<< I think you have to define "correct" first. >>

That's easy. I'm looking for the setting that sets the Gamma most closely to the industry standard 2.2 Gamma. Since I don't have the tools to measure this I have to guess at this point.

Am I correct in assuming that the default "off" setting is closest to the standard? I can't find the post, but I remember that UMR said that setting gamma too high can lead to a host of problems.

I don't think anyone knows for sure at this point which of the settings is closest to the 2.2 standard.

-Brian

OTA problem - Help!!!

My GWIV used to pick up about 10 OTA HD channels in the past. After resetting the channel lineup, now I have only 2 OTA HD channels. What's wrong?? I live in between Baltimore and Washington DC. Thanks.

I thought I read one of thef towers in your area was going to be down for a week for service

I just re-scan using the Digital Channels and found no digital channels! That's odd. The Auto program found a few HD OTA channels except the CBS, WB, and NBC channels. These missing channels have not been on for more than a week. I checked other AVS forum discussing the HD regarding this area but no issue about broadcasting problem. I think it must be something wrong with my GWIV's built-in antenna.

The black level of a display is very important to me. I was able to view the Panasonic PT-LC14 LCD rear projection for a good while. The black level was so bad on this tv that I couldn't even watch it.
My questions is are you XS955 owners happy with the black level on your sets? Also are there any adjustments in the service menu that I can do to adjust the black level for peek performance?
I have looked at DLPs and the black level seems to be pretty good on these sets.

The only problem I've had with my set is the display popping up at random times. It can happen on any input and with any source. I just click the display button and it goes away. Otherwise I love my 55".

As for settings TomCat... I do agree that setting it up in power saving mode improves blacks. I have given up on the DRC adjustments. I just got an Avia disc in the mail. I'm gonna pop that in and see if I can get any more improvement than what I've gotten on my own. I'm pretty happy anyway.

As an aside... What has been your most impressive high def experience on your TV? I was actually very impressed with the live broadcast of American Idol on Fox in 720p on an OTA antenna. It has been the most "window-like" experience I've seen. Even better than some of Cuban's stuff on DirectTV on my buddy's 65" Mits CRT.

I might be happier with a pro cal, but I doubt by much. The pic on my WF is awesome!
Thanks to all the help from the forum, and lots of reading before experimenting, and doing all the basic adjustments deviating from factory settings, I was able to to improve the PQ substantially, including black levels.
Most helpful was umr's advice on setting 'gray' using a photocard and the discussions on gamma. I tried setting UGAM internally, and found on DVD input I was better with a 1 setting vs. factory 0. But the diff was subtle, but did require me to go back and reset pic and brightness using a cal disk. Which I did using DVE, and to my amazement flew through each test pattern including some advanced ones, with ease. Color balance was amazingly accurate when I ran through the THX optimizer, compared with my initial Avia run.

No doubt the Qualia is state of the art (today) or damn close to it, and the apple does not fall that far from the tree when you see a well set up GW. Naturally, factoring in the cost/performance ratio. But that only holds true if you are willing to dig into these sets, or have a pro do it and get out all the potential that is there to get. This has been a rewarding education.

I agree, American Idol is a great venue for show off when your buds come over :)

Originally posted by cjlawson
The black level of a display is very important to me. ...
My questions is are you XS955 owners happy with the black level on your sets? Also are there any adjustments in the service menu that I can do to adjust the black level for peek performance?

I'm happy with the Black Levels. I feel the Gamma Corrector is the ingredient that assists Brightness and Picture. I also have Power Reduction on, and don't use Black Corrector or Clear White, while others do.

My clincher on this subject was the Grammy awards, a designer of black clothings dream. I could see plenty of detail, right down to black stripes on black suits on a stage that was dimmed, and not well lit.

Using DD 5.1 for that broadcast and seeing the HD shots was as close to being in the theater as it gets.

I STRONGLY encourage you to grab the remote wherever you're shopping, and hit these User settings yourself. If possible, look for INHD or HDNet broadcasts at the store, and get there when some type of music concert is on (generally not well lit).

Good Luck.

Originally posted by Greg Wood
I just re-scan using the Digital Channels and found no digital channels! That's odd. The Auto program found a few HD OTA channels except the CBS, WB, and NBC channels. These missing channels have not been on for more than a week. I checked other AVS forum discussing the HD regarding this area but no issue about broadcasting problem. I think it must be something wrong with my GWIV's built-in antenna.

Greg, which set do you have. I just started having tuner problems with my 60XS955 and have found others who have different but simmilar problems.
We may need to start a specific tuner problem thread.

Update:
No time like the present!
I started one HERE (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=5504710#post5504710)

Originally posted by idreos
Several months ago I bought a Sony KDF-60XS955. The set has developed a problem that causes it to not be able to receive several channels at times, with the black screen displaying "no signal"

I am using a cable card with Cox Cable. I also have an over the air antenna which receives local HDTV broadcasts.

Originally suspecting the cable co. hardware, I have had several cable cards replaced, and that didn't solve the problem.

Sometimes a transmission will suddenly go black and "no signal" will appear on the black screen. At other times there will be no sound with a good picture.
The problem can usually be solved by turning the tv off and on again, but it can re-occur while watching broadcast. (most of the times at critical times of a plot)

Another thing I've noticed is that if the HD Network (eg NBC or ABC) cable transmission signal is not being received and I switch the remote to the over the air (antenna) equivalent station isn't either. The other tv's on the cable have no problems.

It looks like this is might be a Sony tuner problem, and I was wondering if it is a known problem that others have had.

Thanks for any help or comments!

Jim

Jim, See my post above.

Joe -

My set is KDF-42WE655. I am not surprised about the tuner problem that you have similar experience. It must be done something by the stations that may upgrade the HD system recently, thats probably why it affects the GW's tuner. Yes we would start the separate thread if we hear any more feedbacks from other people.

Welp, just made a purchace last night a local store for the 55WF655. I got a great deal on price and warrenty. The tv will be replacing a first generation 36" Wega that will be moved to the bedroom. It will be delivered Saturday and I cannot wait. I have one question though. Does some cable companies pass HD locals through regular coax cable without a digital set top box? If not I have Dish Network and would like to use an antenna to get my local HD because of the price if Dishes HD reciever prices.

I don't know what Dish offered you. I only paid 50 bucks for the HD upgrade to a 811. (I returned an older receiver). And 5 bucks a month for the 'rental/lease'.
For HD Dish programming I got a special for 5 bucks for the first year...reg. price is $10 a month. (HDNet, HDDiscovery, TNTHD, ESPNHD, etc.)
I am a continuing customer.

You need a cable card or Digital box to get digital on cable.

I did well with Silver Sensor indoor antenna getting HD for my few locals. They are <$40 at Sears. The best indoor ant. you can get.

With Dish you will have to pay for non HD Locals if you want them in your bedroom and not off another antenna.
Made the exact changes you did. Older Wega to the BR and the 55WF to the viewing room and happy I did!

Can't give you more info. Cable quality, etc. really varies with location it seems. Overall, I understand the HD is very good, but SD seems to be a bit better on satellite. YMMV.

Originally posted by Bghead8che
<< I think you have to define "correct" first. >>

That's easy. I'm looking for the setting that sets the Gamma most closely to the industry standard 2.2 Gamma...

Am I correct in assuming that the default "off" setting is closest to the standard? ...

I don't think anyone knows for sure at this point which of the settings is closest to the 2.2 standard.

-Brian

So, for you, "correct" means that what will look the best to you is what the industry tells you will look best to you, with zero regard for what you actually see or individually perceive. While that is the exact opposite pole to my approach, that is still an absolutely legitimate position to take, as is everything in between. If that's what will make you happy, then vaya con Dios, mi amigo.

Strangely enough, though, even my eye care specialists determine what works best for my vision primarily by asking ME a series of questions comparing "number one" to "number two", so highly-trained scientists within a strict medical doctrine rely on MY vision, MY perception, as their best tool in determining what MY vision correction prescription should be. Irony. You gotta love it.

I'm guessing, too, but I think it makes sense that "no" correction would be the closest to industry standard.

Originally posted by videoaddikt
I don't know what Dish offered you. I only paid 50 bucks for the HD upgrade to a 811. (I returned an older receiver). And 5 bucks a month for the 'rental/lease'.
For HD Dish programming I got a special for 5 bucks for the first year...reg. price is $10 a month. (HDNet, HDDiscovery, TNTHD, ESPNHD, etc.)
I am a continuing customer.

You need a cable card or Digital box to get digital on cable.

I did well with Silver Sensor indoor antenna getting HD for my few locals. They are <$40 at Sears. The best indoor ant. you can get.

With Dish you will have to pay for non HD Locals if you want them in your bedroom and not off another antenna.
Made the exact changes you did. Older Wega to the BR and the 55WF to the viewing room and happy I did!

Can't give you more info. Cable quality, etc. really varies with location it seems. Overall, I understand the HD is very good, but SD seems to be a bit better on satellite. YMMV.

Thanks, I have not called Dish yet but the prices on the website for the recievers are outrageous.:( I have been with them for 7 years with an old but good reciever (upgraded 3700 to the 4900). I would like to keep this reciever and maybe get an HD reciever by renting it. As for the cable it is included in my association so I was wondering if they pass some local HD channels since I hardly ever watch cable due to me having Dish. If they pass digtal locals through, I would not need an antenna.:)

I don't understand why that don't lease you the 811...you don't want to pay $400 which is the 'standalone' price.

Originally posted by bluer101
Thanks, I have not called Dish yet but the prices on the website for the recievers are outrageous.:( I have been with them for 7 years with an old but good reciever (upgraded 3700 to the 4900). I would like to keep this reciever and maybe get an HD reciever by renting it. As for the cable it is included in my association so I was wondering if they pass some local HD channels since I hardly ever watch cable due to me having Dish. If they pass digtal locals through, I would not need an antenna.:)

I am sure they will deal on that. All I have now is a 510 in the B/R and the 811 in our viewing area.
The rents for the rcvrs is about the same. They charge a little more of course, for the PVR.
I am holding back on a 921 etc. Wayyyy too much dinero for what is available in HD. When Dish captures local HDs then I might reconsider and hope by then the prices have dropped substantially or they have some serious competition on Dish compatible PVRs.
My total bill now for reg. locals (most of what we watch on the 2nd tv) T-180 programming pkg., 510, 811 receivers, HD Sat. channels, is $74/month. I could cut that down by almost 10 bucks, but I am ******** if the wife doesn't get Biography Channel. It's only available on the 180 pkg.
I don't think that's bad at all. I do the netflix thing, and the prem ch. don't interest me. I've never ordered PPV except when they give me a freebie.
I looked seriously at cable, I like the idea of getting local HDs without an antenna. Fortunately, it's a small inconvenience to use an indoor ant in my location.

Originally posted by videoaddikt

You need a cable card or Digital box to get digital on cable.



You can get HD and some digital cannels without a cable card or Digital box. I would try this first. I have standard cable, plugged straight into the cable input, and get 6 HD channels, all the music digital channels and about 5 regular digital channels. I am sure this varies depending on who you have and where you are located. I have Brighthouse cable, by the way.

I was hoping I could get an idea what the know issues are with the 655 line. I have read through about the last 40 pages of this thread to get an idea.

I am in the market for a new big screen. I was shopping for a DLP set, but last night I was looking at the Mits, Samsun and Panasonic DLP's, and the sales guy had me look at the Sony's. I gotta say, the sony made all the others look washed out. The colors were so much brighter and more accurate.

Any info would be greatly appreciated!

about to get the 60xs955 .. is there a list of things i can do to totally test out all the features that users have most problems with to figure out in the first 5 days of having the set if there is anything wrong with it. i need to act in 7 days per terms of the company i bought it from.

Thanks guys.:) As soon as I get the tv after a few tries with the cable and enjoying the new set, I will give Dish a call to talk about a deal. If not I thought of using a Squareshooter antenna since the antenna website says I ned a med directional antenna. Is this antenna any good? Would it be better than the silver sensor you guys talk about?

Originally posted by bluer101
Thanks guys.:) As soon as I get the tv after a few tries with the cable and enjoying the new set, I will give Dish a call to talk about a deal. If not I thought of using a Squareshooter antenna since the antenna website says I ned a med directional antenna. Is this antenna any good? Would it be better than the silver sensor you guys talk about?

The Silver Sensor (Zenith) is sold by Sears. It's a UHF indoor antenna. non-powered and about the best indoor around. Beats the Terks by a mile.
I also found my antenna recommendations similar. But thought I would try the SS first.
I have it at one position where it picks up 3 network stations without moving it. You will likely have to move it around a bit to get all your stations. With a good multi-direcional outdoor ant. you should be able to get most everything without rotating it.
Too me it's more hassle than it's worth. It certainly will not improve the quality of the signal. Once you receive a digital signal and it locks on, that's as good as it gets.
As long as you can return it for a refund, why not give it shot? You might be pleasantly surprised. If any of your HD signals are VHF, you would also need rabbit ears, etc.
I read one account of someone mounting their Silver Sensor outside, under the eaves. And it worked great. It's not designed for that, but interesting none the less. It's fairly directional.
Hopefully Dish (and others) will have the local HDs available, supposedly by the end of the year, following another satellite launch late summer.

http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/product.do?BV_UseBVCookie=Yes&vertical=ELEC&pid=05768514000

I bought a 55" from BB that looked spectacular, but it had one dead pixel. I was so happy with the picture that I told them to go ahead and upgrade me to the 60" while they were at it.

So I got a 60" with no dead pixels. Problem was that looked great, went fuzzy, looked great, went fuzzy, etc. I checked everything else, and it wasn't a signal issue. So, I had BB exchange it and now I've got one that has a perfect picture - the best I've seen yet and it's not even tweaked a bit.

New problem = In three different locations I see something that looks like a black speck behind the screen. I went to BB today, and their tv had one spot like this. I went to two other stores and no problems with their sets. Has anybody seen anything like this? Do I have bad luck or what? I have a tech coming in the morning and I hope it's just dust on the panels or similar, as this set has a great picture. I fear having to get a 4th set.

Welp, my 55 WF655 was delivered this morning.:D All I can say is WOW!!! I love the dvd's alot, Dish is better than I expected. I just had to run out and get a longer power cable for the tv to my monster HTS 3500. But now its all up and running. Later I will scan to get some HD later durring the peak hours with my cable. Well back to watching.:D

One question.

When watching a 2:35 DVD in wide zoom, even after setting the vertical center and overscan there still is about a 1/4 inch black bars top and bottom. Is this normal since thats the smallest format? Is it ok to watch it in its native 2:35 without worry of burn in? I like it better since the screen is so big anyways.:) Yes, I turned the set on and turned it to Pro mode and turned down the settings on all inputs to be safe.

Originally posted by bluer101
One question.

When watching a 2:35 DVD in wide zoom, even after setting the vertical center and overscan there still is about a 1/4 inch black bars top and bottom. Is this normal since thats the smallest format? Is it ok to watch it in its native 2:35 without worry of burn in?

That was TWO questions. :D

Congrats on your fine purchase! Yes, the 2:35 aspect ratio is wider than the 16:9 screen, so you will get black bars on the top and bottom for those extra-widescreen (some call them "scope") movies Recommended setting is to leave the bars there so you don't cut off anything.

NO worry about burn-in with LCD TVs. :cool:

Could someone tell me how wide the actual picture is for the 50" and 57" when viewing in 4:3 format? That will help me decide on which one to get.

Thanks in advance!

Originally posted by DaverJ
That was TWO questions. :D

Congrats on your fine purchase! Yes, the 2:35 aspect ratio is wider than the 16:9 screen, so you will get black bars on the top and bottom for those extra-widescreen (some call them "scope") movies Recommended setting is to leave the bars there so you don't cut off anything.

NO worry about burn-in with LCD TVs. :cool:

Thanks for the response. Sorry it was to questions.:) Just doing a channel search now with regular cable without a set top box. So far

Analog 76
Digital 270
Shown 6 ?????

I have PBS, NBC which is all weather now, TNT, Channel showing world poker tour all in HD with out a box. Straight cable out of the wall. Where is like AbC, CBS, FOX in HD? Should I rescan later?

Originally posted by bluer101
I have PBS, NBC which is all weather now, TNT, Channel showing world poker tour all in HD with out a box. Straight cable out of the wall. Where is like AbC, CBS, FOX in HD? Should I rescan later?

It sounds like your local digital channels aren't on cable - check with your cable company. You maybe need to hook up an antenna to receive them over-the-air.

Bluer101- My GWIV's OTA built-in tuner skipped the signals of NBC, ABC, CBS, and WB due to the faulty circuit board. The Circuit City tech will come here Monday to fix the tuner problem. There is a discussion in another thread about GWIV ATSC tuner problem. Look like GWIV has a major hardware issue with tuner like GWIII had with the bulb.

Originally posted by Greg Wood
Bluer101- My GWIV's OTA built-in tuner skipped the signals of NBC, ABC, CBS, and WB due to the faulty circuit board. The Circuit City tech will come here Monday to fix the tuner problem. There is a discussion in another thread about GWIV ATSC tuner problem. Look like GWIV has a major hardware issue with tuner like GWIII had with the bulb.

I have not tried to use the OTA tunner yet. I was using the non-encripted channels the local cable passes through.

Think from reading it sounds like the XS series is having this problem, not the WE or WF series. I could be wrong though.:confused:

Tech came out and blew off some particulate matter on the mirror- problem solved. Odd to see the TV apart as it's basically empty. Oh well, it's all good now...I hope.

Bluer101- people have reported that they have some trouble with picking up the HD channels through the cable and OTA. It seems the GWIV family(WE, WF, and XS) shares the similar tuner problem that people have experienced(skip the channels, audio, and loses the channel lineup).

I bought the probably first WE model of the GWIV family when it came out in the market last October. My family was addicted to this tv - thats probably why the circuit board may be fried. Can't wait to see what the tech says after he checks my KDF42WE655 on Monday.

Greg,

Ok I did not know since I reserched this TV on here for a month or so and just recieved mine yesterday. The production date on the back is February 2005. So its fairly new.:) So far I love the set. I'm going to get an indoor antenna today to give it a try. If not no big deal just call dish for a HD reciever and then wait for the launch of the locals later this year, hopefully.

Bluer101- Your XS has ATSC built-in tuner! So why bother to buy the separate antenna?!

Check the website http://www.checkhd.com for the OTA HD locals available.

Just run the Auto scan to find both cable and OTA channels automatically.

Originally posted by Greg Wood
Bluer101- Your XS has ATSC built-in tuner! So why bother to buy the separate antenna?!


Huh? Yes, it has a built in ATSC tuner, but he still needs an antenna to recieve the signals.

Originally posted by Greg Wood
Bluer101- Your XS has ATSC built-in tuner! So why bother to buy the separate antenna?!


I don't understand this question... a tuner needs an antenna. There is no antenna in the set. How else is the built-in tuner going to pick up the over-the-air signals?

DaveJ & JimWCB: you are right! GWIV does not have the antenna. I did not realzie that I received the OTA signals through the Comcast cable. Thats strange.

Originally posted by Greg Wood
Here is the description about ATSC tuner from one of XS model at Sony website"

"ATSC Integrated Tuner allows the reception of local, off-air digital broadcasts providing the viewing of free, true high-definition network programming without the addition of a set top box or a monthly fee."


I think you are confusing a "set top box" with "antenna". A set top box is a tuner, which needs a signal source, via cable or antenna. The XS line doesn't need a set top box, but it does need a antenna or cable programming to supply a signal to the tuner.

Keep in mind that if the signals are strong enough, you might be able to pull in over the air signals without an antenna... but that's just lucky.

Davej: see my revised post above. I am puzzled about the OTA signals sent over the cable. Now I "lost" about 8 out of 30 OTA HD signals over cable that connects straight to my set without use the STB recently. Obviously I did not realize that I have to buy the antenna for GWIV.

Seems to be some confusion about the difference between cable and OTA (over the air) signals. Your built in ATSC tuner is capable of receiving both. If you connect a coax cable directly from the wall (no STB) and do a digital channel scan, you will get several HD channels that you can lose occasionally as Comcast or other cable providers play around with what QAM they are broadcasting on. A re-scan can possibly regain them, but not always and not always on the same channel they were on before.

OTA actually means over the air (not through your cable...although the term is misused that way often). OTA HD channels vary, depending upon your area. Depending on how close you are to the broadcast sites, you might receive OTA via either an indoor or outdoor antenna.

One question about the tv in general that I noticed.

Since I have been playing with all the settings today, I have started to keep the wide setting to wide zoom for dish and cable. Since when you get an HD channel it changes back to full which is normal. When I change inputs it still keeps the wide zoom because of the 4.3 default I have off. The wierd thing is when I change input to watch a DVD, the DVD player menu (when you turn the DVD player onwithout a disk in) is in 4.3 shown when I press display. But if I put a movie in and press play it automatically changes to full and the tv display will say 480i 16.9. Then between the previews it some times will change from the wide zoom and full. But when the movie starts it is in full and reads 480i 16.9.

So if all this happens does this mean that when the tv recieves a 4.3 picture it uses the already selected screen format or the preselected default? Then when the tv recieves a 16.9 formate it changes to full?
It was weird at first but, i tried a couple of dvd's out and thats how it works. Yes my DVD player menu is set to a 16.9 screen. Hope all this makes sense.:) Just the tv is loaded with so many options.:D

Originally posted by bluer101
One question about the tv in general that I noticed.

...

Then when the tv receives a 16.9 formate it changes to full?


I"m not sure I understand the question correctly, but maybe this info will answer what you are asking about:

With DVDs, in order to be 16:9 it is mastered in an "anamorphic" format which compresses a widescreen image into a 4:3 ratio (NTSC screen format). Included with this anamorphic format is an invisable "widescreen flag" which tells the DVD player that it's a compressed image so, if the player knows the connected TV has a widescreen format, it will expand the image to fill the 16:9.

DVDs often have a mixture of anamorphic and standard images. For example, the movie may be mastered anamorphic, but bonus materials like out-takes, trailers, etc. might *not* have been mastered for anamorphic widescreen. When your 16:9 TV receives an anamorphic image that has the widescreen flag, the TV will switch to 16:9 mode. When it doesn't receive the widescreen flag for standard 4:3 images, the TV should switch back to standard 4:3 image with black on the left and right.

An interesting and confusing example of this mix of anamorphic and non-anamorphic is the movie "Ray". You can select to watch the movie with deleted scenes inserted in the movie at the proper time. The movie has been mastered for 16:9 anamorphic, but the deleted scenes are not! :rolleyes: So when one of these deleted scenes appears, the screen switches and what used to be a full 16:9 image is now a standard 4:3 letterboxed image! :rolleyes: When the deleted scene ends and the movie switches back to the theatrical version... BOOM, back to 16:9 widescreen. I don't know why they couldn't master the deleted scenes anamorphicly - it's very distracting to have the movie keep switching formats.

With the know issues with the KDF50WE655 (dead pixels) would it be worth getting the set at some place like Abe's of Maine for the cost savings, and take the chance of getting a set with issues, or should I bite the bullet and pay a few hundred more and get it from a local retailer?

If I get it on-line, I don't have to pay tax, and can get it delivered for about $700 less than I could get it at a local store.

Originally posted by sawyer1370
With the know issues with the KDF50WE655 (dead pixels) would it be worth getting the set at some place like Abe's of Maine for the cost savings, and take the chance of getting a set with issues, or should I bite the bullet and pay a few hundred more and get it from a local retailer?

If I get it on-line, I don't have to pay tax, and can get it delivered for about $700 less than I could get it at a local store.

That's a question only you can answer.

It comes down to a $700 gamble. There's a good chance you'll get a perfect set from Abe's, and there's the same good chance you'll get a perfect set from Best Buy, Circuit City or Sears. If you don't get a perfect set, exchanging or getting a refund from BB/CC/Sears is probably a lot easier than Abes. That ease of return has some value - would it (or the piece of mind it brings) be worth $700 to you?

I'll say I was in the exact same boat as you - I was even looking to buy at Abes. But when it came down to it, I wanted to go with a local place I could bring an issue to a person face to face and I wanted to buy an extended warranty from that same place.

If your question is regarding the failure rate for these sets (dead pixels and whatnot), I doubt anyone on this board can give you an accurate answer. I have yet to find a single dead pixel on my 60XS955... I'm not saying I don't have any, I just haven't found one yet.

Originally posted by DaverJ
I"m not sure I understand the question correctly, but maybe this info will answer what you are asking about:

With DVDs, in order to be 16:9 it is mastered in an "anamorphic" format which compresses a widescreen image into a 4:3 ratio (NTSC screen format). Included with this anamorphic format is an invisable "widescreen flag" which tells the DVD player that it's a compressed image so, if the player knows the connected TV has a widescreen format, it will expand the image to fill the 16:9.

DVDs often have a mixture of anamorphic and standard images. For example, the movie may be mastered anamorphic, but bonus materials like out-takes, trailers, etc. might *not* have been mastered for anamorphic widescreen. When your 16:9 TV receives an anamorphic image that has the widescreen flag, the TV will switch to 16:9 mode. When it doesn't receive the widescreen flag for standard 4:3 images, the TV should switch back to standard 4:3 image with black on the left and right.

An interesting and confusing example of this mix of anamorphic and non-anamorphic is the movie "Ray". You can select to watch the movie with deleted scenes inserted in the movie at the proper time. The movie has been mastered for 16:9 anamorphic, but the deleted scenes are not! :rolleyes: So when one of these deleted scenes appears, the screen switches and what used to be a full 16:9 image is now a standard 4:3 letterboxed image! :rolleyes: When the deleted scene ends and the movie switches back to the theatrical version... BOOM, back to 16:9 widescreen. I don't know why they couldn't master the deleted scenes anamorphicly - it's very distracting to have the movie keep switching formats.

That is what I was looking for. Just you put it in better words than me.:)

When I was looking at the KDF50WE655 compared to the Mits WD52525 DLP, and the sales guy mentioned something about the LCD's 1080i not being a true ratio, compared to the DLP technology. What did he mean by that if anyone actually knows.

I'm so torn between the 2 sets I can't figure out which to choose.

Lastly, is the XS sets that much better than the WE sets?

Originally posted by sawyer1370
When I was looking at the KDF50WE655 compared to the Mits WD52525 DLP, and the sales guy mentioned something about the LCD's 1080i not being a true ratio, compared to the DLP technology. What did he mean by that if anyone actually knows.

I'm so torn between the 2 sets I can't figure out which to choose.

Lastly, is the XS sets that much better than the WE sets?

I'm not sure what that sales guy was talking about. Maybe he was talking about contrast ratio, where the DLP technology favors deeper blacks, but that has nothing to do with 1080i. :rolleyes:

Anyway, the WE sets are very similar to the XS sets internally. The XS sets have a couple more picture tweaking options in the video menu, and better speakers. Other than that, it's pretty much cosmetic.

Good luck with your choice - both are excellent so whichever you choose you'll wind up with a great HDTV.

Both the WF and XS are later models than the WE. The XS is set apart by more user controls for black level, color, and gamma correction as well as better speakers. Price difference between the WF and XS averages $300-400.
Both are available as 55 or 60" displays.

Both the Mits and Sony have the same high definition display capability. I have doubts HE knows what he is talking about..They are two different technologies (MITS is DLP and the Sony is LCD RP) accomplishing the same thing, so beware of 'salesspeak'.

Which picture you like better is a personal thing.

When I was looking at the KDF50WE655 compared to the Mits WD52525 DLP, and the sales guy mentioned something about the LCD's 1080i not being a true ratio, compared to the DLP technology. What did he mean by that if anyone actually knows.

I'm so torn between the 2 sets I can't figure out which to choose.


I had the Mits at home for 29 days, but ended up returning it and eventually keeping the Sony (WF655, but basically the same as what you're considering). One thing I found out is that you learn 100x about the sets once they are in your house compared to watching in stores. I believe this is because you see more kinds of content, especially stuff you're familiar with, you calibrate the box properly, and most importantly, you watch the set in low light conditions, which stores never have.

So if you're really close to deciding, I recommend jumping in, with a merchant with a good return policy that carries both, and you'll learn a lot once you get the set in your house.

My personal experience was that the Mits was absolutely stellar, except I would see the rainbows. I never saw them in stores beforehand, which I think is due to their brighter lighting. I think the Sony picture is 95% as good as the Mits, and although I see a very small amount of screen door effect, I find it easy to ignore compared to the rainbows. Both sets are very high quality and have a great feature set.

One advantage is the Sony fan is way, way quieter. The Mits fan was slightly audible for us during quiet scenes, although we have a bad room setup in this regard (no enclosure, hard wall behind the set to reflect sound). I would have still kept the Mits if it weren't for the rainbows, and maybe put some sound tiles behind it.

As far as the 1080i comment, I think the sales guy was full of crap. Some of them are good, but I ran into a bunch who would talk complete, utter nonsense.

Well, 1080 is actually 1088 (it truncates 8 lines). For 1080 to be both progressive and interlaced (acquisition is usually progressive, transmission is always interlaced, LCD/DLP displays always display even 1080i progressively, although the benefits of progressive have been lost by then) The total scan lines must be divisible by both 16 and 32. Hence, 1088. You will notice that a true 16x9 display will typically show more overscan in the vertical direction than in the horizontal direction at 1080i, probably for this reason. Maybe that's where he has confusion about "true ratio". But that applies to all display technologies, including both DLP and LCD.

BTW, zero dead pixels on my 60XS. Accept nothing less.

Originally posted by TomCat
LCD.

BTW, zero dead pixels on my 60XS. Accept nothing less.

I wonder how many do actually have dead pixels on any Sony rear projection LCD. I suspect not many, and of course it should be 'not acceptable', whether it's a WE, XBR or anything in between.

Currently I'm using a cablecard with my 55WF and am satisfied with SD and blown away by HD and the digital channels. However, I do want the luxury of a DVR so on Friday Comcast will be installing a DVR, Motorola 6412. What concerns me is that the SD will look like crap and I'll have an unhappy wife and daughter. Does anybody have experience with this combination??? THanks.

richjam,

just run a splitter on the incomming cable.... 1 to the box, 1 directly to the tv
then you can bypass the box for all unscrambled material (unless you keep the card, in which case it will all be unscrambled). That's what I do with my "Explorer" box, but I find SD looks fine from either source. I use it more so that I can record 2 things on the DVR and watch something else.

Originally posted by videoaddikt
I wonder how many do actually have dead pixels on any Sony rear projection LCD. I suspect not many, and of course it should be 'not acceptable', whether it's a WE, XBR or anything in between.

I have one stuck blue pixel in the lower right hand corner. Not a big deal since you have to get up with in 2 feet to really see it. If I exchange it might end up with a worse one.

Originally posted by bluer101
I have one stuck blue pixel in the lower right hand corner. Not a big deal since you have to get up with in 2 feet to really see it. If I exchange it might end up with a worse one.

If you have to get that close to see it, then it's probably not worth the effort, I would agree. And certainly there are worse defects that are always noticeable.
The point is you don't HAVE TO accept it. But according to most manufacturers, there is a very generous (for them) policy on how many bad pixels are allowed and if they are in a group, etc. etc. While some manufacturers will say it falls within normal limits, many local dealers with take back sets with lesser problems on an exchange basis.

Originally posted by bluer101
Thanks guys.:) As soon as I get the tv after a few tries with the cable and enjoying the new set, I will give Dish a call to talk about a deal. If not I thought of using a Squareshooter antenna since the antenna website says I ned a med directional antenna. Is this antenna any good? Would it be better than the silver sensor you guys talk about?

I got that Zenith Antenna too. It's great! Gets all my local HD channels clear and sweet. Amazon has it too (Item model number: ZHDTV1) for about half of Sears.

Originally posted by richjam
Currently I'm using a cablecard with my 55WF and am satisfied with SD and blown away by HD and the digital channels. However, I do want the luxury of a DVR so on Friday Comcast will be installing a DVR, Motorola 6412. What concerns me is that the SD will look like crap and I'll have an unhappy wife and daughter. Does anybody have experience with this combination??? THanks.

I hope it's better than the Motorola Moxi Adelphia foists off on us!
I'd give it a try if I were you. Tell us what you think, maybe in the HDDVR forum??

I recently purchased a 60WF655 and really enjoy the HD but am a bit disappointed by alot of the other offerings. I watch most on satellite(unfortunately not HD) and the picture is often rather poor fuzzy and lacks distinction and the same goes for alot of the viewing on the local digital channels.(when not in HD). I rarely expand the 4x3 picture cause it looks that much worse. I am 12 ft from the tv and have swapped cables, inputs and tweaked alot but still am diasappointed. So to get to my question, is what I am seeing the norm or maybe my tv is not quite up to snuff? If it all was in HD, I would be quite happy but sadly it is not. Perhaps a smaller screen may be the way to go. Is the amount of HD tv expected to increase substantialy soon? Thanks for reading and suggestions welcomed. (I still have time to return this one if I were reasonably sure the next one would be better.)
regards
rest.

I just got the 60wf655 and I am floored by it..DVD great...Digital Cable (Charter) looks great too. I have noticed some channels are much clearer than others though I would have to guess it is a source issue. Overall I am very pleased with Digital and analog on my set. I am sitting 8 ft. away.
Now Charter is hooking me up tomorrow with DVR and the HD package....
cant wait. If I notice any difference in quality I will post about it.

Well, my 3rd Sony had no dead pixels and a great picture but had black specks on the screen. The service tech came out, took it apart, blew some air inside and it alleviated the problem. Basically crud on the screen.

It looks great now, but I don't think one should have to clean out a new $4000 tv. I love it, but it took three tv's and a service tech to get it right. Glad I got the warranty.

Aside, it's interesting to see the inside of this beast. It's empty as can be. All the technology is in the bottom. No wonder it's so light.

Richjam, see http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=5537726#post5537726 and later posts for some info about SD and the Motorola STB. The bottom line for me is that analog SD is tolerable, digital SD is OK, HD is quite good. The SD quality is worse than if I run the cable signal straight into my 55WF655, but my choice is to live with that for the benefits of the DVR.

To the new owners who are concerned about Standard Definition and/or digital channels broadcasting SD....

TVs can only display what is being broadcasted. The higher quality of TV, the better the best broadcast or recording can look. But this also gives opportunity to directly compare high quality with lesser quality.

For standard definition, different channels and even different shows on the same channel will have vast differences in quality. That quality change is almost invisible on 35" or less SD TVs. But in the world of big screen HD, it is VERY apparent the quality change between programming.

Think of it this way: you have been enjoying music on a small transistor AM radio. Now you have a Hi-Fi stereo. The quality of some of that music will sound wonderful, some will sound awful (think recordings from the 30s and 40s). Its always going to be louder and "clearer" on a modern stereo than the transistor radio, but there might be times where you think the older small radio was "better".

I'm strongly considering the 60WF or the 55XS. Is it worth the money for the 55XS for the PQ and sacrifice a little size? I know the owners of the XS will say there is a significant difference, but I think some might be a bit bias.

I'm curious what WF owners have to say.

55WF655 owner here and to me it is very much a matter of prospective. The picture quality on both sets can be very good, just a matter of what YOU want and need. One or two HDMI inputs? More user menu adjustments? Traditional look or a more modern look. I have not seen a tweaked XS but my WF looks very good, even on SD. The kicker for me was more the cosmetic look of the cabinets than any gains in pq due to the added user menu adjustments. For others the cosmetic look of the XS is much more appealing. There is no magic answer, you'll just have to decide what is best for your application....and then don't look back.

Originally posted by sawyer1370
I'm strongly considering the 60WF or the 55XS. Is it worth the money for the 55XS for the PQ and sacrifice a little size?

XS owner here and both the WF and XS are so similar except for cosmetic that I would say go for the size you need. Remember that bigger is not necessarily better for SD and DVD, it depends on viewing distance.

But if you need an extra HDMI or want better speakers, seriously consider the XS.

I agree with DaverJ and Lynns_rich. I have a 55WF, which I upgraded to from a 50WF (within the 30 day return period) solely for the difference in the look of the cabinet. I seriously considered the 55XS, but decided against the extra cost because (1) I didn't want that big of a cabinet, (2) I was able to tweak the 50WF to how I liked it without the extra flexibility of the XS, (3) for the most part, for movies I play through my AV system so the XS speakers did not matter to me that much and (4) the number of HDMI's was not an issue to me, especially since it is limited in what it can do. By the way, the sound through the WF speakers is pretty good, although I'm sure not as good as the XS. I did not consider the 60" because of my room size.

Someone mentioned making the choice between a 55XS and a 60WF. For the price difference (around $100) I would go with the 55XS for the extra adjustments available. I can always sit closer.
But the 55WF fits my area, budget, and taste, pefectly. And no, I would not go with a 50XS if it existed for a small difference. That's TOO small. :)

I searched this whole thread and was unable to find this answer. Does anyone know if the plastic base can be removed. I have the tv in a custom cabinet and the base sticks out too much.

Originally posted by JimmyW
Does anyone know if the plastic base can be removed. I have the tv in a custom cabinet and the base sticks out too much.

Which TV?

I don't think the bases of any RPTV can be removed because this is where the light engine is located. This part is almost all of what the TV is.

Thanks for the input on the WF vs the XS. My room is an open concept, so my viewing distance could vary by 3 to 4 feet if I wanted. I'm thinking the distance will be about 10 feet. I do like the style of the WF better, and the better speakers on the XS don't matter because the sound will go through my AV system. I measured out the size of the 2 sets, and put tape up to get an idea of the size. The 60" is huge. My wife couldn't believe I was even considering it.

As far as the WF vs. the XS, I'll bring my wife along next time and let her make the final decision, since I can't really decide.

The portion of the base that stick foward past the monitor is what I am referring to

For me it was a no brainer. At 10 feet, 55" is about the max size or you'll be seeing lots of screendoor. I'm also biased towards the WF since it looks much cooler with the gray border and it really helps when watching 4:3 programs. As for adjustments, I personally think that is overblown since there is enough to find the right setting for you.

Originally posted by sawyer1370
Thanks for the input on the WF vs the XS. My room is an open concept, so my viewing distance could vary by 3 to 4 feet if I wanted. I'm thinking the distance will be about 10 feet...The 60" is huge. My wife couldn't believe I was even considering it.

As far as the WF vs. the XS, I'll bring my wife along next time and let her make the final decision, since I can't really decide.

I think I just heard one of your nuts drop and roll under the sofa. :D

Seriously, there is an optimum viewing distance for HD. The ATSC planned the entire HD spec around a viewing distance of 3.3 times the screen height. For the 60XS, that works out to 7.8 ft. The 55 would be a bit less. If you get too close, you begin to see the SDE (I can't see it until about 5.5 to 6 feet on the 60), and if you get very much farther than 8 or 9 feet, the HD resolution advantage is wasted, because the human eye can only resolve 1/60 of a degree of arc.

One tip, that "huge" 60XS looks a lot better to the wife factor if the stand is only 15-18 inches high, which also makes the picture look better when seated. The obvious answer for this setup then would be a 60, but many compromise by having a favorite chair they can temporarily drag to the strategic "sweet spot" when doing serious viewing.

As far as the "difference" between the XS and the WF/E, the only way you will ever really know whether it matters to you is to go to the showroom and do the XS menu tweaks that the enthusiasts in this forum have posted (gamma, live color, clear white, etc.), and see if it matters to you. It is human nature to try to validate a large purchase after the fact (convince yourself and anyone else that will listen that you did the right thing) or consequently to poo-poo someone else's purchase by attempting to convince one's self that any advantage they might have "overpaid" for is over-rated (we see a lot of that here), but to me the differences the XS can impart to the viewing experience are definitely worth it. But then that's just me.

Originally posted by TomCat


As far as the "difference" between the XS and the WF/E, the only way you will ever really know whether it matters to you is to go to the showroom and do the XS menu tweaks that the enthusiasts in this forum have posted (gamma, live color, clear white, etc.), and see if it matters to you. It is human nature to try to validate a large purchase after the fact (convince yourself and anyone else that will listen that you did the right thing) or consequently to poo-poo someone else's purchase by attempting to convince one's self that any advantage they might have "overpaid" for is over-rated (we see a lot of that here), but to me the differences the XS can impart to the viewing experience are definitely worth it. But then that's just me.

So are there any adjustments in the XS menu that don't have equivalents in the WF service menu?

Need help with a problem! I am observing some kind of noise with my TV. I dont know how to accurately describe it. Its almost like the Black-White dancing dots that appear on the screen when there is no signal. Imagine that on the background of the picture.

I do see it with Cable input (component) as well as DVD (composite) which makes me think its not an input problem.

This is my second set and I dont remember noticing it on the first set, which I had only for 3 days and had to return unfortunately due to a scratch on the screen. I am considering returning this one also.

Originally posted by jwingstrom
So are there any adjustments in the XS menu that don't have equivalents in the WF service menu?

A good point. There may indeed be equivalents, in fact, I think there are at least for gamma.

Oddly though, it's coming up on 8 months after the GWIV shipped, and we're on page 155 of this thread by now and no one has posted them here or posted having any success whatsoever in that area. I'm a techie at heart, and make a living delving inside a lot of complicated electronic equipment that the general public never even sees, and I even hacked into my 60XS's pod speakers so that they could serve as center channel speakers, but it takes balls of steel to screw around in the service menu of your new $4K GWIV during the warranty period, or even after. I ventured in once, and the codes are so obscure as to be useless without a Sony roadmap (I ended up having to reset to factory and spent 2 hours retweaking to get back to my original settings which had taken me two months to achieve).

So good luck with that. :)

Never mind, I changed the power supply and it looks a lot better now. I replaced monster surge protector with belkin when I got the new unit.

Originally posted by packerzz
Need help with a problem! I am observing some kind of noise with my TV. I dont know how to accurately describe it. Its almost like the Black-White dancing dots that appear on the screen when there is no signal. Imagine that on the background of the picture.

I do see it with Cable input (component) as well as DVD (composite) which makes me think its not an input problem.

This is my second set and I dont remember noticing it on the first set, which I had only for 3 days and had to return unfortunately due to a scratch on the screen. I am considering returning this o
ne also.

I recently purchased the 60wf655 and really love it. This TV shines with the lights out and a good dvd on. Anyway...I have a couple questions.
Where is the power save mode on this tv??? I cant seem to find it in the menus and while the manual says it has this feature but it doesnt say where.
Also...I got the Motorola STB with MOXI from Charter and it has a DVI out on it. I am currently using Composite cables....CATV>MOTO>TV
Would I notice an improved PQ with an upgrade to DVI>HDMI?
On a side note....anyone else see strange black flashes on HD Discovery on some shows??? It looks like the picture gets darker from the outside toward the inside of the picture. It flashes about every 1-2 seconds. I know it is source as it only happens on HD-Disc. and only with certain shows. Pretty annoying.
Thanks in advance!

Originally posted by Couch Commander
I recently purchased the 60wf655 and really love it. This TV shines with the lights out and a good dvd on. Anyway...I have a couple questions.
Where is the power save mode on this tv??? I cant seem to find it in the menus and while the manual says it has this feature but it doesnt say where.
Also...I got the Motorola STB with MOXI from Charter and it has a DVI out on it. I am currently using Composite cables....CATV>MOTO>TV
Would I notice an improved PQ with an upgrade to DVI>HDMI?
On a side note....anyone else see strange black flashes on HD Discovery on some shows??? It looks like the picture gets darker from the outside toward the inside of the picture. It flashes about every 1-2 seconds. I know it is source as it only happens on HD-Disc. and only with certain shows. Pretty annoying.
Thanks in advance!

Can't speak to the 'flashing'. With my Dish, HD-Disc remains quite flawless.
Since it is only on that channel, I would suspect your provider.
For the same reason, I can not speak to the HDMI dilemma. I notice little PQ diff with components.
(NEVER USE COMPOSITE!... I think you meant components.)

At the bottom of the MENU you should see a Power Saving option.

Originally posted by TomCat
Well, 1080 is actually 1088 (it truncates 8 lines).... The total scan lines must be divisible by both 16 and 32. Hence, 1088. You will notice that a true 16x9 display will typically show more overscan in the vertical direction than in the horizontal direction at 1080i, probably for this reason.

Where did you get this from??

1920x1080 is the precise resolution, which is a true 16:9 ratio.
So is 1280x720 and 720 is not evenly divisible by 32 either.

As for the resolution of the display devices (which is what the original post refers to), neither the DLP nor LCD sets mentioned can display 1080 lines anyway.

Jeff

Does anyone know when Sony will stop producing the 55WF655 that is currently in stores now, and when the new TV's are coming out? I'm looking to pull the trigger on one, but we are building an in-wall entertainment center, and I don't really want to get the TV until that is done (which will be about 6 weeks).

Now I'm thinking of taking advantage of Circuit City's sale price and just putting it on layaway until then, but want to make sure that I will be able to get one. I have called around, and it seems a lot of stores don't have the sets in inventory.

Yeah CC here was not going to get anymore 60's in stock so I bought one a couple weeks ago(floor model). I didnt want to cut it too close and miss out on getting one so I went for it and the prices are great right now to boot. Good Luck!

Ok, in easy to understand language, what exactly does the HDMI port do, and do I even need it, and why? I think that is the biggest thing between the XS and WF sets. Please explain.

Originally posted by sawyer1370
Ok, in easy to understand language, what exactly does the HDMI port do, and do I even need it, and why? I think that is the biggest thing between the XS and WF sets. Please explain.

Not sure how 'easy' this is, but here's the FAQ-
http://www.hdmi.org/consumer/faq.asp

Ok, one last question. How wide is the base of the TV? I know the total width is 57", but how wide is the base section?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=4463869#post4463869
:D

After reading through the 150+ pages of this thread, I think I'm ready to pull the trigger on a 55WF655. CC has a pretty good price on this model.

I also found a couple "refurbished" ones for about the same price, but including the 5 year warranty too. Does anyone think buying a refurb model is all that risky seeing as how I'll also get the 5 year sony plan too?

<Edited as to not break pricing rules>

I've had some experience buying TVs from companies that deal with refurbished units. My experiences haven't been good, although eventually (in one case, after 2 and a half months), my problems were rectified and all is okay. I won't go through that again though.

Buying through a company like CC allows for return of faulty units and not just repair. I bought my 55XS955 through TW....er and although I paid more than I would have from a refurb company, I've had great service and piece of mind. I purchased my warranty through TV Auth...

Ok, I pulled the trigger on the 55WF655. Now with all this talk of cable cards, HDMI and other stuff, what do I need to set up my new HDTV. This is my first HDTV, so besides getting the coax cable hooked up, how do I need to set things up to get the best PQ.

I have a Pioneer 1014 receiver, Pioneer DV 578A DVD (which is not a progressive scan player to my knowledge) and Cox Communication. I know I need to get a HD DVR from my cable company. Are there any additional cables or anything else.

Thanks for all the help and info in helping me make my decision. I can't wait to get it all set up.

Originally posted by sawyer1370
Ok, I pulled the trigger on the 55WF655. Now with all this talk of cable cards, HDMI and other stuff, what do I need to set up my new HDTV. This is my first HDTV, so besides getting the coax cable hooked up, how do I need to set things up to get the best PQ.

I have a Pioneer 1014 receiver, Pioneer DV 578A DVD (which is not a progressive scan player to my knowledge) and Cox Communication. I know I need to get a HD DVR from my cable company. Are there any additional cables or anything else.

Thanks for all the help and info in helping me make my decision. I can't wait to get it all set up.

Congrats! You will love it!
The Pioneer 578 IS a progressive player. But on the WF I saw no improvement using the progessive feature over 480i.
And 480i looks 'decent'.
I got one of the Sony '975 digital output DVD players, and using the HDMI output the picture was noticeably better than my older Pioneer 563A (predecessor to yours). In fact, using just components and non-prog. it is better IMHO.
Sad tale to follow, my 975 failed (not uncommon), and I am waiting for a new replacement this week. We picked up a 575 for 80 bucks at sears for our bedroom TV.
Using it with the WF55 I must say the picture is almost every bit as good as the 975 was. A bit more grain, but a noticeable improvement overall compared with the Pioneer.
I have done tweaks on my Wega and have been very happy with it.
You experience with DVD players may vary some. Just don't expect to have your socks knocked off like when you watch HDNet or HD-Disc for the first time.

Originally posted by videoaddikt

You experience with DVD players may vary some. Just don't expect to have your socks knocked off like when you watch HDNet or HD-Disc for the first time.

This is a good caveat - DVDs are not HD. If you want to check out what movies should look like, Fox is now showing blockbusters in HD on Friday nights, and ABC shows HD movies on Saturday nights.

A well done movie in HD almost gives that "IMAX" feel. Watching a DVD simply looks like the projector at an average movie theater.

Originally posted by DaverJ
This is a good caveat - DVDs are not HD. If you want to check out what movies should look like, Fox is now showing blockbusters in HD on Friday nights, and ABC shows HD movies on Saturday nights.

A well done movie in HD almost gives that "IMAX" feel. Watching a DVD simply looks like the projector at an average movie theater.

Exactly, of course for many of us this is the largest screen we have been able to watch a DVD on. :)

I couldnt agree more...I have never had a TV above 27 inches before a couple weeks ago. When I turn off the light and watch a DVD "my" theater comes to life. Something about Jurassic Park on a 60 inch screen in your living room just makes me happy.lol
The one thing I find annoying though is the green power light....anyway to make it go away besides black electrical tape??? :D

Originally posted by Couch Commander

The one thing I find annoying though is the green power light....anyway to make it go away besides black electrical tape??? :D

Beats an EXIT sign.... :D

Originally posted by jeff abc
Where did you get this from??

1920x1080 is the precise resolution, which is a true 16:9 ratio.
So is 1280x720 and 720 is not evenly divisible by 32 either.

As for the resolution of the display devices (which is what the original post refers to), neither the DLP nor LCD sets mentioned can display 1080 lines anyway.

Jeff

Where did I "get" this?

I made it up. Either that or it came to me on a flaming pie.

Seriously, it's a part of the ATSC coding standard, and can be found pretty much anywhere you look (I mean, even the Best Buy guy had an apparent but possibly warped understanding of it), but the ATSC document from 1995 entitled "Guide to the use of the digital television standard" or the "Standard handbook of video and television engineering", third edition, are probably good places to begin your search.

I'll break it down for the skeptical among us: To fit the video coding standard, the number of scanned lines for interlaced images must be divisible by 32, and the number for progressive images must be 16. Otherwise the slices and macroblocks don't come out evenly. Since the 1080 standard uses both I and P, it needs to be divisible by both, while 720p only needs to be divisible by 16.

Since 1080 isn't divisible by both, 1088 is used. The last 8 lines contain null packets and don't appreciably add to the overhead (although here's another reason 720p might be more efficient).

Whether or not your display natively displays 1080 or interpolates to 768 or 720 is not relevant, as it still has to deal with a delivered 1088 lines in any transmission that originates as 1080i. We just never see the last 8 lines, because they are either not scanned for display after decode, or they fall beyond the lower boundary of a true 16:9 display.

And that is exactly my point since, as you say, 1920x1080 divides "precisely" into 16:9, then 1080i (which has 1088 scan lines) is by definition "imprecise", regarding the 16:9 aspect ratio. Whether this accounts for the overscan difference, I really don't know. That's just a possible theory, sort of like the answer to another problem just might be "4", because we're pretty sure that we added 2+2 together. But the rest of it is science.

I tried posting this where it belongs in the Home Integration and Distribution thread with little in the way of response. I know there are some very skilled tweakers on this thread so I hope its not off subject, since my UI for testing is the GWIV (all I've got).

I'm now thinking "tweaking" signal strength should be part of the process to improve one's PQ results. I just added an amplifier in front of my 8 way splitter (non-amped) in the panel of my home. The amplifier can add as much as +10dBmV to the signal's strength. There is an adjustable knob to increase it between 0 and full. I can go to my cable STB and read the signal strength from the service menu.

So my questions, are:

Is there a target dBmV Signal Strength?

So what should I target as the dBmV read on the "Tuner" from the STB? I'm no expert, but I'll guess 0.

Are there also targets for RF, etc?

Thanks!

Signal strength is not really an issue with DTV. More is better with NTSC, because less signal is susceptible to analog noise. DTV reception is affected by noise a little (I think 14.9 dB is the noise threshold that seems to provide uninterrupted reception) but that does not translate to what carrier level is necessary, and that is somewhat relative to the particular environment. Noise does not affect PQ either (for DTV).

Amps have one purpose in the home, and that is to make up losses that arise from splitting the signal or from excessive cable runs (making your application valid) but unless splitting the signal causes a problem with reception (and it typically will not for DTV) I would recommend against it. Amps are also no help for weak signals, unless used as a preamp directly after the antenna. Unless you are certain that all of the desired signals fall within the operational window of an amps input (and will remain there regardless of weather and atmosphjeric conditions), which is difficult and sometimes impossible when combining various off-air signals, an amp will usually do more harm than good, and can harm PQ for analog signals as well as harm reception for DTV signals.

Analog NTSC usually starts to generate noise in the front end of a tuner when it drops below 0 dBmV, but DTV signals, being relatively impervious to noise in consumer reception situations, can be received at much less. Cable companies generally try to deliver 3 to 5 dBmV on all analog channels at the STB.

I would not overthink it. Since level is far less important in DTV, if it works, don't be fixin' it. Not only that, your metering system might not be optimized to read 8VSB digital carriers, which are fundamentally very different from analog ones, making any readings suspect.

Tweaking for level (DTV) may slightly affect integrity of reception, especially over time, but it will do absolutely nothing for PQ, and can cause more problems than it fixes.

Thanks TC. Its been a real ride with this subject since I'm in a community being built out and have watched signal strength decrease as new users come on board (neighbors). Also, since its a new home I'm thinking of future HDs around the house as older sets get replaced.

I appreciate the info.

Ok, I am now a proud owner of a 55WF655. Has anyone done the tweaking with the avia disc? I would be curious to know what settings things are at. Any info would be great.

Hello,

I own the KDF-55XS955 and have it "tweaked" by changing some of the settings in PRO mode. A buddy of mine just bought the KDF-55WF655 and I told him I would "tweak" it for him. Right now he is just using the out-of-box set up (plugged in the TV and turned it on and started watching).

Are the user menu setting options the same on the WF as on the XS?
If my recolition is correct (I'm at work now), some of the settings I can change are:

Color Temp
Noise Reduction
Mild Mode
BN = Off
LiveColor
ClearWhite
Detail Enhancer
Black Corrector
Gamma Corrector

Thanks,

Tim

Originally posted by timick1

ClearWhite
Detail Enhancer
Black Corrector
Gamma Corrector

Thanks,

Tim

The above adjustments are not available on the WF. Keep in mind, SOME options on the user's menu are 'enhancenemts' and not necessary (or advisable) if you go into the service menu and do additional tweaking.

Calibrating with Avia or DVE would be much the same for either model, just using the user menu. Staying in the Pro mode appears to be the best route all around.

Read the appropriate 'tweak' threads for further details on adjustments and calibration for each generation/model of the Grand Wega.

videoaddikt, I took a look for the tweaks thread for the WR model, but didn't find it. Any chance of providing a link to it?

Originally posted by sawyer1370
videoaddikt, I took a look for the tweaks thread for the WR model, but didn't find it. Any chance of providing a link to it?

You threw me with that one! I only having a passing knowledge of the WE series, with more knowledge of the WF/XS models.
Must be someone with more knowledge than me that can help with that.

Subject: Snowy background on HD channels

I have Comcast in Sunnyvale connected through component cables to my TV (42we655). The comcast box is a motorola 62xx with output set to 1080i. I have a Monster surge protector+clean power unit for all power sources.

What I notice is some active background (snow like) when the background is out of focus. It is more noticeable on light colored backgrounds. Its very had to see it on Discovery and ESPN (bright colors). I see it quite a bit on HBO and locals. It is not too much but just enough to make me concentrate on the background rather than watch the program.

Is this a common problem? Any one else see this and what have you done to rectify it? Could it be a bad unit?

I have posted to the local Comcast forum but the responses seem to indicate that cable problems manifest as pixelization and not as snow. Thanks for all the help!

I remember reading a similar post somewhere and switching surge protectors solved the problem. I wish I could find the post for you....can anyone confirm???? Is there a problem with monster products and these TV's?

Ok, I've got the TV set up, but I still need to get the HD box from my cable provider. So now I am playing with DVD's. I am using the s-video cable from my DVD to the back of the WF655.

In order to see the picture so it takes up most of the 55 inches, I need to view it on zoom. Is that normal? Also, what is the best way to connect my DVD to my TV and receiver to get the best PQ.

It's a little confusing because my owner manual for my Pioneer 1014 says to set things up one way, but the WF manual says to set it up another.

Lastly, I need to decide which DVD's to watch again in my new HT. This TV is gonna be a GREAT addition!

I need some help.

A couple of things to bear in mind. Not all 16:9 material is going ot take up ALL of the screen. Any movies with an aspect ratio greater than 1.85:1 is going leave black bars above and below the picture. In most cases this will apply to 2.35:1 aspect ratios. The next thing you have to do is to make sure your DVD player is set to output to a 16:9 display--just go into the DVD player's setup menu to adjust this.

The normal mode for your TV should be "FULL", not any of the zoom modes. As for connection to your receiver, I believe the 1014 does component video switching, right? If so, simply run the component outputs from your player to the receiver and run the component output from the back of the receiver into either of your TV's component video inputs. This all assumes that you want the receiver doing switching duties--you can, of course, connect the component outs from your player to the TV directly.

That was me sometime ago. I thought the problem went away, it didn't.

I tried different component cables (100$ monster ones), different power supplies (monster, belkin, some other brand), tried cable through monster clean power and without, different levels on noise reduction feature on TV and nothing helps.

Next logical step is to replace the Moto and then the TV. very frustrated! Will update you if I find something that fixes this problem.

If you can think of something else, please let me know. Thanks for all your help.

Originally posted by Couch Commander
I remember reading a similar post somewhere and switching surge protectors solved the problem. I wish I could find the post for you....can anyone confirm???? Is there a problem with monster products and these TV's?

Originally posted by packerzz
Subject: Snowy background on HD channels

I have Comcast...

What I notice is some active background (snow like) when the background is out of focus. It is more noticeable on light colored backgrounds. Its very had to see it on Discovery and ESPN (bright colors). I see it quite a bit on HBO and locals. It is not too much but just enough to make me concentrate on the background rather than watch the program.

Is this a common problem? Any one else see this and what have you done to rectify it? Could it be a bad unit?

I have posted to the local Comcast forum but the responses seem to indicate that cable problems manifest as pixelization and not as snow. Thanks for all the help!

I can't imagine that digitally delivered digital signals could acquire analog noise along the way, so I would rule that out. Most of the noise in HD channels comes from the original acqusition phase, which is based on noise created in the analog front end of a digital camera, typically from underexposure. A good example of this is Discovery HDT's "Sunrise Earth", where the bright, high-chroma areas look good, but the shadows have a lot of busy noise in them.

What you are describing is somewhat the opposite, being instead in low-chroma high-luminance areas of the picture. That would lead me to think that what you are describing as (random) noise or busy-ness may actually be quantization noise error, or even possibly mosquito noise, both of which can indeed be picked up along the digital delivery path, and most likely due to low-quality digital processing by your cable company. If on closer inspection the "noise" seems to be more pseudo-random than truly random, or if there appears to be banding in areas where there are gradual ramped luminance changes (very visible in out-of-focus backgrounds) I would suspect this even more.

This is not a common problem (at least with direct OTA HD or DTV HD delivery), is likely not from a bad unit (but it couldn't hurt to investigate that), and the best way to rectify that situation is drop Comcast, IMHO.

Tomcat....thanks for the info on Sunrise Earth. I thought it was just me. I actually had a post about it earlier in this thread. It is a great show but I cant watch it because the dark areas look like they flash and move. It only shows up for me on some Discovery programming. I am currently thinking of dropping Charter and trying out one of the dish companies instead. The Moxi box recently delivered seems to have degraded the quality of SD channels.(or maybe its because I watch more HD now...:rolleyes: )

Originally posted by packerzz
Subject: Snowy background on HD channels

What I notice is some active background (snow like) when the background is out of focus. It is more noticeable on light colored backgrounds. Its very had to see it on Discovery and ESPN (bright colors). I see it quite a bit on HBO and locals. It is not too much but just enough to make me concentrate on the background rather than watch the program.



I've always noticed something similar, does this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=5186306#post5186306) sound like what you're seeing?

I'm convinced it's the anti-glare texture/coating on the screen- if you get up close to the screen with the set off, the tiny bumps on the screen appear to match the general texture of what I see. The effect is identical on my Comcast feed, on DVDs, on OTA, etc.. I guess it's what they call the "silk screen effect".

Originally posted by jwingstrom
I've always noticed something similar, does this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=5186306#post5186306) sound like what you're seeing?

I'm convinced it's the anti-glare texture/coating on the screen- if you get up close to the screen with the set off, the tiny bumps on the screen appear to match the general texture of what I see. The effect is identical on my Comcast feed, on DVDs, on OTA, etc.. I guess it's what they call the "silk screen effect".

It sounds quite similar, but I found SSE manifests itself equally well on any channel (or DVD or OTA source) and with any image, with a light background.
Having little to no experience with any cable service (since 1990), I would hesitate to comment on the effect of that, positive or negative.

Is this a common problem? Or can I hope for better if I exchange. I am still in the 30 day window but its expiring. Please help!

I have suspected everything but the TV until now, but nothing seems to help. Comcast is coming tomorrow but I doubt if they could do anything.

Thanks for all the help.

Originally posted by videoaddikt
It sounds quite similar, but I found SSE manifests itself equally well on any channel (or DVD or OTA source) and with any image, with a light background.
Having little to no experience with any cable service (since 1990), I would hesitate to comment on the effect of that, positive or negative.

Originally posted by videoaddikt
It sounds quite similar, but I found SSE manifests itself equally well on any channel (or DVD or OTA source) and with any image, with a light background.
Having little to no experience with any cable service (since 1990), I would hesitate to comment on the effect of that, positive or negative.

No, I concur- it's present with any image or source. I've gotten mostly used to it and for me, it's an acceptable shortcoming given the realities of other 55" HDTV options in 2005. :D

I suspect that we are talking about a variety of things here, which are very easy to get confused. I replied about analog noise in dark areas of some content, which I think might be quite different from the random busy areas the original poster was describing.

SSE is something else yet again, and is technically sometimes referred to as "dirty window". It is artifacting that is continous but becomes more noticeable (and a bit stronger as well) when the camera pans, due to the delay of these artifacts clearing the screen in a timely manner. IOW, digital time-smearing of video due to poor encoding choices is visible, but when the camera pans it becomes very noticeable, as if a sheet of smeared glass were between the camera and subject. Being an artifact based on encoding choices, it is better or worse for different content, depending, and most noticeable on SD over DBS.

SDE is constant (although more or less visible depending upon screen brightness and background texture), and is a factor of RP displays having a window-screen-like structure, their native rez (higher means less SDE), and viewer distance (closer means more visible). Older LCD's used to really suffer from this, but latest-gen sets (GWIV) don't exhibit it at normal viewing distances. If you get close to a GWIV it will look like you are looking through a screen door. Again, something quite different.

I think what jwingstrom's post and link is describing is an artifact somewhat unique to certain lenticular screens including the GWIV. I would describe this as similar to when a clear shower door fogs up and the microscopic beads of water act like prisms. The "prism" component is probably why this appears more obviously on brighter, whiter, open fields of light. Obviously, it does not obscure detail the way an actual fogged piece of glass would (thank God), but it is a bit annoying, and visible even at normal viewing distances. I think it is an artifact that is a compromise, rising out of the manufacturer's attempts to maximize the viewing area and minimize the hot spot and angular light fall-off for RPs by microscopically etching the screen in some fashion. The pixel structure (RGB) somehow sets up an interference pattern with the etching, which results in zillions of tiny rainbows(very different than DLP rainbows). It also is more noticeable when the camera pans, because the individual prisms do not move with the picture, and even moving one's head ever so lightly makes them stand out. Thankfully, depending upon your viewing angle it only affects a small portion of the screen (for any particular viewer) at a time. Again, this is likely something else yet again from the original discussion.

I think there is little confusion as to the realities of SSE and SDE for most of us. And even some 'texture', if you will, as the result of the protective screen.

Beyond that, there could certainly be other factors contributing to visible anomalies that we can not conveniently categorize or even fully understand up to this point.

interesting.... I noticed this this problem right away (swimming pixels in bright scenes), and I have always assumed that is SSE. The more I watch it the more I am convinced the problem is very dependant on the source. There are plenty of bright scenes on certain sources where it looks perfect to me. I can see it on almost all DVDs and SD, but there's plenty of HD material in which I don't see it at all.... or maybe I'm just really used to it now.

Originally posted by mlodgek
interesting.... I noticed this this problem right away (swimming pixels in bright scenes), and I have always assumed that is SSE. The more I watch it the more I am convinced the problem is very dependant on the source. There are plenty of bright scenes on certain sources where it looks perfect to me. I can see it on almost all DVDs and SD, but there's plenty of HD material in which I don't see it at all.... or maybe I'm just really used to it now.

It might mean one bright scene with a light colored background will exhibit more SSE than another, depending on the specific brightness level. It's not an easy one to pin down.
I would agree, I see it less with a high quality HD image. I don't understand all the factors that might be coming into play, but PQ does appear to be one of them.

Ok, I have a question. I had my 55WF655 delivered on Thursday. I spent some time setting it up and finally got to watch some SD shows and a few DVD's. The next morning, I noticed on the screen there was a slight discoloration on the screen. The area was just to the right of the center, and was about 2" wide by 5" tall. It kind of looked like when you put your finger on your LCD display of your laptop, but it didn't go away.

When I watched TV in a darker room you didn't see it in the picture being displayed. But if you watched something during the day with more light around, you could see slight discoloration from that area.

Well CC switched out the TV yesterday, and I looked at the screen before the guys left. I thought I saw something in almost the same spot as the first set, but there was a lot of glare coming off the screen because it was in the middle of the afternoon. I looked again this morning, and it is definitely there. Now it's not a huge deal because it is so minor, and we watch 80% of our stuff at night with almost all the lights off. Under those conditions, you can't see any issues with the PQ.

Don't get me wrong, the TV is great, and the PQ is really awesome. After watching a few of my favorite parts from a few movies, it is just awesome. But I just paid a lot of money for this TV, and it should be perfect.

Anyone have this issue, or is it just part of the TV that I should just expect?

perfection is priceless and unacheivable. unless God makes it :)
even six sigma quality theory clearly shows that... there is and always will be variation in everything, unless divine intervention takes place.

(im on my knees, praying my TV will show signs of the holy spirit)

Originally posted by sawyer1370

is it just part of the TV that I should just expect?

Does it show up in a picture? If so, please post it - I'm curious what it looks like....

I'll take some pics today when I get home to see if I can get the pics to illustrate what I'm talking about.

I tried changing power sources again. This time, I have the TV plugged in through Monster and all other electronic components connected through another cheap brand surge protector. The picture seems to be better now. There is still some snowy effect on some channels in light backgrounds, but I feel its the programming and not the TV. HBO seems to be noticeably better.

With this improvement. I decided to cancel my Comcast appt for now as I seriously doubted whether they would be able to help at all.

There is nothing as perfect with a production unit of such.:( Some people get very lucky and have no defects or cannot see them. Some people don't care at all and others look for everything with a magnifying glass.

Just about every piece of equipment I have bought has had some type of defect or quirk that makes you think. My new 55WF655 was delivered 3 weeks ago and now I just started to notice some things that are not right.
1. I have 2 green stuck pixels and 1 blue one. Cannot see from viewing distance.
2. There seems to be a very faint red spot the size of a quarter in the lower right of the screen. Only seen with a very dark scene, you really have to look closely. Also a matching blue on at the top center of the screen. You can only see them when the tv is on even with out a picture displayed. But they are not visible from viewing distance which is 7-8 feet.

Now, does this make me want to return the set? No way. You can begin a cycle of the return game in hopes of a perfect set. You can also get lucky. I guess thats why I bought the 5 year warranty with it. Down the road a year or 2, you can have it looked at or fixed. If they can't fix it, oh well, RA the unit and will pick out a newer model.

What ever makes the person happy then do it. My set is very nice and the imperfections won't get in my way. Just sit back and enjoy. Start watching TV and not watch the set itself.:) This is not being upset, or mad, just another way to look at things.

Originally posted by mlodgek
interesting.... I noticed this this problem right away (swimming pixels in bright scenes), and I have always assumed that is SSE. The more I watch it the more I am convinced the problem is very dependant on the source. There are plenty of bright scenes on certain sources where it looks perfect to me. I can see it on almost all DVDs and SD, but there's plenty of HD material in which I don't see it at all.... or maybe I'm just really used to it now.

Sounds reasonable. "Swimming pixels" is usually a sign of time smear or transient smear and can be aggravated by busy or detailed textures for open scenes. That could be considered SSE. If there is concurrent luminance banding it is more likely quantization noise error (not usually a part of SSE). If it appears more prevalently around edges it is due to quantization issues also (it is harder to encode transients like sharp edges) and that is usually referred to as mosquito noise. That is not SSE per se, but can contibute to or aggravate it.

Bottom line, we don't like any of it. There are a lot of artifacts in digital television, I'm afraid, and these are just some of them. I expect the situation to improve as the skill levels of the vendors and the equipment sophistication improves.

Would it be worth an ISF calibration on these sets(60wf655)?
What can one expect of a good ISF calibrator? I assume he wouldnt just come adjust my TV using Avia?? I would love to go into the service menu but I am very nervous to do so. What was your first trip into the service menu like???

bluer101, thanks for the input. The issue I have isn't a big one at all, and my wife didn't even notice it at all. Even after I pointed it out, she still really didn't see it. I don't want to get into the cycle of returning set after set, because then you will get to the point that the people who provide you your warranty will begin to get leary about helping you.

I have the 2 year warranty, and will buy another 2 years towards the end of the first 2 years. I was very clear in making sure I could do that, which I can. I kind of like the idea about letting subtle issues that don't really have any impact in PQ or viewing sit, and then make them an issue in a year or two, and possibly get a new set.

Until then, I'll be enjoying my new HDTV. I will have the HD set up by the end of the week once my cables arrive. I can't wait to watch some of our favorite shows in HD. DVD's look great, and it is awesome to watch them. I really get the whole theater experience in my living room now!

Hi! I asked this in another thread and no one seemed to know the answer so I'll ask again here. This may be a stupid question, but I'm now wondering about the logistics of installing a rotor outdoor antenna for my Sony 55XS955. I've bought the antenna and all the equipment, but it will probably be a couple of weekends before I have the time to get up on the roof to install it.

Here's my logistics question: Is it possible to scan someway that will allow for all the possible channels in any direction? Currently, with my little indoor Zenith SS antenna, if I change directions and do a rescan, I lose the channels I had before. Even if I re-aim the antenna to its original direction, and try to enter a previously received HD or Digital channel manually, it shows as no signal until I rescan. Of course then I lose all the channels I just locked onto. (I don't expect to keep the signal when I change directions, just the channel numbers so when I return to that position, I can tune in the channel.)

Do I have to rescan for available channels everytime I change antenna directions? I live in Newark, DE and want to receive the OTA HD signals (among others) from Baltimore, MD...Washington, DC...and Philadelphia, PA. Neighbors with conventional TVs are able to receive signals from all these areas.

If I scan with the antenna pointed at Baltimore, won't those channel possibilities disappear when I scan to get the Philly channels in (opposite direction)? Will I only be able to tune in channels that are registered with a particular scan? Does this make any sense at all. Have I misunderstood something about the scan and rescan feature? Thanks for any guidance on this.

Originally posted by BJMoose
Currently, with my little indoor Zenith SS antenna, if I change directions and do a rescan, I lose the channels I had before. Even if I re-aim the antenna to its original direction, and try to enter a previously received HD or Digital channel manually, it shows as no signal until I rescan.

I am not sure why you need to rescan. One thing you should do is store the freq. (25.1 for example) into Favorite Channels. Then you can click back to it anytime. Going one step further, you can delete and add the channel you want to save under the regular user menu options.

But anytime you do have one scanned in, you should no be losing it just because you moved the antenna, or even disconnect it. I only have the channels I want when I use the channel selector on the remote. If the antenna is not aligned, it just says No Signal. I go over and tweak, voila! the picture appears.

I have had a simllar problem as yours with my Dish 811 receiver which has a more cumbersome method of scanning and saving than the Sony.

Do these models have a smart video input (similar to JVC) allowing connections to be made to an AV receiver with Component Video, S-Video and plain video all connected at the same time on the same input while automatically detecting which one is active? This may be useful if I ever run out of inputs.

Originally posted by PorcupineCuddler
Do these models have a smart video input (similar to JVC) allowing connections to be made to an AV receiver with Component Video, S-Video and plain video all connected at the same time on the same input while automatically detecting which one is active?

Not that I know of, but there's good switchers that do that same thing and aren't too expensive.

Originally posted by TomCat

Bottom line, we don't like any of it. There are a lot of artifacts in digital television, I'm afraid, and these are just some of them. I expect the situation to improve as the skill levels of the vendors and the equipment sophistication improves.

Just to clarify, I see the effect we've been discussing (sparkly clear sand effect on bright areas) on ANY source including analog NTSC and including the TV menu with the color set to gray. I do also see the digital TV artifacts you've been describing, varies depending on source of course.

I don't see the effect I describe on a friend's $5000+ Pioneer plasma hooked to the same local Comcast feed. I still would buy the Sony and save thousands though :)

You're right, we don't like any of it. But I'm happy with the GWIV.

Things are much better than they were 2 years ago, they will be even better 2 years from now. You jump on the train when it's most convenient for you. There will always be a faster one down the line.

Originally posted by PorcupineCuddler
Do these models have a smart video input (similar to JVC) allowing connections to be made to an AV receiver with Component Video, S-Video and plain video all connected at the same time on the same input while automatically detecting which one is active? This may be useful if I ever run out of inputs.

yes, it will automatically switch down to an active Composite signal if the S-Vid isn't active. it only does this if both are on the same input. Component ins are different inputs, so no automagic down switching is possible.

Originally posted by videoaddikt
Things are much better than they were 2 years ago, they will be even better 2 years from now. You jump on the train when it's most convenient for you. There will always be a faster one down the line.

Good advice and very true.

The thing is, for most people who don't have money to burn, there are better times than others to jump. The problem is figuring when that window of opportunity is. Later is usually more cost effective, but sooner is much more tempting...

drill/daverJ, great points. I hoped on last week with the 55WF655. Given the price drop and sale prices and willingness to move the set, I got the set for $250 less than the current sale prices at CC currently.

I know there is a long thread speculating (mostly) on the new models due out in a couple months. For the few additional features (better black levels being the only I was concerned with) the price was too attractive to pass up. I'm more than happy with the set, and I don't think I'll miss the new features people are talking about the new sets having giving my viewing conditions and usage.

I just picked up the 60WF655 at Abt Electornics. As I was reading this or one of the other 'owner' threads building up to the purchase I remember reading about connecting the raw cable feed to the back of the TV and doing a scan and getting a whole bunch of channels, even thoughs of other customers viewing 'on demand' movies.

I've got TWC and when I plug the raw cable in and scan all it seems to find is the 100 analog channels. Nothing above 99 (all the digital channels) much less other peoples on demand. I keyed in some channels normally available above 99 and it just said 'no signal'.

Shouldn't this tv be able to tune them in directly without going through the cable box? Yes, I know I'd need a cable card for premium channels, that's not what I'm talking about.

I also hooked up an outdoor antennea and the scan did find both analog and a few HD from over the air.

Any thoughts or suggestions appreaciated.

Zoot.

zoot, you will need a cablecard to pick up digital channels. I know with Charter you can rent one for only a couple bucks a month. I use a Moxi though.

Originally posted by drwtsn32
zoot, you will need a cablecard to pick up digital channels. I know with Charter you can rent one for only a couple bucks a month. I use a Moxi though.

This is not necessarily true. I have a 55WF and Brighthouse Cable (standard cable, no box or card) and can get the local digital channels. UPI, NBC and CBS (480i and 1080i HD)...along with three PBS channels ( 2 in 480i and one in HD 1080i 16-9). I, also, get all of the digital music channels. It may depend on the local station or cable provider, I'm not sure. I do know that FCC requires cable to broadcast local digital channels at no charge. Not real sure of the language on that though.

buggy, yeah I can pick up a couple digital channels and the music channels as well without a cable card, but nowhere near the entire digital lineup.

agreed, to get the digital "packages" you will need a card or box.

I have noticed that when viewing CSI, and other major primetime programs in HD the sound is still in stereo, not 5.1.
I use OTA for my locals and they come in great visually. And all the Dish HD material comes blasting through in DD.
Is it a problem with some local TV stations, or is the optical ouput in my WF55 not functioning correctly?

Originally posted by videoaddikt
I have noticed that when viewing CSI, and other major primetime programs in HD the sound is still in stereo, not 5.1.


Unfortunately, this is up to the equipment at your local affiliate. Here in Knoxville TN, the ABC and Fox affiliates have the Dolby Digital equipment and CBS, NBC and PBS do not. This is surprising because our NBC station is the area's "big" station.

Check the programming forums here on AVS, they may have a thread dedicated to your area and ask which channels broadcast Dolby Digital. Sometimes the station engineers will check these threads to see what people are posting. If you show interest, or call the stations and ask to speak to the chief engineer, you might be surprised that they will push for the equipment if they know people care.

Well I have had my 55WF655 for two weeks now. Man I'm loving it. I have watched a bunch of movies, and the picture is great. I can't wait until the in-wall entertainment center is finished, so I can hook up my HD DVR and start checking out what I have been missing!

Even my wife (who went along with the purchase) is more than happy, and it really does make it a true 'movie night' now!

Originally posted by DaverJ
Unfortunately, this is up to the equipment at your local affiliate. Here in Knoxville TN, the ABC and Fox affiliates have the Dolby Digital equipment and CBS, NBC and PBS do not. This is surprising because our NBC station is the area's "big" station.

Check the programming forums here on AVS, they may have a thread dedicated to your area and ask which channels broadcast Dolby Digital. Sometimes the station engineers will check these threads to see what people are posting. If you show interest, or call the stations and ask to speak to the chief engineer, you might be surprised that they will push for the equipment if they know people care.

Thanks, DaverJ... it's about what I thought. I had remembered receiving some in 5.1, like American Idol and some sports on Fox.
My pre/pro was accurate.. On most OTA HD locals, while in the Dolby Digital mode, it displays 2/0.0 instead of 3/2.1.

Fan Noise

I have had my KDF-WF655 since fall of 2004, and the fan noise is starting to really get to me.

It is much louder after it has been on for a couple of hours, and the noise is (of course) more noticeable when the household is quiet and the volume is low -- like when I'm watching Letterman and don't want to disturb anyone in the house. It's not a problem when we're watching a DVD with the nice loud surround sound coming out of the amplifier.

I cannot sense anything loose or rattling in the TV, and there are no other fans in my setup - the noise is very easily heard as coming from the left-rear of the set.

Has anyone found a solution??

Originally posted by zoothorn
I remember reading about connecting the raw cable feed to the back of the TV and doing a scan and getting a whole bunch of channels, even thoughs of other customers viewing 'on demand' movies.


Hi Zoot,

I have a 55XS955 and I plugged my "raw cable feed" into the back of the TV and received over 300 digital channels when I scanned for digital channels. With that said, the majority are scrambled (hidden) and you won't be able to watch them. I do get the local HD signals that the cable provider has. Fox, WB, NBC, ABC and PBS. I don't get CBS. I also pick up "On Demand" movies and digital music channels. You may have your cable connected into the wrong tuner. Try plugging it into the other one and rescanning. In order to watch my digital channels like G4TV and ESPN News..etc, I have the the cable split and the cable box ran into the regular tuner. Enables me to watch different channels in Twin View too. I'm thinking about getting the DVR box because it includes the HD package (want ESPN HD). I think I should be able to get both Twin View boxes to display HD with the HD box, hopefully.

CJ

Rmullin: I'm with you. I purchased the same TV last week and I'm returning it this weekend because of fan noise. It is distracting.

Originally posted by rmullin
Fan Noise


Has anyone found a solution??

Not really but I have noticed that fan noise is sensitive to set placement.

Most of the fan noise comes from the back of the set and has to bounce off the back wall to get to your ears. Sometimes moving the set around will help considerably with the noise. If not, you might be able to add some sound deadening material to the wall behind your set.


Do you have enough air space around the set? Sony recommends a minimum of 4 inches. If the set isn't getting enough ventilation, it may be running the fan at a very high speed to cool the lamp.

Fan Noise

The set is about 12" away from a bare wall. I suppose we could hang a quilt or something on the wall to absorb the sound, but that would look kind of odd. There really isn't any other location that works for the TV in that room, so maybe the wall-hanging idea is the way to go -- if Mrs. rmullin agrees.

I was hoping there was some other fan available that would be inherently quieter, or some other "adjustment" that could be made to the set. Looks like I'm the one that needs to be adjusted.

How is the room temperature? A cooler room will cool the set better and fan doesn't need to run as fast.

The room is well ventilated and nicely air-conditioned in the warmer months. I have not noticed any difference in the noise levels from late winter to now.

Perhaps noise-reduction headphones should be ordered for the household.

Fan Noise

Go to the Setup menu and check the setting for High Altitude. Setting High Altitude on will make the fan run at a higher speed. You only need this on if you are above 5000 ft.

Haven't been that high in years...

The 'High Altitude' setting is off - already played with that and discovered it just made things louder.

Thanks

Fan noise seems to be one fairly common issue with RPTV's. I am surprised there is not more discussion on it on this and other forums. Had a Panasonic DLP for a few weeks before moving to the Sony. As much as I am not happy with a reading of 59 decibels at the back of the Sony it is much better then the 85 decibels at the back of the Panasonic.

It might be interesting to do a survey of taking sound readings on different owners sets to see what the norm is.

There seems to be different levels of sensitivity to fan noise. My wife is not bothered by it at all and questions why I make such a big deal about it.

I will be calling Sony to have a service call arranged . I doubt they will find any issues that will reduce the sound of the fan to a reasonable level. The next step will most likely be designing a enclosure with sound dampening material.

Turned on the 50we655 today and it has a big yellow print on the right side of the scree. It looks like a print board from the matrix. will not go away sony has no service techs near enough to come to our mountain home so I'm still waiting for a call. Anyone else have this problem.

bill

Turned on the 50we655 today and it has a big yellow print on the right side of the scree. It looks like a print board from the matrix. will not go away sony has no service techs near enough to come to our mountain home so I'm still waiting for a call. Anyone else have this problem.

bill

Originally posted by SunPowered
Damn! Wish I wasn't so picky - but I am. I guess it's from aligning precision electronic equipment for 32 years.

Another set (#3) was delivered this morning (Sears gets an A for service). The delivery men moved it from the truck on a dolly with the carton standing on its end!

The room is light, but I see a couple of blue pixels. This is better than the 2nd set. The fan is a little louder. What bothers me are cosmetic issues. Why is 36" of the horizontal panel below the screen (with the Sony emblem) rough? It's as if it has been repainted. Why is the power button scratched and its chrome finish worn through on the edges? Why are there finger prints all over the case?

These things would not occur from shipping, the carton doesn't touch the power button. It's reminds me of a display model, however I don't think even a display unit on-off button would show that much wear. Could it be refurbished? The build date is March 2005. I'm puzzled. For this kind of money I want it to be right.

I talked to Sears and yes, they will send out another TV. Maybe I should start looking at other sets.

Update: The 4th set was delivered on April 12. It has a few flaws, but I decided to stop being so picky and just enjoy the show. All was going well until two weeks ago. I turned the set on and the Power/Standby light flashed many times then the Lamp LED came on. I cycled the Power again and the set powered-up. A week later the Lamp LED is flashing continuously and, of course, no picture. I called Sears and a tech is coming out on 5/24.

At least you live close enough to a tech, It looks like I might have to take the tv in since I can not get a tech to the house and no return calls from sony

I started getting an error code (161-6) from my 2nd cablecard on my wf55 for a couple of days. I called Comcast and was advised that it was an error in the cablecard box in my set. I also get dropout occasionally and must reset the cablecard to continue receiving certain HD channels. Can anyone verify the Comcast claim?

2nd question:

at the diagnostic screen, what are some good s/n values and what are good feed numbers?

Thanks all!

Originally posted by SunPowered
Update: The 4th set was delivered on April 12. It has a few flaws, but I decided to stop being so picky and just enjoy the show. All was going well until two weeks ago. I turned the set on and the Power/Standby light flashed many times then the Lamp LED came on. I cycled the Power again and the set powered-up. A week later the Lamp LED is flashing continuously and, of course, no picture. I called Sears and a tech is coming out on 5/24.

You have a right to be picky. Those are not flaws to be expected. There is a lamp module fix, but I thought that was a complaint on earlier displays.
Not to say newer modules can not be defective.

scannerman,

The 161 error with cablecard is a known issue. Contact Sony Support.

Update: The 4th set was delivered on April 12. It has a few flaws, but I decided to stop being so picky and just enjoy the show. All was going well until two weeks ago. I turned the set on and the Power/Standby light flashed many times then the Lamp LED came on. I cycled the Power again and the set powered-up. A week later the Lamp LED is flashing continuously and, of course, no picture. I called Sears and a tech is coming out on 5/24.

A Sears tech and his trainee came out this morning and replaced the lamp. The set was delivered on 4/12, so it blew in 5 weeks. Hope this one does better!

While they were here I mentioned a couple of black specks on the screen. They agreed that they were on either the lens or mirror. I do believe this was the 1st KDF50WE655 that they disassembled. They were conscientious, but it took a while to get inside. After cleaning the lens and mirror, they put it back together. It was worse than before. Streaks on the mirror were now visible on the screen and numerous dust specks could be seen. Once again they took it apart and this time they let me do the cleaning. After reassembly there were still a couple of dust specks on the mirrror so I stuck my arm in between the two halves of the case and swiped them off. Moral of the story: live with a couple of specks - it's not worth the trouble!

Hi Sun, I just bought the same set, gets delivered tomorrow. I guess I should have read this thread first. Looked great in the store but now I'm horrified at what I will find when the set gets turned on for the first time?? I guess I'm glad I bought the extended warranty.

I wonder if maybe your sears store got a bad batch?? I wonder if the ser#'s are close?? Oh well, I hope you get everything straightened out to your satisfaction. Good luck.

Steve

Hi Sun, I just bought the same set, gets delivered tomorrow. I guess I should have read this thread first. Looked great in the store but now I'm horrified at what I will find when the set gets turned on for the first time?? I guess I'm glad I bought the extended warranty.

I wonder if maybe your sears store got a bad batch?? I wonder if the ser#'s are close?? Oh well, I hope you get everything straightened out to your satisfaction. Good luck.

Steve
As the moderator of 2 different A/V forums, I can assure you that by their very nature, these forums exhibit a disproportionate percentage of reports regarding bad experiences with equipment. Forums like this, besides being an excellent place to pick up some useful knowledge, are also great places to make your grievances known too. The vast majority of product users are perfectly happy with their purchase and choose never to take part in these forums.

I will say this, if there are an inordinate number of complaints about any product in a forum, one should really weigh that in their decision also. JMHO!

Hi BJ, I kind of understand what your saying. I mean, if I'm having problems, I'm probably looking for solutions by posting on forums like this. If I'm not having problems I'm probably just reading posts...I'm confident I'll have a trouble free experience with my new set, but it's nice to know what to look for and what the fixes are should problems arise...

I can't wait to get my new toy, I've had a 27" for the last 10 years...WOOHOO!!!

Steve

Hey gang, I get me bloody kdf-50we655 tomorrow and Im psyched...I was hoping someone could answer a question for me regarding hooking up my tv to my av rcvr. I know I'm supposed to run the optical cable from the tv to the rcvr, my question is will the optical output on the tv also transmit analog (non-hidef) signals to my rcvr? My salesman says it would but I recall reading something about it not? If not, should I also connect rca's from the output on the back of the tv to the input of the rcvr? Thanks in advance..

Steve

Hey gang, I get me bloody kdf-50we655 tomorrow and Im psyched...I was hoping someone could answer a question for me regarding hooking up my tv to my av rcvr. I know I'm supposed to run the optical cable from the tv to the rcvr, my question is will the optical output on the tv also transmit analog (non-hidef) signals to my rcvr? My salesman says it would but I recall reading something about it not?

Your salesman was wrong. The optical output is digital only... not necessarily "HD", but any programming on a digital station. So yes, you will need analog cables too and your receiver will need to switch between the two.

NOTE: If you are lucky enough to live in an area that has all networks broadcasting digitally... then the optical cable is all you need.

Hi Dave, I thought so, thanks a lot for the reply. Hopefull my yamaha rcvr will do this..Thanks again.

Steve

Hey you crazy kids, you. Got me bloody kdf-50we655, I have to say I'm very impressed. Im a newbie, not even sure if it's a GWIV LOL.. Hopefully I'm posting in the right area.

After reading the posts here I kind of learned what to look for as far as problems. The fan is inaudible. I have to put my ear near the back of the set to even tell its there. It's definitely off on geometry (I think its geometry). I'd say the upper right side is about 1/4" lower than the left side. We just watched The Incredibles and we did the THX test and there is a part where it shows a circle surrounded by a square and its not centered on the screen..seems like its a little too far to the left. It actually cuts off a little of the lower left bottom of the square. It's not way off but it's off. Not critical to me but I know it's not perfect.

Anyway, I had a chance to take a couple of pictures, if anyone is interested. I don't have digital cable, just basic. We get the locals and some other channels in hd. The local Fox affiliate has about the best hd reception we get. I snapped these pictures while watching the news. All I did was change the picture mode to normal, didn't touch any other settings. It's pretty much out of the box in these pics. I still can't get over how nice the picture is. Although, our last tv (for the last 13 years) was a cheap 27" magnavox, so I don't have much to compare it to. Anyway, here's the link to the pics:

http://www.pbase.com/desmoface/sony_kdf-50we655

Just wanted to thank everyone that's posted here, I considered just about every make and techology out there and with the help of this board, chose the Sony. So far I'm totally satisfied. Thanks again to the members of this board.

Steve

Looks great, I wish we had true HD news in South Florida. There should be some adjustments for the tv for the picture to left or right. I think its game picture adjustment.

Hi Bluer, I'm gonna break out the manual and check it out. Thanks again.

Steve

Ok, thanks Bluer, that did the trick. I'll probably never notice the difference but at least I know its centered. Thanks again.

Steve

After reading the posts here I kind of learned what to look for as far as problems.


That is the downside to these forums. You can learn a lot about your TV here, and how to take advantage of its capabilities, but if you are obsessive or a nit-picker what you learn may drive you insane.

Hi Ehlarson, I agree - although my wife might argue that I'm already insane LOL. We sat down to watch "The Incredibles" and I pointed out to my wife that the picture was a little too far to the left, she's like, "so what, it's off by so little, if you didnt do that test you would have never even known it". And of course she's right. I figure from what I've read on this board, no set is 100% perfect. And admittedly I'm happy with what we got. You just can't help but think, for the cost of these sets, they should really be damn near perfect.

I can't complain though, I'm satisfied with the set.

Steve

That is the downside to these forums. You can learn a lot about your TV here, and how to take advantage of its capabilities, but if you are obsessive or a nit-picker what you learn may drive you insane.

I am a newb hear myself (several months of research and reading) and I couldnt agree more. My new 60wf655 is great in every way. The other night I was watching PBS and there was something on the camera they used to shoot the program with. I was sure I had a large group of bad pixels.LOL Oh well the nitpicking is kind of fun in a way. It makes me stick around the forums after my purchase. :D
While I am posting quick question.....I remember reading somewhere about the scrolling through inputs thing...it is really the only problem I have had with the TV. Is it possible to change the way that works or does a good Universal remote change it?? I use most of my inputs so I dont want to disable any of them but scrolling through all of them to bounce back and forth between DVD and Cable is driving me nuts!

I am a newb hear myself (several months of research and reading) and I couldnt agree more. My new 60wf655 is great in every way. The other night I was watching PBS and there was something on the camera they used to shoot the program with. I was sure I had a large group of bad pixels.LOL Oh well the nitpicking is kind of fun in a way. It makes me stick around the forums after my purchase. :D
While I am posting quick question.....I remember reading somewhere about the scrolling through inputs thing...it is really the only problem I have had with the TV. Is it possible to change the way that works or does a good Universal remote change it?? I use most of my inputs so I dont want to disable any of them but scrolling through all of them to bounce back and forth between DVD and Cable is driving me nuts!

You can get descrete codes for most of the inputs with a good universal remote. I use a Home Theater Master MX-700 and found codes that work for 1 through 6 several months ago. It may be that 7 and 8 have been found since the last time I looked.

I finally got my first HDTV and bought KF50WE620 (Got a great deal, too. 2490 $Cdn. , from Future Shop, stand inc. I made them price match a CompuSmart ad)
I have been silently watching these forums for a while. I think this is a great forum.
I have a few questions, I am new at this, please go easy on me.
First of all, does anybody know what is the native resolution of this TV? (788p?) My understanding is, it is best to set the HDTV terminal/DVD to produce as close to native as possible to get the best picture. Or is this not true, I need to try different resolutions?
Also as far as cables and surge suppressors are concerned, I am thinking getting cables from Blue Jeans Cable and to get PureAV Isolator Power Surge Protector (F9A833-10). What are people's opinions on this? My opinions is, that I do not wanna spend an arm and a leg on these things?

Ok, thanks Bluer, that did the trick. I'll probably never notice the difference but at least I know its centered. Thanks again.

Steve

Your welcome. :)

You can go crazy looking for all the defects the TV has. Do what I learned to do, sit back and watch the thing. Thats what it is for. :D Its a great TV.

... does anybody know what is the native resolution of this TV? (788p?) My understanding is, it is best to set the HDTV terminal/DVD to produce as close to native as possible to get the best picture. Or is this not true, I need to try different resolutions?...


While there is literature (even from Sony) that states 788, that is a typo. The native rez is 768. The rescaling of other formats to 768 in the GWIV's is so completely transparent that it in no way degrades the picture, so no matter what source resolution you send into this set, the output should be dazzlingly impressive in any case.

If you have a STB or HD PVR that will not do "native passthrough" such as the Tivo HR10-250, and you must "pick" an output rez (and 768 is rarely available in such a case) it usually makes sense to use the output rez of the STB that is the same as the native rez of the set, but in practice this set rescales so well that it will not matter.

But you hit the nail on the head...try them all, use what works best.

I just brought the KDF-42WE655 from BB. Kinda of an impulse buy as I was going in there to buy the 34" Widescreen CRT instead but got a good deal that I could not say no to.

Anyways, I play games frequently, mostly GT4 on PS2. Is there any burn-in worries regarding rear projection LCDs?

Is there any burn-in worries regarding rear projection LCDs?

Absolutly none. :)

Happy gaming!

Looking for someone with a Sony Grand Wega that has the Charter Moxi Box. Just received the long awaited software update 3.2 that was suppose to fix several issues. My Charter HD box will still not accept 1080i in the setup only 720p. Doesn't the Grand Wega LCD support 1080i?

Looking for someone with a Sony Grand Wega that has the Charter Moxi Box. Just received the long awaited software update 3.2 that was suppose to fix several issues. My Charter HD box will still not accept 1080i in the setup only 720p. Doesn't the Grand Wega LCD support 1080i?

My Sony 55WF655 accepts 1080i from my Comcast HD box through DVI to HDMI convertion with no problems. Thats for HD channels. The I have the Comcast box to out put 480i with 4.3 SD channels through the same DVI to HDMI cable.

My Sony 55WF655 accepts 1080i from my Comcast HD box through DVI to HDMI convertion with no problems. Thats for HD channels. The I have the Comcast box to out put 480i with 4.3 SD channels through the same DVI to HDMI cable.

Well when Charter put in the 3.2 my DVI still isn't turned on. Will it only get 1080i through DVI?

I have been researching RP HDTV for months and was sucked into the macho, cutting edge technology belief in DLP, it's almost cultish waiting for that next xHD4-Tz/gonzo chip with 25000:1 contrast ratios and black levels so good you can't see anything. After reading hundreds and hundreds of user review throughout the web I came to the realization that I was chasing a "rainbow" (no pun intended) with no pot of gold at the end. I wanted so bad to love that DLP. The user reviews finally brought me back to reality. Most DLP reviews (especially Samsung which was my focus) discuss problems (many of them big problems) and ways to work around / solve them. I then looked at hundreds of Sony LCD RP user reviews. What a difference. They are joyous revlations of happiness and satisfaction , sure some problems but fewer and less major ones. In Samsung DLP reviews a 4 to 1 ratio of problems to good things, Sony just the opposite 1 to4. Sorry to ramble on but I'm on step 5 of the DLP 12 step program. My question is this. The KDF-55we655 looks great to me but is a little too big for my needs and don't need ATSC/Cable card. I have seen the KF-50we620 (I think it was a model for the Canadian market) at Sams and Costco and know they don't have Atsc/CC or HDMI (do have DVI). I can't find much about the internal electronics that would impact PQ. Would this set give me as good a PQ in both HD and SD (analog and digital) as the 655 and would not having HDMI be a problem. My other concern is maybe this is the older WE610 model rebranded instead of a WE655 with less options? Any thoughts or comments would be appreciated. This forum has been an awsome resource for research. Thanks

Well when Charter put in the 3.2 my DVI still isn't turned on. Will it only get 1080i through DVI?

I get through DVI what ever you set the cable box output. I have 1080i for HD and 4.3 default as 480i.

Hey you crazy kids, you. Got me bloody kdf-50we655, I have to say I'm very impressed. Steve


Steve,

Glad to see you like this one - I'm considering buying it as well but I do know the 2005 models are coming out soon.

Are there any major advantages to waiting for the 05 (whatever serial # that is) versus the WE655 series?

My setup will be Charter HD cable and I'm going to try an OTA antenna to see if I can a decent signal (may not be able to). I was looking at the Toshiba 52HM94 DLP but the 50WE655 was next to it and I really liked what I saw.

A couple questions...It will be in my basement in the non-windowed portion (long rectangle - windows on south end, tv on north end facing east). Is this well suited for an LCD or DLP? It doesn't get really bright but there can be some glare. Typically would have some overhead lighting on a dimmer and a fireplace for ambient light.

Also, it appears a service plan is destiny for these sets. Any popular opinion on Best Buy or Sears as far as their service goes?

I'm almost there....been looking and researching for awhile. This forum has been great.

...Are there any major advantages to waiting for the 05 (whatever serial # that is) versus the WE655 series?...

Sony does have an interesting new technique that will dynamically modulate the light coming from the lamp, apparently some kind of shutter or iris situation. If it works as advertised, it could help to ameliorate the biggest flaw of RP sets, in that the light leak inside the cabinet creates a higher absolute black than is seen on CRTs and plasmas and direct LCDs. The only time this higher absolute black is really that annoying is on really dark scenes, and those are supposedly the exact situations where this mechanism would be put in play, so that might be a significant improvement.

I have been researching RP HDTV for months and was sucked into the macho, cutting edge technology belief in DLP, it's almost cultish waiting for that next xHD4-Tz/gonzo chip with 25000:1 contrast ratios and black levels so good you can't see anything. After reading hundreds and hundreds of user review throughout the web I came to the realization that I was chasing a "rainbow" (no pun intended) with no pot of gold at the end.
I've got to admit, I had a Panasonic 50" DLP and once calibrated with Avia and DVE, the picture was the best I've seen on any non-Plasma set. Unfortunately, I saw the rainbows and the more I watch the more I saw. I researched a ton of LCDs and felt the 55XS955 was the best of the bunch for me. But the PQ still doesn't match the Panasonic in my humble estimation. That being said, I'm very pleased with the Sony. HD is outstanding and I will say that the PQ on SD is better than the Panny. Besides Comcast HD, I have an outdoor HD antenna and get great HD reception from Baltimore, Philly, and some areas in N.J. The built in ATSC tuner is superb.

Hi Sully, unfortunately I don't know a whole lot about the changes newer sets will have. I'm a relative newbie and the sony is my first foray into hd. I was very close to buying a dlp as I like the picture quality they provided. I actually told the salesman I wanted a mits, but upon closer inspection realized it didn't have a built in tuner and no hdmi. To get the same connectivity as the sony on the mits dlp, was substantially more than the sony.

I liked the detail that the mits resolved but it was a very dark picture compared to the sony, the sony had a brighter picture, which I liked. So the picture quality was close enough between the mits and the sony that it all came down to connectivity for me..the sony won out here so that was the clincher.

Also, on hd stuff I had to look very closely to see any difference between the pq of the sony and the mits (albeit with my untrained eye). The mits dlp did resolve a little more detail but I also noticed that in dark scenes, the already dark picture on the mits resulted in some detail disapearing whereas it was visible on the sony. On hd stuff they looked remarkably similar...both very good.

So, in the end it was really close as far as picture quality. A majority of people that were also in the store comparing the sets liked the higher detail of the mits over the sony, and I did see that. But I also came home with the Sony, so as you can imagine I was quite pleased with it.

I was also very close to buying the Toshiba as I thought it also had a very nice picture. I don't think you could go wrong with any of the sets mentioned here. I actually preferred the toshiba pq over the mits by a slight margin but the mits was supposed to be better once it was calibrated, not that thats ever going to happen with my set LOL...

As far as lighting, the sony has a relatively bright picture compared to most of the dlp sets I looked at, except maybe the jvc dila which were also very bright. I would say that the sony would accel in a hi light situation. I actually have to turn it down to "pro" setting (the lowest) at night because it's too bright.

As far as the extended warranty, I purchased one. Every set I've considered and researched on this board has had it's share of problems. The sony's are no exception. I figured if I'm spending this much $, a couple few hundred dollars more isn't going to hurt much.

Another thing, once you get it home and you dont have other sets next to it, you will be very happy...all you'll see is an outstanding picture as I do.....I wish I could be of more help, good luck..

Steve

Steve,

Glad to see you like this one - I'm considering buying it as well but I do know the 2005 models are coming out soon.

Are there any major advantages to waiting for the 05 (whatever serial # that is) versus the WE655 series?

My setup will be Charter HD cable and I'm going to try an OTA antenna to see if I can a decent signal (may not be able to). I was looking at the Toshiba 52HM94 DLP but the 50WE655 was next to it and I really liked what I saw.

A couple questions...It will be in my basement in the non-windowed portion (long rectangle - windows on south end, tv on north end facing east). Is this well suited for an LCD or DLP? It doesn't get really bright but there can be some glare. Typically would have some overhead lighting on a dimmer and a fireplace for ambient light.

Also, it appears a service plan is destiny for these sets. Any popular opinion on Best Buy or Sears as far as their service goes?

I'm almost there....been looking and researching for awhile. This forum has been great.

Thanks for the reply, Steve. I think at this point I'm going with the Sony. Now I need a bit of carpet and furniture downstairs which could put my purchase out to late June/early July so we'll see if I end up with 2004 or 2005 but you've and the others on this forum have helped make my mind up. Thank you!!!!

I'll let you know how it turns out...

And your reference to having the set at home vs. the showroom is right on target. I've taken sets home thinking the one next to it is "so much better" but in the end, what you have in front of you is kinda what you know.

Hi Sully, we just got done watching oceans 12. We have a cheap older pany dvd player and its got a remarkably good picture. The display said it was 480i which I don't think is that good. I imagine it would be considerably better with a progressive scan dvd player.

Anyway, if you wait another month or so maybe the newer models will be out. I have to guess they will be better then the ones they replace. Although, I thought mine was a newer model LOL.

Oceans 12 is awful by the way...Good luck..

Steve

I've got to admit, I had a Panasonic 50" DLP and once calibrated with Avia and DVE, the picture was the best I've seen on any non-Plasma set. Unfortunately, I saw the rainbows and the more I watch the more I saw. I researched a ton of LCDs and felt the 55XS955 was the best of the bunch for me. But the PQ still doesn't match the Panasonic in my humble estimation. That being said, I'm very pleased with the Sony. HD is outstanding and I will say that the PQ on SD is better than the Panny. Besides Comcast HD, I have an outdoor HD antenna and get great HD reception from Baltimore, Philly, and some areas in N.J. The built in ATSC tuner is superb.
BJMoose- Thanks for your input-I too really liked the Panasonic DLP and it seems to have fewer problems than Smasung. Maybe I'll bring one home and try it then if the problems I fear happen I can switch to the Sony. I'm also changing my mind about the built in tuner. I use a Comcast STB and have heard because of their lousy quality an onboard tuner may give a better quality picture. Makes since- Thanks

Hi Sully, we just got done watching oceans 12. We have a cheap older pany dvd player and its got a remarkably good picture. The display said it was 480i which I don't think is that good. I imagine it would be considerably better with a progressive scan dvd player.

Anyway, if you wait another month or so maybe the newer models will be out. I have to guess they will be better then the ones they replace. Although, I thought mine was a newer model LOL.

Oceans 12 is awful by the way...Good luck..

Steve

I have noticed with my 55WF655, that my older 6 year old JVC DVD player at 480i does a better job for picture quality than newer 480p DVD players.

Hi Sully, we just got done watching oceans 12. We have a cheap older pany dvd player and its got a remarkably good picture. The display said it was 480i which I don't think is that good. I imagine it would be considerably better with a progressive scan dvd player.

Anyway, if you wait another month or so maybe the newer models will be out. I have to guess they will be better then the ones they replace. Although, I thought mine was a newer model LOL.

Oceans 12 is awful by the way...Good luck..

Steve


Does it do a good job of displaying SD content? Are you cable or sat?

Does it do a good job of displaying SD content? Are you cable or sat?

It really depends, some good sd stuff is better than bad hd stuff. But it really depends on the quality of the broadcast. My wife likes to watch the travel channel and its not very good at all. Watchable but not good. I like to watch motorcycle racing on speed vision and its not great either.

It's funny because if you use the picture in picture and shrink a bad sd broadcast down, it looks great LOL...as you blow it up it gets worse and worse.

That was a main concern of mine with getting a new hd set. The sd content I had seen was not the greatest and I thought my wife would not be happy. Turns out that she doesen't mind. Unfortunately none of the hd sets do sd "great". Some are better than others. I think the dlp's may do a little better job on sd stuff but I may be wrong. That seemed to be the general consensus of the salesmen that worked in the shop that sold us our set.

But I honestly didn't see a big difference in SD between the sony and the mits dlp. I would definitely go to some local stores and check out sd broadcasts on all the sets you are considering. I did that because most of the stuff we watch is on sd and it had to at the least, be watchable.

Good luck...

Steve

Hi all, I just purchased the KDF-55WF655 from CC. Going to pick it up today. Any tips on this set. I was going to wait for the new models but from what I have read that new IRIS black level thing is only for the 42" and 50". It appears that the 55 inch (which looks the same as my set will not have it).

Any tips would be appreciated.

I have some questions on configuring my set. First, I just set up my HD DVR, and now the closed captioning doesn't seem to work. Any ideas on this.

Next, the bars on the outsides of the picture on 4:3 are gray, how do I change them back to black.

Lastly, the guy at the cable company said there is a setting I can use to reduce the sharpness on the picture when viewing analog and digital shows, and set it independantly, so I can switch from that setting to the regular setting for watching dvd's and HD shows. How do I do that?

Any feedback would be great, thanks!

I have some questions on configuring my set. First, I just set up my HD DVR, and now the closed captioning doesn't seem to work. Any ideas on this.

Next, the bars on the outsides of the picture on 4:3 are gray, how do I change them back to black.

Lastly, the guy at the cable company said there is a setting I can use to reduce the sharpness on the picture when viewing analog and digital shows, and set it independantly, so I can switch from that setting to the regular setting for watching dvd's and HD shows. How do I do that?

Any feedback would be great, thanks!

CC and the side bars are set up in the DVR. And assuming you have your DVD on a separate input from your DVR, set your DVD to output "interlaced" and go into the TV's video menu and adjust the DRC function to your taste. It's hard to explain what is happening with DRC - it adjusts the amount of smoothness and de-interlacing for 480i inputs. This feature can inprove Standard Def singles quite a bit.

Is it possible to hook up my mac to this set. I have DVI out on the mac.

Dave,

I thought I read somewhere in this LONG thread, about being able to set my settings for the TV independantly. Like I could configure all the settings for the picture and set it to one memorized setting for say the DVD player, then another one for analog TV, and another one for HDTV. How do I do that?

Dave,

I thought I read somewhere in this LONG thread, about being able to set my settings for the TV independantly. Like I could configure all the settings for the picture and set it to one memorized setting for say the DVD player, then another one for analog TV, and another one for HDTV. How do I do that?

All inputs have independent video settings.

So if you have your DVD via input 3, you can make picture changes in that input's menu. If you have your PVR via input 5, then any settings you make for that input are separate from the settings you made for your DVD.

I posted this in a separate thread, but guess it feels more appropriate here, now that I've found it...

Okay, I've been doing some agonizing research for about 3 weeks now, and with my price range being between $1700-2000, I've decided that the 42-inch Sony Grand Wega LCA KDF-42WE655 is the best TV for me.

I'm planning to print out the page from pricegrabber.com that lists all the vendors who sell this set, with their prices, and take it on down to Ultimate Electronics and see if they'll match it, tax included.

If they don't match it, then I'mm buy it online somewhere...there are some decent looking places.

Anyways, I've already ordered the Tivo, a Toshiba DVD player with HDMI upconvert, and I think I'm ready to go. Even got the HD Kit for my Xbox...

Unless anyone talks me out of this one, and shows me some other TV for the same price that is just as good, I'm doing it tonight!

Thanks to this forum for all the help I got in picking this one out...

Mike

Okay, I ordered it online, Ultimate Electronics would have nothing doing...so I got it from ButterflyTVPhoto online...

Nervous about buying it online, but they have a great rating on PriceGrabber, and I think they'll be good.

Tried to upsell me a bunch of crap, only thing I got was the $249 3-year bult replacement.

Figured from everythign I read, that's good money spent.

Mike

Sometimes you will see the rating is not as good as pricegrabber or bizrate leave you to believe. Dr.plasma is a good example. ALso always use a visa card to buy. they will automatically double the manufacturers warranty for free and sell you an extended one cheap too. Ithink you have to use the platinum visa but call and ask

I posted this in a separate thread, but guess it feels more appropriate here, now that I've found it...

Okay, I've been doing some agonizing research for about 3 weeks now, and with my price range being between $1700-2000, I've decided that the 42-inch Sony Grand Wega LCA KDF-42WE655 is the best TV for me.

I'm planning to print out the page from pricegrabber.com that lists all the vendors who sell this set, with their prices, and take it on down to Ultimate Electronics and see if they'll match it, tax included.

If they don't match it, then I'mm buy it online somewhere...there are some decent looking places.

Anyways, I've already ordered the Tivo, a Toshiba DVD player with HDMI upconvert, and I think I'm ready to go. Even got the HD Kit for my Xbox...

Unless anyone talks me out of this one, and shows me some other TV for the same price that is just as good, I'm doing it tonight!

Thanks to this forum for all the help I got in picking this one out...

Mike

Congrats on your purchase. I have the same TV and love it. Please post back once you get that upconvert dvd player hooked up.

Congrats on your purchase. I have the same TV and love it. Please post back once you get that upconvert dvd player hooked up.


Where did you purchase it from?

I got into some online SonyStyle.com chat with a sales guy, and he made it sound like if I don't buy it from Sony directly, I'm not getting a real Sony TV, lol.

I mean, anything out there online is a Sony TV right? He made me paranoid...

I will definitely come back and let you know about my DVD player...going to be a few weeks until I get the TV, but the player comes on Saturday.

Mike

Where did you purchase it from?

I got into some online SonyStyle.com chat with a sales guy, and he made it sound like if I don't buy it from Sony directly, I'm not getting a real Sony TV, lol.

I mean, anything out there online is a Sony TV right? He made me paranoid...

I will definitely come back and let you know about my DVD player...going to be a few weeks until I get the TV, but the player comes on Saturday.

Mike

I got mine a Circuit City. I think they sell it at Best Buy and Sears too.

A Sears tech and his trainee came out this morning and replaced the lamp.

I'm looking seriously at purchasing mine set at Sears. They do charge delivery from their distribution center - I assume you didn't have to pay for each of the subsequent faulty sets?

You can check and ask. I believe all the major outlets are authorized Sony retailers. Mr. 'SonyStyle' probably has some boat payments coming up.... :)

I got mine a Circuit City. I think they sell it at Best Buy and Sears too.


I just bought mine from Butterfly Cameras and TV's...very interesting...

I looked at that resellerratings.com and noticed it didn't have that great a rating...so I wanted to cancel it and go with dbuys.com.

Well, they had charged my card already, and so after a heated discussion with them, the guy says that it will take about 5-7 days (cause of the weekend) for the credit to go through.

In the meantime, I can't order it from the other site, or I'll be out $4k in my checkbook and left with about $100 for the week, lol.

Anyways, he asked why i wanted to cancel, so I was just honest...told him that they said it would take a week to ship out, and tried sooo hard to upsell me things, that I got turned off.

SO he offered to ugprade my shipping to 3-5 days for free, and I figured, what the heck, since they already charged me. They did have a good Pricegrabber rating.

Anyways, that was this morning...he still said it wouldn't ship until next week...well, suddenly, I got a tracking number from FedEx, it shipped today, and is on a TWO-DAY service route...will be here on Tuesday...wow.

Mike

I just bought the 55WF655 from Circuit City for my parents and have a quick question. It arrived today and we are still awaiting the cable card so that we can get HD. When I press Power on the remote, the green light flashes a number of times before the picture appears. Once it appears, it takes about 1 minute for it to be the normal bright, colorful picture. This is our first LCD rear projection set - after many CRTs. Is this normal behavior or is there a problem with this set? Once the normal picture appears, the set appears fine.

Thanks in advance for any feedback.

my KDf 42WE655 doe the same thing i guess it take time for that lamp to get hot.

When I press Power on the remote, the green light flashes a number of times before the picture appears. Once it appears, it takes about 1 minute for it to be the normal bright, colorful picture.

That's normal operation. Enjoy your new set! :)

Entirely normal. If you look in the owner's manual it states it take about a minute to reach full brightness.

Thanks so much...I plugged in all of the connections, auto tuned the channels and left my parents to enjoy the set. I plan to play with the picture - and read the manual fully - when the cable card is installed on Friday. The picture is actually quite good so far - without any adjustments.

I have had my WF655 for close to a month now, and my wife and I have been in awe. Free Digital from TW :) . The LG DVD with HDMI looks and sounds great. DiscoveryHD is like looking out a window! We love it!

Well, we had a panic moment last night, and I was about to call the CC service number. I have attached a picture of the problem. All channels, and all video inputs displayed the exact same thing. The sound worked OK.

Turned the set off, but it didn't fix the problem. My heart sunk, and I was about to make the call when I remembered a post about a "master reset", unplugging the set for a minute (after the fan turns off).


Luckily, this worked, and the problem went away.


Don't know what happened, but I hope it doesn't happen again.


PS: I was channel surfing at the time the problem showed up... if that makes a difference.

I have attached a picture of the problem..


EEK! :eek:

Thanks for taking a pic and posting. Good to know there's an easy solution if any of us see that aweful site....

I have a question about cable cards and the 55WF655. Comcast is coming to install a cable card in my new set on Friday. Am I correct in that the card will allow us to view all HD channels (including any premiums to which we subscribe) together with the analog and digital channels currently offered in the area? The rep wasn't sure about the HD channels, which is the only reason we are getting the card.

From this thread, it appears that there was a cable card problem with this set at one time. Has it been cleared up? I don't know the build date of my set but we just bought it from Circuit City last week. I have the tech bringing an HD box as well, just in case, but we would prefer to use the cable card, if possible.

Thanks in advance for any feedback.

Well I finally finished my entertainment center, which is centered around my 55WF655. Let me know your thoughts.

http://gallery.avsforum.com/showphoto.php/photo/15161/size/big

VERY nice Sawyer. Movie night at your house this weekend! :D

Thanks! Yeah, we watched The Babe in HD last night. We have the Beyond the Sea for tonight. Loving my new TV!

Congrats on your purchase. I have the same TV and love it. Please post back once you get that upconvert dvd player hooked up.


Okay, I have the TV and hooked up the player...Toshiba SD-5980SU....looks amazing....

Love the TV, love the DVD player.

Now Direct TV comes tomorrow to install my HD Tivo and stuff...

Seeing how good a DVD looks, Hi-Def is going to blow me away :)

Mike

looks absolutely fantastic sawyer!!! enjoy that tv brother, as i certainly enjoy my 55XS....

regards,
Carmine

Okay, I have the TV and hooked up the player...Toshiba SD-5980SU....looks amazing....

Love the TV, love the DVD player.

Now Direct TV comes tomorrow to install my HD Tivo and stuff...

Seeing how good a DVD looks, Hi-Def is going to blow me away :)

Mike

Hi Def will make you hate all the other channels

Hi Def will make you hate all the other channels


Yes, that is happening :)

What's also annoying is that I got this thing right in time to be able to watch a few more NBA playoff games, and our ABC affiliate in Phoenix is replacing that tower, so nothing until the end of June.

No HD Lost reruns either, bah...

But I love the TV, and we watch a lot of movies...the Merchant of Venice was one we saw last night with Al Pacino...unbelievable looking.

And Fellowship of the Ring was the first thing we ever watched on it Friday night, and I was dying...

I love my Grand Wega!

Mike

I just got a 42" Grand WEGA!

I like so far!! Whats this about motion blur? Is that the digital artifacts when viewing fast moving scenes?

I had been told that it was from the broadcast? Is it the LCD motion blur?

Anyway, any tips on setting for this TV? So far so good but its only been a couple of days and only about 4 hours of watching....


Thanks!

This set has few if any artifacts, and those you are describing are most certainly due to the content delivery, and not the display itself. All LCDs blur, as do all DLPs. While modern DLPs blur less than modern LCDs, neither has enough blur to be visible. The fact that you can see the artifacts means that the blur is short. If it were not, you would not be able to see them, the logical conclusion being that LCDs mask just a bit more of these artifacts than DLPs, but probably not significantly so. Blur is blur. But blur that is short enough not to see, might as well not exist.

I am the proud owner of a 55WF655. The set has served me well and I enjoy it immensely. I would love to get darker blacks but have not seem to have found any adjustment recommendations to the service menu. If there is an easy way to darken the blacks, please share it with me.

Anyway, my father wants to buy the same set I have and is having some difficulty getting one. Sears, best buy and some others are telling him that the model is no longer being produced. Is there any truth to this?

WLS

I am the proud owner of a 55WF655. The set has served me well and I enjoyed it immensely. I would love to get darker blacks but have not seem to have found any adjustment recommendations to the service menu. If there is an easy way to darken the blacks, please share it with me.

Anyway, my father wants to buy the same set I have and is having some difficulty getting one. Sears, best buy and some others are telling him that the model is no longer being produced. Is there any truth to this?

WLS


I bought mine online, and remember seeing plenty of the 55inch ones out there...

Mike

I am the proud owner of a 55WF655. The set has served me well and I enjoy it immensely. I would love to get darker blacks but have not seem to have found any adjustment recommendations to the service menu. If there is an easy way to darken the blacks, please share it with me.
WLS

Well this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4849204&&) is about installing a neutral density filter, from the sound of it it's both daunting and effective :)

Thanks TomCat! I started to worry there for a minute...

I recently took the plunge. My Old TV Took a dump and so I first bought a 4:3 32" Samsung direct view CRT HDTV. It wa food but when hooking up DVI I saw an RGB color arc. Then I went for the new LG 30" wide screen and the pic quality was not so good IMO. The BB sales people were all cool until I took that LG back and got the 42" Grand WEGA. I think it was the right TV for us. I got a Pioneer 7.1 ch 815 something or another A?V reciever with Sony Satellite speakers, PS2, a CyberHome 655 up conversion DVD player.

I thought I could get the optical out on the TV to send what comes in from the HDMI to the non-HDMI reciever, but the manual states that the OPT OUT only is active when recieving digital signal from RF inputs.... Is there a way around that??

Thanks...


Joe

I saw the post about speaker off AND Fixed Audio....

I'll try it tonight!!

Thanks!!

I have a 60" XS and I am getting a "ping" only on NBC OTA. When a show/commericial starts or ends, there is a high pitched "ping" sound. I noticed this only happens with NBC. :eek:

Anyone have any info?

Has anyone figured out how to fix the input bug? Mine does it every 3 to 7 days for the 10 seconds then dissapears. :rolleyes:

First the weird video problem a couple of weeks ago, and now noise problem...

Past week, I have noticed a loud "buzz" :eek: coming from my TV. After several hours of use, the set emits a buzzing sound. Something like standing close to a high power distribution station.

I hit the mute, and isolated the noise. At first I thought it was a fan, but I think there is only one fan on the right (facing the rear of the set). This sound was coming from the left where the AC power runs into the set.

Does anyone who as taken one apart know how many fans are in this thing?

Not sure what I am going to do yet. But I can't live with it (louder then the movies)


Any thoughts?

I had some techs come out a few weeks ago to replace a noisy fan in my 42WE655 and, if I remember correctly, they said there were three fans in the set.

are you connecting your sound card to your TV speakers?
if so, i had SERIOUS humm / "power station" noise.




First the weird video problem a couple of weeks ago, and now noise problem...

Past week, I have noticed a loud "buzz" :eek: coming from my TV. After several hours of use, the set emits a buzzing sound. Something like standing close to a high power distribution station.

I hit the mute, and isolated the noise. At first I thought it was a fan, but I think there is only one fan on the right (facing the rear of the set). This sound was coming from the left where the AC power runs into the set.

Does anyone who as taken one apart know how many fans are in this thing?

Not sure what I am going to do yet. But I can't live with it (louder then the movies)


Any thoughts?

I only have three inputs... Cable, HDMI, and RCA on Video 1. The buzzing occurs on all video sources and when the tv is muted. I am assuming it is either a fan or a power supply.

Any other options/moving parts?


are you connecting your sound card to your TV speakers?
if so, i had SERIOUS humm / "power station" noise.

I'm new to posting to AVS but I have been lurking for quite some time now. Just last weekend, I finally bought a Samsung HD-850 and hooked it up last night. I ran into a couple of issues I didn't notice in the GWIV owners thread though I only skimmed the posts. When hooking the HD-850 to Video 5 with component cables and hooking to Video 7 with HDMI and no other video connections, the DVD player seems to not stay in HDMI/Component Progressive mode when switching inputs. If I start in Video 5 and switch to Video 7 with scaled resolution, upon returning to Video 5, the DVD player has returned to Composite/S-video format. Also, when switching between the TV inputs, sometimes (not always) the DVD player seems to stop playing or un-pauses if I had the player paused. Has anyone noticed any IR cross issues between these 2 units?

Thank you for anything anyone can provide on this issue.

Phil

I'm new to posting to AVS but I have been lurking for quite some time now. Just last weekend, I finally bought a Samsung HD-850 and hooked it up last night. I ran into a couple of issues I didn't notice in the GWIV owners thread though I only skimmed the posts. When hooking the HD-850 to Video 5 with component cables and hooking to Video 7 with HDMI and no other video connections, the DVD player seems to not stay in HDMI/Component Progressive mode when switching inputs. If I start in Video 5 and switch to Video 7 with scaled resolution, upon returning to Video 5, the DVD player has returned to Composite/S-video format. Also, when switching between the TV inputs, sometimes (not always) the DVD player seems to stop playing or un-pauses if I had the player paused. Has anyone noticed any IR cross issues between these 2 units?

Thank you for anything anyone can provide on this issue.

Phil

Sorry I can't help you with the IR cross issues, or any general probs particular to the Sammy. But as far as any HDMI output player performance when used with a Sony GW there seems to be a void. At least that has been my experience.
A fair number of us tried the Sony NS975V with some success both with components and HDMI. But the differences are not great, although with that particular Sony player (good deinterlacer), and even with the display doing upconverting, the results are quite good if not stunning.
If anyone has had a very positive experience with gen III or IV GWs and HDMI players I would be very interested in hearing it. I have asked this more than once and I either get no response or a rather vague one.
UMR, our veteran Sony tweaker has suggested the Momitsu is about the best match, but even then you will not likely get similar results others have with digital output players like the Oppo, Pan. S97, various Samsungs, etc. using other display technology.

read the reviews.

I bought some inexpensive panasonic HDMI cables at walmart. It is AWESOME. The DVD player has some delayed response issues to the remote and controls, but the PQ was great. .

But then I have been watching a 20" tv for the past year and a half. :D

I can't wait for an HD-DVD player and content (if they're under $200)

Good luck.

Hi,

I have the 42WE655 and the Oppo Video Up-converting DVD player and think they work well together... As a matter of fact, I had the CyberHome 655 player and couldent get the screen to configure properly...

I use the Wide/Sqz mode on the Oppo and that way I get a true circle when viewing the THX optomizer test screens for both 4:3 and 16:9....

Anyone care to add or comment on that??

I'm new here and just threw out my 2 cents...

Joe

These are the kind of positive results I was hoping to hear. I may well wait for Oppo to resolve the shimmering issue and jump in.

KDFWF655, CableCard, and Sony:

I got a call at home from "Sony Engineering in California" the other night - the guy said that Sony had been contacted by my cable company (CableOne) due to many problems with digital channels via the cablecard. I have a KDFWF655 that I purchased in October 2004.

The Sony rep said that Sony believes that the missing digital channels problem would be fixed with a "firmware upgrade" and they would have a local Sony tech rep come over to do the upgrade. I asked if they could just send me the memory stick so I could do it myself, and he said that they usually don't do that.

I told him I would be happy either way, and he said they would let me know what Sony was going to do.

Now if it just fixes the cablecard problem...

I just recently got a 42WE655 and I have a question about hooking up a dvd player via component cables and getting audio as well. Eventually I am going to have a surround sound system but right now I dont have it. So for the time being I hooked up my DVD player to the TV with component cables and the video is working fine but how is the best way to get sound without hooking up my sound system?