That Omnimount stand from CC worked well for me. I have VERY heavy Polk center channel speaker. I used 2 of those stands to be on the safe side, but for most centers 1 should be fine.

While I agree the 36" is best experience you can get in both 4:3 and 16:9, I don't think it's very popular. Most consumers are sold on widescreen and don't understand that they're losing out on normal content.

If the 36" was more popular, it would not be selling for less than the 34". :)

[RalphArch]Got one at the Outlet Store today and am a little surprised with the direct QAM tuning.

Having an MDP-130 I know I get the local DTV broadcast channels in unencrypted QAM (about 5 HD channels- and a number of weather channels) I also get around 50 clear ADS channels and quite a few audio only. These are all 256QAM

When I do a cable digital scan I get a couple hundred digitals but in the "available" field or whatever it is called I only get the 50 or so ADS and quite a few audio channels but I don't get the other broadcast channels (including all my freely available HD channels which I know aren't encrypted.

Does SONY somehow restrict the HD so you have to use a cable card to get them versus tuning directly off the cable? In other words why doesn't the tuner find the 1080i and 720p unencrypted HD QAM channels?

Sort of answering myself in case others have a similar situation and are wondering about direct QAM tuning versus cable card

I got my cable card yesterday - and even though the cable company told me not to and that I would only get the unencrypted HD channels - sure enough the cable card allows access to all encrypted service which I am paying for (all digital channels and premium channels)

That was the good news and I now have HD via QAM and not just digital - and at no extra cost since my company does not charge a fee for the cable card.

Also the guide in cable card mode is significantly better than the unpopulated guide info using direct QAM tuner - plus navigation is easier


The bad news - my KD-36Xs955 is no longer capable of tuning all the digital channels.

That leaves me without access to the 80 or 90 analog to digital signals that I was getting directly with the QAM tuner - I am restricted to what the cable company designates as available channles which do not currently include the ADS channels even though they are there. Since they look considerable better and sound better than the analog somewhat of a disappointment - but I suppose as the cable company transitions to ADS formally the cable card will recognize these as opposed to the crappy analogs (which I also cannot send audio to my receiver with the digital audio output - which I could with the ADS channels and all the HD channels)

Question from those in the know before I open my $50 DVI to HDMI cable in case it would be better to take it back

I am possibly interested in using my KD-36Xs955 as a monitor for my HTPC. But I am not really interested in using it at 1080i wide screen mode (component or HDMI)

I realize that is feasible as I sent a component out of MyHD card and it displays fine at 1920*1080i, but it also automatically sized to 16:9 and letterbox

I want a 4:3 full resolution monitor mode. Is this feasible through the HDMI using a DVI output in RGB?

Any settings that are recommended or should I not even try it and get the money back on the cable?

One reason for asking is my disappointment with the set's resolution in the zoom mode. When I zoomed my other 36 inch HD display (RCA MM36100) it retained full horizontal HD resolution in zoom mode - so I was effectively getting a cut off on the sides HD show on the 36 inch display and it looked spectacular. The SONY looks like it doesn't scale well in zoom so its better just leaving it in 16:9 Full mode

But if I could get full resolution computer monitor I could once again zoom HD with MyHD card and get an even better full screen HD display.

Well, finally pulling the trigger. Heading up to the Sony Outlet in NY to track down one of these quickly vanishing TVs. Delaware Outlet is out of them and no idea when (or if) they are getting more in. Actually by google maps it was 3+ hours to get to DE and just under 3 hours for NY. So no problem with NY (short of the sales tax that is).

I'll be transporting this beast in my Hyundai Santa Fe. No one has been able to give me dimensions of the TV in the box, so I dont know how much squeezing there is going to be. Is there any problem with transporting TV on its screen or back? I'm assuming yes (damage of screen and such) but just wanted to check with you very knowledgable folks any way.

Picked up the Tech Craft HXS3436 from Circuit City today - by chance it dropped $50 over night! It looks to be best bang for the buck - I'll get pics when everything is plugged in. Also picked up the Omnimount center channel speaker shelf - I may put the cable tuner up there too - we'll see how it offends the sensibilities.

Thanks all for your insights. I look forward to complaining soon about HDTV-related issues. I know where to come fo help!

Do not transport the tv on it's back or screen. You most likely will need to transport it back w/o the box so you can check the dimensions of the set itself. Sony Outlet should be able to help you do that. Save enough of the cushions to protect the screen. The front is heaviest, so if it is going to tip, it's toward that direction.

LDegrelle,

I'm looking into getting this tv soon from the NY outlet. If you could get back to us regarding their availability & price (if it is allowed) as well as the 34xbr960 and 34xs955, I would appreciate it.

Thanks,
Chris

When it was in the box, it barely fit thro the door to my house, which is 35" wide.

hey Chris,

As of 11am this morning they had 6 in stock. $809. 5 year service plan is 89.99 (which is weird since SonyStyle online only offers 4 years policies for Refurbs).

Its very odd, the first time I called Sony Outlet in DE they wouldnt tell me the price (I didnt know the policy). After that one time, everyone told me everything. Weird.

I know you can put a 24 hour hold on a TV, and if you tell them you are going to buy the service plan they are VERY helpful (I'm sure they get a nice incentive for that - I did when I sold back in my Circuit City and CompUSA days after college).

I'll check on their other models while I am there.

Thanks mapson for the packing info - I figurd as much, but was just curious. I mayhave some spare sofa cushions I'll bring along with my moving blankets to make sure this beast is well padded.

Replacing my 8 year old 27" Zenith TV - cant believe it took this long to buy a good TV. I guess two toddlers will do that to your budget.

When it was in the box, it barely fit thro the door to my house, which is 35" wide.

Yeah, the width part isnt my chief concern - its the height. You woudl think SOMEONE would give you measurements of the item in the box as well. I've called all kinds of places, and no one can do anything. "It's back in the warehouse."

Well, how about you mosey back there and find out the measurements? Sheesh. Oh well, my rants will soon turn to PQ and beam convergence and zooming and all the other stuf I've been missing out on - wheeee!

The box is about 1ft taller than the TV height.

After reading this great thread and the recommendations of 'Kentech' I decided to cancel my order for the xbr960 which was actually on the truck and substitute it with this one. With the amount I saved over the xbr960 I got an extended 4 yr in-home warranty. Once that beast is in the living room I don't want to have to move it myself.
The main reason for my second thoughts was that I watch mostly 4:3 through Directv. I'm sure I'll watch more HDTV in the future and since I only give up 1" of real estate, for me the choice was easy. The letterboxing with HDTV doesn't bother me but the smaller 4:3 picture (9'-10' viewing distance) and poor stretch modes definitely do. It also has the SFP tube and the extra features on the XBR line would never be used.

Yeah, the only downside of the 4:3 tube is when hd channels broadcast 4:3 content, they still set the 16:9 flag so you get bars on all 4 sides.

hey Chris,

As of 11am this morning they had 6 in stock. $809. 5 year service plan is 89.99 (which is weird since SonyStyle online only offers 4 years policies for Refurbs).

Its very odd, the first time I called Sony Outlet in DE they wouldnt tell me the price (I didnt know the policy). After that one time, everyone told me everything. Weird.

I know you can put a 24 hour hold on a TV, and if you tell them you are going to buy the service plan they are VERY helpful (I'm sure they get a nice incentive for that - I did when I sold back in my Circuit City and CompUSA days after college).

I'll check on their other models while I am there.

Thanks mapson for the packing info - I figurd as much, but was just curious. I mayhave some spare sofa cushions I'll bring along with my moving blankets to make sure this beast is well padded.

Replacing my 8 year old 27" Zenith TV - cant believe it took this long to buy a good TV. I guess two toddlers will do that to your budget.

sent you a PM... please reply!

Is that much of a big deal for you or do you notice? I was under impression that some people got around that somehow. Isnt that the postage stamp effect or something?

And how much smaller is it?

Yeah, the only downside of the 4:3 tube is when hd channels broadcast 4:3 content, they still set the 16:9 flag so you get bars on all 4 sides.

Yeah, the only downside of the 4:3 tube is when hd channels broadcast 4:3 content, they still set the 16:9 flag so you get bars on all 4 sides.

All you have to do is switch from Video 6 (component) to Video 1 (S-Video)...takes about a millisecond to do it. Just watch all your 4:3 SD Channels on Video 1, and watch all your HD Broadcasts on Video 6.

All you have to do is switch from Video 6 (component) to Video 1 (S-Video)...takes about a millisecond to do it. Just watch all your 4:3 SD Channels on Video 1, and watch all your HD Broadcasts on Video 6.

For the specific situation cited (4:3 material in an HD broadcast) I would just use the screen button on the remote to switch from full to zoom. I am a little slower and this would take a second or two. Since input is from cable card for me no video switching is needed.

Maybe your method is a better solution than mine for crappy SD analog - but I would need to add another tuner into the mix to get the s-video and I don't want to clutter up with cables or boxes.

I'm using the SA 8300HD PVR/STB from Brighthouse Cable. The STB has its own remote, but I use my Sony RM-AV3000 Remote Commander w/touchscreen to switch inputs. I never zoom, and prefer the original 4:3 fullscreen for analog & digital SD. BTW, to get analog SD I use a splitter into the ANT input. This way, I can record two programs at once while watching a 3rd channel at the same time. Believe it or not this happens occasionally. For instance, last night at 10:00pm, there was "Numb3ers", "Battlestar Gallactaca",and "Real Time w/Bill Maher" all showing at once. Damn ratings wars!!

LDegrelle,

Thanks for the reply. Keep us posted when you get more info. By the way, are you heading to the Riverhead Outlet in NY or the one upstate? Thanks again.

Chris

So . . . freaking . . . heavy. ON minus side - wife doesnt like the Tech Craft stand. She wants more of a 'furniture' piece.

On plus side - TV set is awesome! I can definitely see some pixelization (or whatver) on SD content, but I can tune it later and I am so used to 8 year old TV technology that it really doesnt affect me.

Using Comcast Digital Cable and the HD content is AWESOME! Need to get some cables and hook up my DVD player (only have S video now). Running component into TV from cable box. One component will go to DVD player (Panny CP72) and other will go to Xbox.

Guy at store assured me no problem with putting TV on its front (ugh) but the box is huge and it JUST fit in the Santa Fe that way. I figure I have the warranty so if any problem - I'm covered. I didnt like it but I knew it would be hassle to unpack it all ( as I was proven when I got home).

Store was in Central Valley NY. They had 5 more 36XS955's. They also have the following models on the floor:

30xbr910 - $1050
34xbr910 - $1300
34xs955 - $900

Dont know quantities but that shouldnt be hard to find - store number is 845-928-5112.

Good luck all - will provide pics when I get chance. Thanks again for all the advice.

I have the 36XS955, Comcast digital cable (Seattle area), and a cable card.

I use the show/hide channel menu to make flipping through the channels quicker. This is a really important feature for me.

The problem is that the channels that I set to 'hide' reappear in short order (within a day or two). And, it's not always all of them at once, as I flip through the channels some reappear initially, then eventually, all of them.

I've talked to Sony support as well as the local authorized service center. Neither has any idea what might cause this, or how to remedy the problem.

I should mention that I've gone through the reintialization procedure with no change in behavior.

Any ideas as to what's going on and how to remedy the problem?

I've got a cable card too (Cox Phoenix), but I haven't noticed that behavior. What I have noticed is that whenever a new channel is added, it appears without me having to unhide it. What may be happening is that Comcast is removing and adding the channels occasionally, for some unknown technical reason. When the channel reappears, it gets un-hidden. Try talking to Comcast, if you haven't already.

Comcast is coming out tomorrow to change the cable card to a different model tomorrow. According to them, that might help.

Also, someone at another forum referred me to a Sony service bulletin about a SW upgrade for the TV that might be required. I'll know after the cable card is changed. I hope it's not required, as the service call will cost almost 300 for the upgrade (no warranty).

Channels disappearing and reappearing as 'shown' as the card is updated (as you suggest) might be the cause also. We shall see. I'll post back when I know more. If that's the case, then switching to a cable box might be the alternative.

How do you know what software version you're running? Is there a list of what changes?

the service call will cost almost 300 for the upgrade (no warranty).

(snip)

If that's the case, then switching to a cable box might be the alternative.
$300 will pay for a lot of months of cable box rental...

$300 will pay for a lot of months of cable box rental...

Man, you got that right. Brighthouse Cable charges me $6 per month for a twin HD tuner SA-8300HD PVR/STB. While not perfect, it's a pretty good box, and after using it for the past 12 months, I couldn't live w/o its PVR features. There will probably be another upgrade in 18 months.

I have a 36xs955 & Adelphia Cable out of Pittsburgh w/ CableCard.
Everything looks great when it's working right. (even SD looks good)
However, about once a week I lose about half the channels.
I then hit CC reset and get them back.
Is this a CC problem or something else?

Couldnt say myself. Dont know anyone using Cabel Cards. I am using Comcast in Montgomery County area in PA with Set top box (DVR). Man, does that HD recording suck up a lot of space!

Other than the blue input on the cable box for the component cable being loose (keeps dropping out and then I just get lots of green - waiting for HDMI to DVI cable from Monoprice) the picture has been stellar. I still have to find a cheap way to get the AVIA DVD - but no complaints yet. Havent had chance to really peruse DVD on it yet.

Couldnt say myself. Dont know anyone using Cabel Cards. I am using Comcast in Montgomery County area in PA with Set top box (DVR). Man, does that HD recording suck up a lot of space!

Other than the blue input on the cable box for the component cable being loose (keeps dropping out and then I just get lots of green - waiting for HDMI to DVI cable from Monoprice) the picture has been stellar. I still have to find a cheap way to get the AVIA DVD - but no complaints yet. Havent had chance to really peruse DVD on it yet.

If you have the SA-8300HD STB w/SARA operating system (rather than PASSPORT OS), you can probably add an external HD. People are doing this regularly, and you can read about it on another AVS Forum. The 8300 comes w/160g HD, and many others have added a 300g or even 500g HD to their box for those HDTV recordings.

If you have the SA-8300HD STB w/SARA operating system (rather than PASSPORT OS), you can probably add an external HD. People are doing this regularly, and you can read about it on another AVS Forum. The 8300 comes w/160g HD, and many others have added a 300g or even 500g HD to their box for those HDTV recordings.


Sadly its some older Motorola box (DCT6412). Its not even the newest one, as the one they gave me first wouldnt work so the tech came out and only had the previous model (DVI instead of HDMI). From what I know, Comcast does a great job of crippling the outputs on these boxes too.

How do you know what software version you're running? Is there a list of what changes?
Sony knows by the serial/date of manufacture.
I don't know of any list of changes.

Well, Sony said to change the cablecard first. So I did that - no dice - the TV still loses channel memory (as I suspected it would). Now I'm going back to Sony to try and get the software upgrade for free, as this is a defect in the product, not something that broke out of warranty.

Wish me luck.

Hey guys - it's been a loooong time since I've been in this thread. Since originally deciding to buy a 36XS955 back in early 05, I since went with a Toshiba MT700 PJ. But, now it's time to try to upgrade the living room setup, so here I am..back again.

I'm wondering if anyone has seen any better prices for the 36XS955 than what is listed on amazon.com right now. Seems like a decent deal to me. Any thoughts?

Edit: Obviously please tread lightly here, don't want to bust the rules (hope I'm not already) PM me if you would like. Thanks! :)

Refurbs from factory outlets are best prices right now. That or knowing someone who works at Sony.

Also for me the main concern was total cost. $1000 on Amazon vs $809 at Sony Outlet.

Shipping from Amazon runs $200 and up. Outlet cost me gas, tolls ($2.25) and food/beer for my helper.

Outlet had the 5 year in-home warranty for $90. Amazon I have to go and contact Sony and pay more for the waranty if I want it.

I am super pleased with the TV and I have to say the sound is pretty impressive - I mean, it has a built in subwoofer! I have a 5.1 (old Sherwood RVD-7090R with equally old HK TS1 speakers) that does a great job too. But if I had to use just the TV speakers, I wouldnt be too disappointed. Until I got a great movie running in 5.1 that is, but overall pretty nice.

Jump on this guy before its gone.

The SONY stand was also a good deal for me at the outlet. Since I use a cable card its a very clean look with only a receiver and a network HD/DVD player on the stand (Could be tight if you threw a lot more components into the mix)

I've read through 18 pages of this forum ahd I haven't seen anyone else with this problem so here goes:

I just upgraded my DirecTv to HDTV and it is connected to my Sony 36XS955 with component video cables. When i hooked up my DVD player also with component video cables I suddenly had green hues in the top right and bottom right corners of the screen!! As soon as I unplugged my DVD cables it went away. Does anyone have any clue what might cause this? Cheap cables? I bought monster cables but the cables used by DirecTv came with the box so i am sure that they are the cheapest ones available. Thanks.

Sadly its some older Motorola box (DCT6412). Its not even the newest one, as the one they gave me first wouldnt work so the tech came out and only had the previous model (DVI instead of HDMI). From what I know, Comcast does a great job of crippling the outputs on these boxes too.

I'd give Comcast a call and order their latest HD STB. Heck, you're paying them for this service and deserve the best. When I moved into my new home 2 years ago, I had Brighthouse send their Tech Guys out to upgrade every cable, terminal and junction box as well as tweak the entire system w/my brand new HD STB. Took pretty much most of an afternoon, but in the end I was satisfied w/both SD & HD. All this was FREE, or rather came w/my service w/no extra charge. No way I'd settle for a mediocre STB as this directly affects the PQ in a big way.

Sadly its some older Motorola box (DCT6412). Its not even the newest one, as the one they gave me first wouldnt work so the tech came out and only had the previous model (DVI instead of HDMI). From what I know, Comcast does a great job of crippling the outputs on these boxes too.
Older doesn't necessarily mean worse. I have read a whole host of posts complaining about the Phase 3 6412 box, specifically with the HDMI output. I am sticking with the DVI 6412 until they fix the Phase 3 box.

Also for me the main concern was total cost. $1000 on Amazon vs $809 at Sony Outlet.

Shipping from Amazon runs $200 and up. Outlet cost me gas, tolls ($2.25) and food/beer for my helper.

Outlet had the 5 year in-home warranty for $90. Amazon I have to go and contact Sony and pay more for the waranty if I want it.

I am super pleased with the TV and I have to say the sound is pretty impressive - I mean, it has a built in subwoofer! I have a 5.1 (old Sherwood RVD-7090R with equally old HK TS1 speakers) that does a great job too. But if I had to use just the TV speakers, I wouldnt be too disappointed. Until I got a great movie running in 5.1 that is, but overall pretty nice.

Jump on this guy before its gone.

Thanks for the posts guys (and the pms). Unfortunately, the nearest Sony outlets are just 8 hours away for me. Once i factor in gas, food, and lodging, the difference between a used (w/warranty) one at the outlet vs the amazon price is under $200. I'm not sure if that's enough of a difference to make me want to hop into the truck this weekend :)

Either way, I'm still deciding if I can even fit the TV in my living room. It may actually not work, so I may have to go with an LCD, which I really don't want to do. I may just wait and make the decision if I see the 36's going away anytime soon (we don't have a timeline on that do we?) Thanks again btw.

So . . . freaking . . . heavy. ON minus side - wife doesnt like the Tech Craft stand. She wants more of a 'furniture' piece.

I got this one

http://common.csnstores.com/common/products/BU/BU1014_l.jpg

It's a Bush Furniture "Edgewood"

Hold 240lbs (2lbs more than the 238lb XS955) but I figure what the heck they underrate a little, and I also used wood glue to assemble it even though the instructions don't say to everywhere. Anywhere one piece met another, big line of elmers wood glue (the yellow stuff), wipe off the excess, tighten and let dry.

Plus when the 36xs955 goes away, it will work fine for a SED/plasma/LCD/whatever and is not a single purpose stand.

W

Thanks for the posts guys (and the pms). Unfortunately, the nearest Sony outlets are just 8 hours away for me. Once i factor in gas, food, and lodging, the difference between a used (w/warranty) one at the outlet vs the amazon price is under $200. I'm not sure if that's enough of a difference to make me want to hop into the truck this weekend :)

Either way, I'm still deciding if I can even fit the TV in my living room. It may actually not work, so I may have to go with an LCD, which I really don't want to do. I may just wait and make the decision if I see the 36's going away anytime soon (we don't have a timeline on that do we?) Thanks again btw.


Just bought xs955 from amazon about a week ago, just waiting for it to be delivered.

Has anyone had success in connecting there 36xs955 to there computer, if so what video card are you using and what type of connection. I would like to make a video juke box of DVD movies to watch on it.

Thanks

Has anyone had success in connecting there 36xs955 to there computer, if so what video card are you using and what type of connection. I would like to make a video juke box of DVD movies to watch on it.

Thanks

I had asked before in this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7238773&&#post7238773)

No one answered me so I broke out the HDMI cable and tried it out. Worked fine as I expected at HDTV resolutions like 1920*1080i and 1270*720p (just get a video card that has HDTV output resolutions - I use a Geforce FX 5200 ultra but I also know that the Radeon 9800 pro has HDTV resolutions as do many other graphics cards


I tried all the other resolutions trying to find a decent one for the 4:3 full monitor display. Basically I believe SONY cheaped out and did not provide decent drivers for this monitor.

Its PNP on digital as a SONY monitor and I imagine its just a generic driver with widescreen only good resolution.

If you look over in Powerstrip forums they have the specific timings for using that but again I am pretty sure its just widescreen.

Maybe that's all you want but I wanted more

Somethings by 480 p work in full screen but I wasn't really interested in those resolutions

So I opened my HDMI to DVI cable needlessly. Maybe this post will save others some expense (just use component out of your video card and set resolution to an HD resolution and you won't need an expensive DVI to HDMI cable)

Only get it if you will be satisfied with a widescreen desktop (Useless - or at least extremely sub-optimal for things like photos, video from a digital camcorder displayed by an HTPC etc.

Has anyone had success in connecting there 36xs955 to there computer, if so what video card are you using and what type of connection. I would like to make a video juke box of DVD movies to watch on it.

Thanks

I have mine connected to my pc. I have a ATI AIW 800XT using component to the tv. I use 800x600 (tv says 720p on remote display button) for my computer resolution when surfing the net,etc and it looks really nice and clear after a few adjustments when sitting back on my couch 7ft away. It fills the entire screen nicely..just a tad of underscan at top and bottom but you cant even notice it so it looks really freaking nice surfing the net on a 36inch screen from my couch. Text clear, Images clear..everything.

Now just to clarifiy a few things, i do have to use zoom on my 36XS955 to fit the screen but its good. Infact just so no one thinks im a noob with what looks good and what dont look good when using diffrent video screens for pc's..my backup pc has a 21inch viewsonic graphic series that i use for photoshop editing,etc and my 36XS955 does a nice job of displaying the internet,phooshop editing,etc. Of course not as crisp as my viewsonic monitor but its comparable from my viewing distance.

ALso i do use powerstrip for switching resolutions ..PC games i switch the resolution to 1152x648 and movie playback i use 1920x1080i. I watched some HD movies through my computer onto my 36XS955 and its incredible. I thought upscaled dvd's looked nice and they do..but nothing can touch true high definition movies on this tv set especially when ran thru a pc onto the tv.

Just so you know, you may have to try diffrent drivers for your video card..i noticed some older drivers dont want to work quite right with ati cards and this tv but newer drivers should be fine.

Im really happy with my pc connected to this tv set. It really makes this tv that much greater as a media center as well. I have a pretty nice surround sound system connected to my 36XS955 so listening to music from my computer, watching streaming documentary's off the net, surfing the net,etc on the tv,etc is really freaking nice. Plus xbox 360 connected to it along with a various pc games played on it..im really getting my money's worth out of this tv set.

Im just so glad i went with the 36XS955 instead of the 34XS955 or 34XBR.. i get best of both worlds with widescreen and standard screen aspects. I couldnt of used this tv set with my pc as far as surfing the net on the smaller 34inch sets. Plus i still watch a lot of SD content and i still get that 33inch widescreen on top of it all....

INow just to clarifiy a few things, i do have to use zoom on my 36XS955 to fit the screen but its good. Infact just so no one thinks im a noob with what looks good and what dont look

...

Interesting thought - I did not try zoom when I was set up throught DVI-HDMI - maybe someone else has tried this?

Interesting thought - I did not try zoom when I was set up throught DVI-HDMI - maybe someone else has tried this?

If you have your videocard set up right... 800x600 on this tv via a pc will have the postage stamp effect (black borders all around the image..left,right, top, bottom...if you hit zoom on your remote control..the image will fit the entire screen nicely and it dont look distorted or anything. I guess its something you must do in order to get a nice 800x600 pc display looking right with this particular tv set. I know 800x600 isnt the hottest resolution around to use but if you want to kick back and surf the net while relaxing back in your couch..it works well and everything is clear and crisp from 6-7ft away for me.

For the new guys wanting to use this tv for monitor and have a ati card:

In your drivers properties, in the ati display options..make sure you got the following checkmarked..the top row i have all resolutions checkmarked and the part i have circled depending on what driver you use you might need the black circle checkmarked..i dont know why but some driver versions for ati cards need the black circle checkmarked in order to get your display working correctly with this tv. The particular ati drivers im using right now (5.12's) dont require any of the bottom boxes checkmarked for some reason.

After you checkmark those boxes, you will need to switch to say 1920x1080i then back to 800x600 for it to go in effect (or reboot pc), atleast i have to do this everytime and i've probally done this a zillion times on this tv and computer like after i reformat my pc or something and go to reinstall my drivers,etc

After all that, i then use Powerstrip to fine tune placement of my display, i resize it a tad to fine tune the fit of the screen on the tv.

http://www.moe.hakarpsdata.com/driver.jpg

Even if 800x600 somehow works I imagine from your screen shot above the SONY may be defaulting to one of the 480p (maybe its 720x480p) modes that the monitor natively supports with the default driver. If this is the case I had checked and this (around 720*480 p) worked in 4:3 mode directly with the set as one of the default resolutons out of DVI

What is pretty obvious from looking at things like the great clarity on Memory Stick photos that the set is quite capable of something like 1400*1080 in 4:3 mode- its just a shame we don't have a windows driver available that will do that.

I suppose if I had a choice between the 800x600 4:3 and 1920*1080i widescreen or 1280*720p widescreen I would take one of the latter ones - they did work and were really sharp and clear. Would benefit from large fonts and icon choices.

I'm using a NVidia 6600-based card through component cables (as my PC is almost 50 feet from my TV). Hooking it up was pretty simple -- plug in (included) adapter cable, switch monitor to Clone Monitor + HDTV, set resolution to 1080i. Looks great -- now my problem is convincing my wife that the cables running from my office to the TV are normal...

Thanks for all the information, I have a AMD 939 motherboard lying around, I was hoping to build alittle HTPC with one of those cases that looks more like a recvr and put it in the stand that came with the XS955.

I watched some HD movies through my computer onto my 36XS955 and its incredible. I thought upscaled dvd's looked nice and they do..but nothing can touch true high definition movies on this tv set especially when ran thru a pc onto the tv.


Could you elaborate how you actually watch a true HD movie on a computer? Do you
download it (huge file I would guess) and play it through some kind of a WinMedia
player? Is it streamed off the net via broadband?

Could you elaborate how you actually watch a true HD movie on a computer? Do you
download it (huge file I would guess) and play it through some kind of a WinMedia
player? Is it streamed off the net via broadband?


I don't know about Moegames - but its pretty easy. (As far as source you can get HD movies by recording OTA broadcasts or by firewire from a set top box that has the source channel set to copy freely - today most premium cable cos set to copy once). Several methods I use:

MyHD MDP 130 card - (output set to 1920*1080i)

TheaterTek 2 - video card output set to 1920*1080i using DVI to HDMI cable

Nerovision Showtime

I also normally use an Avel LP2 DVD/network player to stream HD movies stored on various computers to the SONY (LP2 set to 1080i D4 output) - much simpler than an HTPC

I have a digital channel scan question on my 36XS955. When it scans cable TV for digital
channels, it finds several unencrypted (I have no cable card) chans in the 82.x, 83.x, 89.x,
116.x and 120.x range (mostly HD locals & music). However, I later found out that there were
several "missed" chans in the 114.x and 115.x range, which I can manually tune to. Why
would the channel scan not scan the 114/115 range for digital chans, but pick up all the
rest. I'm getting over 320 digital chans "found", with 67 "shown" (unencrypted). It takes
about 45 minutes to do the entire scan.

Could you elaborate how you actually watch a true HD movie on a computer? Do you
download it (huge file I would guess) and play it through some kind of a WinMedia
player? Is it streamed off the net via broadband?

Yes, i have downloaded a few movies..sorry if thats not suppose to be said around here but i was too eager to see a HD movie ran off my pc onto my 36XS. And yes they are very large (usually .TS) files. Infact Lord of the Rings HD movies run around 25gb in size (per movie). The picture quality is..well you really gotta see it to believe it...its unlike anything else.

So was Gladiator (18gb in size)..very very impressive, i just couldnt believe the image quality. Some if not all of these movies were recorded from firewire or other methods off a DirectTV or HD Cable airing i believe because some of the movies obviously have the ABC, HBO HD Channel watermark on the lower right corner.

Though i have bought some Windows Media HD movies as well...they look very impressive too. I run those from my pc of course onto my 36XS. My computer is connected from my ATI All In Wonder videocard component output onto my Sony 36XS.

I use BSPlayer Pro and TheaterTek as my movie playback software along with FDDshow and Dscaler5 as added software components.

I have also checked out some X264/Mkv encoded high def movies ran off my pc onto my 36XS..they are compressed down to 4gb to 8gb in size. Take lord of the rings 25gb HD movies..i watched the same encoded with x264 codec ..which was shrunk down to around 8gb in size and honestly..i was hard pressed in telling the diffrence from the 25gb version to the 8gb version. That x264 is a nice codec..i think SkyHD channel is gonna start using that for their movie programs aired on their station soon..thats how good it is.

I dont think streaming high def off the net is a good option right now as you would need a very speedy broadband connection to do it. I have a 5mbit connection..thats not even close to good enough to actually stream a high quality HD movie from the net.

Folks,

This may have been covered, but:

How good is the picture quality of the KD-36XS955 when displaying SDTV, as opposed to HDTV.

I've looking for a set that also displays SDTV flawlessly.

I've noticed that the XBR 960 still has some PQ issues with SDTV, as opposed to it's flawless display of HDTV pcitures.

(We'll call it a TV for bridging the gap while we wait for all HD content.)

Any information would be really appricated!

Gerhard

my 36xs955 displays better ota sd picture than my old 32" sd toshiba did. the picture gets worse with the lower channels, but that's likely due to my reception problem and not the fault of the tv. with a good signal, the pq is almost as good as the 4:3 hdtv on zoom mode.

from some of the post i read, the 4:3 pq seems to be related to how the source is broadcast/shot, since most of the newer shows seems to have better pq than the older shows even on a channel that i can get better signal on.

Gerhard

I don't know how you plan to get your signal - but I see you are moving to germantown. If you plan to use COMCAST Montgomery county they are doing ADS on the analog channels. - The picture on the analogs looks great directly off the cable - and by and large looks crappy off the Motorola STB due to the processing in that tuner.

You can only get the ADS currently by NOT using a cable card and tuning the ADS channels via the QAM tuner (pretty soon the ADS should be available via a digital STB I would imagine - maybe they will encrypt but last I checked all ADS are in the clear) The higher bit rate ADS look great (like 720x480i - these are the popular channels such as discovery,local broadcast etc. Most of the other channels are lower bit rate and don't look as good.

I went to cable card since it was free and I could get rid of a STB but still get the premium channels (You could use a STB and input to TV via the HDMI or component and still get the ADS if you wanted to by splitting the cable - but this won't work with Cable Card) . - the analogs look just great out of the SONY at 4x3 36 inch - obviously not quite as good as a 1080i DTV channel zoomed since its still 480i but the SONY does a great job displaying the signal (something about doubling the horizontal and vertical resolution with scaling

If you are you are still confused you could stop by sometime to see my KD 36xs955

Hello all. I just purchased this TV at CC for $199.99 without remote but with full manufactures warranty. I think I did good. Purchased without viewing the screen. This is my first HDTV. I am looking for a checklist for a newbie that would help me properly set up this bad boy. I have searched for one but could not locate it. Also, who is the best source for obtaining a remote?? Thank You

Wow, $199 seems incredibly low.

Picked up the 36xs955 this evening and they did have the remote. No kidding, I paid $199.99. Now hopefully everything works and when I call Sony tomorrow they will tell me I can purchase extended coverage for an open box TV. I could use some direction on set up-what type of cable to buy etc. I have Dish Network SD for now.

Picked up the 36xs955 this evening and they did have the remote. No kidding, I paid $199.99. Now hopefully everything works and when I call Sony tomorrow they will tell me I can purchase extended coverage for an open box TV. I could use some direction on set up-what type of cable to buy etc. I have Dish Network SD for now.

Is CC Circuit City, or CostCo?

Sorry, Circuit City

Sorry, Circuit City

Heh. I checked out the local Circuit City... but all of the decent TVs are gone now.

For $199.00 you KNOW I'd just buy that TV even if I had no place to put it!!

I did see a guy on Craigs List looking to sell it for $800.00, used for a year... it appears it's to big for his house and he's looking for something more reasonable.

Gerhard

I'm in a bit of a dilemma. My 27" Proscan died on me this week after only 7 yrs. of ownership. I'm considering replacing it with the 36XS-955 that I saw here locally for $845.00+ tax. Should I go this route with the dying breed or go ahead and make the move to the somewhat controversial DLP? I'm not thrilled that my CRT only lasted 7 years, as it was expensive at the time and I figured I would get more life than that, but also fear the DLP technology may not be much better in terms of dependability and may lack in performance. I'm obviously not well versed on TV technology, or the pro's and con's, which is why I'm seeking some guidance. :confused:

Also, I'm concerned with the safety aspect of using a non-Sony TV stand with the 36XS.(2 kids under the age of 3) Any suggestions on stands that wil hold a receiver, cable box, TiVo, etc. and support the TV safely? The Sony stand doesn't have enough room for components.

Thanks in advance!

My 36xs955 is gorgeous. Do not regret it one bit. Picked mine up for about same price you are looking at, except at Sony Outlet.

I knew that I needed a decent stand that has doors to cover the components because I too have two children - one is 9 months the other just turned 3 years.

You have two choices for storing the TV - go with a simple stand or go with an entertainment center. Center will give you much more room to store components, but finding one that is inexpensive that this TV fits in is hard. The only cheap one I know of is the O'Sullivan Furniture 20920. The TV is very wide (40") so this will fit just fine. Can be had for $315 with free delivery.

I went with the Tech-Craft HXS3436. It is built specifically for the xs955 and even swivels. Glass doors protect components. Additionally it has a bracket that attaches to the TV in the rear to insure that it wont tip over. It has enough room underneath for at least 4 components (2 large shelves with 2 components on each - stacked on each other - may offend some sensibilites). But my cable box gets super warma nd doesnt have enough air flow underneath so I picked up the OmniMount Center Channel Speaker Shelf
for the top of the TV. Looks great too.

You might be bale to rig a strap or something with a entertainment center to hold the TV in place (TV has hole in back to screw in a bracket or strap) but the Techcraft is designed specifically for it.

Good luck!

Are you sure you can't use the SONY stand? Its sturdy, safe and designed for set.

Mine looks great with just a receiver and a network file/DVD player (AVEL LP2), (which I suppose could be your TIVO)

I use a cable card - and the downside is saving the Sunday paper's TV guide or surfing (due to lack of guide) - but one elated wife.

Previously had a big stand with my RCA MM36100, reciever, HTPC, cable box, and a tangle of wires behind.

My wife is really pleased with the sleek look. All wires are spiral wrapped to a single cord.

HD is great over network from other computers via the Network player, cable card works fine for all subscribed content and at least for me the analogs are much better than out of the cable STB and no need for a separate split.

Well, I finally got the $199.99 beast in the house. I connected via S-Video and I notice there is a 2-3" sunburst in the bottom left corner. I have allot to learn and do to get this TV set up properly but is the sunburst a common fatal illness. Thanks

Well, I finally got the $199.99 beast in the house. I connected via S-Video and I notice there is a 2-3" sunburst in the bottom left corner. I have allot to learn and do to get this TV set up properly but is the sunburst a common fatal illness. Thanks

Well, it's under warranty... The question is: Will Sony fix it, or give you a new unit?

Well, I picked up the 955 last night and got it in the house. (barely) I opened the box, and no instruction manual was included. The box appeared to be factory sealed, so I find this to be a little strange? Thankfully the remote was there though. Is it best to go back to the store to obtain a copy or just get ahold of Sony directly?

Also, what cables are best for connecting to receiver, DVD, cable box, etc? I'm new to anything high tech. in the A/V world so go easy on me!

Lastly, I think I remembered reading about getting an extended warranty though Sony rather than the store where it was purchased? Does anyone have the name or web address for that?

Thanks!

TXLAB~ I am going thru this right now too. If you need warranty coverage and it was purchased anywhere other than Sony Style call 1-866-766-9259.

Are you sure you can't use the SONY stand? Its sturdy, safe and designed for set.


Cant speak for anyone else's kids, but I need the doors on the stand so that my urchins dont start pushing buttons and changing settings. Sony stand would have been perfect except for wide open access.

If you dont have kids or if they arent super curious, I would highly recommend the Sony Stand.

Cant speak for anyone else's kids, but I need the doors on the stand so that my urchins dont start pushing buttons and changing settings. Sony stand would have been perfect except for wide open access.

If you dont have kids or if they arent super curious, I would highly recommend the Sony Stand.

I've got 2 kids under the age of 3, so components behind closed doors is preferable for me as well. I ran across a couple of nice stands, but we're talking $500-$700.00. I was hoping to find a fit for less, but it doesn't look like that's going to happen. Built-ins and a crane to put the TV in is only other alternative to the expensive stands. :D

Well, because I paid less than $250.00 Sony will not offer me any extended service plans. Bummer! The good news is that the sunburst is rarely noticeable. Now I have to figure out which way I want to go; an new receiver with HDMI connection or upgrade my Dish service to HD.

Ok, even reading my own post reveals my confusion! I wont view any HD content from my receiver right?? How do HD disc players work? What is it that they are actually upconverting when a standard DVD is played??

Got mine a few weeks ago, but due to a death in the family, I haven't been able to really play with it.

So far, regular ol' SD cable looks great, except on some channels that I think have signal problems.

...any way to disconnect the circuitry on the onboard speakers to make them availble to be powered by my receiver as the center channel? (Why wouldn't manufacturer's make this a standard feature?

Great question!

I have wondered about this for a long time, but have not found an answer. If anyone knows, please post!

Thanks.

Does this feature allow for the playback of MP3 files or is it only for picture and movie files?

Does this feature allow for the playback of MP3 files or is it only for picture and movie files?
Yes

It will play mp3 files - but during a slide show. So put a couple pictures in a folder and all your mp3 in the root directory and play away

Or get a file player like the avel lp2 and play them on that into the SONY

but even that throws a picture up on the screen

Yes

It will play mp3 files - but during a slide show. So put a couple pictures in a folder and all your mp3 in the root directory and play away

Or get a file player like the avel lp2 and play them on that into the SONY

but even that throws a picture up on the screen

Great. Thanks

Wow, $199 seems incredibly low.


Unless it is damaged, I find this price hard to believe.

mphruby: I purchased this set from a Circuit City in So. California. I am not exagertaing when I say that I purchased it for $199.99. It was off in the corner in the TV section on the floor with no price tag. I inquired and was told the price. It appears to have been a floor model as the remote had velcro on it to attach to the side of the TV. It is up and running. It has a slight scratch on the bottom of the case and an extremely slight almost unnoticeable orangeish yellow half circle in the bottom left corner of the screen. With the exception of some tweaking that it needs it seems great. I am able to use all of the features from the remote and on the set itself. The sound is awesome too!. I don't know why they let it go at that price but in all honesty that is what I paid.

If that's what you paid, that's what you paid.
I have mine set up with CableCard. (although I have to reset it about once every 2 weeks)
Even the analog channels look good, however, the HD channels look unbelievable!
PBS in particular is like real life.
Congrats...

[QUOTE=mphruby]
I have mine set up with CableCard. (although I have to reset it about once every 2 weeks)
[QUOTE]


Why do you have to reset? (I never have)

I lose about half the channels for some reason.
When I go into the CableCard diagnostics and reset it, I get all the channels back.
Go figure...

So I just picked up one of these bad boys brand new...

Looks AMAZING with my Oppo DVD player hooked up via HDMI.

BUT... I'm super disappointed how my Dish Network via S-Video looks now. HORRIBLE! What a staggering difference between my old Sony Wega 32" that was 6-7 years old.

Anybody else have this problem?

Not me. Dont do dish here. Too much compression/pixelation. My basic analog cable looks
great on my KD-36XS955. I even get local channels in HD for free on the basic cable.
No OTA needed either.

Hi there all. Just bought this television from Fry's 2 days ago for $722 USD brand new, although it had been previously returned by a customer before me, apparently because it was too heavy for them to deal with. There were 3 available, and all 3 were previously returned for some reason, according to the floorman. I brought my Xbox 360 in to the store to test out the screens that I was interested in. I initially came in with the thought of picking up an LCD screen, but after all the units I tested, I ended up sticking with the tried and true CRT tech. I tried out a Mitsubishi DLP, but the color wheel separation was aggravating... I tried out a couple of 40= inch LCDs within my pricerange, and they were underwhelming at best to my standards.

I eventually led myself to the CRT section, and there were 3 televisions that caught my eye. One was a larger version of my previous TV, some sort of Phillips 32" widescreen, which didn't even have 720p (and the PQ was even worse than my 26" variant to boot), and the 2 others were both the 4:3 and 16:9 versions of the television we are talking about. I've always wanted a Sony Trinitron HDTV with the superfine pitch so that I can achieve a similar type of detail my 21" Dell Trinitron computer monitor puts out. I was willing to throw down 1500 on a tv that day, but the 36XS was the clear choice, especially for someone as biased to CRT as I am. I was hoping for a VGA input so I can hook up my computer and my Sega Dreamcast up, but dollars to donuts, the concern was minimal.

I gathered a small crowd around myself while demoing Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfighter, and I even ended up selling another patron on the same television.

I have one unfortunate issue with the set, aside from a lack of a VGA input, I ended up dropping the set while getting it up the stairs from a distance of about 5 inches. Those 5 inches were more than enough to crack the front left foot. At first, I thought the damage was merely cosmetic, and I didn't initially notice any color distortion. But a day later, I started to notice that the side I dropped it on has an EXTREMELY faint bluish hue. But it still pisses me off. Does anybody know if I'll have any luck with the refrigerator magnet technique or something similar to attempt to fix or remedy this problem? Also, in regards to the lack of VGA, I have a VGA-to-Component cord I bought for another application a while back......could I possibly use that to hook the computer up?

Overall, and excellent TV for an excellent price. Any help on the questions above would be appreciated.

Also, in regards to the lack of VGA, I have a VGA-to-Component cord I bought for another application a while back......could I possibly use that to hook the computer up?

Overall, and excellent TV for an excellent price. Any help on the questions above would be appreciated.


If you get a dvi to hdmi cable and you video card has dvi output that works fine - but realize the SONY driver for HDTVs is not specifically designed for the 36 inch 4*3 so for highest resolution on this set you will be using either 1080i or 720p outputs from your video card. Mine has them and they worked fine; but I would have preferred a 1440*1080i full screen mode (versus the 1920*1080i letterbox)

Don't see why it wouldn't work exactly the same through the vga output with a breakout cable with your video card output set to component and a supported resolution like above. Most current video cards should have these settings

If you get a dvi to hdmi cable and you video card has dvi output that works fine - but realize the SONY driver for HDTVs is not specifically designed for the 36 inch 4*3 so for highest resolution on this set you will be using either 1080i or 720p outputs from your video card. Mine has them and they worked fine; but I would have preferred a 1440*1080i full screen mode (versus the 1920*1080i letterbox)

That's too bad it won't go full screen. It's funny, because I have a VGA cable for my Xbox 360, and that supports 640 x 480, 848x480, 1024 x 768, 1280 x 720, 1280 x 768, 1280 x 1024, and 1360 x 768. I started thinking, and took that VGA to Component cable I had, attached the 2 cables together at the VGA end, and piped the signal from the 360 to my component system selector (which runs to the XS). I found out that the set picked up 640x480, 1280x720 and 1360x768, but all modes' feeds had varying levels of instability and had a pink hue to everything. So converting the VGA into component didn't work. Must be some sort of software incompatibility with the 2 signals. But it's kinda dumb that the folks in charge of HD signals didn't make fullscreen variants, because fullscreen HDTVs obviously exist. The point is that my 360 can play all they way up to 1280x1024 on a computer monitor, but the only way to display fullscreen on the XS is to change the settings to 480p, since there's no VGA port. The XS' screen resolution is magnificent. It's bewildering to me why they didn't include a VGA port on the set. I bet that set could display 1600x1200 no problem.

But thanks for the lead to the hdmi to dvi conversion cord. Just bought one on eBay.

That's too bad it won't go full screen. It's funny, because I have a VGA cable for my Xbox 360, and that supports 640 x 480, 848x480, 1024 x 768, 1280 x 720, 1280 x 768, 1280 x 1024, and 1360 x 768. I started thinking, and took that VGA to Component cable I had, attached the 2 cables together at the VGA end, and piped the signal from the 360 to my component system selector (which runs to the XS). I found out that the set picked up 640x480, 1280x720 and 1360x768, but all modes' feeds had varying levels of instability and had a pink hue to everything. .

When I was playing with this (got the cable and tried it out but no longer hooked up) there was a full screen mode that worked out of the video card DVI to the 36xs955. It was something like 720x480 - can't really rememember exactly but my point above was that the HD mode output also worked and that was much higher resolution so I would have probably used that instead of the low res 480 full screen.

I agree its a shame that there's not a decent driver for it. Clearly can do pretty well as a monitor just by looking at the way it handles the photos on the memory stick - just no drivers to get it working.

i was going to link something, but I don't have 5 posts yet to my name. It won't let me link until I get 5 posts. So I'm gonna do that right now...

post 4

post 5

How about this device?

http://www.digitalconnection.com/Products/Video/dcp261.ASP

Apparently, with this unit I could pipe VGA or Component into it, and get a DVI-i signal that I can pump into the XS' hdmi input....and would I get a fullscreen PC feed? Or does this box still only have widescreen HD support?

I have no idea - m,aybe someone else does. All I can tell you is that when I had the tv hooked up to the dvi out of my video card and into the HDMI input - the computer auto detected a SONY TV and the resolutions that would work for me were the HD widescreen ones and the low res 720*480 full screen one. ( plus some lower still 4x3 modes)

You could take one for the team and try it out but I wouldn't risk $200 to test it

I did check Powerstrip forums as well before buying the dvi/hdmi cable and I'm pretty sure the specific timing they have for this set equates to the 720*480 - which I imagine would be via the component inputs

Well, as I explore more into my $199.99 set I have found that I am unable to view the zoom, horizontal expand and vertical expand modes when depressing the screen mode button on the remote. Any ideas what this means? Any help is appreciated.

They only show up in certain modes. What mode are you using?

They only show up in certain modes. What mode are you using?

I am only able to view the FULL screen mode. This occurrs regardless of which Picture or DRC mode is choosen. Are the other Screen modes only available depending on what format - DVD, TV etc. is being viewed? I only tested this while viewing DISH Network content.

You can only get different zoom modes if the picture is "digital" or HD. Analog channels are
full screen mode only.

You can only get different zoom modes if the picture is "digital" or HD. Analog channels are
full screen mode only.

Ahha, thanks. I will do some further investigating and report my findings

Amazon has this set at $1040+$220 for shipping and this is the cheapest I have found it at online. Has anyone seen it cheaper online? I have noticed that some have found very cheap in store open box ones and I will try my luck at that as well. Is anyone in the chicagoland area that has found one in store?

I want an hdtv that best fits my xbox 360, is this one of the best choices? It seems like a very good choice, but any input would be appreciated.

While playing the xbox 360 will 1080i be in letterbox 16:9 and the only way to play full screen would be at 480p?

These are the only questions I can think of right now. Im almost sure I am going to purchase this tv. Thanks for your time guys.

I think(?) there's a Sony Style Store in the Chicago area. They may have a refurb. Ask them.

Ahha, thanks. I will do some further investigating and report my findings

Well, I had failed to have the tuner search for HD signals. All is well and i have 10-12 HD broadcasts that I am able to view and the screen options are working. great picture aside from some tweaking I need to perform.

Well, I had failed to have the tuner search for HD signals. All is well and i have 10-12 HD broadcasts that I am able to view and the screen options are working. great picture aside from some tweaking I need to perform.

Well I was fooled by what was SD broadcasts being converted to the 1080 format.

I really only get two OTA HD broadcasts in the LA area, Channel 7 local news and a PBS station. There is so much to learn :D

Is anyone in the chicagoland area that has found one in store?


It is a little farther than you wanted to drive but the Fry's store just north of Indianapolis had this model and several other Sony CRTs at very attractive prices. I won't quote numbers because of forum rules, but it made me want to cry when I saw that they had the 36XS and 34XS models for about what I paid for a 32XS in March.

OK here's one: bought my KD-36XS955 about 1.5 years ago, but just now got round to feeding it Digital/HDTV (my HD is OTA). I'm blown away by the picture, and am definitely hooked.

Despite the rave reviews for the KD-36XS955, I wasn't really impressed with it untill now.

Here's my question: I'm considering an upgrade to a Plasma or an LCD (NOT a projection), something in the 50" range. Can I expect the same level of vividness and picture quality from a flat panel as I get from the KD-36XS955? I recall folks here raving about the picture quality of the KD-36XS955, and their talk of the superiority of CRTs, even when compared with the latest and greatest Flat Panels. Will I be disappointed if I upgrade to a large flat panel (I'm considering a 50").

Thanks

You might find the black levels rather disappointing compared to a CRT. Have you considered going the Front Projector route? They can be an excellent compliment to each other. Nothing beats a REALLY large screen for movies & sports, especially in HD. The Sony is perfect for when you are watching regular TV or DVD.

Shug,

Thanks for the reply: I'd wondered about the contrast of LCD/Plasma. The KD-36XS955 HD contrast is excellent.

I want to avoid projection. I would like to hang m next tv in the living room: the KD-36XS955 is pretty overpowering physically, and, despite the fact that my living room is average to large, the KD-36XS955 is still aesthtically distracting.

I accicentally posted this in the 30xs955 thread, but I'll ask it here if anyone knows:

I've seen a post through this thread discussing the xs955's resolution to be 1440 x 1080i. I have recently purchased a Toshiba Hd dvd player and was wondering, since the movies have all been in 2:35 ratio, what the actual resolution of the movie playing on the TV would be? Obviously, the width would be 1440, but what about the height at 2:35 and 1:85. Does anyone know what the height resolution would be? Thanks!!!

I accicentally posted this in the 30xs955 thread, but I'll ask it here if anyone knows:

I've seen a post through this thread discussing the xs955's resolution to be 1440 x 1080i. I have recently purchased a Toshiba Hd dvd player and was wondering, since the movies have all been in 2:35 ratio, what the actual resolution of the movie playing on the TV would be? Obviously, the width would be 1440, but what about the height at 2:35 and 1:85. Does anyone know what the height resolution would be? Thanks!!!


I don't think that's right. 1440x1080i would be something like what I send my RCA MM36100 via a MyHD card to get full screen 4:3 on that TV. I imagine the TV is really doing whatever it can (930 or so by 540 p) with that signal

The SONY letterboxes with a 1080i signal - so its not 1440 but 1920 horizontal you should be sending it

And then it resolves 1400 or so lines with that signal.

The SONY can't do high resolution full screen with existing SONY drivers. Best I got was something like 720 by 480p for full screen.

However the resolution appears limited by the drivers - not the TV as you can put a memory card in with a high resolution image and precisely determine what the set can display - That's how you can determine the 1400 vertical lines horizontally spaced.

I don't know about the vertical resolution capability - my point was that video (with a high resolution signal and not 480i) is limited to the letter box and not the entire height which is a bummer, althought to my eyes in FULL mode w an HD signal the resolution appears to be the same (pixel wise but not inch wise) as in Normal mode

I guess, what I've think I've read from previous posts is that since this tv really is analog, even if you put out a 2:35 image to the screen, it will display all 1080 lines in the 2:35 image, wasting no scan lines on the black bar above or below the letterbox. If this is so, shouldn't it be able to resolve all 1080 lines from the HD dvd player I have?

Anyone know who to complain to about broadcasters broadcasting 4:3 content wrapped in 16:9 so there are black bars on all four sides?

Anyone know who to complain to about broadcasters broadcasting 4:3 content wrapped in 16:9 so there are black bars on all four sides?

For 4:3 broadcasts, you should use a separate input on the TV dedicated for 4:3 SD and connect w/a S-Video cord. You will then get the fullscreen pic.

For 4:3 broadcasts, you should use a separate input on the TV dedicated for 4:3 SD and connect w/a S-Video cord. You will then get the fullscreen pic.

sirfergy seems to be discussing 4:3 material in an HDsignal - which to me is easy enough just to hit the screen button on remote twice for full mode. This ability is one of the prime reasons I bought the kd 36sx955 versus a 16:9 model.

As far as the black bars all around; its just pillarboxed by the broadcaster. What would you have them do with 4:3 material. It took years to convince some stations that we don't want stretched 4:3 material; just give us the original aspect ratio. The "postage stamp" effect is because the SONY letterboxes all HD content.

sirfergy seems to be discussing 4:3 material in an HDsignal - which to me is easy enough just to hit the screen button on remote twice for full mode. This ability is one of the prime reasons I bought the kd 36sx955 versus a 16:9 model.

As far as the black bars all around; its just pillarboxed by the broadcaster. What would you have them do with 4:3 material. It took years to convince some stations that we don't want stretched 4:3 material; just give us the original aspect ratio. The "postage stamp" effect is because the SONY letterboxes all HD content.

Call me slow, but I'm not sure I fully understand the problem. On my 40XBR, I watch all HD broadcast on Video 6 input using component cables, and may only see a pillared screen during a commercial break of an HD broadcast. As for 4:3 SD broadcasts, I use Video 1 input w/S-Video and get fullscreen unless the SD broadcast is filmed & shown in widescreen format. I never zoom any program, period. It's easy to switch inputs, so what problem am I missing here that doesn't have a simple remedy?

It's easy to switch inputs, so what problem am I missing here that doesn't have a simple remedy?

My point was its just as easy to full screen (your zoom) a 4:3 show (1440x1080i) on an HD channel as it is to switch inputs and watch an s-video input. Seems like either way would work to get rid of the postage stamp - and probably be of the same quality as the source is all 480i anyway.

I find the "postage stamp" 4x3 to be very watchable. I prefer to watch the HD version of my local news stamped. as it were, rather than the analog full-screen version. The picture is much sharper and detailed.

For the same reasons shugazer9 mentioned, it just looks better on the digital version. Unfortunately, zoom mode cuts off a good percentage of what is broadcast.

I didn't realize it was Sony postage stamping, I thought it was the broadcasters mislabling their content? Wouldn't it be easier for the broadcaster to set the flags correctly for what they're showing at the time?

I didn't realize it was Sony postage stamping, I thought it was the broadcasters mislabling their content? Wouldn't it be easier for the broadcaster to set the flags correctly for what they're showing at the time?

What flags? A 4:3 flag? No such animal in the broadcast stream. The broadcaster is still sending out 1920x1080i (or 720p equivalent)even though everything outside the inner 1440 is dark (look at the edges of your postage stamp - they are ever so much a little less black than the letterbox black bars above and below which don't have a signal.)

The only reason you can Full screen is because you bought a 4:3 TV with such a feature incorporated. The 16x9 display owners only have wierd stretch modes available.

I am a little surpised by this discussion as it (4:3 full mode on a digital HD signal) really was a key feature of why I bought this set. Apparently wasn't as important to some; although I understand what shugazar9 is saying I would normally full size such content since many times it appears much sharper than the equivalent 480i analog counterpart and I like it bigger if it stays sharp

Ralph, you're right, I don't seem to have that feature on my 40XBR, but I'm sure I'd like it. Someone once posted about a so-called "jump fix" for the 40XBR going through the Service Menu but I never tried it. When viewing HD broadcasts on Video 6, I get a 37" 16:9 pic. Fortunately for me, 4:3 SD on Video 1 w/fullscreen usually gives me 40" of near DVD quality, and that was my main reason for buying a large Tube that can perform excellentl in both aspect ratios & broadcast resolutions.

I guess, what I've think I've read from previous posts is that since this tv really is analog, even if you put out a 2:35 image to the screen, it will display all 1080 lines in the 2:35 image, wasting no scan lines on the black bar above or below the letterbox. If this is so, shouldn't it be able to resolve all 1080 lines from the HD dvd player I have?

Well its analog on each horizontal scan line but there are a finite number of these scan lines (1080 lines eg digital in the vertical dimension). I have serious doubt whether the tv can resolve 1080 horizontal lines vertically when letterboxed. But maybe your HD dvd player can display photos?

If so try this page's 1920x1080 test image (http://www.belle-nuit.com/testchart.html) and see if you can fully resolve the horizontal lines (and the one line offsets) in Region 1. (I have to use a 500% zoom on my LCD monitor - [which is set to 1024x768] to clearly see the lines and their offsets)

SUBJECT CHANGE

I'd like to report that I am now typing this to you on my 36XS in 1600x1200 fullscreen.

I've been hunting for a way to do this, and I've finally found it. There are a few catches, though. 1, you have to set the TV to VERTICAL EXPAND mode, 2, you have to have a COMPATIBLE ATI VIDEO CARD, and 3, you have to purchase this:

http://www.monoprice.com/productlargeimages/23981.jpg
http://www.monoprice.com/productlargeimages/23982.jpg

(Note: I tried to post a link to an auction on eBay, but it wouldn't allow it. Go to eBay and simply type in "ati dvi component converter").

The above is a DVI to Component converter module that has dip switches on it to control what type of signal your tv will allow. The Dip switches are as follows:

-480i
-480p
-540p
-720p
-1080i
-16:9

Each of these switches can be set to an ON or OFF position (although the manual for the product states that 540p must remain OFF regardless).

I have an ATI Radeon X1600, and with the dip switches set to all of the compatible signal feeds, I am able to pipe through anything from as low as 640x480 all the way up to 2048x1536, although at that resolution, the 36XS can only display that resolution through it's own maximum limitations (presumably 1080i).

It's not perfect...there are about 10-20 pixels' worth of image cropped on each boarder, but you can still see the Start button and the Back button on an internet browser, for example. And at this 1600x1200 resolution, the image seems to be very much progressive, as there is no flicker, and the DRC button does not work.

CORRECTION: It turns out that the image feed is indeed interlaced. It seemed progresive to me at first due to the static nature of the Windows environment. But after dragging windows around, you can start to see the lines separate. I just don't know why the DRC button does not work... It is still an excellent picture, and the text (at 1600x1200) is very legible.

I've had my 36XS955 for about a month and a half now and out of nowhere the other day I just noticed that there is some bowing at the bottom of the screen. It's only noticeable when watching letterboxed material, but the bottom line arc's very slightly. I'm pretty sure this just started happening a few days ago, because I don't see how i didn't notice it before. Any way, now it's really starting to bug me and I even went in the service menu to try to fix it. I'm having trouble finding the right setting to adjust however...

Does anybody have this problem on their set?

I have a few questions about the 36XS955.

Did anyone ever measure the box that this unit comes in? If so, what are the measurements?

Is a dolley the best way to transport this beast upstairs? Or is just picking it up (with a buddy or two of course) still the best way to transport it?


Anybody have any guess whether or not Amazon will still be carrying it in a month and a half? I am moving at that time and do not have access to a Sony Outlet. I would hate to have to move it into my current apartment and then into my new apartment, but if it may go out of stock in this amount of time, I may not have a choice.

I recently developed a problem with my 36XS955. I have been noticing some shaking on the edges of the picture for a while, mostly when displaying guide info, etc... from a Moto HD cable box connected via component. A few days ago the picture became extremely overscanned, with the sides missing about 1/2 inch of info. Also, it appears the "screen" button on my remote is not working. I left the unit unplugged overnight, but that didnt help. Any diagnosis, guys? Is this something which can be fixed in the service menu and if so, how? Thanks in advance, Rick.

I have a few questions about the 36XS955.

Did anyone ever measure the box that this unit comes in? If so, what are the measurements?

Is a dolley the best way to transport this beast upstairs? Or is just picking it up (with a buddy or two of course) still the best way to transport it?


Anybody have any guess whether or not Amazon will still be carrying it in a month and a half? I am moving at that time and do not have access to a Sony Outlet. I would hate to have to move it into my current apartment and then into my new apartment, but if it may go out of stock in this amount of time, I may not have a choice.

Probally the best way to handle this tv is with two other people. I dont think a dolley would work though i could be wrong. I dont know the messurements though its a mighty big box it comes in. It took me and two other friends of mine to get it into my house.

As far as availability, you'll be able to find this set at Sonystyle as a last resort but there are places you can find this set and you will be fine two months from now i getting this set if you want it bad enough.

Im totally happy with my set, i've had it for almost a year now and i cant find any flaws with it besides its sheer weight..other then the weight, its the best HD picture i have ever seen. I've had plenty of hours in front of a 3000 dollar plasma, A10 Sony and this 36 Sony CRT till outshines those sets in terms of PQ.

Also, if your into gaming..this set is one of kind with xbox 360 Hi Def gaming..

I use my PC on this set as well for surfing the net.. i get very crisp detail with text and images when sitting 7 ft from the set while on the internet.

Best bang for the buck... you get a nice 33 inch widescreen HD picture and a HUGE 36inch Standard Def picture.

SUBJECT CHANGE

I'd like to report that I am now typing this to you on my 36XS in 1600x1200 fullscreen.

I've been hunting for a way to do this, and I've finally found it. There are a few catches, though. 1, you have to set the TV to VERTICAL EXPAND mode, 2, you have to have a COMPATIBLE ATI VIDEO CARD, and 3, you have to purchase this:

http://www.monoprice.com/productlargeimages/23981.jpg
http://www.monoprice.com/productlargeimages/23982.jpg

(Note: I tried to post a link to an auction on eBay, but it wouldn't allow it. Go to eBay and simply type in "ati dvi component converter").

The above is a DVI to Component converter module that has dip switches on it to control what type of signal your tv will allow. The Dip switches are as follows:

-480i
-480p
-540p
-720p
-1080i
-16:9

Each of these switches can be set to an ON or OFF position (although the manual for the product states that 540p must remain OFF regardless).

I have an ATI Radeon X1600, and with the dip switches set to all of the compatible signal feeds, I am able to pipe through anything from as low as 640x480 all the way up to 2048x1536, although at that resolution, the 36XS can only display that resolution through it's own maximum limitations (presumably 1080i).

It's not perfect...there are about 10-20 pixels' worth of image cropped on each boarder, but you can still see the Start button and the Back button on an internet browser, for example. And at this 1600x1200 resolution, the image seems to be very much progressive, as there is no flicker, and the DRC button does not work.

CORRECTION: It turns out that the image feed is indeed interlaced. It seemed progresive to me at first due to the static nature of the Windows environment. But after dragging windows around, you can start to see the lines separate. I just don't know why the DRC button does not work... It is still an excellent picture, and the text (at 1600x1200) is very legible.

I been using my computer on this set for a months now..almost a year. I didnt need any of that besides my ATI videocard and my Component out to the set... i dont use that ultra high resolution though neither. I just 800x600 for surfing the net ..which to me is perfect on this set at 36inches full screen..it rocks totally. For movie playback, i switch my tv to 1920x1080i.... incredible visuals dude.

This tv with a computer connected to it is just freaking awesome

I am going to post this in the the official thread as well.

Came across 2 Open box 36XS955 for $749+tax each.

They both have been on the floor for at least 6 months, maybe more.

Neither one appears to have any picture problems such as burn-in, or anything else, other than the picture seems kinda dark, especially if it is not in VIVID mode. I though I read somewhere that this is a slight problem with these sets, but after calibration by the individual or a pro, this is no longer a problem. Or is it?

Although these tv's have been, on average, ON about 12 hours a day for at least 6 months, possibly more, are they HEAVILY BEATEN IN or are they worth it, even at that low price?

I hate to get it, and then have it crap out after a short time. Is there anyway to find out time usage using the service menu soemhow?

This would be my main tv(at about 6-8 hours of use a day, maybe less) so I was wondering if it was worth it?

[QUOTE=STEELERSRULE]
They both have been on the floor for at least 6 months, maybe more.

Although these tv's have been, on average, ON about 12 hours a day for at least 6 months, possibly more, are they HEAVILY BEATEN IN or are they worth it, even at that low price?
[QUOTE]

I've only had my 36XS955 about 4 months - and still loving it (SONY Outlet refurb). I bought an RCA mm36100 36 inch direct view about 6 years ago that was a Radio Shack floor model on for about a year that was on closeout. That TV is still going strong and its better picture than most all 36 inch HDTVs today, not including the SONY SFP models.

I realize my RCA experience may not carry over to the SONY - but it seems likely that if the TV doesn't fail under the warrenty you also will be in for a long haul with it and the time in the store should not matter that much

I've had a kd-36sx955 for close to 3 months, recently I've been having a problem with a local over the air channels reception. Even if the antenna is aimed to pull in the strongest signal, the station seems to display itself only intermitently. I tune to the channel, and it says no signal at the top of the screen, the screen is blank, I go to the antenna signal strength meter and it says 87 percent. Some times if I change to another channel and switch back, the channel is on, some times it is on and then drops out, even with the signal strenth meter saying there is a strong signal. Lately, it is never on or if it is it will drop out within 30 seconds or a minute.
I just ran new quad shield cable, I have an antenna rotor, a radio shack high gain signal amplified with a pre-amp mounted on the antenna mast, and a radio shack mid range uhf/vhf antenna ( 60 - 90 mile range). The local station is within 50 miles, and until recently I have not had a problem like this with any of the channels I can receive.
I don't know if this is the t.v or maybe the amplifier. I cant understand why it says there is a strong signal, yet there is no picture. This happens with the HD and SD channel, but not with the analog channel broadcasted by this station.
Has anyone had a similar problem with their tuner?

Well, my 36XS955 began to mess up on me- one year and 5 days after buying it... (My typical luck) Took it to a repair shop and they quoted me $595.00 to replace 2 boards. That is the third Sony product in a row that has had problems, the others a refurb computer monitor and an HS10 FP. What has happened to the reliable Sony?

I've had a kd-36sx955 for close to 3 months, recently I've been having a problem with a local over the air channels reception. Even if the antenna is aimed to pull in the strongest signal, the station seems to display itself only intermitently. I tune to the channel, and it says no signal at the top of the screen, the screen is blank, I go to the antenna signal strength meter and it says 87 percent. Some times if I change to another channel and switch back, the channel is on, some times it is on and then drops out, even with the signal strenth meter saying there is a strong signal. Lately, it is never on or if it is it will drop out within 30 seconds or a minute.
I just ran new quad shield cable, I have an antenna rotor, a radio shack high gain signal amplified with a pre-amp mounted on the antenna mast, and a radio shack mid range uhf/vhf antenna ( 60 - 90 mile range). The local station is within 50 miles, and until recently I have not had a problem like this with any of the channels I can receive.
I don't know if this is the t.v or maybe the amplifier. I cant understand why it says there is a strong signal, yet there is no picture. This happens with the HD and SD channel, but not with the analog channel broadcasted by this station.
Has anyone had a similar problem with their tuner?

Frank,

If I understand you correctly, this seems to be a problem on ONE HD/SD channel.

Or is it on ALL of your OTA SD/HD stations?

If it is on the one channel alone, maybe THEY are having problems with their signal, as this is not uncommon.

If I were you, I would go into the LOCAL HDTV INFO Thread, find your market you are located in, and ask people near you if they are having the same issue with that channel as well.

If they are, then it is not your tv, it is the station. Something is wrong with their transmitter or something.

If no one else is experiencing it, and you are having this problem on ALL of your OTA stations, then it might be a problem with the TV.

Just make sure all your connections are snug, and the wire you just laid out isn't crimped anywhere. maybe it is a bad cable, but I doubt it(it is possible though).

But I would go into the LOCAL HDTV INFO Thread first to find out if it is a station problem.

Also need to know if this is happening on all your OTA stations(CLEAR QAM CABLE HD/SD stations as well?) or not.

I am having the problem just with one station, on it's HD channel and on it's SD channel, it's analog channel works fine.

I'll look for post about my local area HD channels and see what they are saying about this channel.

Thanks for the feed back.
I just find it strange that the t.v. says there is a strong signal when there is no picture present.

I am having the problem just with one station, on it's HD channel and on it's SD channel, it's analog channel works fine.

I'll look for post about my local area HD channels and see what they are saying about this channel.

Thanks for the feed back.
I just find it strange that the t.v. says there is a strong signal when there is no picture present.
Frank,

Your talking about KCUV DT in DMA130. The problem is not with your TV, it is with the station. They have corruption in their signal, they can't find it and it is driving some of us crazy. Some receivers are sensitive to garbage that is introduced to the signal, which is the case here. I've been working with KCVU in attempt to identify and rectify the problem.

John

Won't a dvi to hdmi cable work best for connecting a computer to the 36XS955? Why use an adaper and component cables, or just component cables?

Hey, guys. Sorry if this has been discussed already, but is there any problem using the Oppo DV-970HD with this set? I perused the DVD/TV combo posting thread, but didn't see anyone with this setup (though I may have missed it). I'll be buying one shortly unless somebody says, STOP, DISPLAYS CRAPPY ON THE 36XS955 FOR SOME STRANGE REASON!

unless somebody says, STOP, DISPLAYS CRAPPY ON THE 36XS955 FOR SOME STRANGE REASON!

Isn't that an upscaler? STOP - you have an HD set. Consider a player capable of HD playback (maybe an IODATA LP2 and revert the firmware for HD upconvert, do a filter mod for clarity - or other HD capable player versus upscaling

Uh-oh. This is more complicated than I thought. Glad I checked here first. I thought I could get away with not doing the research on the DVD player. Apparently I was mistaken!

If you are only interested in DVD playback (480i) upscaling is the way to go. But if you want to upscale DVDs, playback High Definition movies and TV shows (ts files) consider an HD playback capable device that also does DVDs is my only point - plus if you aren't interested in an HTPC hookup to your TV something like an LP2 also will do limited web surfing and file playback from a network.

I had a Samsung 950 which upscaled to 1080i and it looked Great on this set(until the player crapped out) Many people are saying that the Toshiba HD-DVD player has the best upconversion of SD yet. I must also say that my Denon 2200 DVD player looks great using the TVs line interpolater which displays it in 960i.

Isn't that an upscaler? STOP - you have an HD set. Consider a player capable of HD playback (maybe an IODATA LP2 and revert the firmware for HD upconvert, do a filter mod for clarity - or other HD capable player versus upscaling

I couldn't find any info on this IODATA LP2 player. How much are we talking about? Any reason I shouldn't go with the Toshiba HD-A1? Seems to be a popular model. The official thread is so gargantuan, though, I haven't made much of a dent.

I couldn't find any info on this IODATA LP2 player. How much are we talking about? Any reason I shouldn't go with the Toshiba HD-A1? Seems to be a popular model. The official thread is so gargantuan, though, I haven't made much of a dent.

Here is a 4000 post thread on it lp2 thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8113846&&#post8113846)

and a newer thread with links is here here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4843048&&#post4843048)

It was around $200 after rebate when I bought it. You do need to revert firmware to get upscaling (or rip to files) and get rid of some filters for best viewing

iodat lp2 (http://www.iodata.com/usa/products/products.php?cat=HNP&sc=AVEL&pId=AVLP2%2FDVDLA&ts=2&tsc=)

looks like compusa will now have it for $199

Thanks for the links. But this player doesn't play HD-DVDs, does it? Also, it's not region-less, which is a necessity for me. Unless this can be corrected through firmware changes.

Compass-
I would definately get an HD-DVD player. If you can wait a bit, the next-gen units will be better in many ways.

Compass-
I would definately get an HD-DVD player. If you can wait a bit, the next-gen units will be better in many ways.

How long do I have to wait?

(p.s. Slowdive = king of all shoegazers)

Id say by christmas time. If audio is an important factor to you, the new HD-DVD players will have multi-channel Dolby TrueHD (Only stereo now) Also, they will be able to pass 1080P video. There is also the option of getting a Playstation 3, which would be a perfect compliment to the 36XS955.

Slowdive is about the only shoegazer band i have never heard, so i'll have to check em out!

I've got the problem with my kd36xs955. It shuts off and turns back on and after a while it doesn't turn back on until I unplug it from the wall. It seems to happen more when the room is warmer. I checked the error codes with the display, 5, - vol, power and I've got all zeros except for 101: WDT 3 What would be the problem? The tv is 14 months old and this happens 3-6 times per day.

I heard that my D board could be bad...

Any thoughts?

Jason

Guys,

I solved my selection.....went to a couple of stores, BB, HH and looked at both the Sony 34xbr970 and the Sammy TXS-3082...the 3082 had the better picture in BB and it was right next to the xbr970...however, the geometry issues were present, easy to see in the menu mode., slight but there in any case. I could live with it....until.....

Went to HH to have a look-see.....saw the xbr970, and the 3082....and to the left of the xbr970 was the KD36XS955....hands down it beat them all. $20 more than the Sammy, $400 less than the xbr970 and the picture was fantastic. That superfine dot pitch tube makes a big diff. Looking at a High-def news channel there were no visible vertical lines in text shown in the bottom ticker on the XS955...on the xbr970 and the 3082 they were easy to see.

Delivery is Tuesday....now I need to order the OPPO 971 to seal the deal.

I'm in the Atlanta metro area and while I was closing the sale I glanced at the computer the sales guys was using...it showed stock for the 36XS955 in the area stores...looks like they have about 20-25 in stock in the area. And from what the price was marked, they look to be closing out inventory. I got a great deal.

FYI, one store had the price marked $100 less than the other. If you are in the Atlanta area, make sure to check out the prices at multiple stores and ask for inventory amounts.

Just scored on a floor model at CC for 739. They are delivering it on Friday. No geometry problems seen on it and it looked to be in great shape. I have a 34" Panasonic which I love and had a Toshiba 36HF73 which I bought at Costco a few years ago. I thought the Toshiba
PQ was great until I got my Panasonic. The PQ I saw at CC was superb. Sold me Toshiba for 600 dollars so it was not much money to upgrade. Anyone have directv hooked to this set?
HD channels looked great on my Panasonic but terrible on my Toshiba. Comcast HD channels looked much better on my Toshiba. I can only assume that the Panasonic has a better noise reduction circuit. Hopefully they will look even better then my Panasonic. I do think that no CRT can match the colors I am seeing on my Panasonic.

Went to HH to have a look-see.....saw the xbr970, and the 3082....and to the left of the xbr970 was the KD36XS955....hands down it beat them all. $20 more than the Sammy, $400 less than the xbr970 and the picture was fantastic. That superfine dot pitch tube makes a big diff. Looking at a High-def news channel there were no visible vertical lines in text shown in the bottom ticker on the XS955...on the xbr970 and the 3082 they were easy to see.

FYI, one store had the price marked $100 less than the other. If you are in the Atlanta area, make sure to check out the prices at multiple stores and ask for inventory amounts.

I live in Birmingham and am not that familiar w/Atlanta... what is HH?

Finally got my set. Only problem was with my Directv h20 hdmi output. Called Sony and they
unoffically acknowledged the problem but would not officially say that it was a documented problem. Component looks as good and my hdmi dvd player works fine so I will be keeping that input for a HD player. Also widescreen material is very compressed. My last 36'' hd set
wasn't as compressed. I vertically stretched it and it looks great but as soon as you change hd stations it goes back to full which is letterboxed on this set. Not thrilled that I Have to do it every time I change stations. My Toshiba would keep that setting until I changed it evertime I change a station. Calibrated from the torch mode and all looks great. I still have to give the edge to my Panasonic 34wx54 for overall
PQ. I know I will offend some Sony loyalist but my Panasonic has an equal sharpness and
more vibrant colours and more of a silky three dimensional look. I know after looking at many televisions that I have the best two crts made.

Just found a stretch mode on my directv remote that does a great job and sets it
until you change it.

Just found a stretch mode on my directv remote that does a great job and sets it
until you change it.

I don't think that's a good way to go. I had the same problem with DISH because of the automatic letterboxing when the set sees a 1080i or a 720p signal.

In my case I just set the TV to be a 16:9 set for HD setup (in Dish). That way it looks correct for HD sets in full mode and no scaling/loss of resolution.

For the great majority of the other 200-300 stations -yes they are in a postage stamp. But it is better watching them in s-video anyway for me so I just switch inputs. For the WAF it is left mostly in S-video and the HDMI input is reserved for HD (when a channel really is in HD)

EDIT - I did have directv for a couple days before going to Dish - in one department they had the advantage with this TV - you could set Native for the mode versus Dish having to choose 1080i/720p or one of the 480s

This was a tremendous advantage in that you could leave it at Native but I sort of still recollect needing to hit the picture button to size it correctly

Oh well - the dilemna of a 4:3 tv in a 16:9 HD world does require some compromising - but not as much as the 16:9 folks being force to watch their 4:3 material in a postage stamp without options except distortion.

This really did seem to work better on my COMCAST box (Motorola) when I had it

Actually everthing is great with the directv. Now I still have to go into the main menu and vertically expand the picture every time I restart the dvd player or switch inputs. I wish the
remote had a aspect button like my Panasonic CT34WX54. On that remote I can change it with a push of a button. Sony should of either did that or have the setting stick till you manually change them. Other then that annoying problem I love this set. PQ on HD is fantastic. Better then my Panasonic. My Panasonic has a better dvd PQ. Both sets are in my opinion fantastic. Strange that Consumer reports gave the XBR960 a excellent rating for HD PQ and this set and the 34'' XS a very good rating. I was under the impression that
they have the same insides. I saw this one and the xbr960 next to one another with the
same hd feed and they looked identical with the same settings.

HH is HHgregg. Have had the unit for about a week now and I've very pleased. I'm waiting for my OPPO 971 to arrive and complete the setup. And I connected my Denon 1905 center channel pre-amp out to the TV's center speakers under the HDMI connector. Since the OPPO 971 is DVI out this will work great to eliminate the center speaker.

-B

Any owners of this set have an issue with vertical shadow-like areas that are readily visible on light backgrounds and/or when the camera pans? If the image is static, you can't see anything wrong, but as soon as it moves, whoa, watch out. It almost appears as a light case of burn-in, but the set is brand new. Any ideas?

I looked closely at Sony's Warranty, and they won't attempt to fix "screen imperfections", so I'm kind of on my own here. Thanks in advance.

Oh, does anyone have any trusted service techs they can recommend in So Cal? Preferably someone who is familiar with Sony CRTs?

When I view a light gray background on my 36XS955, I get patches of lighter and darker colors. The corners are relatively OK, between the LB corner and middle I get a yellowish looking patch. It is not apparent for normal video - I see it if I put a up 'still' menu (I have Dish).

No amount of changing 'Landing' settings has helped. Am I missing something? Please help. TIA.

This is the closest post I could find to my problem. My issue occurs on all light-colored screens, though, and I don't have a yellowish looking patch.

It's a slight unevenness in the application of the phosphors coating the inside of the screen. Mine has it too -- it's very faint, and it took a hockey game for me to notice it. It hasn't gotten any worse in the year I've had the set; if anything, it's gotten better (or perhaps my eyes are learning to ignore it).

It's a slight unevenness in the application of the phosphors coating the inside of the screen. Mine has it too -- it's very faint, and it took a hockey game for me to notice it. It hasn't gotten any worse in the year I've had the set; if anything, it's gotten better (or perhaps my eyes are learning to ignore it).

Thanks. At least now I have an explanation as to what it could be. Where did you get that explanation, by the way?

If that's it, though, seems like there'd be no way to fix it. Which troubles me as I'm finding it very difficult to ignore. When watching anime, where there's lots of screens of solid colors, it's quite apparent. Or in a game like Shadow of the Colossus, anytime the camera breaks away and shows the light-colored scenery (when you're on the right track to a Colossus), it's brutally apparent. These are just a couple examples. At this point, I'm noticing it more often than I'm not. It feels like the image is "dirty" with these gray-ish anomalies.

I recall reading the explanation somewhere -- in the Sony Service Manual thread, I think.

All,

Been following this thread and after doing my research have decided to go with a 36XS955. Tried to purchase via HHGreg (after seeing the great price mentioned above) but you can only buy at store. I'm in the Philly area so it was a "no go". If anyone has seen or has a lead on a brand new one of these close to the $$ mentioned above within a reasonable distance of Philly (preferably through a B&M retailer), please PM me.

Thanks

COL P,
Check to see if you have a Sony Style store in the Philly area. They often have some outrageous deals on this set.

Try a regional search (by going to the store and getting someone to help you) with Best Buy or Circuit City, or maybe even Sears. Also, the Sony Outlet in Rehoboth may have some of these as refurb for an unbeatable price...

Thanks,

I've checked most of the BB's and Circuit City's in my immediate area but probably need to expand my search a little. Hadn't thought about Sears or the Sony Outlet in Rehobeth. I'll give them a call. Thanks for the ideas.

I'm thinking to buy this set but I have one major concern.

My stand is 16 inches at the sides and 23 inches or so at its deepest point. It's a strange shape, I know, but it's all I have at the moment. Will I have to to endure sleepless nights, worrying about my precious cube of visual enjoyment? Or can I rest easy, knowing that it won't tip over or anything of that ilk?

Thanks.

I'm thinking to buy this set but I have one major concern.

My stand is 16 inches at the sides and 23 inches or so at its deepest point. It's a strange shape, I know, but it's all I have at the moment. Will I have to to endure sleepless nights, worrying about my precious cube of visual enjoyment? Or can I rest easy, knowing that it won't tip over or anything of that ilk?

Thanks.

dont let the stand stop you from getting this nice set... best 36 inch hdtv ever made really. i had my set on a makeshift stand for about 4 days until my stand arrived..i was using some pastic milk crate things you see all the time with some rather thin plywood for the tv to sit on..i was nervous at first but then i know it would be ok.

The moral of the story..get the set before its too late :D

Won't a dvi to hdmi cable work best for connecting a computer to the 36XS955? Why use an adaper and component cables, or just component cables?

i just use component cables from my ati all in wonder 800xt, works perfectly

http://www.nextag.com/ATI-ALL-IN-WONDER-65772327/prices-html

For those interested, this set is now 799 at hhgregg.

Too bad hhgregg doesn't sell online(no store in my area). Going to continue searching online.

Just floor models available here in North Jersey and I wanted a new one. Ordered the TV on 8-19 and received delivery today 8-28. Replaced a 36"SD JVC so I was used to the size but this set is heavier than I expected. Anyway the Amazon purchase was flawless and the set was delivered from a pallet with no dents whatsoever on the box. I did have to help the driver get the TV in the house and in my living room which was the extent of his service. I am glad I made the cut and ordered this TV before they are all gone. The manufacturing date is Jan 2006. Good luck to all who are still searching!

Just wondering if I'll see any difference between the Oppo OPDV971H and the DV-970HD on this set. Any recomendations, i know that they use different chips. I plan on hooking it up to a 2X1 Enhanced HDMI Switch with built-in Equalizer from monoprice. Any info on this (good or bad) will be appreciated. Thanks!

will i b better off getting this than the XBR970?...with it not being widescreen and all...cuz at my local hhgregg, where i will b buying a new tv, they have them both on sale 4 a great price...

http://www.hhgregg.com/ProductDetail.asp?SID=98B867C28E5B47BD80DD98A34B186056&ProductID=10998

http://www.hhgregg.com/ProductDetail.asp?SID=98B867C28E5B47BD80DD98A34B186056&ProductID=15869

Get 'em while there hot!

I was just going to add I got a 955 for $799 + 5 year warr. for $159.

Anyone know the difference between an extended warranty from Sony Style (their online retail site) and say HHGregg. Sony quoted me $90 for a 5 year on this TV over the phone, said it covered in-home parts and labor, but I can't find any details in print on the website!

Mine's supposed to be delivered tomorrow from HHGregg!

It should be $150 for five years for that set. At least it was a couple weeks ago when I looked into it. Search under "extended warranties" on the sonystyle site for info.

Thats the same price ($90) I got when I bought a refurb from SONY Outlets. The price on the extended warrentee is a function of what you pay for the TV - so if you got that discounted price from HHGREG (around $800) that's also what I paid so our extended warrentees were the same

Yes that makes sense, he asked the price, which was $799.97, and then gave me the warranty quote.

Anyone have a link to the actual language of the warranty from Sony?

I did see a note on their website that it was underwritten by a different company (Service Net Solutions, LLC and Service Net Solutions of Florida, LLC.). I just can't fine the "terms and conditions" it references.

OK, I found the warranty info after doing a search at Sony Style...thanks Compass. I was there before but musta been blind to clicking on the "Televisions" link once I got there to get the detailed info.

Looks pretty good. They will service in home parts and labor on TVs >25". The coverage is of course limited to the price paid (less tax) and they can opt to buy you out for that price at any time in lieu of repair or replacement. So that's one reason it is priced according to price paid.

They actually have the pricing right there. It looks like over $750 for 5 years is $99.99 not $89.99 though. We'll see when I call after I get the TV. 4 years is listed as $89.99.

You can cancel for a full refund w/in 60 days and can get a prorated rebate at any time. It's also transferable if you let them know in writing.

I'd post the link but I'm not able to post links until I have 5 posts I guess. I just did what Compass suggested.

Hi.
I'm brand new to this site, and found it searching for solutions to my problems with my KX-36XS955.
The set is great, phenomenal HD picture etc.
SD kinda suxors, and its quite dark ( i have to set my brightness to almost max)
This may have been discussed on this thread, but there's 24 pages to it, and i got a headache after reading about 8 pages.
So, the biggest problem i have right now, is the discoloration on the bottom left, and top right corners of the screen. You can really see them when there is a red background, because the corners turn purple-ish blue. Theyre not huge, about the size of a baseball, but they are annoying when i notice them.
Oh, by the way, i only found out about this tv while searching for a new set after mine went out about a month ago...much to my dismay, they discontinued it, and no stores were carrying it. I happened to have a salesman at circuit city do a city-wide seach, and he found a few open-box modles at other stores. So i got an open box model with a couple of small scratches on the feet, for only $704 before taxes, and payed about $150 for a 3 yr. service plan. Very happy with the set, but can somone help with those discolorations? Thanks!

Hi All, This is my second post in this thread. I have owned the S955 for 3 days now and noticed a blueish discoloration on the left side of the screen extending almost one third torwards the middle. The color is faint and is very noticeable on a white screen ie my cable box set up screen as well as on yellows that show on the cable guide. Any suggestions? I have removed my center channel speaker which is heavily shielded and is located on a shelf approximately 8 inches below the set with no results. This is the same speaker that posed no problems with the previous JVC I replaced.
Should I proceed with the warranty process??? Anyone done this?? I love the set and will go through the effort to resolve this.
Thanks in advance! :o

Does anyone use the 'audio output' on this tv? Do you run all your video and sound sources directly to the TV and then have the TV run the audio back to your home theatre receiver? What are the pros and cons?

Can someone explain the variable and fixed setting? I'm guessing that if you want the TV remote or the stereo remote to control the volume?

Just doing some pre-arrival planning...thx.

I would probably only use that if I were using the receiver in the TV for HD. Otherwise it wouldn't make sense to run it through it.

I've made a lot of calls and can't seem to find a 36xs955 in my area. Where's the best place to order one online?

Alternatively, a (semi) local Best Buy will deliver at 34xbr970 (NOT 960) for about $1000 + tax, or a local store will sell a floor model 34xbr960 for $1200 + tax (seems a bit much for a floor model).

Does anyone use the 'audio output' on this tv? Do you run all your video and sound sources directly to the TV and then have the TV run the audio back to your home theatre receiver? What are the pros and cons?

Can someone explain the variable and fixed setting? I'm guessing that if you want the TV remote or the stereo remote to control the volume?

Just doing some pre-arrival planning...thx.

I have a cablecard in my 36xs955 and run my audio to my Panasonic XR-55 receiver using the optical audio out. It works fine.

Advantage of this setup is letting your Sony and its own video circuitry resolve the cable signal vs. the cable box. Seems to give a better picture for me.

Seems to give a better picture for me.

That's kinda what I was wondering. If running the video directly is 'cleaner'; seems like the less connections the better. I also wasn't sure if the audio out was digital. I didn't know if the audio would suffer from going through the TV first, but in your case w/ no cable box that's where it originates anyway.

Thanks.

Hi All, This is my second post in this thread. I have owned the S955 for 3 days now and noticed a blueish discoloration on the left side of the screen extending almost one third torwards the middle. The color is faint and is very noticeable on a white screen ie my cable box set up screen as well as on yellows that show on the cable guide. Any suggestions? I have removed my center channel speaker which is heavily shielded and is located on a shelf approximately 8 inches below the set with no results. This is the same speaker that posed no problems with the previous JVC I replaced.
Should I proceed with the warranty process??? Anyone done this?? I love the set and will go through the effort to resolve this.
Thanks in advance! :o

This is a well known problem w/Sony's large screen CRT's. My 40XBR was totally fixed by a CC Tech. It all revolves around the magnetic shielding, and it's my belief the Tubes are of such a large size that they just can not be totally shielded, and from their design are extremely succeptable to external magnetic fields. If I were you, I would move ALL external speakers away from the TV,and call in the Tech. Where did you buy your TV?

I just got this TV today for $799 from HHGregg. I haven't gotten a chance to play with it yet, I'm waiting to finish my basement, which is where the TV is at (in storage, basically.) I was curious:
Can we get Xbox 360 at 1440x1080 on this set? Or do we have to deal with the letter-boxing?

Thanks :)

There is no output setting 1440x1080i for the 360. The only 4:3 settings are with the VGA adapter and using resolutions like 1024x768, 1280x1024, and even then the majority of games force letterbox in these 4:3 resolutions.

anyway, 720p/1080i setting is what you want, but they'll all be letterbox. I wish I could see this set running the 360 :D

I have the XBOX connected to the set and it looks great. I love this set but one thing that is
distracting is the shimmering I am seeing with vertical lines. See them on some dvd movies and Satellite feeds. I have the velocity scan mod off but stil see it. Just wondered if anyone has seen this. I have the same dvd player to my Panasonic 34x54 and 0 shimmering. My son has played three games and all have been widescreen with letterboxing. You can expand it with your screen button on your remote. Choose vertical expand but you will lose some picture quality.

I have the XBOX connected to the set and it looks great. I love this set but one thing that is
distracting is the shimmering I am seeing with vertical lines. See them on some dvd movies and Satellite feeds. I have the velocity scan mod off but stil see it. Just wondered if anyone has seen this. I have the same dvd player to my Panasonic 34x54 and 0 shimmering. My son has played three games and all have been widescreen with letterboxing. You can expand it with your screen button on your remote. Choose vertical expand but you will lose some picture quality.

I too have seen some shimmering lines when watching a program in HD or somthing, whenever theres like, a patter on the screen with close lines or somthing. The lines seem to be moving even if its standing still. Take for instance the Twin Towers which used to be in New York. I was watching some stuff on the 9/11 events, and when they would show the buildings, being still, the pattern on them would be shimmy-ing because of the vertical lines of the building. Weird.

I still don't know how to fix the discolored spot on the bottom left though.
Anyone know?

I too have seen some shimmering lines when watching a program in HD or somthing, whenever theres like, a patter on the screen with close lines or somthing. The lines seem to be moving even if its standing still. Take for instance the Twin Towers which used to be in New York. I was watching some stuff on the 9/11 events, and when they would show the buildings, being still, the pattern on them would be shimmy-ing because of the vertical lines of the building. Weird.

I still don't know how to fix the discolored spot on the bottom left though.
Anyone know?

The shimmering seems to be with this set and no other that I have. Maybe some of the members that know more about this set can tell me any setting that may help. Other then the shimmering, I love the set. The shimmering is distracting though.

Hello all,

I am rapidly approaching the end of my warranty period. I have recently lost the ability to adjust some of the vertical corrections within the service menu and was planning on taking the set in for repair or replacement of one of the boards. I have also notice more recently that I think I'm seeing some burn-in from my family's viewing of 4:3 material. I can only describe the burn-in as areas that are a shade darker/dimmer and a slight linearity issue when an image moves past these areas (like a right to left pan or vise-versa.) Does this sound like a form of burn-in or maybe an aperture grill failure? If so, show I look into having the tube replaced since they aren't going to be producing these tubes anymore?
It seems like it would be reasonable timing to have something like this done while the parts costs are being taken by Sony.

Any thoughts?

Bryan

Has anyone here tried running a Direct TV SD signal through an upconverting DVD Recorder into the Sony in order to improve the signal quality? I am thinking of picking up a DVD recorder in the next few months and wondered how well it did with this set. Looking at RCA DCR8060N, Samsung DVD-R135 and LG DR1H9F.

Hello All, I posted previously regarding discoloration of my picture on one area of the screen. Sony sent out a tech who diagnosed the set as having a bad picture tube. I had expected to get the option of a new set for replacement but Sony offered me a reconditioned set for direct exchange or the option of having the picture tube replaced. I can not justify paying the price for a new set and settling for a reconditioned set for a out of the box failure. Is having the picture tube replaced my only way to go? Help! :( :confused:

Reconditioned is probably better than a new tube.

Can these tv's display in 720p? and how does it do so?
I have my cable box running through component cables, and the channel is set to ch. 4, and i control the channels through the cable box. But every channel has the same setting, which is 1080i and its never 720p. does it depend on the signal that is sent out from the broadcaster? also, it will not allow me to choose a DRC mode when it is on a high def channel.
Another complaint about the picture though: when there is a bright area next to a dark area you can see a double vision of the light area bleeding over to the dark area. For instance, when i'm waching a tennis match, you can see the lines on the court in double vision, but the secondary set are kind of "ghost" lines that bleed over to the green of the court. Its very annoying. how can this be fixed?
I need to call circuit-city and have them send out a sony tech to fix the color landing too. thanks for any help offered.

Your set scales any 720p signal to 1080i. If you hit your diplay button you will see the original resolution. ESPN will show 720p and CBS will show 1080i. Any dvd movie will display 480p.

how does this stack up against a KV-40XBR800?

You know what else my TV has done twice now, in the last few days, is whenever i'll have the picture set to "zoom" to veiw a regular 4:3 display full screen, after a few minutes, it'll go blank, then come back on reset to the clipped view with black boarders. Whats up with that? Is it a defect? Help!

I am able to pick up one of these units for a good price. I already have a kv36-hs510 in my family room and one of the two will go into my rec room. What are the differences and does it make the picture quality that much better over the hs510? The tv will be hooked up to TWC HD DVR box. The family room tv is the main one, so the best one will go there. Thanks for help.

S-Man, same exact thing has happened to me once. Let's see if it happens again.

hello everyone. I have a kd-34xs955 on order and I'd like to know what otb settings you guys would recommend. I don't plan on going in the service menu for a little while at least. I'll be using (for now anyway) an oppo 971 upconverting dvd player and an xbox360. Thanks in advance.

Are there any adapters to convert vga -> hdmi or vga->component so I can use my Xbox 360 via the VGA output, which is supposed to be much better.

I have had problems using my HDMI input. Both my SA 8300HD DVR and a chapo DVD player with HDMI output will not work via HDMI. (Video out from computer dvi to HDMI works). The SA 8300HD tells me my TV doesnt support HDCP. The DVD player just shows a flickering blue screen. Is this a common problem? I've done the off/on, reconenct cable business. I had a tech come out; he had no idea and blamed the devices.

Thanks for your suggestions.

Drew

How is SD content (games, 4:3 TV, etc) on this set? Comparable to a non-HD analog FD Trinitron? Thanks.

I have had problems using my HDMI input. Both my SA 8300HD DVR and a chapo DVD player with HDMI output will not work via HDMI. (Video out from computer dvi to HDMI works). The SA 8300HD tells me my TV doesnt support HDCP. The DVD player just shows a flickering blue screen. Is this a common problem? I've done the off/on, reconenct cable business. I had a tech come out; he had no idea and blamed the devices.

Thanks for your suggestions.

Drew

I can't tell you what the problem is, but I can pass on the following from article C209367 on Sony's eSupport Knowledge Base (http://iq.sony.com/SRVS/CGI-BIN/WEBCGI.EXE?New,Kb=CISCV3,Company={46BFA530-E01F-4F7C-B98B-69C2AA06051B},Case=Obj(209367),TS=Externalv4,UseTemplate=res ponse_case.tem,VARSET_OBJ=209367,VARSET_MAX=TRUE,question=re f(QC):ord(1),question=ref(QB):ord(1)):

Do Sony® televisions with a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connection support High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP)?

Yes. All Sony® televisions with an HDMI connection support HDCP.

I started wondering if my 'X955 was going to show BD/HD DVD discs in all their glory, and I was a bit worried, since the manual doesn't even mention HDCP. But according to the above article, we should be good to go.

I searched the KB for HDCP and found a few troubleshooting articles (C387911 (http://www.iq.sony.com/SRVS/CGI-BIN/WEBCGI.EXE/,/?St=277,E=0000000000692932133,K=677,Sxi=3,Case=obj(387911),V ARSET_OBJ=387911,VARSET_TSRC=results,UseTemplate=case.tem,VA RSET_TOP=TRUE), C352497 (http://www.iq.sony.com/SRVS/CGI-BIN/WEBCGI.EXE/,/?St=277,E=0000000000692932133,K=677,Sxi=3,Case=obj(352497),V ARSET_OBJ=352497,VARSET_TSRC=results,UseTemplate=case.tem,VA RSET_TOP=TRUE), C355001 (http://www.iq.sony.com/SRVS/CGI-BIN/WEBCGI.EXE/,/?St=277,E=0000000000692932133,K=677,Sxi=3,Case=obj(355001),V ARSET_OBJ=355001,VARSET_TSRC=results,UseTemplate=case.tem,VA RSET_TOP=TRUE)). You might want to check them out.

I have had problems using my HDMI input. Both my SA 8300HD DVR and a chapo DVD player with HDMI output will not work via HDMI. (Video out from computer dvi to HDMI works). The SA 8300HD tells me my TV doesnt support HDCP. The DVD player just shows a flickering blue screen. Is this a common problem? I've done the off/on, reconenct cable business. I had a tech come out; he had no idea and blamed the devices.

Thanks for your suggestions.

Drew

I have a HDMI cable connecting my cable box to my tv, and sometimes, like if i switch video modes for a while, (say i watch a dvd while my cable box is on) then switch video modes back to the cable box, the cable box on screen disply says that my tv does not support HDMI. So I turn the cable box off for a few seconds, then turn it back on, and it works... Must be some type of signal detection thing or somthing. Also, I think the HDMI video setting is Video 7. Make sure you have it on video 7 regardless of device, if you're using hdmi hookup.

How is SD content (games, 4:3 TV, etc) on this set? Comparable to a non-HD analog FD Trinitron? Thanks.

Well, SD content, like my Xbox connected via composite (not hd-quality component) looked pretty crappy. I would'nt say its any better or worse than a regular analog tv though. Upgrading to Component cables though made a world of difference...Its alot better, although i can see alot more jaggies now, but thats just due to the low resolution of the game. My brother has an analog 32" RCA tv, and his xbox is connected with component cables and it looks good too, but its displayed in hd on my tv so its better.
As far as analog 4:3 television signals, the non-hd sets are far better. the SD television signal on this HD looks terrible...Sometimes you can see pixels, and the edges on everything is either kinda fuzzy or jagged edged, (i guess due to the "digital" signal). I was highly disappointed with the SD picture on this set, but the HD signals are unbelievable. You really have to see it to believe it. Football games are like in 3-D. Baseball too. Its amazing.

I have my Directv HD and SD through both component and HDMI. Analog stations look fine. Since my H20 dosn't have a regular coaxial output I tried the S-video and used the DRC to line double and the PQ is crap. My H20 does a progressive scan on regular analog. My display shows 4:3 480p. My only complaint is on my dvd side is the shimmering I see and the set letterboxes my dvd movies. On my Toshiba 36hf73 I would set my dvd player to 16:9 and 1:85 would fill up the entire screen and 2:35 would have bars but not take up too much of the screen. Like a letterboxed movie or ad on analog.

I can't tell you what the problem is, but I can pass on the following from article C209367 on Sony's eSupport Knowledge Base (http://iq.sony.com/SRVS/CGI-BIN/WEBCGI.EXE?New,Kb=CISCV3,Company={46BFA530-E01F-4F7C-B98B-69C2AA06051B},Case=Obj(209367),TS=Externalv4,UseTemplate=res ponse_case.tem,VARSET_OBJ=209367,VARSET_MAX=TRUE,question=re f(QC):ord(1),question=ref(QB):ord(1)):

Do Sony® televisions with a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) connection support High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP)?

Yes. All Sony® televisions with an HDMI connection support HDCP.

I started wondering if my 'X955 was going to show BD/HD DVD discs in all their glory, and I was a bit worried, since the manual doesn't even mention HDCP. But according to the above article, we should be good to go.

I searched the KB for HDCP and found a few troubleshooting articles (C387911 (http://www.iq.sony.com/SRVS/CGI-BIN/WEBCGI.EXE/,/?St=277,E=0000000000692932133,K=677,Sxi=3,Case=obj(387911),V ARSET_OBJ=387911,VARSET_TSRC=results,UseTemplate=case.tem,VA RSET_TOP=TRUE), C352497 (http://www.iq.sony.com/SRVS/CGI-BIN/WEBCGI.EXE/,/?St=277,E=0000000000692932133,K=677,Sxi=3,Case=obj(352497),V ARSET_OBJ=352497,VARSET_TSRC=results,UseTemplate=case.tem,VA RSET_TOP=TRUE), C355001 (http://www.iq.sony.com/SRVS/CGI-BIN/WEBCGI.EXE/,/?St=277,E=0000000000692932133,K=677,Sxi=3,Case=obj(355001),V ARSET_OBJ=355001,VARSET_TSRC=results,UseTemplate=case.tem,VA RSET_TOP=TRUE)). You might w


ant to check them out.




How do the Hi def movies look on the set?

I can only imagine that the HD-DVD's would be displayed in 1080i, as that is the highest resolution this set displays in. The big advantage of HD-DVD's is the ability to display in 1080p, and only newer sets just coming out and that cost alot are able to display in that high of a resolution. I'm sure it would look better than regular dvd though.

A repair tech came out to my house today, and would'nt you know it, the television acted fine. The discoloration in the bottom left became so small that its hardly even noticiable. So of course the tech did not see it. As far as the double vision gos, he blamed it on the signal that the cable company is sending out. Says its the same old analog signal, just being digitized by the digital cable box. So he pretty much said all was fine.
As far as the television blanking out when on zoom, and coming back on non-zoomed, he said that if there is a skip in the signal, or the signal is dropped momentarily, the television will default back to its original setting...so I dunno.

Bought my 955 just about two years ago, but I've only had it running for about 1.5 years. Just yesterday it began to develop a problem and it's rapidly degrading.

The problem began in the lower 10-20% of the screen: horizontal black lines stretch from one side of the screen to the other, and the lines widen as they near the bottom of the screen. This evening the same symptoms spread to the center of the screen.

I've tried slapping the TV at various places to see if it might be something loose, but have had no luck. It's not input-based: all inputs exhibit identical behaviour (I use RGB for my DVD player, Coax for my OTA HD, and S-Video for my DTV-Tivo).

Any ideas?

I'm guessing that I'll have to replace it, and I'm looking at some mid-level 50" plasmas (1080i max). How will their HD picture compare to the 955's (I think that the 955 has a breathtaking picture). Might I get a better SD picture? (I don't like SD on the 955)

BTW, what's the warranty on the 955? Something short of two years, I suppose.

Thanks.

I thought they had a 3 year parts warranty...i'm not sure though.

90 day labor, 1 year parts, 2 years for the tube.

http://www.docs.sony.com/release/TV_color90-1-2yr_warranty.pdf

I have had my tv for a couple of months now and have one Question

Should I power down the tv or leave it on standby? :rolleyes:

3w on standby...
270w power on...
according to Sony...

The reason I ask is because,
I have no way of telling that the TV is powered on if cable box is turned off first.

the screen is black (maybe a hint of it being on in complete darkness) hard to tell though

I run hdmi out of my 8300 hd box.

I was wondering if there is any downside to leaving it on standby.

Is it possible that leaving it standby could be better than switching on and off thousands of times in the TV's lifetime.

Thanks ahead of time for any help.

Sorry if I repeated myself

And by the way its an awesome TV - HD is beautiful

I think it only gos on standby WHEN you turn it off. if you leave it on, its just on, even though the screen is black.
Mine does the same thing. If you turn the cable box off first, the screen gos black, but then i have to press "tv" on the remote, the press power again to turn off the tv. Its wack. My old non-hd box used to turn them both on when i pressed the power button once.
I would not recommend leaving the tv on at all times. It probably would wear out the tv by being on all the time. Plus, when you turn it on, it degausses to remove any magnetic discoloration that may be present.

I've had this set for a little over a year. During the original warranty period (didn't go for the extended warranty because it took 3-4 visits to get them to finally correct the problem under warranty), I had service come out and adjust the color in the lower corners to get rid of blue and green tinges there (was especially visible when a score ticker running such as ESPN2's). Was good for several months, now I am noticing green on the left middle, blue on the right middle. It's higher up on the screen than the previous discoloration, so it's not visible on the typical tickers -- only on the white type of Comcast's TV Guide On Screen. During regular viewing, it's OK. Should I cope with this or try to learn now how to correct it through the service menus? I'd classify myself as an intermediate when it comes to this type of work. Not a total noob, but I have some learning to do before I delve into the menus. Partially, that's why I am asking now, and also wondering if this problem is only going to get worse/deeper/wider in other people's experience?

I've had my 36XS955 for about 2 years now and only recently noticed that my picture does not go all the way to the bezel (about 1/8" short on all 4 edges in both regular and HDTV <well onlys sides in HDTV>). I only noticed this because the news banner on one of my morning network news shows (others seemed ok) was cut off on the bottom a little which got me closer to the set.

Have I just not noticed this from the beginining or am I potentially experiencing a problem with the set (I've had computer monitors slowly shrink their viewable screen over time in the past which is what has me concerned)?

Thanks in advance for any input.

On the 8300HD box I have been able to clear the HDMI HDCP handshake problem by changing the input on the cable box to video source auxiliary and back again and the set sees HDMI... This works most of the time. Also, I make the 8300 power up channel an SD channel then go to HD. I turn my audio amp on first, then the TV and then the 8300... My 8300 uses the latest SARA firmware. Another work around for the Sony digital world!

Anyone know how to disable the auto aspect in the service menu? My 16:9 signals are being letterboxed incorrectly. Vertical height is off and the picture is squashed. Using my vertical stretch on my Directv remote corrects the sat hd image but on dvd 16:9 vertical stretch using the Sony remote makes the vertical height too much and very distorted. I had a Toshiba 36hf73 that did not letterbox my signals and everthing was perfect. Any help would be appreciated. I looked through the service manual thread but did not see anything that helped.

Has anyone here experienced issues where the audio on this set pops and cracks during certain broadcasts and more so during commercials. I’m trying to figure out how to eliminate these types of sounds from the speakers on my set.

I have a SA8300 HD that is feeding this set via RCA’s & Components.

Input would be appreciated as I haven’t found any threads directly addressing this issue/problem.

Has anyone here experienced issues where the audio on this set pops and cracks during certain broadcasts and more so during commercials. I’m trying to figure out how to eliminate these types of sounds from the speakers on my set.

I have a SA8300 HD that is feeding this set via RCA’s & Components.

Input would be appreciated as I haven’t found any threads directly addressing this issue/problem.

I only use digital audio with mine and have never had any problem like you describe. For OTA its native digital - STB uses the HDMI input, and DVD/HD file player I use component plus digital to receiver; also never a problem

Why don't you just try the HDMI out of the SA8300?

I just ordered a HDMI Cable male to male 28AWG - 6ft w/Ferrite Cores. Hopefully this will solve the problem. Thx

How much voltage does this TV require to operate? My TV stopped working yesterday and I just metered the voltage and its 108v which I know is really low. But in my experience is still high enough for most electronics to function properly. I just want to know if I should schedule a service call with the TV repair man to come fix my broken TV, or if I should just get on my landlord/electric company to fix the voltage drop problem.

I only use digital audio with mine and have never had any problem like you describe. For OTA its native digital - STB uses the HDMI input, and DVD/HD file player I use component plus digital to receiver; also never a problem

Why don't you just try the HDMI out of the SA8300?

Hi RalphArch,

I just installed the HDMI out from the SA8300 to the 36XS and am still hearing the hiss, pop from various channels normally during commericals. This isn't consistent but happens often enough to be annoying... Any other settings you can think of on the STB or TV that may help reduce this? FYI - My dvd player via components never outputs that hiss/pop/crack like when watching my STB.

I have a directv h20 and have had issues with the HDMI also. At times it will give me audio just the same noise you are hearing. I have to switch to component. Usually one or two reboots from the Directv box will fix it. Directv told me that that this tv has documented problems with their box and told me to use the component. Unfortunately HDMI gives me a sharper picture. Other then that and the incorrect format issues with dvd and satellite which I have fixed for satellite but haven't figured out for my dvd player, I like the set.

Hi RalphArch,

I just installed the HDMI out from the SA8300 to the 36XS and am still hearing the hiss, pop from various channels normally during commericals. This isn't consistent but happens often enough to be annoying... Any other settings you can think of on the STB or TV that may help reduce this? FYI - My dvd player via components never outputs that hiss/pop/crack like when watching my STB.

Sorry the HDMI cable didn't fix it for you. I can't think of any special settings I have - and I don't have hisses and pops either on the HDMI feed or when using the OTA ATSC antenna input for local DTV (when using the TV for audio- although I don't have a problem when feeding receiver from STB either)


STB is a Dish network VIP211 and uses the HDMI input- audio out on STB set to Dolby Digital/PCM with compression set to line mode

The TV is set to True Surround on now but has been set to simulated most recently

Can you check how your audio sounds if fed to a receiver? If you had hisses and pops that way it would rule out the tv and indicate your STB was source.

Sorry the HDMI cable didn't fix it for you. I can't think of any special settings I have - and I don't have hisses and pops either on the HDMI feed or when using the OTA ATSC antenna input for local DTV (when using the TV for audio- although I don't have a problem when feeding receiver from STB either)


STB is a Dish network VIP211 and uses the HDMI input- audio out on STB set to Dolby Digital/PCM with compression set to line mode

The TV is set to True Surround on now but has been set to simulated most recently

Can you check how your audio sounds if fed to a receiver? If you had hisses and pops that way it would rule out the tv and indicate your STB was source.

That is a good idea.. I will turn on my receiver when the popping/cracking/hissing occurs to see if it produces the same sound. The receiver is being fed audio via optical. I'll let you know how it goes.

2 days ago the remote quick functioning. No matter which button I press, the red light on the remote unter TV Function section. I do not remember if this was happening before. On the tv itself the only buttons that work are on-off, menu, and the up-down on the menu. None of the volume or channel changing buttons work on the tv itself.

HELP PLEASE!!

This board doesnt seem to be that active anymore. I went through all the posts took me a couple of days but learned a lot.

I just bought a used 36XS955 off of CraigsList and at this point just have it in my garage until I can find a piece of furniture to put it on. I hooked up an external antenna and was very pleased with the picture quality of terrestial stations. This is just in my garage!!!!

I already own a 34XBR960n but wanted something with more screen area for the regular broadcasts.

The 36XS955 I just bought has a build date of Feb05 and was made in PA.
I was wondering where most of these 36" TVs were built? My 34XBR960n was built in Mexico. I have an older (12yr) 32XBR100 also built in Mexico.

I did find an interesting furniture place online www.racksandstands.com which gives a wide selection of TV stands which will fit the 36" TV.

I love this set. By far the best PQ in HD I have seen. I keep looking at CC and BB at the LCD and Plasma displays and frankly I am not impressed. I have been spoiled by this set and now I am looking at getting a used 40xbr800 for the media room in the house that we are having b built this Spring.

2 days ago the remote quick functioning. No matter which button I press, the red light on the remote unter TV Function section. I do not remember if this was happening before. On the tv itself the only buttons that work are on-off, menu, and the up-down on the menu. None of the volume or channel changing buttons work on the tv itself.

HELP PLEASE!!

Have you taken the batteries out, waited, and put them back in the remote?

Have you taken the batteries out, waited, and put them back in the remote?

Thanks for responding, SH!

Yes I have taken them out and replaced them with numerous new ones to assure that the batteries were not the problem. I do have a Sony DVD player and Home Theater receiver which can still be shut off with the remote. That is the only function I have been able to use on the remote.

Have you tried pushing the function button first? First push the button that says TV and then see if it works. It sounds like you have the remote in a different mode right now. Just an idea.........

I love this set. By far the best PQ in HD I have seen. I keep looking at CC and BB at the LCD and Plasma displays and frankly I am not impressed. I have been spoiled by this set and now I am looking at getting a used 40xbr800 for the media room in the house that we are having b built this Spring.

The have a couple of these listed on Ebay right now........

Have you tried pushing the function button first? First push the button that says TV and then see if it works. It sounds like you have the remote in a different mode right now. Just an idea.........

Yes I have. I'm not sure if this happened before, but any button I push on the remote lights up the TV function button. Is this supposed to happen? Also, on the TV itself, the on-off button works. Under the cover the only buttons that work are the menu button and the menu directional buttons. The channel up-down buttons don't work and neither do the volume up-down buttons. I can get video when viewing through the vcr. Of course there's no HD then.

Hi Every body.

I am new to the forum and i am impress with the wealth of knowledge posted here. My question is very simple. I am trying to buy a kd-36XS955 because everybody seem to love it. I have been looking on ebay and craigslist without much luck. I live in Denver and will love to find a use kd-36XS955 in good shape.
Thanks

Yes I have. I'm not sure if this happened before, but any button I push on the remote lights up the TV function button. Is this supposed to happen? Also, on the TV itself, the on-off button works. Under the cover the only buttons that work are the menu button and the menu directional buttons. The channel up-down buttons don't work and neither do the volume up-down buttons. I can get video when viewing through the vcr. Of course there's no HD then.

The remote's behavior is normal.
The front panel volume, channel and TV/video buttons should work.
Can you enter the menu and access inputs or channels there?
Regardless, that doesn't sound right.
A service call may be in your future.

The remote's behavior is normal.
The front panel volume, channel and TV/video buttons should work.
Can you enter the menu and access inputs or channels there?
Regardless, that doesn't sound right.
A service call may be in your future.

Oliver, here's a strange one I just discovered. If I press and HOLD one of the right 6 buttons on the tv, I can use all funtions on the remote. Figure that one out! :-)

Oliver, here's a strange one I just discovered. If I press and HOLD one of the right 6 buttons on the tv, I can use all funtions on the remote. Figure that one out! :-)

I take it you've already unplugged the TV from the mains for approx. 30 minutes or so, to let the TV reset to its defaults?

Somewhere in the user manaul are instructions for how to reset the TV. My 27" sony was acting funny, and that fixed it.

I take it you've already unplugged the TV from the mains for approx. 30 minutes or so, to let the TV reset to its defaults?

Yes, just to be safe I left it unplugged all night with no results.

Yes, just to be safe I left it unplugged all night with no results.

Cheap fix would be a remote replacement. A more expensive fix would be a visit from the Sony Service Tech but may be necessary. BTW, most any Sony remote will work, and if you've got another one or can borrow one try it out first just to see if it works.

Somewhere in the user manaul are instructions for how to reset the TV. My 27" sony was acting funny, and that fixed it.

I did try that but the only way you could get the remote to work was by pressing and holding down one of the volume up-down or channel up-down buttons on the tv. Which actually is the main problem. The remote works but only if you press one of those buttons on the tv WHILE you use it. I would give a crisp 5 dollar bill to find out an answer to THAT one. :-)

I did try that but the only way you could get the remote to work was by pressing and holding down one of the volume up-down or channel up-down buttons on the tv. Which actually is the main problem. The remote works but only if you press one of those buttons on the tv WHILE you use it. I would give a crisp 5 dollar bill to find out an answer to THAT one. :-)

Seriously, does anyone have any ideas about this?

Seriously, does anyone have any ideas about this?

Can't give you much tech support on this issue, only to say you're probably going to need one to solve/fix this problem.

Can't give you much tech support on this issue, only to say you're probably going to need one to solve/fix this problem.

Darn, I was hoping to avoid that issue by posting here. Thanks for guiding me to the inevitable.

Anyone know how to disable the auto aspect in the service menu? My 16:9 signals are being letterboxed incorrectly. Vertical height is off and the picture is squashed. Using my vertical stretch on my Directv remote corrects the sat hd image but on dvd 16:9 vertical stretch using the Sony remote makes the vertical height too much and very distorted. I had a Toshiba 36hf73 that did not letterbox my signals and everthing was perfect. Any help would be appreciated. I looked through the service manual thread but did not see anything that helped.

I had same problem. I dont know how to disable it but if the disc is anamorphic or enhanced set dvd player to 16/9 tv even though its a 4/3. It says this in tv manual.

Hello, I have an lg lda-511 hooked up to a sony kd-36xs955 hd tube tv. I have done lots of experimenting with the the set up. Im not sure what I like best , having the dvd upconvert or the tv. Every resolution on the dvd is a little different and does some weird things with the aspect ratio (changes size slightly, cant upconvert 720/1080 a 4:3 disc with out squashing it, colors are different) Having dvd upconvert the pictures blacks look better but are much darker. Having tv up convert by it self the blacks have like splotches or artifacts and if I look close I can see horizontal lines on the screen. Any opinions would be appreciated.
Thanks

I have the opportunity to get a 36XS955 from a closeout store. The only problem is that its a floor model, and according to the manager it has been out on the floor for about 5 months. This means that it has probably been on 12 hours a day for 5 months (approx. 1350 hours). Is this too much wear and tear on the tube to consider? I didn't see any burn in or anything, but that is a long time to be on like that.

The set itself is in decent shape (a few scuffs on the trim that I wont see in my cabinet), but it didn't include the remote or box. I was quoted a price of $500 with a 30 day warranty. Does Sony still give you a warranty if the TV is a floor model? The stores warranty doesn't really mean much to me since they can't get the parts for it anyway, I'd more than likely have to go through Sony anyway.

Since these sets are REALLY hard to get, I was considering it (that SFP tube looked so nice), is this a good deal or should I just get the NIB XBR970?