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?

That's pretty cheap IMO, but what store are you dealing with? If it's CC, then their 5-Year Warranty is top notch. Yes, parts are still available for this TV, and ANY repair facility will most likely have to order a part should you require a repair. As for the missing remote...ask them to order one for you and it's a deal. Maybe they'll bite, but if not, then try to get them to reduce the price even more. Sony remotes are not that special and can be bought on Ebay should you need one. BTW, then 16:9 HD display is about 34" diagonal, and you'll be able to view most SD on 3:4 fullscreen.

That's pretty cheap IMO, but what store are you dealing with? If it's CC, then their 5-Year Warranty is top notch. Yes, parts are still available for this TV, and ANY repair facility will most likely have to order a part should you require a repair. As for the missing remote...ask them to order one for you and it's a deal. Maybe they'll bite, but if not, then try to get them to reduce the price even more. Sony remotes are not that special and can be bought on Ebay should you need one. BTW, then 16:9 HD display is about 34" diagonal, and you'll be able to view most SD on 3:4 fullscreen.

ABC Warehouse, it's a local chain (Michigan and surrounding area). I checked online and I can get an official Sony replacement remote for $35, which isnt too bad (although I'll see if the store will cough one up). So is the 1300 hours wear on the tube all that bad?

I checked CC, BB, and the other big box stores and they had nothing. There's another 36XS955 at the ABC in Findlay Ohio if someone in that area is looking for one. :)

I can't imagine not getting that set, even used but at that price, over a 970. The 970 may be nice - but the 36XS955 with SFP is superb and offers so much more. Think of the beautiful slideshows in 4:3 off the memory stick - the much improved audio with subwoofer (I use my receiver when watching a surround movie but for casual viewing use the sets audio - sometimes even when watching 5.1 surround I will use the set's audio and manually balance volumes to get a better sounding center)

Don't know of the warrentee - I got one when I bought at SONY Outlet with my refurb. Since the SONY warrentee cost is based on what you pay it was cheaper than what others paid for same set non-refurb but I got 5 years in home cheap.

Maybe you can get one at Sony style or give them a call.

Overall on a floor model my experience has been great - Not the SONY but I got an RCA floor model MM36100 that could have been on torch in store for a year. It is still going great 7 years later with fine video and audio - never any service at all in that time

I can't imagine not getting that set, even used but at that price, over a 970. The 970 may be nice - but the 36XS955 with SFP is superb and offers so much more. Think of the beautiful slideshows in 4:3 off the memory stick - the much improved audio with subwoofer (I use my receiver when watching a surround movie but for casual viewing use the sets audio - sometimes even when watching 5.1 surround I will use the set's audio and manually balance volumes to get a better sounding center)

Don't know of the warrentee - I got one when I bought at SONY Outlet with my refurb. Since the SONY warrentee cost is based on what you pay it was cheaper than what others paid for same set non-refurb but I got 5 years in home cheap.

Maybe you can get one at Sony style or give them a call.

Overall on a floor model my experience has been great - Not the SONY but I got an RCA floor model MM36100 that could have been on torch in store for a year. It is still going great 7 years later with fine video and audio - never any service at all in that time

Alright you talked me into it. I'm going to go down to the store today and do a thorough check on the set. What kind of things should I be looking for? I'm going to check for Burn-In (if the set has been doing 16:9 all that time it may have "ghost bars" on the top and bottom), screen brightness, screen scratches, and color purity issues. I only saw it doing a 16:9 HD broadcast, but that looked great. I want to see it do some 4:3 SDTV stuff though first.

Look Tempest, it's difficult to judge TV's in a store setting but beleive me when I say you are hard to go wrong at $800. I paid 4X that much for my Sony 40XBR and I'm still a happy camper, Good luck.

I just got this TV and it is beautiful except for the extremely ugly "streaking" in the TV. There is a thread already about this. A bunch of users seem to have the problem. Have we figured out yet if it's a problem with all of them and some people just don't notice it? Or is there a fix or something? I am a bit disappointed in my purchase because of this.

I just got this TV and it is beautiful except for the extremely ugly "streaking" in the TV. There is a thread already about this. A bunch of users seem to have the problem. Have we figured out yet if it's a problem with all of them and some people just don't notice it? Or is there a fix or something? I am a bit disappointed in my purchase because of this.

Extremely contadictory, how can a TV be beautiful w/a ugly ass streak across the screen?? Anyway, most people/owners I've read over the various Forums do not have a streak across their screens. As this TV has been seen in action in the store itself, I doubt you'll experience this problem at home. BTW, do not try to setup this TV alone...get some friends to help as it's one heavy akward mamma-jama. Is the stand included as this is important?

Extremely contadictory, how can a TV be beautiful w/a ugly ass streak across the screen??

Because the image looks fantastic and the hd it displays is amazing, but there's still a huge streak on it. This is a problem with a decent chunk of the forum members here, not just me.

Well I picked up the TV today ($750 with a 5 year warranty that covers parts/labor and in home service from Sony). WHAT A HEAVY BEAST!!!! It took me and my father to move the thing and I swear we barely made it to the entertainment center (I felt every one of those 240 pounds!). Now that it's there it looks really nice. I tested it with Radiant Silvergun (Saturn/S-Video), Legend of Zelda TP (Wii/Component), and Star Wars: ANH (DVD/Component). Everything looked AMAZING! The 4:3 mode is HUGE and the 16:9 mode is large too. I'm very happy...

Now I have to figure out how to get regular TV stations to show up on it. I plugged it into my Digital cable box (via coax), but I'm not getting a signal for some reason. I may not have the right input selected, and since I don't have a remote I'm having trouble finding things in the menus (the remote is on its way though, they're going to pay for it too!). I know I need a different box to get HDTV signals, but you'd think I should get SOMETHING from the digital box or over the air. Like I said, I think I probably have it on the wrong input or something.

Interestingly I brought along my good old NES to test if the TV had the dreaded color smearing problem that DaddyLongLegs mentioned (thankfully it didn't). However the NES looked terrible on the TV, I guess HDTV's aren't meant to do composite. Thankfully I have a separate TV for all my older systems.

One question I do have is how much venting should I have around the TV? It's in an entertainment center, and it's a pretty tight fight (an inch on the sides and 4 inches on the top), but the back is open and the TV is about a hand span away from the wall. Is this going to be enough air circulation?

Is it possible the streaking problem is literally just dirt on the INSIDE of the TV? I looked at the glass and the front cover of the TV isn't the tube, there's a glass front then the tube, so maybe I can take the front bezel off and clean the insides? Is this ridiculous?

Tempest, if you want to just watch some TV, you can connect directly to ANT w/the coax cable direct from the wall outlet. This will be the analog channels 1-99.

BTW, congrats on the new Sony. I paid almost $500 for my CC 5-Year Warranty, so I think you made one hell of a good deal.

Congrats Tempest - Hope you get many years out of it and never have to use that warrentee

Cajie boy is right - hook it up directly to the cable. Since you have digital service you will also get your local broadcast stations in clear QAM on the tuner - so you should have a number of HD stations available directly on you set.

Congrats Tempest - Hope you get many years out of it and never have to use that warrentee

Cajie boy is right - hook it up directly to the cable. Since you have digital service you will also get your local broadcast stations in clear QAM on the tuner - so you should have a number of HD stations available directly on you set.

Ok I'll go try that. I wonder why it doesn't like my digital cable box though?

Incidentally, if someone here in the Michigan area is looking for a floor model XS955 that they can probably get a similar deal on, the ABC Warehouses in Findlay, Cadillac, and Traverse City each have one in stock. Looks like one already disappeared from the TC store (they had 2 in stock yesterday):

http://www.abcwarehouse.com/product_catalog/pc_proddetails.asp~prod_id~24945

Tempest, if you want to just watch some TV, you can connect directly to ANT w/the coax cable direct from the wall outlet. This will be the analog channels 1-99.

BTW, congrats on the new Sony. I paid almost $500 for my CC 5-Year Warranty, so I think you made one hell of a good deal.

I have the CC warranty. Does it cover this annoying streaking problem? Since they don't cover burn in, I doubt it.

I was just playing around with the TV and I have a few questions:

1. How do I turn the channel/input labels off? I like them to pop up when I switch inputs or go to a different channel, but they stay up all the time (there's one for the channel like NBC 4.1 and one for the Time). I assume this is an option in one of the menus.

2. How do I route the sound to my home theater system? On my old TV I just plugged a stereo RCA cable into the Audio Out ports and plugged it into my DVD players Audio In ports. This doesn't seem to be working on this TV. Perhaps I'm using the wrong Audio Out port? The speakers in the TV are nice, but I'd rather have it go through my surround sound system.

3. Optical Audio question: How come when I hook up the cable (TOSLINK) I only get sound on the HD channels? Is there a way to make it give me sound on the regular SD channels?

4. How come some HD channels put black boxes on the left and right sides of the picture instead of only the top and bottom? Is this just something to do with the way the channel is being sent out? For example, the local HD channel 4 has the boxes on all sides, but the HD Fox News channel is full widescreen (boxes on top and bottom).

I have the 34" model, but many things should be similar.

1. The labels are generally toggled by the remote's Display button.

2. I don't use the Audio Out, but the manual implies that you set Speaker to Off, so that you can then set Audio Out to Variable or Fixed (through the Menu).

3. The TOSLINK connection is only for decoding sound received through HD channels. All the rest must pass through Audio Out.

4. Some content on HD channels is in SD, so you'll see the pillarboxes left and right. Use the remote's Zoom function in this case to get rid of them.

Well I was able to get sound out my surround sound system. One problem was that the HD channel I had the TV on doesnt have any sound ATM for some reason (I tested this with the TV's speakers as well). That doesn't help when you're trying to hook up audio cables... I also had to set the sound to Fixed rather than Variable. Whats the difference? As far as I can tell fixed just means it wont let me adjust the volume on the TV (but since I'm going through my SS system it doesnt matter). What does Variable do?

Any way to remove the labels with the controls on the set? The remote wont be here for a week or so...

With digital cable your setup sounds strange. Best is to use the HDMI input - that will give you sound and digital video into the set. Go to receiver directly from cable box digital out. Second option would be to use the component out of box into tv

Postage stamped 4:3 material on a HD digital channel is because the set autoswitches to 16:9 mode when it senses a 1080i or 720p signal. No way around it - even the pan and scan option is defeated when HD signal is sensed )(my zoom has gross overscan) is to go into menu (wait for your remote but you should be able to do it from the front panel) other than switching the source output to 480i (sounds like you don't have an HD dgital cable box - and if you only have the raw signal OTA or QAM the source obviously can'tbe switched to 480i/p) - but then that (SD)content will look great on the tv if you can switch to 480i or use s-video

As a compromise hook up the s-video out of your cable box along with audio and use s-video for sd content - and the tv tuner qam out for HD shows

With digital cable your setup sounds strange. Best is to use the HDMI input - that will give you sound and digital video into the set. Go to receiver directly from cable box digital out. Second option would be to use the component out of box into tv

As a compromise hook up the s-video out of your cable box along with audio and use s-video for sd content - and the tv tuner qam out for HD shows

You are correct, I don't have a HD Cable Box yet, just the Digital one I was using before. Therefore it doesn't have an HDMI port, or even S-Video (there's a hole for it but nothing in there)! I need to call my cable company on Monday. Once I get the right box, I assume I just have the cable from the wall go to my new box and then have an HDMI cable from the box to the TV.


Postage stamped 4:3 material on a HD digital channel is because the set autoswitches to 16:9 mode when it senses a 1080i or 720p signal. No way around it - even the pan and scan option is defeated when HD signal is sensed )(my zoom has gross overscan) is to go into menu (wait for your remote but you should be able to do it from the front panel) other than switching the source output to 480i (sounds like you don't have an HD dgital cable box - and if you only have the raw signal OTA or QAM the source obviously can'tbe switched to 480i/p) - but then that (SD)content will look great on the tv if you can switch to 480i or use s-video

So once I get my remote, I can switch the SD channels to 480i and they'll look just like they would on a normal TV? That would be nice since at the moment they look alright, but not great. I hope that is something that is easy to do, because it would be a pain to constantly have to switch the input back and forth when I want to switch between HD and SD.

I assume everything will be much easier once I get my remote. For now I'd just be happy if I could turn off the screen labels, but I dont see a menu option for that.

So once I get my remote, I can switch the SD channels to 480i and they'll look just like they would on a normal TV? That would be nice since at the moment they look alright, but not great. I hope that is something that is easy to do, because it would be a pain to constantly have to switch the input back and forth when I want to switch between HD and SD.
.

The standard def channels you are already getting via clear qam should already look great.

For example in my area the abc sub is broadcast OTA with three subchannels - the HD, an SD radar weather. and a local point SD. Unless you are having a cable company strip subchannels you should have these now - no switching required.

The postage stamp and letterbox comments only apply to 1080i and 720p subchannels

The need to switch depends on your equipment. I have dish network and they are kind of laggards in not passing native signal like my old COMCASTHD box.

So I had no choice but either change the box to 480i or watch SD in a postage stamp, or use an imperfect zoom, or use the S-video input. So Switching was required no matter what - Its just do you want to switch the input to set or switch the STB output.

About one week ago Dish started sending SDV and HDV simultaneously as separate channels for their HD channels so I am ok now without switching - just need to choose a different channel to watch a SD program on NBC/ABC/CBS/Fox versus an HP program - or watch it postage stamped
However a

Is it possible the streaking problem is literally just dirt on the INSIDE of the TV? I looked at the glass and the front cover of the TV isn't the tube, there's a glass front then the tube, so maybe I can take the front bezel off and clean the insides? Is this ridiculous?

You said you were returning it in the "streaks" thread, but in case you don't, I just wanted to assure you there is no "front layer" of glass. I know this because I watched them replace the tube in my house. The glass you can touch is the tube itself.

I picked one of these TV,s up yesterday, I love it :) They are heavy thats for sure but the picture is really nice :D

Where did you pick one up? Third-party resale I assume

Yes, I found one that someone didnt want anymore because it was to heavy for them to move :) I snaped it up really fast :D Not a mark or scratch on it :D

Yes I got one too in addition to my 34XBR960N off CraigsList for probably a third of the retail price. It is in great condition and no problems. Alls I need is a few years use off of it and then it becomes throw away if I have any problems.

Hey, I've been having an unfortunate problem lately. Everytime I turn on the TV, it tries to power on, but it appears to fail. The power light blinks and eventually stops w/o the TV turning on. The only way to turn the TV on is to unplug it, plug it in and then turn it on.

Any hints on what could be wrong? I'd hate to have to replace this TV since I've only had it for a year. :(

I found this thread, guess it's a common issue:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=650457

i have this tv for 18months now and no problems what so ever,i have had it not turn on like you stated only once and unplugged it, and no problems since.i read somewhere sony uses a linex code/computrer boot secquence and just needs a forced reboot once in a while.by the wat also have a sony 50"rptv,this tv is by far a better picture in hd or sd.

Tempest, When you get your remote, you'll also want to do a "channel search". go in the menu and go to channels and hit, i think "digital channel search" or somthing like that. It takes about an hour, but it will automatically find sd channels, as well as digital channels, which broadcast the same as sd channels, but its alot clearer. You can also get local HD channels this way too. My NBC HD channel is 87.2 and there are others out there too. But You'll want to bypass the cable box and run a coax straight from the wall to the tv. After you get a HD box, run component cables, or HDMI from the box to the TV and use vid7 for that video source. Then, you can switch over to "tv" and view all sd channels in full screen if you want.
What's awsome, is that on mine, (i beleive this is a glitch) when I go to cirtain digital channels, I can view what other people are viewing on their PPV box or DVR box. Its weird. I see them selecting menus and crap too. Its awsome.

Hi all,

Sorry if this is an old problem...I didn't see anything anywhere.

Is there any way to reset the HDCP handshake on the 34XS955?

A while ago, my TiVo Series3 decided that I didn't have permission to watch non-basic channels over HDMI.

I assumed this was a problem with the TiVo, but now I have a PS3, and when I try and use HDMI with it, I get a blank screen. According to Sony, this would be an HDCP issue.

If there's no way for me to do it, is it possible to pay someone to come and use the service codes to do it?

Thanks in advance...

Hey Everyone:

Well I have finally made the plunge. I upgraded my system to a Yamaha 661 receiver, Oppo 981 DVD, and am getting Directv HD (with HD DVR) as we speak. I just set up the Oppo. My TV us the 36xs955. My hookups are as follows:

HDMI from Oppo DVD to receiver
HDMI from HD DVR to receiver
HDMI from receiver to TV

I have heard the Oppo would upscale better than the TV. It says in the OPPO manual that I should set the OPPO to match the tv's native resolution for best picture. It gives examples, but does not have an example of an HDTV CRT. Should I set the OPPO at 1080i? If I set the Oppo at 1080i what adjustments need to be made to the TV (for example, the DRC modes, etc). Will the tv then be operating in 1080i from the DVD, or less (if less, and the DVD is on 1080i, then the tv would be downconverting it).

Thanks for your help.

Hi all.

Thinking about selling my 36xs955. I've had it for two years with no problems.
Hands down the best HD picture anywhere, but I just bought a 58" plasma and sit too far away from this TV to appreciate the amazing quality.

I live in Queens, NY, have the stand and three years left on the extended warranty from PC Richards.

Please PM me if interested.

Thanks

Hi,

I've had my KD-36XS955 for exactly two years. Bought it from sonystyle-com directly for a pretty good price and no extended warranties. The TV has functioned flawlessly and has been connected to an HD cable box the entire time until yesterday when I purchased a sony KDL-46V2500. Frankly, I like the picture better on the 36, but too late for that now.

Anyway, my problem is with the 36 in. KD-36XS955 . I'm changing channels directly on the TV now, whereas before I was really just changing channels on the cable box. So, really the TV has never had its channels changed, just left on channel 3 or whatever and changed channels with the cable box. So then, now that I have it connected directly to the coax cable from the wall, I use the TV to change channels and when I change channels on the TV the speakers pop between each channel. Loud and annoying. Even when the volume is all the way down the speakers still make the same popping sound. It sounds like a two beat noise and sort of hissy, dop--da, every channel and input change, dop--da. It seems like the interference or something? The speakers also pop when changing inputs, just switching them really using the remote.

I cant really explain it better, it's really annoying. I know something must be wrong. Everything else seems fine, just that popping sound.

Anyone have any info? Thanks

Hi,

Me again, I want to update my findings so far. To recap, the popping sound, wup--pa, every time a channel is changed, wup--pa. I think that describes it better than before. And it's only from the right speaker. And no matter what the volume settings. So I think that tells me some sort of interference is going on, or something got blown or crossed somehow. Wup--pa every time a channel is changed or even when input is changed too.

So, what do I do. I called Sony, out of warranty, no help. I called a TV repairman, $100 up front and go from there. Damn!!!

Any help out there? I was thinking about taking the front plastic off the TV and see if I can see the speaker and maybe it just has a problem. But, I would think a professional TV person would have heard of this problem before and know right where to go first?? Anyone??

Oh well, Thanks for any help.

safsurfer

I would not advise going into the Sony to fix it yourself as you could really mess thing up far worse. You saved money by not getting the Extended Warranty, and with this roll of the dice you lost. Call a Sony Service Tech.

Thanks for the advice cajieboy. Are you a Sony service tech or do you know any? I'm on the Space Coast as well in Indialantic, funny.

Have you heard of this problem before? Or on any other TV's before? It sounds like the speaker is getting a charge whenever the channels are changed, like an overload somewhere has occurred and blew a diode or something and now signal can get into the speaker when it shouldn't be??? I don't know, just hypothesizing.

Could this be my problem with the speaker popping??? I saw it on the internet as a culprit in many ways.

Thanks for the advice cajieboy. Are you a Sony service tech or do you know any? I'm on the Space Coast as well in Indialantic, funny.

Have you heard of this problem before? Or on any other TV's before? It sounds like the speaker is getting a charge whenever the channels are changed, like an overload somewhere has occurred and blew a diode or something and now signal can get into the speaker when it shouldn't be??? I don't know, just hypothesizing.

No, I've never heard of the problem you described, and can't really guess what could be the culprit. Where did you buy your TV?

Anyone own a HD A1 with this set? In my manual it states that setting the player to 4:3 will fill the entire screen for 4:3 material. Unfortunately it does a postage stamp. I can zoom it to fill the screen but just a annoyance for me. I wish I could figure out how to disable the auto aspect controls on this set. I would rather let the players or my H20 box do the formatting. When my HD players starts to play I can see the screen expand but then the tv kicks in and adjusts the format.

Hey Everyone:

Well I have finally made the plunge. I upgraded my system to a Yamaha 661 receiver, Oppo 981 DVD, and am getting Directv HD (with HD DVR) as we speak. I just set up the Oppo. My TV us the 36xs955. My hookups are as follows:

HDMI from Oppo DVD to receiver
HDMI from HD DVR to receiver
HDMI from receiver to TV

I have heard the Oppo would upscale better than the TV. It says in the OPPO manual that I should set the OPPO to match the tv's native resolution for best picture. It gives examples, but does not have an example of an HDTV CRT. Should I set the OPPO at 1080i? If I set the Oppo at 1080i what adjustments need to be made to the TV (for example, the DRC modes, etc). Will the tv then be operating in 1080i from the DVD, or less (if less, and the DVD is on 1080i, then the tv would be downconverting it).

Thanks for your help.

Let the player do the upscaling. DRC is not going to get you the results that the Oppo is going to give you. I had a Zenith dvb318 to this set which gave me great results. I know have my HD D1 which gives me better results on SD DVD material.
Set the player to 1080i.

No, I've never heard of the problem you described, and can't really guess what could be the culprit. Where did you buy your TV?

I got the TV directly from sonystyle-com, 2 years and 1 month ago! It's got to be something simple I'm thinking?? The TV, KD-36xs955, works perfectly otherwise!?! And I think I can just keep on using the TV the way it is, I think? Unless the popping noise is hurting the TV more than it already is? Otherwise, the picture and sound are perfect, it's just that popping sound, wup--pa, every channel change.

New discovery, if I turn the speakers off in the menu configuration screen, then it gos away, you can't hear anything at all though either when watching TV. Oh well, just thought I would pass on if it means anything. Remember the wup--pa, happens even when the volume is turned down, and the wup--pa volume itself is always the same and does not change with volume. So I think that means it is not coming from the volume driving mechanism, whatever that ??

Any help any body???

Thanks safsurfer

Thanks Theroys88

Quick question: Last night I was watching a show on TV and the TV and sound turned off. I turned the TV back on, and the sound came on with it. This happened a couple more times after that. Here is my setup:

Yammy 661 receiver
Sony 36sx955 HDTV (CRT, but excellent pq)
Directv HD DVR (HR20-100)
Oppo 981 DVD (was off at the time)

I have the Oppo and the DVR connected to the receiver via HDMI. The receiver then connects to the TV via HDMI (TV only has one HDMI input). I am waiting for new speakers to be delivered, so the speakers I have connected to the receiver are pretty crappy (old HTIB speakers) but they work (8ohms). The show I was watching was from a recording on the DVR. The DVR did not turn off, in fact it seemed to be still feeding the receiver. I found this odd, as the TV power is hooked into the DVR so I can turn off the DVR and TV with a single remote click. I have all of this hooked into a surge protector, which is hooked into the wall (a single outlet). The other outlet is used for the cheapy powered sub. Do you think it was too much power being drawn from that outlet (if so, then I will buy another power strip and connect the receiver and the sub to it, and leave the rest on the existing strip), or is there something else coming into play here?

Why mention the sound in above discussion? Sounds like you are getting a random IR turn-off signal to the TV. I have never seen this

Why mention the sound in above discussion? Sounds like you are getting a random IR turn-off signal to the TV. I have never seen this

because the sound is coming from the Satellite to the DVR to the receiver. If the tv is turned off, I should still get sound (not using the tv speakers, using speakers hooked up to the receiver). In addition, if the tv turns off via rf, i.e. the DVR remote, then the DVR should turn off too (the tv power is into the DVR, so the tv turns off only when the DVR is turned off). I don't know, just seems strange. Will wait and see if it happens again.

Anyone have an HTPC connected to this TV via HDMI? On my set whenever I switch away from input 7 (the HDMI input) and then back the PC video doesn't come back. Can I assume this is an issue with the PC and not the TV?

Is there a way to skip the tuner input? I only use the two component inputs, so it's a pain to have to hit input 2x. :)

I figured it out - had to change the BIOS setting in the PC to always have the PC display to the TV first (instead of Auto).

Quick question: Last night I was watching a show on TV and the TV and sound turned off. I turned the TV back on, and the sound came on with it. This happened a couple more times after that. Here is my setup:

Yammy 661 receiver
Sony 36sx955 HDTV (CRT, but excellent pq)
Directv HD DVR (HR20-100)
Oppo 981 DVD (was off at the time)

I have the Oppo and the DVR connected to the receiver via HDMI. The receiver then connects to the TV via HDMI (TV only has one HDMI input). I am waiting for new speakers to be delivered, so the speakers I have connected to the receiver are pretty crappy (old HTIB speakers) but they work (8ohms). The show I was watching was from a recording on the DVR. The DVR did not turn off, in fact it seemed to be still feeding the receiver. I found this odd, as the TV power is hooked into the DVR so I can turn off the DVR and TV with a single remote click. I have all of this hooked into a surge protector, which is hooked into the wall (a single outlet). The other outlet is used for the cheapy powered sub. Do you think it was too much power being drawn from that outlet (if so, then I will buy another power strip and connect the receiver and the sub to it, and leave the rest on the existing strip), or is there something else coming into play here?

This set and the H20 has a hanshake issue with audio. I have had the same issue and called Sony and that is what they have told me. They told me to use component. I have my HD D1 connected to HDMI and have had no issues. I would use component with your satellite. I cannot tell any PQ difference between HDMI and component.

Quick question: Last night I was watching a show on TV and the TV and sound turned off. I turned the TV back on, and the sound came on with it. This happened a couple more times after that. Here is my setup:

Yammy 661 receiver
Sony 36sx955 HDTV (CRT, but excellent pq)
Directv HD DVR (HR20-100)
Oppo 981 DVD (was off at the time)

I have the Oppo and the DVR connected to the receiver via HDMI. The receiver then connects to the TV via HDMI (TV only has one HDMI input). I am waiting for new speakers to be delivered, so the speakers I have connected to the receiver are pretty crappy (old HTIB speakers) but they work (8ohms). The show I was watching was from a recording on the DVR. The DVR did not turn off, in fact it seemed to be still feeding the receiver. I found this odd, as the TV power is hooked into the DVR so I can turn off the DVR and TV with a single remote click. I have all of this hooked into a surge protector, which is hooked into the wall (a single outlet). The other outlet is used for the cheapy powered sub. Do you think it was too much power being drawn from that outlet (if so, then I will buy another power strip and connect the receiver and the sub to it, and leave the rest on the existing strip), or is there something else coming into play here?

This set and the H20 has a hanshake issue with audio. I have had the same issue and called Sony and that is what they have told me. They told me to use component. I have my HD D1 connected to HDMI and have had no issues. I would use component with your satellite. I cannot tell any PQ difference between HDMI and component.

thanks theroys....I havent had a problem again, although the background music in some shows seems much lower than normal. If I start having problems again, I will switch to component.

One semi-major problem I have with my set is the overscan when the zoom mode is selected (versus Full) for material on an HD signal

Generally I try this when receiving 4:3 material in an HD signal to avoid the postage stamp - but the zoom is so much overset that I normally just watch it off the s-video out which does provide accurate 4:3 for the signal.

Is there a simple service menu change (sort of like the type described in this thread for another Sony overscan problem (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10204858&&#post10204858) to change the amount of zoom?

In general the TV is so good stock that I am reluctant to fiddle with service menu changes but I would like to get a better zoom for either 4:3 or for watching some HD material when I don't care whether I see the sides or not and just want more HD on screen.

My Directv H20 sends all 4:3 material correctly. !6:9 material is letterboxed by the set but squashed. I set my H20 to vertical expand and perfect formatting for HD material. The auto
aspect can be disabled in the service menu. That is one thing I am having Chad turn off when
he calibrates the set. HD channels of course have the postage stamp for 4:3 material.

My Directv H20 sends all 4:3 material correctly. !6:9 material is letterboxed by the set but squashed. I set my H20 to vertical expand and perfect formatting for HD material. The auto
aspect can be disabled in the service menu. That is one thing I am having Chad turn off when
he calibrates the set. HD channels of course have the postage stamp for 4:3 material.


Thanks theroy88 - if this was in response to my post we have different problems. My set (fed either from my Dish box, or the Directtv or Comcast boxes or HD file player (Avel LP2) displays 16:9 HD material fine (and the set auto letter boxes per design for HD signals)

My only point or question was whether there is a simple service menu adjustment to the zoom so that when watching a postage stamped 4:3 show there could be less zooming to not loose so much of the 4:3 material as I do now. As it stands I lose too much and have to either watch in the postage stamp or switch input to s-video, losing some resolution and in my case going stereo only.

Not sure you can do anything with 4:3 material when watching a HD channel. For my regular Directv digital channels the material fills the entire screen. I will ask Chad in August when he comes and calibrates both of my sets.

Hi Guys,

I have had my 34KS955 for a couple of years now and it is really great. I just recently sold my surround setup and waiting for my new setup to arrive. So I hooked up the TV speakers, which I had never used before. They sound pretty good really, but I have a problem. I have an Oppo 981HD DVD player hooked up via HDMI to the video input 7. When I playback DVD's I get audio through the HDMI and all is well. When I playback Divx files I get no audio.

So I figured I would just hook up the analog RCA inputs from the DVD player to the Input 7 audio inputs under the HDMI port. Still nothing... so I hooked up some powered computer speakers to the DVD player RCA outputs and it is putting out audio just fine, so that means the TV is not accepting audio input on those RCA jacks.

Can anyone else with this TV tell me if it will playback analog audio on input 7 via HDMI? The manual indicates that when using DVI to HDMI cable, you have to use the RCA audio inputs, but when using HDMI to HDMI hookup the analog audio is unecessary. Is it possible that the TV disables the RCA inputs on Video Input 7 when it detects a true HDMI capable device, but enables them when it detects a DVI device?

I would go into your Oppo menu and disable the audio to HDMI. My D1 menu you can disable it. Glad you like the set. I am having Chad ISF mine in Aug. Not a perfect set but I am hopefull that Chad can work some magic. So far my Panasonic CT-wx54 has a better PQ. Calibrated both sets. I am hopeful that Chad can bring out this set's potential. So far it has not performed as expected.

Chad calibrated mine about a year ago and it made a noticeable difference!

I think audio circuitry in my set is messed up... I notice that the "fixed" output it very low... I have to crank my amp to max just to barely hear it. I hooked up a computer with DVI output to the set, and the analog inputs still didn't work. Time to call it in for service (I purchased a warranty with the set ).

Did you notice the set crushing blacks before Chad calibrated your set? I also noticed that the set doesn't have a noise reduction circuity per the specs via Sony website. I have noticed alot of noise on many channels compared to my Panasonic which cleans up the noise very well.

I noticed no black crush, but I did notice a green push and some geometry problems, which Chad fixed for me. The set should have some noise reduction settings, I would have to look at it to tell you where. I turned off as much of the video "enhancement" as I can because most of my sources are clean enough.

When this set it properly setup and calibrated it consistently produces a very realistic picture which is why I bought it.

I cannot find any noise reduction controls in any of the menu sections. I have gone through every menu section and haven't found it.

What is up everybody. Well I'm about 24 hours away on purchasing a 34xs955. The seller told me it was bought brand new last year with limited use. So it should still be under the Sony 2 year warranty. Plus he bought the extended warranty from Magnolia Hifi. Plus it comes with the $350 matching stand. All for $850. It has a few scuffs and cracks on the bottom/right of the exterior but other than that it looks amazing. I went today and it looked great.

You guys think this is a good deal? And what things should of I looked for when looking at this tv? I personally was impressed by the tv. It looked very taken care of. What do you guys think?

Streaks. They're more visible on screens of predominantly lights colors and can ruin your viewing experience like nothing else.

In other news, when I use the zoom feature on my TV to compensate for postage-stamp syndrome, the top and left side are one or two inches out of scan range. I know how to adjust overscan for the regular picture, but does anyone know a service code that adjusts the parameters of zoom?

I am new to the forum. I noticed that several people were looking to get there hands on this set. I have been a very proud owner of this set for just over a year. I recently purchased a new LCD HDTV and must let this one go. I am located in the Greater Cincinnati area and have the set on Craigslist. I have attached a link for those interested.

http://cincinnati.craigslist.org/ele/346363602.html

Thanks to all of you for your postings and insight into all things technical.

I've had my Sony KD-36xs955 for awhile now, but I'm just really starting to use it for HD more and more every day. What I've noticed is that anything put in 1080i or 720p mode (from multiple inputs wether upconverted or native HD) gets vertically cropped on the top and bottom. I believe the picture display's something around a 1.95:1 aspect ratio as films or content in 1.85 are slightly cropped, where anything in 1.77:1 is very noticible (ala where'd the top of their heads go?).

I've been into the service menu several times and can't seem to find anything to remedy this problem. Anyone have any thoughts? I'm pretty sure that the TV has done this from the get go... Could it be a defective tube possibly?

It might be your sat or cable box. I used to have Directv and the box was incorrectly formatting 16:9 material and squashing the picture. I have since switched to Comcast and the formatting is perfect. I used to use the vertical expand option and that fixed the problem. The only bummer is that I have lost HDMI on this set.

theroys88, were you able to defeat the auto-aspect ratio "feature" of this set for hi-def stations? I, too, am experiencing the squashed image problem. I'm not using an STB, but a CableCard. Thanks.

I would try getting a HD box from your cable company. If you do a vertical stretch on your remote it will be stretched and you have to do everytime you change channels. Try using a HD box. Keep me posted. I know the Scientific Atlantic box from Comcast does fine with this tv.

It might be your sat or cable box. I used to have Directv and the box was incorrectly formatting 16:9 material and squashing the picture. I have since switched to Comcast and the formatting is perfect. I used to use the vertical expand option and that fixed the problem. The only bummer is that I have lost HDMI on this set.

The problem is on every HD input. OTA channels, upconverted DVD's over HDMI and HD over component.

Set your dvd player to 16:9. As far as the OTA you have to go into the service menu and disable the auto aspect and I have never messed with that. Try a cable box and set your player to 16:9. That should solve your problem with at least 2 of your inputs.

I would try getting a HD box from your cable company. If you do a vertical stretch on your remote it will be stretched and you have to do everytime you change channels. Try using a HD box. Keep me posted. I know the Scientific Atlantic box from Comcast does fine with this tv.
Hrrrr. This is exactly what I wanted to avoid doing, though. The whole point of getting the CableCard was to provide a direct signal path to the TV without having to mess with another A/V component.

Isn't there a way to defeat the auto-aspect feature via the service menu? Wasn't that something your calibrator was going to do?

The TV will automatically go into 16:9 mode for 720p or 1080i content. The problem is you're watching 4:3 content that is then letterboxed by the station as 16:9. There is nothing you can do to get around that, except by watching the SD version of the station.

[QUOTE=fleggett]Hrrrr. This is exactly what I wanted to avoid doing, though. The whole point of getting the CableCard was to provide a direct signal path to the TV without having to mess with another A/V component.

Isn't there a way to defeat the auto-aspect feature via the service menu? Wasn't that something your calibrator was going to do?[/QUOTE


Chad did not need to do anything since I had switched to Comcast and found the box to be the fault. Email Chad Billheimer and he may give you the help you need to disable the auto aspect. I agree that it is a flaw in this set. Good luck.

The TV will automatically go into 16:9 mode for 720p or 1080i content. The problem is you're watching 4:3 content that is then letterboxed by the station as 16:9. There is nothing you can do to get around that, except by watching the SD version of the station.

There are several things I do to get 1080i or 720p 4:3 material out of a postage stamp

1. Watch a 480i feed out of the satellite box. I switch input to video 1 which I feed with s-video from box for this situation

2. Use the zoom in picture control - although the overscan is pretty bad. I havent looked into adjsuting the overscan in service menu

The TV will automatically go into 16:9 mode for 720p or 1080i content.
But...why? That's like making a car whose windshield wipers activate when the radio is turned on. What does one have to do with the other?

I purchased this TV expecting to see hi-def images in their full 1.33 glory, not squished so that probably 20-30% of the screen real-estate goes unused and what is used looks deformed.

And I know the TV is capable of displaying an HD image edge-to-edge, as the memory stick feature proves.

The problem is you're watching 4:3 content that is then letterboxed by the station as 16:9. There is nothing you can do to get around that, except by watching the SD version of the station.
Hmmm. Just to be absolutely clear, you're saying the broadcaster is responsible for "warping" the image and there's nothing to be done about it by the TV? Why do, apparently, the use of STBs "fix" this issue? What are the STBs doing that the TV isn't?

So you sure the STB is outputting 1080i/720p for shows that are being broadcast in HD but really are just SD content? The shows themselves are squeezed into the 16:9 resolution that is provided by 1080i/720p so I'm not sure the STB can do anything about it except maybe zoom. It won't know it's displaying postage stamp content.

So you sure the STB is outputting 1080i/720p for shows that are being broadcast in HD but really are just SD content?
Well, I'm talking about shows that are recorded in HD and thunked down to SD, like CSI, Vegas, and others. Movies that were originally shot widescreen and broadcast in HD generally look fine, but even then I occasionally notice squishing.

I'll try to take some pics of what I'm seeing and post them here. It doesn't happen always, so it's hit-or-miss (enough of a hit to be really irritating, though).

Chad did not need to do anything since I had switched to Comcast and found the box to be the fault. Email Chad Billheimer and he may give you the help you need to disable the auto aspect. I agree that it is a flaw in this set. Good luck.
I just shot a PM to Chad. As I live in Florida, I hope he'll agree to work with me "remotely". Did you mention to him this irksome feature? Do you know if he's at least aware of the issue?

I'm surprised there hasn't been more discussion about this, as I'm sure it also plagues the 34" version.

I'm surprised there hasn't been more discussion about this, as I'm sure it also plagues the 34" version.

How so? A 34 inch wide screen merely pillar boxes 4:3 content. That;s the only logical way to display 4:3 material on a widescreen set.

The only ones affected by the postage stamping of "HD" 4:3 material are those of us with very capably 4:3 sets that get screwed by the lack of vision by Sony.

They should have provided a 4:3 full screen HD mode -or at least have provided a proper zoom that doesn't overscan

He is talking about the auto aspect in this set improperly letterboxing some material. It do do this with my Directv box but not my Comcast box. Hopefully Chad can give you a fix. Good luck. I have two more years with this set and then I am upgrading to a either a Sony XBR or SXRD.

He is talking about the auto aspect in this set improperly letterboxing some material. It do do this with my Directv box but not my Comcast box. Hopefully Chad can give you a fix. Good luck. I have two more years with this set and then I am upgrading to a either a Sony XBR or SXRD.

I think you are confused, or leaving out part of the story. The set auto "letterboxes" all 1080i or 720p inputs. That in itself is the "improper auto aspect" when you are receiving 4:3 material in an HD signal.

There is no way around it that I am aware of except the overscanned zoom I mentioned or watching an alternate output from your source -as I mentioned I switch to the S-video out from STB that is connected to my video 1 input.

If you are getting different behaviour from an HD source it is likely due to some internal feature that shifts the output to 480i or 480p when it detects a 4:3 window exists in an HD signal. That is not normal at least on my satellite box and is not achievable with the ATSC or QAM tuner either to my knowledge (you have to change to 480i/p - which you could do as well with the stb to get proper 4:3 aspect).

More likely you are reporting behaviour on that COMCAST box that passes the native signal. That would also be nice if available on my Dish network box - unfortunately it is not an available feature - the output is selectable but then fixed. So if the signal is 480i, which many digital non-HD channels are - you will get proper aspect on a 4:3 show due to passing native. In my case I have to switch box settings which is a PITA. But this does not apply to an HD signal - no way around the autoletter boxing unless the tech (Chad?) comes through with a service menu tweak we are unaware of. (Or as I mentioned switch the box output to 480i even though you have a 1080i or 720p signal being received).

Anyone have any ideas as to my problem?

All input's that can deliever HD, OTA, Component and HDMI have the same issue. From any one of those inputs, the biggest the aspect ratio display is on a 720 or 1080 signal is about 1.90:1 - 1.95:1 AR or so. So the top and bottom of the picture are being cut off. If I use my DVD player in 480P mode I can see all the extra information being cropped off, but naturally I want to upscale to my TVs native resolution.

Just went into the service menu yet again and nothing I tweek reveals more vertical picture information, it just stretches the image out. And I couldn't find an a switch for any "Auto AR function".

How so? A 34 inch wide screen merely pillar boxes 4:3 content. That;s the only logical way to display 4:3 material on a widescreen set.
I meant the KD-34XS955, which is a 4:3 set. I presume it suffers from the same problem.

The only ones affected by the postage stamping of "HD" 4:3 material are those of us with very capably 4:3 sets that get screwed by the lack of vision by Sony.
So, we are in agreement that there's a definite problem with this set as it relates to HD material of otherwise SD shows?

Chad B. wrote me back. I think I'm more confused now than ever. In essence...well, I should just post what he wrote:

"The only time you would want it is when you are watching an HD channel that is broadcasting SD material at the moment. In that instance it would eliminate the black bars at the top and bottom. When you are watching HD content on an HD channel, you would not want it to be full screen, because HD is a widescreen format. The squeeze is good in that instance, because it preserves resolution and shows HD in it's true aspect ratio."

HD is a widescreen format. Huh, I must've really missed the boat. I thought HD was simply an increase in pixel resolution, not an aspect definition, too.

So, I take it getting this set for the primary intent of watching HD material was self-defeating? I should've gotten a 40+ widescreen plasma or LCD and put up with the pillarboxing for 4:3 content?

I still contend that a significant amount of HD programming on this set looks squashed. I'm going to have to take some pics to show y'all what I mean.

I meant the KD-34XS955, which is a 4:3 set. I presume it suffers from the same problem.....That set is a 16:9 set.

...HD is a widescreen format. Huh, I must've really missed the boat. I thought HD was simply an increase in pixel resolution, not an aspect definition, too.......Absolutely. HD is 16:9, by definition. Choosing to watch regular HD on a 4:3 television, requires that you tolerate bars on top and bottom.

However, a lot of programming on HD channels can be SD 4:3 programming upconverted to HD resolution with black vertical pillars added to create the full 16:9 frame. This situation will cause postage stamp viewing on a non-zoomable 4:3 HD set.
.......So, I take it getting this set for the primary intent of watching HD material was self-defeating? I should've gotten a 40+ widescreen plasma or LCD and put up with the pillarboxing for 4:3 content?.......IMHO, yes, maybe and no. I watch 4:3 SD content in a non-linear zoom on my widescreen set all the time and it looks fine. BTW, there are many happy owners of 4:3 HD sets.
............I still contend that a significant amount of HD programming on this set looks squashed. I'm going to have to take some pics to show y'all what I mean.This may be due to the situation I outlined above. Post pics but also explain the conditions. Channel, programming, resolution, screen mode, etc.

That set is a 16:9 set.
Arggh, you're right. I thought there was a 34" version of the KD-36XS955...? Maybe not. I thought for sure there was, though. Hrrrr.

Absolutely. HD is 16:9, by definition. Choosing to watch regular HD on a 4:3 television, requires that you tolerate bars on top and bottom.
Point taken. I still don't understand such a limitation, though. Coming from a computer background, a 15" monitor can have a maximum resolution of 640x480 or 1600x1200. The latter will obviously offer a much sharper image, but it's still a 4:3 aspect ratio, taking advantage of the entire real-estate of the screen.

However, a lot of programming on HD channels can be SD 4:3 programming upconverted to HD resolution with black vertical pillars added to create the full 16:9 frame. This situation will cause postage stamp viewing on a non-zoomable 4:3 HD set.
The zoom on the KD-36XS955 is, from my experience, almost worthless due to the resultant clipping.

Chad B. wrote me back. I think I'm more confused now than ever. In essence...well, I should just post what he wrote:

"The only time you would want it is when you are watching an HD channel that is broadcasting SD material at the moment. In that instance it would eliminate the black bars at the top and bottom. When you are watching HD content on an HD channel, you would not want it to be full screen, because HD is a widescreen format. The squeeze is good in that instance, because it preserves resolution and shows HD in it's true aspect ratio."

HD is a widescreen format. Huh, I must've really missed the boat. I thought HD was simply an increase in pixel resolution, not an aspect definition, too.

So, I take it getting this set for the primary intent of watching HD material was self-defeating? I should've gotten a 40+ widescreen plasma or LCD and put up with the pillarboxing for 4:3 content?

I still contend that a significant amount of HD programming on this set looks squashed. I'm going to have to take some pics to show y'all what I mean.


I still would try your cable box. I know you have a cable card but since you have not found a solution I would try the cable box. The nominal charge is allot cheaper then buying a new set. I know my Comcast box works fine on this set. My Directv receiver did not and I had the same problem you are experiencing.

I assume (correct me if I'm wrong) that the SFP tube in the 36XS955 uses Rec. 709 phosphors. I'm wondering...does this set simulate SMPTE chromaticity when fed with a 480i/480p signal?

Thanks!

I believe the smaller version of the 36XS955 is the 32XS945 - a 4:3 32" set. I can't remember if it has an SFP tube or not, however...

I believe the smaller version of the 36XS955 is the 32XS945 - a 4:3 32" set. I can't remember if it has an SFP tube or not, however...

It doesn't.

The XS945 was basically the HS420 but with the XS series Charcoal exterior and a digital tuner.

I'll try and keep this short....

Man-O-Man I love this tv. For a while I didn't, but now I do, since I fixed it,"MYSELF"!!!

Sony has made a great TV in this KD-36XS955, picute, features, controls, remote,....and especially the modularity of the stuff inside. Anyone who can replace a PCI card in a computer can fix this TV...and probably any relatively new TV out there today.

Search back for safsurfer to see what my problem was and also see I was advised not to fix this myself. Well, I'm advising everyone to try and fix them thereselves.

First off, you will most likely need a repair manual for your TV. You can find them on the net for free, and maybe you might have to pay for it. Cheap though, $10-20 max for the download. But look for free, almost any of them can be found, they are out there.

Next, you will need to ask around and search the net for your problem. This goes without saying. That's the first thing anyone does when they have a problem. Ask around on tech chat sites like this one, etc....

Someone should be able to get you close to which board inside the TV needs repair. Everything inside the tv is modular. Practically all functions are layed out and individual. The manual spells everything out pretty clear too. Remember that this is for this tv, sony kd-36xs955. Sony has done a good job, other manufacturers may be different, but it's worth a look.

Against someones advise I pulled the back of my tv off and looked around a bit. Mind you you have to be very careful when doing this. Make sure plenty of room, etc.... unplugged, etc...you don't want to break anything else trying to fix this problem.

Finally, there are some places to get the required modules, boards, or even just get them fixed if they don't have in stock. My problem required a fix on the AZ board, I just replaced the whole board for $89. plus I can get $15 credit if I send in my dud, the broken board. It was pretty simple to guess which board my problem was comeing from, narrowed down to two, AZ or MZ. They weree only two where that particular circuit went through. I got the AZ board and that was that, job done, fixed.

I'll say this. I was having a problem with my audio, I had a popping sound out of one of the speakers when I changed channels and inputs. If you look in the manual and ask around on some of these tech and fix chat rooms you can see pretty quick that the audio power was on the AZ board. The boards are returnable for a small restock fee if they don't do the job too.

So there you have it. The Sony kd-36xs955 is not only a beautiful picture tv, but also a dream tv to fix and repair should you have any problems. Sony is great and also a big thanks to all who helped here too. I already thanked the couple of online techs that pointed me in the right direction also, thanks again.

If you want more info on techs, manuals, board houses, etc.... just post back or pm me.

safsurfer

Another nice thing is that Sony.com sells parts direct to the public. It's very easy to look up and purchase individual boards for these TVs.

I didn't check there really. At least for this tv they pointed me to a sony repair house in my town. I called them and they wanted $100 just to look at it. I was already pretty sure by that time it was the AZ board. BUt I didn't think to check back with sony if they sold the boards. I guess I should have. I doubt they would have been as cheap as where I got this one.

Partstore.com is one place but you will pay top dollar for a new board though. tristatemodule is where I got this one but it is a rebuilt refurbed one. They have a test set for everything they are warranted for a year and returnable if they don't fix the problem. ptselectronics is another one, a little more expensive than tristate but way cheaper than partstore still, they are rebuilt as well and are returnable too.

I would guess that sony.com would be the same price as partstore because they are probably new boards too. But at least you can get them. When I talked to sony tech about my problem they didn't know anything about it and when I checked the service bullitens nothing was listed either. So my problem was unique.

So now everyone knows if they have a popping sound in the audio when they change channels or inputs it is the AZ board. If you had an o-scope you caould probably trace it down to the transistor or capacitor that was the reall culprit and only cost couple dollars to fix.

Oh well, to fix it myself for less than hundred dollars, I'm happy.

Later

Hi Sony CRT´s fans
I found a site where you can download the SERVICE MANUAL FOR FREE of 30/34/36xs955 and 34xbr960(all with DA-4 chassis):go to www.schematicsforfree.com and 1)click on "Click here to see the files" in blue big letters 2) click on "Sony" 3)click on "Video" 4)click on "KD34XBR960" or "KD34XS955".It´s a Zip file.

Hey guys.
Have a Sony 36xs955 and have to keep a few more years till my wife gets out of hygiene
school. Great set but the cable input does not work. If I hook the cable into the coaxial input labeled cable and change the input to the first one it says antenna and there is no picture. If I hook the cable into the antenna input and do a scan I only get the first 22 stations and then no picture for the rest of stations, It will scan and pick of off air stations with a antenna. I did push the reset button but no luck. Not sure what is up. Anyone know a fix?

Hey guys.
Have a Sony 36xs955 and have to keep a few more years till my wife gets out of hygiene
school. Great set but the cable input does not work. If I hook the cable into the coaxial input labeled cable and change the input to the first one it says antenna and there is no picture. If I hook the cable into the antenna input and do a scan I only get the first 22 stations and then no picture for the rest of stations, It will scan and pick of off air stations with a antenna. I did push the reset button but no luck. Not sure what is up. Anyone know a fix?


If you are not going to use the cable company STB get a cable card from them. They were free from my company (COMCAST) - although they demanded a service call to install ($25), and no monthly rent, and it worked great - just no PPV which it doesn't sound like you have $ for anyway for a while.

What you can see directly off the cable itself (using the built in QAM tuner) are only the unencrypted channels. This is generally limited to the equivalent OTA local broadcasts and perhaps a couple stray channels. Of course you can still see the analog cable channels that way also.

to theroys88,

I think what your'e asking is about not seeing your channels by plugging directly into the wall. In the setup screen there is a pick for channel then on that screen is something about channel fix. Now if you go to that you need to first scroal down to the c2, c3, c4, etc... channels and pick one of them. Then get out and then go back and pick channel fix off. I think that's what happened. You picked one of the just 2, 3, 4, etc... picks and then went fix off. For some reason that does that. You need to be changing the "C" channels when contected directly to the wall. I hope this is what you were after. If not please clarify.

Channel fix is off. The problem is that when I connect the cable coaxial to the cable input, the first input says antenna and not cable and if I take the coaxial to the antenna input and run the scan I only get the first 22 analog channels and then no signal for the rest. No
digital channels either. I can pull all off air channels with a antenna though. Cable is fine since I am using a Comcast HD box. I was just checking all the inputs to make sure they are all working. I should be getting something on the cable input but nothing. I can do a channel scan but nothing comes up. The manual does not really elaborate on the cable input. I suppose that there is a cable input buy my set is not showing it. The only input that is showing up is the antenna input.

I spent a good while combing through the owner manual and realized that my remote is the wrong one and does not have the ant button to toggle between antenna and cable on the first input. Luckily I have a
friend who has the 34 version and borrowed his remote and the cable
input works fine and did a auto scan and picked up all analogs and unencrytped digital channels. Man I wish this set was bigger. Moved and now I am 14 feet from the set. Distance at the old house was 5 feet.

Has anyone had success getting SD sources on this set to look like they do on a SD native TV?

I've read every page of the KenTech service menu thread and signifigantly improved the image of SD & HD material, but I can't seem to get the SD picture to look like it does on my 24" SD Trinitron CRT. The picture itself is very similar, but looks rather "flat". It's missing something I can't seem to quantify. (SYSM = 3, VM to 4, MID5 to KenTech recommended settings, DRC set to interlaced, 480i coming in via component cables)

I'm very interested if people are having success replicating that true SD CRT picture on this set. Mine is close, but every time I do an A/B comparison the HD CRT loses hands down to the SD set. I'm also posting this in the service menu thread. Thanks in advance for any help.

I think SD looks very good on this set. Remember on a 27" set, any signal is going to look better since screen sizes hides flaws in the feed. Just got my cablecard installed on this set and was suprised. Thought the channel banners and guide would be the same as the cable box. They are no different then the regular channel banner of the set. We never use VOD or PPV so saving the monthly charge will be nice. Wish all my HD sets had one.

Yeah, your 36" viewing area is almost double the size of the 24". Plus the digital video processor in the 955 reinterprets color gradations to the best of its ability to output them in 1080i. Even the best HDTV video processors, like the Sony, are going to have a slightly more blocky look to the objects from an analog signal. I bet if you sit back another 4 feet from the 36" you can't tell the difference.

I thing I have (actually haven't) noticed is much of an effect using the DRC controls for SD fare. I forget now if it has to be only 480i versus 480p - but about all I could really tell is that the interlaced looked ever so much a little sharper than the progressive - and I have no idea what cinemotion does but in any case all three look generally the same to me. (I sit about 6 feet away)

I agree DRC is highly overated. My crappy SA 8300HD box does a better job deinterlacing
480i material then the set. My old Toshiba 36HF73 did a much better job at SD then this set. I like this set but the PQ is not to me as great as most on this forum would lead you to believe. My Panasonic CT-34wx54 gives a much better HD picture then this set. SD on the Panasonic blows away the Sony. On the Panasonic the colors are much more vibrant and the set clears up video noise 100% better. I bought this set because I had read so much about the superior PQ and the SFP and increased resolution..

Hi guys.

Since these SFP tube Sony CRTs are sold out everywhere I've checked, is there anywhere you'd suggest to look to purchase one of these babies, or the similar XBR960? Any help will be appreciated.

Hi guys.

Since these SFP tube Sony CRTs are sold out everywhere I've checked, is there anywhere you'd suggest to look to purchase one of these babies, or the similar XBR960? Any help will be appreciated.

craigslist. Used is your only option now.

or Ebay... there's on on their right now...

This is the TV I am keeping my eye out for. The KD-36XS955 has the SFP tube and a 4:3 screen.

This is the ultimate all purpose CRT console displaying TV. For all the non HD consoles it has that big 4:3 tube, just what you need for the PS2, Xbox, Gamecube, Dreamcast and all the rest that have all their content in 4:3. Then for the latest HD consoles the TV displays in 16:9 with Sony's finest CRT Super Fine Pitch tube.

I am going to keep my eye on craigslist for this one to pop up, if I can get it cheap [ $450 or less] I am going to snag it, and sell my 800 and 910.

Hi everyone.

I am selling my 36xs955 that is in perfect condition and has 2 and a half years left on the pc richards warranty.

Pick up only of course. I am in Queens, New York.

Please feel free to pm me with any questions.

Thanks

Does anyone have the Harmony 890 remote with this TV? If so what are your delays (speed settings) that you have configured on this remote?

Power On Delay:
Inter-key Delay:
Input Delay:
Inter-Device Delay:

I can't find a combo that works to turn the TV on properly.

Thx in advance

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.

Just wanted to let everyone know my set finally bit the dust last week. I try to turn it on, but no picture shows except for three faint horizontal (RGB) lines that flash on briefly three times then the red light next to the power button flashes. The manual says if that happens, the tv (obviously) needs service. The set charges up just fine, though.

Anybody know what may be wrong? An expensive fix? Was a damn fine CRT, I'd hate to see it go.

Condolences for your loss... If you still love the set it may be worth the service call fee to see if the replacement part is cheap.

What was your solution to the lack of VGA -- did the cord work or did you find another solution?


Just wanted to let everyone know my set finally bit the dust last week. I try to turn it on, but no picture shows except for three faint horizontal (RGB) lines that flash on briefly three times then the red light next to the power button flashes. The manual says if that happens, the tv (obviously) needs service. The set charges up just fine, though.

Anybody know what may be wrong? An expensive fix? Was a damn fine CRT, I'd hate to see it go.

Yes, actually I posted my fix a while back. Perhaps you missed it.


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 got a Pro Duo card just for the purpose of using on the TV, and it won't even detect it. What's the problem here? Please help? Thanks in advance...
By the way, it's a Lexar "Platinum" 4-gig card.

So, I'm picking this TV up this weekend for $300.

Does anybody happen to know where I could get the stand for it? Does Sony still sell them?

There's a silver triple leg stand that fits and matches the 36" perfectly that I picked up from Ikea. Couldn't find the exact item on their site, though. May not make it anymore.


I had a separate question that I haven't been able to get an answer to regarding CRTs in general, so I'll just post it here and see what happens. ...While my TV has bit the dust, so to speak, it does intermittently turn on, but typically doesn't turn back on when you turn it off for the day. Until I turn the thing around and get to fixing it, I was thinking of just keeping it on all the time and it's new "off" button would be the 'Pro' video setting with the picture and brightness all the way down. My question is am I saving power? I'm sure I am, but I wonder what the power draw is significantly less than during normal operation. I figure I'm stressing the tv out more by turning it on and off all the time (and maybe using more power by charging/discharging all the time), so if i just keep it on and all on zero, is that gonna be fine for a couple of months?

Just recently, after I turn on my set, it will be on the channel that was on when shut off. However, it will not change from that channel. I can manually enter another channel, and it will go to that. It also DOES change channels on the antenna input. The only way I can get channel changeability back to the cable channels is to do a new "auto program" session. This occurs about every other day.

Anyone have this problem or more importantly a solution?

Thanks!!

Just recently, after I turn on my set, it will be on the channel that was on when shut off. However, it will not change from that channel. I can manually enter another channel, and it will go to that. It also DOES change channels on the antenna input. The only way I can get channel changeability back to the cable channels is to do a new "auto program" session. This occurs about every other day.

Anyone have this problem or more importantly a solution?

Thanks!!


I assume you are using a cable card? (Maybe a bad assumption?) Mine go up and down with the channel keys fine - whether on the antenna or the cable input and whether digital or analog on either of those.

Using the favorite button (middle of circle) will change up down between antenna and cable depending on what source the particular favorite is.

Probably better for troubleshooting is how your set behaves when you hit the guide button.

Do the channels cycle properly there - using the up down arrow keys (not channel up down) and do the channels appear correctly set upthere?

Hi Ralph...no cable card being used. Direct cable input to the tv. When it's in this state, the guide button has no affect. This is starting to occur even after the set is shut of for brief periods i.e., 30 minutes. It's a pain to have to wait while it reprograms itself. Strangely, I tried the channel up/down on my vcr (also a Sony) and it works fine except the vcr does not recognize any of the digital channels.

It's got me stumped. I've used the troubleshooting section of the manual regarding this problem with suggestions such as you mentioned about the favorites setting. None of these have worked.

Awful frustrating when you get up every morning and have to wait 50+ minutes for your tv to become viewable.

Johnny -

Sorry - I should have realized when you said you got channels back wth auto program that you didn't have a cable card - auto program is disabled when you have a cable card except for NTSC (disappearing soon) and ATSC OTA channels. One thing you may want to try is to get the cable company to provide a cable card. In my case there is no direct charge for a cable card other than a $25 service call (required) and a monthly $2 "outlet" fee. Still cheaper than a cable box and you get all subscribed channels but you don't get a guide. (I have a laptop setup with TitanTV to get my guide info)

Maybe someone else can help you that has a setup like yours.

Thanks Ralph!
I can't be the only one with this problem, can I?

Best wishes for the holidays!

If anyone is looking to sell their kd-36xs955 in the NY, NJ or PA area, please PM me price... I live in Central NJ and willing to travel... Thank you...

I've been combing Craigslist and ebay... Still on the hunt... Just giving this a little bump to see if anyone here is willing to part with theirs...

2 people offered to sell but reconsidered (I guess) because communication stopped, even though my interest had not... And I got about 8 friendly PM's about "why" I was looking for this set with the current technology that exists? :p

I've been combing Craigslist and ebay... Still on the hunt... Just giving this a little bump to see if anyone here is willing to part with theirs...

2 people offered to sell but reconsidered (I guess) because communication stopped, even though my interest had not... And I got about 8 friendly PM's about "why" I was looking for this set with the current technology that exists? :p

I would recommend you keep looking as with time something will show up. A little feedback to you as I am now the owner of the "Rolls Royce" 34xbr960N as well as a 36kd955xs -

The 36 4:3 is a much preferred set for my purposes. Even at this late stage a major part of my viewing is still 4:3 material; whether it be pillar boxed in an HD signal or watching other 4:3 material including dvds; photos or output of digital camcorders. Just look at HBO and STarz - one HD channel and then 5 or 6 SD channels broadcasting - and the SD channels look superb on this set especially with the DRC controls. I even watch a lot of HD shows with the set zoomed (missing the sides but getting a nice big display of the show in high resolution).

They do show up periodically and you will get one someday; but I suppose if you are looking here folks want more than what they could get off Craigslist or EBay

Thanks Ralph... I will just stay on the search...

I already own the KD-34XBR960 (Bedroom TV) and love it! I want to pick up the KD-36XS955 for my living room and I might pick up the KV-40XBR800 for my Basement game room...

Recently divorced, starting over and looking for the best bang for the buck (PQ and price that is)... And the fact that these great sets are heavy as heck, gives me the piece of mind that they will be waiting for me when I get home :p

I've got the 36XS955 myself, picked it up on eBay for $300 (local pickup of course). Mine has definitely been dropped (broken feet tell the tale) but everything seems to be working fine. I noticed a lot of people have tweaked around in the service menu and made some very fine grained adjustments. For all you hardcore 36XS955 tweakers, what are your settings? What's the first thing you tweak? Let me know!

I had Chad Billheimer calibrate the set. Blacks are nice on this set. HD looks great. I have some focus issues but those did not improve after calibration. You can see it when you watch ESPN HD with the side parts on the right or left with different subjects. Blurry looking. Much sharper towards the center of the set. Chad said he corrected the convergence and worked on the focus in the service menu. Other then that I really like the set. It is the only one so far that has the black levels that work in my man hole in the basement. The set was in a well lighted room before and it was not a good fit.

I still have mine in Western NC. If you are planning any trip south let me know. IT is in perfect condition with no issues. $500 includes the matching stand.

You may want to pm Polarican about your set. I will tell you that this beast is a bitch to move. Big, heavy and awkward!

I'm in Colorado Springs and looking to get rid of mine. It is in great condition, and has been kept in a smoke free environment. It has the matching sony stand to go with it. PM if interested.

Yep. I'm a college prof and I had 2 football players move it to where it is now. It hasn't moved since then! BTW- I put those teflon furniture movers under the stand and it slides very easily. We use them to swivel the set & stand.

I'm selling mine, so if anyone is here in the Dallas area, there's one available. It's in good condition, and the only real flaw is that it has two scratches on the left side. I'm selling it for $250 with the matching stand.

I'm selling mine, so if anyone is here in the Dallas area, there's one available. It's in good condition, and the only real flaw is that it has two scratches on the left side. I'm selling it for $250 with the matching stand.

Plaid311, is this set still available?

I have a KD-36XS955. As you all know the picture is stunning even by the newest Plasma or LCD standards. I will to let this amazing TV go for $250. I live in Lincoln NE so shipping or pickup may be an issue.

Just recently, after I turn on my set, it will be on the channel that was on when shut off. However, it will not change from that channel. I can manually enter another channel, and it will go to that. It also DOES change channels on the antenna input. The only way I can get channel changeability back to the cable channels is to do a new "auto program" session. This occurs about every other day.

Anyone have this problem or more importantly a solution?

Thanks!!

Johnny,
I know it's been a while, but I have this set and have the exact same problem. Did you ever find a solution?

Thanks,
Mike

What's the best way to clean the screen on a 36XS955?

Has anybody experienced any yellow push in terms of skin tones with the XS955? I have a 34", but this seems to be the most active thread. I need to check my best buy warranty and try to go that route, but it's annoying that people on TV seem to look like they're having liver issues or something.

What's the best way to clean the screen on a 36XS955?

I have not had any problems cleaning mine with eye-glass tissues (the kind that are pre-moistened in foil packages)

Has anybody experienced any yellow push in terms of skin tones with the XS955? I have a 34", but this seems to be the most active thread. I need to check my best buy warranty and try to go that route, but it's annoying that people on TV seem to look like they're having liver issues or something.

No problems with that here.

Hi Ralph...no cable card being used. Direct cable input to the tv. When it's in this state, the guide button has no affect. This is starting to occur even after the set is shut of for brief periods i.e., 30 minutes. It's a pain to have to wait while it reprograms itself. Strangely, I tried the channel up/down on my vcr (also a Sony) and it works fine except the vcr does not recognize any of the digital channels.

It's got me stumped. I've used the troubleshooting section of the manual regarding this problem with suggestions such as you mentioned about the favorites setting. None of these have worked.

Awful frustrating when you get up every morning and have to wait 50+ minutes for your tv to become viewable.

Having the same problem. As soon as I reprogram I'm fine, but the moment I turn my TV off, I loose all my channels. With a little probing I found that I can keep my channel list if I cancel about half way through the "auto program". Though, this isn't really a solution for me, as I would be missing most of my channels. Anyone have a fix for this? Or any ideas?