Originally posted by nealp
Hi all,
I have an DVB 318 with HD component output firmware installed. The video is great. However, intermittently, the TV would show no video, and I have to unplug and reinstall the cables then the picture returns. Occasionally, the video is washed out, then disappeared a few seconds later. Besides the component cable comes with the DVD player, I have tried another set of 6' Monster cable. But nothing seems to change. I may have two sets of bad cable or just a media problem? any input will be appreciated.

Thanks,

I don't think you have two sets of bad cables. I believe you have a bad component video output with on your DVB318 or a bad component input on your monitor. Intermittent problems are always a pain until something goes out completely. I had a brief intermittent problem with a D-VHS VCR component output then the washed out colors became permanent and I got it repaired by JVC.

Chris

Has anyone ordered this player off amazon lately i wonder what there shipping for built dates?

Has anyone ordered this player off amazon lately i wonder what there shipping for built dates?

I just got back from UPS to return my Zenith 318 to Amazon. The build date was Oct. 2004. Upconvert did not function on the component inputs. I returned it because it cause horizontal lines (kinda like a ground loop interference) on my projector. My other dvd does not cause these lines but is a cheapo unit. I hope to get a panasonic 1080i upconvert model.

Originally posted by dapdrums
I just got back from UPS to return my Zenith 318 to Amazon. The build date was Oct. 2004. Upconvert did not function on the component inputs.

Did you install the "old" firmware? With that new a build date, the old firmware is necessary for the upconversion through component.

No, I didn't install the older firmware. I was aware that the unconversion was not going to work through component. You would think they would stop including a special piece of paper that says "Read Me First" where they say that the component cables WOULD produce a 1080i signal! I knew from reading the forums that it would not, based on the date. The reason I returned it was really the horizontal lines (might have been a ground problem). It it was grounding it is the only piece of electronics that ever cause the problem in my house. Many different musical amps have been plugged in, even a pa system and no audio buzz was ever heard. So, I'm going to try the Panasonic 1080i unit.

Just bought a DVB318 from Amazon (Oct 2004 build date).
Connected it to my new MIT 62725 DLP over component.
480p looks pretty darned good with this setup !

Does anybody have a similar setup ? If so, is it worth downgrading my sw to get the 1080i over component ? That was my original plan, but I don't want to fix something that isn't broken.

Originally posted by marino1313

480p looks pretty darned good with this setup !

... is it worth downgrading my sw to get the 1080i over component ?



The only point, really, in having a 318 is to use the upscaling features. As a 480p player it doesn't really compete well.

You will be amazed at how much better 1080i over component looks on this machine compared to its 480p delivery.

Great point wblynch! With DVDs still being 480i, the increase in picture quality must come mainly from the maintaining of the digital signal to the tv/projector and only minimally from the internal scaler.

This player has been in my system (Sony HS10, 100" diag. screen) for over 6 months. Anamorphic widescreen and 4:3 DVDs look great at 1080i when outputted over component cables. Non-anamorphic widescreen discs images are enlarged too much to be viewable when using the 720p or 1080i output over component cables. Switching to the 420p output corrects aspect ratio but produces severe banding.

Solution?

Enable the 318's DVI output by inserting the DVI cable (which disables the component outputs) and using the 420p setting. Cumbersome but effective.

However, the upscaling feature of the 318 makes anamorphic discs look like HD compared to the nonanamophic version.

Keep in mind that the newer models ship with updated firmware so you can't output 1080i over component cables. I suspect your 6 month old player has the older firmware that still allows for the upscaling. That said, I would think you could just hit the upconvert button on the front panel to toggle the component input between 480p and 1080i. Why do you need to plug in the dvi cord (and not use it?)

I just got this player (LG version) after my old Tosh dvd player died. It looks great at 1080i over component on my Hitachi rptv, but I have noticed one quirk. I have looked for this in the forums, so sorry if this has already been covered.

When I put in the Fifth Element SB-edition and go into the chapters menu, the player locks in for a fraction of a second, and then shifts slightly and the static images of the menu get jaggies, and the text becomes much less readable. This happens on 480p, 720p, 1080i and over S-video. Is this something in the player or my tv? Do I have a bad dvd player? The unit has performed flawlessly otherwise, and on a limited series of testing, this is the only dvd menu that I've found that does this.

Any insight appreciated.

Originally posted by dapdrums

Keep in mind that the newer models ship with updated firmware so you can't output 1080i over component cables.



Understand, then, that the earlier firmware is available to easily revert back so you CAN output 1080i over component cables.

:) :) :)

My DVB318 came with the same firmware version, 1.92. This was an October 2004 manufacture data. This firmware is the WORST of both worlds, it has no upconversion of copy protected DVDs over component, and does have a pronounced White Crush problem over DVI!

I found that this firmware does NOT permit upconverting through component connections with copy protected DVD's. I tested one of the World At War series DVD's. Every time I tried it at a higher res, I found that the output had been reset to 480P.

I was also really aghast to see that the DVI White Crush problem also existed with this firmware. Try looking at some scenes from Pitch Black. When people are outside on the multi-sunned planet, everything is supposed to look washed out. With the DVI hook up, the White Crush resulted in people's faces looking really wierd. There was no White Crush playing a non copy protected back up upconverted over Component Connections.

Fortunately, the downloadable firmware allowed me (labelled DVI version, actually version 1.91B) to eliminate the White Crush problem over DVI. I have not tried the component version, since I've chosen to use DVI. Many others have stated that it works, though.)

Now that I've changed the firmware, I am quite happy with the results!

regards,
nfsmith

Originally posted by fackert
Well, I purchased this model and it works pretty well.

Did the old-firmware flash, and now I have the following:

ZV700I1
stm 5589 cut2.1
Servo Ver. 005D
GUI Ver. 1.71D
Panel Ver. 2.04
Micom Ver. 1.92


Have only noticed a few things with it so far. Up Upconverts over the Component just fine - 720p for my Mits. It does have a few things that I have noticed so far;

Does not play Ice Age at all.

Does not upconvert Hellboy. Starts to, then just as the Menu hits - automatically drops back to 480p.


Upconverts everything else in my collection so far. I may burn Ice Age to another DVD format just to see if it can read it using DVD-R or DVD+R.

Any other movies that have been noticed as not upconverting?

Whats better to use the Dvi or Component with this player?

I just got this Zenith DVB 318 from Amazon. It is supposed to be a new one from "Amazon", not from a reseller listed in Amazon. I did get one from Amazon, however they send me an opened box one. Also, there were 2 old shipping label on the box, they are both from LG to Amazon. This makes me think that this is a refurbished unit, but it is supposed to be new. I called Amazon and they will send me another. But when I tracked one of the old UPS shipping label on the box, Amazon got 22 units from LG on 3/14, so most likely I will get a refurbish one again. What a !@#$@#.

Anyhow, when I tested this unit with old firmware I was able to upconvert thru componet. It is stucked at hello with both firmware version with DVI and it kept telling me to turn on the TV but it is on already. Also, the PQ does not look much different from 480i to 1080i when I am able to convert thru component. I might have gotten a bad one, or I should not ask too much with this upconversion thing at all.

Also, I have a funny TV input. I have a philips LCD 30", 30PF9946D. The TV only takes component or DVI input thru a VGA port. It has a VGA port for component or DVI input. So, I was connecting the component out from the DVD to the TV's VGA port via the Philips' component to VGA adapter. Would this make a difference? The DVD wont boot up at all when I conncect DVD's DVI out to TV's VGA in thru my own DVI-VGA adaptor.

The adapter might make a difference. Did you try component to component? That would take the adapter out of the equation.


Amazon sometimes does odd stuff like you've encountered. If you email them on it they will make it good at their expense (as you've found). If you get a player that works okay, and it seems to be open box/refurb. again, then I'd ask for a discount. That's sort of win/win and they're usually willing to do that.

Good luck and you should see a difference between 480i/480p and 1080i.
Best,
jeff

I have the DVB 318 for less than 6 months and some of the keys on the remote, specifically, the power, ch+/-,vol+/-, select/enter, are not working. I contacted Zenith and they thought it was a remote problem and not the unit and they send me a replacement which worked for a couple of days and the new remote stopped working again. Does any body else have this problem? Anybody can offer a solution? Thanks.

never had a problem with my remote.

kinda strange problem. what are you using for batteries ? low MAH rechargeables?

I doubt if the problem is related to batteries or the remote. Mind you, the other keys on the remote works fine except for those keys I mentioned. But those keys are very important as I can not use the setup function at all. I can't play a DVD because I can't go pass the menu screen. This is the second remote so the unit itself is the problem but I don't know what it is.

Try pushing the button on the lower left titled DVD before using the keys that aren't working and see if that fixes the problem. It is an obvious solution but you might have missed it.

Chris

Originally posted by Chris Gerhard
Try pushing the button on the lower left titled DVD before using the keys that aren't working and see if that fixes the problem. It is an obvious solution but you might have missed it.

Chris

Thanks Chris, that sloved the problem. I wonder why Zenith tech support didn't suggest that when we were trouble shooting the problem. Well come to think of it why did I overlook such obvious solution to an obvious problem. I guess everything seems easy after the fact.

Jeff,
Yes, I tried to go with component to component to the TV. However, this philips do not take 1080i by "regular" component cable. It has component input but it does not handles 1080i. This LCD TV only takes 1080i by HDMI or "component to VGA" which philips supply an adapter for that. Very strange, supposely, the VGA port will take DVI as well, but I have not sucessfully done that. From the threads the component is the best route so, I gave up on the DVI. I gave the DVD player another try and with a couple of different DVD title, now I see the improvement at 1080i and I am happy with it.

New question:

Now, I have another problem, occassionaly during a movie the screen would turn totally black for less then a second then it would continue to play the moive. Is this the black crush that pepole are talking about? I have experienced this with a couple of different title. Anyone knows what might be wrong? I will try to remember where the "black screen" come in and if it only appear at that certain poin then the disc is to blame or it appears randomly then the player might be at fault?

Edit:
I went back and found where the "black screen" occurs. Apparently, it appears only on certain places of the movie and not a random occurances. I guess it is the disc.

Originally posted by AeroHunter
The DVD wont boot up at all when I conncect DVD's DVI out to TV's VGA in thru my own DVI-VGA adaptor.

This LCD TV only takes 1080i by HDMI or "component to VGA" which philips supply an adapter for that. Very strange, supposely, the VGA port will take DVI as well, but I have not sucessfully done that.


You could probably use DVI->HDMI cable to get it to work. I doubt the DVI->VGA adaptor is passing the HDCP protocol. You can find DVI->HDMI cables online for 1/10 of the price of the popular retail stores. If you decide to go this route, you'll probably want to use the newer firmware to fix the dvi/white issue.

I'm gonna be ordering one of these units myself, biggest selling point to me is being able to upconvert over whichever I choose.

peace.
unloaded

I just got my player and it has an October, 2004 built date. Can someone explain in laymen's terms what firmware I need and how I go about downloading it, etc.? Why is this needed? Thanks.

"?Amazon sometimes does odd stuff like you've encountered. If you email them on it they will make it good at their expense (as you've found). If you get a player that works okay, and it seems to be open box/refurb. again, then I'd ask for a discount. That's sort of win/win and they're usually willing to do that."

Again, the replacement player is an opened boxed/refurb. item. I will keep it if works well. But I like to ask Amazon for a discount. What is a reasonable discount for items like this?

I think that if you suggest keeping the player as an open box, provide they give you a discount, they will make an offer. You then have to decide if it's enough. On a $200 player with all original packing material, 10-20% is probably reasonable.

Best,
jeff

i just got my player can you upconversion from your remote? How do you know if it is upconverting? My built date is Oct 2004 i am goping to use dvi should i download the firmware?

Player must be "stopped". hit the upconversion botton on the front panel. The display will show the current output resolution. Be patient as the display is a little bit slow. Verifying the output at the display end will depend at your display. with my display, tosh 50hx81, it will not allow stretching 1080i. So if I can't stretch it, it is 1080i.

Best,
jeff

Originally posted by greeno
I think that if you suggest keeping the player as an open box, provide they give you a discount, they will make an offer. You then have to decide if it's enough. On a $200 player with all original packing material, 10-20% is probably reasonable.

Best,
jeff

I did just that asking for a discount. She gave me $20 off + $10 coupon. I took the discount and keep the player.

Originally posted by ShinyPrincess
I just got my player and it has an October, 2004 built date. Can someone explain in laymen's terms what firmware I need and how I go about downloading it, etc.? Why is this needed? Thanks. What TV do you have and how do you want to watch a DVD, through the Component Inputs or HDMI? Your manual will tell you what inputs you have...if you want to connect it to an HDMI input you will need to purchase a cable that goes from DVI D to HDMI. If that is your option you don't need to worry about firmware which is an upgrade to the operating system of the DVD Player

I have had this unit since before Christmas, outputting 1080i component over 65" RP Mitsu. I am extremely pleased. A number of people have asked if this is Blu-Ray, the PQ is that good. I just watched the new release of Back to the Future, and I cannot imagine how it could have been better. It is great to find a superior product which does not cost an arm and a leg (and it doesn't even use gasoline!!).
I ended up with this unit after reading extensively in AVS Forum, and then returning a Sammy 841 and ordering the Zenith. Obviously, I am happy I made the change.

Thanks for the reply. I have a Sony XBR910 and I'm connecting the DVD player from the DVI on the DVD player to the DVI on the television. As I said, the date on the DVD player is October, 2004 ... do I need the firmware for the up conversion to work?

What if i was doing dvi to dvi do i need to worry about the firmware?

You only need the older firmware if you want to upscale using the component outputs. Using the DVI outputs you should be fine, unless newer firmware than you have is released and it adresses issues you might be having. Basically you should be fine right out of the box.

peace.
unloaded

Originally posted by ShinyPrincess
Thanks for the reply. I have a Sony XBR910 and I'm connecting the DVD player from the DVI on the DVD player to the DVI on the television. As I said, the date on the DVD player is October, 2004 ... do I need the firmware for the up conversion to work? NO, from DVI to DVI the upgrade (firmware) is a already part of your DVD player. I too have an October 2004 build, but did need to upgrade the firmware as I want to use Component to Component. To use your player turn the TV on first, then turn on the Player, select DVI input on TV and then press up conversion on the player...slowly..and watch the screen for the up conversion to take effect. Good luck!! :p

After reading everything there was to read on upconverting players, and only wanting to spend 200 bucks canadian.... I decided to buy the LG!

I am feeding 1080i through component to VGA adapter then into my benq 6100. I needed to apply the older firmware, as some dvd's would not upconvert, some did... applied the fireware and everything plays 1080i now? hmm go figure? Now let me start by saying this: after reading alot of the comments on here I wasn't sure that upconversion would look all that great with a native 800x600 projector, and the fact that i run it in 16x9 too....


WOW, WOW wow wow, I dont care what anyone says, I can see with my own eyes... my 93 inch 16x9 picture is AMAZING! I am a very picky person, but I am truely happy with the overall results of this player. It made a big difference in overall clarity and shapness of the picture. The picture jumps out at you.

If you have a higher native res projector or TV and want to use component upconversion, this model is a no brainer.... if you have a lower res projector like my benq 6100 or a infocus x1/4800 or optoma 30 etc.... just buy it, its cheap, and looks great, it will make DVDs look better than just 480p.

Yes there are some noted troubles with this player.... but if you are using component .... just buy it.... thats all i can say!

One of the things that I liked best with the 318 was the , skip title/preview feature. Being able to jump directly to the movie was a nice feature.

On a side note, I'm actually parting with my 318 which still does 1080i with component if anyone is interested. I'm moving to a dorm and will be using a HTPC while I'm there.

I just purchased the 318 to replace my Panny RP56. I have a Nec LT150, which has an incredible picture but a terrible scaler. After installing the old firmware, the picture looks great. Very obvious inprovement over the RP56, which is a very good player to start with. Thanks all, now for the task of finding discrete remote code for my Pronto Neo.

Jon

Would someone be kind enough to email me the old firmware?
Just when I get the 318, I try to go to Keohi's site and its down. :(
I need the version that enables component 1080i upconversion.

Thanks,
Jeff

jeff.faith@verizon.net

Got the firmware now. Thanks.

Am I getting upscaling via component? How can you really tell?

I finally picked up on of these players from Amazon.com with a Oct 2004 build date. I have it hooked up via S-video and Component to a Philips 30PW8402 (inexpensive HDTV from Costco). I have not re-flashed the version (yet).

When I press the "upconvert" button, the Zenith display cycles through 480/720/1080. The TV doesn't appear to support 720p, (which is OK I guess). The interesting thing is that the picture is certainly a little different between 480 & 1080 but the TV doesn't seem to have a mode to tell me which signal it's receiving. The TVs geometry is slightly different between 480 & 1080 and I suspect I'm getting 1080i, what's a good way to tell?

Thanks,
Mark

you can tell a huge difference between 1080i and 480p.

another way is the severe color bleeding on the logo screen on 480p. but you really can tell the difference easily between 480p and 1080i as 480p has got to be the worst I have ever seen on a machine.

Mark Hoy,

You're probably not getting upcoversion over component with that player. The build date, thus firmware is too new. You need to downgrade the firmware to the older one to allow it.

peace.
unloaded

Funny thing is I think I am getting upconversion. As bruman suggested, the logo screen has a bit of bleed at 480 and none at 1080, so it's certainly doing something. I'll have to go into the build version of the s/w to see what it's running. It sure doesn't look like I got a refurbished unit.

I've looked through a large amount of this posting, but not the entire 65 pages of 1290 posts.
What's the latest build number?

Thanks in advance,
Mark

Originally posted by Mark Hoy
Funny thing is I think I am getting upconversion. As bruman suggested, the logo screen has a bit of bleed at 480 and none at 1080, so it's certainly doing something. I'll have to go into the build version of the s/w to see what it's running. It sure doesn't look like I got a refurbished unit.

The logo has no relevance to upscaling firmware version. It is a protected DVD that the new firmware will not permit to upscale. DVDs without protection can be upscaled. My DVB318 with October 2004 build date does not allow upconversion over component with protected DVDs.

Chris

Like Chris says, the upconverting stops once you put in a dvd, unless its a home made one you're watching. You can get the firmware here:
http://www.keohi.com/keohihdtv/experttips/michaeltlv/lg_dv7832_firmware.html

You want the component version. If I remember right, you might have to rename the file to the same name as the dvi one.

peace.
unloaded

QUOTE]if you want to connect it to an HDMI input you will need to purchase a cable that goes from DVI D to HDMI.[/QUOTE]

Just to confirm (unless anyone can tell me differently), this will not work with this player until LG/Zenith fix the firmware to support DVI to HDMI. The handshaking is improper and will freeze your player.

Don't hold your breath, I called Zenith and nothing's on the horizon re. a DVI-HDMI firmware upgrade. I'm hoping a HDMI-DVI converter (not an adapter!) would work but I'm hesitant to fork over close to $40.00.

Here's the link:

http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/DVI_monitor_cables.html

I actually tried the Monster Adapter and a Converter cable and neither worked...

I did read from here: http://www.digitalhomecanada.com/forum/showthread.php?p=175526#post175526 that a "supposed" LG Rep said that Belkin cables will work... But spending $100+ for a cable for something that may work is not something I want to try... any other takers :)

I successfully reflashed to the component version with the name "lgromout.bin". Thanks for all the help.

Hi, guys sorry if this has been asked before, I am new to this. I just bought an LGDVB418 with a november 04 manufacture date for 199.00. Anyway does the firmware upgrade apply to this particular model? Thanks in advance.

No it doesn't. the 418 is a different beast.



Originally posted by 95avusblue
Hi, guys sorry if this has been asked before, I am new to this. I just bought an LGDVB418 with a november 04 manufacture date for 199.00. Anyway does the firmware upgrade apply to this particular model? Thanks in advance.

You mean that I won't be able to upconvert using component output? Should I return it then? Thanks.

Look here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=426637&highlight=dvb418). Apparently not.

jeff

Thanks Greeno. Will it upconvert if I used the HDMI output along with a DVI adapter to connect to my Hitachi? If so, is all the added expense worth it?
What model should I buy?

If you go through that thread, I think you'll find that it's not that great of a player. Today, the "best" is probably the s97, but read through that thread before you decide. The main issue you'll run into is macroblocking. Apparently with the lates firmware, mb is minimal. My 318 also has it, but I've only realy noticed it on one title, again YMMV. People also like the oppo player (see the longish thread on it).

Personally I'm partial to panny. Look through the THREAD (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=463025) and see what people think. Be sure when you consider costs that you factor in cables/adapters. The options are pretty well covered in the s97 thread I link.

Best,
jeff

Thanks Jeff. With the panny's HDMI going into my DVI projection tv will the mage upconvert using an adapter? Thanks again.
Jay

I'm having an issue with sound that maybe someone could help me out with... DV7832NXC (DV318) hooked up to a Sanyo HT30744 HTDV.

The sound balance in DVDs is way off... voices are drowned out and music and sound effects are blasting.

I assume it's becasue I'm going through my TVs speakers and not through a true 5.1 setup. I see when I press the audio button on the DVD remote that I'm in 5.1 mode but is there a way to get it to be in 2.0 mode? Or is this a limitation on the DVD itself? (DVD is "The Incredibles", but it also does it in others)

I know there are bunch of audio settings in the player's setup menu, but I'm not sure what each means and which I should be using for my setup... ie: bitrate, PCM?

Any help would be appreciated.

95avusblue,
It should, but look through the panny thread and see what people got to work and what people had trouble with.

Best,
jeff

Originally posted by Mako22


I see when I press the audio button on the DVD remote that I'm in 5.1 mode but is there a way to get it to be in 2.0 mode?



If you keep pressing the Audio button it should cycle through all the available audio formats, including alternative languanges.

Another option is to go to the DVD menu itself where there is often a selection of different audio options.

I just got the player and it seems to work fine the only complaint i have is when its switching menues it seems to make a load loading noise. Has anyone else noticed this?

Loading noise is probably common. I have it as well.

High Def 03, I have that noise as well... i assume too that it is normal.

wblynch, yes I do this but there is no option for 2.0 in ENG without the commentary. I assume this is just a limitation on the DVD but I should be able to change the DVD player settings such that I can only output 2.0 format no?

I look in the DVD setup menu under audio and I don't see any setting specifically for 5.1 or 2.0. Anyone know from the possible options in the menu, one that might be the setting for this?

Just to make it easier, here are the audio fields with the choices I've made:
I have this player connected to my HDTV through component for watching DVDs. My HDTV can do 5.1 surround apparently. I used the THX Optimizer and it sounded through 5 different speakers... at least I think it did... maybe it's just 2 speakers with environmental effects?

Dolby Digital / DTS / MPEG
Off (for DTS)

Sample Freq. (Frequency)
48 kHz

Dynamic Range Control (DRC)
DRC On

Vocal
Off

Re-visiting after a l-o-n-g time ... I had purchased one of the first DVB318 units about 18-20 months ago when they were relatively unknown. Was tickled about the upconverted PQ via component.

Now I stepped up to a DVI-capable projector (infocus 4805) ... I would much rather use DVI ... but the white crush problem bothers me.

So ... I downloaded the .bin file to fix this issue .. but want to get my facts straight before I mess with the firmware (never had a need to do it before) ...

Questions ...

1. Will the white-crush fix ... mess anything else up as far as features of the player ? Will it effect the PQ of the component out (in case I have to use it in the future) ?

2. Where can I get the original firmware ... just in case things dont pan out.

3. Is this white crush problem (I am still waiting for my digital cable to arrive) ... evident only when upconverting ... or does it occur at 480p as well ?

Thank you in advance.

Max

I am using the DVB318 connected by DVI to a Panasonic PT-L500U projector. The new firmware does fix the white crush over DVI problem in my opinion but it will of course disable upconversion over component with protected DVDs. The Keohi site listed in this thread has the old firmware. The DVB318 is so terrible at 480p that I couldn't care less if white crush exists since that would be the least of the problems so I can't give you an answer to that question. I only find my DVB318 to be acceptable at 1080i but I am very happy with the 1080i performance. I actually prefer the DVI picture with the new firmware to the component picture with the old firmware although I seem to be in the minority based on the other opinions I have read.

Chris

I set my 318 at 1080i and I can't set it back to 480i. How do I let the 318 feed 480i to my projector?

From the first post in this thread:

************VERIFYING UPCONVERSION*************

The only way to do this is to press the upconversion button on the front of the unit and read the display on the front of the unit. Press the button once and wait a few seconds. Repeat until unit is set wherever you want it.

The unit WILL remember which setting for upconversion you used.Just make sure you are in STOP mode when you press the button.

Originally posted by seymouru
From the first post in this thread:

Just make sure you are in STOP mode when you press the button.

I know that, but doing that only giving me the option for 480p, 720p &1080i NOT 480i.

Originally posted by Alex solomon
I know that, but doing that only giving me the option for 480p, 720p &1080i NOT 480i.

318 can only output 480i from the S-Video or composite video outputs.

I just bought a DVB 318. It says on the box that it will do upconversion over component and there is a yellow "Important Notice" in the box that says it will do upconversion over component, but it will only do 480p. What's up with that? Is this a permanent thing, or will they fix it with the next firmware release?

You need the PREVIOUS firmware to re-enable upconversion over component. Search this thread for the links and instructions.

Don't forget, when you burn the old firmware to a cd you need to rename the files first and finalize the cd for the player to read it.

All the instructions are in this FAQ

I just won one of these off of Ebay (Old version - Mar. 2003) so it should be able to do 1080i upconversion over component. My concern now is I just finished perusing a thread that dealt with upconverting players confusing sets to using the incorrect color space because the set thinks it's receiving a HD signal. Is this something to be concerned about with this player. I don't remember reading anyone having the green depression issue using this player. The display is an older Toshiba CRT H81 that I have in the game room and I thought this player would get it some extra mileage. Thanks for any assistance!!!

it (green depression) is an issue, but IMO a very small one. With your set (and mine 50hx81), upconversion is the only way to go, since the internal 540p upconvert is so terrible. One of the sigma designs designers posted some info (pictures) of how it makes a difference. You'll only be able to tell if you pull up the colobar test patterns. Also, with my set, I was never able to balance green exactly at 480p. It's just an issue with the toshiba color decoder.

As I said, you'll be happy with this player on your display.

Best,
jeff

Anyone know how to get rid of the extra pixels on the right of the screen this player is out putting through component via 1080i. Is there a service menu or something I'm missing. nothing worse than a player that adds a black bar on the right

The image is actually shifted to the left. I had to use the TV's controls to move it horizontally to the right. Every thing looks fine now.

peace.
unloaded

Thanks for the feedback!! I have another question. I have all my sources going to a 5803 in the room where I have this set up and for some reason the Denon doesn't pass thru the signal. It doesn't have an issue passing thru the HD signal from my cable box so why would it have an issue with the DVB 318?

Originally posted by greeno
it (green depression) is an issue, but IMO a very small one. With your set (and mine 50hx81), upconversion is the only way to go, since the internal 540p upconvert is so terrible. One of the sigma designs designers posted some info (pictures) of how it makes a difference. You'll only be able to tell if you pull up the colobar test patterns. Also, with my set, I was never able to balance green exactly at 480p. It's just an issue with the toshiba color decoder.

As I said, you'll be happy with this player on your display.

Best,
jeff

Now I a really confused. I read through a bunch of this thread and now I am not sure of anything. I have a 55in Mitsu with component and DVI inputs, so either will work for me. I prefer using the component because I already have the cables. Here goes:
If I buy a Zenith DVB318 today can it upconvert a rented DVD without any upgrades?
If so, would I use the DVI or Component conncetions?
Thanks

Originally posted by DanKell
Now I a really confused. I read through a bunch of this thread and now I am not sure of anything. I have a 55in Mitsu with component and DVI inputs, so either will work for me. I prefer using the component because I already have the cables. Here goes:
If I buy a Zenith DVB318 today can it upconvert a rented DVD without any upgrades?
If so, would I use the DVI or Component conncetions?
Thanks

If it has a pre July 2004 build date it will be fine to upconvert over component - if not you can change the firmware that is located at the Keohi website - if it has an after July 2004 build date you could use DVI and it will be fine.

OK, I have a DVI input. Is there any problem upconverting rented DVDs?

Originally posted by buzzly
mako22:

Hate to be the bearer of the bad news DVB-318's DVI does not work with Sanyo HT30744 via DVI-HDMI cable. I have both units.

Having said that, DVB318's upconvertion to 1080i still looks much better on the HT30744 than the non-upconverted (using component input of course)

The Zenith DVB318 will not work with Sony 55SX955 via DVI-to-HDI Cable (or adapter).

scout

Can anyone shed some light on my predicament below? Thanks!!

Originally posted by Leroy_Haynes
Thanks for the feedback!! I have another question. I have all my sources going to a 5803 in the room where I have this set up and for some reason the Denon doesn't pass thru the signal. It doesn't have an issue passing thru the HD signal from my cable box so why would it have an issue with the DVB 318?

Originally posted by Leroy_Haynes
Can anyone shed some light on my predicament below? Thanks!!

I am using the Denon 2803 and the DVB-318 with component.

I have had no problem passing the signal through my Denon.

Perhaps it is a connection issue? Or are the inputs reassignable on your AVR?

It may even be that your AVR is faulty. Did you try connecting your player to other connections to determine if the DVD connection is good? Or maybe connecting your player through the HDTV connection?

It would be sad if your receiver is broken.

Thanks for the feedback. MY 5803 started making this clicking noise and I got no picture so I disconnected the DVB-318 quickly. :) I will try again checking my connections and report back.

Originally posted by wblynch
I am using the Denon 2803 and the DVB-318 with component.

I have had no problem passing the signal through my Denon.

Perhaps it is a connection issue? Or are the inputs reassignable on your AVR?

It may even be that your AVR is faulty. Did you try connecting your player to other connections to determine if the DVD connection is good? Or maybe connecting your player through the HDTV connection?

It would be sad if your receiver is broken.

Originally posted by Leroy_Haynes
Thanks for the feedback. MY 5803 started making this clicking noise and I got no picture so I disconnected the DVB-318 quickly. :) I will try again checking my connections and report back.

Leroy,

check your audio connections as well. I'm using the optical link on mine but there could be an error in your audio connection for this source that is causing your Denon to react.

I also thought that the sound the Denon was making was was related to the audio side but assumed that it was a video issue because I thought that I would still have seen a picture if I had a audio issue. By the way, I had the player hooked up via coax but I will also give the optical a shot and see if it makes a difference. Thanks as always for the feedback!!

Originally posted by wblynch
Leroy,

check your audio connections as well. I'm using the optical link on mine but there could be an error in your audio connection for this source that is causing your Denon to react.

Re-checked my hookups and all is good in my world now. I don't know if my digital coax was bent or not in all the way but the sound is great and I'm getting an awesome picture as well. Thanks again!!

Originally posted by Leroy_Haynes
I also thought that the sound the Denon was making was was related to the audio side but assumed that it was a video issue because I thought that I would still have seen a picture if I had a audio issue. By the way, I had the player hooked up via coax but I will also give the optical a shot and see if it makes a difference. Thanks as always for the feedback!!

Originally posted by Leroy_Haynes
Re-checked my hookups and all is good in my world now. I don't know if my digital coax was bent or not in all the way but the sound is great and I'm getting an awesome picture as well. Thanks again!!

Great news !!

Glad to hear your receiver did not need repair.

Hi all

I have had the dvb318 for a long time and have been very pleased with it, although I have noticed now that there is a sound sync problem that I had not previously encountered. The sound seems to be preceding the video. The sound is perfectly fine, but just a little off. Anyone else with this problem and also how to fix?

china, this seems to be an issue that others have experienced too. I know it's long ;) but try searching back through this thread to see what others did. I don't have this problem BTW.

I did, however "fix" my issue with the sound being unbalanced. The voices in my DVDs seemed drowned out compared to the sound effects and music. I couldn't find in the DVD player menu where to change anything that made a difference, so going back to the user's manual I noticed that the remote control button for MUTE is also SOUND (ie: SOUND/MUTE) When I push this while a DVD is playing I can turn off the 3D SUR option.

This seems to have put my sound back to being more balanced, as I am only using my TV speakers.

Maybe I didn't look hard enough in the setup menu, but I don't remember seeing an option for that in there.

I have one of these players, why does it take so long to open the disc tray? It takes forever to start playing a movie... anyone else notice this?

The picture is great, but the mechanics of this player stink... any workarounds?

try turning the autoplay feature off.

Anyone use this player on a tube crt? I have a toshiba 36hf73 and am currently using a philips dvd q50. Picture is great. Players if very sensitive to rented dvds and has a very slow layer change. Occasionally the upper screen on a 4:3 movie is warped. Would like to get a new player but I have been told I would not see much difference on a crt. Tried a sammy 931 but the black crush was terrible and I did not see a difference in PQ.
Any advice would be appreciated. Joseph

Need help to determine if my player is defective!!

I got this DVB318 with Oct 2004 build date. I succesfully roll it back to the old firmware. It is hooked up to my Philips 30"LCD via component.

The player is working well with upconversion and gives me good pictures. The problem I am having is that it sometime gives a total back screen for a second or so during a movie. It will happen at the exact same place over and over again. At first I thought it must be the disc, bad disc, scratched disc, or bad copied disc. Then with some disc it happens so often that is is really annoying. So, I tried the same disc with my computer DVD drive and another player, the black screen does not interrupt the movies likes it did with the DVB318. What could be wrong? a defective player?

Thanks for any help or suggestion.

Edit:
I did futher testing. It is the upconversion that is causing the black screen. I tried playing the problem scene in 480p 720p and 1080i. The problem only occur in 1080i. I got this DVD player for 1080i but it is not playing properly. hum... any thoughts?

Update:
Just called Zenith. I was told that I am not able to upconvert some movies to 1080i because of copy protecton law. I kind of mention that I have the older batch of DVD player and it should upcovert then she said no Zenith's DVD player will do that. hum.. doese old firmware has limits too?

AeroHunter, it sounds like you have a bad player or some discs that can't be played properly by it at a minimum. If you have the old firmware, it should upscale all DVDs. Are these commercial DVDs or DVDs you have recorded?

Chris

Originally posted by Chris Gerhard
AeroHunter, it sounds like you have a bad player or some discs that can't be played properly by it at a minimum. If you have the old firmware, it should upscale all DVDs. Are these commercial DVDs or DVDs you have recorded?

Chris

It is a original commerical DVD. The DVD is Finding Nemo, black screen occurs at 11:40 into the movie and countless time afterward. I lost count and track. But this is the time frame that I did the testing. I have narraow the problem down to 1080i. It plays fine at 480p and 720p as the CSR from Zenith explained. So, either they have a known problem at 1080i and covered it up with copy protection excuse or I have a bad player. The disc should be fine since it plays at 480p and 720p and at my other non-scaling play and computer. Anyone has this problem with the player and Older firmware via component.

Well, I am going to try and get a DVI to HDMI cable(my TV has HDMI port) and use the newer frimware to give it a try and see if the problem is still there. This will elimanate the copy protection explaination from Zenith CSR.

Originally posted by AeroHunter
It is a original commerical DVD. The DVD is Finding Nemo, black screen occurs at 11:40 into the movie and countless time afterward. I lost count and track. But this is the time frame that I did the testing. I have narraow the problem down to 1080i. It plays fine at 480p and 720p as the CSR from Zenith explained. So, either they have a known problem at 1080i and covered it up with copy protection excuse or I have a bad player. The disc should be fine since it plays at 480p and 720p and at my other non-scaling play and computer. Anyone has this problem with the player and Older firmware via component.

Well, I am going to try and get a DVI to HDMI cable(my TV has HDMI port) and use the newer frimware to give it a try and see if the problem is still there. This will elimanate the copy protection explaination from Zenith CSR.

My DVB318 can play Finding Nemo without those problems over component or DVI.

Chris

Originally posted by Chris Gerhard
My DVB318 can play Finding Nemo without those problems over component or DVI.

Chris

Did you make your DVB318 region free? I did not. I am thinking to do it. Would this make a difference?

It looks like DVI-HDMI will not work after reading the thread some more. Anyone actually got the DVI-HDMI to work?

Originally posted by AeroHunter
Did you make your DVB318 region free? I did not. I am thinking to do it. Would this make a difference?

It looks like DVI-HDMI will not work after reading the thread some more. Anyone actually got the DVI-HDMI to work?

No, I don't have a region free DVD player since I only have region 1 DVDs. That should not make a difference playing a region I Finding Nemo. I have mine connected DVI>DVI currently.

Chris

Originally posted by Mako22

Maybe I didn't look hard enough in the setup menu, but I don't remember seeing an option for that in there.

If you bring up the on screen display, the second to last icon from the bottom is a speaker icon. It let's you switch between normal and 3d modes.

Originally posted by Chris Gerhard
No, I don't have a region free DVD player since I only have region 1 DVDs. That should not make a difference playing a region I Finding Nemo. I have mine connected DVI>DVI currently.

Chris

Chris,

thanks for helping me.. I solve my problem.
OH MY GOD, I am so embarrassed now. There is nothing wrong with the DVB 318 at all, the player is fine. To make the long story short, I had bad cable. I change and remove some cable, problem is gone. Thanks for reading and helping with my stupid problem.

Originally posted by AeroHunter
Chris,

thanks for helping me.. I solve my problem.
OH MY GOD, I am so embarrassed now. There is nothing wrong with the DVB 318 at all, the player is fine. To make the long story short, I had bad cable. I change and remove some cable, problem is gone. Thanks for reading and helping with my stupid problem.

It is always good to see a problem fixed so return of a properly working player becomes unnecessary. That didn't sound like a bad cable problem although intermittent problems are often indicative of a bad cable. Bad cables are the cause of a significant percentage of picture problems and I have solved more than one problem with my system by changing cables.

Chris

HELP!!! My 318 powers on but none of the buttons on the remote & and unit itself work. I tried a quick power on and off to reset it but still have the problem. Anyone suggest a solution.

So I have had the 318 for awhile now. I have maybe watched 6 dvds on it. The buttons all seem to work and I was wondering what could possibly be wrong with them. Last night I put in a dvd and Wallah a problem. The up, down, left right button do not work on the setup bar. I had the audio set to PCM and now I can not edit at all. I really need a solution to this problem. Is there anyone who might know how to fix this problem?

Originally posted by dpoverlord
So I have had the 318 for awhile now. I have maybe watched 6 dvds on it. The buttons all seem to work and I was wondering what could possibly be wrong with them. Last night I put in a dvd and Wallah a problem. The up, down, left right button do not work on the setup bar. I had the audio set to PCM and now I can not edit at all. I really need a solution to this problem. Is there anyone who might know how to fix this problem?

Make sure you press the DVD button on the remote.

I will try that when I head home. I push the setup button and that shows fine. Will check again. Thx!

Originally posted by Chris Gerhard
It is always good to see a problem fixed so return of a properly working player becomes unnecessary. That didn't sound like a bad cable problem although intermittent problems are often indicative of a bad cable. Bad cables are the cause of a significant percentage of picture problems and I have solved more than one problem with my system by changing cables.

Chris

Chris,

Apparently, my problem came back. Now I notice the black out screen interrupt the movie when flashes, bright light explosion during the movie. Is this the white crush? But I have it connected via component, so the white crush should not be a concern, right? Well, I have a strange setup, the Philip LCD does not take 1080i by component, it take 1080i by a computer like VGA port. It comes with a adapter(component to VGA). Well, Philips call the VGA port DVI. Would that have cause the white crush?

HELP!!! My 318 powers on but none of the buttons on the remote & and unit itself work. I tried a quick power on and off to reset it but still have the problem. Anyone suggest a solution.

So, basically the unit is frozen, nothing seems to work?

I had this when I hooked up DVI->HDMI on my TV. Is this the connection you're using? If so, try Component connections. This is a known issue with this unit.

Originally posted by Mako22
So, basically the unit is frozen, nothing seems to work?

I had this when I hooked up DVI->HDMI on my TV. Is this the connection you're using? If so, try Component connections. This is a known issue with this unit.

I isolated the problem to the DVI connection. Works fine with component.

Alex, were you going in through HDMI on an HDTV?
This was the only scenario that I knew caused this freezing.

Originally posted by Mako22
Alex, were you going in through HDMI on an HDTV?
This was the only scenario that I knew caused this freezing.

I was using a 10 meter Infocus M1 to DVI cable to my Infocus 4805 pj.

I love my 318, but the IR receiver in the unit is total crap. I have to aim my Pronto Neo directly at the DVD player for it to work. I've heard other people complain about the remote, but it's not the remote, it's the receiver. Anyone else have this problem or solution?

Jon

I'm having a problem with my Zenith DVB318 when displaying menus. When a DVD menu first appears it is very clear and very sharp. After 1 or 2 seconds, the clarity stops and everything becomes pixilated. The closest thing I can compare it to is anti-aliasing, like on a video card. Smooth, curved edges get the "jaggies". If I change to another menu, everything appears fine again for a second or two, and then it goes right back to being pixilated/jaggy/etc.

I have the DVB318 connected to my Mitsubishi 65413 rear projection TV via component cables (decent ones I purchased at Fry's). I have not tried another connection yet to see if that fixes the problem.

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.

CactusJak, I have the same problem and posted the issue here, but nobody replied. I'm presuming that you're using the older firmware? I've got it connected to a RPTV via component. It doesn't do it on all menus for me, but notably on 5th Element Superbit. Pausing in the middle of a movie does not seem to do it either, so I've just ignored it. Does anyone else see this? Could it be a component video issue?

I just got the DVB318 today (from Amazon) and connected to my Mitsubishi rear projection TV via component cables and I just so happend to put the 5th Element Superbit in and I also noticed this, the menu looking out of focus or what ever.. Though The movie itself Looked great!

I did flash it to the old firmware. I just used XP (not nero) renamed it, droped it on the CD (does XP finilize the CD?) and it worked like a charm just took a sec.

I am at work now and have not been able to test it out real well yet.

I did however have time to tune my TV with AVIA.. So far I am happy with what I have seen. As long as the out of focus is only in the menu's (or just some?) I'll be happy.


Mongoose

Not to beat a dead horse (well maybe:), but I would like to ask folks to critically observe their DB318 to see if they notice any video-audio lagging problems.

I use DVI to a Samsung HLP5674 and fully realize that the set has a lag problem of its own, but I also believe the 318 is adding additional video lag.

thanks everybody

Well I have been testing mine and here is what I have seen:

The out of focus menus, Though not on all DVD's

Microblocking, yep it's there (at least with some movies?), I noticed it last night while watching The Notebook and now I can't unsee it.

On dark scenes there is a dark line that moves up and down the screen almost like a shadow or something. (this one is hard to explain but I have seen it on every movie that I have watched now.)

I have not had any sound lag issues. (I am using the coaxial)

I am using the Componet cable that came with the DVD player and might try a nicer one see if it fixes anything.

I did keep my other player hooked up and I think i'll just use both for now.

Originally posted by Mongose101
Well I have been testing mine and here is what I have seen:

The out of focus menus, Though not on all DVD's



Mongose, what kind of tv (rptv, lcd, etc) are you using? I'm wondering if the menu issue has anything to do with the tv. And does yours lock on for a half-second and then shift?

Btw, I have switched out my component cables to no effect.

I have not noticed the dark line effect that you see. Could this be an interference issue for you? Maybe different cables will help this particular issue.

While watchning a movie the other night, I made the audio selection for Dolby surround twice. I got into the DVD options menu and hit the corresponding key. Not sure if it took, I hit it again. The audio lag was very bad, at least a full second. I shut down the player completely, rebooted and only hit it once and it was fine. First time with this issue. I have an October build with the component upconvert flash from a previous software version.

edit-I have a Toshiba RPTV and my menu is also fuzzy, but the movie quality is excellent (1080i).

Mongose, what kind of tv (rptv, lcd, etc) are you using? I'm wondering if the menu issue has anything to do with the tv. And does yours lock on for a half-second and then shift?

I have a Mitsubishi WS-A55 RPTV and yes seems like it's fine for a sec and then shifts.

Originally posted by Mongose101
I have a Mitsubishi WS-A55 RPTV and yes seems like it's fine for a sec and then shifts.

Ok, I have a Hit RPTV, so is it only a problem with RPTVs? Could someone with another type of tv check to see if this menu shift happens on their set? 5th Element SB would work.

Thanks

I have my 318 hooked up the my sp7205 by DVI. I am getting a lot of afterimage overlay on the picture. We were watching a scene in a cave yesterday, when brite images changed to dark areas the area that was brite would remain as a green blocky afterimage. We played the same scene on our Panny plasma with the Denon 1600 and there was no problem. Do I have a faulty 318? Is there a fix for this?
Thanks,
Jason

Is this was is meant by macroblocking?

Originally posted by jasonDono
I have my 318 hooked up the my sp7205 by DVI. I am getting a lot of afterimage overlay on the picture. We were watching a scene in a cave yesterday, when brite images changed to dark areas the area that was brite would remain as a green blocky afterimage. We played the same scene on our Panny plasma with the Denon 1600 and there was no problem. Do I have a faulty 318? Is there a fix for this?
Thanks,
Jason

Anyone know how to change the screen saver on this DVD player?

Instead of the DVD diamond logo bouncing around, it'd be nice to have a 30 inch high definition aquarium :) or something like that...

Is this screen saver in the same format as a Windows SCR? or could a SCR be converted to work?

1st equipment list.
Mit 65907 RP, Yamaha RXV1400 audio

sources: 4DTV satellite, analog and QAM HDTV stations, Pan DMRE80 recorder, and LG 3410A HD tuner recorder. DVB318.( running LG software so upconverting all disks)

Audio /video delay using the 318: If anything AUDIO delay. (video precedes audio.) Close to matched but definite slight shift. The yamaha has the ability to delay audio in its settings, and set to zero there is still a slight shift. Increasing delay makes it worse. If you are seeing the opposite and your audio receiver can handle delay, then use it. I'm not sure if my receiver has a bulit in delay ALL the time. But definitely the video is first.

Video delay would be a natural occurrence with any scaler, as the frame buffer has to be 1st read into memory, then manipulated and then buffered out to display. Any good design should have no more than one or one and a half FRAME of delay. So 33 - 49 msec would be natural. On older or cheaper designs the audio usually wasn't delayed also, just as an oversight or cost saving (negligible cost). Newer players that scale SHOULD take it into effect, and delay the audio in buffer memory to match the video delay due to the scaling. I don't know if the LG/Zenith has an audio delay buffer. But on my set up the audio is TOO late. Not sure why. Since I'm feeding the tv with 1080i, the Mitsubishi should be straight display., so there is no additional delay or processing there. Leaving the Yamaha, and 318.

As far as other things. I just got the 318 (from an unusual source that isn't generally available) brand new. Very pleased so far.

I was pleased to learn that this player will also play an ISO formatted DVD of mp3 music. So I can load one disk in with about 4. 5 Gig of Mp3s, start it up and the music is set for the evening (and the next day too.) The limit is 999 songs. Just turn off the screen, or select a different video source.

This is the only DVD player I have found that will recognize a DVD (not CD) of MP3s and not have a problem. The LVD2001 I have will start playing , and then randomly stop after 10-20 songs (apparently NOT unusual). The LVD now goes to e-bay I guess, since it had no other redeeming factor in its favor than upconverting (poorly).

Originally posted by AeroHunter


Apparently, my problem came back. Now I notice the black out screen interrupt the movie when flashes, bright light explosion during the movie. Is this the white crush? But I have it connected via component, so the white crush should not be a concern, right? Well, I have a strange setup, the Philip LCD does not take 1080i by component, it take 1080i by a computer like VGA port. It comes with a adapter(component to VGA). Well, Philips call the VGA port DVI. Would that have cause the white crush?


After speaking to LG/Zenith CSR a few times, they do not think the problem is with the DVB318, but they will send me a new unit to make sure. They think the problem might be with my TV. They think the signal from the DVB 318 might be too strong for the TV so the TV blocks it out and I might need to adjust TV to handle the strong signal from the DVB318. Well, I will have to contact Philips now after testing out the new DVB318.

AeroHunter - there was some discussion about Sony CRT RPTV's having issues with sync with bright flashes that required a hardware fix involving a few capacitors. It's linked at the beginning of the FAQ I believe. Maybe you should contact the manufacturer of your component->VGA adapter.

This is not white crush. White crush is when the top X number shades of white all blend together and become identical.

My near-mint 150 hours max LG 7832 is to sell with box and everything, pretty mint condition. I just don't use it anymore since I got a xp30.

With it will come the region-free CD as well as two other CD (each with one firmware) to toggle back and forth at will.

For those living in Canada who would be interested, PM me !

roreman: I have a RPTV connected via component, and I have the same symptoms you do. I'm running the original firmware that came with the unit, altho my unit/firmware is old enough to already have the upconvert over component feature.

Not all DVD menus get fuzzy, and there's a slight pause as it shifts from clear to fuzzy. I haven't switched out my cables yet, but I don't think that's the issue since some DVDs are fine and others are not. You mentioned that you swapped cables and it didn't help, so that confirms it.

I'm wondering if it has something to do with the menus on the DVD itself. The DVDs I notice it the most on are my Seinfeld DVDs (all of them). I remember seeing it happen on some Soprano's DVDs too, but I popped one in the other day and it didn't do it. I'll have to go thru them and find out which ones do it and which ones don't.

I contacted customerservice@lge.com and they asked that I try to determine if the problem is with the unit itself or the connections. I think I'll write back and tell them about this message thread and show them that I'm not the only one with this problem. I'm going to collect a list of DVDs that get the fuzzy menus too. Hopefully that will help LG figure out what the problem may be.

CactusJak - Interesting. I'm still curious to know if people with non-RPTVs see this effect...or if people using DVI for RPTVs see it. I suppose that it might be a component->RPTV issue. I know that it doesn't do it on my self-made dvds, so I was originally wondering if it was to do with copy-protection. However, I have other commercial disks that don't it, so I don't think that's the case (although encryption methods may vary I suppose). The weird thing for me is that it locks in momentarily first, which would seem to indicate that it can display them properly. Could the deinterlacer on the RPTV be distorting it? I'll have to try playing with my settings on my RPTV a bit.

What kind (brand name) of RPTV do you have? I was also originally wondering if it was an issue with Hitachi RPTVs, but since Mongose's Mits does it, I guess not.

My only concern with LG's possible response, is that it might be something fixable by a firmware fix, but this might also disable our upconversion over component (although the region-free hack does not seem to affect this). I'd rather have some fuzzy menus than no upconversion.

I will try to see which DVDs do this as well, and I will send you the list. I might not have time for a few days, so for now I can only recall 5th Element SB, although I know that there are others.

Keep us posted on any progress/insight.

Hello all!

I'm really sorry for jumping in late in the game here...

After hearing all the good things about the LGDVB418, I picked one up only to discover that it won't upconvert thru component.

So now I just ordered a Zen DVB318 for just that purpose but absolutely forgot to check if it can play Dual Layer discs like the 418 can. A call to Zenith/LG resulted in a resounding "maybe, maybe not." It seems Dual Layers were never tested on the 318.

Can anyone confirm or deny?

Thanks so much,
Steve New York

FWIW: I run my DVB318 into an Infocus SP4805 front projector and my Fifth Element Ultimate Edition SB menus look fine.

This is been probably posted already, but just received a Harmony remote and it can control upconversion (among other things). I'll have to to try that DVD MP3 , thanks Scott.

Hey Guys,

I'm REALLY thinking of getting this player as I LOVE the PAL upconverting to 1080 concept. I am a bit wary of burning the software and attempting the firmware upgrade though. Could anyone who has done it possibly send me a CD(s) with the component 1080 fix and the Region Free ones?
I'll compensate via paypal or M.O. if requested. I would REALLY appreciate it!
Thanx! D

So, anyone tried Dual Layer DVDs on this unit?

Hey Guys, Have you heard of Wholesaleconnection.com? They SAY they are an authorized seller. Anybody know? I emailed Zenith and am awaiting a reply. Thanx! D

edit... Zenith responded and they are an authorized reseller. :)
So, when a signal is output at 1080i, would the new Mits 1080P sets out this summer than show it as 1080P? Should look pretty good then, yes?
Also, if ANYONE can help me with the CDs for firmware, I'd be grateful. My girlfriend's computer is VERY wonky and I don't want to risk screwing up my new player somehow.

Thanx! D

Originally posted by landsmarra
So, anyone tried Dual Layer DVDs on this unit?

There's a very brief pause as it switches layers (like many players), but it has reliably tracked all my dual-layer DVDs.

I tried to search this problem without much success. Apologize if the problem has been addressed or solved.

I loaded the CD and flash the firmware to the old one. I am able to view 1080i via component output. However, I noticed the whited dotted line on top of the screen in the middle. Someone else has addressed it but nobody could really solve the problem. I also noticed the movie is shifted a little to the left side, so there is a little gray space vertically on the right of the screen. I am projecting the image with my Dell 2300MP.

I tried to turn off the machine without changing the upconversion and the problem still exists. Any thoughts or solutions? Do you guys experience the same problem or is it just my machine? 480p is ok without problem.

Thanks for the help.

yada,
Look at this thread:
LINK (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=535190)

The next to last post mentions the same issue you have. Not sure why you andhe are getting the or why what he did to fix it did fix it and left component upconversion intact.

Let us know how you make out.

Best,
jeff

Can you have both the s-video and component jacks used at the same time? I know component and DVI together are a no no but I want to run the component to my X1 and the s-video to my TV. Then I just select the output on the 318 and it should send the appropriate signal to the appropriate device, correct?

Originally posted by Itsdon
Can you have both the s-video and component jacks used at the same time? I know component and DVI together are a no no but I want to run the component to my X1 and the s-video to my TV. Then I just select the output on the 318 and it should send the appropriate signal to the appropriate device, correct?

Yes, both the svideo and component can be used at the same time.

I ordered the 318 from Best Buy and have downloaded the firmware. I will apply it once I recieve my unit. I am curious as to the function of the upscaling. Is this something that will have to be reset everytime I watch a new DVD or a memorized setting? Also, is the the best (affordable) option for 1080i. I would assume so because of the Faroujda chip. I just have reservations about buying a model that is discontinued in many places. I wonder if buying a newer player with HDMI would also give as good an image.

Thanks

Originally posted by palooka23

...I am curious as to the function of the upscaling. Is this something that will have to be reset everytime I watch a new DVD or a memorized setting?

Also, is the the best (affordable) option for 1080i. I would assume so because of the Faroujda chip.


The Sigma-based upscaling players give better picture quality than the Faroudja based players. Problem is the Sigma-based players are manufactured by low-level manufacturers in China and have suffered quality issues.

For affordability, the 318 and players like the Momitsu V-880 cannot be beat.

The main attraction to the 318 and the Bravo & Momitsu players has been the ability to upscale to 720p or 1080i on Non-HDCP enabled monitors and projectors.

If you have an HDMI or HDCP-compatible DVI monitor, then there will be great future products for you.

For non-HDCP or people that need upscaling over component, the pickings are slim and not likely to improve.

Get 'em while you can.

Does anyone have any suggestions for dealing with light side-spill? I have an X1 (4800 firmware) and am running the 318 in 1080i through component to it. After kicking up the colors the picture is stunning. With the exception of the little white bar (which is infrequent) and the light spill issue I'm thrilled with this toy. I have the both units set to 16:9 and the picture zoomed to fill the screen (Da-Lite 84") to the black side bars. The light however spills over to the wall behind the screen. This was not an issue when I was runing my old DVD player at 480i using the InFocus special Component/S-Video adapter.

Is there some special setting on the X1 that I need to mess with? Thanks.

Just to see if I am the only one this has happened to or not:
Yesterday I rec'd my pristine copy of national treasure and put it into my DVB 318, after it recognizes the disc, instant lockup, every time I tried it, this is the FIRST disc this has ever happened to on this player, I rent weekly from netflix too. Anyone else?
PS-I am running the original firmware by choice.

<<<<<------EDITED:----->>>>>
Ok, this is now CONFIRMED, I bought a new sealed copy today and it does the exact same thing, locks up the player SOLID
Again, this is the Zenith DVB 318 ( and its LG sister) not sure what others but the Zenith is a definate no go!

BTW-I noticed this is a Disney flick...any chance this is due to some new type of copy protection?

Take 'em back for refunds.

Thanks for the warning. I'll save my money. They won't be getting my $20

Best way to send a message to Disney (or whomever) is to not buy into this kind of crap. Let them eat the unsold copies.

National Treasure was not that good a movie anyway.

I should mention, however, that people that experienced trouble loading certain disks were sometimes successful by turning off the "autoplay" feature.

wblynch: I should mention, however, that people that experienced trouble loading certain disks were sometimes successful by turning off the "autoplay" feature.

THANKS, that allows it to work now, thanks again wblynch!

I have one of the earliest Zenith 318 players which I bought from the distributor even before it went on sale to the general public. I am mentioning this because I dont have the player in front of me to cite the date of manufacture ... suffice to say its was sometime in the last quarter of 2003 (or maybe early 2004).

I recently purchased a infocus 4805 PJ ... and acquired the dvi-m1 cable. I have the firmware disc ready with the fix for the DVI white crush.

However, I have heard horror stories of lip-sync problems ... dotted white lines etc. Can someone who has a player from around that time relate their experience with this firmware ?

I am weary about changing the firmware ... and then having to change back to an LG version ... which appears to have its own set of problems.

BTW ... if the DVI fix works ... I have no plans to go back to the component outs. This will be one shot deal ... i.e if and when I hear from others who have had no problems after the firmware update.

Thank you.

Max

I have one of the earliest Zenith 318 players which I bought from the distributor even before it went on sale to the general public. I am mentioning this because I dont have the player in front of me to cite the date of manufacture ... suffice to say its was sometime in the last quarter of 2003 (or maybe early 2004).

I recently purchased a infocus 4805 PJ ... and acquired the dvi-m1 cable. I have the firmware disc ready with the fix for the DVI white crush.

However, I have heard horror stories of lip-sync problems ... dotted white lines etc. Can someone who has a player from around that time relate their experience with this firmware ?

I am weary about changing the firmware ... and then having to change back to an LG version ... which appears to have its own set of problems.

BTW ... if the DVI fix works ... I have no plans to go back to the component outs. This will be one shot deal ... i.e if and when I hear from others who have had no problems after the firmware update.

Thank you.

Max

umenon:
You might check the 4805 mega - thread
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=5585236#post5585236

Ok, I got the Zenith today and did the component 1080i flash and the region free upgrade. All I can say is "wow..." I am floored. Pic. is stunning. I might have to rewatch ALL my dvds now! :)

Okay I've been playing around with my 318 player for a couple weeks now.

I was having some problems with the picture and like a shadow that would run across the screen. (hard to explain but it bothered me to no end) I had used the componet cable that had come with the unit.

I replaced the cable with a nicer cable. Things have really looked up from there. I also had noticed that in my rush hooking it up the first time I had wound the cable around the power cord (maybe where I was getting interference?)

ReAVIA'd my setup and I must say I like what I am seeing now. Colors are very nice and the picture looks all most perfect at TIMES. I really think with this player you see what you get from the DVD itself. Close up shots never looked better. But when it looks bad, IT LOOKS BAD!

Me and my 10 year old son sat down to watch Star Wars (1) the other day, I had not told him that I put in the new player. (he watches the star wars movies alot by the way) We got about 15 min. into the movie and he turns to me and asks: Dad is this a new movie? So I asked what did he mean? He said it just looked brand new cause it looked so much better.. heh..

I'm pretty happy with the unit now...


Mongoose

Hi guys,

Just my 2 cents for whoever is interested. I just had my TV ISF'd and the tech measured the output from the Zenith and it seems that the DVD color decoder is not too far off (a little cool on green, tiny bit warm on red, etc.) but the output in terms of brightness/contrast runs hot. I've got to turn the brightness down when I watch a DVD (since all my sources run through a single 1080i input). All in all, a nice picture for $150 until HD/Blu-Ray/WhateverCombo comes out.

FYI, if anyone needs a good ISF guy and is in OH, WV, or VA, Chad Billheimer (HDTVbyChadB.com) does an excellent job and is very reasonable. He spent nearly 9 hours on my Mits and I am quite pleased. (I didn't get any discounts; I'm not related to him, etc. for this endorsement.)

Cheers,
Jim

1080i flash and the region free upgrade
So to clarify, the original firmware is the one everyone is still running, as it causes the lease amount of problems, correct? :confused:
(what us the best firmware version?)

And tell me more about the region free hack...?:cool:

Originally posted by todbnla
Just to see if I am the only one this has happened to or not:
Yesterday I rec'd my pristine copy of national treasure and put it into my DVB 318, after it recognizes the disc, instant lockup, every time I tried it, this is the FIRST disc this has ever happened to on this player, I rent weekly from netflix too. Anyone else?
PS-I am running the original firmware by choice.

<<<<<------EDITED:----->>>>>
Ok, this is now CONFIRMED, I bought a new sealed copy today and it does the exact same thing, locks up the player SOLID
Again, this is the Zenith DVB 318 ( and its LG sister) not sure what others but the Zenith is a definate no go!

BTW-I noticed this is a Disney flick...any chance this is due to some new type of copy protection?

Just watched the National Treasure DVD and it worked fine in my 318 which came with original firmware allowing upconverts.

I am thinking of getting another upconverting DVD player. If I get another 318 with the current firmware and use the DVI connected to an HDMi capable TV, upconversion works fine w/out a firmware update correct?

If later I want to also connect another HD source to my TV via HDMi I can't use the DVI on the 318 I believe since there is no pass thru, and have to reflash to allow component upconverts and use the component in.

hardwired - i believe the DVB318 doesn't work with DVI->HDMI conversion, but I haven't tried myself. I think it's mentioned earlier in this thread.

There are TONS of upconverting DVD players that upconvert only via DVI/HDMI that would serve your purposes. I'd get a native HDMI one. The Panasonic S97 and Sony 975 seem to be popular options. Double check those model numbers though....

Well, I've had a couple of days so here are my impressions...
First, like many others say, if you watch a well authored DVD like The Incredibles, Nemo, Gladiator etc... the pic. is amazing. If you watch a bad looking DVD, oy! EE looks absolutely awful. Print imperfections, mosquito noise etc.. seem GREATLY magnified.
The lack of pillarboxing is INCREDIBLY annoying.
The black levels seem weird. I've had to REALLY futz with my Gamma as well as my Contrast and Brightness. My JVC had user pic. controls for all these plus color, sharpness etc... so I guess I just liked having the increased control of the pic. coming out of the DVD player. Also, although the sharpness and detail on the Zenith is pretty phenomenal, my JVC has 12 bit Video processing and the color and the black level seem a bit better and the gradations slightly more subtle and natural than with the 10 bit on the zenith.
Overall, I'm pleased and like I said, with a good looking DVD, the pic. is pretty incredible but MAN, to have to switch to 480P (which don't look that good...) to watch any of my 4x3 stuff, (and I have ALOT) is very annoying.

Anyways, anybody have any idea about the blacks issue? I have a spot tweaked Mits CRT Diamond.

Thanx! D

Is the picture through component better than through the HDMI connection? I have an HDMI television, but I still rolled back the firmware. I plan to use component because of all the raves, but am wondering if I were to use HDMI whether the pciture would be just as good or better. Zenith even supplies a pretty heavy duty HDMI cable as part of the package. BTW, my manufacture date is Feb 2005.

Thanks

Actually, I only have componet. 2001 build set.

:)d

me again...
now I have had 3 DVDs with audio sync issues so far. Moulin Rouge DTS, (which I'd known about) and ROCKY DTS track on the new disc and an episode of Buffy S5 PAL version. My amp is a Pioneer 1014 and I've watched Buffy and Rocky with my JVC player with this amp with no problems. Anyone know what may be up? Overall, I'm pretty happy. But if the sync happens on alot of titles, I just can't deal with it. And to reitterate, the variation in black levels seem really crushed compared to my JVC.For ex. in The Warriors which is mostly night footage, I saw Many more levels of black and much more detail in the blacks. And again, the color just seems less varied too. With solid colors, it knocks it out of the park, but faces etc.. ESPECIALLY when moving just look inferior.

Just my 2 cents....

Thanx! d

Originally posted by todbnla
Just to see if I am the only one this has happened to or not:
Yesterday I rec'd my pristine copy of national treasure and put it into my DVB 318, after it recognizes the disc, instant lockup, every time I tried it, this is the FIRST disc this has ever happened to on this player, I rent weekly from netflix too. Anyone else?
PS-I am running the original firmware by choice.

<<<<<------EDITED:----->>>>>
Ok, this is now CONFIRMED, I bought a new sealed copy today and it does the exact same thing, locks up the player SOLID
Again, this is the Zenith DVB 318 ( and its LG sister) not sure what others but the Zenith is a definate no go!

BTW-I noticed this is a Disney flick...any chance this is due to some new type of copy protection?

I bought this and have only watched the first 10 minutes but it worked perfectly on the same gear. The symptoms you describe plague some discs and you have to turn off the auto-play option in the player's menu to work around.

As for Disney having a new copy protection, I don't think so. I'm actually boycotting or returning any Sony movies that have that on there. I pay for my films and in Canada not only is it a constitutional right to make a backup, we also pay extra taxes that go back to the creators as some warped form of compensation for making backups.

Discs seem to scratch more easily and be more susceptible to defects now than ever before, so I'm not about to purchase discs that infringe my rights and freedoms. Bye bye Sony, maybe some day you'll learn that sticking it to your loyal customer in a futile attempt to stop some other guy is just bad business.

Originally posted by Mongose101

I was having some problems with the picture and like a shadow that would run across the screen. (hard to explain but it bothered me to no end) I had used the componet cable that had come with the unit.

I replaced the cable with a nicer cable. Things have really looked up from there. I also had noticed that in my rush hooking it up the first time I had wound the cable around the power cord (maybe where I was getting interference?)



Absolutely, the symptoms you describe are indicative of bad/loose cable, radio or electrical interference. I believe with component cables, good connections, good shielding, and consistency between the 3 cables are the big factors.

Notice I'm not saying you have to buy this pricey brand or that, but have well fitted ends and as close to a 75 ohm spec cable as possible. One of the 3 cables pulled away from the group can cause grief. Intertwining one or all if them with a power cord sounds pretty much like a recipe for getting bad signal quality.

Actually, I only have componet. 2001 build set.

Dave, what do you mean by this? All of these units have a DVI port, right? Are you saying that 2001 builds don't have the port or that it is known not to work? And if it's the latter, care to elaborate?

I can't get my LG DV7832NXC (DVB318) to work with DVI->HDMI ever since I bought it but I would still like to find the "official" word from LG or Zenith on this.

I had an LG rep mention that using Belkin DVI-HDMI cables was the only way to get this to work, but I'm skeptical as I've tried so many different cables and adapters and LG support ideas that I'm going to forget about using DVI-HDMI with this unit... but still it'd be nice to have an official statement.

There is still the DVI on the zenith. I am using component as my Mits 55908 has no DVI. Hooked my JVC back up. NO sync problem with the PAL R2 Buffy episode. Weird. I got the pic. looking pretty good after doing MAJOR tweaks in my Mits HD input service menu. Still worrying about the sync. Need to watch more PAL discs...

Peace...

Originally posted by Dave Mack
There is still the DVI on the zenith. I am using component as my Mits 55908 has no DVI. Hooked my JVC back up. NO sync problem with the PAL R2 Buffy episode. Weird. I got the pic. looking pretty good after doing MAJOR tweaks in my Mits HD input service menu. Still worrying about the sync. Need to watch more PAL discs...

Peace...
How does the unit look on your set? I also have a Mitsu w no DVI (& HDMI) and am considering this and the AVeL LinkPlayer2. I'm really only interested in playing Region 1 dvds, so have you tested those out? Just want to see if it's worth it on the Mitsu sets.

I have a 318 on a mits 73903 (first gen HD ready) with only rgbhv inputs (no dvi, hdmi, or standard component). The scaler in this set is really bad. Bypassing it using the 318 feeding the set 1080i looks wonderful (of course I'm using a key digital transcoder + vga break-out cable) . No macroblocking at all and I've been watching lots of DVD titles.

The Avel brings other features to the table, but if you don't care about those and just want upconversion via component, this players really good. I've had mine for nearly 1.5 years with no regrets.

Best,
jeff

Plan to install new DVB318 to Sanyo Z2 today [from Best Buy]. I will use DVI connection available after Bravo D1 died. If picture is not as good as D1 or if there
are any problems , I'll report the results. And I'll return it.

Looks pretty good. I miss the Gamma control on my JVC though, I could get more variance and detail in the blacks. Also, the 12 bit Video converter had better color on the JVC than the 10 bit on this. For detail though, this is pretty remarkable and the Faroudja makes my Video based titles look great. (The JVC's and malata's achilles heel.) Overall, I'm pretty happy. And I solved sync issue. When my amp is in DPLII with that epsiode, loses sync. Regular Pro-logic? Sync. is fine. Weird, my JVC player was in sync with same material in DPLII. BUT MAN, annoying handling of 4x3 material. My set locks in FULL with 1080i. So, I have to switch to 480P and the Y-delay is VERY noticeable. My JVC had adjustmenets for that.

:) d

Zenith DVB318 with Sanyo Z2

Picture seems comparable to Bravo D1 with DVI [great picture]. I wish I could A/B compare the two ,though, for a more definitive opinion. At 1080i there is a white dotted line near the center top of screen. At 720p the line is gone. Both resolutions with DVI crop or shift picture to the left. On a 100'' screen , there is a 2-3'' vertical band without image on the right side.
If the crop issue could be corrected with the Zenith DVB318 ,I think the picture at 720p is OK. I chose to try the DVB318 first because BB has a 30 day return w/out restocking fee. Next choice will be either the Bravo D2 or Oppo.

Originally posted by BILL BIFF
Zenith DVB318 with Sanyo Z2

Picture seems comparable to Bravo D1 with DVI [great picture]. I wish I could A/B compare the two ,though, for a more definitive opinion. At 1080i there is a white dotted line near the center top of screen. At 720p the line is gone. Both resolutions with DVI crop or shift picture to the left. On a 100'' screen , there is a 2-3'' vertical band without image on the right side.
If the crop issue could be corrected with the Zenith DVB318 ,I think the picture at 720p is OK. I chose to try the DVB318 first because BB has a 30 day return w/out restocking fee. Next choice will be either the Bravo D2 or Oppo.

The white dotted line is intermittent and usually goes away by powing off/on the player. I believe it crops up when you switch resolutions without power cycling. The picture shift is a known issue an likely not one to be addressed with any further firmware updates (which surely would kill the upscale over component feature - again). I just compensate by using the horizontal picture adjustment on my X1. Strange that you find 720p to be OK, most users here feel that 1080i is the only good resolution. I tried 720p on my setup and was less than thrilled. Must be a Z2 thing.

OK, I had another sync. issue. Eric Clapton DVD. Could it be the Zenith or the amp. They are both new. The issue corrected itself after I hit stop. weird. Amp is pioneer 1014. Maybe it just doesn't like the zenith?

I've had the sync problem off and on with all my DVDs. I know my Samsung is partially to blame for this, but I also suspect the Zenith since a quick scan back fixes it for a few seconds. I've tried both component and DVI firmware with the same results. :(

Agh! This might become annoying, I fear. Hanging onto my JVC got now...

:) d

I'm running my 318 into a mits 73903 (keydigital transcoder -> vga break-out cable). I've not had any sync issues. Before that I ran the 318 into a tosh 50hx81 also with no sync issues.

I know this doesn't help, but it seems to be display dependent, or you have an issue with your particular unit? I might suggest a call to CSR and see what they say or if you can do a swap with your e-/retailer.

Best,
jeff

I'm wondering if it;s possibly the amp. I;ve had my Mits 55908 for 3 and a 1/2 years and have NEVER had a problem.

I think I'm going to order one of these today, I've had all I can take from my crappy Yamaha player. What do you guys think of wholesaleconnection ($169 including shipping) or on openbox item from TechforLess (from pricegrabber for $154 including shipping). Anybody had experience dealing with either one of these?

I've not heard of either of those places but Amazon has them in stock for $159 shipped.

Just ordered the 318 from Amazon. Should have it next week. I'll downgrade the firmware once I get it and let ya'll know what I think.

slideways,
I'd try it before you flash firmware. Some have reported that their units upconverted OOTB even though they were "newer" units. Test it before you flash it.

don't forget to recalibrate your display with VE, DVE, Avia or equivalent, before judging the pq.

Best,
jeff

I should be getting my 318 tomorrow. I'll test it first, but I don't know how to change the firmware.

What CD format do I use, ISO 9660? Bin/que, maybe? I have no idea.

Also what does the file have to be named? The one I downloaded is called "lv700i1.bin"

do I have to rename it "lgromout.bin"?

and do I just put it in and turn it on or do I have to press something?

Originally posted by lilmarvin4064
I should be getting my 318 tomorrow. I'll test it first, but I don't know how to change the firmware.

What CD format do I use, ISO 9660? Bin/que, maybe? I have no idea.

Also what does the file have to be named? The one I downloaded is called "lv700i1.bin"

do I have to rename it "lgromout.bin"?

and do I just put it in and turn it on or do I have to press something?

It's easy! Rename the lv700i1.bin file lgromout.bin, burn that onto a regular old CD, finalize the disc (some folks say this is unneccesary), turn on the player and pop in the CD! The player will ask if you want to upgrade (downgrade) just follow the prompts. Enjoy!

This issue has been reported before in this thread, but there doesn't seem to be any consensus on the cause. Just to clarify, the issue is this:

Suppose you are watching a 2.35:1 and zoom out the black bars. After an apparent chapter change on the DVD, the black bars reappear (that is, the picture is unzoomed again).

Some people have said this might happen during a title change, but not a chapter change. I have only seen this happen on 2 of my DVDs (Tomorrow Never Dies and The World Is Not Enough) so it certainly doesn't seem to be a common problem.

Has anyone else experienced this with these DVDs in particular? If so, what conclusion did you come to about this issue (Zenith's problem or a problem with these particular DVDs)?

I was play'n G.I. Jane last night, and I got the sound out of sync issue... I had hit the fastfoward dial (100x) to start the movie and after I stoped it was quit noticeable.. heh... Was like watching an old Jackie Chan movie... I hit the dial to Rewind for fraction of a sec and it went away.. (This movie sure looks bad) I am running my DVD player to a ONKYO HT-R500... This is the first movie that I have had this problem with.. But it also seems easy enough to fix..


Mongoose

Just received my player last night with Feb 2005 date, quickly tested some DVDs (2 Fast 2 Furious and Ladder 49) that I know looked good using my older Sony and so far no reported problems with audio synch. Will continue to test other Dvds and report back. The player looks really good via component going to my H/K Avr and out to my Hitachi ED Plasma @ 1080I and 720P, all though I did notice a white line about 2-3 inches wide at the very top of the screen in the upper left hand corner when using 1080i. Im assuming others have noticed this as well?

I thought the old firmware was needed to upconvert via component?

Jon

I just received this unit today from amazon. It is a oct 2004 build and upconverts to 1080i through component out of the box without needing to "downgrade" the firmware. It came with a separate yellow piece of paper in the box that also said that it upconverts to 1080i through component.

I hooked it up to my toshiba 65h80 which has component, but no dvi and pressed the upconvert button on the zenith dvd player with the tray empty. 720p resulted in a black screen. 1080i resulted in a much improved intro screen. At 480p the word "dvd" is blocky, but at 1080i, it is smooth.

I also suggest like previous posts, to test for upconversion to 1080i through component before downgrading the firmware since it might work out of the box.

I just received this unit today from amazon. It is a oct 2004 build and upconverts to 1080i through component out of the box without needing to "downgrade" the firmware. It came with a separate yellow piece of paper in the box that also said that it upconverts to 1080i through component.

I hooked it up to my toshiba 65h80 which has component, but no dvi and pressed the upconvert button on the zenith dvd player with the tray empty. 720p resulted in a black screen. 1080i resulted in a much improved intro screen. At 480p the word "dvd" is blocky, but at 1080i, it is smooth.

I also suggest like previous posts, to test for upconversion to 1080i through component before downgrading the firmware since it might work out of the box.

I don't believe any October build models will upconvert protected DVDs over component. If all you want to do is improve the intro screen, then yes it will do that just fine. If you want to actually upscale commercial DVDs, then you might want to check that out because I can tell you that my October build DVD318 would not.

Chris

Yeah, my previous post was premature. As soon as I started trying to watch dvds, the player would switch back to 480p. I downgraded to the firmware on the first page of this thread and now everything works.

I've read all the threads over the course of a week while I waited for my DVB318 to arrive. It finally came today and I brought it home hooked it up and loaded my firmware. The screen now says LG when I power it on.

Now using the film 2 fast 2 furious when I put it in and start watching it then hit pause and upconvert to 720 it's out of sync then just goes blue. If i pause that and upconvert to 1080 i see the screen again out of sync and it stays there. I can hear the volume and sorta see the film but it's like those out of sync waves going up and down.
I've got my dvd set to 16;9. I don't know what to do

I even switched component cables thinking that may by the issue. I have my green,blue and red all hooked up fine and tight.

I found my problem. It seems my television components can only do 480i or 480p. My DTV however does 480i,480p & 1080i.

I only have 1 DTV converter so is there any device I can get that will allow me to hook up another dtv device? perhaps a splitter?

Ahh recieved this beautiful player today (well actually Monday but I was out of town so I got it in my hands today). I hooked it up and it also seems to upconvert out of the box. I had an October build as well with the same yellow paper.

Thanks to everybody for recommending this player. I'll watch some movies on it sometime in the near future, not this weekend but soon.

You guys got me puzzled, mine was an October 05 unit with the yellow paper and it didn't upconvert until I downgraded the firmware.

Jon

A splitter won't work. You need some sort of switch. You can either use a hard mechanical one like you see at radio shack for audio (l+r) and video so that it has 3 connections. Or you can spend more money and get one that has high bandwidth (forget exactly how much is considered good). I went the cheap route. works well, just requires a manual toggle between a or b depending on if I'm watching DTV or upconverted DVD.

Best,
jeff
I found my problem. It seems my television components can only do 480i or 480p. My DTV however does 480i,480p & 1080i.

I only have 1 DTV converter so is there any device I can get that will allow me to hook up another dtv device? perhaps a splitter?

You guys got me puzzled, mine was an October 05 unit with the yellow paper and it didn't upconvert until I downgraded the firmware.

Jon

Yes, me too, including the yellow paper. Mine actually worked for the first couple of disks that I put in to test it, but all bets were off when I tried to play a movie all the way through.

Maybe a couple slipped through with the old firmware? Seems unlikely though.

All this recent talk got me wondering if my player REALLY was upconverting. If it was not upconverting would it put out a picture on the 1080i setting? I ask because after looking at a couple of movies a little closer I don't notice a huge difference (still better than my old player though).

All this recent talk got me wondering if my player REALLY was upconverting. If it was not upconverting would it put out a picture on the 1080i setting? I ask because after looking at a couple of movies a little closer I don't notice a huge difference (still better than my old player though).

My set autodetects the signal coming through and shows that the player is putting out 1080i when I have it set at 1080i, so I have no doubt.

As far as noticing a difference, it largely depends on how much better the player's scaler is than your tv's scaler, and a bit on the dvd you're playing. Remember, an upscaling player cannot make something out of nothing, so in theory a given tv set could do just as good a job.

If it does a better job than your old player, then you've gained something. If you want to gain more, you'll probably have to go to a much more expensive dvd player.

Ok whats the deal... If I buy a DVD player I want it to work...

Do I buy the 318 or is there a better player for the cash?

This seems to be nice and I plan on using the DVI... Do I worrie about the upscaling?

Fudtone,

If you have a TV or projector that will accept HD signals (720P or 1080i) then you would benefit from an upscaling DVD player. However, the Zenith is best known for its ability to upscale via component, not DVI. I believe the Panny DVD-S97 does a better job of upconverting via DVI.

Jon

Thanks for the reply!

I was wondering about that. The panny you listed... does it have DVI? I only see mention of the HDMI out.

Also I plan running it to my Optoma H31 via DVI (upscaling to best PQ)

I am also looking at the Oppo but can not find it at the low low price of this unit.

I believe your right, check out the upconverting DVD thread for an overview of the most popular players.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=423609

Jon

Sweet... nice link I had not seen that yet. Thank you.

I downloaded the file for making my Zenith DVB318 region free but I'm not sure how to burn it to CD in ISO mode. I have Easy CD Creator version 5, RecordNow DX, and DeepBurner software. Can anyone tell me the steps to correctly burn the RMTM0000 folder (with subfolder Scarlet & its file kpjc19_1.dvd) to CD using any of these programs? Thanks!!!

OK,

Based on this thread has concluded the following:

1. for my Compoment-in Pioneer RPTV that supports 480p and 1080i, this player looks to be the "best" option for doing 1080i over component.

2. As I understand it, assuming I'm receiving a relatively "new" unit, the firmware currently sold with the player will NOT provide true 1080i over component.

3. So, to "downgrade" to the 1080i support I'm after I'll need to change the firmware. As I understand it, it's a simple as popping in a dvd with the correctly burned firmware file.

4. So if my assumptions/observations above are correct, can some walk me through the procedure of changing the firmware , including details on burning the DVD correctly? Please explain like I"m a 6 year old :-) Example:

a. Where and what file do I download
b. What dvd foramat should I use? RW- or RW+?
c. What is the most fail-safe way to record the firmware file to dvd?
i. location, file type, burn software, etc.


Thanks!

bradesp

Bradesp,

I just received my player yesterday and changed the firmware. It was as simple as others have said. There's a link in this thread, I don't remember where, but the file name is LV700IL.bin. Do a search for that. Anyway, once you download, simply rename it to LGROMOUT.bin. I burned mine on a CD... you DO NOT need to use a DVD.

I'm using this with a CRT projector with a 100" screen. The image is as good as the hype around this player. I did find that there was a bit of a green push to the image, but once adjusted I'm totally satisfied.

Jay

bradesp,

Here is the link for the firmware.

http://www.keohi.com/keohihdtv/experttips/michaeltlv/lg_dv7832_firmware.html

Just download file (component version) to harddrive, rename to "LGROMOUT.bin" and burn to cd (do not burn to a DVD). Nothing else special about the burn, you don't even have to finalize the disc. Now put the disc in your player and follow the screen instructions. Takes 15 to 30 seconds.

Jon

Awesome! Thanks guys! Burning a CD is worlds easier.

Now, how do I know for certain that the new firmware has been uploaded to the DVD player? Is there a menu that provides a selection that indicates which firmware you're running?

Also, is there a setup disk (avia, etc.) that can be used to validate that my tv is indeed receiving a 1080i signal?

Thanks!

bradesp

Awesome! Thanks guys! Burning a CD is worlds easier.

Now, how do I know for certain that the new firmware has been uploaded to the DVD player? Is there a menu that provides a selection that indicates which firmware you're running?

bradesp

Your Zenith will magically become an LG...... :eek:

You'll see the LG logo instead of the Zenith logo on the main background screen.

Also, is there a setup disk (avia, etc.) that can be used to validate that my tv is indeed receiving a 1080i signal?

Thanks!

bradesp

Many HDTVs will display the signal it's receiving - my Sharp LCD does that automatically when changing inputs.

My AE700 projector has a menu that will display the signal it's receiving, for example.

On my Hitachi, pressing info tells me the type of signal I'm receiving. I have a LG so up converting over component works on mine. The DVI is used by my HDTV SAT receiver.

Anybody ever open the lgromout.bin file with notepad just so see what it looks like? Try searching for the word "Arkansas"... Mmmm, disturbing.

-Mark

Anybody ever open the lgromout.bin file with notepad just so see what it looks like? Try searching for the word "Arkansas"... Mmmm, disturbing.
-MarkHmmm, me thinks a juvenile programmer had way too much time on his hands.

Great... I've been thinking of buying this unit and when I finally go to make the purchase Amazon is now sold out! I shudder at the thought of spending $20 more and buying it from BB... The Zenith DVB-318 isn't being discontinued is it? Amazon can still get more right? The site says they will be in stock soon but I really want it by next week so I can calibrate everything before the wife gets back so I can justify the money spent.

[EDIT] ARGH!! Even BB now has them back ordered... Any other big online stores carry this player?

i just bought one today as a matter of fact, from here:

http://store.cousinsvideo.com/zen-dvb318.html?Goo

$159.95 shipped! :)

i should have it by friday, can't wait!

I have had my unit since Dec 2004 (july 2004 build date), the only time I have experienced really noticable audio sync is from bad DVD conversion from Avi files. I have mine raised (spacers between) from any other devices. I also have everything connected through a surge and ground fault protected power bar. Not sure if this helps or if I got lucky. Also when using back up DVDs I use DVD+r burned at 2.4x.

OK I got a question about this player that was not covered in the 10,000+ replies I have read. I understand that this player uses the SD color matrix as opposed to the HD color matrix, and as a result some people see a green push to the picture. My HDTV is a PT-43LC14 Panasonic rear projection LCD and in the advanced picture menu (not the service menu) there is a grayed out option that says SD matrix. It is grayed out for my cable and my old dvd player and each input can can be changed in individual menus. My guess is when I hook up my new Zenith DVB-318 the SD color matrix will not be grayed out when I try to upscale to 720p or 1080i so that I can choose either.

Now here is my question... If I can indeed choose SD or HD matrix and I choose SD matrix for this player, will I be able to avoid the hideous green push problems?

mvv: I take it you are looking at the strings from TVGuardian Algorithm and Dictionary
In linux:
$ strings lgromout.bin | grep -B20 TVG

what you'll see ifyou use the wrong color matrix is a slight green depression, opposite of push. It is not hideous, really. You might be right that you'll be able to select HD of SD. choose SD.

Best,
jeff

Thank you Mark, I just figured it was some punk with nothing better to do than be unprofessional. I do recall some kind of parental lock thing in the menus but never gave it a second look.
It doesn't make a real difference what it's in there for but the kind of juvenile antics that would have it there for any other reason would just bother me. I'm glad you were able to clear that up.

Guys,

Help,

Just received my new DVB318 and have tried repeatedly to downgrade the firmware to allow 1080i over component and each time I put the burned dvd or cd in the tray the display (after some time, say 10 seconds) displays "NO DISC".

What am I doing wrong? BTW, I flipped the disc upside down so I've tried on both sides, just in case.

I've used Nero and BurnCD (a freeware program) to burn a data DVD and CD with the LGROMOUT.bin file and each time the same result. When I put the burned CD in my computer I can see the LGROMOUT.bin file in the root (no other folders or files on the CD)

I'm obviously doing something blatantly wrong.

All sogo's appreciated!!! I want my 1080i over component!

bradesp

OK, saw a post at the download site indicating that I should NOT use the the .BIN file extension. So now I have burned CDR dics with file names lgromout.bin and lgromout to no avial. Oh and btw, I also burned the original file name as downloaded (that's how I started) and that didn't work either.

It's got to be something simple, help!

bradesp

Are you finalizing the CD? I didn't and had no problems. If you are, don't and vice versa. Try it all! Oh, BTW you have to do a CD not a DVD. Good luck!

I am having a small glitch that is becoming very annoying - can anyone help me with this?

About once every three or four times I turn on the unit, it freezes at the "Hello" disply on the LCD. There isnt always even a disc inside (AutoPlay is turned off). Each time this happens the only way to reset is to move all of my gear and my TV, unplug the unit and then plug it back in.

The 318 is connected to a Toshiba RPTV using component cables.

Anyone figure out how to address this problem?

Thanks.

Thinking of selling mine. The audio sync. issue is really getting annoying. Like 1 out of every 4 discs. And it can go in and out of sync. DURING a dvd too. My JVC never had a problem. Maybe my Pioneer 1014 doesn't like it???

My problem is that I'm not sure what's causing the audio sync problem, the 318 or my Samsung DLP. Samsung's replaced my HLN for an HLP which is supposed to "fix" the problem. On the HLN when I was getting delay, it was intermittent. If the Zenith is also intermittent and the Samsung fix didn't work, then I'm not sure where my delay is coming from.

Dave Mack:
I have a 318 feeding my Infocus 4805 and my Pio 1014, I have never had a sync issue. All have the original firmwares (318 & 4805)

My 318 feeds a mits 73903 (and had been feeding a tosh 50hx81) and an onkyo 575x. Not delays ever in more than 1.5 years.

jeff

I have the same problem (I think) with the 318. The video is behind the audio, but the picture is better than my 480P DVD player. I am sure this has been answered but are there any other up-converting DVD players over component and does the sync issue exist over the DVI on the 318?

I'm using the 318 through DVI, with audio going through a Pioneer 1015. The only time I've noticed audio sync problems is when I've stopped and started a disc repeatedly using pause rather than stop.

When this happens (and it is rare) I've found hitting stop and then start clears it up for the remainder of the movie.

TV is a Sony GWIII and the picture is awsome with this combination.

Aydu, I've also just hit pause and then the audio has caught up correctly.

Like my Zenith. HOWEVER. The microblocking is driving me crazy. In the very dark scenes you can see the shifting ghostly blocks on the darkened portions of the screen. I am using this player with my Sony HS51. Great bright picture. Severe microblocking on black or dark and some purplish tints too.

Any way to adjust something to lessen this?? When I have guests over, I cringe during the dark scenes and look nervously at them to see if they are distracted by it.

Can I hang on until an HD DVD players comes out? Or is there something I can do?

Thanks!

ric, i think you're stuck with this problem, it plagues the faroudja chipset that this dvd player uses...as far as i know, all of the upconverting players that use this chip suffer from the same problem...

:(

i just purchased the 318 for upscaling through component. like some, I received a yellow sheet of paper in the box indicating that upconversion through component and as a result I hooked it up without "downgrading" the firmware. I had some DVDs upconvert (LOTR, Last Samurai), but with disappointment others would not (Star Wars Trilogy) where the player would automatically switch to 480p.

So I was wondering if I "downgraded" the firmware, would it allow my player to play most(hopefully all) copyrighted DVDs?

Thanks for your time!

Yes. I recently purchased the 318 too, changed the firmware, and it has played every DVD I've tried via component at 1080i. I also changed the firmware to allow the player to be region free.

i just purchased the 318 for upscaling through component. like some, I received a yellow sheet of paper in the box indicating that upconversion through component and as a result I hooked it up without "downgrading" the firmware. I had some DVDs upconvert (LOTR, Last Samurai), but with disappointment others would not (Star Wars Trilogy) where the player would automatically switch to 480p.

So I was wondering if I "downgraded" the firmware, would it allow my player to play most(hopefully all) copyrighted DVDs?

Thanks for your time!

Yes, it seems that yellow piece of paper really only applies to unprotected content and only some "slightly" protected content. Most people received the player with that piece of paper. Just download the firmware and it'll work fine for all your disks.

If anyone would mail me a Region Free CD, I'll PayPal them funds to compensate. I'm a complete noob when it comes to computers, and my burner is hooped... Send me a PM with the price and PayPal address.

Please help me.

Trent

JayF and roreman, thanks for your help. I loaded the firmware with no problems and now, more DVDs upconvert. I guess now, the only question is whether or not the 1080i picture looks better than the 480p. It's hard to tell. Anyone know of a good DVD to play that will show the upconversion capabilities of the 318? I realize that not all DVDs will upconvert well.
Thanks.

Try The Fifth Element SB Edition - you'll be impressed!

My list of movies that you see a significant difference are:
Fifth Element (Superbit)
Star Wars Episode II
Daredevil
Lost In Space (who knew!!!)
Mystery Men, (I'd have to say the picture is just incredible)
Most Superbit titles.

You can try the Reference DVD thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=372989) over in the Movies Forum for great looking DVDs... It's a bigger list and you've probably got a few of those DVDs.

Also, please help regarding:

If anyone would mail me a Region Free CD, I'll PayPal them funds to compensate. I'm a complete noob when it comes to computers, and my burner is hooped... Send me a PM with the price and PayPal address.

Please help me.

Trent

How do you know when the DVB318 is upconverting? I just got mine and succesfully downgraded the firmware first thing. I used the link from the first post...

Now when I throw in dvds it doesent appear that anything is changing when I push upconvert. The image stays exactly the same and their is no information comming from my DVB318 telling me of resolution changes.

I am running a 17inch Magnavox HDTV through component.

Thanks!

You have to push the STOP button first, then hit the upconvert button. You should see the next higher resolution on the display everytime you hit it. Good luck.

Oh man I was getting freaked out over it! I did figure it out and thanks for your help.

My downgrade worked flawlessly and I am watching movies at 1080 on my little HD. :D

Now I am going to rent some superbit titles!

sorry if this was discussed somewhere .. but the thread is so long!

was the dvb318 ever reviewed on secrets? what did it score?

was the dvb318 ever reviewed on secrets? what did it score?http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/cgi-bin/shootout.cgi?function=search&articles=118

sucky!
amazon price went up $20- in the middle of their "Everything Electonics on Sale" sale.
Gochnauers doesn't carry it anymore, and Best Buy is the same price as amazon now.
anyone want to pm me where I might find a better price?
thanks

I just pulled the trigger on one at savinglots.com

sorry if this was discussed somewhere .. but the thread is so long!

was the dvb318 ever reviewed on secrets? what did it score?

The review is somewhat misleading. They don't present scores or results on the best output that almost everyone who buys it uses it for. Component out @ 1080i. Otherwise it would score even higher.

kw..............

All I can tell you is that I use it 3-5 times per week for DVD movies @ the 1080i setting, and have had no problems now in a year of using it.

My wife, neighbors, and visitors all feel the imagery is outstanding.

The best $149 bucks I spent in a long time (other than maybe that last trip to Vegas :eek: ). :D

I use my 318 several times a week at 1080i using the DVI hookup. Best per dollar upgrade I have ever made.

I have compared the DVI and component outputs of the 318 and in my setup the DVI presents a much sharper image with better color resolution.

Either way, the 318 is a big jump in PQ over other DVD players I have used and seen.