Hey guys,

I have been working with the director of Toshiba Support for the past 3 weeks on this issue, and she has told me that the engineers "have not been able to duplicate the problem", I believe her, but I dont think the engineers are really trying.
As I said earlier I have demonstrated this on 2 different retail stores showrooms(1 with VOOM and 1 with Samsung hdtv box), so again we are not the only ones.
At any rate I would like to post her name and number in Tennessee, so others can go ahead and contact her in regards to this issue for 2 reasons:
1. So they will take care of their customers(these are not $150 tv sets here)
2. So we can keep a log of who has called, so when they say I have never heard of this issue we can reply well"If im not mistaken you had 10 calls and we can list the members who have called)

If anyone would like to volunteer, as a lead on this, maybe the mods will let us keep a thread were we can list name and phone number, model number, and date that we called .

This is one of the things that makes AVS great!

All feedback welcome in regards to this, as I said earlier these are expensive tv sets and I think they should work correctly.

Christopher

I got no issues with my 52HMX. If anything, I can definitely get a better DVD player, but this one is just fine.

HD is amazing on the set.

SD is just as good as the old days and old tubes.

I have no issue with the dark/black levels.

Console gaming is awesome.

Originally posted by ndahbar
I got no issues with my 52HMX. If anything, I can definitely get a better DVD player, but this one is just fine.

HD is amazing on the set.

SD is just as good as the old days and old tubes.

I have no issue with the dark/black levels.

Console gaming is awesome.

Are you using the HDMI port for HD?

Originally posted by drmarengo
.......If anyone would like to volunteer, as a lead on this, maybe the mods will let us keep a thread were we can list name and phone number, model number, and date that we called .

This is one of the things that makes AVS great!

All feedback welcome in regards to this, as I said earlier these are expensive tv sets and I think they should work correctly.



O second the nomination. Now what? It concerns me that their "Engineers" cannot duplicate this issue. Just plug a set top box into the HDMI port and bring up a set up screen or a channel directory---anything with text for starters.

If you can, please PM me the name of the Director. It's NOT a $150 set and I haven't gotten the MasterCard bill yet.

I've had my 52HM84 for two months. Here are my observations...

OTA broadcast channels, especially CBS, look fantastic. DVDs look good but are limited by the technology. The next generation of HD DVD players should change this.

For HD channels, I'm using an outside rooftop antenna. The HD receiver is a Samsung SIR-T451. It is presently connected to the TV using component video cables.

I tried to connect the receiver to the TV using a DVI to HDMI cable but doing so rendered the picture very dark and with a slight greenish cast. Sometimes dark scenes took on a posterization effect. I also noticed a slight ghosting effect on text. Needless to say, I went back to the component connection which is much better than HDMI.

Now, from what I've read in these forums and from my own experience, there is clearly a problem with the HDMI port. I don't know if this issue is widespread with other TV manufacturers but it's definitely a problem on the Toshiba DLP sets and needs to be addressed.

Alan

I did another researches today:

1) I replaced the Sony DVD player with Denon 2910. This player performs really well with HDMI output. The ghosting effect reduced drastically. But the DVI output still doesn't work at higher speed. After trying the Samsung 841, Sony 975V and Denon 2910. Denon stands out. It is the first time that I experience a better HDMI input than component input. But I would be ok with the Sony at half the price.

2) I then replaced the $28 DVI-HDMI cable with a $100 Monster cable. Surprisingly, it works as the HMDI output. It seems like that the HDMI-HDMI connection doesn't rely on quality of cable as much as the DVI-HDMI.

After all, the quality of the display is still not converge enough to be PC acceptable. I think the Toshiba doesn't use a straight digital path with digital input. So the component inputs might turn out to be better.

I would like to talk to the Toshiba technical director too.

KC38

For those that are having ghosting issues with HDMI, what brand, model, and length cables are you using? I'm wondering if the cables could be the problem?


Jeff

My Ghosting report:

Samsung 841 - 52HM84 DVI to HDMI - cable came with DVD around 6' (serious)
Sony DVP-NS975V to 62HMX84 HDMI - HDMI - 1m generic (serious)
Denon 2610 to 62HMX84 HDMI-HDMI 1m generic (minor)
Denon 2610 to 62HMX84 DVI - HDMI 4m Monster (minor)
Adelphia HD STB to 62HMX84 DVI-HDMI 4m Monster (minor)

minor - as shown by Neo42
Serious - Green line followed by Red line

Originally posted by KC38
My Ghosting report:

Samsung 841 - 52HM84 DVI to HDMI - cable came with DVD around 6' (serious)
Sony DVP-NS975V to 62HMX84 HDMI - HDMI - 1m (serious)
Denon 2610 to 62HMX84 HDMI-HDMI 1m (minor)
Denon 2610 to 62HMX84 DVI - HDMI 4m (minor)
Adelphia HD STB to 62HMX84 DVI-HDMI 4m (minor)

minor - as shown by Neo42
Serious - Green line followed by Red line

What brand and model HDMI cables are you using? Are these all generic cables that came with the equipment? What I'm curious of is if any of the much more expensive cables correct the ghosting issues or if they have the problem as well? A 6ft or 2meter HDMI - HDMI cable can cost anywhere from about $30 to about $120 or more. Maybe someone with ghosting issues could try one of the higher priced Monster cables or other high priced brand from a store with a good return policy and see if it fixes the ghosting issue.
I don't have my tv yet (waiting on 52HMX94 to arrive at local store) and I don't have a DVD player yet with DVI or HDMI output but eventually I will. I have no problem with spending $120 or more for a good quality cable if it gives me a perfect picture but if the cable doesn't make any difference I won't spend the extra money.



Jeff

Does the 62hmx84 have a monitor or other means for trackig hours on the bulb?

Originally posted by KC38

After all, the quality of the display is still not converge enough to be PC acceptable. I think the Toshiba doesn't use a straight digital path with digital input. So the component inputs might turn out to be better.

KC38

Have you seen anything to confirm this or is it a hunch based on the symptoms?

DC

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=470026

OK..I screwed up and posted this same msg as its own thread, but hopefully that can be deleted.

I'm hoping this poll (link above) might be a quick way to find out how many HM(X) DLP owners are having ghosting issues with the HDMI port, and hopefully gather enough data for Toshiba to look into the problem with more direction. Please take a look at the link above and respond accordingly.

Question for other 94 owners: Does the integrated TV Guide work for you? If so, what is your source (OTA, cable, dish).

Mine has not populated. I've tried different configurations and no luck. I have basic cable w/o an STB. Anyone have ideas if this configuration is not for some reason compatible with the TV Guide online?

tx,
dsr

Originally posted by dsr15
Question for other 94 owners: Does the integrated TV Guide work for you? If so, what is your source (OTA, cable, dish).

Mine has not populated. I've tried different configurations and no luck. I have basic cable w/o an STB. Anyone have ideas if this configuration is not for some reason compatible with the TV Guide online?

tx,
dsr

Yes, the TV Guide works using an OTA antenna on input 1, but it takes an overnight delay to populate.

I too have ghosting using HDMI in ONLY-(component in is perfect) on my Toshiba 46HM84. I have tried the Samsung 841, the Denon 1910, and now the new Panasonic S97 upscaling(yes i NEED HDMI) DVD players, using 6 to 10 foot DVI to HDMI or HDMI to HDMI as each player needed, with the same sorry results: ghosting (ringing?) on BOTH the leading and lagging edges of pic details(highlights on mid gray field look especially bad). Also note a little Y/C lag. TOSHIBA ENGINEERING TEAM, please just take a look at the Avia chapter 7 calibrations pixel cropping test frame (looks very bad!). You have one of the very finest, if not THE finest DLP HD2+ rp units made here. ALMOST perfection! Now lets finish the job!.Let us out here , and your field techs, know what needs to be modified or changed. Thanks!.......Dave Handley

I too have ghosting (starting to feel like we've all joined Alcoholics Anonymous or maybe Ghosting Anonymous). I've tried a Samsung OTA receiver, Samsung HD Direct TV receiver, an RCA HD Direct TV receiver, and the Toshiba HDMI DVD Player and all showed ghosting. I tried an Acoustic Research 6 ft HDMI cable and an AR DVI->HDMI adapter. I also am using a monster DVI->HDMI cable and in all configurations am getting ghosting. A guy at Best Buy told me that when the Toshiba 5970 DVD player was released this year they had problems with ghosting and quit selling them temporarily until they got a fix. I'm starting to believe this is a Toshiba issue rather than a set basis and no one is noticing this until they use the HDMI port. In some scenes, the issue doesn't show up a lot, but on some material such as the Patriots game in HD last night looked rather grainy over HDMI but fine over component. The HDMI input also is darker as well. HH Gregg looked at my set on Friday and is supposed to be working with Toshiba. Haven't heard from them yet but I'm starting to get the feeling this is a Toshiba issue and they are dodging the issue at the moment. Hopefully I'll get a call back today.

Not that this makes matters any better, but HDMI & DVI looks worst than Component on all the High end Sets I owned. Regardless of Ghosting or not, HDMI and DVI looks Darker, Muddy, and snowy (too digitally/pixelly looking) over Component. That doesn't correct the issue about the ghosting, but it May shed some light for some people here.

IMHO Component is the way to go on all these New DVI and HDMI RPTV sets regardless of what set it is.

Question was posted in regards to types of cables being used:

This Is Not A Cable issue:
I have used Better Cables DVI-HDMI as well as Monsters DVI-HDMI and same results on both.

Im really getting close to getting my money back at this point , maybe looking into Mitsubishi or Hitachi LCD.

I just cant keep a $4000 tv that isnt working correctly.


Christopher

Originally posted by drmarengo
Question was posted in regards to types of cables being used:

This Is Not A Cable issue:
I have used Better Cables DVI-HDMI as well as Monsters DVI-HDMI and same results on both.

Im really getting close to getting my money back at this point , maybe looking into Mitsubishi or Hitachi LCD.

I just cant keep a $4000 tv that isnt working correctly.


Christopher

Cables have nothing to do with it, when it comes to digital. You can use radio shack cables or monster and its gonna look the same. With component and RCA it does make a difference what cables you use.

Forget the Hitachi, it has a worst picture period. If your really worried about your HDMI output working and not a good picture than thats fine. But as far as picture quality over this set the only set I'm considering for the price and size is the JVC HD-ILA which I'm still considering, but from what I've been reading here is that they have issues too.

So we can't really win here.

Originally posted by drmarengo
Im really getting close to getting my money back at this point , maybe looking into Mitsubishi or Hitachi LCD.

I just cant keep a $4000 tv that isnt working correctly.


Christopher

I sure hope it doesn't come to that point. I like the Picture quality on the Toshiba and for a 60" tabletop DLP, the only competitor for me would be the Mitsubishi. Hopefully Toshiba will step up to the plate and resolve the issue. When the Toshiba 1080P LCos failed they refunded the owners money. When the Panasonic 52DL52 DLP failed because of strobing, I didn't hear about refunds. I'm hoping Toshiba will work hard to fix the current issue for those of us who purchased the set. But it is definitely an issue that needs resolved. Especially since they only have 2 component inputs on the TV and those who have the HMX models would have 2 useless (at least in my opinion) inputs that they paid more money to get.

I have HDMI DVD and component Comcast Cable and no ghosting issues for me - everything is very very clear. Well, there is really, really slight ghosting on some things every once in a while, but nothing perpetual.

Originally posted by xb1032
......I'm hoping Toshiba will work hard to fix the current issue for those of us who purchased the set. But it is definitely an issue that needs resolved. Especially since they only have 2 component inputs on the TV and those who have the HMX models would have 2 useless (at least in my opinion) inputs that they paid more money to get.

Amen, brother! I paid extra for those two ports. Now I cannot use them and would rather have extra Component Inputs.

I fear if I take the set to an "authorized Service Center", I'll get the standard no-problem-found response. This issue will need to be acknowledged and resolved by Toshiba.

It's a $3K to $4K Television for god's sake! How much must we spend to get a decent picture??????

Forget Mitsubishi---glare is horrible.
Forget JVC---crummy blacks.

I spent two hours to watch for the same ghosting problem for other TVs in the last two days. I couldn't recall any one that doesn't have minor ghost problem. None of the Digital TV, espcially those 60" one, has a PC monitor quality. The best I saw was a Sony 55xx955 displaying integrated HD channel.

When I look closer, the ghost was filtered by the analog component inputs but more obvious from the HDMI inputs.

The digital TV is still in the infant stage like the digital camera three years ago. No matter what you got for a 1 Miga pixel camera, it wouldn't be perfect. If we followed the guide line of staying 3 times the distance from the TV and don't use the TV as PC monitor, then the picture would be good enough.

Originally posted by KC38
......... If we followed the guide line of staying 3 times the distance from the TV and don't use the TV as PC monitor, then the picture would be good enough.

Wrong! The ghosting degrades the overall image quality. Granted, you cannot really see it unless you look closely at static images, but it does affect the overall quality of the image. For example, white yard lines on a football field look less-defined, almost blurry. I'm happy using Component inputs, but now I don't have enough of them to go around.

i can't see the ghosting, i watched sunday night football last night and couldn't see any ghosting over dvi --> hdmi, i work at best buy and see dlps all the time, the toshiba is the best tv we carry, like a guy was saying earlier nothing is perfect even when you buy a 70,000 dollar car, your transmission can still go out. the pq on the toshiba is amazing, no one has perfected the use of hdmi anyway, give it time

then again i got a discount still this tv is awesome even for msrp

how far away do you sit from your tosh hmx?

mine is a 62hmx84 - i sit about 12 feet away. dvd's are grainy but hd is glorious.

i posted up pics of the hm84 in action with some discovery and monsters inc. amazing

http://gallery.avsforum.com/showgallery.php?cat=500&ppuser=7474578

You gotta watch Shrek 2, Looks real clear. Very amazing
Even on my Samsung HD931 dvd player over component it looks real clear.

the animation is the best, cause its a pure digital transfer. i posted up pics of monsters inc and nemo, im getting shrek 2 on netflix so ill post up pics of that when i get it tomorrow. animation is mind blowing on the tosh.

KC38 and SAYANYTHINGROCK!!!


Thanks for the feedback on the issue and I agree with you to a point:
Purchasing a 70,000 sports car and yes under normal wear and tear a transmission can go(absolutely)-BUT this is completely different than driving it off the floor with broken transmission(thats why we have LEmon Laws), these sets demonstrate this out of the box, not after a year or 2.

KC as far as 1 MB cameras, when they came out, we are in a totally different price point here, and second Im not saying the Mitsubishi or Samsung are better units, but I personally brought my HDTV box to the store to check and see if it was my box, and checked on both the other units and worked flawlessly. So yes this is an issue it seems exclusive to Toshiba.

I secong the point that while yes on text its absurdely visible, it is also blurring the picture on other signals, when you pay over 4000 for a display device, i think there is a level of performance that is expected and while there will always be inherent issues from one manufacturer to another, failed input connections is not the same as an overaccentuating decoder card or poor quality line doubler.


KC and SAYANYTHINGROCK please dont interpret this as a flame, but more so , as one of the vital components that makes AVS a great place to get information. Your opinion is valued at the highest level as anyone elses and much appreciated.


Christopher

I plan on buying the Toshiba SD-V592 DVD/VCR player to hook up to my 52HMX94. I would go pick one up today at Best Buy but I have to wait and see if I get any BB gift cards for christmas, this way the wife doesn't give me any lip since there is nothing "wrong" with our current dvd/vcr player.

The current player when put in progressive scan makes the picture look way too soft, almost fuzzy. Interlace looks much better in my opinion, so given the fact that the player is a very cheap one I think that's the problem. I tried adjusting the sharpness and contrast to make it look better but it doesn't help. My xbox playing the movies in progressive scan looks much better.

Anyway, my point to this post is that the SD-V592 has an HDMI port on it so I plan on hooking it up this way. I'll report back on what I find with the ghosting issue. Hopefully it's not an issue but from what I'm reading I think it will be.

This TV so far has been perfect for me, the picture is great on DVD's and games. It also looks good with my analog cable TV, I was very surprised at the picture I got through cable. I don't have any audio / video sync issues and no game lag or dithering to report!

Someone had said earlier to play Ninja Gaiden, go into firstperson mode and push left on the thumbstick. I did so and the guy spun around, no dithering at all! I also tried Madden 2003 again on the gamecube with Game Mode on, the timing on the kicks were fine. I couldn't be happier with the TV and will be very pleased if the ghosting issue through HDMI doesn't happen for me. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

drmarengo,

If you have tried the same source with other TV fawlessly. I would exchange for one that you would satisfy. The price of the Toshiba drops drastically (62" to the lower 3k at a local retailer in LA). I wonder the price drop is a result of its quality.

GHOSTING

I think either some of you are not having ghosting issues or you are not looking closely enough. Why is the ghosting such an issue to some of us? Well put it this way. I saw Monday Night Football in HD OTA last night. On component it was bright and crisp. However, when I viewed it via DVI->HDMI it was granier, had more artifacts, and was darker. And no, it's not the viewing distance. I owned the Samsung HLN617W before the Toshiba and DVI was equal to better than component. Not the case on my Toshiba. If you are looking for ghosting you need to look for the right thing. If you have Black text on a white background or vice versa, the issue isn't real noticable. However, I can bring up the menu on my direct TV receiver which has a blue background and with white text and it's obvious. This has nothing to do with reception and no ghosting via component at 1 foot away but you can clearly see ghosting at 12ft away on HDMI (I never saw this on the HLN617W via DVI, this is a real issue at least for some televisions). Even the Direct TV guy told me I had a bad picture over HDMI.

Just as an update I still haven't heard from the HH Gregg service tech yet. I did take my direct-tv receiver to HH Gregg and test it out on a 46HM84 and I saw ghosting right off the menu system. I think either all these sets are having HDMI issues and other aren't noticing or using the HDMI ports or maybe a bad batch has been sent out. HDMI was not meant to work this way.

My friend has a 62HM84 and I tried a lot to look for ghosting and could not find it. He has Comcast HDTV service, the reciever is connected using a Momnster DVI-HDMI cable.

But I think this might be related to the MENU screens for Direct TV and other MENU screens. Maybe the way these menus were designed / created is causing the ghosting. I am guessing the menus were created in a very low resolution graphics and the BIG screen TV's are just showing you the defects of the design.

Have you guys noticed any ghosting on Images other than MENU screens? Have you noticed it in movies and other programs?

I have read an article on VOOM High-Def service and they claim to have a TV-Menu which was designed in High-Def resolution.

Maybe this is the difference, Can someone with VOOM service confirm if they are seeing GHOST images on the VOOM menu?

Don't mean to sound sarcastic, but it's not the menu and it's not the viewing distance. It's a problem with the HDMI port. If it were the direct TV menu, I'd get ghosting over the component cable. If the viewing distance was the issue, you'd see ghosting from a foot away over component but you don't. This ghosting is an issue and is not normal. I tried an RCA Direct-TV receiver, Samsung HD Direct-TV receiver, a Samsung HD OTA receiver, and the Toshiba HDMI upconverting DVD player and all displayed ghosting. For all questioning the ghosting please look at the screenshots that were posted earlier in this thread. The ghoting is degrading the overall image quality. It may not be happening on all sets, but maybe a bad batch was sent out. I probably had the first TV instock and the TV I tested it on was there before my TV made it to the store.

All I know is a $4000 TV that only has 2 component inputs shouldn't have this issue. I just want my HDMI connection to work properly:D .

Ghosting is definitely NOT limited to the menus. It's all over the place! It essentially degrades the picture quality. Now I must wonder how much better my set would be with HDMI working correctly. I must agree 100% with Mr. xp1032: HDMI was not intended to be INFERIOR to Component.

I strongly agree that the ghosting issue affect the normal viewing quality. I need to set the sharpness to 0 to feel comfortable at 15 ft away.

I have the 52HM84 before and the ghosting issue wasn't very noticeable or I won't exchange for the 62HMX84.

I have arranged a home service to look into the problem. From what I see here, I won't expect too much from that. Since I got my TV through mail order. Any body know what would be the return procedure? I already paid $300 for shipment. If I have to pay another $300 to return the TV, I might end up to stick with it.

Anyone report the ghosting issue on the HMX94's?

Can someone comment on the TV Guide On Screen feature of the HM94 series? Can we see some pics of the Guide? Pics of the Cablecard slot and omniview slots? Where are they on the tv?

Originally posted by Shaner1
Anyone report the ghosting issue on the HMX94's?

I see no "ghosting" via either HDMI for STB, nor on the second HDMI on DVD (Denon 2910) playback.
Set being used is 62HMX94.

I have not tried component connection because the HDMI has worked so well.

You guys with the ghosting issue, do you see ghosting when images are still? Im seeing like a ghosting, trailing effect on movement on mits dlp..:mad:

GHOSTING

OK. I have a friend that ordered a 62HM84 from Best Buy (which is what I have). He called my local store and inquired about the issue as he's concerned about it too. He talked to the BB store manager (who is actually knowledgable and I know that typically isn't the case at BB) and he stated the issue is probably due to the revision of the firmware for the HDMI that is causing the issue. So hopefully this is an update that the service tech can do. I called and have not heard from him today and he has my number at home but I'm at work now. I'll post if I hear more information tomorrow.

I have placed an order for 62HM84 which is to be delivered this weekend.
Is there any place we can look to find out the firware version?

Maybe the ghosting is related to certain batch of TV's and maybe the firmwares were updated later????

Please let me know where we can look to find out Firmware and other version numbers (if any)?

Thanks,

Anyone else have any settings for the TV for HD content via component? What do you think the best settings are for contrast, sharpness, color, warm/cool/medium, etc.?? Thanks!

I know most of the talk here recently has been about the ghosting over HDMI issue, but other than that, are all you guys pretty satisfied with your Tosh's?

I'm still on the fence about returning my Sony LCD. Just ruled out the Mits DLP today, so I'm down to the Tosh or keeping the Sony.

I'm more than likely looking at the 62HM84 since it's what I can get locally.

Domer,

See my post up a few, I couldn't be happier with my 52HMX94 but I haven't tried the HDMI ports yet. That test will come soon though.

Does any one have a pdf file of the owners manuals for the 52HMX94 and/or the 52HM94 series ?? I'd like to see the differences between these models and to be abel to compare them to the Mits 52725 series.

Thanks,
Mikef5

My understanding is the differences has dwindled down to:

the HMX has 2 HDMI ports
the HMX has the black/dark grey bezel around the screen.

If you find something else please post!

Aceman

Originally posted by Aceman
My understanding is the differences has dwindled down to:

the HMX has 2 HDMI ports
the HMX has the black/dark grey bezel around the screen.

If you find something else please post!

Aceman

The below is the response received from Toshiba customer service, who has been excellent in answering questions.

"The difference between the DLPs_is the Cinema Series has two HDMI inputs, a different remote with more capabilities, a Virtual Dolby surround sound, and an acrylic screen cover."

Originally posted by domer67
I know most of the talk here recently has been about the ghosting over HDMI issue, but other than that, are all you guys pretty satisfied with your Tosh's?

I'm still on the fence about returning my Sony LCD. Just ruled out the Mits DLP today, so I'm down to the Tosh or keeping the Sony.

I'm more than likely looking at the 62HM84 since it's what I can get locally.

Domer, I was in the same boat. I had a 42 inch GWIV that I exchanged for a 52HM84.

The Sony had a brighter picture that was not bad at all. Text was also much sharper when I had connected a PC over DVI (using the same resolution).

The Toshiba had much better blacks. And I have not noticed any rainbows.. On the other hand, I never saw SDE on the Sony (but I think this is because the set was only 42 inches). The reason I returned the Sony however, was Lipsync issues, something where the Toshiba is doing much better

The ghosting problem over HDMI is a concern. I noticed this right off the bat, and I hope to post some A-B pics comparing HDMI vs. component.

So in a nutshell, I am still torn about going from the Sony to the Toshiba, with my main point of concern being the ghosting issue. If you still have time left with your return policy, I would suggest holding off until we can see how the ghosting issue is resolved.

Originally posted by Zues
You guys with the ghosting issue, do you see ghosting when images are still? Im seeing like a ghosting, trailing effect on movement on mits dlp..:mad:

No. The trailing problem you describe is NOT what we're see ingh with the Toshiba. It's basically double or multiple images. Think of the letter "O" looking like a doughnut. Ghosty images both on the leading and trailing edges. It's present all the time but most noticable up close looking at static images with sharp edges---like guide info. Switch to Component inputs and it's GONE. Poof!

To avoid all the HDMI picture quality issues, I have decided to use component for everything . . . but don't have enough inputs on the TV. Does anyone know of a good stand-alone input switcher that I can connect multiple component cables to and set beside my TV? I'm afraid that any old switcher would diminish the signal quality.

FYI...

Amazon has great deals on the 46HM84 , 52HM84 & 62HM84. Take a look... you'll be surprised. Hint... there are no 3's in the 62HM84 price & no 2's in the 46HM84 price :)

Originally posted by lewchee
FYI...

Amazon has great deals on the 46HM84 , 52HM84 & 62HM84. Take a look... you'll be surprised. Hint... there are no 3's in the 62HM84 price :)

Those prices are fantastic...I wonder if there is any chance of Best Buy refunding some of the difference.

Originally posted by nickindc03
To avoid all the HDMI picture quality issues, I have decided to use component for everything . . . but don't have enough inputs on the TV. Does anyone know of a good stand-alone input switcher that I can connect multiple component cables to and set beside my TV? I'm afraid that any old switcher would diminish the signal quality.

I was looking at this myself, and I think the best way to go would be to upgrade to a receiver that can do component video switching, like the yamaha HTR-5760

Originally posted by henrywh
The below is the response received from Toshiba customer service, who has been excellent in answering questions.

"The difference between the DLPs_is the Cinema Series has two HDMI inputs, a different remote with more capabilities, a Virtual Dolby surround sound, and an acrylic screen cover."

The acrylic screen cover part is very deceiving. I have seen a 52HMX84 in person and as I was looking at it I was impressed with the lack of glare on the screen. Upon closer inspection I found that the acrylic cover only goes over the black border around the screen! It does not cover the actual screen. This seems to be very effective though because it makes the black border very glossy looking and slightly reflective which seems to make the picture stand out more without adding any glare to the screen. I really love the look of it and I was amazed at how long I looked at the TV and did not notice that the cover was only on the border. I could not tell until I looked close at the edge of the border.

Jeff

Originally posted by henrywh
I see no "ghosting" via either HDMI for STB, nor on the second HDMI on DVD (Denon 2910) playback.
Set being used is 62HMX94.

I have not tried component connection because the HDMI has worked so well.

That's great to hear. I hope I have the same results when I get my 52HMX94.

Jeff

I know this is subjective, but are you guys seeing the 'shimmer effect' on these sets...the appearance of dancing pixels or whatever in bright scenes (particularily the 62"ers).

I didn't really see it on the 52hm84 at BB, but of course everything is more pronounced the bigger the screen. Have not seen a 62" Tosh anywhere.

Reason I ask is because it's very noticeable to me on my 55" Sony LCD that I might trade in for the Tosh. I've been looking at LCD's so much that I haven't really paid attention to how much this is noticeable/or not on the DLP's. I know it's pretty much a physical characteristic of the anti-glare matte screens, but am not even sure what kind of screen the Tosh uses...similar to all others I'm sure. I do not see any of this effect on the Mits DLP, but the screen of course is tucked behind that glare shield.

thx.

I had posted this earlier, got no response???

I have placed an order for 62HM84 which is to be delivered this weekend.
Is there any place we can look to find out the firware version?

Maybe the ghosting is related to certain batch of TV's and maybe the firmwares were updated later????

Please let me know where we can look to find out Firmware and other version numbers (if any)?

Thanks,

On my HM94 there is a menu settings option where you can see the unit's GUID and firmware version, along with date of firmware (mine is October 16th).

dsr

What retailers sell the 52HMX84/94? I have only seen the 52HM84 and I was impressed. I am leaning towards the TOSH right now.

I live in Metro-Atlanta, and we have Best Buy, Circuit City, HHGregg, Sears, Costco, Sam's, Fry's, Brandsmart USA and HiFi Buys. I have visited the 1st 3 on the list and have not seen an HMX.

GHOSTING UPDATE

OK. I had a message from my HH Gregg service guy stating that he was contacted by Toshiba and that he needs to place an order for an HDMI module to repair the issue. Unfortunately he was told that part is on backorder and not sure when the part will get in. I have the feeling that Toshiba has probably just recognized the problem and may not have the parts available for the fix but that's just my guess. This would seem to go inline with my post earlier where my friend was told by a Best Buy manager that HDMI issue is firmware related.

More on ghosting.


Hey guys, I may be the only one but I also getting ghosting over component, although it is GREATLY reduced over the HDMI input. HDMI ghosting is horrific (see my previous post with pictures).

I have been trying to collect as much information as possible before I initially contact Toshiba and I think now is the time. For those of you dealing with toshiba or your retailer.. should I go to Toshiba or HHGregg (performance warranty) first?

Thanks
-A

Neo42,

I have same issue in the component inputs too. But it is less obvious. I contacted Toshiba last week. She sent me to the local service center.

xb1032,

Great information to share with the service guy on Friday.

I heard good connection for the xxx94 models. I have a feeling that the xxx94 has the problem fixed.

Originally posted by Neo42
...I may be the only one but I also getting ghosting over component, although it is GREATLY reduced over the HDMI input. HDMI ghosting is horrific (see my previous post with pictures). -A

Are you sure you're getting ghosting over component? The reason that I asked this is because I thought I was getting ghosting too. On some DVDs, I saw a ghost image on Bug's Life and Star Wars Episode I over component. To see if it was the TV, I took those DVDs and popped them in my PC and I saw ghost images on those movies on the computer too. It wasn't quite as noticable since the computer monitor screen was much smaller and the colors weren't as vivid as they were on the Toshiba.

Originally posted by domer67
I know most of the talk here recently has been about the ghosting over HDMI issue, but other than that, are all you guys pretty satisfied with your Tosh's?

I'm still on the fence about returning my Sony LCD. Just ruled out the Mits DLP today, so I'm down to the Tosh or keeping the Sony.

I'm more than likely looking at the 62HM84 since it's what I can get locally.

Overall I'm pretty happy with the television. I previously owned the Samsung HLN617W and I was constantly dissapointed in black levels/contrast ratio. After owning the Toshiba for about a month and a half now, I'm pretty happy with the set. It will give a nice bright colorful picture and good black levels. One thing I wish could improve would be sharpness. It seems like the picture on the Toshiba just doesn't get quite as sharp as the old Samsung. If the HDMI issue gets resolved, I think that sharpness will probably improve. Also, blacks still do not look black when the in a low lit room but there still decent. With the lights on at night, blacks are still good. Also, shadow detail in darker areas still needs improved but what are my options, a CRT or a tube? CRT has burn in and a tube isn't big enough. Lastly, 480i on direct TV provides a poor picture. HDTV looks great. Some shows on Discovery HD and HD Net looks like you you're looking out an open window. Very nice! The over the air HD channels providing standard programs look fine but Direct TV doesn't. Anyone out there pleased with their picture with 480i programming with Direct TV? I knew the new DLPs and LCDs wouldn't produce a good picture with SD material so I expected this as my main focus was DVDs, Xbox, and HD.

Originally posted by domer67
I know this is subjective, but are you guys seeing the 'shimmer effect' on these sets...the appearance of dancing pixels or whatever in bright scenes (particularily the 62"ers).

I didn't really see it on the 52hm84 at BB, but of course everything is more pronounced the bigger the screen. Have not seen a 62" Tosh anywhere.

Reason I ask is because it's very noticeable to me on my 55" Sony LCD that I might trade in for the Tosh. I've been looking at LCD's so much that I haven't really paid attention to how much this is noticeable/or not on the DLP's. I know it's pretty much a physical characteristic of the anti-glare matte screens, but am not even sure what kind of screen the Tosh uses...similar to all others I'm sure. I do not see any of this effect on the Mits DLP, but the screen of course is tucked behind that glare shield.

thx.

I am not sure if what you describe is the effect I occasionally see. I have a 52HMX84. On some HD material via HDMI, I do notice a "shimmering" effect. On ESPNHD Sunday night footbal as well as MNF on ABDHD, on a still shot before snap, the grass looks like it is "glistening" or has slight movement to it. Also, I was watching a DiscoveryHD show, Sunrise Earth where they were showing some trees and the leaves looked like they were "moving in the wind", however no other plants were moving. I switched to component and the leave movement went away. Needless to say - I am still using the HDMI connection as I feel the need to keep a "all-digital" connection.
FYI - I am scheduled to have my HDMI ports replaced due to a faulty port#2, hopefully this includes any fixes or firmware updates to address the "ghosting" issue that is a hot-topic right now. Maybe this shimmer is actually due to the ghosting??

I turned my frustration to fun with this TV. Last night, I tried the LG HDTV/DVD, which has DVI, component and RGB output.

The DVI output was sharper than the component output and thus the ghost effect was more obvious. If I looked closer, I would see similar problem with component input. There is always a brighter line next to the right of the image. In addition, there are green and red line next to white object. The lines are more noticeable with the HDMI input.

I connected the player to a 21" PC monitor via RGB. At 720P, the bright line is actually there but less noticeable. There wasn't any green nor red line with the monitor. The overall PQ was better with the PC monitor. I think there is a convergence problem with Toshiba for a digital TV !!!

After returning the Toshiba 5970, I just took delivery of the Panasonic s97s. I also have the Toshiba 52HM84. I'll connect them via the HDMI port. What are the correct TV and DVD player settings for this combination?

Is it possible that 'some' of the ghosting problems relate to sharpness settings?

If I use, say an Avia test pattern, and turn the sharpness setting up I can create what might be called ghosting, or a halo around sharp lines.
To avoid that it is appropriate to turn down the sharpness setting.

In my case on a 62HM84 I have found a setting of 0 to 14 is acceptable...I have chosen to keep it set at 0.

The Tosh DLP is my top contender for a new TV. Until this "ghosting" issue came up, this set seemed like it could do no wrong with PQ.

I'm wondering if I should get a 94 instead of an 84 if, as KC38 says, it has fixed the "ghosting" issue.

Is Toshiba still making 84s or is the existing stock just being cleared out?

Well I just picked up a Pioneer Elite 59avi DVD player which is supposed to be one of the Best DVD Players out now next to the Onkyo 1000. I'm gonna hook it up through HDMI on my 62hm84 to see if the ghosting is on my set as well. But I thought for a $1,000.00 DVD player I would get a HDMI Cable with it. So Now I have to run to BB to pick one up.

I will let You Know how the New DVD player looks through HDMI & Component in a few.

pdubyu - LOL, both 84s and 94s are new. 94s have been out for a week, 84s or a few months. Main difference is the 94s have integrated HD tuners plus other goodies. Someone did a nice comparison a few weeks ago, so check back through the thread

dsr

dsr15- strange isn't it?

I wasn't even looking at the 94s originally b/c I intended to use a cable box DVR. With all this talk of updated firmware and bad HDMI components, it makes me question if there were other updates besides the tuner integration on the 94s.

Dropping this kinda money for a TV set has really caused me to be get the perfectionist bug. Half of me wants to be on the technological edge, the other half wants things just to work. Crazy.

Really starting to repeat the same posts over and over again, its obvious because most people just read the last few pages of threads i guess.

At any rate i think we need to set up a link out of this thread for strictly name, model number , ghosting over hdmi using which component(satellite vs. dvd player),

I will be forwarding the list to my contact at toshiba in 2 weeks from today.

here is the link:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=4673867

thanks
christopher

I'm afraid that I have to ask what may be a dumb question. I have seen firmware mentioned several times in regards to these sets. What exactly is the firmware and how do you keep it updated? I didn't realize that televisions had firmware.

Well Folks I hooked up My New Pioneer 59AVI DVD Player to my 62hm84 and here is what I noticed...

There is No Ghosting on White Subtitles over Dark Backgrounds through HDMI but there is Ghosting on the same Paused Scene over Component.

The only time I notice a Slight Ghosting on this Set is when there is a Black solid & Dark colored Line or object against a Light Background.

Its not noticable enough for me to want to return the Set if that helps anyone.

I went even further for you guys and put together a Web Page so You can A & B Component with HDMI with pictures I took of the 62hm84.

Check it Out Here and let me know what you think...

http://www.loutrixrecords.com/toshiba.htm

I received my 62HMX94 yesterday and very critically looked at it today with a multitude of signal sources. I can not find any ghosting under any circumstances. I'm a video engineer working in the HD field, so I'm VERY critical about my images...

Tom

I just Posted this in the DVD section as well...

Well I just Spent about an hour Calibrating my 62hm84 with the Pioneer Elite DVD-59avi and Avia and DVE. I set the DVD to 720 and Direct. Then I popped in The Chronicals of Riddick and I must say, I am very impressed. Unlike Spiderman Superbit and Finding Nemo, Chronicals of Riddick was incredibly Clear and Detailed. Even for a really dark movie, the Colors were incredibly vivid and there were no noticable grainy scenes like in allot of dark movies. The Picture was Much Much better than watching a Movie on an HD Channel (Like HBO or Showtime).

After watching this whole fast action movie, I did not see one artifact or macroblocking unlike the other players I owned (Denon 2910 & Samsung HD931) that displayed many with this set. On top of this, the blacks were very very detailed, which was very suprising on this DLP. I also did Not notice any rainbow effects that DLP commonly has when viewing DVD's in dark areas and best of all NO BLACK CRUSH with HDMI. I did not notice the layer change at all (It might of happened when I blinked my eyes). The contrast is incredible as well.

I did notice that the HDMI is slightly darker than Component on my set, but I have not Calibrated my Component input yet so this may be the issue.

I am now extremely Satisfied with my purchase of the 62hm84 and Pioneer DVD-59avi, and will remain with this DVD player until HD-DVD becomes popular.

Originally posted by SandmanX
I went even further for you guys and put together a Web Page so You can A & B Component with HDMI with pictures I took of the 62hm84.

Check it Out Here and let me know what you think...

http://www.loutrixrecords.com/toshiba.htm

Wow, that is really useful and thoughtful of you to provide that, thanks. Well, looks like HDMI definitely wins. I'll be sticking to that for my DVD player, and also PC connection (coming in a couple of months when I get my new system).

SandmanX,
Thanks for the pics and the website. Now I see what some of you are talking about since I have not used HDMI yet. Can other owners comment please?

http://gallery.avsforum.com/showphoto.php?photo=11076&sort=1&cat=501&page=1

This is the picture for my serious ghosting. This pricture also shows the minor ghosting issues which is the usual case for component inputs.

I did see the rings in all setups. But when I connected the RGB output of LG DVD to a PC monitor, there is no ring.

Sharpness is already set to 0.

SandmanX,

Thanks for the pics. My ghosting seems a tad worse than your pics as one of the two ghosts on each side of text on my set is shifted above it more than yours is.
You've now got me worried about ghosting over component now. I noticed on a few DVDs and on text on the Xbox there always seems to be a slight ring around some things. On Star Wars Episode I, I can see a ring around Ben's trainer (can't remember his name). I also obviously see a ring around flick in a Bug's Life in the beginning where the princess' little sister bringer the telescope to him. I then checked out those scenes in my PC and I saw them there too. However it wasn't very noticable because of the picture size so I had to look closely for it and found it was that way on the DVD. One thing I've been disappointed about the Toshiba is that it seems a little soft over component. And I'm thinking the picture should get sharper over HDMI and by your pics it validates that thought. Maybe the picture being a little darker is a good thing. It looked bad with the 5970 hooked up over HDMI because of the darkness, but the direct-tv receiver it didn't seem so bad if the ghosting issue were resolved.

Originally posted by SandmanX
I went even further for you guys and put together a Web Page so You can A & B Component with HDMI with pictures I took of the 62hm84.

Check it Out Here and let me know what you think...

http://www.loutrixrecords.com/toshiba.htm

Just curious..what is your sharpness set at? That image to me looks like artifical edge enhancement when sharpness is too high. Does it look any better or different with sharpness set at 0?

There is a very interesting post concerning how to reduce ghosting over on the DVD Player forum.

The thread is titled "Pioneer DV-59AVI Owners what are your Settings? I Need Help Bad!!!". Posted by SandmanX.

Look for the reply by Bob Pariseau. Post #8. He seems to have a pretty good idea what he's talking about.

I strongly recommend that anyone having ghosting problems check out this post!

I'll sure be following his instructions when I get my new 52HMX84 any time now. :)

The ghosting issue is not settings related, distance from the television, cable-related, or anyother issue other than an internal problem within the set. Some of you may have Toshiba's without the issue but some of us have legitimate problems with our sets. While turning up the sharpness could make the ghost more obvious, the ghosting that some of us are seeing is not a settings related issue. I owned a Samsung HLN617W and never experienced this issue. Let's leave it up the service techs to resolve the issue rather than speculate. Not harping on you but I've already heard the service tech tell me about 5 times that yes he sees the issue but HDMI is new technology and maybe it's just the way things are:rolleyes: .

Anyone else please post their calibrated HD TV settings on their HMX for component??? Thanks!

Originally posted by xb1032
The ghosting issue is not settings related, distance from the television, cable-related, or anyother issue other than an internal problem within the set. Some of you may have Toshiba's without the issue but some of us have legitimate problems with our sets. While turning up the sharpness could make the ghost more obvious, the ghosting that some of us are seeing is not a settings related issue. I owned a Samsung HLN617W and never experienced this issue. Let's leave it up the service techs to resolve the issue rather than speculate. Not harping on you but I've already heard the service tech tell me about 5 times that yes he sees the issue but HDMI is new technology and maybe it's just the way things are:rolleyes: .

I know you're not harping and are frustrated--I don't blame you. I quoted his particular case because his screenshots looked different to me than the ghosting shots a few pages back...looked like edge enhancement to me instead of ghosting.

Bottom line is I agree Toshiba needs to provide a hardware fix as necessary, but I still think user-end troubleshooting and discussion is very valid.

Well to be honest with you, the only time I notice the ring or ghosting is on subtitles. The pictures I provided a few posts up are actually worst looking in the picture opossed to watching the set (due to me having the camera 1 foot from the set). Like I said before, I watched The Chronicals of Riddick last night after Calibrating the Set with the new DVD player and it was the Cleanest most detailed scenes I've ever seen.

Just so you guys know a little background about me, I shoot High Definition Video (mostly 24p) and shoot allot of film as well. I spend a big portion of my time in Transfer/Color Correcting Houses such as The Annex, Nu Shooze, etc. I know what HD is supposed to look Like and I know a good clean image when I see One. I have 2 really sharp shooting DPs (Director of Photography/Camera Men) that I use to shoot HD because I am a Nut when it comes to a Crisp Clean Picture.

This 62hm84 with the Pioneer DVD59avi is pure perfection when watching DVDs.

I'm gonna even take it further and do the calibrating that Bob Pariseau recommended with the Pioneer 59avi in the other thread I started at http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=471258


I will let you know if I get any improvement with the Ringing/ghosting around the subtitles.

has anyone played half life 2 on their toshiba. if so let us know how it looked and post some pics if possible, also i have ati 9600xt card how do i hook it up to my tosh? thanks

I have noticed that my 52HM84 is processing analog audio differently for the HD1 analog audio inputs than it is for the analog audio inputs that are associated with the HDMI port. I have the 52HM84 variable audio outputs
connected to my stereo receiver. I have the HD1 audio inputs connnected to exactly the same audio source as the HDMI audio inputs. (using an RCA "Y" cable). When the audio is sourced from HD1, then I get lots of center channel output. When the audio is sourced from the HDMI audio, I get virtually no center channel, and lots of front left and front right.

Anyone else have any insight to this behavior?

Originally posted by SandmanX
I went even further for you guys and put together a Web Page so You can A & B Component with HDMI with pictures I took of the 62hm84.

Check it Out Here and let me know what you think...

http://www.loutrixrecords.com/toshiba.htm

SandmanX:

Your pictures are great and I see the same results on my 52hmx84. I have question: How do you get to the setup screens for Black, Gamma, Hue, etc.? More importrantly, how do you adjust those values?

I wanna know. I wanna know!

Originally posted by moman19
SandmanX:

Your pictures are great and I see the same results on my 52hmx84. I have question: How do you get to the setup screens for Black, Gamma, Hue, etc.? More importrantly, how do you adjust those values?

I wanna know. I wanna know!


Those gamma Screens are from the Pioneer DVD 59avi DVD player. The DVD Player has many Color correction features. A Must have for this Set!!!!

What is the width of the base on model 46hm84 ?

Anyone recommend which mode to use when watching HDTV, Video games over component, or DVDs? Film or Video? I havent' been able to tell much of a difference. Any smart people have preferences? :)

Well I'm a new 52HM84 owner!!

I've got it hooked up to a Denon 2900 via component (480P)

Nice picture. When adjusted properly with Avia (sharpness set at 30), there is no ghosting visible, unless you go right up to the screen and look closely.

Anyone have any luck with upconverting players over HDMI? Any new news on that front?

DigiPete

I use the S97 Panasonic upconverter via HDMI - looks good for good movies, looks horrible for bad movies... Shrek II and Star Wars Episode II look HD-like, and others are unwatchable.

I am still looking for help - Film mode or Video mode for DVD and HDTV, and what are people's full HDTV settings for this TV? Thanks!

Is there any confirmaiton that the ghosting issue is resolved in the 62HMX94? I am getting a good deal on one and want to be sure before I pull the trigger.

Originally posted by yatra
Is there any confirmaiton that the ghosting issue is resolved in the 62HMX94? I am getting a good deal on one and want to be sure before I pull the trigger.

I have this set and do not see any ghosting.

DIGIPETE,

you should really try to follow the thread from a little higher up, the ghosting issue is related to hdmi input(mostly associated with satellite boxes), not with component.


christopher

Originally posted by drmarengo
DIGIPETE,

you should really try to follow the thread from a little higher up, the ghosting issue is related to hdmi input(mostly associated with satellite boxes), not with component.


christopher

Thanks,

I have read the whole thread, just wondering if anything new has come to light.

hi guys, having problems with my HDMI input...when i watch HD feed or dvds via the HDMI on the 52HMX84, the picture becomes too dark and washed out...so dark that dark objects become greenish in hue...but when i use component the picture is great...any1 has the same experience? im quite disappointed with the HDMI, it's suppose to produce the better PQ because it's all digital connection but turns out to be otherwise.

Hello everyone!

New member, first post and just got the Toshiba 52" DLP delivered this morning! I'm sure I'll have some technical questions that I'll ask (after searching of course) but I am starting pretty simple. What does everyone have theirs sitting on, other than the one made for it? Our house is a 1920's bungalow and I want something not so high tech looking but also something that puts it at the right eye level. Would love some suggestions! Thanks!

Couple of weeks ago, I ordered a Toshiba 62HM84 (62" DLP) from BestBuy which is going to be delivered today.

Yesterday I noticed the price on AMAZON.COM which is in the 2$$$.$$ range, so I took a print out to BestBuy and got a price match :)

Now, I am happy as I got my 62HM84 for a little less than 2$$$.$$ price listed on Amazon.

I am wondering how much did you guys pay? Is this too much for this TV?
Can you please PM me with your prices if you don't mind.

Thanks,

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originally posted by xb1032
The ghosting issue is not settings related, distance from the television, cable-related, or anyother issue other than an internal problem within the set. Some of you may have Toshiba's without the issue but some of us have legitimate problems with our sets. While turning up the sharpness could make the ghost more obvious, the ghosting that some of us are seeing is not a settings related issue. I owned a Samsung HLN617W and never experienced this issue. Let's leave it up the service techs to resolve the issue rather than speculate. Not harping on you but I've already heard the service tech tell me about 5 times that yes he sees the issue but HDMI is new technology and maybe it's just the way things are .
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Actually the amount of ghosting some people are seeing probably has more to do with the all the electronics in your setup, where the wires are set, which cables run around which especially power cables, believe or not the sheilding quality of the cable and quality of surge protector.

I think most people who ever worked at an A/V sotre for any decent amount of time, can tell you when they notice ghosting on a TV they step back and see all or a cluster of the TVs have ghosting issues.

I've even noticed some manufacturers sending RF caps and sheilding clips with there TVs now. These are not for the consumer just to let you know, there in hopes that the retailer will put them on making theres have less ghost in this situation.

The fact is a new HDMI or even a new set is not going to help your problem.

Originally posted by zeicht
hi guys, having problems with my HDMI input...when i watch HD feed or dvds via the HDMI on the 52HMX84, the picture becomes too dark and washed out...so dark that dark objects become greenish in hue...but when i use component the picture is great...any1 has the same experience? im quite disappointed with the HDMI, it's suppose to produce the better PQ because it's all digital connection but turns out to be otherwise.

Did you use Avia/DVE and re-calibrate the TV for the HDMI input? The settings for component and HDMI won't be the same.

I've got the 52HMX84 too, and I definitely don't have this problem (using both Sony NS975 upscaling DVD player over HDMI and Samsung SIR-TS360 over DVI/HDMI).

Is the digital audio out connection on the xxHMX94 optical or coax?

Thanks,
Jeff

Originally posted by whjeffs
Is the digital audio out connection on the xxHMX94 optical or coax?

Thanks,
Jeff

optical

Originally posted by DigiPete
Well I'm a new 52HM84 owner!!


Anyone have any luck with upconverting players over HDMI? Any new news on that front?

DigiPete

I've got a Toshiba upconverting DVD player tied to HDMI 2 and it has absolutely no ghosting. My Dish Network 811 tied to HDMI 1 via DVI to HDMI cable has horrible ghosting.

I just got my 62HMX94 today. Awesome set! The digital output is optical.

Originally posted by dtomlinson
I just got my 62HMX94 today. Awesome set! The digital output is optical.


How do you like the picture SD and HD picture on this set ? Is there a red push in the colors ? I am trying to decide between the Mitsu 525 and this set.

Victor and crew,
Thanks for all of your posts, and responses. I am a TOTALLY satisfied Tosh owner. I have been now for more than a month, and to date I've had NO issues - just a beautiful picture. The last thing on my list is to hook up the PC. I have the DVI <-> HDMI cable (picked up at PCCables.com - great suggestoin BTW! $26!) and an ATI Radeon 9200SE card. It's a clone, but it's certified by ATI, and has their logo on the PCB, so I assume everything is cool with it. (In case you're wondering, I'm not intending on doing any hardcore gaming on the TV with the PC. I just wanted a decent card w/ DVI out on it so I could cruise the web, and maybe watch TV or DVDs through it. Thus, I didn't blow the wallet on something really awesome.)

Anyway, I haven't been successful at setting up Powerstrip for the ATI. If I say to use 1280x720p mode, the desktop is way overscanned, and the graininess is terrible. (The mouse pointer looks huge and pixelated.) If I go to a lower res like 800x600 or even 640x480, the overall desktop shrinks, but still looks very bad. And, if I recall, the icons still aren't visible. I've been very busy, so I haven't had any time to dedicate to resolving this lately. But, I'm getting back to it. Any recommendations? Is anyone using the ATI Radeon cards? Anyone have any preferred settings?

Thanks!
Nate

Originally posted by varkus
Did you use Avia/DVE and re-calibrate the TV for the HDMI input? The settings for component and HDMI won't be the same.

I've got the 52HMX84 too, and I definitely don't have this problem (using both Sony NS975 upscaling DVD player over HDMI and Samsung SIR-TS360 over DVI/HDMI).


i dont think the Avia/DVE calibration discs would work, i tried adjusting the contrast to max and brightness mid level, which should help brighten up the picture, but to no avail....i mean what more could the Avia or DVE do that's not dependent on the available adjustments of the tv?

Originally posted by moman19
I've got a Toshiba upconverting DVD player tied to HDMI 2 and it has absolutely no ghosting. My Dish Network 811 tied to HDMI 1 via DVI to HDMI cable has horrible ghosting.


moman19, whats the model of your toshiba dvd player? 5970? heard some news that toshiba had to recall that model due to PQ problems with HDMI...i guess it's been fixed..

and i suppose we have the same HD receiver...mine is bell expressvu 9100...which is dish network 811, but i get very dark picture over HDMI with my 52HMX84...so dark that dark objects exhibit severe green tinting on them...dont u have this problem? over component, the PQ is great! by the way, is yours HM or HMX model?

I just got my 62" Tosh DLP (62HM84) delivered yesterday.
I was watching a DVD movie, being played through a Progressive Scan Toshiba DVD player connected through Component.
I got a phone call and had to pause the movie for about 10mnts, I noticed that after about 7-8 mnts, the BULB starts to go DIM and then turn back BRIGHT, this was happening in a continious cycle till I started to PLAY the movie again.

I was not sure what happened. Later I did another expirement.
I stopped the DVD, just let the Toshiba players DVD logo to appear on the screen, just as I had feared after about 8-9mnts the picture started to fade and then come back bright, this was happening in a cycle again till I played the movie.

To best describe this effect - It is similar to how the TV slowly warms up and gets brighter when you start the TV for first time. This happens in a cycle, it gets bright and then becomes dull and back to bright again.

I have noticed this happen only when you have a still picture being displayed on the screen for about 10mnts.

I am not sure if it is my DVD player or the TV.

Can you guys try this out and let me know if it is happening with your TV's?

All suggestions are welcome.

Thanks,

I know you are worried but please don't do multiple posts.

Originally posted by zeicht
moman19, whats the model of your toshiba dvd player? 5970? heard some news that toshiba had to recall that model due to PQ problems with HDMI...i guess it's been fixed..

and i suppose we have the same HD receiver...mine is bell expressvu 9100...which is dish network 811, but i get very dark picture over HDMI with my 52HMX84...so dark that dark objects exhibit severe green tinting on them...dont u have this problem? over component, the PQ is great! by the way, is yours HM or HMX model?

Zeicht, Below are my answers:

1. Yes. Tosh 5970. What type of PQ problems have you heard? I sure don't see anything via HDMI.

2. Dish 811 (very buggy) has no apparent darkness differences between HDMA or Component. Only ghosting differs. So I pulled my DVI-HDMI cable and am using COmponent. Very happy with the results.

3. I have the HMX and love it except for the gray bar issue that I have to live with (for the time being) thanks to my SD TiVO.

What does everyone have theirs sitting on I have mine on an OPPLI from IKEA and it fits and looks great...I can fit all my components (Xbox, Cable box, DVD player, Tuner, Center channel) pefectly in it and it has the TV at a perfect height for my couches 32-36" . . . and $99 you can't beat that.

I am considering a 52HMX84-94 purchase. Two things,

1) They seem to be very hard to find and no local stores that have the Toshiba line seem to carry any of the HMX models. Any suggestions as to where I can see one. My big question is about the bezel. From what I have read, the pic quality is identical to the HM series, and I have seen plenty of them. Is the bezel a flat black as it appears in the pictures on line or is it satin, glossy??? True black or charcoal grey.

2) I have noticed that the general picture quality on the Toshiba looks good with the exception of a green cast to the yellows and whites compared to all other RPTVs. Mitsubishi appears to have the same green push to it. Can it be adjusted out to bring a more true yellow? I have not been able to mess with a remote yet but plan on trying next week.

Thanks for your help!!

WSorensen

Both Onecall and Crutchfield have the Symbio DVR in stock...anyone got one?

Originally posted by qpham
What is the width of the base on model 46hm84 ?

It's 42" wide at the base.

Originally posted by stiplit
Both Onecall and Crutchfield have the Symbio DVR in stock...anyone got one?


Being delivered Tuesday (48 hours); anything in particular you will want to know about it?

My purpose in getting the unit is for HD cable local channel broadcast time shifting because the HD OTA antenna via HD Tivo has some pixel breakup that will not be present with a cable card.

"Has anyone been able to remove the gray bars w/o stretching the screen?" was asked a few posts back.

Just got our 52hm84 a couple of days ago and tonight I was playing around with my Time Warner digital cable box and it looks like I've solved it. There is an advanced option on the 'settings' feature where you can set the colors/scheme of the menu. Well right below that there is an option for "SET: TV Border" and you get the option of light/medium/dark. I changed it to 'dark' and exited out and voila! All of my SD borders are now black! NO MORE GRAY!

Not sure if it works on every digital box, but it worked on ours.

Good luck! :-)

Originally posted by moman19
Zeicht, Below are my answers:

1. Yes. Tosh 5970. What type of PQ problems have you heard? I sure don't see anything via HDMI.

2. Dish 811 (very buggy) has no apparent darkness differences between HDMA or Component. Only ghosting differs. So I pulled my DVI-HDMI cable and am using COmponent. Very happy with the results.

3. I have the HMX and love it except for the gray bar issue that I have to live with (for the time being) thanks to my SD TiVO.


moman19, I cant remember what the problem exactly was but toshiba did recall that model...can u do me a favor and look at your tv's manufactured date? mine is august 2004, i wonder if there were software updates coz i sure see a big difference in darkness between HDMI n Component..thanks!

Originally posted by houstonray
"Has anyone been able to remove the gray bars w/o stretching the screen?" was asked a few posts back.

Just got our 52hm84 a couple of days ago and tonight I was playing around with my Time Warner digital cable box and it looks like I've solved it. There is an advanced option on the 'settings' feature where you can set the colors/scheme of the menu. Well right below that there is an option for "SET: TV Border" and you get the option of light/medium/dark. I changed it to 'dark' and exited out and voila! All of my SD borders are now black! NO MORE GRAY!

Not sure if it works on every digital box, but it worked on ours.

Good luck! :-)

houstonray,

Can you provide more specifics? What brand and model of cable box do you have? Exactly how do you navigate to this menu? I have TWC also (NYC - SA8000 STB), and I don't see this option.

Thanks,
z

Do any of these DLP's have decent Standard Definition performance. I looked at the 52HMX94 and it was not good. Also, is the picture sopt on al High Definition

Originally posted by jnowak
Do any of these DLP's have decent Standard Definition performance. I looked at the 52HMX94 and it was not good. Also, is the picture sopt on al High Definition

I have standard analog cable and the picture is fine. A lot of this depends on your source. I have no complaints about mine.

My Toshiba 62HM84 was delivered on Saturday.

First impressions -

I am still waiting for my cable connection and in the mean while I watched "Day After Tomorrow" and it was stunning. I did not make any changes / adjustments to the settings, all of them were set to the factory default. It was very nice, no rainbows and I have not noticed any ghosting either. I connected my Toshiba DVD player through Monster Component cables.

Later I tried a backup version of an Indian movie
(about 65% compression ratio) and it was still very good. Some night/dark shots had less details and lost the sharp edges, although this could be due to the compressed quality of the DVD rather than the TV.

So far I am very satisfied with the TV, I will be getting my Comcast connection today and I will post my HD experiences soon.

Hope my first impressions will help some prospective buyer.

P.S:- I got this TV from BestBuy in the higher $[MSRP Only]. 4yr warranty including Bulb for $400. Got the ST6284 (Matching stand for this TV) for $260 + Tax. If anyone needs the exact price of the TV you can PM me.

Thanks to everyone for your valuable suggestions.

My SD sucks... some channels unwatchable, but HDTV looks awesome. I didn't tell my wife about the gray bars and when they popped up on SD she told me they didn't bother her at all... whew... doesn't bother me either.

Has anyone gotten their 52HMX84 or other set professionaly calibrated? Is it worth it? Can they real do all that much to these fixed-pixel displays?

hi all
I got my 62hm94 last week. The TV is connected with dvd-2910 via HDMI and it had absolutely no ghosting (using a $25.00 HDMI cable).
However, it appears that the pic. is overscanned about 5% (used AVI to calibrate). Other than that, I'm very happy with the TV.

I just hooked up my new Toshiba sd-v592 dvd/vcr player to my 52HMX94. This player has a HDMI out and will up-convert to 720p and 1080i.

NO GHOSTING with the HDMI output.

It's very bright, so I had to turn down the brightness a lot. The picture looks great, so much better then my old dvd player.

Originally posted by zj4x4
houstonray,

Can you provide more specifics? What brand and model of cable box do you have? Exactly how do you navigate to this menu? I have TWC also (NYC - SA8000 STB), and I don't see this option.

Thanks,
z

We have the Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8000HD set top box. It's the one that functions as a DVR. Our salesman told us to make sure that when we traded out our old stb, ask for the most current one and not let them give us a reconditioned one, that way we could get the latest features.

So under the settings button, you push it twice, and get to a listing for setting features like closed captioning, audio, etc. There is an option for the 'set: tv side bars' and there are three choices. Chose 'dark' and haven't seen a gray bar since yesterday.

Hope that helps.

Originally posted by zeicht
moman19, I cant remember what the problem exactly was but toshiba did recall that model...can u do me a favor and look at your tv's manufactured date? mine is august 2004, i wonder if there were software updates coz i sure see a big difference in darkness between HDMI n Component..thanks!

Zeicht, Mine says it's manufactured in August, 2004 too. Bought it in October though. I'm also concerned about other posters claiming there are no ghosts. How can we check firmware/rev. levels?

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originally posted by qpham
What is the width of the base on model 46hm84 ?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's 42" wide at the base.
............................................................ ........................................


Rudy1...are you sure about the size of that base? I've measured the 52HM84 at BB and that's just a hair over 42". I haven't seen the 46HM84 in person, but my calculations (if I remember my geometry correctly) show the the viewable width of the screen is about 40" and from all the pictures, the base looks smaller than that by a few inches.

Originally posted by BJMoose
quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originally posted by qpham
What is the width of the base on model 46hm84 ?
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

It's 42" wide at the base.
............................................................ ........................................


Rudy1...are you sure about the size of that base? I've measured the 52HM84 at BB and that's just a hair over 42". I haven't seen the 46HM84 in person, but my calculations (if I remember my geometry correctly) show the the viewable width of the screen is about 40" and from all the pictures, the base looks smaller than that by a few inches.

I got that measurement from one of the Crutchfield reps.

I hooked up a toshiba sd 5970 via HDMI and picture looked great on both ports--no ghosts--Then I hooked up the Motorola stb 6208 Via dvi HDMI cable from pacific and the picture was too dark--both ports--no ghosts---then I hooked up the box via component and the picture was great!!!-------Sd picture so-so but dvd and HD is awesome------comments????

My service tech checked my TV yesterday and he agreed that the ghosting in my TV is not acceptable. He will reported to Toshiba for advice.

It looks like that more and more xx94 users have reported satisfactory results with the HDMI input. I shall push to get a replacement for this model.

Originally posted by KC38
My service tech checked my TV yesterday and he agreed that the ghosting in my TV is not acceptable. He will reported to Toshiba for advice.

It looks like that more and more xx94 users have reported satisfactory results with the HDMI input. I shall push to get a replacement for this model.

Please let us know how this works out for you. I have similar issues but don't want to waste time if you get an answer like: "No fault found" from Toshiba. Or, "It's within the range of our specs".

Originally posted by erndlc
I hooked up a toshiba sd 5970 via HDMI and picture looked great on both ports--no ghosts--Then I hooked up the Motorola stb 6208 Via dvi HDMI cable from pacific and the picture was too dark--both ports--no ghosts---then I hooked up the box via component and the picture was great!!!-------Sd picture so-so but dvd and HD is awesome------comments????

erndlc, i got the same problem. when i connect my bell expressvu (dish network 811) the picture becomes very dark..so dark that dark objects have a green hue on them, but over component is great! what's your tv's manufactured date? and is it the HMX model?

Where do we look to find the Manufacture date and firmware version of the TV.
I have a Toshiba 62HM84, have seen ghosting on the Comcast cable guide (but i believe this is more related to the way the Guide is designed rather than the TV) Haven't seen any ghosting in movies and other HD content.

Originally posted by sixty2hm84
Where do we look to find the Manufacture date and firmware version of the TV.

Check on the back of the TV, there is a sticker with your serial number and the manufactured date.

zeight---I have 52 hmx94--manufactured oct 14,2004

I am on the verge of purchasing a 62HMX94. I currently have a TW65H80 I bought in late 1998. Are the new DLP tv's really a big improvement in HD picture quality. I have Dish Network via a 6000 receiver. Thanks for info.

Bill G

I just got my 52hm94 and had the Time Warner guy insert a Cablecard but my TV wont recognize it and I can't access it on the menu. Anyone with similar problems???

Originally posted by stiplit
I just got my 52hm94 and had the Time Warner guy insert a Cablecard but my TV wont recognize it and I can't access it on the menu. Anyone with similar problems???

Yes, similar experience with Comcast cable card twice - two seperate visits, two different cards, two different installers. Unable to activate or change channels with card. Unusual quirks, such as one is able to change channels with basic cable, but not with card inserted. Set is 62HMX94. Everything else is working fine. Returned my Symbio pending cable card working so am unable to report how that interacts with set yet.

Hi:

I'm a new member and during the coming week I'll receive my very first HDTV set; a 52HM84. I decided on this one based on site reviews and technology...could've gone with the new JVC lcos, but too expensive for my current budget. Also, at these forums people seem to have some trouble with the new JVCs.

Recently I got the AVIA dvd and practiced setting up my current Sony 27" Trinitron set, very nice. Now, I noticed that with the new HD sets there is this Color Temperature setting which is not mentioned in AVIA.

As this appears to be a preset tuning for the image, is it truly something to be worked on or do you only set the parameters mentioned in AVIA and forget about the temperature setting?

Briefly, this setting changes the color temperature of the image. In television, there is a reference for color temperature called D65 and that is what most-all professional video montors use. It essentially is the white that a black body heated to 6500 degrees Kelvin gives off. The problem is, that it does not make as bright a picture as a cooler (higher numerically) setting and since TV set manufacturers have to compete side by side in the store, they want their set to be as bright as possible. Thus, manufacturers typically use a colder (bluer - higher numerically - typically around 9000) setting to make their sets appear brighter. This, however, alters the color rendition from what all the technical and production people intended. So, the short answer is, use the "Warm" setting for best color accuracy... (On my 62HMX94 the Warm setting is actually still a little too blue in the whites [which is very common on most TVs] and I will have this calibrated at a later date once all the parameters of the set are known and it has aged a bit...)

Tom

HD Digital Imaging Engineer and Colorist



Originally posted by Julio Bro!
Hi:
As this appears to be a preset tuning for the image, is it truly something to be worked on or do you only set the parameters mentioned in AVIA and forget about the temperature setting?

So, this means it is an individual parameter that should be set to "warm", then I should proceed with the AVIA calibration. Correct?

I had my first problem with my Toshiba and thought I would share it here. My 52HMX94 has been great so far besides HDMI being too bright which can be fixed by adjusting the picture settings so I don't consider it a problem.

I pick up the local stations through a silver sensor antenna when I want to see HD programs. On Thanksgiving I watched football this way and set the TV to put the audio out to my receiver. When you do this you have to actually turn the TV speakers off.

The next day I went to watch a HD program and no sound came out of the speakers. I also couldn't get any sound out of my receiver. The really odd thing was that I could get sound from the non-digital / HD channels and from cable but no sound from the digital / HD channels.

After checking and double checking to see if I had a setting wrong I decided to reset the TV. You can do this through the installation menu. I wrote down all my current settings so I could restore them after the reset, didn't want to muck about with all that again.

I put in the code to reset and it tells you to unplug the TV then plug it back in. After doing so and programming the channels again I had sound from everything. Shew! I still plan on calling Toshiba today, mainly to log the problem with them just in case this happens again in the future and a reset doesn't fix it.

Just thought I would share this here in case anyone else runs into this problem.

has anyone been able to get the tv guide working on the hm94 sets? i have a 52hm94 with cable on antenna 1. i can see the channels but nothing shows up on the tv guide. i did the setup thing several times and waited days but no updates.am i missing something?

manny - I have the 62HM94 and have the same problem with the TV Guide On Screen not working. My input is direct cable (no STB) on ANT1. I've called customer service, had a local tech come out, and now they are ordering a replacement card for the TV Guide On Screen. They estimate it will take 2-3 weeks for the part to arrive.

I have tried the following to no avail:
- different zip codes
- unplug/plug back in to reset
- antenna input on ANT2

i'm glad to here that your tv will be fixed. i am going to call toshiba as well. iam also experiencing ghost problems. i hope they will fix this problem as well

Manny,

Do you have a cable box? If so then the TV guide will not populate. I had the same problem, the tech told me that since the cable box has it's own TV guide feature that it will not send that data to the TV. I took my cable box off and now TV guide works.

Shane

I'm having the same TV Guide problem with my 62HMX94. I've had the set connected to an outdoor antenna (ANT-1) for more than a week and the guide has yet to populate. I'm in the Los Angeles market, so I'd be surprised if TV Guide On Screen doesn't have an affiliated station here.

Same location, same set, same hookup (except my antenna is on ANT 2 and I also have Dish Satellite), and same problem here... I guess a call to TV Guide or Toshiba is going to be in order...

Other than that - which is a minor consideration for me since I likely will not use the TV Guide much anyway - I'm still throughly delighted with the set in general. Once it is burned in and calibrated (and I find the definitive fix for the grey side panels in Natural mode), I'll be in Nirvana...

Tom


Originally posted by dtomlinson
I'm having the same TV Guide problem with my 62HMX94. I've had the set connected to an outdoor antenna (ANT-1) for more than a week and the guide has yet to populate. I'm in the Los Angeles market, so I'd be surprised if TV Guide On Screen doesn't have an affiliated station here.

i don't have a cable box as wel and having the same problem. i called toshiba and they gave me a phone number to the nearest service tech to call. i hope they fix my ghosting problem as well

Did you guys call Toshiba about the TV guide problems?

I have logged my problems with them, they want to know about every problem with these TV's. The tech I talked to said they are logging all these issues, I assume they are building a knowledge base and will tackle the most common ones first.

The more calls they get the better the answers will be once they work on the problems.

Yes, that is correct.

Tom

Originally posted by Julio Bro!
So, this means it is an individual parameter that should be set to "warm", then I should proceed with the AVIA calibration. Correct?

For the 52HMX84/94 owners, where are you purchasing them? I live in Atlanta and have yet to see this model in a B&M store.

I bought mine at ABC Warehouse (local Michigan / Ohio chain) . They didn't have it on display but had them at their warehouse. You might want to ask the salesperson if they have them in stock just not on display yet.

I've had my 52hm84 for about a month and since day one, I had noticed a whirring, fan-like noise during quiet passages or when I had the volume turned down in the late evening. Not sure if it got louder or my ears got more tuned to it, but it started getting really annoying. I went back to SEARS and they suggested sending out service tech to diagnose the problem. Being within my 30 day return period, I was more inclined to just return/exchange it, but gave them the benefit of the doubt I put in a service call.

The tech arrived (after a big scheduling mix-up) and despite his lack of knowlege about the set (asked, "is this LCD or DLP?"), he determined that it was not the fan and most likely the light engine. He was not willing to replace the part in a brand new TV and suggest a full exchange. Went back to SEARS and they were very accommodating. Were willing to exchange for the same set, or a different set of my liking. If the noise was still present, I could then get a different set, or he would work with the price to get me a lower price.

The set came on Sunday and while there still is a slicght noise during VERY quiet periods, it is much reduced and no longer an issue for me. Seems there in fact was something wrong with my first set. I'm happy again.

Michael

Originally posted by Shaner1
Did you guys call Toshiba about the TV guide problems?

I have logged my problems with them, they want to know about every problem with these TV's. The tech I talked to said they are logging all these issues, I assume they are building a knowledge base and will tackle the most common ones first.

The more calls they get the better the answers will be once they work on the problems.


No TV Guide on Screen for me either (62HM94 with Adelphia cable card). I have other issues with my new toy :-( Called Toshiba a week ago on a 10 day old set ... still waiting for a call back.

When I turn the set on I hear a buzzing sound. Sort of like an electric razor. Low to no volume it is easily heard 14 ft away. The frequency of the buzzing sound changes quickly every few min and I notice a distortion of the picture ... momentary flicker or shift of the image. I can see rainbow colors in the flicker. Not an input problem. I have confirmed by bringing up a menu screen.

More bad news ... No service tech within 80 miles of the house.

Spoke to four different Authorized Toshiba Techs ... three out of the four think its the color wheel. BTW, the color wheel of this set is not a replaceable item. The whole optical engine has to be changed $$$.

The Tech 80 miles away does not do in home service. Said he has never seen a DLP and has not completed Toshiba's training course on these sets yet. If he is to do the repair he will send someone to pick the set up.

Set was purchased from OneCall. I will ask Toshiba to replace the TV with a new one so as not to put me thru the hassle of going the repair route ... wish me luck.

Sorry to hear that capt! Ask Toshiba for the HMX model since you had so much trouble! = D

Good luck!

Originally posted by Shaner1
Sorry to hear that capt! Ask Toshiba for the HMX model since you had so much trouble! = D

Good luck!

If the color wheel ever does go bad after the set is out of warranty be prepared to replace the light engine.
-----------------------
Name:
OPTICAL ENGINE, PJ-TB25-6

Description:
OPTICAL ENGINE, PJ-TB25-6

Part Number:
23405379

Part Type:
OEM NEW

Shipping Availability:
Usually ships in 4 - 6 days

Price:
USD $2,408.62

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I think most people who ever worked at an A/V sotre for any decent amount of time, can tell you when they notice ghosting on a TV they step back and see all or a cluster of the TVs have ghosting issues.

I've even noticed some manufacturers sending RF caps and sheilding clips with there TVs now. These are not for the consumer just to let you know, there in hopes that the retailer will put them on making theres have less ghost in this situation.

The fact is a new HDMI or even a new set is not going to help your problem.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

You need to read this thread again and think about what you are saying. If the issue were RF interference, cables, power issue then the problem would show up on the component inputs too. If this is an issue like you say, then this would be common and others would be complaining about this in the Mitsubishi, Samsung, and other threads. Doesn't this seem rather coincidental that it's only on the Toshiba DLPs (not to mention Toshiba had known issues with ghosting on their HDMI DVD player when it first came out)? Would people please stop telling us the problem is not TV related unless you have a TV on hand with the issue and can resolve it yourself. I'm waiting on a response/fix from my service tech for an answer. And by the way, I had a friend who just got a set and he has the same issue too.

me and a co work both bought the hm84 they are sweet tv's and after looking at tv's for days while at work the tosh is the best, the mits broke down 2x

Originally posted by capt320
If the color wheel ever does go bad after the set is out of warranty be prepared to replace the light engine.
-----------------------
Name:
OPTICAL ENGINE, PJ-TB25-6

Description:
OPTICAL ENGINE, PJ-TB25-6

Part Number:
23405379

Part Type:
OEM NEW

Shipping Availability:
Usually ships in 4 - 6 days

Price:
USD $2,408.62


Sorry capt and feel some sorry for me too. The tech who visited today (for the second time) ordered a new light engine for my 52HM84. Curiously, the quoted price on my work order was $1648.32

I am dealing with bestbuy guys since I felt the Toshoba tech support was very uninterested to deal with problems.

Originally posted by kriore
Sorry capt and feel some sorry for me too. The tech who visited today (for the second time) ordered a new light engine for my 52HM84. Curiously, the quoted price on my work order was $1648.32

I am dealing with bestbuy guys since I felt the Toshoba tech support was very uninterested to deal with problems.


kriore sorry to hear your having to deal with this stuff too.

What's the problem with your set? Just curious if it has any of the symptoms that mine has? (Buzzing sound with image flicker/distortion when the ptich frequency of the "buzz" changes)

BTW, does anybody know how long it takes Toshiba Customer Support to return a call. It was a week ago that I reported the issue. I phoned again today and was told that Tech Support was working on duplicating the problem???? They did say that I should hear back soon.

Originally posted by capt320
kriore sorry to hear your having to deal with this stuff too.

What's the problem with your set? Just curious if it has any of the symptoms that mine has? (Buzzing sound with image flicker/distortion when the ptich frequency of the "buzz" changes)

BTW, does anybody know how long it takes Toshiba Customer Support to return a call. It was a week ago that I reported the issue. I phoned again today and was told that Tech Support was working on duplicating the problem???? They did say that I should hear back soon.

Mine does not buzz, but has this filckers and distortions to start with which changes immediately to all these solid colors (green, yellow, blue) on the screen one after another. This does not happen all the time, and happens most often with a progressive signal (480p, 720p) through component or HDMI. I recorded the "show" and played it when the tech showed up; this guy (atleast acted like) he knew what he was doing and said it was a DMD board failure but ordered the whole light engine setup anyway :rolleyes:

I'll keep updating how that goes and Toshiba's customer service stinnks big time. Good luck dealing with those morons.

i aslo have the tv guide problem on my 46hm94 with cablevision & a cable card...what phone number are you guys calling to complain to toshiba...i cant find one

Ok folks... I am no expert and this is the first HDTV I have ever had... got a hell of a deal on the 52hm84 about 3 weeks ago and only had to make "one call" -- hee hee hee -- anyway... at that online store... you can get the 5 year extended warranty for like $250 and if you don't make a claim during that time, you get half of it back in merchandise credit... unbelievable? I wanted to get the HMX... but the best deal I could find was going to cost me $700 more than the deal I got... I couldn't justify that extra cost.

Anyway, onto the review. First -- my equipment: matching Toshiba stand -- GORGEOUS!!! -- Dish Network 501 PVR satellite receiver via S-video, Onkyo receiver and 5.1 surround, Samsung SIR-T151 HDTV Receiver via component, Samsung P-421 DVD via S-video, and Xbox via component. I have tweaked the settings with Digital Video Essentials... worth every penny.


DVDs: DVDs are awesome on this set... I have watched the Matrix Trilogy all over again... and WOW... what an experience... I can hardly tell the difference between S-video and Component... The TOSH does a great job with both signals.

OTA HDTV: currently get CBS and NBC (ABC coming soon -- their local antenna blew down... whoops) -- anyway... ABSOLUTELY FREAKING FANTASTIC!!! -- I haven't watched the Tonight Show in 5 years... but now tune in just to see the brilliant High Def -- it is Incredible!!! Even the stupid jokes can't distract me from the picture... I have watched about 4 football games and CSI -- all GREAT, GREAT, GREAT!!!

Standard Definition via Dish Network: The picture honestly isn't that bad... with the stretch modes the TV offers... I never have to look at the grey bars... the stretch is barely noticeable... VERY NICE. What is very important is that you use high quality RG6 coax cable ALL THE WAY from your satellite to your receiver... any cheap, thinner cable will degrade your signal strength... and cause a blocky picture. Now don't get me wrong, Standard Definition doesn't hold a candle to High Def... but it is by no means unwatchable. One interesting thing of note... if I compare the same standard def program on satellite and over the air... the over the air standard def PQ is twice as good. I am guessing the dish compresses the hell out of most of their channels so they can fit more up in that satellite -- something to keep in mind.

XBOX: I have played Burnout 3, Halo 2, and ESPN NFL 2K5. Believe me now or believe me later... the experience is mind blowing. Everything is crystal clear... no controller lag whatsoever... games play and look awesome.

I have never seen a rainbow or ghosting (although I have never tried the HDMI input) and the picture is VERY bright even in a well lit / sunny room. Also, the fan noise is UN-NOTICEABLE... however; there are a couple issues that hamper this from being the perfect set.

Issue one -- there is no PIP (picture-in-picture)... Toshiba uses something called POP (picture-outof-picture)... which means it splits the screen vertically in half and displays two pictures (from different inputs) at the same time. It sucks... royally... for one... you can't get away from the evil grey when viewing things this way... and half of the massive screen is wasted... the top quarter and the bottom quarter are filled with the grey sludge... no way to get around it. I have watched a couple football games at the same time... and it is viewable... but how much nicer it would be if I could use the full screen and have picture IN picture... One solution to this problem would be to get an upgraded receiver that outputs a PIP signal... something that I might consider in the future.

Issue two -- when a scene pans... images will dither... some people call this the "clay face" effect... it is hard to explain... but basically images become a bit pixilated when there is a fast horizontal or vertical pan. Not sure why this is happening... and it does happen on EVERY input... XBOX, SD, HDTV... although it is much more noticeable when viewing a standard definition signal. Luckily, scenes with lots of fast moving action display beautifully as long as the camera doesn't pan fast... Clear as day... it is just when the camera pans quickly that you will notice this "blurring" effect... very strange? Honestly, now that I know it happens... it really doesn't bother me that much. The Picture Quality is better than anything I have ever seen on non-panning media and the screen has almost ZERO glare and black levels are blacker than black – these and other features make up for the pitfalls... I know that sounds funny, but I think owners of this set will agree that this set is one of the biggest bargains when it comes to a quality DLP set.

In conclusion, I couldn’t be happier with my purchase and highly recommend this set to anybody that is looking for an HDTV option. I would also like to thank all the other posters in this thread and the AVS Forum for helping me make my decision… best resources on the web can be found right here!

Originally posted by jph1207
i aslo have the tv guide problem on my 46hm94 with cablevision & a cable card...what phone number are you guys calling to complain to toshiba...i cant find one


1-800-631-3811

emptywallet6

I have the 52HMX84 and use HDMI for DVD player and component for Comcast HD and Xbox. I share your same problems - no PIP sucks big time. I find that Playing Xbox and watching TV - Xbox is just a bit too small to enjoy. PIP would have been really good. Also, the dither on pans - me too - every source, especially DVD and TV the clay face pops up at the slightest pan - bothersome for sure, but I have heard this is a product of all HDTVs. Not sure if it is. I also see rainbows - tons of them at times, which bugs me too, but overall, I believe I will keep this set and enjoy it. DVDs look ok on it, but I see tons of grain even in new movies like Lord of the Rings, but this is to be expected in 480i source I suppose, even with a new upscaling DVD player and HDMI. Gladiator, Shrek II, Star Wars Episode II all look HD to me, but some movies look really, really bad because bad remaster or compression (A Nightmare Before Christmas (any version) and the first Pulp Fiction DVD.

It funny how quickly we can become attached to these big digital beauties. After having nothing better than 27" Trinitron all my life, I'm truly impressed with the 52HMX84 that's graced the living room for the past few days. In spite of the few flaws. And that I like it is pretty much the problem for the moment.

There are still 10 days until the exchange/return period ends and there arn't really any comparable TVs available that I'd want to give this one up for. Some of the ones I would trade for, the "Tosh HM(X)94s, Sammy 74s and Mitsus, arn't being sold in Canada.(There's a huge rant about that just busting to getting out!). The store had a 50" Kirk model on display, but it costs $1700.00 more than I paid for the Tosh.

The store currently has 6 big screen TVs on display. Two LCDs and four DLPs from 42"-52". All of them are being sent signals from DVD players via component cables. And ALL of them have the same ghosting that I'm seeing at home. That is, they had a 1/8th" to 3/16ths" or so boarder surrounding just about every object on the screen. I was somewhat thrown off guard by this because I was planning on going to the store and pointing out to them just how ghost free the other TVs were compared to my Tosh at home. Obviously I couldn't do that with the setup they had there. Of course the real issue with the Tosh 84s is ghosting over the HDMI, and they didn't have any sets using those inputs.

The store is sending over someone tomorrow to have a look at my TV. I doubt he will be able to improve it and expect that he'll probably try to tell me that it's normal, or, like the guy in the store said, "You can't expect perfection".

Which begs the question...What is a reasonable expectation with regards to ghosting when viewing HD using an HDMI input?
Should one expect a razor sharp picture of the same quality that is displayed on a computer monitor? I took a critical look at my computer today and the images are completely ghost free on text and in a few games, including an MMORPG using the same cable company in the same house.
Or is a slight boarder around objects the norm and acceptable?

What is more likely to happen? Will Toshiba acknowledge the ghosting problem and provide a fix/recall? Or will they claim that the 84s are operating within normal and acceptable parameters and ignore customers pleas for help?

I'm sure a lot of us would feel better about our purchases if we knew a fix was in the works!

I will forward this thread over to Toshiba this week, even though they swear I am the only one experiencing this problem.

So please get on the list, if you are experiencing ghosting through the hdmi port.

PS- Once again please dont post questions in the string as im sending this to Toshiba, keep them for the owners thread, no matter how many times u ask people still post.

there is always strength in numbers, and hopefully we can present our issues to the appropriate audience and get this resolved, we payed good money for these sets they should work.


http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=471247&perpage=20&highlight=toshiba%20ghosting&pagenumber=1

Although I am not an owner yet I hope to be in the near future. My question is. What is difference between the HM94 and the HMX94?

Originally posted by bigdaddy10
Although I am not an owner yet I hope to be in the near future. My question is. What is difference between the HM94 and the HMX94?

Search this thread for

KEY FEATURES

You should find a table showing the differences among the four models - HM84, HM94, HMX84 and HMX94.

I would provide a link but this forum won't allow even and INTERNAL link until you have enough posts.

Anyhow - enjoy.

Avia queation:

I am finally about ready to purchase a new Tohsiba 62HM94. Is the Avia set up DVD worth getting? I have read some reviews of it which state in part: "This guide was published in 1999 and about 2/3 of the video calibration tests do not apply to non-CRT TVs (direct view or projection). The Avia Guide DVD is out of date and very user-UNfriendly"

I'd recommend Digital Video Essentials over Avia...never used Avia but DVE was mastered in hi-def and created with digital displays in mind vs. CRT-based displays..easy to use IMO and worth the expense.

Originally posted by --Sclaws
I'd recommend Digital Video Essentials over Avia...never used Avia but DVE was mastered in hi-def and created with digital displays in mind vs. CRT-based displays..easy to use IMO and worth the expense.

I second the DVE recommendation.

I just got off the phone with Toshiba technical assistance regarding my inability to obtain TV Guide On Screen data. While we were trying various things I asked him if trying another zip code during set-up might help. He said that during training with the TV Guide people, they were told that they have had occasions when a particular zip code was omitted from the database causing a no data situation. So I've tried an adjacent zip to see if that works. Might be worth a try for others having a no data situation. I should know more tomorrow.

dtomlinson - I tried about 5 different zip codes to no avail. The best test you can do is plug an antenna into your TV ANT2 and see if you get TV Guide info off of it. If you don't, you're probably in the same boat as me. Not sure where this boat is heading, though.

Who did you talk to at support? I talked to Sharon, I didn't get a last name. (Doh!) Last time I talked to her, she didn't know of anyone else having the same problem. If you talk to them again, feel free to reference me - Dave Robinson as having the same problem on my 62HM94. Maybe we can get these CSRs talking to each other to realize this is not an isolated problem.

tx
dsr

Thank You KRC. The thread under "Key Features" was just what I was looking for. I had previously gone to Toishiba's site and you can't do a compare. I now see all the differences.

Anyone get a Symbio yet? Do you feel it is worth the price?

I am at a loss here as to why they would cost $400. With the intelligence (TV Guide On Screen) in the TV, it's pretty much just a proprietary dumb hard drive. And there are other options available - I could rent an HD DVR (120GB) from the cable company for $10/month.

OK - I would like to own one of these... but in my mind it should cost about $200 bucks. Oh yeah, and my TV Guide On Screen needs to work first.

dsr

Originally posted by dsr15
Anyone get a Symbio yet? Do you feel it is worth the price?

I am at a loss here as to why they would cost $400. With the intelligence (TV Guide On Screen) in the TV, it's pretty much just a proprietary dumb hard drive. And there are other options available - I could rent an HD DVR (120GB) from the cable company for $10/month.

OK - I would like to own one of these... but in my mind it should cost about $200 bucks. Oh yeah, and my TV Guide On Screen needs to work first.

dsr

Returned my Symbio; could not get it to playback or even verify it recorded as programmed. The operation of it is a little "clunky" as well, although I did not have long enough to use it much (returned it within two days because it did not work). I did notify Toshiba customer service, but they said they were only interested in television issues.

My opinion is that the price is high unless one has only OTA channels (no HD cable DVR or satellite HD DVR).

Originally posted by drmarengo
I will forward this thread over to Toshiba this week, even though they swear I am the only one experiencing this problem.


http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=471247&perpage=20&highlight=toshiba%20ghosting&pagenumber=1

What garbage! I wrote 3 e-mails to their customer service. I finally received a response stating that I should place a service call. I've been waiting to place the service call for fear that the technician who arrives will claim the issue is too minor to repair. Maybe that's why you're the "only one...".

You've built an interesting list of unhappy owners. We all can't be crazy.

Has anyone had luck getting this issue truly resolved by a service tech? I will bet the only fix is going to be a swap out of the TV and doubt Tosh will cave in too easily.

Originally posted by --Sclaws
I'd recommend Digital Video Essentials over Avia...never used Avia but DVE was mastered in hi-def and created with digital displays in mind vs. CRT-based displays..easy to use IMO and worth the expense.

Thanks! I looked at that but haven't seen it referred to much. I'll give it a try.

For those interested, I noticed the DVE disc is now being sold at Best Buy (after I bought one off ebay).

Just got my 52HMX94 yesterday. I now have everything hooked up and will wait to see if the TV Guide info loads. I hope so because that was a major selling point for me on this set. I know the info is in the signal in my area because I also have a Panasonic DMR-E85H DVD/Hard drive recorder with built in TV Guide and the guide loads on that.

Current configuration: digital SD/HD cable provided by Millennium Digital Media in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. I've got the cable split for now with one going directly to the TVs Antenna 1 input and the other going to the Motorola HD cable box (will be upgraded to cablecard as soon as they get more in stock). Cable box connected to tv via component cables. I set the box to output 1080i (it was better looking than 720p). The Panasonic DMR is also connected via component cables. Played The Fifth Element superbit dvd tonight, it looked pretty close to HD.

I'll report back here on the TV Guide issue once I see mine load (or not).


Jeff

Jeff, I just placed my order for a 52hmx94 yesterday and will be interested to hear your results. I have Comcast SD/HD cable through the dual tuner DCT6412 DVR and have been very pleased with its performance on my current set. My plan is to continue to record through Comcast's TV Guide and the box. That's one of the big reasons I decided on this combo. I will be pretty disappointed if the box's TV Guide function no longer works with the 52hmx94. Looking forward to your review.

I have no problems with TV guide on my 52HMX94.

I have standard analog cable and an antenna hooked up, with TV guide picking up listings for both. Works fine...

It may take longer then 24 hours to populate. I'm not sure exactly how this works but I think it's one of 2 ways. I think you have to go through the TV guide setup, then turn the TV off and back on. It then gives you a choice of the local provides to pick from. OR (because I can't remember) it takes 24 hours to give you the choices, then it populates.
On mine it listed Comcast analog and digital, along with Wide Open West analog and digital... Actually there were 3 choices for each, with the 3rd being cable ready TV.

Thanks for the info Shaner. In my experience with the problem, you never get to the point where there is a choice of local provides to pick from.

Does anyone with an HMX94 have the TV Guide problem?

So far in this thread I think it's been only the HM94s.

Originally posted by tcimpidis
Yes, that is correct.

Tom

Thanks for the advice man.

Now, I have this concern with the unit and would like to share the experience.

Last night I went to a friend's home to see his new JVC HD-52Z575, with D-ILA tech. It looked nice, but we noticed that the TV usually chose the Panorama mode for widescreen material and something weird happened. Whenever the camera is panning or moving around, the side images got like when seeing things through a fish lens. A convex type image rolled from the edges and is correct at the center of the screen.

We tested the other modes and they didn't show that effect. The most enjoyable was the Cinema mode, which stretched the image to fill the whole screen with very little disproportion, just some minor cutting at all sides.

The effect was best seen at the beggining of Star Wars: Episode I, when the Jedi ship is approaching the Federation space stations. He used a JVC DVD player with component video connections.

Does this convexing of the sides happen at any of the Toshiba's ratio modes?

I just had the Toshiba reps here since my 52HM94 is not recognizing the Cablecard from Time Warner NYC. They determined it was a problem with the cablecard being compatible and suggested I have Time Warner bring a new cablecard. We'll see what happens. Anyone have an HM94 or HMX94 with a Time Warner Sci Atlanta cablecard working?

I've had a 62HMX94 for about ten days, still no TV Guide On Screen. I've never been offered a choice of data providers. It just says no data available. I'm in the Los Angeles area and get my signal from an OTA antenna with excellent signal strength.
It's been 24-hours since I changed the zip code in an attempt to get TV Guide data. Still no information.

Anyone have a pdf file of the manual for the 62HMX94 ?? I've tried the Toshiba site for the last couple of days and the site for the manuals has been unavailable.

Thanks,
Mikef5

Originally posted by --Sclaws
I'd recommend Digital Video Essentials over Avia...never used Avia but DVE was mastered in hi-def and created with digital displays in mind vs. CRT-based displays..easy to use IMO and worth the expense.

In looking for information on DVE I noticed that there are two DVEs...the regular one and Digital Video Essentials: High Definition 1080i. Which one is it best to get? Digital Video Essentials: High Definition 1080i is quite expensive. Is it worth it?

Hello All,

I'm a longtime lurker who finally has something worth posting (although I guess I'll leave that for you to decide).

First I'd like to say what a great site this is...I've spent many hours perusing the posts and getting as much info and insight as possible. Until recently I was the proud (and I use that term loosely) owner of a 15-year old 27" Zenith. I've always been an HDTV fan but I couldn't bring myself to pull the pin on getting a new set; the old one still worked and there were other higher priority things to spend money on (putting clothes on the children, for one). Well, this past August my dreams came true: the Zenith passed quietly away and is now interred at the local county dump. You know how they say 'be careful what you wish for: you may get it'? Well, it's partly true. With the old set out of the house I had permission from my wife to search for a new set. After much window shopping, web browsing, and forum lurking, I decided to go with a Toshiba 46hm84. I’ve been extremely happy with the set: HD programming is just amazing. My wife and I find ourselves watching stuff we would never have otherwise, just because it looks so good (ballet, anyone?)

However, one of my wife’s caveats to getting this set was that she had to be able to hide it. She’s not a big fan of the TV dominating the family room. Not only that, the week before the set was delivered, my 7-year old was in the family room swinging a slinky around over her head. Need I say more? So now I needed an entertainment center with doors.

Now I’ve looked at entertainment units in the past, and they were never what I was looking for. They were either cheaply constructed, too small, or would not accommodate my AV equipment the way that I wanted. ‘OK’ I say to myself … ‘I have a table saw, router, planer, and more ambition than common sense … I’ll make my own entertainment center’. And so the journey began.

10 weeks and 160 labor-hours later I was done. I constructed the unit completely from quarter-sawn white oak and to say that I lost sleep over this is a gigantic understatement. I dreamt about it ALL NIGHT LONG for the entire duration. I even started sleepwalking; leaving our bedroom and heading for the garage where I was sure some disaster had befallen my project. My ever-patient wife soon tired of this and, toward the end of the project, started stopping me as I left the bedroom with ‘where are you going … and before you answer, stop and THINK’. As soon as I paused for two seconds I would realize that I was being a lunatic and get back into bed. Only to spend the rest of the night dreaming about oak and stain and sawdust and measuring tapes …

Anyway, I think it was worth it. Here’s a link to the finished project. Thanks again to everyone who helped me select the TV (whether they know it or not).

gallery.avsforum.com/showphoto.php?photo=11289&sort=1&cat=500&page=1

sharonf,
the 1080i version of DVE is on a D-VHS tape only (720p also available). It is not available on DVD since DVD is only a 480 format.


MissionMan,
EXCELLENT job on the entertainment center. I would have thought that came from a really nice($$$$) furniture store!



Jeff

Originally posted by bigdaddy10
Although I am not an owner yet I hope to be in the near future. My question is. What is difference between the HM94 and the HMX94?

My father used to work for Toshiba in the CE areas and he always told me that when the Toshiba product number contained an "X" it signifies that the product contains parts that have a higher tolerance and the build is done with extra care. Not sure if this is still the case but the HMX models may have better QA in addition to the extra features listed in the "key features" list.

TV guide info is slowly getting there. Yesterday afternoon (after being connected about 32 hours) it had loaded channel icons. This morning it finally gave me the choices of cable provider listings. It had 8 different choices! 6 were for Comcast, 2 were for my cable company, Millennium Digital Media. So I chose their listing and now we'll see how long it takes for all the program info to load up.
Keep in mind this is using cable directly into the tv's Antenna 1 input, no cablecard yet. I am still splitting the cable and using the HD Motorola box for premium channels. The thing that I think is dumb about it is the TV guide CAN be set up to work with the cable box, but only if the box is hooked up through Antenna 1 or Video 1 (composite) inputs. You can't get the HD signal that way! So I am stuck with doing it like this for now until the cablecards come in.

Jeff

Is the convex image issue something known?

Overstock.com currently has DVE for 16 dollars and change, including shipping, and with no tax. The SKU is 2884867.

Tom

Originally posted by sharonf
Thanks! I looked at that but haven't seen it referred to much. I'll give it a try.

Anyone know what settings you need to play Halo 2 w/ component connection in widescreen on the 52HM(X)94?

Originally posted by Ragingbull2380
Anyone know what settings you need to play Halo 2 w/ component connection in widescreen on the 52HM(X)94?

On the Xbox?

Set it to Yes for 480p, 720p, 1080i
Set it to Widescreen.

Then go on xbox live (if you have it) to download the patch to fix the widescreen problem that halo 2 has. Read about that in the Gaming forum here.

Do I adjust those settings in the XBOX dashboard or on Halo 2 options menu?

dashboard

Just a quick note I just received my new Sony DVP-NS975V hooked it up with an HDMI cable and no ghosting. With star Wars V or star trek Voyager DVD My set is the 52HM94. I will do more checking after we are through with this Christmas tour of homes. Thanks for all the help out there

Originally posted by whjeffs
TV guide info is slowly getting there. Yesterday afternoon (after being connected about 32 hours) it had loaded channel icons. This morning it finally gave me the choices of cable provider listings. It had 8 different choices! 6 were for Comcast, 2 were for my cable company, Millennium Digital Media. So I chose their listing and now we'll see how long it takes for all the program info to load up.
Keep in mind this is using cable directly into the tv's Antenna 1 input, no cablecard yet. I am still splitting the cable and using the HD Motorola box for premium channels. The thing that I think is dumb about it is the TV guide CAN be set up to work with the cable box, but only if the box is hooked up through Antenna 1 or Video 1 (composite) inputs. You can't get the HD signal that way! So I am stuck with doing it like this for now until the cablecards come in.

Jeff

So far I have about 2 days worth of programs downloaded to the TV Guide.


Jeff

I'm having a nuisance issue and was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on this. I have the 62HM84 and a Dish Network 921. With the HDMI port connected from the 921 to the TV, the TV will not start up correctly...the red light goes solid at first, but then starts blinking steadily and no picture comes on. If, however, I unplug the TV, unplug the 921, plug the TV back in, turn it on, THEN plug in/turn on the 921, the set works fine.

I have a startup sequence programmed into my pronto to turn the TV on first, wait a second, then turn on the 921...same issue. I also tried it the other way (against the recommendation of the Toshiba user manual) with the 921 on first, then the TV, but same result. Am I missing something here with the pickiness of the HDMI port, or does this seem like a possible hardware issue? Any thoughts?

Anyone who has the 52HM94, does it have the game mode?

To me the key is the ability to record OTA stations as well as cable. Cable companies don't include OTA tuners in their STB so an HD DVR will be limited to the channels offered by your cable company. For me this is important because I only get CBS-HD and ESPN-HD from my cable company but get all the major networks plus WB and UPN in HD OTA. Symbio is a major reason I'm considering the Tosh over other DLP sets. I'd love to hear how the combo is working. I think OneCall is offering a package deal on a Tosh DLP and Symbio.

Originally posted by dsr15
Anyone get a Symbio yet? Do you feel it is worth the price?

I am at a loss here as to why they would cost $400. With the intelligence (TV Guide On Screen) in the TV, it's pretty much just a proprietary dumb hard drive. And there are other options available - I could rent an HD DVR (120GB) from the cable company for $10/month.

OK - I would like to own one of these... but in my mind it should cost about $200 bucks. Oh yeah, and my TV Guide On Screen needs to work first.

dsr

Originally posted by Ragingbull2380
Anyone who has the 52HM94, does it have the game mode?

Yes It does. It is under the preferences in the menu.

Hello, just a few ? for the 52hm84 owners. What kind of zoom modes does the tv have for viewing 4:3 material? Also I have read several posts about ghosting and was curious is this an issue with cable hdtv or just satellite? And one more, how does xbox perform (lag? pq?) on this set? THANKS FOR YOUR TIME

Just got the tv, Anyone else having problems with dvds looking pixalated and blurry? will all dvd look like this? maybe its just my dvd player?

Originally posted by NickC
Just got the tv, Anyone else having problems with dvds looking pixalated and blurry? will all dvd look like this? maybe its just my dvd player?

Likely will depend on the DVD. Examples for me of incredible quality have been Riddick, Star Wars Ep II, Gladiator. One that was not very good was Jurassic Park..haven't tried many others yet. An advantage, and in some cases disadvantage to a set of this image quality is when source material is top notch, you see it.....and when it is poor--same thing.

Hello, just a few ? for the 52hm84 owners. What kind of zoom modes does the tv have for viewing 4:3 material? Also I have read several posts about ghosting and was curious is this an issue with cable hdtv or just satellite? And one more, how does xbox perform (lag? pq?) on this set? THANKS FOR YOUR TIME

i use theaterwide 1 when watching 4:3 material. as far as xbox i have no complaints at all its awesome looking, all the espn games don't fill up the whole screen though, still this tv is sweet! superbit movies look awesome, im waiting for sm2 supposidely has a good transfer

I'm not sure if I can ask this, but for those that have the 52HM94....where did you purchase it? I'm having trouble finding a retailer that has it at a store so I can see it first before I buy it. If you can't post the store, please send me a PM with the store name and price if you want. Amzn has it for 2560 w/o tax or shipping. Thanks.

I can say for a fact that xbox games at least halo 2 and nhl 2005, NHL 2k5 look amazing

Hi all, I'm new to the forum and I'm looking to buy the Tosh 62hm84. I've looked at Best Buy and other local retailers but the online prices are so much better. I'd be more comfortable with buying local but can't seem to justify that extra money. Can I rely on the Tosh warranty in the first year? Any recommendations on a company to buy an extended warranty from. There seem to be many when I did a search. Any big reason I should go with the 94 series? The cable card is of no interest to me since it only has one way communication and I'll need the set box anyway. Any info you can give to "keep me out of trouble" would be appreciated.

Thanks

FYI: This weekend (12/4/4) we bought a 62HM84. Naturally, I cannot name the large retailer. Paid $3050 + 250 for a four year service plan, which includes bulb replacement. Also got a $150 store credit "gift" card, and upgraded to digital cable service ($10/month) which afforded me a $120 rebate. Free delivery as well. Tried a store advertised here, too expensive. Called twice, got two different price quotes. Both higher than the price from the big retailer I bought from. Now, I may have fibbed a bit to the retailer in regards to what price the other "authority" was offering, but they did beat the fictitious price. I believe I got the Best Buy available...

Ted

Just like to say that 90+ days after getting my 52HM84 I am just as thrilled with it as I was when I picked it up. What a great tv.

"FYI: This weekend (12/4/4) we bought a 62HM84. Naturally, I cannot name the large retailer. Paid $3050 + 250 for a four year service plan, which includes bulb replacement. Also got a $150 store credit "gift" card, and upgraded to digital cable service ($10/month) which afforded me a $120 rebate. Free delivery as well. Tried a store advertised here, too expensive. Called twice, got two different price quotes. Both higher than the price from the big retailer I bought from. Now, I may have fibbed a bit to the retailer in regards to what price the other "authority" was offering, but they did beat the fictitious price. I believe I got the Best Buy available..."

Thanks for the info. I did go to the same retailer on 12/2 but the best they would give me on a 62hm94 version was 3799 (200 less than posted price). At the time I didn't ask about the about the 62hm84 but their web site cost less the 200 would still put it way over Amazon's price. They had the same other gift card etc. Maybe I need to try negotiating for the 62hn84 or just buy from Amazon.

I like Amazon's prices but you can't return the TV

Ted, I believe I'm dealing with the same retailer for my 52hm94 and I'm wondering about your warranty with the bulb replacement. Was that an addendum to the warranty? Is it in the original wording? Was it typed or handwritten and initialed? I can't find any reference to it in the copy of the warranty I received. I haven't actually purchased the warranty from them yet for that reason, but told them I'd get back to them about after the weekend. Thanks for any info you can give.

Originally posted by TH3_FRB
I think OneCall is offering a package deal on a Tosh DLP and Symbio.

This package deal is being offered by Toshiba. Crutchfield is doing it and the local store I bought my 52HMX94 at is doing it as well so any store that carries the Symbio and compatible TVs should be doing it.


Jeff

Hello to all--

I have enjoyed reading through all the posts on this thread and made the decision to purchase the 52HM84. I've had it for about a day now and so far been most impressed with the first DVD I watched with the kids(Finding Nemo) on a non progressive Apex DVD player through component. The picture was top notch.

I also added a HD DVR through Comcast for $9.95/month. I'm was a bit disappointed that my football game was broadcast only on Fox SD. The station is constantly advertising that they broadcast in 720p but I can't get it. I suppose that is a local problem. Anyway I watched it in SD and wasn't all that impressed. I haven't calibrated the TV yet(need to go back through the thread and look for some settings).

My questions at this point is there a different set up for SD that I should use as opposed to HD? I'd just like things to be a little less grainy.

In addition, I am now in the market for a good DVD player. I don't want to drop a bundle on it since blu ray and/or HD DVD seem to be right around the corner. I've seen a lot of talk on the Sony DVP-NS975V, Denon 2910 and the Zenith 381. Any suggestions here?

The only other problem I have seen with the TV is when watching SD there is slight bend to the letterboxes on each side as they move down the TV with the bottom being slightly wider than the top. Does anyone know of a fix for this or do I need to get it professionally calibrated?

Oh and I bought my TV at Sears.. They matched the price of a very low on line retailer. I paid $599 for 5 year extended warranty but that includes bulb replacement, annual check up and free professional calibration so I thought that was a pretty good deal considering the excellent price I received.

Hoping I can contribute once I learn a bit more about the set.

Cheers!

For your SD, drop the sharpness under 10, it should help. And give it some time... I am on my second DLP and i personnaly found that it takes about 100 hours for the whole thing to break in. The PQ on SD should be a bit better after this time.

I have the Zenith DVB318 and can tell you it does a great job at 1080i on this TV through components or HDMI.

Bowing on 4:3 is normal with all microdisplay and cannot be fixed by calibrating the TV.

Mr. Moose & Mr. Petems;

Regarding pricing:
I suggest going back to the store and simply telling the saleshuman what the best deal you've found elsewhere is. Try this; stand there staring at the TV, and "call" the "other" store on your cell phone. The cell phone does not actually need to be turned on for this exercise. You will be pleased to hear the "other" store offer you the TV at a very good price. Ask the saleswoman to beat that price. When paying, and the salesperson encourages you to buy an expensive ($499) "protection" plan, tell them that you'll just find one online for much less. I suggest paying $250 for a four year plan. (Because that's what I paid...) Free delivery, of course. Then, if there's any problem in the future, the store will pick it up for free as well. My hope is for you to get the BestBuy possible on this purchase.

Regarding the "protection" plan;
The salesman told me that it included the bulb. I looked online and didn't see an exclusion, so it's probably covered. As long as I don't rent the TV out, or leave it out in the rain. I'm really not too concerned, if I have to buy a new bulb in a few years, no problem. It's like our owning two Jaguars, if you worry too much about what it really costs for the good stuff, you probably shouldn't buy it in the first place. After all, it's only money...

Ted

I'm looking into pricing on the 62hmx94 now, and so far the best I've found is an online authorized retailer for $4332.00 shipped, no tax, and a 5 year extended warranty.

Should I negotiate further?

Just wanted to say I've had my 52HM84 for 4 months now and I'm still completely happy. I have not had any problems with the set so far. HD and DVD look awesome. With tweeking even my SD Tivo looks decent. Have never seen "rainbows" but have experienced the "blurring" a few times when the camera does a pan on some programs. I don't know whether all DLPs do this or if it is unique to Toshiba. Overall I'm more than satisfied.

Originally posted by GSOgymrat
Just wanted to say I've had my 52HM84 for 4 months now and I'm still completely happy. I have not had any problems with the set so far. HD and DVD look awesome. With tweeking even my SD Tivo looks decent. Have never seen "rainbows" but have experienced the "blurring" a few times when the camera does a pan on some programs. I don't know whether all DLPs do this or if it is unique to Toshiba. Overall I'm more than satisfied.

I have the same setup. I too see blurring when watching the SD TiVO...that's expected. But never else, especially on good HD. You shouldn't see any blurring when watching a good HD program source.

Anyone here have any familiarity with the Symbio device? I've got satellite (dish network) service and it appears to be useless with it. The problem I'm seeing is as follows:

1. Dish network HD receiver (811) does not have coax/tv out. It only sends HD out on composite and dvi outputs.
2. Symbio apparently only records on ANT1, ANT2, and Composite Video 1.

Both of these situations are ridiculous, and totally midunderstood by me when I bought the device. The DISH network receiver limitation was one I probably could have found out about, except that I didn't think it mattered. The Symbio limitation, however, is absurd. The big claim of the device is that it can record HD content, so why can't it record that content across any HD input (apart from whatever you can get across ANT1 and ANT2? It doesn't make sense.

Am I just missing something, or is the situation simply that if I keep this device, I can only record SD content? Any ideas here would be much appreciated.

-Ravi

Now after many weeks of deciding on my 52HM84 I am agonizing over the choice of DVD players. I was going to go with the Zenith DVB318 but am uncertain that I will get the right version and with all the problems with the HDMI connections on these sets I'm thinking I want something that will upconvert on component also. How can you tell when purchasing if the the Zenith is the older model with the firmware that upconverts on component?

I have also considered that many of the problems users have with the HDMI are due to HDMI to DVI conversion. So I am trying to eliminate that complication and go with a player that has HDMI but again one that will upconvert on component if I encounter the problems some of the others have with there HDMI ports.

After reading through some of the threads in the DVD section I've learned about this I-O AVLP2 Divx player which is networkable and I believe will allow me to play MP3's and AVI's from my PC and send them to my HT. Since you can't connect a PC to the Toshiba, this is also appealing but there seem to be other issues with this player and I'm not sure of the upconverting capabilities.

I'd also like to keep things under $300 as the advancement in technology will probably make these players obsolete in 12 months.

I know that Samsung and Toshiba have had some issues with there DVD players. Have these been resolved? It seems like if I purchase the Toshiba SD-5970 with the HDMI interface, it would be a perfect match for the 52HM84 since it is the same manufacturer and then maybe add the AVLP2 later for the networking capability.

Suggestions?

I responded to your question in the Symbio thread. Basically, the Symbio is designed to work with the internal tuners in the TV. Along with a cablecard it allows a single solution to record all cable (analog, digital, HD) and OTA content. There is no reason for someone with sat to get a Symbio since you can just get an HD Tivo which has all the tuners and recording options you would get with a Symbio and cable card.

Originally posted by rdesai
Anyone here have any familiarity with the Symbio device? I've got satellite (dish network) service and it appears to be useless with it. The problem I'm seeing is as follows:

1. Dish network HD receiver (811) does not have coax/tv out. It only sends HD out on composite and dvi outputs.
2. Symbio apparently only records on ANT1, ANT2, and Composite Video 1.

Both of these situations are ridiculous, and totally midunderstood by me when I bought the device. The DISH network receiver limitation was one I probably could have found out about, except that I didn't think it mattered. The Symbio limitation, however, is absurd. The big claim of the device is that it can record HD content, so why can't it record that content across any HD input (apart from whatever you can get across ANT1 and ANT2? It doesn't make sense.

Am I just missing something, or is the situation simply that if I keep this device, I can only record SD content? Any ideas here would be much appreciated.

-Ravi

I just got off the phone with Toshiba with whom I was trying to follow-up on my 62HMX94s failure to load TV Guide data. I was told that they just received a memo indicating that there is a problem and that it will be resolved with an automatic download. The estimated date for the fix is the last week of December. From the posts I'm seeing, some people have gotten their's to work, with very slow data aquisition, and others, like me, have received no data. Hopefully this automatic download will resolve the problem.

Dan

Originally posted by cbell2112
.......It seems like if I purchase the Toshiba SD-5970 with the HDMI interface, it would be a perfect match for the 52HM84 since it is the same manufacturer and then maybe add the AVLP2 later for the networking capability.

Suggestions?

I have the 52HMX84. I have the Toshiba 5970. I experience terrible ghosting when I connect my DishNetwork 811 sat/OTA HD receiver via DVI-HDMI. So I dropped back to Component cables and the picture is flawless. I'm very picky by nature, but I consider this issue fixed.

I connected the DVD player to the TV via HDMI-HDMI and it too, is flawless. So I never have seen ghosting on a DVD with this setup. So HDMI works great with the DVD player and stinks with my receiver...go figure.

I cannot determine if the receiver ghosting is caused by the DVI-HDMI cable, the receiver itself, a mismatch between the TV and the receiver or just plain VooDoo.

But I'm happy the way everything now works. BTW, (and this is a given) a good OTA HD picture looks much better than an SD DVD even after the upconvert. But the DVDs look much better than any other form of SD TV. In fact, iut's easy to forget that it isn't HD with the right disk.

Dan - Interesting... so the TV can get code fix downloads through broadcast? I wonder how that all works...

Thanks for the update. I have the same problem as you - no TV Guide data. In my case, they have ordered a replacement TV Guide On Screen card. I just called the Toshiba CSR, and told them what you were told. The rep put me in a 'research' category and I'll get a call back. I hope this fixes itself as you said.... I don't want anyone opening my TV and fiddling around!

Do you have the name of the Toshiba rep that told you about the automatic download?

tx
dsr

DSR,
I didn't get the reps name. He seemed to think it was a firmware update, but wasn't really sure how it worked. He said there was a memo, but he couldn't find it. He asked another CSR who relayed the information. I'm a bit concerned that if I'm not exchanging data with TV Guide now, how am I supposed to exchange data to get the update? I guess we'll see in a couple of weeks.

Dan

Originally posted by moman19
I have the 52HMX84. I have the Toshiba 5970. I experience terrible ghosting when I connect my DishNetwork 811 sat/OTA HD receiver via DVI-HDMI. So I dropped back to Component cables and the picture is flawless. I'm very picky by nature, but I consider this issue fixed.

I connected the DVD player to the TV via HDMI-HDMI and it too, is flawless. So I never have seen ghosting on a DVD with this setup. So HDMI works great with the DVD player and stinks with my receiver...go figure.

I cannot determine if the receiver ghosting is caused by the DVI-HDMI cable, the receiver itself, a mismatch between the TV and the receiver or just plain VooDoo.

But I'm happy the way everything now works. BTW, (and this is a given) a good OTA HD picture looks much better than an SD DVD even after the upconvert. But the DVDs look much better than any other form of SD TV. In fact, iut's easy to forget that it isn't HD with the right disk.

Ah, finally, a fellow member that also owns an HMX. :) I too have a 52.

Anyway I also have Dish network HD 811 receiver. I am pretty sure I tried to use DVI/HDMI to connect with it, but only or a brief moment just to compare...anyway I use components (supplied by Dish installer) with it. Looks gorgeous with the HD channels.

I recall that when I used the DVI-HDMI cable, the pic had no issues as you describe, except that I think I noticed the colors over component were slightly better.

As for DVD, I have a Denon DVD-1910. I use DVI-HDMI on that and it looks superb. I really dont have any of the issues so many on this board complain about (macroblocking, green push, etc.). I guess I'm a happy guy. :D

Oh, and console gaming totally rocks. I have a kickin' sound system too (hell yeah, no self-respecting gamer IMHO would use TV speakers).

Originally posted by dtomlinson
I just got off the phone with Toshiba with whom I was trying to follow-up on my 62HMX94s failure to load TV Guide data. I was told that they just received a memo indicating that there is a problem and that it will be resolved with an automatic download. The estimated date for the fix is the last week of December. From the posts I'm seeing, some people have gotten their's to work, with very slow data aquisition, and others, like me, have received no data. Hopefully this automatic download will resolve the problem.

Dan

My TV guide data is still not loaded completely. I get todays listings and most of tomorrows, but then there is no info for Wednesday and Thursday, but then it's almost all there for Friday through next Monday. Weird.


Jeff

OK, the beauty got delivered today. Incredible, right out of the box... Couple of questions, though: (novice operator) Can it go 16:9 automatically? As in, I put in a DVD, and it has the "bars". I put it in mode 2, and it went full. Do we have to do that every time we watch a DVD? Suggestions on hookups, and how to set it up best. Using a Pioneer 5.1 receiver, Toshiba DVD & VCR. HD cable comes in a couple days. This TV is so cool, I can't believe it.

Ted

How will you get HD program source? Cable? Dish? OTA? The 84 does NOT have an HD OTA tuner so you'll need to get this from one of the aforementioned sources. It really gets you back into watching the networks.....especially football games.

So far, using our regular cable, and DVD player. Regular cable looks very good, DVD looks sublime. (Digital cable gets hooked up Thursday) Popped in the "Elf" DVD, and it did go auto widescreen. My James Taylor DVD's did not though. I'm sure we'll get it dialed in, but appreciate whatever tips are offered.

Thanks all,

Ted

Originally posted by sayanythingrock
has anyone played half life 2 on their toshiba. if so let us know how it looked and post some pics if possible, also i have ati 9600xt card how do i hook it up to my tosh? thanks

Yes, I am playing HalfLife 2 and it looks absolutely perfect. I'm using the ATI 9800pro with ATI DVI>component dongle and I can get 1152X648 (720p - 60Hz) or 1920X1080 (1080i 30Hz) with virtually no overscan. NOTE: I'm still searching this thread to see if anyone was ever able to get the HDMI input working. I couldn't get HDMI looking good at all, but the dongle looks virtually perfect at the resolutions above. I'll post some pict when I get some time.

Bill

Originally posted by Olivenhain
So far, using our regular cable, and DVD player. Regular cable looks very good, DVD looks sublime. (Digital cable gets hooked up Thursday) Popped in the "Elf" DVD, and it did go auto widescreen. My James Taylor DVD's did not though. I'm sure we'll get it dialed in, but appreciate whatever tips are offered.

Thanks all,

Ted

Ted,

Check this thread out, it explains all you will need to know about the black bars.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=332900

Cheers,
Shane

For a while I have noticed that the picture on my 52hmx94 is off center, this really shows during the THX opening with the blue box. It also shows if I go through the THX video calibration.

Last night I watched Riddick and when the main menu came up I could really tell that the picture was shifted to the left. Also I put on Monday Night Football in hidef and it seemed like the ABC logo and score were too far to the left.

This is probably (hopefully) something that is easily fixed through the service menu, does anyone know if you can adjust the geometry through the service menu?
I don't plan on doing this myself, I wouldn't want to screw anything up... I was just curious.

I called Toshiba and a service tech is coming out tomorrow to look at it.

Anyone else notice this on their set?