur. (plueeze let that happen). He told me the bill for what he did that day was about $1300 and that since I have had other problems prior, that they might just want to cut their losses and give me a new tv.

This is kind of interesting: I asked him before he left about what would happen to my set if they do in fact replace it. He told me he thought they were suppose to destroy the set, but that he has seen instances where they were resold as open box or display sets at a reduced price. He didn't name names but says they have gotten sets back in for service which they did replacements on. I also asked him about the smudges and screen replacements and asked if this model has been notorious for this problem in his service area. He told me has only done one screen replacement for our model but has done several for smudges on Samsungs. He also told me he has done light engine replacements for banding problems. Thats all for now.

Pig

burdell1

05-26-05, 03:48 PM

I'm getting mine repaired today....hopefully all goes well....

manpig

05-26-05, 05:12 PM

I'm getting mine repaired today....hopefully all goes well....

what is it they are fixing? let us know how it goes.

Uwish

05-27-05, 09:56 AM

It is starting to seem more and more that there is an inherent design flaw in this set. When it works, it works great but when it doesn't (like anything else that doesn't work) it becomes a giant paper weight. So far I have had the smudges (which my screen was replaced) and once my set would not fully shut down. The fan and blue light just kept running, I had to power it up and then down again. And finally, I am starting to suffer from the "red cloud" issue, my unit has 3000hrs on it so far. I am hearing from other sites that any LE replacement has a new re-design mostly with a new, QUIETER fan and when shutting down the set it takes less than a minute instead of the two it takes now. I am REALLY REALLY glad I got the extended warranty at least for another 3 years, I think I am going to wait until the end of the summer before I even request a service call for the red cloud issue. I still love the set, for a first generation LCD RP I knew getting into this, there would be problems that only time would bring to the surface. Despite all its problems, so far, IMHO; it is doing much better than say the first gen Sony LCD RP that was plaqued with critical failures, PS, bulb, ballast and screen issues. I can live with this red cloud until it starts affecting the actual image or begins to push the colour to the red side...

Even two generations later with the 8xx series I am still hearing about some smudging and a green cloud so it seems we still have a ways to go. Lest just hope that Hit is the first to get a bug free set or they will loose allot of customers. I am confident that Hitachi's name will end up being at the front of the pack for widescreens, its just a question of how and when they get ALL the bugs out first.

manpig

05-27-05, 10:18 AM

Thinkin out loud here: If you are a tv mfgr, you really only need to make your product last out the term of the mfgr's warranty which is one year. Beyond that, the warranty providers take over and it is just a matter of customer satisfaction as it relates to the mfgr. It seems to me, that this is becoming less imp to them. They tend to now rush to market with their product without testing their product adequately. The problems we are experiencing (and I believe there are more with problems than without) are happening too fast. I could understand if they happened like say 2 or 3 yrs into the tv's life but that is not the case.
The only conclusion I can draw is that they did not do adequate testing before releasing their product. How would you feel if the car you are driving was this way? Let's see, maybe the steering wheel might quit working at 70 mph on the freeway or sumpin. Geeze!
It makes me mad. It also makes me mad that I trusted the Hitachi name as one company that might be above the rest as it relates to quality control and testing before going to market. Boy was I a fool. With that said, who is any better? Samsung? Sony? RCA? I am guessing that if you follow any thread on the new offerings by any of these mfgrs that they are all guilty in some form of this.

I apologize to any Hitho that read any of my comments early on as to the "greatness" of this set and used those comments in their buying decision.

Uwish

05-27-05, 11:09 AM

Manpig, I totally agree with your argument however, do you really think ANY manufacture would have a test model on the stand running turning it on and off for over a year BEFORE they released it to market? That only happens in the space programs not even with cars. Thats why we hear of recalls etc, I do agree with your point though and I think it stinks that we pay big money for something that will only last a year!!

manpig

05-27-05, 01:13 PM

Simon,

Yeah I think they ought to do that but I must live in a fantasy world. At the very least they ought to be cognizant of the inherent problems that are developing on a particular model.
How many times have I read here where someone calls Hitachi and asks about a problem that we know to be prevelent only to be told they have not heard of this before. Give me a feekin break! It is almost like they have a "bury their head in sand attitude".

Another thing that sorta bugs me is the cost of the EW. I had never in my life bought an EW on anything until this tv. Good thing I purchased one, but it is a damn shame you have to hedge your purchase that way. I really feel for those that did not either because they didn't have the dough at the time or because they thought this was a quality tv and they wouldn't need one.

petej88

05-27-05, 01:19 PM

Toshiba side note: My Toshiba direct view hd tv broke after 5 months. It then took 3 months for Toshiba and the local repair shop to come to terms and actually fix the bloody thing. Folks, Hitachi ain't alone here. It's a universal problem of emphasizing "buy new" and if it breaks, "replace it don't fix it" syndrome. Very sad.

That said, I'm having a 50V710 Hitachi delivered to my house today and I have a full 3 year warranty. I'm looking forward to the new purchase and I hope the general bugs have been worked out since it is supposedly just a tweak of the previous generation. And I couldn't resist buying on the back end and getting a fantastic deal.

Uwish

05-27-05, 01:30 PM

Well, you hit the nail on the head with that statement. How can they still claim there is nothing wrong with the set when every single person on here with issues is describing the SAME issues. I did have somewhat of a fight with Hit Canada and my tech about the smudging issue. He was adamant that is was a LE problem and that his Hit rep said there is no know smudging problem...I have to give them this forum's link in an email before they would say ok to a new screen. Now in Canada Hit does say there were issues with the screen and there is a new manufacturing technique to address it. Sometimes tho, the CSR's really don't know any different, they are just told what to say and may not know there were x number of screen replacements which may in fact, indicate an issue.
Just the fact that so many people were turning on sets with that red push, they actually put out a service bulletin to techs. They got tired of putting in $1000 LE for each unit and realized all it needed was a SM adjustment. Big business WILL learn when it starts to cost money, unfortunately, even in NA, Hit Canada is a totally different beast than Hit US, and likewise with Hit EU etc etc. I still can't believe that it takes this long for info to pass between geomarkets.

burdell1

05-27-05, 11:21 PM

I'm getting the big red blotch fixed. He thought at first it just need to be reset, but then he couldn't find some thing on the menu...and then he found out it was a v500A and then said the light engine needs to be replaced. he said it would be a 4 hour job...argh....maybe I can talk them into replacing it with the 50v710. I bought it from sears (and got the 5 year warranty.)

On a side note, I finally found a place that had one of the 710s on display (the 42v710 at Sears) and found that when I switched the grey bars to black, they stayed black when I turned it back on.....Does the 50v710 do that as well? Grey bars are quite annoying..

petej88

05-28-05, 04:03 AM

On a side note, I finally found a place that had one of the 710s on display (the 42v710 at Sears) and found that when I switched the grey bars to black, they stayed black when I turned it back on.....Does the 50v710 do that as well? Grey bars are quite annoying..

Yes, there is a menu setting for black bars, although I personally like the grey bars because it helps burn in the side bar area more evenly with the main part of the screen while watching 4:3 signal source (grey is in between white and black). Since the TV is grey, the grey bars weirdly blend in kind of nicely.

burdell1

05-28-05, 09:07 AM

Yes, but does it stay on grey when you turn it off and turn it back on? I feel there is no reason for the grey bars since it is an LCD projection TV and those don't burn in permanently.

petej88

05-28-05, 01:57 PM

Yes, but does it stay on grey when you turn it off and turn it back on? I feel there is no reason for the grey bars since it is an LCD projection TV and those don't burn in permanently.

Yes, Hitachi was nice enough to make the black border permanent with power off and on. I think most folks agree with you about liking black borders. Still, I talked to Hitachi and the reason they default the 50v710 to grey bars is simply so all the lcd's can burn in evenly. And yes, with normal home use, lcd displays don't have to worry about burn in.

cheers

MikewL

06-05-05, 09:52 AM

I had my LE replaced a few weeks ago for burn-in. The black side bar area had totally different colors than the center of the screen. I started using grey bars to humor myself and Hitachi, but I'm stillhaving the problem. After only a few hours of watching SD TV I could see a definite line at the side bars.

Even more frustrating is the verticle banding. I had it before the LE replacement, and it's still there. I'm wondering if it is a screen issue or maybe even a power supply issue. I'm thinking I may try one of those super-duper power filters they try to push on you at CC. I've never believed in those before, but then I've never believed in extended warranties before either. ;)

BigBlueBong

06-06-05, 09:25 AM

I tried using the black bars this weekend...which i liked alot actually ( i usually do 4x3 expanded)....but they don't stay on when i turn off my set! very annoying.

I'd be interested to find out your results, Mike for getting rid of the vertical bands.

jmimac351

06-06-05, 10:49 PM

MikewL

06-07-05, 11:36 PM

Well, I tried the Monster power 'filter' surge protector and it did nothing for my verticle banding. I'll call it in tomorrow. And, of course, that $160 brick is going back, too.

BigBlueBong

06-08-05, 10:08 AM

Keep us updated b/c those vertical bands really piss me off when watching HD channels....only really see them in blue fields though......do you see them all the time?

manpig

06-08-05, 11:31 AM

Can someone explain to me how to do the "Memory Init" reset via the service menu? I understand how to get into the service menu, but when I scroll to that option it doesn't seem to want to select it. Is there a certain button you have to hit?

Thanks.

Seems like I remember that happening to me a couple of times when I reset INIT.
I would have to move around in the service menu and then go back to it and it would work. Not sure exactly why.

MikewL

06-10-05, 11:59 AM

Keep us updated b/c those vertical bands really piss me off when watching HD channels....only really see them in blue fields though......do you see them all the time?

Mine seem to show on any color, but only when it's about 50% intensity, if that makes sense. It would be so much easier if they showed up on a whte screen.

serro821

06-11-05, 06:37 PM

I haven't been here in a long while. I was wondering where some of you have your video settings at on your Hit 50v500? I want to get the best picture for my DVD player. Its a Samsung HD841.

serro821

06-11-05, 06:39 PM

I probably should have mentioned that it is hooked up to my DVI.

outlanderbz

06-17-05, 01:02 PM

I haven't been here in a long while. I was wondering where some of you have your video settings at on your Hit 50v500? I want to get the best picture for my DVD player. Its a Samsung HD841.

i am wondering the same thing, i have the 60v500 with the Samsung DVD-850 via component and a DirecTV HD Tivo via DVI.

I would love to see some people post on their settings.

Currently i use this for HD via DirecTV HD Tivo HD10-250 with DVI

Contrast: 90
Brightness: 48
Color: 32
tint: 3 clicks towards green (right)
color temp: standard
Black level: off
Contrast M: Normal

color decoding
red: 51
Green: 45
color: 32

noise reduction: NO
Auto movie Mode: NO

DVD using Samsung HD-850 via component with 1080i upscale (used HDCP off hack)

Contrast: 90
Brightness: 32
Color: 45
tint: 4 clicks towards green (right)
color temp: standard
Black level: off
Contrast M: Normal

color decoding
red: 51
Green: 45
color: 45

noise reduction: NO
Auto movie Mode: NO

I realize that all DVD players are different but i have messed with these settings using DVE so many times my head is about to spin, i wish i wasnt such a "tweaker"

MikewL

06-21-05, 12:18 PM

Keep us updated b/c those vertical bands really piss me off when watching HD channels....only really see them in blue fields though......do you see them all the time?

Looks like I'm getting a THIRD replacement light engine. Hitachi tech support says it's the driver board(s) and they cannot be replaced in the field. He didn't seem to care that the set had this issue with the last LE too. Time to start lobbying for a replacement set. I believe CC policy is 3 times on the same part warrants a replacement. We'll see how it goes. It will probably be a few weeks before it comes in and is installed.

This is frustrating, but at least CC is being cool about it.

BigBlueBong

06-21-05, 12:33 PM

outlander:

i was just checking your settings and you have your red higher than all the others in the color decoding......i've noticed a terrible red push on this set that actually messes w/ the picture (creating horizontal lines)..and i turned down my red considerably.....

do you not have this problem w/ reds?

Uwish

06-23-05, 12:10 AM

Well, I don't see any banding issues but my red cloud is starting to show up on dark screens. I think some time this summer I am going to have to put in a call to the tech...I had my screen replaced over a year ago to fix the smudge issues, other than that my unit has been awesome.

Ten 99

06-23-05, 08:11 AM

Yup. I'm startin to get the red overcast as well. Looks like some time soon I'll be contacting Sears myself. I've had two other service calls. One where the light engine was replaced (earlier on in this thread), and one where the lamp blew prematurely (after about 9 months of use). Other than that, I've been satisfied. After this next call, I may see if it is possible to get this whole thing just replaced with something else. I don't think it's acceptable to have 4-5 service calls on a set in a relatively short period of time. Hopefully that won't have to happen though.

Uwish

06-23-05, 02:52 PM

replacing sets is really up to the retailer and where you buy. There are not many places that will replace the set unless they have some sort of leman law. For me here, with the screen and red cloud all known issues, Hit would have to issue a recall or some other drastic measure before my set ever get replaced. I can't see that happening as I am still hearing of people calling Hit and they claiming there are no known issues with this set. We all know that is BS, and Hit Canada even told me there were known issues with the screen (and smudging). Its going to be like pulling teeth to get them to admit a red cloud issue. Its purley something in the LE that they have not addressed yet or all of you who have had your LE replaced before would not be getting the cloud. Looks like every year a LE will be needed to correct this issue until it starts hitting Hit in the pocket book and they actually take a look at what is going on.

Thats the only reason they redesinged the screen and found a fix for the red push in the SM. They got tired of spending big money on LE etc when all it needed was a SM tweek. And I know the screen is a re-design because hit Canada told me plus the screen they installed was much thinner than the original. I am still very happy with the set, image is still fantastic; I am just glad I still have another 3 years of warranty!

Ten 99

06-24-05, 12:27 AM

Absolutely. I'm just thinking that at some point these "service" calls and parts start to become very cost prohibitive for Hitachi, or in this case Sears. Apparently Sears buys the sets at a reduced rate, because Sears is responsible for even the manufacturer's warranty, and Hitachi is not. I've already had one light engine replaced. If their fix comes down to another LE, we're getting into the point where their profit margine is either small or nil. I still have another 3 years plus worth of warranty. As far as I'm concerned, they can replace LE's all they want for the next 3 years if that's what they want to do. As long as they don't keep me waiting on a part for an extended period of time. The first LE I had to wait for almost 3 weeks for them to get it.

I'm wondering what causes this red cloud. I'm almost wondering if it is caused by some degradation of the polarizers? Who knows.

Uwish

06-24-05, 10:55 AM

the cause is anyone's guess really. RPLCD's is almost entirely the same hardware regardless of model but I do not hear of the Sony's (and others) suffering from this issue. But I honestly do not know enough about the LE in this model to even make an educated guess...

Amazingly Smooth

06-28-05, 03:24 PM

Just wanted to update everyone on my set. I'm out of warranty and have a hot spot on my blue LCD. It doesn't show up right away after power-on but develops over time. Because of this I suspected that maybe it was temperature related--that is if I could keep it cool enough then it would be ok. Well I moved it out from the wall last night, and, sure enough, the hot spot never developed. That's all I know right now, but it is something else to try for those of you out of warranty and having hot spots.

Cheers

68 Z-28

07-02-05, 02:43 AM

Aye. I shoulda red this thread prior to buying a used unit. luckily i didn't get in TOO deep, though it would've been a good payment on a DLP.

I have the Red orb in the middle of the screen. Has anyone contacted Hitachi reguarding this issue? I have no warranty, so i hope this is something minimal that could be fixed. :(

Thanks a million to everyone that's posted in here, I did take the time to read through the whole thread prior to signing up and posting.

MikewL

07-04-05, 12:08 AM

Sorry, 68-Z28, that can only be fixed with a new light engine. At least that is what Hitachi recommends. There are very few, if any, parts of the light engine that can be serviced in the field, according to my field service rep, anyway. I've had several problems with my set and although each had a different symptom, the 'fix' has always been to replace the LE. I'm waiting on my third one now.

When you say you're not in 'too deep', what do you mean? I hope it means you didn't pay much. If you bought it from a store, I would return it immediately if at all possible. It's entirely possible that someone unloaded the set at the first sight of the red cloud because they knew how expensive the fix is. And unfortunately, it only gets worse with time.

rsingleton

07-04-05, 08:47 PM

Last night I noticed a ghosting feature I haven't seen before. When I bring up my DTV grid I get faint second lines on the screen. I noticed the same thing when I loaded a Pixar DVD. On the intro with the Pixar logo I saw a faint double outline of all the letters. I didn't see this when watching a DVD or OTA HD. It's almost like a convergence problem on a RPTV but I don't believe these LCDs sets work that way. Any idea what this might be? I've had the set 18 months or so and never noticed this before. When I watch Sportscenter on something with a crawl I don't notice it. Suggestions?

P.S. Watching Lion King tonight I saw the outlining. Looks like it only appears on the left side of an image.

BigBlueBong

07-05-05, 09:46 AM

rsingleton,

this is a simple service menu fix.....you may be able to fix it yourself, but i'd rather have a tech do it......i saw this when the guy came to fix my light engine, and i asked about the vertical banding issue, and he tried messing w/ the ghost feature.....

rsingleton

07-05-05, 08:18 PM

Thanks, BBB. Can you give me some specfics on what the tech fixed? Or would "vertical banding" get the job done?

MikewL

07-06-05, 08:03 AM

Well, my new set is arriving on Monday. Here's a quick recap:
1) bought the 60V500 from CC in Oct 2003 with 4 yr warranty
2) replaced LE for red cloud
3) replaced LE again for severe burn-in of side bars (for SD programing)
4) third LE replacement was diagnosed for vertical banding, but CC decided on full replacement based on their 'no lemon' policy.

CC was pretty cool about it. They gave me enough credit to get a 60 in 710 model, which I think is the equivalent of what I have. Unfortunately, I've lost faith in Hitachi LCD's, so I moved up to the Sony 60XS955. I will also get the remainder of my warranty refunded.

Good Luck to everyone, I really hope Hitachi can get control of their issues.

BigBlueBong

07-06-05, 09:24 AM

rsingleton,

the tech wasn't able to do anything about the vertical banding.....i think it's a screen issue....but there was a specific tech menu fix called ghosting. but like i said....might want to have a pro do this for ya.

rsingleton

07-06-05, 10:32 AM

How much of the problem did it resolve?

BigBlueBong

07-06-05, 11:53 AM

i didn't have a problem w/ ghosting.....i asked him if that would fix the vertical banding problem....he said no, but demo'd what the ghost function did and said that it would if the problem, had i had one.

rsingleton

07-06-05, 12:23 PM

OK, thanks for the help.

chris431

07-10-05, 01:17 AM

A few weeks ago I first noticed a subtle appearance of a red blotch (aka "red cloud") about a foot wide in the center-right of my screen. It is now extensive enough that it disrupts not only transition scenes but also dark scenes. I have had this television since April 2004.

I have also been the unlucky recipient (as have many others) of a fan that has become noticably louder. At this point, it's quite discernable during any quiet scene and more or less fills the entire living room.

Has anyone who browses AVS and other forums taken note of the proportion of problems related to the red cloud? Anyone interested in a poll? It would seem to me that at a certain point, it becomes apparent that this is a design defect and those without warranties surely shouldn't be bearing the expense of such.

Chris

BMWBig6

07-11-05, 09:33 PM

A poll would certainly interest me.

locojones

07-12-05, 12:26 AM

I would also like to see an option in the poll regarding when the red cloud problem developed. It seems like it begins to emerge after about 12-14 months.

yanks26xwc

07-12-05, 07:57 PM

Attention all Hitho's: Good news, potentially great news for everyone with light engine issues. Seems that Hitachi has finnally come to the realization that the v500 does indeed have some light engine issues. let me catch everyone up... I bought my 1st v500 from CC in Nov 03 (No EW)after returning 2 of them for pixel problems, I found one that i was satisfied with. 8 months later i had no picture in the upper right hand corner of the screen. Called hitachi, light engine replacement #1. 9 months later i start noticing the red cloud, I wait hoping that some how it will just go away. After about 3 months of this it of course worsens and to top it off I'm seeing ghosts. At this point I've thoroughly had it with this television :mad: , I call up Hitachi to express my opinion to them. After talking with their customer relations department, Much to my surprise they tell me that at the very least they will have it fixed and will have one of the service centers come and take a look at the TV to see what the problem is.
The service center shows up a few days later with "Diagnose only" orders. Guy comes in.... Turns the channel and says you need a new LE. I say great bud thanks. I call Hitachi to pass on the result, They say our tech dept will review my case and some will get back to me. A week passes and i get a phone call, They tell me their willing to provide the part if I'm willing to pay for the labor, I reply that I'm not satisfied and ask if theres any other options we can look towards, they say that their covering the cost of the part after my warranty has expired and thats all they can do. I reluctantly agree to their terms. Another week passes (today) I call them up just to ask for an ESD on the LE. The rep gets back on the phone and says that the customer relations dept would like to speak to me, A woman gets on the phone and says that Hitachi is going to get in contact with CC and arrange a return of the TV :D after the return the rest is between me and CC on whether or not i want the same or a different TV.
So if you've had a couple LE replacements give them a call, complain, throw a fit, do whatever it takes until they admit that there's a mfgr defect in the LE and are willing to stand up and deal with it. Sorry for the long read and thanks everyone for all the info on this thread.

Crazy MB

07-13-05, 11:34 AM

wow, haven't visited these boards in a while...the red cloud sure is a big issue!
I first got the red tint problem about the same time as manpig maybe a year ago. That was fixed by the service technician resetting something in the service menu.
Then i got the red cloud a few months ago. Like everyone else, it wasnt bad, so i just ignored it. Now it is pretty untolerable.
3 weeks ago, i calld cc, got the ball rolling on repair under extended warranty.
I called a few days ago and the tech said they ordered a new LE and it woul donly be a couple more days.
Fine.
He calls me back 5 ,minutes later, says the part is on backorder, and won't be shipped until early august at the earliest. He reccomends calling CC because he can't let me take it home, and then have it re-picked up by the tech people.

I called CC, finally got transferred to a manger type phone person, and she was very nice, looke at my info on her screen and said, wow, august, that is way too long. I will put in a request to exchange your TV.
Fine by me. I will know later this afternoon if C will grant this, or if i will be TV-less for another month.

My dilemma is...i will not accept another v500 knowing that it will more than likely only develop this problem in the future.
So the v710s...i was looking at them on the cc website, and the very first customer review i see, says he returned it because it develop[ed a red cloud in the middle of the screen.
So Hitcachi did not fix this problem in the later set.

Does anyone know if the vs810 has this issue as well?
I don't really want to get a different kind of TV because i dont want to have to buy another tv stand, but i might be forced to.

Also, anyone here exchanged their TV through CC's extended warranty program, does the EW continue with then new tv (maybe only 3.5 years left though), do yo uhave to buy a new one?

Thanks

MikewL

07-13-05, 11:59 AM

I just went through a CC replacement this week. My v500 was purchased in Oct 03 and went through 3 LE's (red cloud, burn-in, and then vertical bands). They gave me credit for the closest model to the v500, which is the v710. They also refunded the remainder of my warranty.

I wasn't about to trust Hitachi anymore. I chose a Sony KDF60WF655 for the exact same price. To me, it has a more attractive (black) cabinet, a better picture, and a built in tuner.

Anyway, I still had to pay for a warranty on the new TV, but that was it. I'm VERY satisfied with the whole experience. I was dreading having to convince the techs/managers that my TV was a lemon, but they didn't argue at all.

Crazy MB

07-13-05, 12:01 PM

So they do just give you a credit, and you can buy whatever?
Could i buy a tv that is500 dollars less, and get the warranty with the remainder of the credit?

yanks26xwc

07-13-05, 01:32 PM

The thing i found odd about my situation was the fact that i didn't have an extended warranty, and they (Hitachi) still are willing to authorize a return on the tv. furthermore they're not requiring me to purchase an equivalent Hitachi tv.

MikewL

07-14-05, 01:51 PM

I would assume you could spend less and apply the difference to the warranty. Heck, you could probably spend the $500 on DVD's or something, but I doubt seriously they would give you $ back.

Crazy MB

07-15-05, 09:20 AM

CC was cool about it, I just had a credit for the amount i spent on the TV and so was able to get a Tv and warranty and only had to pay about 90 bucks out of pocket to cover the warranty.
I ended up with the sony 55 inch. My wife wanted the 56 inch samsung DLP, but it would have cost us about 200 more out of pocket, so we went for the sony.
Its too bad, i really liked my Hitachi while it worked, and maybe the v810 wouldnt have had this issue.
Oh well, thats why i got the EW, so i wouldnt have to worry about my TV, and it definitely paid off.
Good luck all with your v500s. I hope the later builds solved these issues and LE replacements are infact the long term answer, not just another 6 month-a year answer until it happens again.

Oh, and the CC in my area claimed it was part of a tets market, maybe they were just blowin smoke up my arse, but the 4 year EW is now $100 dolars less than it was a year and a half ago.

googinb

07-21-05, 05:15 PM

I have a blue 'cloud'. Everyone in the middle of the set looks like a smurf!! My warranty expired in Jan this year and after reading posts on here I was panicking with thought of replacing parts and labor! Then I thought to call the Credit Card Company to see if they extend the warranty, THANK GOD THEY DOUBLED IT!! Serviceman's coming on Monday and I have to pay for initial estimate and they'll reimburse. Only problem is it take 5 business days after they get the estimate to approve the repair or allow me to get a new set. Seems a lot of people are having this problem just after the manufactorers warranty runs out. I also noticed not too long after I bought my 50v500 (1/04), they seemed to of discontinued them. I also purchased mine from CC with the way overpriced plastic stand!

SeaWolf11

07-24-05, 05:39 PM

Have read through this entire thread and thought I did my homework on these models by seeing them at CC and Sears along with the high reviews from Cnet. I felt the picture was far superior than any of the other models on display.
I opted for the later 50V710 with the built in tuner and stand. My problem is that there is a yellow hue or tint on the entire top 2 inchs or so of the screen and a blueish one inch hue or tint on the right bottom of the screen. It isn't that bad just anoying and should not be there at all. It doesn't matter what the video source is either. Made some reccomended ajustments from this thread but to no avail. The clue is that even in Screen Wipe these tints or hues are visable. You can turn the color down to 0 and they are still present.The unit is only 2 weeks old with a 4 year extended warranty but I bought it off the Net so have no recourse with local stores. I emailed Hatichi customer support thinking they would give me a simple sub menu fix but they said to call in for service, which I will do tomorrow. Sure hope I don't get caught up in some of this threads horror stories. Have not even put up my new hdtv antenna yet. I have owned and still own a 6 year 55" rpct Hatichi that has never needed anything but an ocasional cleaning. Thanks in Advance for any input as to my problem.

serro821

08-08-05, 01:32 AM

I am having trouble with ghosting on my 50v500. I have a satillite HD 811 reciever from Dish Network. I am also getting ghosting images with my Xbox and PS2.

Is anyone else having these problems? If so, what are some possible solutions.

BigBlueBong

08-08-05, 11:16 AM

it's a service menu tweak....i'd recommend calling in the extended warranty if you have one......

serro821

08-08-05, 01:58 PM

it's a service menu tweak....i'd recommend calling in the extended warranty if you have one......

Just called Sears. They're sending someone down tomorrow. :D

ohstate

08-08-05, 07:54 PM

Just called Sears. They're sending someone down tomorrow. :D

Sears did a great job fixing my ghosting. Took all of 15 minutes, and the tech stayed a bit longer to make sure everything else was good.

I feel fortunate after reading this thread to have escaped most of the issues. I bought in January '04, and aside from the ghosting, I've had no issues. (knock on wood)...

locojones

08-12-05, 07:24 PM

Sears was here today to diagnose the red blob. Not surprisingly, they recommend a light engine change. Unfortunately, they also said the LE would solve the green smudge on the screen *sigh*

However, the part list on his laptop showed two selections - one new, one rebuilt. The service center authorized him to order the rebuilt light engine. I'm naturally concerned about the replacement of the guts of the set with a refurb part instead of a new one.

Can anyone validate whether their LE replacement was new or rebuilt?

On my service ticket, the part number is "Sub light engine - UX22202DR"

Thanks!

spider1

08-17-05, 08:29 PM

Has anyone seen a red cloud in the center of the v500? My set is 18 months old with a little over 1000hrs on the original bulb. I had a tech fix the red screen a few months back but this cloud has steadily grown over the past few weeks. It makes white lettering on black backgrounds glow when they pass over it.

MikewL

08-18-05, 08:53 AM

Read this thread.

aressa

08-18-05, 10:34 PM

Well, service came out to fix my Red Cloud today. The tech showed up at 10:30am, took one look at the screen and said "be right back, I have a light engine in the truck".

An hour or so later, he tells my wife (I was not home) "Well, your TV will not be ready today", and he held up a sheared ribbon cable. Seems that when he was putting back together the unit he managed to clamp the ribbon cable between two metal parts, shearing it almost in half. So, he's expiditing that part, and is replacing it Saturday.

BUT - interesting note: When he was taking apart the light engine he pointed out to my wife that the last light engine (this is #4, including the original) was not exhausted properly. The exhaust "manifold" was not properly tied into the back vents, and was venting back inside the unit, actually discoloring the plastic on the bottom of the TV. He said it was almost certainly the cause of failure...

So, we'll see Saturday what the end product ends up like...

spider1

08-19-05, 03:54 PM

With sears carrying extra light engines in the truck it makes you wonder how many of these things are bad. Does anyone have an estimate of the % of v500 that have had light replacements? This sounds like it should be a factory recall because it is becoming evident that this is a design flaw.

aressa

08-20-05, 06:09 PM

So, service just came back (not Sears, by the way, this is a place that covers my extended warranty).

They spent an hour agonizing over the ribbon cable (it's actually one of those tape-leads, if anyone has experience with them, the connectors are a PAIN). Once they got it in, the fired up the TV and the picture was only green. More play with the cable, and still green.

So, they did the next best thing: I got my old Red-Cloud light engine back in. They are off to order another (they must have known that it needed it when they brought it last time).

So, I'll update again when I get the new light engine.

locojones

08-23-05, 08:52 PM

Sears showed up today to replace the light engine. I'd estimate the whole process took them no more than 45 minutes, and about 15 of those I think were spent removing the vast number of screws holding this set together. Both service people were knowledgable and very pleasant and when they powered the set back up, the infamous red blob was gone *hooray!*

Surprisingly, I think the new LE also eliminated my vertical banding problem.

Who would've thought that the silly little extended warranty would've paid for itself 2.5x over with just one service call. Wow.

spider1

08-26-05, 11:14 AM

I called Hitachi and they put me in contact with a service center. They are picking my set up today and taking it to there shop for diagnosis. Hitachi has agreed to pay for the labor on what ever the repair is but wants me to pay for the parts. My warranty is up but I had the red screen of death a few months back while under warranty. The tech simply reset the memory instead of replacing the light engine which I believe was the correct repair. I am getting nervous they offered labor instead of repair because the light engine cost so much. If it does I am going to call the customer service department and let them know about it. Rumor is a new one cost over a grand. I can get a new set for about 2 grand and not have to worry about the light engine going out in the future. DLP seems to be the most stable from what I have heard. Any comments?

yanks26xwc

08-26-05, 03:31 PM

Spider, How many service calls have you had with your tv? I was on what would have been my third light engine and after some conversations with management they agreed to authorize a return of my tv back to CC. So if I were you I'd call them and talk to a manager.

spider1

08-26-05, 05:39 PM

This is my second service call. The first call simply reset the memory on the set. Once the tech determines the replacement part cost I am planning on calling Hitachi back to see if they will pay for the parts. I doubt I can get a return as the set is out of the one year warranty and I did not purchase the EW because all the reviews and Sears said the set was rock solid. The Sears sales person warned me against Sony and said Hitachi was the best way to go. I will inquire about a return.

With your return did you have to get another Hitachi?

yanks26xwc

08-26-05, 06:22 PM

I dont have to get another hitachi and i had the tv for two years and no EW. earlier in this thread i explained the entire situation and what the end result was. (pg 28, 7/12/05) the resetting of the memory is just a temp fix, The light engine was bad to begin with. I would expect Hitachi to care of you.

BigBlueBong

08-29-05, 12:21 PM

Rapplin

09-02-05, 09:50 AM

Does anyone have a PC hooked up to their display? I am playing around w/ this now.

However I can't seem to get the display to fit the screen properly. More specifically, I have an nvidia running via dvi. I am using the keystone properties to adjust the desktop to fit the tv. but when i open media center...it goes back to stretching beyond my borders. Someone on here must have a PC hooked up! please help, i've tried so many settings and I'm going nuts!

I have an ATI 9700 PRO AIW card, however I can tell you that the optimal resolution is 1776 x 1000 Interlaced, or 1216 x 664 Progressive. Hope this helps. I wouldn't know how you can tweak your display using Nvidia, but ATI drivers allow you to push a default resolution (say 1280 x 720) and then in the advanced section of Drivers (in the chosen display of course) you can then use buttons to increase/decrease the horizontal and vertical size of the screen in small increments. After this is done, the aforementioned resolutions will fit TV practically PERFECT. Even if you are playing a game (that supports Custom Res's) you can choose either Res and voila! One thing to note, I had to load a monitor driver for the second display (in this case 50v500) that could go up to 1080 x 1920i) I have a custon driver actually, but you don't need it, any medium to higher end monitor driver should work (fine print: "SHOULD" lol )
Good luck.
EDIT ---> I just noticed you are running using DVI connection... I WAS doing that and using Powerstrip to set custom resolutions, but ATI then came out with a much better driver and now I only use the HDTV Adapter (which uses component connection) Again, my setup does not use the DVI connection. If you are wondering, the picture quality is just the same.

BigBlueBong

09-02-05, 09:56 AM

Thanks.....I'll try those resolutions! may also try powerstrip if i can't get the nvidia options to work. If none of this works...then i'll try component, see if that changes anything....thanks again!

digimat

09-02-05, 01:14 PM

I had conflict issues with powerstip and nvidia drivers, I could never get consistent results.
once I uninstalled powerstip and upgraded my drivers worked like a charm.

BigBlueBong

09-02-05, 01:17 PM

what are your setting for the nvidia? are you connected through dvi/component? thanks man! glad to hear someone else out there is using this tv for a htpc! gotta love this forum.

digimat

09-02-05, 01:41 PM

I am using or was using dvi to hdmi, just go through the nividia tv wizard and it should set up easily, at least it did for me... you might have to adjust the overscan slightlly to get your desktop to fit on your display exactly.

good luck

bphisig

09-02-05, 01:53 PM

I just bought a 50v500 about a month ago. Since then, I have read this thread and the red blob problem terrifies me. Right now my picture looks just fine.

Does this happen with every single 50v500 or are there some sets that never experience this problem? I have a 3 year warranty from Sears. It appears that CC is pretty cooperative with the issues mentioned on this thread...can the same be said about Sears?

BigBlueBong

09-02-05, 01:56 PM

didn't get the red blob....but i got some green/blue clouds that required a light engine replacement.....

MikewL

09-03-05, 08:50 PM

Tough to guess a failure rate on the red cloud. If you are just in love with the set, get an extended warranty. I had my set replaced by CC and went with the Sony KDF model. I personally think it's a much better set all around.

Hounsfield

09-05-05, 08:49 PM

Does this happen with every single 50v500 or are there some sets that never experience this problem? I have a 3 year warranty from Sears. It appears that CC is pretty cooperative with the issues mentioned on this thread...can the same be said about Sears? Hi bphisig. I was an early adopter of the 50V500, and bought mine from Sears with a 5 year protection agreement. I haven't had any problems (knock on wood), except for an early bulb failure, which was promptly taken care of by Sears. I think there are probably a lot of other happy owners out there; you just don't hear from them as often, since they're not online trying to diagnose their TV's ailments. Best wishes! ;)

googinb

09-06-05, 12:30 PM

spider1

09-09-05, 02:34 PM

googinb,

do you have a v500 or a v500a? do you know if it will be mid november for both models or if the v500 and the v500a use the same light engine?

Uwish

09-09-05, 04:54 PM

all v500 series use the same LE. The only difference with the A model, is it had one or two designe fixes but the LE is identical.

aressa

09-10-05, 12:16 AM

Bad news for anyone who needs a new light engine, they are on back order and eta is 11/18/05 per Tritronicsinc. This really pisses me off. I have a TV that I paid close to $4000 that has a blue picture, it went bad in little over a year and have to wait for it to be fixed. Seems Hitatchi sould reimburse me some money for ruining my daily television viewing!My wife called to check on the status of our service today and go the same news. They said that they are working with Hitachi and GE (our extended warranty is through GE) to come up with a solution that will make us happy. I'm going to try to lobby for a buy-back or something. I've had enough of these light engines, I don't think I could ever be happy with the TV at this point.

DangerMouse1964

09-13-05, 04:23 PM

Given the title of the thread, I'd say this isn't a good place to find folks that *haven't* had issues with the set.

I've had what really ended up being minor issues with the set in the first 6 months or so, since then I haven't had a problem (coming up on 2 years owning it now).

Uwish

09-14-05, 08:37 AM

That is good news. I am going on 2 years now and I have had almost no issues with the unit until a few months ago when I noticed the "red cloud" on dark screens. I contacted our local tech department and he says that according to Hit, my unit (with said SN#) should not be suffering from the red cloud issue. At least I got some form of acknowledgment that there was a red cloud issue, the tech is coming out this morning to see the fantom cloud I am not supposed to have :)

Uwish

09-14-05, 01:02 PM

Sure enough, the tech came out to take a look and said, yup, definately a red cloud. New LE....

Now we wait.

spider1

09-16-05, 03:08 PM

I found out today from the service tech that my "red cloud" issue was also caused by the light engine. Called Hitachi and they would not admit that there is a design issue with the v500's light engine. Hitachi did offer to pay for the part "which they control the price on" and I pay the labor to have it fixed. They assured me that light engine part number ux22201D is available with no wait. Once I get this thing fixed I am seriously thinking about selling it out of fear the light engine will simply fail again. At least I can enjoy the rest of football season in hd.

Uwish

09-17-05, 01:26 AM

This isn't the first time Hit Canada has told me one thing (ie, screen smudges, LE issues etc etc) and everyone in the US is told something else by Hit US division. I find it hard to beleive that Hit knows nothing about all these issues. Escpecially since EVERY V500 owner I know (and that is now 4 personally) and many more on here, have all had the same issues.

I sure hope the V525 doesn't run into the same issues. When the tech came out to look at my set he specifically called Hit and gave my SN# etc and was told that this model (V500A) should not be suffering from the red cloud issue but it clearly is. Hence, they are ordering a LE for replacement.

Not to impressed with the level of consistancy we are seeing out of Hit, this is supposed to be the same company just different divisions!!!!

Rapplin

09-19-05, 08:48 AM

Hey guys, my 50v500A is in the shop as we speak. I purchased it in Feb of last year, so had it approx 1 1/2 yrs. The red cloud started rearing its ugly head months ago, gradually getting worse, finally I called to have it taken care of.

Wouldn't you know it.... An LE replacement is in the works!! I would never have guessed! >smirk<

Been in for 9 days now, awaiting LE with Wednesday as the ETA.
Hitachi has without doubt a problem with the LE's on these sets, that is just as sure as saying Kelloggs has the most corn flakes in distribution! LOL

Well, Hopefully I will have er' back by the end of the week... 2 weeks now watching TV on my ol' 21 inch is KILLING ME!

One good thing though, I did get an extended warranty...

This isn't the first time Hit Canada has told me one thing (ie, screen smudges, LE issues etc etc) and everyone in the US is told something else by Hit US division. I find it hard to beleive that Hit knows nothing about all these issues. Escpecially since EVERY V500 owner I know (and that is now 4 personally) and many more on here, have all had the same issues.

I sure hope the V525 doesn't run into the same issues. When the tech came out to look at my set he specifically called Hit and gave my SN# etc and was told that this model (V500A) should not be suffering from the red cloud issue but it clearly is. Hence, they are ordering a LE for replacement.

Not to impressed with the level of consistancy we are seeing out of Hit, this is supposed to be the same company just different divisions!!!!

spider1

09-21-05, 02:56 PM

Update,

Called the service "repair" shop today. I was told my LE is on backorder. Called Hitachi to verify and it is on back order. They told me last week the part was available. They also told me there were no known issues with the light engine. Why is there a shortage of parts if there are no problems. There is constantly a shortage of these parts because everyone needs them because there are problems with the LCD display. Simple fact. Hitachi lies to people. When I asked when I could get the parts they said they did not know even though last week they said they would work to expedite the part. When I asked why it was on back order, "do not know", how many on back order "do not know", how many have been made "do not know". I am know 25 days without a set, several months without a set that works properly, and no idea when I will get it back. If this was a $500.00 set I would just write it off to learning that Hitachi has a poor product, but this set cost what a used car cost. Now I am stuck with it and do not even have it. I also have an high dollar stand that is not being used, upconversion dvd player that is not being used, can not play the x-box, and paying a sat. bill for nothing.

I would like to officially start the count of members of this posting who have had to have a light engine replaced. If you have had to replace more than one count the 2nd, 3rd, ext.

Light Engine Replacement Count = 1

Rapplin

09-21-05, 05:21 PM

In the shop... official word is 'LE Replacement"
They are awaiting delivery of the LE... I was told they would get it today.... I didn't hear from them...... I have a bad feeling about this..... as per what Spider and a few others have said. Mine been gone for 2 weeks now, if I am waiting much longer, I am going to freak on them... we'll see what happens.
I as well am paying MONEY for cable, HD feed etc.....

Add another LE to the list....
(I added a user list, to make it simple to track in case someone forgot they already added themselves, hope ya don't mind Spider

LIGHT ENGINE REPLACEMENT COUNT = 2
USERS
- Spider1
- Rapplin

Update,

Called the service "repair" shop today. I was told my LE is on backorder. Called Hitachi to verify and it is on back order. They told me last week the part was available. They also told me there were no known issues with the light engine. Why is there a shortage of parts if there are no problems. There is constantly a shortage of these parts because everyone needs them because there are problems with the LCD display. Simple fact. Hitachi lies to people. When I asked when I could get the parts they said they did not know even though last week they said they would work to expedite the part. When I asked why it was on back order, "do not know", how many on back order "do not know", how many have been made "do not know". I am know 25 days without a set, several months without a set that works properly, and no idea when I will get it back. If this was a $500.00 set I would just write it off to learning that Hitachi has a poor product, but this set cost what a used car cost. Now I am stuck with it and do not even have it. I also have an high dollar stand that is not being used, upconversion dvd player that is not being used, can not play the x-box, and paying a sat. bill for nothing.

I would like to officially start the count of members of this posting who have had to have a light engine replaced. If you have had to replace more than one count the 2nd, 3rd, ext.

Light Engine Replacement Count = 1

ExDeus

09-21-05, 07:20 PM

I've had my 50V500 for over a year now and I've just recently started seeing a problem that sounds similar to the problem Amazingly Smooth was having (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=3235334&&#post3235334) that some surmised was from edge enhancement.

Perhaps I'm seeing the same thing on my set, but it really doesn't appear like any EE I've seen before. My problem sounds much more pronounced. I'm partly wondering if anyone has seen such an issue, and partly I want to document it here for any who might see it in the future:

Darker objects produce a ghost / shadow on lighter backgrounds.
The ghosting / shadowing is always on the left / left-top of the darker object.
The ghosting extends about a full centimeter to the left of the darker object.
Setting the side panels for 4:3 content from gray to black produces a very clear demonstration --- a darkened grayish area, 1 cm wide, all the way down the right side panel (but not the left side panel, since the shadow shifts to the left).
EPG or any on-screen text or graphics also clearly exhibit the ghosting.
The ghosting occurs at least on DVI and component inputs, on analog and digital video content, and including HD, SD, and analog cable TV, as well as DVD sources.

I have a call in for EW service and I'm currently waiting to schedule an appointment. I will post an update.

MikewL

09-22-05, 09:01 AM

LIGHT ENGINE REPLACEMENT COUNT = 2
USERS
- Spider1
- Rapplin

Add me to the list. 2 LE's installed under extended warranty. 3rd was diagnosed, but I lobbied for and received a replacement TV. Sony rocks so far. So count me as 3 LE replacements over ~18 mos.

LIGHT ENGINE REPLACEMENT COUNT = 5
USERS
- Spider1
- Rapplin
- MikeWL

aressa

09-22-05, 08:04 PM

I've had my light engine replaced 4 times in 18 months. (I won't count the two times that I had V500 light engines put in instead of the V500A version because the service center did not pay attention and ordered the wrong ones).

The last one was done today. No more red cloud!

Now to fire up DVE and re-calibrate.... sigh.

-------
I just recalibrated the color, and I want to cry.

Color looks vibrant and matched well, but then I noticed the vertical banding. It's bad, I don't even know what to say about it...

(Just to clarify, the big dark spots are dust on my camera... I need to invest in a can of air!)

http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/9641/50v500banding6es.th.jpg (http://img227.imageshack.us/my.php?image=50v500banding6es.jpg)

spider1

09-23-05, 09:36 AM

aressa,

I am putting you down as 2 light engine replacements.

LIGHT ENGINE REPLACEMENT COUNT = 7
USERS
- Spider1 = 1
- Rapplin =1
- MikeWL =3
-aressa =2

Does anyone know if the memory reset and the red blob issue are connected in anyway? What has me worried at this point is the fact that 2 out of the four people on this list have had to have a second light engine replaced. Is it the hardware or is this thing so sensitive that it needs a "clean room " and some techs are not following proper procedures? Either way the information I am seeing does not give me a warm fuzzy about getting my light engine replaced. By the way I called Hitachi again yesterday and they still can not tell me when my light engine will be in. 29 days without my 3K set and still do not know if I will be waiting another month or more.

Ruprecht

09-23-05, 10:25 AM

New to the site...

Thank heavens this site exists, or I never would have known that the red cloud was the issue that it is. I would have had to believe Hitachi when they told me on the phone yesterday that they'd never heard of this type of issue before. I'm so angry that they'd lie like that. Oh well, one step at a time. After calling the local service folks (which I used last year for a warranty issue with screen smudging), I called Hitachi back to let them know that the service rep. figured I'd need a new light engine and that it would run around $1500. Since I bought my set in Oct 03 at CC without an extended warranty, I went on to explain how disappointed I was. The customer service rep. put me on hold for a short while. He came back and offered to cover the cost of the service call to diagnose the issue, but would not commit to covering the repair until after the diagnosis. He said we'd tackle that once we knew for sure what the problem is (like I don't know already from reading this thread!). They are coming Tuesday to pick up the set.

I'm really hoping I can get Hitachi to agree to a replacement like I've read some others be offered so that I don't end up with the same issue in a year or so. If anyone has any suggestions or advice on how to successfully suggest the replacement solution to Hitachi, I'd appreciate it!

Thanks folks...I owe you for sharing!

MikewL

09-23-05, 10:41 AM

Color looks vibrant and matched well, but then I noticed the vertical banding. It's bad, I don't even know what to say about it...

So sorry to hear you have the vertical banding issue. At least you were able to capture it well on the picture. With that as a reference, you should have no trouble convincing the tech that there is something wrong. My second LE had vertical banding and it drove me crazy. It was the final straw.

I'd call them right away and start working on a replacement if possible. Might even start working on the store you bought it from. Maybe they can help.

spider1

09-23-05, 02:02 PM

Ruprecht ,

It is true that Hitachi will not admit to problems with the light engine. I also can not believe that there have not been any recalls or lawsuits for this problem.
I am putting you down as needing a light engine replacement. The list is growing very fast. Maybe in a few weeks we can share the number with Hitachi.

LIGHT ENGINE REPLACEMENT COUNT = 8
USERS
- Spider1 = 1
- Rapplin =1
- MikeWL =3
-aressa =2
-Ruprecht =1

BigBlueBong

09-23-05, 02:09 PM

ooh, ooh....add me too....had a replacement w/in 3 months of having my tv....had blue and green blobs....no red ones....yet!

yanks26xwc

09-23-05, 02:27 PM

Hey Spider1, Mark me down for a couple LE's please.

zaza4

09-23-05, 03:07 PM

One more LE here also. Due to the infamous Red Cloud.

spider1

09-23-05, 03:28 PM

LIGHT ENGINE REPLACEMENT COUNT = 12
USERS
- Spider1 = 1
- Rapplin =1
- MikeWL =3
-aressa =2
-Ruprecht =1
-BigBlueBong =1
-yanks26xwc =2
-zaza4 =1

locojones

09-23-05, 06:03 PM

Please add me to the list for 1 LE replacement. I had it replaced to remove the red blob, and while it also appeared to also minimize the vertical banding from what it was before, it certainly did not eliminate it. And I suspect the banding is slowly coming back.

aressa

09-23-05, 06:12 PM

I've had *six* light engines in my TV... I was not counting the two that were the wrong part. Bumping myself to 4 (and counting!)

LIGHT ENGINE REPLACEMENT COUNT = 14
USERS
- Spider1 = 1
- Rapplin =1
- MikeWL =3
-aressa =4
-Ruprecht =1
-BigBlueBong =1
-yanks26xwc =2
-zaza4 =1

Ten 99

09-23-05, 08:34 PM

I've had one so far, but I'm fixing to need another one. I have the red cloud now, but I haven't called it in yet. I originally had the LE replaced after about six months or so of ownership. It was due to one of the LCD panels going bad. It left a tattoo of a weird digital anomoly on my screen. I have seen other people in Sony threads that have had the problem I had on my original LE on their sets (so that at least wasn't just a Hitachi thing). This polarizer problem that we're having now (and I believe that's what it is) is something I've seen on LCD front projectors, but not rear projectors other than the Hitachis.

I should add that I have had my set for two years now.

GoBig

09-23-05, 11:15 PM

Wish I had never come back to this forum. I have been seeing my set slowly develop the red cloud for the past few months but I did not know that there was a name for it. This sucks. I was reluctant to buy a LCD tv in the first place and I had some initial problems with my first set that I ended up returning. to CC. I have had this set for about 2 years now and I just cant believe that this is the life of the LE that they intended. We need to start contacting BBB for a lemon claus or a class action.

Oh and I also have a purple vertical band that can be seen on black backgrounds.

Guess I need to start contacting Hitachi.

chris431

09-24-05, 11:53 AM

Red Cloud +1
Model = 50v500A
Developed = 14-15 months of use

I'm also experiencing the red cloud defect. Although it hasn't been diagnosed by a technician (Oct. 3 appointment), it's safe to say that an LE replacement will be needed. The red cloud started developing around 14-15 months after the 50v500A was first purchased new.

Please let me recommend that poll participants list their TV model and at what age of the TV the problem started developing. In previous posts, it was indicated that this was an issue for the 50v500 but not for the 50v500A. Subsequent information indicates otherwise. Also, it will help to clarify whether it's happening with just the 50" model or the v500(A) series. There also seems to be a strong indication that it happens at 14-16 months.

Chris

locojones

09-24-05, 05:05 PM

Please let me recommend that poll participants list their TV model and at what age of the TV the problem started developing. In previous posts, it was indicated that this was an issue for the 50v500 but not for the 50v500A. Subsequent information indicates otherwise. Also, it will help to clarify whether it's happening with just the 50" model or the v500(A) series. There also seems to be a strong indication that it happens at 14-16 months.

That's my suspicion as well. I have a 50v500A and would estimate that my cloud emerged at about the 14month stage.

GoBig

09-24-05, 06:21 PM

I have the 50V500 and I would say it was in the 14-16 month time frame that I first noticed the Red cloud but I have been ignoreing it because it is out of warantee. Since it seems Hitachi is willing to fix the LE I will try to contact them. I would love to get a new set under the lemon law though.

Uwish

09-24-05, 09:41 PM

well, this is a first generation LCD RP, and we have to expect issues. That being said, Hit told me my unit with my SN# should NOT be affected by this red cloud issue but...you can now put me down as getting a new LE. Its now on order.

DHammer

09-26-05, 08:14 AM

Folks,

I purchased my 50v500 last summer. Within 10 months I noticed the red cloud. The repairman is coming tomorrow with a new LE. It took a month for the part to arrive. Hopefully this LE will outlive the light bulb!

Please add me to the count.

Regards

spider1

09-26-05, 09:21 AM

LIGHT ENGINE REPLACEMENT COUNT = 20
USERS
- Spider1 = 1
- Rapplin =1
- MikeWL =3
-aressa =4
-Ruprecht =1
-BigBlueBong =1
-yanks26xwc =2
-zaza4 =1
-locojones =1
-ten99 =2
-chris431 =1
-uwish= 1
-DHammer =1

Rapplin

09-26-05, 10:31 AM

I have the 50v500a. Purchased in Feb of 2004.
Red cloud started to appear approx March 2005, so about 13 months. Gradually got worse...... and yes I only now got around to sending it in! :-0

>>UPdate on my LE.... NEW ETA for LE from manufacturer...... OCT 12 2005
Go figure..... this sucks ... however I did get them to extend the warranty another 3 months, I getting a 40 some odd inch loaner (not HD, but oh well) AND $50.00 gift certificate with no minimum purchase to spend to use it.
At least they are going the distance somewhat to appease, even though its Hitachi's problem they are taking the rap for...
I have updated the list ....

LIGHT ENGINE REPLACEMENT COUNT = 20
USERS
- Spider1 = 1
- Rapplin =1 (50v500a, 13 months in... red cloud)
- MikeWL =3
-aressa =4
-Ruprecht =1
-BigBlueBong =1
-yanks26xwc =2
-zaza4 =1
-locojones =1
-ten99 =2
-chris431 =1
-uwish= 1
-DHammer =1

spider1

09-27-05, 10:24 AM

Rapplin,

How long have you been waiting for your LE?

How long did they take to get you an ETA?

Rapplin

09-27-05, 11:34 AM

Rapplin,

How long have you been waiting for your LE?

How long did they take to get you an ETA?

On the Sat Sept 17/05 they picked it up, I was told to call back sometime next week near Wednesday for ETA. I called back on Tuesday, said to call tomorrow.
Called Wednesday, no update yet, day not over they said.
Called Thursday, cause I didn't hear from them Wednesday, said 'let me get back to you".... I received call later Thursday Sept 22/05 indicating NO ETA and part was on backorder.....
I left it till Friday, called them, expressed my dismay, supervisor called me Friday night..... I then went through all of what I mentioned above.... told the sob story of being without TV.... said for PR purposes and customer relations it is pretty sad I have to wait THIS long......even though I understood they weren't to blame...
On the same Friday Sept 23, I was told that the NEW ETA was Oct 12, so I did in fact have this ETA date just before the supervisor called me.
All in all, it sucks, and that is what I told them..... too long of a wait, and regardless that my warranty doesn't stipulate anything to this effect (no set time period for waiting for part if broke and needs fixing) that I wasn't too pleased.

I suppose a bit of empathy was thrown my way, but lets not forget that companys always have money or have set aside some incentives for this type of scenario....

RaP

gibbyscott

09-28-05, 12:11 AM

Wow, I have not been on this board in a while. Good to see people are still talking about the Hitachi. Anyways, I have the 60v500, bought it in Oct of 2003. I am not having issues with the red cloud - at least I dont think so - but I am having stuck pixels appear now. Sucks! I have one bright blue one near the center of the screen. I am guessing I need to have the light engine replaced? I am reluctant to call Circuit City, just because I do not want my tv taken away. I think I am also seeing some ghosting - especialy with the grey side bars in 4:3 mode.

jchas41

09-30-05, 07:13 PM

Add me to the list! Had a 50V500, I have had the screen (smudges) and light engine replaced (red blob), now finally, CC is replacing the unit with a 50V720. Hope the 720 is a big improvement! Good luck.

TTA89

09-30-05, 07:22 PM

I bought my TV October of 2003 and I have the red cloud issue on a black screen. So far the picture still looks ok, just when changing scences and you get the quick black screen I see pinkish black instead of black.

I didn't buy the warranty so I'm basically screwed. I'll deal with it as long as I can and then buy another Non-Hitachi TV.

My parents 50V has the same issue, thats a January 04 set but they have the extended warranty. I just need to setup a service call and go through the BS that there isn't an issue.

Maybe I'll try a Samsung the next time around... with a 5 year warranty.

1500 for a Light Engine replacement, I was in CC yesterday and they had an open box floor model 50v500 for 1300. LOL

klaang

10-02-05, 12:18 AM

I was searching for answers to another question on this TV this morning. Saw lots of posts on certain problems. Go out for the day, come home turn on the set to watch a DVD and damm the red screen of death...lol. I about died right there. I guess it is not noticable during regular tv watching yet since I haven't noticed it. We had noticed that some DVDs seemed to be really dark lately. We purchased in dec 03 from CC. We do have the EW. I guess I will be calling them although I am also worried of creating other problems trying to fix this one.

Thanks for the great forum. Very useful.

ZJedi01

10-03-05, 01:43 PM

Well add me to the list of red blobs. Same as the last couple posters. I bought the TV in Feb of 2004. Red blob is showing up when changing video inputs/channels, but doesnt show up in picture yet. So I'm guessing its just a matter of time. Wife is beyond pissed (as well as I am) that a $3000 piece of equipment doesnt last longer than 2 years. (having a hard time in convincing her in ever spending that kind of money on something like this again....i get the look of death any time the subject comes up) .

Of course I didnt buy the extended warranty from CC. Thought spending $500 on a warranty to add 2 years of coverage was silly considering that in 2 years you can probably replace the TV for twice that (which isnt to far off the mark).

Having a really tough time on deciding what to do. Since I dont have the warranty, Im going to live with it until It causes the TV to become unwatchable. But then I will have to either spend the $1000 to get it fixed or for that money I can buy a HDTV projector for that money. But hate to basically waste $3000 (if the tv had lasted like 10 years it wouldnt be considered waste but considering its only been 2 I consider that a huge waste).

Any suggestions? Has anyone been succesfull in getting Hitatchi to stand behind their product and fix it for just the cost of labor? Does anyone think I could get a sympathetic ear from Hitatchi since Im only out of warranty by 7 months?

This just really eats at my nerves and pisses me off to no end...makes me nervous to buy something to replace this...and I love my HD, but have a feeling if it was up to the WAF (wife acceptance factor) she just as well go back to the standard old tube TVS.

digimat

10-03-05, 02:44 PM

you should talk to a Hitachi rep, see if they will replace the LE.... some others in this forum have had some luck in doing so.

chris431

10-03-05, 02:56 PM

Update. The Sears technician just left confirming my earlier diagnosis of light engine defect. It didn't take more than a few seconds for him to diagnose the problem and the fix (light engine replacement) (TV & cable box were on....I said "red cloud" and turned off the cable box (for those that haven't seen the problem, the red cloud is a constant, no matter if a picture is being drawn)....immediate diagnosis). He mentioned this is the fourth or fifth time seeing this problem, a problem that is solely applicable to this line of televisions. The estimate for repair is $1647.71 in parts (light engine) and $257.93 in labor (these include tax) for a total cost of $1905.64.

Chris

ZJedi01

10-03-05, 05:37 PM

Does someone have a phone number for a Hitachi rep to contact. For some reason I dont think I will get very far contacting 1-800-HITACHI. Plus I would prefer to speak to someone who is familiar with the problem instead of talking to someone who is gonna run me around for 3 hours before I finally start to get somewhere. Any help would be appreciated.

ZJedi01

10-03-05, 06:05 PM

Update. I would still like the number of a rep, but I took a swing and called the 1-800-HITACHI.

CSR said that he has had several calls about this and that he can assure me that the red blob will become more visible and that was all that he was allowed to say. After I talked about my frustration with the product only being 1.5 years old and that Im not confident that a replacment part will not end up having the same problem, he said that since is my first call to them that they would be willing to pay for the labor.

I said that I would have to think about that and if they could at least send someone out to diagnose the problem officialy. He seemed reluctant to send someone out just to diagnose if I had no intentions of not having it repaired the same day. So right now no one is even coming to look at it. I also want to talk them into paying for the initial service visit to service this sub par product.

Im sorry but offering to pay $300 on a $1600 job doesnt exactly inspire me with confidence.

Should I keep hounding them or what?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

Jeremy

ZJedi01

10-03-05, 07:29 PM

Update #2. Stewed about it on the way home from work a little more and decided to call the 1-800 number back. Got a guy this time who wasnt so "informed" about this common problem with 50v500. He said it could be anything from a simple calibration to a LE replacement, but since I was so upset that this time he upped the offer from Free labor ...to either free Labor OR free Parts, but that i needed to contact a service center.

I asked him if they would be willing to pay for the service visit to diagnose the TV, he said no. He wanted to know which i wanted them to pay for, and I asked if I could have it diagnosed first and he hemmed and hawed and finally said that he would mark it in his notes that once it was diagnosed I could call and have the service center contacted with the requisition. Seems silly to want me to decide which one I want when I "supposedly cant assume that its the LE since it could be a mis-calibration", how would I "know" which one costs more. Anyhow...

This is the move in the right direction, but im still leary about haveing the thing repaired at all with a part thats only has a 90 day waranty. This thing could break and I could be doing this all over again in 1 year. He said that they have a very high repair success rate and that hitachi is very well known for fixing it right the first time...I pointed out that several people have had the part repaired more than once. Didnt seem to matter to him.

Ultimately what I want is the TV replaced with a different model but I dont think that will happen and that this parts offer might be the best thing....so for the time being im off to call the service center and at least get it diagnosed.

Thanks

Jeremy

Ruprecht

10-04-05, 09:28 AM

My set is still at the shop getting officially diagnosed, but here's how the conversations with Hitachi (1-800-HITACHI) went with me:

I called to tell them about the problem with the red cloud and the rep. acted like he'd never heard of this before. I knew this was B.S. since I had already read all about it on this site. He said that since I was out of warranty (bought in Oct 03) I should call a service center, and he recommended the one that I had used last year when they replaced my screen under warranty due to the smudging issue.

I called the service center, A to Z Electronics in Austin, and over the phone, she said it sure sounded like I needed a new light engine. She looked up the price and told me it cost over $1500. She also said that they charged $120 to come pick up the set and like $130 to diagnose the problem. She stronly suggested that I call Hitachi back and more or less pitch a fit.

I called Hitachi back, got a different rep, and politely voiced my extreme concern over the price quote for the repair of a two-year-old $3000 TV. He said he understood and put me on hold for at least 5 minutes or so. When he came back, he said that the TV would have to be actually looked at by the service people and the problem diagnosed first-hand before we could discuss what to do about it, but that Hitachi did not want an unhappy customer. He also said that Hitachi would pay for the pick up and diagnosis charges. He told me just to call A to Z back and set up a pick-up time and that they would contact A to Z with a payment authorization. He then said that once we knew for sure what the problem is, we'd take it from there (one step at a time).

When I called A to Z back, she knew exactly what he meant about Hitachi paying for having it looked at, and they picked up the TV a week ago today. She said that I should certainly call Hitachi back and complain after they tell me for sure what is wrong, and that they would be happy to work with Hitachi on what to do about it.

I called A to Z on Friday, and they hadn't looked at it yet. :mad: I plan on checking in on it again today, although I don't really want to be on their bad side in case they will go to bat for me with Hitachi at all.

I surely plan to relentlessly pursue either getting Hitachi to pay every cent of the repair OR replacing the set, whichever they prefer. What I plan to ask them, and I'd recommend everyone else to ask them, is does Hitachi feel that a two-year life span on a $3000 TV is acceptable quality to them? Is a two-year life span what Hitachi expects from their TVs? Put them on the spot. Certainly, they can't answer "yes" to this. Would they expect consumers to spend $1500 per year on these sets? Why would anyone buy a Hitachi if they themselves build a set where the acceptable life span is only two years? The reason I didn't buy a plasma is that they would only last up to 10 years, and my LCD crapped out after 2. That cannot be acceptable to them as a company, and it certainly isn't acceptable to me as the customer, and how would they prefer to resolve this.

Anyway, you can tell that I've thought about what I plan to say since I'm certain that I'll be having this conversation. Oh, and the minute the rep becomes negative about being able to help, I will politely ask for a supervisor or someone with the authority to make this kind of decision. I can't blame the reps for just telling me what they are only allowed to tell me.

Good luck everyone!

ZJedi01

10-04-05, 11:52 AM

Update #3. Local Service center wants $150 to come out to house just to diagnose TV or $50 for me to load it up in the back up my pick up and bring it in....which of course allows me the chance to damage the TV myself. Called 1-800 HITACHI again and talked some more. Got transfered to Customer Relations instead of tech support or who ever first answers the phone. They absolutely positivily refuse to pay for the diagnosis of the television. So I guess I get to load up the TV and risk dropping the damn thing.

I pressed the customer relations guy on the fact that the only acceptable solution to me assuming that the LE is bad(he keeps insisting it just might need a calibration...appearently I have no clue what im talking about) is for Hitachi to fully pay for the repair or replace the TV, because of the design flaw/defect of the LE and my utter uncofidence in the replacement LE not having the same the problem. He said there is no way that that is going to happen and the only solution is for them to pay for parts OR labors because there is no "defect". I said as a first step I would have the TV diagnossed and then I would call back to discuss this further. He said he would leave the ticket open.

Service centers Hitachi's guys are all at training till Next Monday...So I guess I have to wait a week to pursue this any further.

I want to know those of you who were out of warranty and got the whole TV replaced....what did you do, who did you talk to, what did you say. Any advice would be great.

Thanks,

Jeremy

Ruprecht

10-04-05, 12:02 PM

I can't believe they won't pay to have it looked at. They conceded that to me pretty easily. It must really depend on who you talk to. I would get to a supervisor.

The rep. was very defensive and wouldn't come close to committing to anything until after the set was looked at by the service people. I think he wanted to put off having that conversation until it was absolutely necessary. They may also want to try and convince the service people to try and do something cheap that my give an appearance that the set was fixed. Who knows.

I wouldn't press them on paying for the full repair until after it gets diagnosed, but I can't believe they wouldn't pay for it to be looked at since they did that so easily for me. Heck, I'm sure you've read others who have had it all paid for, and even one who had their set replaced and he didn't even get a Hitachi replacement.

GoBig

10-04-05, 04:39 PM

Well you can add me to the list for a LE replacement.

I finally called. The initial customer service Rep denied that there were ANY documented issues with the 50V500. I told him that this was actually my third TV as I had returned two to CC for other LE related problems, and that I new of enough other people that had similar problems with this TV that I had little confidence that a LE replacement would be a long term fix. His initial offering was they would pay for labor. I told his that was unexceptable and that I feel that Hitachi has a defective design and that I should not have to pay an additional $1500 to make my 20 month old $3000 TV work. He put me on hold and came back with an offer to cover parts but not labor. Then he continued his story that it is a rare problem and that he has never heard of it. At this point I asked to talk to a supervisor. I talked to the supervisor and lobbied hard for a new TV and he said that at this point the best he could do was to cover parts and labor. I asked him what happens if this problem occurs again and he said that they would deal with that then.

So in the end I should have a new LE when it comes in stock. I hope that I don't have any more problems once it is repaired but I will not hold my breath. If it happens again I will certainly not give up with out them agreeing let me return the TV.

I will say that I am happy that Hitachi will stand by their product, but again they should because their is no excuse for a TV only lasting 18 months.

Glad that we have this forum.

ZJedi01

10-04-05, 04:56 PM

Can I get the name of the supervisor that you talked to. I am trying to get them to pay for the inital diagnosis and for both parts and labor. Right now I can only get them to commit to either parts or labor.

Actually what we need is a way for all of us to consolidate our complaints together and let Hitachi know that we dont live in a vaccum. Someway to say look here I know that person X has called with this same exact problem was provided with the this solution. I want the same.

GoBig

10-04-05, 05:06 PM

I wish I could. I just realized all I have is there word to go by. I did not even get an RMA number or a comfirmation of any kind.

I would just call again and tell them how ridicules it is that a $3000 TV needs a $1500+ repair in less then 2 years and that you should not have to pay anything for the repair of a defective product. On the diagnostic front see if they will do it over the phone. Maybe you could e-mail them a picture of the problem. It is pretty easy to diagnose. I think that it is heat related and that it will eventually happen in some degree to all v500. But thats just my theory.

Now lets just hope that they weren't just bluffing me to ge me off the phone...LOL. I really should have gotten some sort of case number.

Ruprecht

10-04-05, 05:31 PM

Okay, really quick:

Same thing happened to me, Hitachi only wanted to pay the labor. I called and the rep changed it to only the parts so I asked for a sup. Jamie, the sup., balked, but ended up covering both. Just be really nice, but very persistent, and it should be okay. Make sure they are put on the spot about whether they are comfortable selling a $3000 TV that needs a $1500 repair after only two years. Make sure they know that YOU know it's happening to a lot of other people's sets. I think that made the difference in our conversation.

GoBig

10-04-05, 05:53 PM

Yeah what Ruprecht said. That is exactly what I did. Just be persitant and ask them what they would expect if they were in your shoes. I don't know about you but I streatched to get this set, and I feel it is completely unexceptable for it to fall apart like this after less then 2 years.

Oh and I think that I would not directly refer to the AVS forums either. I causualy mentioned it to the CSR(not the supervisor) and he dismissed it as don't believe everything you read on the internet(as if were reading about these problems on DrudgeReport.com or something) In response I said I have personally had three sets with LE problems now, I have talked to local technicians that have done LE replacements locally, and I personally know several people with simailar problems. Hitachi knows that their are problems with these sets. I would just refer to us as your friends, after all that is what we are right.

In my case all of the above is true. I Have several local friends with the same set that have had problems with their LE. I am not suggesting you out right lie to them but I don't think that they like hearing about the forums tracking all maintence problems with a set. Not much they can do about it though. Heck others here might have a different take and recomend that Hitachi read this tread. They could learn alot. In the end you need the CSR on your side though, so I try not to piss them off to much.

ExDeus

10-04-05, 07:14 PM

Update: The ghosting issues I was having with my 50v500 (see this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6231203&&#post6231203)).

Service tech came out and immediately went into the SM, changed a setting, and reset the TV to all defaults. I asked what he had changed and he told me he adjusted the "ghosting" setting. That's what the service manual called it. When the TV booted back up the ghosting issue was gone.

Since he reset all the user settings, I lost all of my video adjustments. I'm having a little trouble getting the picture back to the PQ it had before the service, but hopefully I'm just imagining things. We'll see. I'm hoping something else wasn't lost in resetting the TV.

GoBig

10-04-05, 09:44 PM

Finally decided to post a picture of my TV so others could compare. It actually has three light engine issues. I thought about makeing it a game: See if you can find all of the issues. But I went ahead and put the lables in any way.

Here ya go:
http://static.flickr.com/25/49517517_28baa9744b_o.jpg

ZJedi01

10-04-05, 10:59 PM

Mine isnt that pink yet, but its getting progressively worse.

Update: Called again tonight told the CSR that based on a couple friends who also today called (you guys) and received the offer of both parts and labor for the exact same situation I was in (this was my 4th call over all). She put me on hold and then came back and said she was transferring me to customer relations (this is the second time I have spoken with them now). I explained the situation of several people calling and getting the same offer that I was asking for. He put me on hold and came back and said that as 1 time good faith gesture they would agree to pay for both parts and labor. YAY! YAY!. I didnt even have to talk to a manager. Of course also explaining that I would hear it from my wife until it was all paid for, and I would continue to let them here about as long as I was getting in one ear, probably didnt hurt either....got a good laugh from the CSR on that one. So they said they would send fax with the requistion to my service center. So we'll see if that happens or not tomorrow since they were already closed by the time I talked with Hitachi.

Thanks for all the help and Ill try to keep you all updated.

Jeremy

GoBig

10-04-05, 11:12 PM

Good one. Always nice if you can make them laugh. I am sure they get a lot of abuse daily. Not that some of them don't deserve it("There are no know issues with this set.." Pleeaaase!)

I was told there was one LE available in MD, we'll see who can order it first. Hopefully they will not be on back order.

rikamae

10-05-05, 08:43 PM

I'm hoping someone can offer me some advice, though I do have a warranty and I can call for repair. I was thinking it was something I should be able to fix. I changed settings on my vid2 input to watch a 3d movie as advised by the instructions on the dvd. Not only didn't the 3d viewing work - it was awful, now I can't get the colors back the way they should be, but only on vid2. It is all red/pink looking and no matter what I've tried, nothing works. Nothing in the manual is helpful. If there is any help out there, I'll take it. I'm not a terribly technical person, so pretend I'm dumb as a rock, and I'll be able to get through it. Thanks for any help.

Uwish

10-06-05, 01:35 PM

I too am supposed to be having the LE replaced however, I have since moved cities and silly me, I took my TV with me! Does anyone know how the extended warranty works? does it matter that you have moved and will be changing service centers? When I called my sales center where I bought the TV, they told me the extended warranty is threw them only and not threw Hit, hence they needed to do the work..somehow that sounds like a bunch of BS. So I called Hit and are going to investigate, someone on here must have moved cities or something with the extended warranty, it can't simply apply to the little local TV shop I bought it at? Thoughts?

chris431

10-06-05, 01:48 PM

Uwish,

You will need to read the terms of the warranty. There are many independent companies who sell extended warranties through retailers. In many (if not all) of those instances, the warranty is independent of the retailer (many retailers do not do repair work) and the company offering the warranty will work directly with certain repair centers, or, reimburse you for the repair. OTOH, it is possible that the retailer you purchased your tv from offers a warranty through itself and confines you to repairs that it can otherwise handle. If you do not have a copy of the warranty, you should be able to request from the party who issued the warranty (be it the retailer or the independent warranty company).

Chris

gibbyscott

10-07-05, 01:10 PM

Add me to the list of replacement light engines. I have the 60v500 and Circuit City says it will take 2 weeks to order the part. Thank god I got the extended warranty.

GoBig

10-07-05, 03:40 PM

here is a link:
http://www.eserviceinfo.com/download.php?fileid=13164

Recomend WinRar if you don't already have it.

Looks like it is still the same part numberfor the LE as it was in 2003.

GoBig

10-07-05, 04:01 PM

Actually when looking at the 50V500A difference DOC from the same site I noticed this:
http://static.flickr.com/31/50293099_307e605082_o.jpg

I am wondering if the (S) is a rev number for the part. maybe they have made some fixes to the LE. I have an older copy of the Service Manual at home I will look it up and see if it is different.

spider1

10-07-05, 05:28 PM

I finally got my set back this week. I had the light engine replaced by the local guys. They had it back to me 3 days after getting the part. Hitachi payed for the part and I spent $225 to have it fixed. That price does not include delivery. Overall I am content since I was out of warrant but worry the set will crash again in a few months. I also wish Hitachi would have been a little more responsive on telling when I would get the part. Until the day they said it was in I was afraid I may be waiting for months. The picture looks as great as it ever did with the Dish 811 driving the signal. I wish everyone the best of luck in getting there problems resolved.

LIGHT ENGINE REPLACEMENT COUNT = 24
USERS
- Spider1 = 1
- Rapplin =1 (50v500a, 13 months in... red cloud)
- MikeWL =3
-aressa =4
-Ruprecht =1
-BigBlueBong =1
-yanks26xwc =2
-zaza4 =1
-locojones =1
-ten99 =2
-chris431 =1
-uwish= 1
-DHammer =1
-gibbyscott = 1
-zgediaol = 1
-gobig = 1
-jchas41 = 1

FaxMan

10-07-05, 06:05 PM

Ok, I've had the red cloud for a number of months now, but just got around to calling Sears for my warrantee repair. I suppose it makes a difference, but it never bothers me except sometimes between programs. I'd have done it much sooner if my wife had pointed it out. ;)

They'll be here the 18th so you'll probably see the next post from me then.

GoBig

10-07-05, 09:04 PM

Looked up the older Service Manual. Same part number. Lets hope they fixed it anyway. I will be taking my set in Monday. They say the part is available in Monday. Hope they are right.

Uwish

10-09-05, 10:26 AM

got a solid lamp light, I am assuming this mean my 5000hrs on this bulb is at an end?

anyone know a good place to pick up a new bulb??

googinb

10-10-05, 03:40 AM

Dumb question but, did you purchase the television with a credit card? If so call them and see if they may of extended the warranty. Thank God mine did or I'd be cussing Hitatchi out for selling a defective product. The extended warranty will reimburse you for the estimate as well, but you'll have to get one to send them for approval of repair.

I cannot tell you guys how angry I am that the damn light engine's are on back order!!!! Pisses me off everytime I turn on the so-called state of the art tv, knowing that I paid thousands of dollars and bout a stand I can't use with any other tv! GGGGGRRRRRRR!!

Tritronics Inc is the place who supplies the parts and they told me it will be in stock around Nov. 18th.

Seems with so many people having problems that we should be able to file some type of class action lawsuit. If for no other reason than to let other people know that Hitatchi makes defective products, provides no service. At this point I feel they stole my money.

Well add me to the list of red blobs. Same as the last couple posters. I bought the TV in Feb of 2004. Red blob is showing up when changing video inputs/channels, but doesnt show up in picture yet. So I'm guessing its just a matter of time. Wife is beyond pissed (as well as I am) that a $3000 piece of equipment doesnt last longer than 2 years. (having a hard time in convincing her in ever spending that kind of money on something like this again....i get the look of death any time the subject comes up) .

Of course I didnt buy the extended warranty from CC. Thought spending $500 on a warranty to add 2 years of coverage was silly considering that in 2 years you can probably replace the TV for twice that (which isnt to far off the mark).

Having a really tough time on deciding what to do. Since I dont have the warranty, Im going to live with it until It causes the TV to become unwatchable. But then I will have to either spend the $1000 to get it fixed or for that money I can buy a HDTV projector for that money. But hate to basically waste $3000 (if the tv had lasted like 10 years it wouldnt be considered waste but considering its only been 2 I consider that a huge waste).

Any suggestions? Has anyone been succesfull in getting Hitatchi to stand behind their product and fix it for just the cost of labor? Does anyone think I could get a sympathetic ear from Hitatchi since Im only out of warranty by 7 months?

This just really eats at my nerves and pisses me off to no end...makes me nervous to buy something to replace this...and I love my HD, but have a feeling if it was up to the WAF (wife acceptance factor) she just as well go back to the standard old tube TVS.

googinb

10-10-05, 03:44 AM

After you turn the set on, is the screen still black, like it's off? If not it's prob the same prob as the rest of, the light engine.

You can find a new lamp at www.tritronicsinc.com

got a solid lamp light, I am assuming this mean my 5000hrs on this bulb is at an end?

anyone know a good place to pick up a new bulb??

Uwish

10-10-05, 01:37 PM

FaxMan

10-11-05, 06:15 PM

ok, wait a minute, so i go to turn it on and it works, not a lamp issue. But I have never heard of this before? My TV yesterday shut down twice on its own then the lamp light came on solid and stayed on. I assumed it was a dead bulb. After coming here and reading I just try to turn it back on and now its working fine? WTF?

It sounds familiar to me. Somewhere earlier in this thread or the old very big thread. Search for some of the terms you used like lamp light. If I recall, manpig might have been the one with the problem.

Uwish

10-14-05, 10:18 AM

Well, I contacted Hit Canada about this and so did my service department. Hit is going to COVER the cost of the LE and any other parts replacement and my extended warranty provider is covering the labour. I guess Hit fessed up the the LE red cloud issue so life is starting to look good again in the Hit corner. I just hope the new LE has all the fixes I don't want to go threw this BS every 5000 hours on my set!

GoBig

10-17-05, 11:49 AM

Well the local service guys swaped out my LE last week. The picture looks much better. They said that my LE had 4500hrs on it. Sounds kind of high for 2 years of use. The LE is supposed to last 15,000 Hrs according to the service manual.

I seem to have better contrast now that the screen can go all the way black(or as close as the LCDs can get). I also have less SDE and vertical banding. So I am happy again. I just hope this LE lasts longer then the last one.

On a negative note the new LE has a noticable 2-3 degree tilt to it. I am considering fixing it myself. I really hate sending the set for service. Not to mention that I already asked them about adjusting overscan which they said was nearly impossible. I looked it up in the service manual, tilt looked pretty easy to adjust. While I am at it I could even adjust the overscan as well. Something tells me I would be more patient doing this then the service guys.

GoBig

10-17-05, 10:26 PM

Adjusted the geometry of my set. The tilt is now level and I am happy. Took a couple of hours of playing with it though. Unfortunately I could not find a way of adjusting overscan. My set is 6% Horizontal and 4%vertical.

Hope everyone gets their new LE with out too much hassle.

cybernana

10-18-05, 01:26 PM

We have had this TV for almost 2 yrs. Lately, if it's left on for
awhile,
> : it shuts off automatically. We can't see anything in the manual about a
> : "timer" which maybe we have set (although I'm sure we haven't). Does it
> : heat up after prolonged use? It's very annoying since it always seems
to
> : happen just when something crucial is about to happen in our programme,
and
> : although the sound still works, you have to wait until it completely
powers
> : down before you can turn it back on again. Does anyone else have this
> : problem, or know what might be causing it? Thx
>
I see a lot of people here have this problem, but I can't see anyone who has solved it. Is there a successful problem solver out there? Thx.

Uwish

10-18-05, 02:23 PM

My unit Just started doing that this week. It has never shut off on its own before but it has three times this week. And this morning it turned itself ON! I had to unplug the thing just to make sure it didn't turn on during the day. Very strange, I have heard of one other guy having this issue and I don't know if it was even related to the LE but some other board.

S

BigBlueBong

10-18-05, 03:07 PM

How close is your TV to the wall? you may not be getting enough air so the set will overheat......i try to keep mine fairly close so maybe it will melt down and i can get a new v720!

lastword

10-18-05, 11:20 PM

Add another to the list of victims. Very disappointed in Hitachi I used to swear by them to be the best. I have owned my 50v500 going on 20 months. Had many of the problems that other users are complaining about. I had the smugging the different colored circles and now the the stuck pixels. Oh yeah the big red glow the middle of my picture. I bought the CC warrantee after owning the 50v500 for a year. The LE should be in on the 20th of October, after waiting since the 22nd on September. Maybe I should push for replacing the unit.

P.S. Don't know what number I am, lost count.

Mark735

10-19-05, 01:39 PM

Ok I bought my TV in May 04 and everything was perfect up until about 6 months ago when I noticed a very faint pinkish discoloring, I thought nothing of it, thinking it was a adjustment, now it has become what everyone in this thread is talking about, a red / pinkish cloud, it's just off of the center about 2 inches to the right and 2 inches up from center of the screen and is about 2 1/2' wide X 1' tall Oval, I called the Warranty company and they sent out a tech this morning, he came in sat down for 2 min and said, you need a new Light Engine - good thing you got a warranty, I asked how much it would have been and he said I would have thought of buying a new set if I had to pay for it, Thank God for warranties, he told me it's a 2 person job Labor is $500.00 + Parts whatever they cost - told me 5 - 10 days to get part in and a 1 hours install Other then that and the run on sentence I Love the TV still looks great and has a great picture besides that cloud in the dark scenes or when there is no video source.

Ruprecht

10-21-05, 08:46 AM

I got my set back yesterday with the new light engine installed. So far, so good. No red cloud or bright spot anymore. Now I just have to redo all my picture settings that I should have written down before I let the set go. Rats.

ZJedi01

10-21-05, 02:14 PM

UPDATE: Got my TV back from the service center yesterday, was only there for 2 days. Everything looks as good as new and fully paid for by hitachi.

Now the question is do I try to sell the thing because Im afraid the problem might reappear in aonther 1.5 years. I have no clue how much I could sell a 1.5 year old TV for. Im not sure its worth the trouble, I really like the TV, but it makes me nervous.

Jeremy

bphisig

10-24-05, 01:55 PM

Does this light engine problem affect all of these sets that were produced? I bought my 50v500 back in August. After reading through this thread, I'm hoping that this problem has been corrected on the newer makes. I got a warranty from Sears, so I'm not too concerned, but I'd rather be without the hassle.

BigBlueBong

10-24-05, 01:59 PM

I think i read somewhere that TV's manufactured after feb. of '04 have less problems.....i could be wrong about the date....but there was a change in the manufacturing......

bphisig

10-24-05, 05:55 PM

That's good to know. Mine was made after then, so hopefully I won't be seeing the red blob.

Uwish

10-24-05, 06:25 PM

Well, my set was manufactured in Feb 04 and according to Hit it is NOT supposed to suffer from the red cloud issue but it is. I have a LE on order....hum for some reason they seem to be on back order...?

I just hope the LE know being installed have the manufacture fix for this issue.

GoBig

10-24-05, 07:48 PM

I am afraid that the red cloud may be a design issue. Seems that the LCD panels start to fail due to heat after approx 5000 Hrs. They are supposed to last 15,000 Hrs. Just a therory

Any one out there get past 5000 Hrs without an issue?

Rapplin

10-25-05, 12:21 PM

Update on my LE replacement:
Unit still in waiting for LE. ETA was knocked back 3 times since it went in.
New updated ETA is Nov 2 2005

Wow, I am so pissed at being pissed, I no longer am pissed..... go figure that one out. haha

IF I get my set back the first week of November, it will have been approx 6-7 weeks without it. That is a long @ss time!
There is no doubt the outrageous amount of LE's is directly proportional to how many are FAILING!!!!
I too am nervous that this issue will (effectively) creep up on these sets EVERY couple of yrs... can you imagine that happening? Let's just say if that happened, I would most definitely be one VERY pissed of consumer and I would do every single thing I could to make this right... but until then... let's see I guess.

Mr. Anderson

10-26-05, 12:13 AM

Red Cloud - Add another to the list of victims... still have the ew so will hope for a quick turnaround.

50V500 Jan 04 ~3000 hrs

GoBig

10-26-05, 03:13 PM

Well the nightmare continues. My new LE seems to have its own set of problems. The picture has started to intermittently flip out with digital noise. My first set exipited this behaviour and I returned it to Circuit City. Now it looks like my new LE has the same issue. It can best be compared to when you boot up your computer in safe mode and all of the colors look funny because it is only 8-bit color. The problem just started and it seems to be happening more often. Guess I need to get on the phone with Hitachi...sigh.

I knew I was jinxing myself by ordering a new bulb!

Mits-man

10-30-05, 06:12 PM

Had the same problem with my 50v500, Red blob & out of focus spots. Called C.C. about problem a month ago. Sent out a tech. 3 weeks ago, said he needed to order a light engine. Got a call friday from a service rep from C.C. She gave me a return authorization number & claim number. Get full price I paid back on the set towards a new one!
I am very happy with C.C. and their ext. warranty.
Now the question is, what do I buy? Do the new models have this problem? I'm thinking of buying the 50v710 so I can use my current stand. Any suggestions?
Thanks

GoBig

10-30-05, 08:01 PM

Personally, if given the chance to get a new TV I would stay away from RP LCD.

digimat

10-31-05, 01:14 AM

Personally, if given the chance to get a new TV I would stay away from RP LCD.

agreed, if size doesn't concern you too much get a plasma, hitachi makes great plasmas as well.

MikewL

10-31-05, 10:13 AM

I am very happy with C.C. and their ext. warranty.
Now the question is, what do I buy? Do the new models have this problem? I'm thinking of buying the 50v710 so I can use my current stand. Any suggestions?
Thanks

I had the same deal with my v500 and CC. I went with the Sony KDF LCD RP. LOVE IT. There is no way I would trust Hitachi again. Take a peek at the Sony Owners Threads - there is no mention of major chronic problems. Just people sharing setups, connections, other component recomendations and tweaks.

My 2 cents.

manpig

11-01-05, 11:36 AM

Hithosed.....sup?

Just read the thread since my last visit and have a couple of comments:

A new light engine does not include a new fan.
If you are in doubt about whether you have the "red cloud" issue you should switch to an unused input or an input you have no signal going to and view the screen. If you have it then it will be seen in the center area of your screen as a reddish glow. This does not have anything to do with the mem init problems that were discussed early on this thread. The memory init problems are directly related to a circuit board and not the LE. I know because I had that problem and a new circuit board fixed it. I am pretty sure I documented it in this thread.

The strange power on power off and not being able to power up at all, was discussed by me earlier in this thread as well. The culprit was another circuit board.

Do not believe Hitachi when they tell you they don't know about the red cloud issue.

Add me to the list of LE replacement victims. 50V500. One of the first adopters here. frown.

More to follow.

manpig

11-01-05, 11:46 AM

Regarding the "red cloud" , I guess I should say when I first thought I saw it I thought some of my settings had gotten out of whack or that my daughter and her friends had gotten into the user menu and done some adjusting on their own. ha ha. So, I put in my DVE disc and went to redo my adjustments and the first thing I noticed was that when I went to the Pluge area to set my brightness levels that I no longer had the three bars on the right and three on the left like I originally had. I had the outside stripe (below black) and the middle stripe (4% above black) but I could no longer see the inner stripe (2% above black). I adjusted as best I could and wasn't sure at the time if it was related to the lamp which I replaced and it did not help, or the dvd player which I cleaned with a cleaning kit but that did not help either. I tried everything I could think of but nothing changed. Since getting the new light engine yesterday, I put in my DVE disc and the black bars are back. Yeah. I readjusted my settings and everything looks great.

Footnote: I had fogotten that when you do this that you are only adjusting the input where you have your dvd player set to. In my case this would be input 1. This set does not save these user settings to the other inputs, so you have to go to each input and adjust them to whatever you came up with using DVE.

manpig

11-01-05, 12:02 PM

New Issue: The Blue drip.

I had the red glow and was waiting on the service center to order in a new LE and I notice near the top of my screen when my tv was on, there was this small blue drippy lookin thing.
Over time, the drip got bigger. It also spread out both vertically and horizontally. Sorry I did not take a picture of it, but it was very pronounced and you could see that while it was very blue, it did not cover up whatever image was on the screen. Rather, it just overshadowed it. In the places where it was, it was almost like you were looking through some super freeky blue sunglasses at your screen in the areas affected. I showed it to my service tech (yeah, he and I are on a first name basis now), and he told me he had never ever seen this before, but was hopeful it would be taken care of with the new LE. Yippee, am glad to report it was.

manpig

11-01-05, 12:28 PM

My Light Engine was replaced yesterday. I had been waiting patiently for a couple of months for it to come in (kept being told it was on backorder etc) and really did not mind the red glow thingie even though it had gotten progressively worse. But when the Blue drip happened, I got really pissed and starting calling daily to the service provider to find out status on my LE. I guess they got tired of hearing my voice and upgraded my order to a priority and even then told me it would be another week to come in. I waited that week and called and was told it could be another month to 6 weeks and I told the guy I was going to call Hitachi, Circuit City, and anyone else who would listen to me and start complaining. He called me back in an hour and told me my LE would be in the next day. It pays to complain.

Back to my story: The service guy (my new buddy) shows up at my house at 230pm yesterday with the LE and tells me he is going to do it at my house instead of taking it to their shop. I asked if he had ever done this before and he said no that this would be a first.
When asked what gave him this confidence, he told me he knew he had me to help him plus the fact that he had already done 8 to 10 of these in the shop. Not all were Hitachi btw, although the majority were. He has even done a Light Engine on a Sammy DLP he told me.

We removed the back lower panel. Next, the front lower cover. Took out the woofer on the right side and unhooked all those wires that are there. Removed a few more things and then he and I were able to lift the top part of the tv off. He did not remove the screen and left it intact with the back part of the tv it connects to. Now the LE was in full view and he detached a bunch of wires including that wipe strip that someone reported in their post that got cut. It connects to the LE. There is a whole series of wires in the back that have to be removed as well and a bar that runs horizontal to the tv that all these are attached to and it has to be removed. He also took out the fan and some housing in that area. He took out the old LE and had to remove a couple of parts off of it and attach them to the new LE. Then he replaced the LE with the new one and reattached the wiring. With the screen and top removed, he tried to power the tv on using the remote but it would not come on. He said with other brands this is possible but with the Hitachi I guess it is not. We put the top of the tv back on and hooked up those wires by the woofer but did not re-screw all the stuff back on. Then he tried to power it up and it came on. He then hooked up some kind of signal generator to it just to see if everything was working and it was so he proceeded to reattach all the crap he had removed. All this took about an hour I am guessing or maybe a bit less. I hooked up all my connections and everything looked great.
No more Blue Drip and no more Red Cloud. He took off. Later, I found that the vertical and horizontal positioning was a bit off, but was able to correct that myself in the SM. I still have a minor tilt (almost negligible) but it is there and I think someone mentioned fixing this themselves earlier in this thread and if they can post how they fixed this I would greatly appreciate it. It is not a major problem and I can live with it, but if the fix is fairly easy I would like to do it.

Right now my tv looks as good or better than it ever did. Knock on wood. Like others, I worry whether Hit has figured out what has been causing this problem and whether or not the new LE's being made are going to last or if they are just a temp fix. I do not feel very confident. If anyone has any questions I can answer let me know. I will try to come back for a couple of weeks and address any questions.

manpig

11-01-05, 12:31 PM

Has anyone heard if Ahardt had her baby or how she is doing?

bphisig

11-01-05, 01:03 PM

GoBig

11-01-05, 01:05 PM

manpig

11-01-05, 02:01 PM

Good info manpig. I got mine in August '05 with a 3 year warranty from Sears. Maybe it's new enough to not have the LE problem that everyone else seems to be having, but that's probably just wishful thinking.

At least you were smart enough to buy the EW. :p Seriously, I used to post here at AVS against buying them. Just goes to show you what I knew. They say that experience is the best teacher in life so in relation to Hitachi rear-pro LCD, I guess I am now Dr. Manpig. :eek:

I would think within the coverage you have, that most problems that are lingering (that Hitachi has not secretly addressed), will rear their ugly heads.

manpig

11-01-05, 02:14 PM

Hey manpig, I bought my TV largely on your recomendation back in 2003..thanks alot ;) Just kidding. The TV really was great until the red cloud issue. I also had a purple/blue vertical stripe that appeared, sounds similar to the problem you mentioned.

I had my LE replaced fairly quickly. I took only a few days for the servicers to get the part. I was with out the TV for a week. Funny how it sounds like we had the same LE problems with the new LE, off center and a slight tilt. Mine was very noticable when there was a ticker on the bottom of the TV. I would recomend having the technicain come back out to adjust the Tilt/Raster. The procedure is spelled out in the service manual, but it is a pain and you have to take the back of the TV off. It would be better to have your new service tech buddy there with you to help anyway.

I currently have a new problem that is even worse then the Red cloud. Started as intermittent but now after a week it seems to be permanent. Black on any scene on any input has been replaced with bright green. It is completely unwatchable. I am waiting for the technicians to diagnose the problem. Any one else out there ever heard of this? It actually happened on the first 50v500 that I bought from Circuit City. I returned the set and got a new one. Now I am back to square one. Sighhh...

Sup Go, I guess I owe you a bottle of something. I just hope your drinking tastes are not as expensive as mine are. :D PM me your addy and I will get right on that.

Your purple/blue vertical stripe issue would not be the same as the Blue Drip problem I reported. This had no verticality to it. It was a drip like someone spilled some blue gunk on the optics and it spread out and grew over time. At one time it had the shape of the lower quadrant of the United States. I kinda liked it then until two Floridas formed. ha ha. I am serious. I could kick myself for not taking a pic of this.

You are right about the tilt/raster thing. I think the Service Techs are supposed to check this as part of the LE replacement procedure but mine did not. Like you said, it is evident only watching like a ticker rolling across the bottom of the screen as you see the wording get crunched a bit on the left side as compared to the right. I might call him or just live with it. It is very minute. Even tho this guy is pretty good, I just don't like the thought of having my engine broken into again. I have a service manual so I will probably take a glance at it and see what is involved and if I don't want to waste the time on it myself, then I will just live with it.

Regarding your new problem: Have you tried to go into your SM and do a memory init? When my colors went screwy way back when, this was the fix abeit a temp fix for me as one of my circuit boards eventually had to be replaced.

GoBig

11-01-05, 02:40 PM

Considered the Mem init option but since I am already in contact with the service guys I was hessitent to mess with it. If it fixes it I could just tell them that is stopped for now I guess. Do you loose all of you user color settings with the Mem init?

Thanks for the offer on the Drink, I need one after all of this. But you really owe me nothing, I knew atleast some what, what I was getting into buying a newer tech. Just did not expect all of this so soon. Your input, and all of the rest of the early adopter crowd really helped bring the best out of this set. Just think where the SXRD threads will be in 6 months to a year. Hope that they have figured out how to keep those panels cooler then Hitachi did.

manpig

11-01-05, 03:49 PM

Big, I don't recall if you lose user settings when you mem init. It seems like you might, but I cannot be sure since it has been so damn long since I did it. Since you have placed a service call already, I would not touch it. Let them deal with it and let us know what the fix is.

Speaking of old threads, I was thinking earlier how funny it is to me now that most of our early concerns on this set were about stuck pixels, bad black levels, and screen door effect.
When everything is working, this really is a great set but unfortunately (at least for me), this set has been one of the worst things I have ever bought in my life in relation to reliability. I read here, some suggestions about a class action lawsuit and wondered to myself if something like that is possible. It seems more probable to me than expecting a total recall on this set by Hitachi. None of the problems reported thusfar have killed or maimed anyone, so I highly doubt it.

GoBig

11-01-05, 04:08 PM

When everything is working, this really is a great set but unfortunately (at least for me), this set has been one of the worst things I have ever bought in my life in relation to reliability.

I will second that!

manpig

11-01-05, 06:34 PM

Big,

I just saw the pics you sent me. We need a new name for that problem me thinks.

Possibilites:

1. The Timothy O'Leary Effect.
2. Zapped Out
3. Sizzle
4. Fried Green Hitachi
5. Psychadellic Piece of Crap
6. Elecrtrocutionized
7. Green Haze
8. Revenge for the A-bomb

Ruprecht

11-02-05, 11:57 AM

Thanks for sharing all of the great info Manpig.

After having my LE replaced, my position is a bit off too. Every time I turn it on, I adjust it from the Aspect menu in the regular menu. Since you've said you can fix this in the service menu, I'd like to try it. I've never accessed the service menu before though. I've read how to bring up the service menu already; will it be obvious how to make this adjustment once I'm in?

Thanks!

GoBig

11-02-05, 03:39 PM

will it be obvious how to make this adjustment once I'm in?

Thanks!

Near the bottom of the SM their are two fields. HPOSITION and VPOSITION.

I found the best way to center the image is to record HDNET test patterns or INHD TUNE UP and use their over scan pattern to center the image. Be careful not to the hit factory reset which is right next to the position values. If you are using DVI on input one then the service menu is only visable on the other inputs. Good luck.

Manpig, How about Green Vomit Highlights from Hell. I actually got impatiant and tried the mem init function. waited till it finished and turned the TV off. When I turned it back on it seemed fixed(It had been stuck in Green Vomit mode for a solid day after being intermittent). So I figured maybe, make that a BIG MAYBE it is fixed. Well it lasted last night and this morning, now it is back this afternoon, so no dice, still not fixed. Sounds like a need a board replaced or the LE. Still waiting to hear from my local service guys. I think they are getting tired of me though.

manpig

11-02-05, 06:45 PM

Big, I am guessing a board. I like Green Vomit Highlights from Hell btw.

Ruprecht, I use a DVE pattern via component. I think it is the pattern they use for the sharpness adjustment if I am not mistaken. Write down your original settings in case you screw **** up. And don't click on anything you are not sure of.

Ruprecht

11-03-05, 08:49 AM

Near the bottom of the SM their are two fields. HPOSITION and VPOSITION.

I found the best way to center the image is to record HDNET test patterns or INHD TUNE UP and use their over scan pattern to center the image. Be careful not to the hit factory reset which is right next to the position values. If you are using DVI on input one then the service menu is only visable on the other inputs. Good luck.

Thanks. Took care of this with no problems last night. For something so harmless, they should have that on the regular user menu. My dad has the 60V500 and it's been a little "low" since he bought it, and if this was on the regular menu it would have been fixed by now. Of course now I will go and adjust it for him from the service menu.

Thanks again.

detbass

11-10-05, 01:27 AM

Greetings,

I have read a lot of this thread and just wanted to confirm that I have the "red cloud" problem before I call it in.

I have the 50v500 model, and when the screen is solid black, there is a red cloud in the middle of the screen. I'm assuming this is the red cloud problem and my light engine needs to be replaced? Thankfully, although I was against it at the time, we bought the extended warranty. Hopefully it will cover this.

GoBig

11-10-05, 08:42 AM

Sounds like the red cloud problem to me. I posted a picture of mine a few pages back for reference.

Rapplin

11-10-05, 09:52 AM

I have been really considering all the people out there who purchased these sets with no extended warranty.
I fortunately did, but I can imagine how many didn't and will probably suffer from the red cloud "Known" issue. It completely floors me how much the part and labour will be to replace, AND that the customers will have to pay for it themselves most of the time.
Its not like this DEFECT is a small matter... It's probably the most expensive part that could go wrong to have to be replaced!
If something worth 100 bucks, and I was out of warranty, I wouldn't really be up in arms about it too much.
Is it just me or is everyone else as DISTURBED as I am about this nonsense?
Actually a very valid point EVEN for extended warranteed customers is this:
- The dreaded defects surface either AGAIN after the warranty runs out, OR they simply surface for the first time...... doesn't really matter as long as they do......... you are SOL for the most part trying to then make a case with Hitachi ........only of course IF you are in the know about these problems to begin with!!!!
Again, it's very, very sad that the cost of this is extraordinary to repair....
This is a wrong that should be righted... pardon the poor english

FaxMan

11-10-05, 11:04 AM

Count me in as an official LE replacement now.

As mentioned previously, I had reported the Red Cloud issue unde my Sears warranty and the solution was a new Light Engine.

The LE was shipped directly to me about a week after the tech ordered it. Just recently got around to scheduling him in. It took about 1 1/2 hours with me as his able assistant.

All is well now. One of my concerns was that I might end up with stuck pixels on the new LE. Haven't seen any yet, but haven't looked closely (and probably won't ;) )

A couple of notes...

Apparently it is much easier to do the LE replacement on the 'A' versions.

He indicated that their EA includes lamp. If mine dies -which might be soon as it as 5,200+ hrs on it - he said to just give them a call and they would ship or drop one by. :D

BigBlueBong

11-10-05, 11:26 AM

So I think I've finally joined the red cloud club!!! yay!

I've been reading about it for so long and now I'm finally a member! After a full day of viewing this weekend I noticed a a large red haze on the lower left half of my screen.

I haven't called CC yet because it's really not that noticeable, but I just wanted to know: This will be my second light engine replacement....I didn't even pay as much as 2 would cost to replace for this tv. Some people have mentioned that they got a new tv because of this. Was that through CC, and what are my odds of getting a new one? Do I have to bitch or will they just do the math?

Thanks!

manpig

11-10-05, 12:09 PM

Detbass: I agree you have the "red cloud" issue. Your warranty will cover all costs to replace the light engine.

Rapplin: Yeah, I am disturbed and am thinkin we all are. If I had not purchased the EW I would really be pissed. Even tho I did, I am still worried as you said that the problem could manifest itself down the road after my EW runs out. I would not spend $1500 to fix this tv. I would probably turn it into an aquarium or something.. :D

Fax: That is good news about your set. How does your PQ look now as compared to when you had your set ISF'd? Also, did you ever get a chance to check your set with the DVE disc before the repair as we talked about that day live? Just curious. Also, what is it that makes the LE replacement with the "A" models easier?

Bong: The way I understand the CC replacement policy is that you have to have 3 fairly large problems reported at different times under their plan (this would not include anything you might have had fixed when you did not have the plan like say under the manufacturer's warranty if you did not have the EW at that time). It also would cover replacement if their repair did not fix the problem and you are not left satisfied that your tv is as watchable as it was the day you brought the set home.
In my case, I have already had two large repairs under the CC EW. This would mean, that if I have another one, I should be looking at a replacement rather than a repair.

Is anyone going to update the LE replacement list that was done previously?

bphisig

11-10-05, 01:13 PM

I am just amazed that Hitachi has not officially addressed this issue. It seems to be a problem with the majority of these v500 sets and it's just amazing they haven't done anything to rectify the situation.

I bought my 50v500a without ever reading this forum (wish I had) and I'm pretty sure that regardless of whether or not I end up with a red cloud on my set, I will never buy Hitachi again. I always considered it one of the top brands, but with no support on an issue this huge, I just can't put my fate in their hands ever again.

As someone posted above, of all the problems you can have with an HDTV, this is a HUGE problem. If you're out of warranty, it's over $1000 to replace. It just baffles me that Hitachi wouldn't have some sort of solution to this problem figured out by now.

mstein_88

11-10-05, 01:56 PM

Hi guys. Looong time lurker. I've got some good news (for a change) for those of you who purchased your TV at Circuit City. I'll give you my whole story and hopefully it will help some of you out.

I purchased Sony's 50" rear-projection LCD at my local Circuit City back in November of '03. I bought an open box at almost a $700 discount. I had them set it up and turn it on for me at the store. It worked and PQ was great. Got it home that night, set it up and it didn't work. Just didn't turn on. Spoke with my CC rep the next day and he told me the part was backordered from Sony and would take 1-2 months. Without me even complaining, he offered to replace it with a brand-new, comparable Hitachi model (50v500a) at the Sony's open box price. That's when I found this forum (I think) and started reading such positive reviews on the Hit. I took his offer and loved my TV for about 14 months. In early '04 I noticed a small red cloud in the center of the screen. Probably the size of a tennis ball. For a long time I told myself it was a reflection of light... and that it had probably always been there. It was only noticeable when turning the TV on or off, or changing inputs. Didn't affect my viewing experience (that I could tell) at all. I wasn't keeping up with this board so I had no knowledge of the dreaded red cloud issue.

Over time the red cloud spread like the cancerous evil it is. I continued to ignore it, telling myself it wasn't affecting my PQ (although deep down I knew it was)... until a friend noticed it during a footbally game. This killed me. My TV -- which had been the envy of my friends and family -- had a flaw that "regular TV watchers" could see. I finally called Circuit City about a month ago (I have the CC Protection plan - thank god) and they referred me to a local TV repair center. This is when the problems started. Twice the service center stood me up on service calls. I called CC again and they called the repair center and leaned on them to make good on the next visit. They picked my TV up 13 days ago. They didn't call me to tell me the problem until I finally got a hold of them a couple days ago. They confirmed it was the light engine and that they'd be ordering me a new one. Yesterday I called them to find out when I could expect my TV back, only to be told the LE is on back order (SHOCKER!) and that they have no ETA. I asked them if they thought I had a case with CC and they said probably not at this point.

I called CC last night to complain anyway. I was very diplomatic, explaining I'll be without my $3000 TV for a good month... best-case scenario. Worst case, it could be MONTHS. I did not ask for anything, just stated my case and he documented it. He then gave me an Incident Number and asked me to call back (today) during regular business hours and ask to be transferred to the "Escalation Department." I did so today. I got a woman who put me on hold for almost 10 minutes. Just as I was beginning to lose my cool, she picked up and explained that my TV will be REPLACED BY CIRCUIT CITY in 7-10 business days! I didn't even have to ask. She noticed I was shocked and explained that THE PART IS BACK ORDERED THROUGH FEBRUARY!!! She acknowledged this model has a ridiculously high fail rate and that they are replacing them. She told me I'd be called soon by someone with a few choices of comparable models they'd replace mine with (including delivery).

So obviously I'm thrilled with Circuit City. I've been fighting with Best Buy for almost a month over a $200 MP3 Player that doesn't work (after three months) and that I have the Replacement Plan for. I'll never shop there again.

It's important for me to note I'd NEVER had to use my extended warranty with Circuit City until now and that they bypassed their "Lemon" clause of replacing the unit only after the 3rd problem. She didn't tell me explicitly that replacing the 50v500a is a company-wide policy now, but definitely led me to believe so.

Please.... if you have CC's EW and ANY problems with the red cloud (even in its earliest stages)... INITIATE the process. Get a service center referral from CC. Get them to document you need a new LE. NOW... while they're back ordered. I'm willing to bet you'll get yourself a new TV.

Hope this helps some of you. Now... does anyone have a recommendation on what TV I should replace it with??? Anyone know anything about the 50v710? She said that would be their likely offer.

Good luck...

bphisig

11-10-05, 03:25 PM

Mstein

Thanks for the story. I bought mine at Sears, so hopefully when I see this issue pop up, they will be just as helpful as CC. That's crazy that the LE is on back order until February.

BigBlueBong

11-10-05, 03:44 PM

Dude...that's sweet! I'm calling CC now!!!! I'll update everyone w/ what happens.

FaxMan

11-10-05, 04:51 PM

Fax: That is good news about your set. How does your PQ look now as compared to when you had your set ISF'd? Also, did you ever get a chance to check your set with the DVE disc before the repair as we talked about that day live? Just curious. Also, what is it that makes the LE replacement with the "A" models easier?

Pig: I'd say that overall it seems 'richer' than before the LE replacement, but that could be because I haven't had a chance to do any calibration. (Though I noticed a slight tilt when I put the HDNET test screens up).

Whether it is better/worse compared with when I had it ISF'd, I really can't say for sure. Haven't had enough watching time.

Sorry, I didn't get a chance to look at the DVE before the replacement.

Apparently with the non-'A' versions, more has to be taken apart and it takes some gymnastics to get the LE out. With A versions, it just slid out the back (after removing 50+ screws).

BTW, after we were finished, we only had two screws that we couldn't find a home for. :o

chris431

11-11-05, 10:51 AM

For those that contact Hitachi concerning red cloud issues, their standard policy now seems to be to pay for parts and labor. However, for those who do not enjoy being without their television while it is away at a repair center <g> (for what they claim is 7-10 days, but for a time that is likely to be much longer if other's experiences here on AVS are typical), you should ask Hitachi for several of their authorized repair services and call each of them to inquire about in-home light engine replacement before setting up a diagnostics appointment. Some repair centers will do in-home replacement while others will not. Once you have initiated the repair process with Hitachi and have received a diagnosis, you will not be able to request a different repair center that does do in-home. Today, I learned this first hand (repair center will have 50v500A for 7-10 days (pick-up to be scheduled), they do not do in-home light engine replacements, a call to Hitachi customer service resulted in my learning that once I started with one repair center, there was no switching (not that it was unexpected....Hitachi's 2 reasons a)more diagnosis fees to them b)some repair centers will not become involved in a repair once another center has touched it (I'll leave it to you to judge these "reasons").

Hopefully this post will save some the inconvenience. Now....about that February back order post. :mad: (I should have an ETA for the light engine today).

I hope this helps someone from further frustrations.

Chris

Rapplin

11-11-05, 12:07 PM

Had a call yesterday that the LE has arrived and has been put in. I get it delivered back tomorrow. Lets see, they took it away on Sat Sept 17 2005 and get it tomorrow... Nov 12 2005
Total of 56 DAYS! 2 months for God's sake

I hope others have better "luck"

I will let you all know how it looks tomorrow....... etc...

mstein_88

11-11-05, 12:24 PM

So in my mind, the question now is "Do I get another Hitachi?" So many of us here have been burned by -- let's face it -- an inferior product, that I'm not sure I want to give this company my faith again. I understand that overall the company has a stellar, maybe even great, reputation. But a stellar reputation isn't going to get me back the 8 months I lived with a red blob in the middle of my $3000 TV. Nor the 3 or 4 weeks I paid for HD cable that I'm currently unable to use.

Now Circuit City will be replacing my TV and I believe the 710 will a choice. Do I risk getting burned a second time? I absolutely loved my TV when it was performing to expectations. Problem is, that only last 14 months. I'm reading some really good things about the Sony Wega (I'm sure I'll be lambasted for that in this forum) and am thinking of going that route. Or maybe DLP?

Has anyone else had their TV replaced by Circuit City? If so, what choices were you given and what did you end up going with?

castellm

11-11-05, 03:41 PM

I purchased my 50v500 through CC more than 2 years ago with the extended warranty. After reading your posts about CC's generous return policy, I need to find a way to expedite the LE failure so I can get a new TV!

Thanks for your guys info, i've gotten a lot of valuable information from this forum.

MikewL

11-11-05, 08:15 PM

mstein_88,
I had my v500 replaced by CC about 6 months ago. I chose the Sony KDF 60" LCDRP. The picture is easily as good as a properly functioning v500, the bezel is black instead of that obnoxious silver, and I'm completely happy with it. Do yourself a favor and dump Hitachi. Frankly, I'm really surprised to hear any of the recent contributors to this post consider another Hitachi product.

bphisig

11-11-05, 09:35 PM

I won't consider another. I'm on my first LE, but I'm sure it will fail at some point just like everyone else's.

It's amazing because it seems like this TV's failure rate is 100%, which makes it all the more unbelievable that Hitachi has done nothing to fix the problem.

Uwish

11-14-05, 12:39 AM

It's sounding more and more like this is a heat / LCD panel issue. My guess is the new V525 unit will suffer from the same issues when there LE reach 3 to 5K hours. Has anyone looked at other posts or heard anything about these units?

GoBig

11-14-05, 01:03 PM

Well Hitachi is going to authorize a return for my defective set so I no longer need the two week old spare bulb that I just purchased from tritronicsinc.com. I can return the bulb to tritronics but they charge 25% restocking fee so as long as I do better then that I am happy. PM if interested.

Just to be clear this is an used still in the sealed original packaging lamp.

I will post more about my repair/return authorization ordeal soon.

slvance

11-14-05, 09:11 PM

First I had the total pink hue and fixed that with the help of you guys and the service menu. Now I have the pink cloud. Bought my set in August of 2004 and of course no EW. So from what I have read my next step is to call Hitachi customer service and politely argue for awhile, be told they will pay for labor, refuse that, ask for a supervisor, maybe get switched to customer relations, get the offer of parts or labor, politely insist that is not good enough and try to use the old "put your-self in my shoes" and then hopefully they will finally agree to parts and labor for a LE. Am I missing anything?? The hard part will be being nice when you know they are just trying to screw you...

Steve

GoBig

11-15-05, 10:48 AM

Sounds like you got it. Have fun, just try to keep your cool. It is easier when you know they will cover it...eventually.

About the only thing that you missed is that they want the technicians to diagnose the problem before they even are willing to talk about the LE. You may want to call you local repair shop first. If they sugest a new LE first that will speed up the process. But they really are supposed to look at the set and diagnose it. That will cost you but Hitachi will cover it if you complain enough in advance.

Good luck

H2Racing

11-15-05, 04:58 PM

Ive lurked around initially when deciding which HDTV to purchase and went with my lovely 50v500a. After 14 months of owning I too got the infamous red cloud, and thanks to all of your advice I called Hitachi and discussed the problem which like most are totally oblivious to problem. Told me to call Sears and have them look at it. To which I did for a tune of $105 bucks for a 2 minute visit to tell me that it needs a new light engine.

Called Hitachi as soon as Sears left and they told me to call Sears warranty, which I did. Obviously they told me tough luck. Called Hitachi back and they told me they would cover labor but I wasnt allowed to have Sears do the work. Instead told me I needed a second service call from another service center which I would be responsible for the payment.

Sears quoted the repair at $538 for the LE and $300 for the labor. The other service center wants $1200 for the LE. I called Hitachi back and again was told all they would pay for is the labor. I will be selling the set unrepaired and purchasing a different manufacturer, but wanted to say thanks for all posts to issues with the 50v500a. I have learned my lesson on extended warranties with new technology and will never purchase another Hitachi brand product.

Thanks Again for all the help

rpmfla

11-16-05, 10:52 AM

Hi, I'm new here (and new with HDTVs).

I just picked up a Hitachi 50V500 at Circuit City in their scratch & dent sales area. When I got it home and turned it on I was very impressed. I am just running off of rabbit ears right now because most of my TV viewing is DVD movies, so I can't judge off-the-air PQ.
When it is set to 4:3, the picture is fantastic on DVDs. However, there are the 2 pillars on either side of the movie so it doesn't fill the screen. When I switch to any other aspect the image degrades a lot, with thin vertical white "noise" lines all across the screen.

The thing is, this problem isn't there when I first turn the set on and pop in a DVD. It degrades slowly over about ten minutes. The noise starts out sort of random but ends up with the thin vertical lines. Since I don't know much about HDTV, I don't know if there is a setting that will fix it or if I got a "lemon". Oh, and if I set my DVD player to progressive scan, the problem changes to much wider (approx. 4"), more intense, vertical lines of noise.

But, when the TV is set to 4:3, it looks just beautiful! I need to find out pretty quickly what the deal is because I only have 30 days to return it.

Any help? I was surprised to not find this problem discussed here. Most of the time a technology problem is not limited to one unit and I can usually find others who have had the same issue (often with a solution).

Any suggestions are appreciated.

RPM

MikewL

11-16-05, 11:05 AM

rpmfla,

my advice is to read the last 4-5 pages of this thread and then hurry back to CC to return this set!

I don't know what you paid for it, but I can't imagine the price reduction could be good enough to put up with the reliability issues. ESPECIALLY considering you are already seeing flakey performance. It is not normal for the picture to degrade over 10 minutes.

slvance

11-16-05, 11:15 AM

RPMFLA - never heard of this problem, but it sounds like more of a settings issue than anything else. I agree with the last post though - if you can return the TV then do so while you still can and get something else.

On my own red cloud issue I called the service people today to get diagnosed before I call Hitachi. At first I thought they may diagnose it over the phone. Later they said they thought they could fix it. I asked to speak directly to the tech and was transferred. Nice man. Said he had seen the problem before and thought he could fix it. He said the memeory inititialization (or re-initialization) would fix it. I told him I had read that would not work with this issue and the LE was the problem. He said he was"almost" sure he could fix it. I said OK - come on - and actually have an appointment today at 3:00PM. I figure the worse that can happen is he says sorry it's the LE, and I was going to have to have that diagnosed anyway. It will be interesting to see what he tries to do.... I'll keep you posted.

Steve

GoBig

11-16-05, 11:24 AM

My recomendation is to return the set, not even based on your problem but on the many real problems this set has developed after 4000 Hrs of use. Please step away from the v500..

GoBig

11-16-05, 11:41 AM

Rapplin

11-16-05, 01:20 PM

Red blob gone....... pictures looks greeeeeeeeeeeaa............oh sh*t wait a minute...... just noticed something.......

Here we go again. Had the TV on for an hour or so. What do I see? A bunch of vertical bars and/or lines if you wish to call them all across the tv. Some on the right hand side are more prominent then the others, but they appear to be the same width apart from on another (when watching from 10-12 feet, appear to be an inch or two in width)
They aren't noticeable all the time, but this is only due to lighter scenes washing they out... they are most certainly there in a darker scene, it depends actually. My point is........they ARE THERE and not going anywhere soon.
They run the full height of the tv, from the bottom to the top of the screen.
I will try to take pics later on 2nite and show you guys.
I am calling them up now to complain etc...
I'll let you guys know what happens.

Anyone experience anything similar? (rpmfla, looks like I have identical problem, or very, very similar nonetheless)