Good Lord that cost more than my Xbox (excluding the Mod).... I was hoping to do this as cheap as possiable.

What are you planning to do about switching the digital audio that goes with each video source? If you have a solution for that and only need to switch component, and don't mind getting up to switch sources, there are manual component switches for less than $100:

http://www.svideo.com/com3.html
http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/comp-vid-sw.html#3x1

Well, there is always the Svideo or composite,
for your Xbox, but if you want the quality of the
component connection, you will have to
get a component switch box or switch cables.

You could also get a component to VGA converter,
but I would guess the quality would be no better
than Svideo, IMHO, and could cost a lot.

They really need to give more component connections,
like my Epson 500 has 2 seperate component & HDMI:cool:
Dan

I have this $20 Component Switcher I got from EB World that says it does High Def, I am not sure if it really does. I might give that a try.

Originally posted by HMenke
What are you planning to do about switching the digital audio that goes with each video source? [/url]

Creative External Dolby Digital Decoder DDTS-100, connected to my Klipsch Ultras 5.1's... Was planning on doing a HTPC when first purchased, but sounds excellent anyway

I have a naive question to ask. This weekend I noticed that when the AE700 is connected to a PC (via RGB input) or TIVO (via S-Video), I can't see any light beyond the bounds of the projected image.

On the other hand, when it's connected to the DVD player (via component or HDMI), bars of light are visible above and below films shown in 1:2.35 aspect ratio.

My question is this: Do the images projected by the TIVO and the PC implie that the projector has the physical capacity to mask light beyond the bounds of the displayed image? In other words, why aren't there bars of light on the sides of the 1:1.33 image of the TIVO output (for example)?

Originally posted by REL77
Good Lord that cost more than my Xbox (excluding the Mod).... I was hoping to do this as cheap as possiable.

We offer a HD component switch with professional quality at an affordable price (at least its cheaper than the Xbox :) )
Also has some nice features like remote control and dual outputs for 2 displays.

http://www.video-storm.com/proddetail.asp?prod=CSW02

Originally posted by Abdul Jalib
1. You should just use VGA if possible. The HDMI bugs will be more of an issue when HD-DVD or other things come out that use HDMI. Think about whether you'll need HDMI soon for HD cable TV or satellite. It's hard, but possible, to run either VGA or HDMI 40+ feet.

2. The HS-51 has (-) screen door, (-) dimmer picture, (-) no horizontal lens shift, and (-) higher price but (+) almost no vertical banding, (+) better contrast, and (+) better HDMI. It was mainly the HS-51's screen door and lack of horizontal lens shift that swayed me to the AE700.

3. Zoom is okay, but avoid being at near max lens shift.

4. You should expect some VB to still be there even with the power down and flicker reduction tweaks. I have to look for it on a solid gray screen and don't see it in movies.

5. My projector is close to my head (4 feet) and the noise is slightly annoying when it is in high fan mode. Putting it in low lamp mode (and hence low fan mode) makes it nearly inaudible.

6. The AE700 can compete with about 1 candle worth of light in the room - it cannot compete with indirect sunlight. The AE700 does put out a lot of light, make no mistake.

Feel free to respond too TraderGordo...

So my question after reading the forum is "Are the flaws of AE700 so bad that I should buy something else?" Or are all the negative reviews from those that are looking for the perfect PQ? Are the VB, the white flashes, so bad to make the projector a bad choice?

As I mentioned, I'm a novice looking to buy the first projector. While I don't want to spend a lot, I'm looking for a good quality and value projector that'll last me few years at least. I just don't want to buy the AE700 if the know flaws are going make it unwatchable.

1. I'd like to use HDMI if possible. But will be wiring for component video as well.
2. I'll be installing a power switch for the projector. Assuming this will help with VB
3. mounting the projector 18' from screen and sitting 14' feet away.
Any thoughts?

Thanks.

David

^ In reply to above. I have had my Panny and I have noticed it flash once, and have had one major segment fault which was fixed within a second. I know have over 150 hours in 5 weeks? And is working better now then when I first installed it! For its price it is a bargin!

I got the PT-AE700 based on what I read here, the store setup was terrible, oversized, and washed out. Never owned a projector before and I am very happy with my unit straight out of the box. I also purchased the DVD-S97 and currently using the HDMI cable supplied. I get the white flash but were talking a blink of an eye. I am getting my 700 flashed because I can not because it has to be done to enjoy the "show", very minor. Yes I have cropping issue depending on what DVD your watching, the picture projected is not always in the same area, if this is what cropping is defined as? I dont know. The store I purchased the unit from is sending away a new one to Panasonic to be flashed and when they have it back they are calling me up to exchange out my unit. Anyway 40 some hours in and loving every minute... :)

Originally posted by dyp
So my question after reading the forum is "Are the flaws of AE700 so bad that I should buy something else?" Or are all the negative reviews from those that are looking for the perfect PQ? Are the VB, the white flashes, so bad to make the projector a bad choice?

As I mentioned, I'm a novice looking to buy the first projector. While I don't want to spend a lot, I'm looking for a good quality and value projector that'll last me few years at least. I just don't want to buy the AE700 if the know flaws are going make it unwatchable.

1. I'd like to use HDMI if possible. But will be wiring for component video as well.
2. I'll be installing a power switch for the projector. Assuming this will help with VB
3. mounting the projector 18' from screen and sitting 14' feet away.
Any thoughts?
Thanks.
David

David,
Don't get caught up in the hype and gripe about the AE700.
I've seen different units on a dozen or so seperate occasions and haven't noticed banding once. I am sure if you are told what to look for, and have a unit that would/could display it worse than most ... you may be able to find it. We had a shootout a while back and 15 or so people viewed the AE700 who knew "what" VB is ... but not one of them noticed it.
As far as the white flashes, any AE700 shipped AFTER December 1st will have the latest firmware, thus, shouldn't display white flashes when using HDMI.
Relax ... take what you read here from videophiles with a grain of salt ... and start enjoying front projection!
Good Luck.

pardon my lack of searching or reading the last 200 pages, but I have settled on choosing the AE700 for my upcoming system. If you all don't mind... a couple of questions:

1. Any consensus on the best place to buy one (online) price, service, etc?
2. How is the internal scaler on this unit? How does it do with SD material?

Thanks in advance!

Sandwedg

1. Gotta go check with the forum sponsors. Prices are not allowed to be posted on this forum.
2. The internal scaler is fine. PQ from a regular 480i output DVD player will scale and deinterlace OK if you've never had a good progressive upscaling player. If you have had experience with one though, well, as an example, I have a Denon 2910 and both the scaler AND deinterlacer in the Denon are superior to the Panny's. As I've said though, if you haven't had a good progressive upscaling player before, the Panny will do a fine job for you until you decide to spring for one.

Originally posted by REL77
well, i need to connect my HD Cable Box via HDMI, my DVD player via Component, and that leaves the Xbox without a dedicated connection. I assumed the VGA port would accept this adapter. If it doesnt, is there any adapter it will accept, or am I doomed to have to buy a component switched, or switch the inputs every time I want to play xbox? There has to be some work around?

You could always buy a X2VGA VGA Adapter. I have one and it works perfect. Then you just connect the Xbox to the VGA port...

BUT its a bit expensive too...

Originally posted by djbluemax1
Sandwedg

1. Gotta go check with the forum sponsors. Prices are not allowed to be posted on this forum.
2. The internal scaler is fine. PQ from a regular 480i output DVD player will scale and deinterlace OK if you've never had a good progressive upscaling player. If you have had experience with one though, well, as an example, I have a Denon 2910 and both the scaler AND deinterlacer in the Denon are superior to the Panny's. As I've said though, if you haven't had a good progressive upscaling player before, the Panny will do a fine job for you until you decide to spring for one.


Thanks for the reply. I wasn't fishing for $'s, just general consensus on quality of service, return policy, hassle factor, etc... as most everyone has the same ballpark price.

I am getting an upscaling DVD, still not decided, leaning towards the sony 975, although the malfunctioning tray stories have me concerned.

My question about the scaler has more to do with the WAF and that she is adamant about her and the kids being able to watch cable tv and the kids' video tapes. (one of the major factors for picking the Panny PJ is the lens throw so that I can zoom it way down to help the "look" of SD material, and also help with daytime ambient light.) We have a VCR that outputs S-video, but I have no idea how that is going to look on a FPJ.

Originally posted by SuperRabbit0
You could always buy a X2VGA VGA Adapter. I have one and it works perfect. Then you just connect the Xbox to the VGA port...

BUT its a bit expensive too...

Thats not that bad. Found some for like $65.... Thats not bad at all actually... It really works well, I have never heard or, nor seen this before

Sandwedg
I have an LG lst3510a with OTA HDTV tuner AND upscaling dvd player via DVI/HDMI to my ae700 and the picture is spectacular! I would highly recommend this combo to anyone wanting to receive FREE HDTV signals. I have noticed no white flashes and very few peek-a-boos and practically no VB with this combo.
ENJOY!!!
STB

Originally posted by REL77
Thats not that bad. Found some for like $65.... Thats not bad at all actually... It really works well, I have never heard or, nor seen this before

http://www.vdigi.com/index.php?option=content&task=blogcategory&id=67&Itemid=28

http://www.x2vga.com/

Both of these are incredibly good value for money.

Better quality than the Key Digital XBlasters and clones.

X2VGA is easier to use if you are XBox only (no external power supply needed, direct plug in to XBox).

VDigi VD-Z3 is more universal but requires more complex cabling (external PSU needed and a separate XBox HD AV cable, supplied, is needed). It will transcode 480p/720p and 1080i into a VGA compatible signal (but may not work on some LCD monitors)

VD-Z3 claims it will work with interlaced 480i signals (eg majority of PS2 games) too BUT cautions that the display device (projector/monitor etc) needs to accept 480i over VGA in. Didn't work with my old DILA DSub15 input.

Whatever you do, DON'T GET THOSE "VGA TV Boxes" which only do deinterlacing/rescaling. It does not get the best result since the XBox/PS2 etc will only be sending out NTSC (and not 480p or higher).

I am using my XBox with the AE700 through component input (switched using my AV amp). Works fine for me.

Aside from the cropping issue, have you guys been satisfied with the panel alignment (aka convergence) on the AE700?

Originally posted by Joe Schwartz
Aside from the cropping issue, have you guys been satisfied with the panel alignment (aka convergence) on the AE700?

Mine's off - probably within spec, not a major irritant as its not visible outside of the service screens, though I'd be happier if they'd given me the controls to fix it because I *know* I could do better. ;)

ted

Originally posted by tvted
Mine's off - probably within spec, not a major irritant as its not visible outside of the service screens, though I'd be happier if they'd given me the controls to fix it because I *know* I could do better. ;)

ted

My red/green are perfect. My blue is off, but I didn't notice it till I pulled up the cross hair in the service screen. And even then, it's only noticable if I stand within about 5 feet of my 100" screen. Further back from that and I can't see it (it's off the width of the line, and at first I thought it might be an issue with the lens and not the panel alignment).

Originally posted by Ericbres
We had a shootout a while back and 15 or so people viewed the AE700 who knew "what" VB is ... but not one of them noticed it.

Thanks, Ericbres.

When you did the shootout, did you take a look at the Sony HS-51? Any thoughts?

DYP

Originally posted by dyp
Thanks, Ericbres.

When you did the shootout, did you take a look at the Sony HS-51? Any thoughts?

DYP

I've seen the HS51 at Cedia ... wasn't impressed because they had it on the blackscreen. Saw it last week all by itself for a few minutes. Impressive. Clearly another positive step for LCD front projection. You would have paid at least 2x the amount for the same picture quality 2 years ago. However ... I am personally hung up on the screendoor. For that much money, I am not going to defocus my projector to get rid of it.

As far as the AE700 shootout ... I've done 3 now. AE700 vs. Z3, AE700 vs. PE8700+ and AE700 vs. PT-L500 vs. SP5000.
Clearly my favorite in the price class ... although, I will admit the Z3 is closer to it in my eyes than the Z2 was to the PT-L500.

ericbres...
"Clearly my facorite in the price class"
Was which, the AE700?

Thanks for the clarification

Originally posted by rhwimmers
ericbres...
"Clearly my facorite in the price class"
Was which, the AE700?

Thanks for the clarification

Sorry ... AE700U. So far I have been nothing but impressed with the unit.
I loved it at CEDIA, loved it during the shootouts, was overly impressed with the support it is apparently receiving from Panasonic (per the conversation I had with an Engineer from Asia), and simply very suprised and impressed with how much nicer it looks than anything you could have gotten for $2500 two years ago.
And I have never seen a projector that person after person (who work in the industry) that see it are blown away.

All personal opinions mind you. ;)

Quote From TraderGordo AE700 Tweak Thread

"....There is an entry in the service menu called "Service Mode" which provides many helpful test images. They can be used to check for stuck & dead pixels, as well as PANEL ALIGNNMENT and other potential problems. [NOTE: There is also a second service menu which can be accessed by holding down "ENTER" for three seconds while the "Pic Shift" selection is highlighted in the first service menu. The limited settings in that menu do not seem as useful.]...."

If one wanted to align the panels better how would one do it? I find my red is off. I have been in the service menu but what does one adjust to correct!

It's my understanding you can't correct for panel mis-alignment in the service menu. My 700 is slightly off too - but it's not bothersome - or noticeable from my seated position. I think you may find most 700's are slightly off. Strange that my old Panny 500 had perfect panel alignment.

Can lens-shift affect pixel-alignment?

No, the panels are supposedly bonded in place. I think someone opened up the projector and looked, so that means that even if you were willing to risk voiding your warranty by opening the PJ, there are no screws or anything of the sort to allow you to adjust the alignment.

All you can do is check the service menu to see how far out of alignment they are. If they are too far out, it is possible to send it back but it would probably have to be a pixel or possibly more out of alignment. My blue panels is off by about 1/2 - 2/3 to the other 2 but since blue is the least visibly noticeable, in normal viewing it doesn't really bother me.

Has anyone who contacted Panasonic about the white flash, etc. etc., been contacted as to how to fix or send the unit somewhere or whatever?

Originally posted by dbauhaus
Has anyone who contacted Panasonic about the white flash, etc. etc., been contacted as to how to fix or send the unit somewhere or whatever?

There is a firmware thread ...
But in a nutshell, any unit shipped AFTER December 1 will have the new firmware with the fix. However, it isn't ready for upgrades of existing units in the field yet. When it is ready, your unit will need to be sent into the Panasonic service center.

Originally posted by John Ballentine
It's my understanding you can't correct for panel mis-alignment in the service menu. My 700 is slightly off too - but it's not bothersome - or noticeable from my seated position. I think you may find most 700's are slightly off. Strange that my old Panny 500 had perfect panel alignment.

My secret theory is that this is how SMOOTHSCREEN really works - just misalign the panels by a half a pixel up and down - look no SDE and everything looks "smoother".

:D
ted

The AE300 and AE500 had SmoothScreen too, and not always misalignment.

/David

Originally posted by pinkfloydhomer
The AE300 and AE500 had SmoothScreen too, and not always misalignment.

/David

What? Did yah miss the laughie?

ted

Originally posted by tvted
What? Did yah miss the laughie?

ted

Oh... Sorry, my bad :D

/David

Can someone please post where in the menu you can select SD and HD colorspace ? I've seen the post before but "Search" won't turn it up when I need it .

This may be a deciding factor separating the AE700 from the HS51 .

Thanks for the help,

Scott......................

Originally posted by Scott_R_K
Can someone please post where in the menu you can select SD and HD colorspace ? I've seen the post before but "Search" won't turn it up when I need it .

This may be a deciding factor separating the AE700 from the HS51 .

Thanks for the help,

Scott......................

I asked this before I purchased the 700 and never received a response. I don't think it is possible - I would assume that the 700 assumes HD when fed a 720 or 1080 signal. I haven't seen anywhere to select colour space on the menus. I didn't think you could on the Sony either - is that not so?

Are you planning on feeding it with and upconverting DVD player or HTPC?

ted

Hi Ted ,

That's the problem when threads get this big . Unless the Search engine can find the item , there's no way anyone will go back and re-read everything :(

It is possible for this or any other PJ to "automatically" switch to an HD colorspace when it receives input through one of its Digital ports , but it would have to detect the received signal as BT-709 or the problem will still happen . Simply upscaling an SD DVD in either the player or an outboard device without transcoding the colorspace will still result in a scaled SD image .

This of course will only be a problem when viewing "true" HD content and as Joe Kane announced , this isn't being done by everyone . Satellite and Cable providers are simply scaling 480i content to some HD resolution and calling it HD.What crap !

I think I'll go check some PJ Operator Manuals and see how other firms are handling this :)

Scott....................

Originally posted by Scott_R_K

It is possible for this or any other PJ to "automatically" switch to an HD colorspace when it receives input through one of its Digital ports , but it would have to detect the received signal as BT-709 or the problem will still happen . Simply upscaling an SD DVD in either the player or an outboard device without transcoding the colorspace will still result in a scaled SD image .

Scott....................

I realize ;)
Have you perused any of the threads in the DVD Player forum regarding the upscaling players? This issue is has been discussed in depth there - heck I wouldn't have thought to ask otherwise. :D

All the players output upscaled DVD which of course is SD colour space. Unfortunately many of the displays assume that 720p or 1080i is 709 and do not allow colour space selection. The result of SD space into a HD space expecting unit is depression of the green signal.

I'm not versed as of yet but the solution to this might be HTPC - at least until we get HD-DVD or Blu - Ray (or displays that allow for colour space selction) - unfortunately I do not believe the Panasonic does.

Do let me know how it goes as it is something I am interested in as well.

BTW making good use of that coat and toque up there in Rockwood?:D

ted

"BTW making good use of that coat and toque up there in Rockwood?"

Definitely :D Actually , that photo was taken at a site called Polaris on Little Cornwallis Island in November of '99 . This place is at 76' N (North of Resolute) at a Zinc and Lead Mine and......they had a Home Theatre setup !

Anyways , the Sony manual makes reference to NTSC4.43 which apparently is "effectively 60 cycle PAL" (quoted) .

The Yamaha DPX-1100 has a menu entry for Color Space Conversion :
Auto ; selects the best color space coeficient for the image resolution.
:SDTV ; Color space coeficients for BT.601 type signal
: HDTV ; Color space coeficients for BT.709 type signal.

The Infocus 7205 also has specific menu entries for Color Space ,
Auto ;
RGB ;
REC709;
REC601:

So it looks like some people have thought of this . Hopefully it isn't an omission in the "under $3500 " PJ's :(

Scott................

Originally posted by Scott_R_K
Definitely :D Actually , that photo was taken at a site called Polaris on Little Cornwallis Island in November of '99 . This place is at 76' N (North of Resolute) at a Zinc and Lead Mine and......they had a Home Theatre setup !

Anyways , the Sony manual makes reference to NTSC4.43 which apparently is "effectively 60 cycle PAL" (quoted) .

The Yamaha DPX-1100 has a menu entry for Color Space Conversion :
Auto ; selects the best color space coeficient for the image resolution.
:SDTV ; Color space coeficients for BT.601 type signal
: HDTV ; Color space coeficients for BT.709 type signal.

The Infocus 7205 also has specific menu entries for Color Space ,
Auto ;
RGB ;
REC709;
REC601:

So it looks like some people have thought of this . Hopefully it isn't an omission in the "under $3500 " PJ's :(

Scott................ [/B]

You do get about. Commited to the cold and less urban spaces I gather.

I knew of the Yamaha but not the Infocus.
As for the 700 I've never seen anything published with respect to colour space selection = guess they figure people who buy poor boy PJs don't know where from. ;)

Do you plan on using the HDMI input for DVD (SD) playback?
Can you not colour balance for it - you're not going to get anything more than 8 bits out of DVD anyway.

ted

Thanks to you all here for all your help. My AE700 finally arrived and I got to play with it. I have added pics in my gallery for you all to see my initial set up. Much more clean up and tweaking is still to come, But I wanted to say thanks for every ones help and guidence... Its an amaznig peice of equiptment, thats for sure.

Originally posted by nastyboy
I got the PT-AE700 based on what I read here, the store setup was terrible, oversized, and washed out. Never owned a projector before and I am very happy with my unit straight out of the box. I also purchased the DVD-S97 and currently using the HDMI cable supplied. I get the white flash but were talking a blink of an eye. I am getting my 700 flashed because I can not because it has to be done to enjoy the "show", very minor. Yes I have cropping issue depending on what DVD your watching, the picture projected is not always in the same area, if this is what cropping is defined as? I dont know. The store I purchased the unit from is sending away a new one to Panasonic to be flashed and when they have it back they are calling me up to exchange out my unit. Anyway 40 some hours in and loving every minute... :)

Got the call will have new updated firmware 1.05 AE700 within a couple of days! :) I also confirmed convergence cannot be corrected via the service menu, one must send their unit back for this to be corrected.

Ok, me too.

I decided to go for the Panny and today ordered mine. Thanks to all for your useful comments. I will post info and photo on my setting.
Cheers
Pinco

So let me ask you guys something. Should I wait to see what the prices are on the latest DLP projectors out there, or should I purchase the 700 now?

Why Wait, Purchase now, its not really gonna drop the price of teh AE700 (which can be had for great prices right now)

Just ordered my AE700 Home theater!. Using a 90" 16:9 fixed screen, onkyo 502 amp and 402 dvd player with Polk Audio Monitor 5.1 system. Coming next Saturday. EXCITING STUFF! Just thought Id share that with you guys. *prays there are no f-ups*

Cheers.

O.K., I finally received the HDMI cable from Blue Jeans last night and tried to hook up my Denon 2910 to the AE700.

This is my first experience using either an HDMI cable or an upconverting player.

What I got was a picture that would flash in an out (as in blink between dvd picture and blue screen). I tried changing the settings on the dvd player, I tried turning of both the pj and the dvd player and turning them on in different order (hoping to get the "handshake" mentioned here so frequently).

Does this sound like a problem with the dvd player, projector or cable? Or am I just doing something wrong?

I have no other HDMI monitor to test the cable.

Help!

i had a red picture with banding when i hooked up my upconverting dvd player...then i read the dvd manual and BAM perfect picture.

zyx,

the HDMI connection is very fickle. Make sure that both ends of the cable are securely fastened to the DVD player and the projector. If you're certain that the connection is secure, I would call BlueJean. They should send you a second cable free of charge to use. If it works, then you'll know the problem was with the original cable and you can send that one back. If it doesn't work either than you will know that the cable's not the issue and you can send it back. Then you'll have to determine if the problem lies with the PJ or the DVD player. If you bought the DVD player locally, you could also go there and see if they'll let you borrow or trade for another unit to see if you have the same problem.

Make sure to check your connections first though. A lot of times, the weight of the cable itself can unseat it from the unit.


Stew

I'll give that a try, thanks.

It appears that I am the second person to have the exact same problem with the same dvd player/projector combo.

There was an earlier post in the 2910 owners thread by another poster.

Hey Ericbres... when you did the shootout between the Z3 and AE700 did you notice what projector central claims is true.. which is more vertical banding on the AE700? This was my biggest gripe with my panny 75u.

Originally posted by zyx5432
O.K., I finally received the HDMI cable from Blue Jeans last night and tried to hook up my Denon 2910 to the AE700.

This is my first experience using either an HDMI cable or an upconverting player.

What I got was a picture that would flash in an out (as in blink between dvd picture and blue screen). I tried changing the settings on the dvd player, I tried turning of both the pj and the dvd player and turning them on in different order (hoping to get the "handshake" mentioned here so frequently).

Does this sound like a problem with the dvd player, projector or cable? Or am I just doing something wrong?

I have no other HDMI monitor to test the cable.

Help!

Try changing output resolution on the (upconverting) DVD player, I had this same problem on the VGA input when my computer resolution was set to a non standard output, as soon as I changed the output resolution to 1024X768 the blinking stopped.

So any details as to the issues addressed with firmware 1.05?

Well, I have checked, rechecked and rechecked again my connections (even swapped plugs from one end to the other), no dice.

I carefully read the Denon manual, tried any and all HDMI setting changes that might have cause the problem, no dice.

Scrolled through each and every resolution (480p, 720p and 1080i), no dice.

It would seem kind of hard to justify the expense of an upconverting player if I only use the component output.

I guess I'll try a second HDMI cable to see if perhaps that is the problem.

I just received a Panasonic ET-LAE 700 replacement lamp to have on hand and was pleasantly surprised to find that Panasonic includes a replacement air filter in the box it came in. Maybe this is common, I don't know, but there was nothing in the AE-700 owner's manual that said they would include a new air filter with the replacement lamp.

However, it states in the small instruction manual that came with the lamp that a replacement air filter is included.

Thought I'd pass that along.

That's pretty damn cool.:D

I've read a few posts where people complain about smudge on the inside of the outer lens. Can this be confirmed by any other ae700 owner in here? I've got some sticky looking dust, but no apparent fingerprints, as I've seen others complain about.

How's the return policy on these issues? I mean, it's pretty obvious something happened during the assembly.

Small dust particles on the inside of the lens are normal (if not universal) and do not appreciably affect the picture. Even if you could clean it off, they would reappear. Now dust blobs on the other hand, do affect the picture, but that's another issue.

Originally posted by einaros
I've read a few posts where people complain about smudge on the inside of the outer lens. Can this be confirmed by any other ae700 owner in here? I've got some sticky looking dust, but no apparent fingerprints, as I've seen others complain about.

How's the return policy on these issues? I mean, it's pretty obvious something happened during the assembly.

Originally posted by cpc
So any details as to the issues addressed with firmware 1.05?

It fixes the white flash problem over HDMI. There are also several new choices in the service menu. See this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=4606637#post4606637). Unfortunately it apparently does not fix cropping issues over HDMI.

Originally posted by hitchfan
I just received a Panasonic ET-LAE 700 replacement lamp to have on hand and was pleasantly surprised to find that Panasonic includes a replacement air filter in the box it came in. Maybe this is common, I don't know, but there was nothing in the AE-700 owner's manual that said they would include a new air filter with the replacement lamp.

However, it states in the small instruction manual that came with the lamp that a replacement air filter is included.

Thought I'd pass that along.

Hitch,

Don't forget ... the warranty on your replacement lamp is 90 days from the DATE OF PURCHASE.
Meaning ... if you don't put it into your projector for 6 months ... and it blows within a couple hours ... you are out of luck.

How long have you had your projector? If it's been more than a couple of months, I'd recommend replacing your lamp NOW and putting the original lamp in a box in your closet. You know it works, and you are about out of it's warranty period anyway.
That way you are getting the full warranty on your replacement lamp in case of problems.

Good luck!

Originally posted by TraderGordo
Small dust particles on the inside of the lens are normal (if not universal) and do not appreciably affect the picture. Even if you could clean it off, they would reappear. Now dust blobs on the other hand, do affect the picture, but that's another issue.

I'm not sure what a dust blob is, but what I see is not regular dust particles. They are larger, and looks 'smudged'. On a lens further in I can also see a short hair.

Is there anyway for a retailer to tell if the units they have in stock have the latest firmware?...i.e. all units with serial numbers or ship dates after XXXX have the new firmware. I am looking to purchase this week, but want to get a unit with version 1.05.

I'm not sure what a dust blob is, but what I see is not regular dust particles. They are larger, and looks 'smudged'. On a lens further in I can also see a short hair.

Same here! The 'dust blob' I have is an unsharp clog of dust particles, all the way top-down slightly to the right of the center of my screen. It is particulary manifest in light scenes. I've tried to remove the lens without luck. Because it is unsharp, the blob is not on the lcd panel, but either before or behind it - it may well be in the condensors between the lamp and the lcd panel.

Any suggestions - other than sitting out another 2.5K hours awaiting lamp replacement to ship the unit back - are greatly appreciated! Is there any way that I can open this box without voiding the warranty?

Mark

Originally posted by Bchav
Is there anyway for a retailer to tell if the units they have in stock have the latest firmware?...i.e. all units with serial numbers or ship dates after XXXX have the new firmware. I am looking to purchase this week, but want to get a unit with version 1.05.

Any unit that shipped FROM Japan since December 1st will have the latest version of firmware.
There is a serial number cut-off ... but I'll be darned if I can't find the email.
I'll keep looking.

Does anybody who purchased one of these recently from Visual Apex know if it came with the 1.05 firmware? They apparently have no way of checking their units in the warehouse to know how new they are...

Just for information: I was worried how long a HDMI cable I could use. Everything works fine with a Monster DVI-HDMI adapter and a Supra HDMI-HDMI cable 15m (50ft?) long. The source is a Marantz DV8400 player directly feeding the 700

Originally posted by Ericbres
Hitch,

Don't forget ... the warranty on your replacement lamp is 90 days from the DATE OF PURCHASE.
Meaning ... if you don't put it into your projector for 6 months ... and it blows within a couple hours ... you are out of luck.

How long have you had your projector? If it's been more than a couple of months, I'd recommend replacing your lamp NOW and putting the original lamp in a box in your closet. You know it works, and you are about out of it's warranty period anyway.
That way you are getting the full warranty on your replacement lamp in case of problems.

Good luck!

Ericbres, thanks, but I already did switch the bulbs as soon as I received my spare. Then I put the first one away for safe keeping and reset the lamp hour timer. Hey, I do remember some tips I learned from this board, after all!

On a sadder note, I just replaced my cable company's SA Explorer 8000HD box for the new 8300HD box. It's got an HDMI output and I got a 6' HDMI-to-HDMI cable to connect it to the HDMI input of my AE-700 and...you guessed it, white flash hell.

Now I'm searching through this thread and the tweak thread to find the latest Panasonic telephone numbers to lodge my complaint and get on the firmware list.:(

There should be good news today regarding the white flash issue. I spoke to
Panasonic yesterday and there will be a fix very soon. It could even come today. I will post as soon as I hear something. You can call Panasonic at the
number below.

800-524-1448 then press OPTION 2 on the voice menu.

i'm waiting on an ae700 and i have some questions in regards to setup.

i'll be connecting the ae700 to a comcast 6412 hd dvr stb and my htpc which has an aiw 9800 pro in it. my question is really in regards to which should i connect to which port?

i hear so many issues with cropping and bars and such, that will drive me nuts. i'll be using it for about 50% tv and hdtv and 50% htpc (includes dvd). so i'm looking for some advice.

i mean, i guess logic would tell me that since hdtv is higher res to use the hdmi port for the comcast box and then maybe a dvi to comonent adapter for the htpc? would i gain anything converting from dvi to component on this projector? i know that there is definitely a big difference in pq when going from vga to dvi, does this same difference hold true when passing converting dvi to component?

should i invest in a dvi/hdmi switch instead or just wait and see

i could also use a geforce ti4600, but from what i've read ati's seem to have better luck on these...

any tips, or guidance would be greatly appreciated. i'm trying go figure out my cabling ahead of time so i'm ready to roll once the unit arrives.

/edit

one last question, the ae700 is hdcp compliant right? i ask because i see that the dvi port on the motorola 6412 may require it.

/edit again

okay, i'm confusing upstairs with downstairs, this would actually be connecting to a moto 6208 hd stb.

Hi Everyone,

After lurking here for years and sitting on the fence for just as long, I finally took the plunge and bought myself an AE700.....I'm very happy so far.

I have been able to get a great image connecting my HTPC via the VGA port at 1280x720 @ 60hz......however, I'm in PAL land and would really like to get it running @ 50hz as I am seeing stutter when playing DVD's.

I know the manual says 1280x720 is only supported @ 60hz but was wondering if anyone has had any success??

The manual also says that 1080i over PC input is supported but couldnt get that working at either 50 or 60hz.......anyone had any success with this ??

I've tried searching what I think are relevant areas but no joy so far.

P.S. BIG thanks to all you guys who have unknowingly helped motivate me over many years to finally go the projector route !!

Tex.

Originally posted by texass44
I have been able to get a great image connecting my HTPC via the VGA port at 1280x720 @ 60hz......however, I'm in PAL land and would really like to get it running @ 50hz as I am seeing stutter when playing DVD's.


Texass44,

from my understanding the AE700 is a fixed frequency display at 60Hz. So even if the unit were able to sync to 50Hz, which I think it only does only for HDMI, then I am sure the unit would convert the signal back to 60Hz during display.

With DVDs we are all seeing some amount of stutter: with NTSC and 3:2 pulldown we are trying to fit 24fps to 60Hz and with PAL it is 25fps (unless you have a DVD player that corrects the extra frame) vs 60Hz. Of course for TV signals NTSC has a huge advantage ;-)

This post explains why this is not such a big deal for LCD displays as it is for CRTs for example: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=4505874#post4505874

Thomas

Originally posted by Bchav
Does anybody who purchased one of these recently from Visual Apex know if it came with the 1.05 firmware? They apparently have no way of checking their units in the warehouse to know how new they are...

anybody?

I ordered the AE700 yesterday from Roger at Visual Apex and received it today. Don't know what firmware it has but is mfg date of Dec 2004, I was happy to see that. Also I have to say Roger was very helpful and I would highly recommend dealing with him and Visual Apex. I would like to thank everybody here for all the good imformation,I've read all 204 pages of this topic and probaly hundreds more of others. As far as the projector it kicks ass right out of the box. Although I don't have a screen yet and I'm using a sheet for now to figure out what size screen to go with. This is my first projector and I can't wait to have all dialed in with a nice screen. I'll post some pics when I get everything setup.

Sorry if its already been covered but its very hard to find info in these massive threads.

Regarding the dvi-hdmi PC input cropping does it cut off most of the taskbar? Half of it? Is it really much of a problem when used for games? Also does it crop the image if you use VGA or a component from a PC, if not how much potential quality is lost form not using the HDMI input?

Are there any desktop screens that show the amount of cropping?

I've spent a few hours looking at the AE700 (Hardly any customers so some of the staff sat down and watched Nemo and ROTK on it :)). The only thing stopping me from getting one tomorrow is the PC cropping. I noticed VB but after tweaking I had to look hard to see any in Nemo and couldn't see any at all in ROTK.

Thanks in advance,
iNeLuKi

Panasonc, 800-524-1448 then press OPTION 2 on the voice menu.
UPDATE: THE WHITE FLASHES.
I called Panasonic and talked to Patrick about the white flashes I'm seeing with my HDMI connection and the cropping. He said he knew about the white flashes but this was the first time he'd heard anything about cropping...

He also took my name, my phone number (with answering machine) and my e-mail address and told me that he would probably be getting the word on what they plan to do about the white flashes later that day and he was going to call me to let me know what to do as soon as Panasonc told him.

That was three days ago.

I really love my AE-700, but I consider the white flash problem to be a mechanical defect covered by the warranty. If I haven't heard from Panasonic with a solution to the white flash issue by the end of next week, I'll be contacting ProjectorPeople to return and exchange it for a newer one with the updated firmware (assuming that fixed the problem) and I won't be accepting any excuses.

Panasonic was informed and Patrick was also told about the cropping issue over
a month ago. I know that many have reported both issues to Panasonic. I called a few days ago and mentioned the cropping issue again. I also asked what changes were being made in the new firmware and he said he would know in a day or two.

It crops maybe half the taskbar, but (if I'm remembering right at the moment) you can use the position menu (ae700) to shift it so that you have full task bar and crop the top or some compromise between the two. VGA has no cropping for me (Radeon card) but I know at least 2 people now who have had problems with NVidea cards (I think the problems could be resolved if they used powerstrip).

For instructions on setting up VGA and other tweaks, see this post. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=4606637#post4606637)

Originally posted by ineluki
Sorry if its already been covered but its very hard to find info in these massive threads.

Regarding the dvi-hdmi PC input cropping does it cut off most of the taskbar? Half of it? Is it really much of a problem when used for games? Also does it crop the image if you use VGA or a component from a PC, if not how much potential quality is lost form not using the HDMI input?

Are there any desktop screens that show the amount of cropping?

I've spent a few hours looking at the AE700 (Hardly any customers so some of the staff sat down and watched Nemo and ROTK on it :)). The only thing stopping me from getting one tomorrow is the PC cropping. I noticed VB but after tweaking I had to look hard to see any in Nemo and couldn't see any at all in ROTK.

Thanks in advance,
iNeLuKi

Thanks for that TraderGordo :).

My Panny is on it's way.......Should be here friday.....Way to long.....I can't sleep....

well maybe I will try here instead of a new thread as its specific to the 700... When I ouput to 1280x720 from my HTPC, a 6600GT PCI-E card... I get a green line at the bottom of the screen ,llike another start menu...but it flashes like crazy - almost like a visable refresh rate or something..
Any ideas what causes this? Im using a VGA cable.

Originally posted by rhwimmers
well maybe I will try here instead of a new thread as its specific to the 700... When I ouput to 1280x720 from my HTPC, a 6600GT PCI-E card... I get a green line at the bottom of the screen ,llike another start menu...but it flashes like crazy - almost like a visable refresh rate or something..
Any ideas what causes this? Im using a VGA cable.

Have you run the Auto setup? This is required for best results over VGA (see the link I posted a couple messages back).

Thanks...I ran auto setup - no change, rebooted, no change, ran autosetup again, no change, changed aspect from 16:9 to the other options, it went away in the other choices (Verticle and 4:3) and then I went back to 16:9 and BAM - Problem solved...Ran auto setup again and it re-positioned and all is well!
Thanks a ton!
On to the next problem - BSOD if I install my PVR-150 in my htpc...But thats for another thread # ; )

Thanks trader joe for all the hard work you have done to help this projector kick butt

Originally posted by TraderGordo
VGA has no cropping for me (Radeon card) but I know at least 2 people now who have had problems with NVidea cards (I think the problems could be resolved if they used powerstrip).


Originally posted by rhwimmers
[When I ouput to 1280x720 from my HTPC, a 6600GT PCI-E card... I get a green line at the bottom of the screen.] I ran auto setup - no change, rebooted, no change, ran autosetup again, no change, changed aspect from 16:9 to the other options, it went away in the other choices (Vertical and 4:3) and then I went back to 16:9 and BAM - Problem solved...Ran auto setup again and it re-positioned and all is well!

Ross - It appears as though you succeeded in using the 6600GT card with no cropping using the procedure outlined. Congrats!

I tried the same procedure with an older GeForce 2 card that I inherited, but without success. However, I succeeded in using "Horizontal Sync" adjustment in PowerStrip [per TraderGordo's suggestion] to display the complete Windows desktop at 1280 x 720. Haven't had a chance to assess the effect on DVD playback -- I'll follow up this evening if I have time.

Perhaps an AE700 - HTPC Tweak Thread would be useful?

yeah lemme know if that thread does start up... It seems when i go to MCE and back to desktop it looses its adjustments so I have to go in and change aspect again... I adjusted everything according to the DIY MCE guide, but then when going back to windows desktop its crazy at the bottom again.. No big deal, I will be in MCE all the time once I get it all setup and runnin

Hi,

I am trying to figure what the best sharpness adjustment is and I'm wondering if what I am seeing is normal or not. First, my setup is the AE700 with the Panasonic S97 DVD player and I'm using Avia to calibrate. Note that both the PJ and Player have sharpness controls.

My question is, using Avia's "target" image, when adding sharpness, vertical white lines appears adjacent around the vertical black lines - this is to be expected. Now, when I remove (put both sharpness controls at their minimal values) the vertical white lines disappears BUT extra finer vertical black lines appear on both sides of the original vertical black lines, but not exactly adjacent - a few pixels away.

Is this normal behavior or can this be caused by misalignment or other problem? If this is normal, what would the best setting so that no artifacts or distortion is introduced in the image?

Thanks,
Colin.

Should I calibrate with avia with the pj on "natural" or "normal" or the cinema 2 setting which I prefer?

Originally posted by bmel
Should I calibrate with avia with the pj on "natural" or "normal" or the cinema 2 setting which I prefer?

I think you answered your own question by saying which one you prefer....

Anyone know how avia compares to the MCE setup guide? It seemed to be pretty cool (looked nice - HD picture)..

Also, can you rent or borrow any of the dvd calibration videos? Anyone in IN care to share?

Originally posted by REL77
I think you answered your own question by saying which one you prefer....

That's kind of what I thought, but shouldn't you start with an unprocessed image and then calibrate that. Cinema 1 and 2 are already calibrated to somebody else's idea of a good image.

Owners: has anyone actually sent in their unit for firmware upgrade and had it returned to them with the new version yet?

I just returned home and I got a email from Panasonic stating that they are now doing the firmware upgrade. I know the white flash issue is being corrected but I would love to know what else is being changed. See Email I received below. I will call tomorrow and post the information.

The new firmware upgrade for the AE700 is now available through Heartland Services, Panasonic's national projector repair branch. Call Heartland Services at 913-685-8855, ask for Charles Facemire.

Patrick Steele
Panasonic Technical Support

I've been in contact with Panasonic Canada based in Mississauga, and tomorrow I take in my projector to get the firmware applied. They say they can do it while I wait. Their customer service has been amazing. They have kept me up to date about the fix, once I told them about the problem, and contacted me a few weeks ago to bring in my unit. I'll post a reply when I get it back tomorrow.

We should bug Panasonic for the masking/cropping/overscan issue. Sony is apparently working on this problem for the HS51 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=502330). Panasonic should be doing the same.

Subject: RE: AE700 firmware update
Date sent: Wed, 2 Feb 2005 09:56:49 -0600
From: "xxxx" <xxxxx@heartlandsi.com>
To: <xxx@cox.net>

Mr. xxxxx.

The latest and greatest firmware upgrade is 1.07. And Panasonic has not provided me any information as to what it fixes. Only that this is what I am to be loading on the projector.

Thanks,
xxxx - Technician
Heartland Services, Inc.

Originally posted by dm
Subject: RE: AE700 firmware update
Date sent: Wed, 2 Feb 2005 09:56:49 -0600
From: "xxxx" <xxxxx@heartlandsi.com>
To: <xxx@cox.net>

Mr. xxxxx.

The latest and greatest firmware upgrade is 1.07. And Panasonic has not provided me any information as to what it fixes. Only that this is what I am to be loading on the projector.

Thanks,
xxxx - Technician
Heartland Services, Inc.

hmmm....1.07 :)

wonder what they did, got mine all installed nice and neat last night, hooked up the hdmi to htpc. cropping is there, less than i expected. image is def better than vga by quite a bit. maybe there's hope for a fix in 1.7 or down the road. i'm most anxious to here of people who have to mail/ship there unit in as to how long it takes to get it back. i'm in the pacific northwest, and i think the closest service center is somewhere in california. this really is a sweet projector though. too bad my screen won't be here for superbowl, but oh well. :)

I just spoke to the people at Panasonic service. 1.7 does fix the white flash issue but Panasonic is taking the position that the cropping is normal with this projector. I don't know what else 1.7 fixes and I could not get answers.

How much panel misalignment is too much?

Using Avia's dot patterns I noticed convergence problems and I am wondering if this is acceptable or not.

I am projecting a ~135in picture at a throw of ~15ft (ceiling mounted with downward lenseshift). When looking up close, I see the red bleeding on top of the dots and green at the bottom. The red bleeding is about as large as half the diameter of the white dot (this is a bit more that a full scan line) and a little less for the green.

Also, using a solid gray pattern, I noticed that my image is more red or pink on the ~15-20% of the screen on the left side of the image.

Thanks,
Colin.

Well got my projector replaced with latest firmware rev 1.05, glad to see the white flash over HDMI is fixed but on the new projector whites are pink and blue is way off so they are replacing the replacement on Monday . The new firmware installed is 1.07! So its not a rumor.

Well I just got my HDMI cable installed, running off HTPC (ATI X800 card), I've seen no flashes when watching for about 10 minutes. Does this mean I'm safe? I have one of the first AE700's sold back in October.

Those of you with screens.... How do you go about getting it right on the screen? I measured out the dimensions and projected the image, seemed a bit too wide, the left and top sides were fine, but stretched too far out to the right...Any ideas on how to get it set correctly?
Just got back from da-lite..>WOW what a warehouse! got my 106" screen (14' room) cant wait to get it all mounted up!

Originally posted by PAP
Well I just got my HDMI cable installed, running off HTPC (ATI X800 card), I've seen no flashes when watching for about 10 minutes. Does this mean I'm safe? I have one of the first AE700's sold back in October.

Generally no, only teh Dec 05 and later ones have the newest Firmware

Originally posted by rwestley
Panasonic is taking the position that the cropping is normal with this projector.

I hope you read this, Panasonic: I hate you.

Think we need a sticky with that in the subject...I know I dont have time to read through 206 PAGES of threads!!! I highly doubt they do!

Originally posted by rhwimmers
Think we need a sticky with that in the subject...I know I dont have time to read through 206 PAGES of threads!!! I highly doubt they do!

what about this one? (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=500762&highlight=DV8)

Originally posted by rhwimmers
Think we need a sticky with that in the subject...I know I dont have time to read through 206 PAGES of threads!!! I highly doubt they do!

Need to think of possible thread titles for the cropping issue:

" Panasonic AE700 - lame HDMI cropping is 'normal' "

In other news... Panasonic says
"AE700, not for use as HTPC"

In a Tom brokaw voice - hard to do with ascii text heh

Before I go on I would like to have the choice as far as cropping is concerned.

Panasonic seems to be taking the position that it is not really a problem but a design feature. They claim that the edges are being masked similar to an
aperture plate in a movie theatre.

It is true that theatres do crop the picture with the aperture and the AE700 is
probably doing the same thing. My argument is that we should have choice
of black masking as they call in or not masking (cropping). It should be
easy to turn this feature on and off.

Before I go on I would like to have the choice as far as cropping is concerned.

Panasonic seems to be taking the position that it is not realy a problem but a design feature. They claim that the endges are being masked similar to an
aperture plate in a movie theatre.

It is true that theatres do crop the picture with the aperture and the AE700 is
probably doing the same thing. My argument is that we should have choice
of black masking as they call in or not masking (cropping). It should be
easy to turn this feature on and off.

Originally posted by rwestley
Before I go on I would like to have the choice as far as cropping is concerned.

Panasonic seems to be taking the position that it is not really a problem but a design feature. They claim that the edges are being masked similar to an
aperture plate in a movie theatre.

It is true that theatres do crop the picture with the aperture and the AE700 is
probably doing the same thing. My argument is that we should have choice
of black masking as they call in or not masking (cropping). It should be
easy to turn this feature on and off.

Publishing twice for emphasis or post count? :D
Sorry, couldn't resist.

Are you suggesting that Panasonic is somehow using a physical mask rather than overscanning the image?

ted

Well, I am at an impass.
I need to make my purchase... which will be the AE-700.
I was recently steered to the direction of an iScan HD+ to mate with the Panny from a close home theater buddy. He said it would really help the image, and make a nice video switcher.
I have done quite a bit of searching and the modest bit of info I have gleaned from this site is not completely straight forward.
If you have the DVDO iScan HD+... or have seen it with the AE-700 could you comment on how well the combo worked together.
Mainly, did you see a noticeable improvement in picture quality?
My viewing will about 80% DVD and 20% Hi-Def.

Craig

Originally posted by rwestley
Before I go on I would like to have the choice as far as cropping is concerned.

Panasonic seems to be taking the position that it is not realy a problem but a design feature. They claim that the endges are being masked similar to an
aperture plate in a movie theatre.


It's just a sorry-ass excuse meaning that they screwed up and don't want to fix the problem. If cropping is the normal, it would also have been applied with other inputs (S-video, composite, VGA) as well. I don't really care what the theater does and if and why it crops the image. What I care about is that Panasonic advertises 720p 1:1 mapping and is not delivering. Any other excuses that divert you from the advertised spec is just bull.

can someone tell me how they get their projected picture to fit exactly on the screen? I just got a new screen and its too wide, fits fine left and bottom.....

Originally posted by rhwimmers
can someone tell me how they get their projected picture to fit exactly on the screen? I just got a new screen and its too wide, fits fine left and bottom.....

sounds like you have a keystoning problem. You sure your PJ mount and wall are true and level?

Originally posted by rhwimmers
can someone tell me how they get their projected picture to fit exactly on the screen? I just got a new screen and its too wide, fits fine left and bottom.....

I don't know that you will ever get a perfect match all the way around the perimeter of the screen. I made my own screen exactly 16:9 and when I have the top and bottom of the image precisely aligned, I still have 1/4" overscan left and right.

You may have to choose between a little overscan vs. seeing the whole image but having a little bit of blank screen along two of the edges.

why not just do some masking ?

Originally posted by rday1960
why not just do some masking ?
Sorry to ask a newbe question, but as someone who's never owned a PJ (gonna buy the Panny once my HT construction is done), what material is masking? Is it a tape, fabric with velcro, etc?
Thanks

masking is not a thing but a concept. Use some black material that is straight and wide enough to use to delimit the image area (i.e. basicaly kid of like saying build a frame around the image)

Back to business, firmware 1.07 and the replacement replacement. I also built my own screen using Panasonic's calcs for viewing distance and no matter how much I try I cannot get the picture to fit within the box. The best results for me was to go into the service menu, turn on over scan, I'm using HDMI, and adjust zoom to fit screen using a solid color via the service menu.

Nastyboy, have you noticed any VB since getting the 1.07 firmware?

Thanks.

Originally posted by bob md
Sorry to ask a newbe question, but as someone who's never owned a PJ (gonna buy the Panny once my HT construction is done), what material is masking? Is it a tape, fabric with velcro, etc?
Thanks

Masking is usually made of velvet.
Many people who opt not to spend the money on a high end masking system for their screen, simply cover a board with black velvet and attach it to the sides of your screen with Velcro. The black velvet does the best job at absorbing light and improving contrast.

Craig

Yes. Not over whelming noticeably more on certain shades / colors Grey for me.. Will try to get detailed later.

Different question. Has anyone tried the new SharkTale movie on their 700? It looked soft BUT the major thing was the "trailing" effect when figures moved on screen. At first I thought it was the water effect but then we tried it on my friends X1 and it wasn't there. Try it if you can......I have my 700 with a progressive scan DVD player but I'm not using the progressive on the player. I thought the 700 did a better job. Any ideas?

hmm i dont see that at all wiredman.do you see similar thing when watching other mvoies with motion?also, did you hook your dvd player up to your friends x1 ? you have to eliminate the source as the possible reason for the problem

Originally posted by wiredman
Different question. Has anyone tried the new SharkTale movie on their 700? It looked soft BUT the major thing was the "trailing" effect when figures moved on screen. At first I thought it was the water effect but then we tried it on my friends X1 and it wasn't there. Try it if you can......I have my 700 with a progressive scan DVD player but I'm not using the progressive on the player. I thought the 700 did a better job. Any ideas?

Unfortunately, you might be seeing 'ghosting', an LCD artifact due to slow response time.

How to tell if you are seeing 'ghosting' as opposed to some other artifact:
a) usually most obvious when the moving object is darker than the background.

b) looks like you see mutiple shadow afterimages stuttering behind the moving object/person that look like silhouettes.

c) If the person is dark and the background is very bright, it might not be as obvious. For me, it's most obvious when the background is fairly dark, but the person in the picture is darker. haven't seen the movie you mentioned, but a good example for seeing the ghosting caused by the slow LCD panel response time on the AE700 is a scene in 'Chronicles of Riddick'. The scene is when the Necromongers assault the city and Imam is trying to lead his family to safety on his own. Imam and his family are split up and Riddick appears from the shadows to yank Imam 'round a corner. As Imam is yanked round the corner, it's possible to see several trailing silhouettes of Imam superimposed on the background.

Another example of a scene where ghosting is visible on the AE700 is from LOTR 'Fellowship of the Ring'. In the mines of Moria, after battling the orcs and the cave troll at Balin's tomb, the fellowship comes running out of the tomb into the great hall. As the dark pillars of the great hall move across the screen in this scene, ghosting is visible on the trailing edges of the pillars.

Then again, if the artifact you're seeing isn't ghosting, then I have no idea what it might be.

P.S. for those who don't know what ghosting is on their AE700U's and don't recall having seen it. DO NOT go looking for it. Once you now what it is and see it, you will be able to see it in all sorts of situations where there is movement and your awareness of it will increase, much like people who don't know what VB is and haven't seen it shouldn't go looking for it if they want to stay happy with their PJ.

Originally posted by djbluemax1


P.S. for those who don't know what ghosting is on their AE700U's and don't recall having seen it. DO NOT go looking for it. Once you now what it is and see it, you will be able to see it in all sorts of situations where there is movement and your awareness of it will increase, much like people who don't know what VB is and haven't seen it shouldn't go looking for it if they want to stay happy with their PJ.

I've seen 162 movies (including the 2 examples) and never noticed any "ghosting" on either my Panny 500 or 700. And now I hope (after reading this!) I don't start seeing it. I've got to stop reading these forums and "looking" for trouble!

Originally posted by John Ballentine
I've seen 162 movies (including the 2 examples) and never noticed any "ghosting" on either my Panny 500 or 700. And now I hope (after reading this!) I don't start seeing it. I've got to stop reading these forums and "looking" for trouble!

I see a lot of scaling / deinterlacing artifacts which can vary depending on the scaling source. I can see similar artifacts occurring at different points in the film for example using ZOOMPLAYER -ffdshow-DSCALER5 from my PC vs Progressive from my DVD.

There may be a problem happening where Video sources (usually CG) is mixed in with film sources - LOTR - would be a prime example. It may be because of the 3:2 cadence of film vs. the 30 frames per sec of VIDEO.

Who knows maybe the EE effects are just too much? I find the 700 does add too much sharpening - especially when you consider that too many DVD's have too much EE anyway. Too many don't understand that the "sharpness" of video is in most cases an introduced artifact anyway.

I agree the LCD rise time on the 700 is more than enough for VIDEO/FILM at their frame rates. 300 frames per millisecond gameheads might have issues though.;)

BTW I see a lot of artifacts that most I know never see. What I don't understand is why many of us can't look past these things and enjoy a film.
Some of the my most enjoyable viewing could be picked to death as far as PQ goes.


ted

I have a question and its killing me to wait for the arrival of my new DVD player.
I, of course have the AE-700 and am currently mating it with a nine year old Toshiba 3006 DVD player. I am feeding the panny through S-Video.
I have on order a Denon 2910 DVD player. I will be feeding the image from the DVD player to the projector with an HDMI cable.
The DVD player is supposed to arrive on Friday. Can I expect to see a major improvement in the image with the new player?

Craig :)

Originally posted by suffolk112000
I have a question and its killing me to wait for the arrival of my new DVD player.
I, of course have the AE-700 and am currently mating it with a nine year old Toshiba 3006 DVD player. I am feeding the panny through S-Video.
I have on order a Denon 2910 DVD player. I will be feeding the image from the DVD player to the projector with an HDMI cable.
The DVD player is supposed to arrive on Friday. Can I expect to see a major improvement in the image with the new player?

Craig :)

I had an indirect comment on this in the other thread.;)
Are you planning on using S-Video?:D
.
.
.
.
If HDMI be sure that your machine has at 1.05 in firmware or the flashes will annoy you more than softness.

Just an aside does film look "soft" to you in comparison to video?

ted

Originally posted by tvted
I had an indirect comment on this in the other thread.;)
Are you planning on using S-Video?:D
.
.
.
.
If HDMI be sure that your machine has at 1.05 in firmware or the flashes will annoy you more than softness.

Just an aside does film look "soft" to you in comparison to video?

ted

tvted,

Nope, I will be using HDMI not S-video. That is why I am buying this player. I have firmware R1.05, P1.05 and A1.03. I actually ordered the player before the AE-700 with some speakers and a few of the speakers were on back-order. So, the Denon 2910 should arrive later this week... probably Friday.
So I guess I didn't get from your post whether it would help my picture.



Craig

Originally posted by suffolk112000
tvted,

Nope, I will be using HDMI not S-video. That is why I am buying this player. I have firmware R1.05, P1.05 and A1.03. I actually ordered the player before the AE-700 with some speakers and a few of the speakers were on back-order. So, the Denon 2910 should arrive later this week... probably Friday.
So I guess I didn't get from your post whether it would help my picture.
Craig

Sorry, I was implying a subtext.

Yes HDMI has considerable more bandwidth so the sharpness (high frequencies) you are looking for is more easily conveyed. This is impacted upon by cable length and source of course. DVD is pretty lo rez (line NTSC basically) in my opinion

I believe the 2910 is upscaling is it not? Thus you have the choice of bypassing the AE700's internal scaler - so the choice would be yours. Some also prefer 1080i over 720p which would invoke the AE700's scaler again to bring it down to panel rez.

Many variables to speak of.
There are no guarantees.

BTW, it is deceptive to compare a large TV with a display that might be 4 times its area (FP) as far as sharpness is concerned. Too many rely on picture structure as measure of "sharpness" when frequency response is far more telling.

Then again, there is the eye of the beholder.....
This might be your black level. ;)

ted

Originally posted by tvted
Sorry, I was implying a subtext.

Yes HDMI has considerable more bandwidth so the sharpness (high frequencies) you are looking for is more easily conveyed. This is impacted upon by cable length and source of course. DVD is pretty lo rez (line NTSC basically) in my opinion

I believe the 2910 is upscaling is it not? Thus you have the choice of bypassing the AE700's internal scaler - so the choice would be yours. Some also prefer 1080i over 720p which would invoke the AE700's scaler again to bring it down to panel rez.

Many variables to speak of.
There are no guarantees.

BTW, it is deceptive to compare a large TV with a display that might be 4 times its area (FP) as far as sharpness is concerned. Too many rely on picture structure as measure of "sharpness" when frequency response is far more telling.

Then again, there is the eye of the beholder.....
This might be your black level. ;)

ted

tvted,

Well, the good news is, pretty soon I will be able to give you a first hand review of my findings. ;)
The bad news is, now I have to wait about a week to see it. :(

I will post my findings on this thread. and my other thread titled I just ordered my AE-700 today.

Craig

John Ballentine and tvted,

Yes, unfortunately for me, prior exposure to response time deficiencies in slower, cheaper LCD monitors introduced me to ghosting. Ended up having to upgrade to a Dell 2001FP monitor because the ghosting started to bother me with the previous 25ms monitor even when doing things like scrolling through this forum. The difference in the gray and the blue color format caused ghosting when I scrolled. After a while it got more and more annoying. Having seen it and hence had my eyes 'learn' to see it made it more obvious on other things like the Panny. It does annoy me when I notice it and I'm also pretty sure it is the reason why martial arts movies and fast motion fight scenes appear a little more blurry than on a CRT, but it's still nowhere near as annoying as my previous LCD monitor. When scrolling text screens showed ghosting, I had to get rid of it.

suffolk12000,

You should notice quite a nice improvement with your new Denon 2910. That's what I was using with the 700. Both the scaler and deinterlacer in the Denon are superior to the Panny's, so outputting a 720p image with the 2910 will already gve you a nice improvement. Color saturation with the 2910 via HDMI is great. It would also be a good idea to check the firmware on the 2910 when you get it to see which version it is. The latest version that I'm aware of is ESS 6720-7 I think. The good news is, even if yours has an older version, upgrading it is easy as pie. Just write to Denon's technical service via email and ask for the 2910 firmware upgrade and for me, it took only 3 days to receive the firmware upgrade CD. Stick it in the drive and it does everything for you, then just check to see if the firmware was properly loaded and you're good to go. If you like hacks, there's also a region-free version of updated firmware floating around. Be warned that the region-free version will void your US warranty though. (The region-free is not a hacked program. It the International firmware version that legally does not allow region encoding. Using this firmware in the US is considered a hack though, and voids the warranty)

for more info, you can check out the Official Denon 2910 thread here:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=458229&perpage=20&highlight=firmware%20update&pagenumber=52

Just a post so I can find this thread easily later on........

Originally posted by WXdude
Just a post so I can find this thread easily later on........

In the future, just use the subscribe button at the top of the page. :cool:

Originally posted by djbluemax1

suffolk12000,

You should notice quite a nice improvement with your new Denon 2910. That's what I was using with the 700. Both the scaler and deinterlacer in the Denon are superior to the Panny's, so outputting a 720p image with the 2910 will already gve you a nice improvement. Color saturation with the 2910 via HDMI is great. It would also be a good idea to check the firmware on the 2910 when you get it to see which version it is. The latest version that I'm aware of is ESS 6720-7 I think. The good news is, even if yours has an older version, upgrading it is easy as pie. Just write to Denon's technical service via email and ask for the 2910 firmware upgrade and for me, it took only 3 days to receive the firmware upgrade CD. Stick it in the drive and it does everything for you, then just check to see if the firmware was properly loaded and you're good to go. If you like hacks, there's also a region-free version of updated firmware floating around. Be warned that the region-free version will void your US warranty though. (The region-free is not a hacked program. It the International firmware version that legally does not allow region encoding. Using this firmware in the US is considered a hack though, and voids the warranty)

for more info, you can check out the Official Denon 2910 thread here:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=458229&perpage=20&highlight=firmware%20update&pagenumber=52

djbluemax,

Wow... !! This is great news!
Since my speakers look like they are going to take longer than expected, I had the company send me my Denon 3805 receiver and Denon 2910 DVD player last night. With any luck, I will be able to comment on the image improvements I see Friday night!!!
This wait is killing me. :)

djbluemax, where in Michigan are you?

Again djbluemax1... thanks so much!

Craig

I finally got my AE700 on Friday (Manufacture Date - Jan 2005 with firmware 1.07) and have a DVD-S97 connected to it via HDMI. The picture looks amazing and I cannot see any macroblocking, vertical banding or screen door problems. No dead pixels either. I planned on having a 100" iamge but with the projector on a shelf at the back of my 19' room I am able to adjust from a 70" screen to at least a 120" screen size. Even with the larger screen sizes the picture looks great. After reading some of the posts on this forum I wasn't sure what to expect but I am very happy with my projector.

Originally posted by Nascar Dog
I finally got my AE700 on Friday (Manufacture Date - Jan 2005 with firmware 1.07) and have a DVD-S97 connected to it via HDMI. The picture looks amazing and I cannot see any macroblocking, vertical banding or screen door problems. No dead pixels either. I planned on having a 100" iamge but with the projector on a shelf at the back of my 19' room I am able to adjust from a 70" screen to at least a 120" screen size. Even with the larger screen sizes the picture looks great. After reading some of the posts on this forum I wasn't sure what to expect but I am very happy with my projector.

Where did you order yours from?

I found a Panasonic dealer in Calgary, Alberta Canada that was great to deal with and gave me a decent price as well. I ordered it Feb. 25th and it arrived March 11th

I have had my 700 since the beginning of February, it was manufactured in Jan2005 also but strangely seems to have firmware 105....

Thats OK though, because I have NO VB at all(much to my relief), screen door only when I'm less than a meter from the screen.

However, I do have an issue but it only effects me when i'm reading text or on the Winders desktop.

I cannot focus the entire screen, specifically the bottom left corner seems the worst. If I ignore that corner and try to focus three points across the screen I find there is a very slight difference between far left and far right.

Is this typical?

Oh and it's not effected by lens shift, i've also tried moving the projector to make sure it's as square to the screen as I can.

In all honesty it's a small issue that has no no effect on movies whatsoever. I really am delighted with this pj. If your sitting on the fence....JUMP!!!!!

Now about those filters......

Originally posted by Smegger

However, I do have an issue but it only effects me when i'm reading text or on the Winders desktop.

I cannot focus the entire screen, specifically the bottom left corner seems the worst. If I ignore that corner and try to focus three points across the screen I find there is a very slight difference between far left and far right.

Is this typical?

Oh and it's not effected by lens shift, i've also tried moving the projector to make sure it's as square to the screen as I can.

In all honesty it's a small issue that has no no effect on movies whatsoever. I really am delighted with this pj. If your sitting on the fence....JUMP!!!!!



Yes, I would say it is typical - others have reported this and it is the same for me - I usually 'average' my focus with text on the left and text on the right. Lens shift at its extreme would definitely exacerbate this. It is definitely the quality of the optics at this level.

If you are not using the HDMI port, you might move your PC to that input - assuming the slight cropping is not annoying. You should get a sharper more detailed image (generally speaking) with that input. You could also zoom to a smaller image for surfing if it is text sharpness that concerns you.

ted

guys, are you using and keystone corretion? also , are you projecting staight on? tilted downwards or upwards. and lastly where are you in the throw of that 2x lens ?
i dont have the problem when i dont use keystone and when the projector is straight on and tossing a picture from a position mid axis

otherwise i do notice exactly what your describing but very subtle.

Originally posted by rday1960
guys, are you using and keystone corretion? also , are you projecting staight on? tilted downwards or upwards. and lastly where are you in the throw of that 2x lens ?
i dont have the problem when i dont use keystone and when the projector is straight on and tossing a picture from a position mid axis

otherwise i do notice exactly what your describing but very subtle.

I am using about 60% vertical axis lens shift. PJ squared, centered and leveled to screen. This issue has been discussed in the "big" thread. It is related to lens shift (amount utilized). Throw should have no impact unless the collimation of the light from further back helps but I doubt it with these ratios.

ted

Quick question for you guys? I have a 106" da-lite HCMW installed (and level) and I have my 700 installed on a shelf (level as well) 19' from screen and my image is not quite right, picture is great but the image on the screen is not squared (see attachment) and I don't think this is a keystone issue or maybe it is but when I play with the settings it doesn't help. I am using about 60% vertical axis lens shift

Anyone have any suggestions.

i think some people do not report certain issues with entry level projectors becouse they have different expectations. the 2x zoom lens is a nice feature but it isnt top of the line.

a home theater pc is a great way to go but i never thought of using the projector to surf the web or do much work.this is an interesting idea and perhaps will be somthing to consider once i upgrade to a higher resolution

It's probably cos you are not aligning the projector exactly right.

Even a few mms off would be apparent as exaggerated differences over a long projected distance.

The other thing to check is to see if yr walls are really perpendicular and properly aligned. My contractor noticed that my ceiling height did vary a little so when you first do a visual comparison vis a vis say the lines intersecting the ceiling or cupboard or airconditioner unit, it may look off.

Originally posted by Gator99
Quick question for you guys? I have a 106" da-lite HCMW installed (and level) and I have my 700 installed on a shelf (level as well) 19' from screen and my image is not quite right, picture is great but the image on the screen is not squared (see attachment) and I don't think this is a keystone issue or maybe it is but when I play with the settings it doesn't help. I am using about 60% vertical axis lens shift

Anyone have any suggestions.

Looks to me like the PJ might not be squared to the screen though it may be level.
Have you tried rotating the 700 ever so slightly in the direction of the shorter side (meaning that if the left is shorter rotate the PJ counterclockwise) such that the lens on the shorter side moves further away from the screen thereby increasing the image size on that side?

ted

EDITED more than once because I *know* it reads damn confusing

Originally posted by rday1960
a home theater pc is a great way to go but i never thought of using the projector to surf the web or do much work.this is an interesting idea and perhaps will be somthing to consider once i upgrade to a higher resolution

You might try it now - you might be surprised - in fact your seating ratio at 1.5 to 2x screen width (thus presenting the same 30 to 36 degrees angle of view) might not be all that different from the 17inch that most people utilize.

ted

as i type now im actually working . i spend most of the day and some nights surrounded by my sony 21 inch crts .its like a prison. when i can escape to the theater a couple times a week i consider it my down time.but who knows. next time i turn it on il try to work on a few spreedsheets and see how i like it.

Originally posted by rday1960
as i type now im actually working . i spend most of the day and some nights surrounded by my sony 21 inch crts .its like a prison. when i can escape to the theater a couple times a week i consider it my down time.but who knows. next time i turn it on il try to work on a few spreedsheets and see how i like it.

You ain't catching spreadsheets on my PJ, but surfing, image editing, or sound editing - sure. The mundane stuff can reside on my CRTs or LCDs.

ted

I am using ceiling mount and am wondering if it is better to use lens shift or vertical shift in the menu.

Also I assume it is best to keep the projector level but this seems hard to do without using max lens shift.

Originally posted by andersonj55126
I am using ceiling mount and am wondering if it is better to use lens shift or vertical shift in the menu.

Also I assume it is best to keep the projector level but this seems hard to do without using max lens shift.

POSITION only moves the image within the scan area - some players do not output a centered image as using DVE or AVIA will show you. If you wish to lower the image you will have to use lens shift.

Yes it is best to keep it level as it is best to avoid KEYSTONE where possible. What are you concerned with as far as using lens shift to its max? Geometry errors?

ted

one of the reasons i went with the panny was the desire to shelf mount.i haven't stopped to consider what issues arise with the 700 when mounting the way you have chosen. does ceiling mounting the panasonic cause issues some of the other projectors have addressed?

Originally posted by Nascar Dog
I finally got my AE700 on Friday (Manufacture Date - Jan 2005 with firmware 1.07) and have a DVD-S97 connected to it via HDMI. The picture looks amazing and I cannot see any macroblocking, vertical banding or screen door problems. No dead pixels either. I planned on having a 100" iamge but with the projector on a shelf at the back of my 19' room I am able to adjust from a 70" screen to at least a 120" screen size. Even with the larger screen sizes the picture looks great. After reading some of the posts on this forum I wasn't sure what to expect but I am very happy with my projector.

I agree with this wholeheartedly. I bought this and also use HDMI to connect to the AE700.
I really like watching movies in HD and thought no way DVD can match but after watching Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle and Collateral Damage, I'm not so sure.

It's that close. And the brightness for DVD is excellent too.

I am with you on that my brother in law installed a 700 and I have a HS20 and his picture with the same dvd player is really better.

Tim

Originally posted by Gator99
Quick question for you guys? I have a 106" da-lite HCMW installed (and level) and I have my 700 installed on a shelf (level as well) 19' from screen and my image is not quite right, picture is great but the image on the screen is not squared (see attachment) and I don't think this is a keystone issue or maybe it is but when I play with the settings it doesn't help. I am using about 60% vertical axis lens shift

Anyone have any suggestions.

This may sound silly but check the following:

- That your screen is square
- That your screen is level both horizontally *and* vertically
- That your projector is level side-to-side (roll) and front-to-back(pitch).
- That an imaginary line from the centerline of your PJ, front-to-back, is perpendicular to your screen (yaw). This is the hardest thing to check ... anyone got any tips?

http://www.nasm.si.edu/exhibitions/gal109/NEWHTF/HTF541B.HTM

I had the same problem as yours and it turned out to be two things:

1) My home built screen frame wasn't perfectly square. :-(
2) The lower left corner of my screen wasn't flush to the wall (there was some twist to the frame and it had pulled away from the wall).

#2 was the primary issue for me.

j.

Originally posted by tvted
Looks to me like the PJ might not be squared to the screen though it may be level.
Have you tried rotating the 700 ever so slightly in the direction of the shorter side (meaning that if the left is shorter rotate the PJ counterclockwise) such that the lens on the shorter side moves further away from the screen thereby increasing the image size on that side?

ted

EDITED more than once because I *know* it reads damn confusing

tvted - sometimes it is helpful to borrow terms from other professions. :-)

The three axis about which an object can be rotated are roll, pitch, and yaw. I'm pretty sure you're trying to describe yaw. :-)

j.

On behalf of VA, we just wanted to confirm to everyone on the Forum that we are shipping the AE700U with the latest firmware.

Matt, seeing as I got my ae700 from you guys, would you recommend having you update it or my local service center? I think I'll have to ship it either way.

Is there an authorized dealer out there NOT shipping with the 1.07 firmware?


On a side note, anyone out there using the AE700 with a screen trigger to drop their electric screen?

Just looking for some info on the connector and wiring used.

Thanks

Yes, I am using a screen trigger to lower my Vutec screen. If you are buying Vutec, they do sell a more expensive trigger that will work with the 700. The Panny doesn't provide enough amp to trigger the screen. I had to use a relay device with a power supply to trigger the screen.

Do a search, it has been discussed in the screen forums.

Yes, I have read the discussions on the trigger ... but they don't ship the actual connector that plugs into the projector ... do they?

Your best bet is to get ahold of Panasonic at 888.411.1996 to see if they will handle any updates/upgrades for you.

Here is a Newbie question....

I have heard talk of Brand X dvd player has a better scaler than Brand Y PJ, so use the DVD scaler (or scenario vice-versa...)

I have the Panny AE700 and the Panny DVD-S97, via HDMI.

How would I disable the scaler in either unit, to let the other do the work?

I have been through the menus and nothing jumps out at me a tweak for the "on-board scaler".

Mostly I'm just curious wanting to do an A/B comparison, but I really don't have any complaints, as the PQ is great however it is working now.

Thanks,
Scott

Sandwedg

In the setup menu on the DVD player, you probably have a setting for "progressive" or "interlaced". If you set it to "progressive", it'll send out a deinterlaced picture. The AE700 won't try to run it through the deinteralcer. If you change the setting in the DVD player to "interlaced", then the projector will try to deinterlace it.

What you may find is that one deinterlacer is better than the other depending on whether you're playing a film based or video based DVD.

Deinterlacer and scaler is not the same thing. A projector such as the AE700 contains both. Som players contain none of these, one of these or both.

To determine if the player's scaler or deinterlacer is better or worse than the projectors, simply turn one or the other on and off in the player, then the projector will do what's required.

To turn off the player's scaler, simply tell it to put out 480p or 576p, depending on whether the disc is NTSC or PAL. Then the projector will do the scaling.

To turn off the player's deinterlacer, simply tell it to send out an interlaced signal. Usually by selecting interlaced or deselecting progressive. Then the projector will do the deinterlacing.

Try all four combinations.

/David

Aha... so if I set the DVD player to 720p or 1080i then the DVD player is doing the work, if I set it to 480i, the PJ is doing the work. (?)

Thanks,
Scott

Assuming a 1280x720 resolution projector:

If you set the player to 720p, you are telling it to scale and deinterlace, and the projector will not have to do any of these.

If you set the player to 720i (probably not an option in real life), you are telling it to scale but not to deinterlace. The projector will then have to deinterlace itself, but not to scale.

If you set the player to 1080i, you are telling it to scale but not to deinterlace. The projector will then have to deinterlace itself, and also to _downscale_ from 1080 to 720, which we assumed was the projectors native resolution. Downscaling is easier than upscaling, so it can sometimes make sense to do this.

/David

I started setting my new PT-AE700E, after adjusting the keystoning of the screen I still get a curved edge at the bottom of the display. I cannot find an adjustment to get rid of the curved bottom edge. Anybody can help me with this problem. This is a major visual distraction.

Has anyone gotten the new firmware upgrade? Remind me again what it all was suppose to fix? - HDMI cropping or something like that? Still no fixes for the VB though, just power off/unplug when done using to help prevent it? I seem to have real bad VB just at certain points (and not the obvious dessert/snowstorm)

Originally posted by ithana
I started setting my new PT-AE700E, after adjusting the keystoning of the screen I still get a curved edge at the bottom of the display. I cannot find an adjustment to get rid of the curved bottom edge. Anybody can help me with this problem. This is a major visual distraction.

Is it necessary to use Keystone?
Keystone introduces unwelcome artifacts into the image and is best avoided.
Are you unable to square and plumb the 700 to your screen and then utilize the lens shift to bring it into place?

ted

Originally posted by rhwimmers
Has anyone gotten the new firmware upgrade? Remind me again what it all was suppose to fix? - HDMI cropping or something like that? Still no fixes for the VB though, just power off/unplug when done using to help prevent it? I seem to have real bad VB just at certain points (and not the obvious dessert/snowstorm)

HDMI cropping (for the most part - still slight overscan and PAL colour management.

Describe your VB in the "not obvious" scenes
Do you disconnect from the power source between uses?
Have you tried the flicker tweaks?
Does it disappear after a warm-up period?

These issues have been discussed extensively in the "Tweaks thread" - search for "VB" or "vertical banding"

ted

Originally posted by ithana
I started setting my new PT-AE700E, after adjusting the keystoning of the screen I still get a curved edge at the bottom of the display. I cannot find an adjustment to get rid of the curved bottom edge. Anybody can help me with this problem. This is a major visual distraction.

Ithana,

I recently had the same problem. The issue for me was that the projector was pointing slightly sideways and I was using the lens shift to get the picture centered causing a sideways keystone problem (i.e. the left side was 3-4" bigger than the right). The effect is similar to pointing the projector on the side wall but not so extreme.

Try turning the projector toward the short side (making the image go off center) then use the lens shift to get it back to center.

Alternatively start with the lens shift in the center position and try to move the projector to center the image.

Thanks for you responses.
The problem is my PE700 projector is near the ceiling sitting on a shelf.
It does not make any difference if I have the desk setting or a ceiling setting. I have tried both by turning the projector upside down. I have to use the lens shift to bring the image bottom down to get close to the bottom of the screen. After the max shift downwards, I get the curved bottom edge. I still have to tilt the projector slightly which causes keystoning as well.
Iam thinking of keeping the lense shift to the centre and simply tilt the projector and use only keystoning. What do you think??

Originally posted by ithana
Thanks for you responses.
The problem is my PE700 projector is near the ceiling sitting on a shelf.
It does not make any difference if I have the desk setting or a ceiling setting. I have tried both by turning the projector upside down. I have to use the lens shift to bring the image bottom down to get close to the bottom of the screen. After the max shift downwards, I get the curved bottom edge. I still have to tilt the projector slightly which causes keystoning as well.
Iam thinking of keeping the lense shift to the centre and simply tilt the projector and use only keystoning. What do you think??

As I said earlier, I would avoid keystoning as much as possible.

At its extremes the lens shift will also introduce some distortion. Can you not lower the 700 enough to bring the shift within range? It shouldn't require to much change. If not, personally I would simply mask the curved portion - zoom a little - rather than use keystone. But if it works for you, its your setup.

ted

ithana

Tilting the projector, as you described, will cause uncorrectable focus problems.

The sharpest image from my AE700 is with the projector even with the center of the screen (which is retro reflective), with the projector level/perpendicular to the screen and with the lens shift centered. From a practical standpoint, you have to raise the projector some to just keep people's heads from projecting shadows, but I'd fine tune the height of the projector to find the lowest it can be positioned without heads showing up and keep projector perpendicular and use lens shift as little as possible.

Hello

I just got the AE700. It's great, I used to have the SP4805, but didn't like rainbows. I am looking to buy a screen and a DVD player. I am posting here, because someone was talking about scalers recently. Which DVD player does everyone recommend for the AE700 (that has a good scaler or lets the 700 scale) under 200. I am looking at the Oppo, does it have a good scaler, or should I just buy that Samsung thats $100 bucks? Do DVI-D to HDMI converters lose any quality? I am also thinking of getting a 100 inch screen from tiger Direct, it's gain is 1.0, is that a good gain for light contralled basement (I am looking at this one because it costs under a 100" Elite M100UWH) 106" would me nicer but can't find one at a low price. I tried to find the answers but there is too many pages.

AE700 :-)

SamRS – The Oppo OPDV971H appears to be a very good player, but it will only do progressive output if you use the HDMI to HDMI connection (it only does 480i over the component connections – not progressive = 480p). It has a Faroudja DCDi scaler, which is one of the better ones. You could also get the Panasonic S97 player, it’s over $200, but it will do a good 480p over component as well as upconverting through the HDMI output – at least that’s what I was told by another forum member that has one.

The AE700 does an excellent job with component inputs (I’ve seen AVWHs AE700 with component connections). The AE700 will also give you a good picture with a low cost progressive scan player ($100 or less) using the component inputs (like the cheaper Toshiba, Sony, etc. that can be purchased from places like Costco, BB or CC).

It really depends on what you want to do and how much you’re willing to pay for it. See the DVD Player (Standard) Forum for more choices and arguments :D.

Thanks CT_Wiebe

I am thinking of getting the Oppo and letting it upscale to 720p. I also need to get the adapter from DVI D to HDMI. Is there any noticible quality lose on these adapters? Is an Elite 1.0 Gain screen a good pick for the AE700 light controlled room for around 100 dollar price range?

I am using a Philips DVD player and it does look nice over componenet. Looks good in both 480i and 480p. I also haven't noticed any problems with the AE700 that a lot of people were talking about, even looks good with the screen as big as my wall.

Just stay away from the very cheap adapters. There are a lot of good ones out there, but expect to pay at least $20 for one. Most vendors that sell HDMI cables also sell the DVI to HDMI adapters.

I would recommend looking in the Screen forum (Tyrg has posted some very good summaries). The elite screen will work, but for that price, I doubt it's very good (depends on if it's a fixed screen or not). You might try contacting Jason Turk or Daniel Hutnicki at AVS for advice - they can also give you a very good deal on screens.

Thanks again CT_Weibe.

I read Tyrg's posts and they helped me answere my question. I am thinking of going with the 100 inch Elite screen. It's 1.0 Gain which should work good with the AE700. The screen isn't fixed, it's a manual pull down. I read some forums about reducing waves, so I'll try their solutions. I found several cables that are DVI-D to HDMI. They are around 14 bucks. CT_Weibe, what do you think about the 81EF filter? I used an ND2 filter with the 4805 and I liked it. My room is light controlled. Time to go watch movies on the AE700 :D

The ND2 filter is used, primarily to reduce the brightness - not needed with the AE700. The 81EF is a color correcting filter which is used to get closer to D65 color temperature across all brightness levels. I has a side benefit of resulting in increased contrast ratio. This subject is fully discussed in the AE700 Tweeks thread. Here is a link to a summary of the settings with the filter (a 77mm filter fits the AE700):
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=5416909#post5416909

I've seen AVWH's PJ and he is throwing a very nice picture with his setup. Work backwards from that post for the earlier details. Brad Bissell posted the original settings that AVWH started from.

Thanks_CT Wiebe I have a lot of settings to play around with now :-)

Does the digital connection to the projector increase the speed the pixels move at? I saw in the manual different number for different resolutions, I don't know if it's related to the speed the pixels move or something else.

Yea the ND2 filter looks too dark on the AE700. I am not using the ND2 filter. It's only a little dark when I pick natural with -1 temp. It's probably because I am projecting onto a wall. I read the forums with the filter, and I am going to try it out eventually. I did like the way the pictures looked with the 81EF filter on the forum. My set up is 100" pic, no screen yet, sitting is 14 feet away and projector is 16 -17 feet away, around 4 feet from ground. I think the AE 700 has a good throw distance so it shouldn't be the reason the pic is kinda dark with natural with -1 temp, I think its just because I am projecting onto a wall and not a screen. The picture I like with the wall is normal mode, -1 color temp, +2 red and +2 blue. I tried the recommanded natural setting with color temp -1 and everything default and the pic was a little dark. I really liked the colors on the 4805 with projectorcentrals recommanded settings on their review and the ND2 filter. I think the AE700 has more realistic colors but I can't find the best setting yet. I should probably get one of those DVD's like AVIA, or THX glasses or get a filter and try out posted settings and tweak them for my room. I really haven't had time to play with the projector much :-(, but I will soon :-)

Since each PJ - screen combination is different, you can't get a really good picture unless you calibrate it. Get the AVIA DVD, ASAP. DVE (Digital Video Essentials) will also work, but the AVIA ("Guide to Home Theater") DVD is much easier to use for basic calibration. Also, the AVIA disk guides you through the basic calibration steps whereas DVE doesn't.

If you do get the 91EF filter, a calibration DVD is essential.

EDIT: Oops, that should be 81EF.

Originally posted by SamRS

Yea the ND2 filter looks too dark on the AE700. I am not using the ND2 filter. It's only a little dark when I pick natural with -1 temp. It's probably because I am projecting onto a wall.

No. it's not because you are projecting onto a wall it is because you are asking the projector do something it is not designed to do.

The PTAE-700 is a low powered amplifier - and what you're asking it to do is act like a high output high current amplifier.

But it simply isn't. Your experience of it 'being too dark' is entirely consistent with its intended performance envelope.

There is a reason why Panasonic did not include a filter with this projector and it is obvious now the facts and experience in the field is coming in from owners.

This projector can not cope with the high light levels needed to run a filter - it is not designed to, and given the reports of premature lamp dimming at or below the 500 hour mark, it's clear that this projector will not have adequate light levels in the life of its lamp to cope with the addition of a filter.

If you do use a filter you will have to run it on high mode likely resulting in early lamp failure and premature polariser burn out.

Take any talk about adding a filter to this projector with a high degree of caution.

Instead try tweaking the projector's settings and live with it. It'll last longer and be somewhat more reliable as its is operating comfortably within its intended performance envelope.

Hey BlownPixel.

I am not using the ND2 filter on the AE700, I just have one from when I had the 4805. I was thinking of getting the 81EF KR6 filter. I don't think I would change the brightness at all with it. What is premature polariser burn out? Is it something that can happen with the 81EF filter with brightness settings on defualt and low? I just ordered a screen with 1.0 Gain and the Oppo DVD player. I am going to get the AVIA when I recieve everything and fallow it's instructions, then I might get the filter and go through the AVIA again. The picture looks pretty good, brightness is good but not in natural mode. I think the Oppo DVD player will help with the picture and the screen will help too, should help with brightness. My brightness settings are all on defualt

Use any filter you prefer - many are reporting a profound lift in CR performance with them.

But the fact is Panasonic left filters off this projector. Why?

Reports in numerous different Forums are suggesting a key weakness in the PTAE-700 design is the lamp - it's dimming early and significantly so by 500 hours.

Put a filter on a projector with low light level - pump it to high output and see what happens in the long term.

This projector like all projectors, has an intended performance envelope and clearly driving it hard with a filter is **not** the intention of the Panasonic design team.

It's simply not designed for the light level necessary to achieve the output required in the long term.

Are you saying I will need to increase my brightness with the 81EF filter? Why would I if it only changes the colors? It probably will decrease brightness a little bit but I am ok with that. What is premature polariser burn out? If I use this filter with default brightness settings there shouldn't be any adverse affects right? Thanks for the info.

Sam - it may be try it and see.

But the experience from others is that the filter works best with the projector in high-mode.

Given the reports of premature lap dimming - I think you're running the projector in a way that will hasten what has been reported anecdotally by other users.

But you are now informed about the risk and your decision is yours to make in light of this discussion.

My suggestion is to 'err on the side of caution' here - try to get a satisfactory image from the stock unit.

I have the filter. The brightness is fine, and the contrast is awesome (in video mode with BB's settings). Low vs high lamp mode does not make a difference, both great.

BPixie does not own the projector. He is a filter, filtering out positive experiences of the Panny, and focusing on negatives. He then projects this onto others who are happy, this way he does not have to address his own issues.

PF

PF I remind you of what TVTed had to say:

"I'm currently at the questioning stage soon to escalate with pleading and whining."

From where I come, pleading and whining post-projector-purchase ain't happiness.

And I don't need to project anything on to anyone there is enough angst surrounding this projector to have more than 200,000 page views of a thread dedicated to permanently fixing well documented problems - and not one of them has been.

Others have agreed with my assessment of the fundamental problem with the filter/light output issue - and it makes perfect sense in light of the recent advice given to reduce screen size after a few hundred hours because of the rapid light fall-off.

As I say try it and see - but while you do - why not call Panasonic and find out what they have to say about it all.

That way the speculation ends and the knowledge begins.

Originally posted by blownpixel
PF I remind you of what TVTed had to say:

"I'm currently at the questioning stage soon to escalate with pleading and whining."

From where I come, pleading and whining post-projector-purchase ain't happiness.

And I don't need to project anything on to anyone there is enough angst surrounding this projector to have more than 200,000 page views of a thread dedicated to permanently fixing well documented problems - and not one of them has been.

Others have agreed with my assessment of the fundamental problem with the filter/light output issue - and it makes perfect sense in light of the recent advice given to reduce screen size after a few hundred hours because of the rapid light fall-off.

As I say try it and see - but while you do - why not call Panasonic and find out what they have to say about it all.

That way the speculation ends and the knowledge begins.

I've asked you before not to include me in your discussion.
I've called you a Sophist and you are again using the same poor, misguided logic by quoting me out of context. DO NOT use me to rationalize your thoughts.

You are repetitive. I actually don't think your name is all that allegorical - you've blown more than just a pixel. In fact you are a boring literalist. Angst? Methinks a little strong.

That was a joke dood and you quoted it as though I meant it. Gothcha!
IRONY - get it?

Though I've a diminished bulb - it was something I EXPECTED.
For the record, through all my AGONY I continue to use a filter and see no reason to remove it.

GET IT?

Please leave me out of your pontifications - "the speculation ends and the knowledge begins".

Indeed?

Please take your own advice - read what I said - I do not appreciate being associated with your trite musings.

ted

I don't use you to rationalise my thoughts. I use your evidence to build a case - which is contributing to a growing body of knowledge from you and other users about the lamp life and other Panasonic issues.

That is one of the main features of users posting their experience in public Forums - readers can identify trends and observations that may become part of the solution.

If you don't want your experience to be used in this way - don't post.

It seems like your pleading and whining has taken on a new thrust.

Your time would be better utilised by phoning Panasonic and sharing the details of that conversation with the Forum.

Hello

My experience with the AE700 is great. I just need to work on my room and wait for the Oppo and the screen to arrive. Then I'll get the Avia, and then try out the filter. I had a good experience (short) with one before, but I will keep my brightness settings on low. If it's only the bulb that has a diminished life it doesn't seem like a big deal, its replaceable, but I'll keep the brightness on low to help the bulb last longer. Now if the LCD panels were affected by a filter it would be a big deal, but I don't see how that could be possible with similar settings to defualt. I don't need lots of brightness in a light controlled room. I didn't experience anything negative with the AE700, I am just trying to make it the best I can in my budget. Thanks

Originally posted by CT_Wiebe
SamRS – The Oppo OPDV971H appears to be a very good player, but it will only do progressive output if you use the HDMI to HDMI connection


What about with a dvi -> hdmi cable ?

Originally posted by blownpixel
I don't use you to rationalise my thoughts. I use your evidence to build a case - which is contributing to a growing body of knowledge from you and other users about the lamp life and other Panasonic issues.

That is one of the main features of users posting their experience in public Forums - readers can identify trends and observations that may become part of the solution.

If you don't want your experience to be used in this way - don't post.

It seems like your pleading and whining has taken on a new thrust.

Your time would be better utilized by phoning Panasonic and sharing the details of that conversation with the Forum.


No, again you are mistaken - this proves you have an agenda. Did the fact that few paid attention to your thread bother your ego in some way? No need to answer I can infer the answer.

There never has been "pleading and whining" on my part, which if you understood IRONY you would understand. So it is flimsy evidence that *I* provide and your case has holes - this time its your situation that is ironic.

Anyone who posts out of context to manipulate their own purposes should be ignored. These last two posts are for others who might confuse my supposed "pleading" with anything bordering on truth.

The FACT that I continue to use a filter in spite of all your claims about its uselessness because of low lumens should be enough to indicate to you that I still find the image acceptable. But of course you blithely overlooked that because it suits your manipulative purposes.

As to Panasonic not including a filter. Pray tell, other than the Epson Cinema 500, (which adds a fair premium I suggest) how many models of Digital PJ's include a CC filter? You can ignore that too as the only real statement you've to make is your constant refrain.

So quote me at will, but if its out of context to suit your agenda, I will call you on it. This however, would not be to correct you, I'm sure you would continue to overlook things said that are not to your agenda, but to inform anyone who might take you seriously.

As to communicating with Panasonic - been there done that, as I've stated more than once - long before you slithered into these parts.. They've been helpful and responsive every time. Of course *that* fact doesn't suit your purposes so you will ignore it

Initially I had hope for you because you seem intelligent enough. Too bad you are blinkered.

ted

Then share your findings with Panasonic here Ted.

Your 'correspondence' with them should have gained you some useful answers.

What were they?

Hey rezokl1

I bought a DVI-D to HDMI male to male cable when I ordered my screen, I hope the DVI-D to HDMI doesn't have any noticable quality lose, I don't think it will. I am still waiting on everything, It should come in a week or so. Hey Tvted, whats blinkered mean? Also doesn't the Sony come with a filter? Avia is expensive, where is a good place to find it for a good price?

Originally posted by blownpixel
Then share your findings with Panasonic here Ted.

Your 'correspondence' with them should have gained you some useful answers.

What were they?

Well to answer your question - since you've finally asked one.
The *only* issue that I've not been able to solve to my own satisfaction is the loss of lumens - which I'm betting is quite simply a bad bulb. So I'll let you know after it has been returned from service.

I've no problems with flickering, VB, polarizer aging, LCD shading, or greyscale. None of which is out of the ordinary for LCD or digital PJ's.In fact I'm quite pleased with its performance so far. I'm also convinced that my experience (other than the bulb) with the 700 is more common than you would prefer to presume.

Sorry, I am not a reference for your issues with Panasonic - whatever they might be.

ted

Yes - we already have all this.

And why are you 'betting' anything? Get the facts and share them - no need to bet either way.

Panasonic either say it is a one-off dud, (which curiously is being repeated elsewhere as 'one -off' duds), or it's symptomatic of a larger malaise.

You have the light measurement facts - interested owners are interested to learn the truth.

And I'm interested; What did Panasonic say and who did you get a letter in reply from and specifically what did you ask them?

It would be helpful if you simply volunteered official advice from Panasonic Canada so we can ascertain consistency between the various Panasonic agents.

Hello Guys! has anyone been able to get rid of dust blobs on their panny... I've had no problems except 2 dust blobs that have formed and are only visible during black screen shots.... any help out there? also what's with these firmware updates I hear about...what do they fix...also do you guys think I'm better off sending it to a dealer for clean up or can I clean the blobs myself???

Hey ForzaMilan

I am wondering the same thing with the firmware upgrade. Some of the things that the firmware does is add some new options and might help out with VB, and HDMI cropping. What else does the firmware upgrade do? I don't know about the dust bulbs, but I think the dust is outside of the LCD panals somewhere near the light of the Dynamic Iris(I have no idea where the dynamic Iris is). If you have the older firmware and the same place can update it and clean your projector you might as well do both, but wait around and see what everyone else says, I never done this before.

I got the Oppo DVD player and the Screen. They are really nice, except now I am noticing VB with the (DVI to HDMI) HDMI input. I don't notice VB at all with component cables, but the picture looks better with HDMI. Could it be that the cable is causing the VB or I need a firmware update? I did do the flicker tweak, helps a little. What version Firmware do I have? Here is what my screen says under self check R 1.05 A 1.03 P 1.05. Which one is the firmware version.

SamRS,

Your firmware version is the first code R1.05. The firmware update was mostly for R1.03 PJ's which experienced white flashes with the HDMI input. R1.05 cured that, they also then released R1.07 and the only info anyone can find about R1.07 is that it supposedly does some color adjustment although no one is sure what exactly the adjustment is. There are no advantages with regards to VB or cropping.

PJ owners with the R1.05 fw tend to NOT send in their PJ's to update to R1.07 since no one has determined what significant improvements are made, and you'll be without your PJ for a little over a week, plus there's always the possibility of something happening to the PJ in shipping.


ForzaMilan,

If your PJ has the R1.03 fw, I would suggest sending it in for the update. You can also tell the tech's to clean the dust blobs while the PJ is in for the update.

Originally posted by djbluemax1
SamRS,

PJ owners with the R1.05 fw tend to NOT send in their PJ's to update to R1.07 since no one has determined what significant improvements are made, and you'll be without your PJ for a little over a week, plus there's always the possibility of something happening to the PJ in shipping.



I believe the colour management revision is solely for PAL machines.

ted

OK, I have read over 100 pages of this thread and still one big question.

Would you recomend this projector to me?

I wouldn't. I would recommend the Sanyo PLV-Z3 instead. I've had both, and the Z3 is the superior machine.

/David

i would say that the panasonic and the z3 are close. ask yourself if the flexability of the panasonics zoom lens matters to you . i have 2 of these machines and for me it has come in quite handy

Thanks djbluemax1

I won't send my projector for the update. I am going to keep trying to reduce VB. I notice that the sharpness on the DVD player changes how much VB I get. I set it on low and the picture is sharp and VB is low. I going to try and reduce it more. I think that having a better cable might help. I am going to order another DVI to HDMI cable and see if the ones with gas dialectic might help. I also found out that if I increase contrast on the DVD player there is less VB.

Is it a bad idea to increase contrast on the DVD player? Pic looks better with less VB to me. Does anyone have some advice on how to reduce it a little more over HDMI? I don't see VB at all over component but pic looks better over HDMI. When people say they completely power down their 700 they press the power button wait for projector to cool off and then turn it off or do they just turn the switch in the back to turn their projector off?

Originally posted by biglyle
OK, I have read over 100 pages of this thread and still one big question.

Would you recomend this projector to me?

well i sure would. had mine about two months now and i'm still blown away by it every time i turn it on. i pretty much only watch HD now since it just looks so much better than everything else. i'm a first time projector buyer so maybe i'm more tolerant than others...but i consider myself pretty discriminating when it comes to picture quality and i have no major complaints. it's not perfect...but i'm pretty sure that no projector under $2000 is. good luck whatever you decide.

I've only got 6 hours on my unit but now, once it warms up (about 10min), the screen has terrible vertical bars on it. I have green bars on the left and purple ones on the right about every 50 pixels or so I guess.

I'm pretty sure the LCD is bad somehow. Guess I need to call the vendor.

Anyone else have similar problems?

I am very happy with the picture otherwise... Way better than the Epson VT570 I originally purchased and returned because the zoom distance was about 1 foot. With the 700 I can set it about 5 feet forward or back and properly fit my 76" carada screen.

It's called vertical banding. Exactly the reason why I don't recommend this projector, but the Sanyo Z3 instead.

/David

No, this isn't just VB, this is a DEFECT in the unit. I did notice the VB but many PJs have that.

Originally posted by tvted
I believe the colour management revision is solely for PAL machines.

ted
Didn't realize the colour management revision was only for PAL. When I called up Heartland Services (the center that handles the fw update in the US) and asked what R1.07 was supposed to improve over R1.05, even they didn't know what it did. They said all they knew was that they had first gotten R1.05 and a meo stating that it cured the HDMI white flash problem, then soon after received R1.07 and the memo said something about R1.07 improving the colour management and that was as much info as THEY got from Panasonic.

Originally posted by pinkfloydhomer
It's called vertical banding. Exactly the reason why I don't recommend this projector, but the Sanyo Z3 instead.

/David

I've seen a few Z3's and they had some vertical banding too. Some more than others. The only VB-free D4 based PJ I've seen was one Epson Cinema 500.

Sure, Z3 has some VB too. But the average VB on Z3 is much smaller than on AE700. And the probability of getting a pj with no or very, very little VB is much higher with Z3. I have seen several of each, and I wouldn't own any of the AE700 precisely because of the amount of VB (even after tweaking, never leaving in standby and all other tricks available). The Z3s I have seen have all have only a tiny, tiny amount of banding or no banding at all.

/David

I have Zero VB, couldn’t find any with a magnifying glass, no SD either. This is why I would never recommend the Z3, too much SD.

BTW anyone with some hours on their AE700 notice their lamp getting brighter, maybe it's an optical illusion but I could swear that my lamp is getting brighter after 500 Hrs.

Originally posted by djbluemax1
Didn't realize the colour management revision was only for PAL.

It was what Pan Canada relayed when I asked their service about the upgrade to 1.07. I also believe I've seen it posted on AVForums (British) but can't say where.

btw did you ever measure the lumens from your stock bulb - keeping my own personal little data base. ;)

ted

January build, 107 firmware.

NO VB. At all. Nada.

No SD past half a meter.

Highly recommended.

To the naysayers(you know who you are) who don't actually OWN an AE700 - go away.

Originally posted by Kingdaddy
I have Zero VB, couldn’t find any with a magnifying glass, no SD either. This is why I would never recommend the Z3, too much SD.


If you really have zero VB (which I doubt), you are the first I have ever heard about.

Also, there might be a few lucky ones out there, but for a new buyer, it is a matter of probability. The probability of getting an AE700 with no banding or just so little banding that it's not constantly annoying, is rather small. But you could always get lucky of course.

About the Z3 having SD, I'd say: sure, if you go close enough as any other projector. At 1.4-1.5 x screen width, it becomes a non-issue and most people sit farther away than that. I'm at 1.7 here. Always have been, also with earlier projectors.

This brings up another point: The SmoothScreen technology of the AE700 reduces SD somewhat, but it also brings an odd optical softness to the picture that I don't like. And besides, anybody can make an ever so slight defocus without loss of resolution or perceivable focus, that will make SD disappear altogether (if it was an issue at all, which it is not).

But let me be honest: an AE700 without banding would be a truly great buy. It is a great projector and it has just a touch more contrast (although better black levels are possible with Z3) and more brightness. The banding I have seen on all AE700s and have heard reported from everyone else is just too annoying for me to enjoy the picture.

/David

Well, I am done reading. I have read over 300 pages of threads this weekend, and I see SD and VB staring at my fridge already.
I have decided to go with the PLV-Z3 as it seems to fit my needs better.
Many thanks to all on this thread who answered my questions. Till next time the upgrade bug hits.

Pinkfloydhomer:

Nonsense, many hear on this very thread have reported no VB with the AE700. Also realize that most don’t report anything if they done have any problems, mostly only bad things are reported, not good. The AE700 is very sharp; text on my Windows Desktop is perfectly focused and sharp.

Originally posted by pinkfloydhomer
If you really have zero VB (which I doubt), you are the first I have ever heard about.

Also, there might be a few lucky ones out there, but for a new buyer, it is a matter of probability. The probability of getting an AE700 with no banding or just so little banding that it's not constantly annoying, is rather small. But you could always get lucky of course.

But let me be honest: an AE700 without banding would be a truly great buy. It is a great projector and it has just a touch more contrast (although better black levels are possible with Z3) and more brightness. The banding I have seen on all AE700s and have heard reported from everyone else is just too annoying for me to enjoy the picture.

/David

I'm not sure you've followed the AE700 tweak thread, then.

There are many who report little or no VB.
I've had some, but it's certainly NOT "constantly annoying" - rather, it's barely noticeable (i.e., I have to be looking for it to see it). The first one I saw demo'd before I got mine had no VB.

I'm getting a little annoyed at all the AE700 "experts" there seem to be posting on these boards who don't have an AE700. I don't usually presume to know a component well enough to offer advice if I don't own it or haven't used it extensively.

Originally posted by AVWH
I'm not sure you've followed the AE700 tweak thread, then.

There are many who report little or no VB.
I've had some, but it's certainly NOT "constantly annoying" - rather, it's barely noticeable (i.e., I have to be looking for it to see it). The first one I saw demo'd before I got mine had no VB.

I'm getting a little annoyed at all the AE700 "experts" there seem to be posting on these boards who don't have an AE700. I don't usually presume to know a component well enough to offer advice if I don't own it or haven't used it extensively.

I did follow the AE700 tweak thread. And also, how do you know about how extensive my knowledge is about the AE700? I have tested the AE700 extensively myself. I have also communicated with many owners of this machine. I have a friend who is a retailer of both the Z3 and the AE700. He reports the same things: Most of the AE700 he sells have some amount of banding. How much is enough to annoy is different to different people, but it is there, and visible. Many of the Z3s he sells have a touch of banding, but generally much less than the AE700s he sells. Some don't have any. And yet when he compares with Sony HS50, he finds that what he thought was no banding on Z3 was actually a tiny little amount of banding, while what he thought was a little banding on a few lucky AE700s was in fact a lot of banding. This is all relative, and some people don't even find banding annoying. I am just saying: I find any amount of VB extremely annoying and all the Z3s I have seen have had so little of it if any that I didn't notice it. The AE700s I have seen and tested extensively myself have had too much banding for me. Even after flicker tweaking and not leaving in standby etc.

Now, as I said, this is all about probabilites. I haven't seen the particular AE700s of the hundreds of people that posts in these threads. And they might have zero VB, I don't know. I find it improbable, though, given what I already know and have seen with my own eyes, and what have been reported from several users and in my case a retailer friend.

I haven't proclaimed myself to be an expert. I just know what I have seen first and foremost. And also what I have read and heard which confirms my own findings, secondly.

Take it for what it's worth.

/David

Hello members,

I have a new AE700 (v.1.0.7) with about 30 hours on the bulb. I have tried very hard to find any vertical banding and just don't see any. I use it in a HTPC configuration with the VGA connector. The only problem I have is a possible dust speck on the red LED because I can see a small "blob" when I project pure red otherwise I never notice it and I don't want to open the case to void my warranty. I was scared to get this projector after reading some of these posts but I'm glad I did. As a precaution I do power the PJ off w/the rocker switch in back.

Spackle. :)

Edit: Also, I have not done any of the tweaks yet. The projector settings are straight out of the box except I set the fan to high.

Originally posted by pinkfloydhomer
I have a friend who is a retailer of both the Z3 and the AE700. He reports the same things: Most of the AE700 he sells have some amount of banding. The AE700s I have seen and tested extensively myself have had too much banding for me. Even after flicker tweaking and not leaving in standby etc.


/David

Question for you, have you allowed the projector to warm up before adjusting the flicker adjust settings ? This projector needs to be switched on for at least 30 minutes before you adjust those settings and then the vertical banding is practically zero, you will always see the banding effect until the projector warms up ( therefore give it 30 minutes and then demo some material ) thats my experience and i own this projector.

Warm up and stabilize !!

It's ALWAYS good practice to warm up or "turn on and wait " ANY electronic display device for at least 30 min's before attempting ANY "fine" adjustment('s) or calibration.

Anyone "turing on and adjusting" will almost never get the correct setting, at best, the setting('s) will only be close.

Also many note that if you do have VB out of the box is usually goes away after some bulb burn in, mine went completely away, now I have ZERO VB. In addition to the flicker tweak, turning off power to the projector between usages helps the VB a lot. I no longer have to turn off the projector to help the VB as I have none since about 200 Hrs.

no vb here, 750 hours

To all:

Have I allowed the pj to warm up before? Yes, of course. I am not a rookie. I have assessed VB after turning it on, after 30 minuter, during the watching of movies, after running 12 hours etc. I always let electronics to be calibrated warm up for 30 minutes or more first.

And yes, it definitely helps after 30 minutes. A lot. But it's still there, the VB.

Lastly, I would like to add that while I cannot possibly know the amount of banding of the particular AE700s owned by people here saying "No VB on mine!", i have heard several owners saying about their projectors that they had no VB, yet when I saw it, I could clearly point out the VB to them. So in short:

1) Some people think that a pj has no VB, when in fact it does
2) Some people (especially owners) have a tendency to not see problems with their the pj they own, because they paid so much money for it. "No VB on mine!". "What is that, then?". "Oh that.. Well, maybe it has a little VB, but it's still a good buy and I don't see the VB when I am watching movies". And so on.

Again, I cannot say that this is the case here. Just that I have experienced this before.

As a last note, I have seen both brand new AE700s and AE700s with some hours on them (2-300 hours etc.). Banding was clearly visible even after all these hours.

Again, I don't know if it is on yours. I just know what I have seen, what I have heard from others and what I have heard from a person who sees more AE700s and Z3s every week than most of us do in a lifetime.

/David

Originally posted by pinkfloydhomer
To all:


2) Some people (especially owners) have a tendency to not see problems with their the pj they own, because they paid so much money for it. "No VB on mine!". "What is that, then?". "Oh that.. Well, maybe it has a little VB, but it's still a good buy and I don't see the VB when I am watching movies". And so on.

/David

Yeh ok and i suppose everyone here who can't see vertical banding falls into that category IN YOUR EYES, sorry to disappoint you but i'm very fussy when it comes to picture quality and as far as i'm aware most projectors on the market have at least a little vertical banding which can be seen during the most testing of scenes but that doesn't mean after a warm up period that the vertical banding will still be there, there are lots of variables to be taken into consideration and if you were truly knowledgable you would know this and perhaps wouldn't continually go on about this projector, you even made false statements regarding the smoothscreen applied by this projector and defocussing, there is no defocussing going on and it shows your lack of knowledge.

If you are unhappy about the projector then go buy your Sanyo model but from all accounts that i have read you will find things to complain about on that model too unlessss you actually just have a gripe with Panasonic, hmmm you sound more and more like blownpixel, you sure you aren't twins as you seem to want to talk only about this projectors problems and you know what, i never trust a person who points to others and then tries to back up their claims by saying they know "a friend" in the business who sells projectors, sure you do and hey i'm actually the easter bunny.

Anyways maybe i'm being too harsh and if so i apologise but i find it rather insulting that to back up your claims you try to put the opinions of others down and claim superior knowledge because you know a friend who sells projectors, big deal is all i can say.

i too am a total fussmonster when it comes to pq

i should clarify that i did see some VB early on, <100 hours or so, but it has long been gone and i haven't seen it since

i even look for it still

Imax Antartica in HD is a great test. :)

and $2K really isn't a LOT of money in the grand home theater scheme of things but as always YMMV

pinkfloydhomer
just go and get a z3 already. I still see some vb with my ae700 on occasion after almost 700 hrs. Big deal. If I am going to watch a movie with lots of vb unfriendly scenes, I flicker adjust it before hand, and it looks fine. Otherwise I just leave it be. Now that I don't adjust it every time I turn it on, well, maybe it's finally settling down.

I finally bought a AE700 some two months ago I think. Time flies, somehow :)

I'm at 139 hours, low lamp mode. So far, adjusting "flicker-tweak" hasn't made sense at all, I still have vertical banding. The flicker is reduced, but not the VB in actual video playback. I've had multiple failures of the shutter show up in self check (when the shutter/iris "shuts off", picture becomes dim). I've even had the fan speed up considerably at around 100 hours, for no reason I can understand other than dirty air filter, which I cleaned right after. VB is easily noticable if I forget to power off completely, and there's a high pitch tone when you start it up.

Even so, I'm at ease :) The projector has behaved very well, and after cleaning the air filter the fan has been constant like it used to for the first 100 hours. The high pitch tone disappears completely after a minute or so, and the shutter has been working like it should (with no errors in self check) for the last 39 hours. Using a power bar which I connect the AE700 to (that's the right word I assume?) I simply step on the off-switch before going to bed. The powerbar itself is connected to a APC SmartUPS1000, along with my computer. When I want to watch a movie I simply step on it again, power up the projector, and enjoy.

Well, I love my projector despite its issues :D

EDIT: Shutter/iris

Originally posted by kboye
I finally bought a AE700 some two months ago I think. Time flies, somehow :)

I've had multiple failures of the shutter show up in self check (when the shutter/iris "shuts off", picture becomes dim). I've even had the fan speed up considerably at around 100 hours, for no reason I can understand other than dirty air filter, which I cleaned right after. VB is easily noticable if I forget to power off completely, and there's a high pitch tone when you start it up.


Well, I love my projector despite its issues :D

EDIT: Shutter/iris

Small recommendation - use Email - bring up the shutter failing issue with Customer Care. See what you can learn. Mention the start -up sound as well.

Doesn't sound quite right to me.

ted

Hello

I don't see VB at all over component but I do see it over HDMI. I wonder if a VGA connection might be better? I like the PE700 a lot :-). Trying to make it the best I can before I start watching a lot of movies. Kinda works out for me since I am about to have free time to watch movies :-)

I love my Panny A700. I have about 200 hours on it. I rarely see VB and usually it is during very light scenes with very monotone colors and when the projector is cold.

I also use component and not HDMI. The picture is fantastic.

Originally posted by kboye

I'm at 139 hours, low lamp mode. So far, adjusting "flicker-tweak" hasn't made sense at all, I still have vertical banding. The flicker is reduced, but not the VB in actual video playback. I've had multiple failures of the shutter show up in self check (when the shutter/iris "shuts off", picture becomes dim). I've even had the fan speed up considerably at around 100 hours, for no reason I can understand other than dirty air filter, which I cleaned right after. VB is easily noticable if I forget to power off completely, and there's a high pitch tone when you start it up. (snip)


Would you accept the same level of 'irritation' from a new HT receiver, subwoofer or DVD player?

Or would you return it?

tvted :)
You won't believe this, but about 04:15 last night the iris failed after a steady 42 hours without issues, right in the middle of a Stargate episode (Wormhole XTreme for you fans reading this). Man, that's just my luck LOL

It's going back in a few days.

blownpixel - since I'm new to projectors, I've kept it, but will return it for service now. I paid twice the amount for my home theater amplifier/receiver (Pioneer VSA-E08) of what I paid for the projector. In addition comes all the speakers, and the subwoofer. None of it has given me any issues at all, none. But I get a sneeking feeling there's so much more that can go wrong with a projector, that eventually will, due to the insane temperature and light inside. I don't know, I just expect it to have issues just like a PC :)

Actually we are lucky to have the blown one. Look at all the guys posting about their X1 bulbs blowing up, the HS20 gripes, the Z2 issues, the 4805 problems and he doesn't lift a finger to help them out. He really likes helping the AE700 guys.

I have no experience with those projectors and have no comment to make; DLP makes me nauseus - so it's simply a no-go zone for me.

I like to comment on machines that I know, can assess because of previous experience with models in the same line-up that I have used and there is a wide body of well qualified user-evidence confirming trends in product quality.

I posted earlier that given the issues discused here that this Forum is increasingly reading like the CRT Forum which used to be predominantly about problem solving.

Increasingly I see the same trend emerging here. And that should worry anyone seeking a plug-and-play solution for big screen viewing.

Given the predominance of digital user-issues, the soft market in which projectors are being sold and my presence as an advocate for consumer support being interpretted as sh@t-stirring also worries me.

Bottom-line? Be informed about what you're buying, expect trouble - but hope to be pleasantly surprised.

Originally posted by kboye
tvted :)
You won't believe this, but about 04:15 last night the iris failed after a steady 42 hours without issues, right in the middle of a Stargate episode (Wormhole XTreme for you fans reading this). Man, that's just my luck LOL

It's going back in a few days.

blownpixel - since I'm new to projectors, I've kept it, but will return it for service now. I paid twice the amount for my home theater amplifier/receiver (Pioneer VSA-E08) of what I paid for the projector. In addition comes all the speakers, and the subwoofer. None of it has given me any issues at all, none. But I get a sneeking feeling there's so much more that can go wrong with a projector, that eventually will, due to the insane temperature and light inside. I don't know, I just expect it to have issues just like a PC :)

Sorry to hear that - must have been the wormhole.;)

I would also agree with your assessment that a PJ is considerably more complex in its combination of electronic, mechanical, and optical elements than an amp. I can and have built amps of varying types - not from kits either - I highly doubt I could put together anything resembling a projector.

good luck,
ted

It's not a matter of what is more complex - there are good example and bad examples of both.

My question is focusing on the market tolerance for projection faults.

Are we collectively 'easier' on projection than other products?

I can not imagine a 200,000 page view AVS thread seeking to fix inherent problems with a single model of HT receiver - that arrives at the end - without permanent fixes.

Our combined ignorance as consumers of the complexities of projector manufacture and R&D should not be a prerequisite for accommodating faults in the manufactuer and implermentation of said R&D.

i must be leading a charmed life .both my units have been trouble free. my guess is that millions of happy owners never bother to post

Originally posted by blownpixel

I can not imagine a 200,000 page view AVS thread seeking to fix inherent problems with a single model of HT receiver - that arrives at the end - without permanent fixes.

Our combined ignorance as consumers of the complexities of projector manufacture and R&D should not be a prerequisite for accommodating faults in the manufactuer and implermentation of said R&D.

If you really seek an answer to these questions, perhaps you might start an new thread rather than continuing to infer that this is solely an AE700 problem regardless of I like to comment on machines that I know, can assess because of previous experience with models in the same line-up that I have used and there is a wide body of well qualified user-evidence confirming trends in product quality

Surely these threads
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=444560
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=414103
are not simply accolades.

Anyway I would argue that "views" is of considerable less importance than "replies" in determining whether folks are interested in fixing "inherent problems" with *any* device. How can you tell from a view what that viewer's purpose may be - other than interest?

ted

ted - Are you seriously suggesting that the litany of issues reported by users with the Panasonic PTAE-700 is actually typical (not exceptional) for digital projection?

Originally posted by blownpixel
ted - Are you seriously suggesting that the litany of issues reported by users with the Panasonic PTAE-700 is actually typical (not exceptional) for digital projection?

Sorry,
This is a much traveled road over the last month or so, with others as well as me. You will have to reread those posts since you didn't believe us the first time.
Ain't going there - no entertainment value.
Ah but I was so much older then...

ted

You can't have it both ways Ted.

No other projector or product in the history of the AVS Forum has ever had the combined list of faults, flaws, gremlins and glitches as the Panasonic PTAE-700 discussed over near 100 pages of largely fruitless banter. If there is another - please name it.

To learn today that there are more Panasonic PTAE-700s out there going by other brand names is a truly terrifying prospect.

Or it could just be the fact that it is more popular :)

From a % POV, the relative ratio of problems to owners could all be the same as with other projectors, but the sheer number of owners might make the absolute numbers more apparent.

But that's my take.. and I have had my AE700 for over 6 months now.

I do see the odd VB because I always leave it on standby.. but it is never to the point when I felt nauseous.

As usual.. YMMV

Or it could be that the PTAE-700 was based on a flawed design that was never satisfactorily resolved and was added to without fixing the problems that were previously identified by Panasonic owners?

The only poster here who can say they knew it all along is Monkeyman whose comment on the very first page of this thread is errily prophetic;

"Anyone having deja vu from last year right now? All the happy speculation to be later met with so many problems." August 4 2004

Yup. Got it in one.