jojo57
05-11-11, 10:19 PM
Be sure to buy a OEM bulb,SONY,PHILLIPS...From a reputable dealer Take my advice ,Don`t buy a cheap knock off .Spend the money & avoid the headaches.
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View Full Version : GWIV owner thread jojo57 05-11-11, 10:19 PM Be sure to buy a OEM bulb,SONY,PHILLIPS...From a reputable dealer Take my advice ,Don`t buy a cheap knock off .Spend the money & avoid the headaches. cnickersonjr 05-12-11, 01:12 PM I can't speak with authority, but if you've never changed the lamp on a 2005 TV, you are long overdue. I have changed the bulb before. In '09 I believe. BoogerBomb 06-02-11, 10:27 AM Well my tv KDF52we655 decided to start showing a blue line that starts at the bottom left corner and follows the bottom of the tv about 2/3rds of the way across. It extends a few inches up. I bought it at Circuit City in 2004 or 2005 and the extended warranty I bought from them has expired. The problem I have with the solution is I don't have hundreds of dollars to put towards a replacement tv or repair. Im just screwed aren't I? vando45 06-02-11, 11:06 AM Check your lamp compartment for overheating. If it can't be repaired they should offer a refurbished TV for free. ayalahelen 06-24-11, 01:50 PM I purchased a DKF-50WE655 in 12/04 for $3500 including warranty. Then I paid the warranty people $146 to replace the bulb. That was my deductible. Today Sony offered me the KDL46BX421 for $225 and the KDL55EX710 for $550. Is that a good deal or ? FLRich 06-26-11, 06:17 PM I purchased a DKF-50WE655 in 12/04 for $3500 including warranty. Then I paid the warranty people $146 to replace the bulb. That was my deductible. Today Sony offered me the KDL46BX421 for $225 and the KDL55EX710 for $550. Is that a good deal or ? Just e-mailed Sonylistens today and posted on the "I Have a Defective Sony TV" facebook page. Got a reply from one of their reps on the facebook page, just said they would answer my e-mail as soon as possible. I have a KDF-55WF655 that I purchased in January of 2005 for around $3000. What is the difference between the KDL55ES710 and the ES720? Waiting to see what kind of offers they give me. FLRich 06-26-11, 06:44 PM Pic of my kdf-55wf655 steve ans 06-26-11, 07:00 PM Just e-mailed Sonylistens today and posted on the "I Have a Defective Sony TV" facebook page. Got a reply from one of their reps on the facebook page, just said they would answer my e-mail as soon as possible. I have a KDF-55WF655 that I purchased in January of 2005 for around $3000. What is the difference between the KDL55ES710 and the ES720? Waiting to see what kind of offers they give me. 720 is 3D capable BoogerBomb 06-27-11, 02:14 PM I purchased a DKF-50WE655 in 12/04 for $3500 including warranty. Then I paid the warranty people $146 to replace the bulb. That was my deductible. Today Sony offered me the KDL46BX421 for $225 and the KDL55EX710 for $550. Is that a good deal or ? I got the same offer today. I want the 55 inch one but keep reading about a flashlight effect. I wonder how often the replacement models change? steve ans 06-27-11, 10:09 PM I got the same offer today. I want the 55 inch one but keep reading about a flashlight effect. I wonder how often the replacement models change? I have a KDL-52EX701 (like the EX700) which was the model previous to the 710. Slight light leaks from the LED edge lit technology vary from set to set. I have minimal leaking and not noticeable head on. With LED technology, especially edge or dynamic edge lit, this is not uncommon. the advantages of this technology is an overall brighter, superior picture compared to CCFL. Will it ever be perfect. i don't think so but who cares? I love watching this TV and prefer the OVERALL quality to my 3-4 year old CCFL set. FLRich 06-28-11, 06:32 PM I purchased a DKF-50WE655 in 12/04 for $3500 including warranty. Then I paid the warranty people $146 to replace the bulb. That was my deductible. Today Sony offered me the KDL46BX421 for $225 and the KDL55EX710 for $550. Is that a good deal or ? I got the same offer today. I want the 55 inch one but keep reading about a flashlight effect. I wonder how often the replacement models change? Just got the exact same offer today. This must be their standard offer. I was really wanting the EX720 but the 3D part is not that important to me at this time. I will go for the 55" but will definitely inquire about the 720 to see what they will do on that model. Just an up-date (6-30). Was offered the 55ex720 along with the 55EX710. The 710 was offered at $550 and the 720 for $602. Tried to get them to include the cost of the bulb I had to replace last January but they only do that if it was within the last 12 months. :( After doing a little more research I have decided to get the 55EX710. I really don't care about the 3-D capabilities of the 720 and found that the refresh rate on both tv's is the same 120Hz. The advertised Motionflow Technology: XR 240 doe's not mean it runs at 240Hz as I thought it did. That, along with the extra digital inputs, made up my mind for the 710. I am sending in my paperwork tomorrow so hopefully it won't take that long to get the replacement TV sent. FLRich 07-02-11, 09:18 AM I came across this link that shows the complete Optical Block removal and light engine break-down. http://sites.google.com/site/sonylcdrptvproblems/sonykdf-55wf655opticalblockreplacement I was wondering, with a replacement TV in hand has anyone attempted to replace the LCD panel and blue light filter themselves? TriState Module sells the replacement LCD panel but I have not found anywhere that sells the filters. http://tristatemodule.com/p-16423-sony-replacement-lcd-optical-block-panel-lcx043axxx.aspx Not sure I would attempt it myself but was just checking to see if anyone had tried. BoogerBomb 07-07-11, 07:33 PM Lets say someone may have forgotten about his offer, will I still be able to get a deal or did I screw myself? I mean did he screw himself? DaverJ 07-07-11, 07:56 PM Lets say someone may have forgotten about his offer, will I still be able to get a deal or did I screw myself? I mean did he screw himself? I seem to remember once the offer was made, there's a limited time to respond. You can always try again though, couldn't hurt. vando45 07-08-11, 12:04 PM Lets say someone may have forgotten about his offer, will I still be able to get a deal or did I screw myself? I mean did he screw himself? The offer is only good for 7 days because of the availability of the TVs. After that they will make you a different offer. I would email the Sony listens team, or PM one of them on Facebook. ccampbell351 07-08-11, 08:13 PM I am having the blue blob/optical block thing happen with my 42WE655 that I bought in 2005. I sent an e-mail to Sony Listens. I wanted to post on the facebook page too, but there doesn't seem to be a way to join so I can post. I can just see what other people posted. So I found this forum through a google search, and decided to join here to see what I could learn. FLRich 07-08-11, 10:37 PM I am having the blue blob/optical block thing happen with my 42WE655 that I bought in 2005. I sent an e-mail to Sony Listens. I wanted to post on the facebook page too, but there doesn't seem to be a way to join so I can post. I can just see what other people posted. So I found this forum through a google search, and decided to join here to see what I could learn. Hey Campbell, I am in the middle of getting a replacement TV for my defective 55WF655. You need to get a Face book account so you can go to the "I Have a Defective Sony TV" page and post your concerns. You are on the right track with Sony Listens, they will take better care of you than the regular Sony Support site. The Sony Listens group monitors the face book page and will help you through the process. One of them is the VP for Sony Support and has helped many with their concerns. The WE's had the over-heating issues along with the optical block ones. They will get you a pretty good deal on a replacement TV. Find a model you like and if they don't offer it to you at first, e-mail the Sony Listens folks with the model you are interested in and see what they can do. Good Luck, I am expecting delivery of my new 55EX710 hopefully sometime next week! By the way, AVSForum is a great site with a ton of knowledgeable people on here. There is a vast amount of material on several different subjects. I have been on here, off and on, for the last 7 years. Just about anything you need to know about Audio and Visual equipment. MISSY QUICK 07-13-11, 04:20 PM I have a Sony KDF 50WE655 with the optical block issue. Was offered the following: KDL55EX500 $500.00 + local sales tax KDL46BX421 $225.00 + local sales tax I was not pleased with these offers. I spoke with a representative today and was told that no other offers are available. I could, however, call back in a week and inquire as to whether any other offers are available at that time. Any one have any luck when calling back? I am not a "Sony fan" right now. Thank You. MQ TIDEFAN1 07-14-11, 03:45 PM I have a KDF50WE655 that is starting to experienc the optical block problem. I sent an email to Sony Listens and got an immediate response back with this offer: KLD46BX421 $225 KLD55EX500 $500 I have seen a lot of different offers on here. I have seen some where the 55EX500 was offered for free. Should I try to get a better offer? FLRich 07-15-11, 11:24 PM I have a KDF50WE655 that is starting to experienc the optical block problem. I sent an email to Sony Listens and got an immediate response back with this offer: KLD46BX421 $225 KLD55EX500 $500 I have seen a lot of different offers on here. I have seen some where the 55EX500 was offered for free. Should I try to get a better offer? It all depends on what is going on with your set. If there is heat damage in the bulb area then the set is unrepairable and they will usually offer something like a refurbished EX500 for free or a discount on another new model. If it is just the OB failure then you will not be offered the free refurbished set. If you are not happy with your choices, re e-mail the sony listens group and give them the specific set you are interested in. Don't mess with the sony customer service group, you will do a lot better with the sony listens group. Make sure you let them know about any money spent for repairs or bulb replacement in the last 12 months as that will also figure into how much you can get the replacement sets for. gfbuchanan 07-16-11, 07:03 PM My KDF-55WF655 has the blue lines and a blue smear. From information gained on this site, I emailed SonyListens and they made the following offer: KDL55EX500 for $500 + tax or KDL46BX421 for $225 + tax I use the Picture and Picture a lot, which these two sets lack, so I sent them an email asking if they could offer the KDL55EX720 as a replacement. They responded positivily, for a price of $703 + tax. I have started the process to purchase this set. As described by others, Sony wants the serial number label from the TV and a photo of the problem, both showing my incident number. I am told it takes two to three weeks from the time they receive the label at the processing center in Florida. Will see how this works out. Greg FLRich 07-18-11, 11:46 AM My KDF-55WF655 has the blue lines and a blue smear. From information gained on this site, I emailed SonyListens and they made the following offer: KDL55EX500 for $500 + tax or KDL46BX421 for $225 + tax I use the Picture and Picture a lot, which these two sets lack, so I sent them an email asking if they could offer the KDL55EX720 as a replacement. They responded positivily, for a price of $703 + tax. I have started the process to purchase this set. As described by others, Sony wants the serial number label from the TV and a photo of the problem, both showing my incident number. I am told it takes two to three weeks from the time they receive the label at the processing center in Florida. Will see how this works out. Greg Greg, Don't be surprised if it happens A LOT faster than that. I had my TV delivered (KDL55EX710) 6 days after they received my paper work. Never even received an e-mail confirming delivery...the delivery guy called and was on my street! vando45 07-18-11, 12:07 PM I have a Sony KDF 50WE655 with the optical block issue. Was offered the following: KDL55EX500 $500.00 + local sales tax KDL46BX421 $225.00 + local sales tax I was not pleased with these offers. I spoke with a representative today and was told that no other offers are available. I could, however, call back in a week and inquire as to whether any other offers are available at that time. Any one have any luck when calling back? I am not a "Sony fan" right now. Thank You. MQ I have a KDF50WE655 that is starting to experienc the optical block problem. I sent an email to Sony Listens and got an immediate response back with this offer: KLD46BX421 $225 KLD55EX500 $500 I have seen a lot of different offers on here. I have seen some where the 55EX500 was offered for free. Should I try to get a better offer? Make sure you check for heat damage, and let the Sony Listens team know if you do. I have a 42WE655 with heat damage and they offered a free refurbished 46EX500. I ended up with a 46EX720 for $350. kricker 07-23-11, 09:59 PM What are the symptoms and signs of heat damage? I just notice what may be the blue blob creeping up from the bottom of my screen. DaverJ 07-23-11, 11:23 PM What are the symptoms and signs of heat damage? I just notice what may be the blue blob creeping up from the bottom of my screen. I believe the heat damage is visible not on the screen but inside like these pics. (http://sites.google.com/site/sonylcdrptvproblems/lamp-overheating-issue) The blue blob is probably the optical block failing. Mine did, it was rebuilt and it's been fine since. Remember that rebuilding is no guarantee that the blue blob won't return. kricker 07-23-11, 11:36 PM Oh yeah, the rebuilding. I remember that now. I had a new optical block put in due to a stuck red pixel 2 years into it's life. I'm thinking that is why mine has lasted as long as it has. It may be time to just let it go and move on. Hmmm, decisions decisions. FLRich 07-24-11, 12:06 PM Oh yeah, the rebuilding. I remember that now. I had a new optical block put in due to a stuck red pixel 2 years into it's life. I'm thinking that is why mine has lasted as long as it has. It may be time to just let it go and move on. Hmmm, decisions decisions. The Blue Blob is the optical block bleeding through blue light. The blue light filter has degraded as maybe the LCD panel. You can rebuild the optical block but it will eventually degrade again with time. Send an e-mail to sonylistens@am.sony.com, do not use the regular customer support. The sonylistens group was put together to deal with the RPTV problems. They also monitor a facebook page "I Have A Defective Sony TV" and will answer any questions and help you anyway they can. I had the same problem and was offered a replacement TV at a big discount. If you are ready to buy a new set anyway, contact them and they will make you an offer on a replacement set. I was able to get a KDL-55EX710 for $550. If you have spent any money in the last 12 months on the set, bulb or service, let them know that also...it can mean even more of a discount for you. kricker 07-25-11, 09:44 PM Thanks for the information refresher. I already emailed Sony listens and got a reply. I just need to research the offers for what best fits my current needs. FLRich 07-26-11, 07:11 PM I searched this thread and couldn't find anything on this. I have a KDF-55WF655 that I recently received a replacement TV for due to the blue blob OB problem. I am giving the TV to a family member who is going to get the OB rebuilt. The set has one other issue I am trying to find out what might be going on. If the TV is shut off, after being on for a hour or so, and then turned back on within the next couple of hours it has no audio output other than a high pitched squeal. You can turn the set off and leave it off for 3-4 hours and the audio will be fine when turned back on again. I don't know if this is some kind of feedback from the lamp firing circuitry, lamp comes on fine, or something to do with the power circuitry. Has anyone had this problem with their GW IV's? gfbuchanan 07-31-11, 08:38 PM I have to say I am pleased with Sony. While I am disappointed that my old KDE-55WE655 RPTV came down with the optical block problem, I am pleased that Sony has accepted some liability and provided a reasonable replacement program. Here is my story. When the optical block problems on my RPTV started to bother me a few weeks ago, I came here and found out about Sony Cares. I sent them an Email and they quickly responded with an offer to replace it with either a 46 or 55 inch LED TV. I thought about it, but the EX500 they offered does not have the Picture and Picture that I like to use. So I emailed back and asked if they would replace it with the KDL-55EX720. They quickly responded, yes for about $700. I accepted the offer and mailed them the Serial Number label and a photo of the problem on Friday, a week ago. They received the order on Monday and shipped the TV on Wednesday, from Long Beach, CA. It was delivered last Friday. The TV was delivered by a freight company, and only included putting the box down in my family room. Unboxing and setup was up to me (not a problem). During this whole exchange, Sony was diligent about keeping me informed on the status, via Email. The end result is it only took a week from the time I accepted and mailed the Serial Number label to Sony in Florida, to the delivery of the replacement. I think that was quite good. So far, I am pleased with the replacement TV. I think that Sony has been very fair in this transaction. Greg FLRich 08-01-11, 09:48 PM I have to say I am pleased with Sony. While I am disappointed that my old KDE-55WE655 RPTV came down with the optical block problem, I am pleased that Sony has accepted some liability and provided a reasonable replacement program. Here is my story. When the optical block problems on my RPTV started to bother me a few weeks ago, I came here and found out about Sony Cares. I sent them an Email and they quickly responded with an offer to replace it with either a 46 or 55 inch LED TV. I thought about it, but the EX500 they offered does not have the Picture and Picture that I like to use. So I emailed back and asked if they would replace it with the KDL-55EX720. They quickly responded, yes for about $700. I accepted the offer and mailed them the Serial Number label and a photo of the problem on Friday, a week ago. They received the order on Monday and shipped the TV on Wednesday, from Long Beach, CA. It was delivered last Friday. The TV was delivered by a freight company, and only included putting the box down in my family room. Unboxing and setup was up to me (not a problem). During this whole exchange, Sony was diligent about keeping me informed on the status, via Email. The end result is it only took a week from the time I accepted and mailed the Serial Number label to Sony in Florida, to the delivery of the replacement. I think that was quite good. So far, I am pleased with the replacement TV. I think that Sony has been very fair in this transaction. Greg I paid $550 for the 55EX710, don't care about the 3D at this point and the 710 is pretty much the 720 with no 3D. Love the TV so far, have had it about a month now and have pretty much settled on my user settings. I, too, thought the offer was very fair. Still have my old TV, KDF 55WF655, not sure what I will do with it but may just give it to a family member that is interested in getting the OB rebuilt. I am sure you will like your new TV. kricker 08-03-11, 07:37 PM I was offered the EX500 and EX720 line. After some research I asked for the NX720 line. Here are additional features of the NX720 line. Motionflow 240 Gorilla Glass Opticontrast panel Built in wifi (no dongle needed) Built in 3d emitter (no extra emitter needed) Dynamic edge lit vando45 08-05-11, 12:35 PM FYI, the EX720 has Motionflow 240 and a built in 3D emitter. kricker 08-05-11, 12:56 PM Correct. The NX720 has built in WIFI and the Gorilla Glass panel with dynamic edge LED lighting. The EX720 has regular edge LED lighting and is WIFI ready, meaning you have to buy the Sony USB dongle if you want to be wireless. What I know is only base on the specs from Sony's site while researching. I plan to go to a store to see them in person tonight. That way I can get a better sense of each sets design and screen reflectivity. DaverJ 08-05-11, 01:16 PM I plan to go to a store to see them in person tonight. That way I can get a better sense of each sets design and screen reflectivity. My $0.02: Keep an eye out for LED TVs that are blueish in the whites. I noticed this on some sets last year when I was looking to possibly replace my XS955. (I didn't.) Some people might prefer or not notice the cooler nature of LED. Also, this year's TVs might have overcome this and might not be an issue anymore. kricker 08-05-11, 01:31 PM Hey there DaverJ. I bought a 46hx800 in December for a really great deal. Once I got it calibrated for my taste it looks great. I don't recall if it had a bluish tint out of the box or not. I calibrated it within moments of turing it on. Everyone that comes in my office comments on how great the picture is. I can only hope this years dynamic LED sets are as good or better. I plan on getting either the ex or nx 720 soon. Feel free to swing by and check it out once I get it setup. cnickersonjr 08-05-11, 04:39 PM My KDF-50WE655 (Manufactured Jan 2005) picture comes on for a few seconds or so, then the picture goes black (No input label or picture at all). The power light (green) flashes. Then a few seconds or so goes by then the picture returns. Power light solid now. It continues this cycle! No action from the bulb light. Is this a weak bulb screaming for replacement? Any suggestions would be welcomed. Anyone ever experience this? Dawgdaes 08-05-11, 05:03 PM Correct. The NX720 has built in WIFI and the Gorilla Glass panel with dynamic edge LED lighting. The EX720 has regular edge LED lighting and is WIFI ready, meaning you have to buy the Sony USB dongle if you want to be wireless. What I know is only base on the specs from Sony's site while researching. I plan to go to a store to see them in person tonight. That way I can get a better sense of each sets design and screen reflectivity. I just got the nx 820 I was really worried about the reflectivity issues since I have bright room with alot of windows. The set is awesome not a problem at all. I think the lighting in the stores make it worse. I still follow this thread b/c had a 42" lcd till last year I got a 46Z5100 for my exhange. I got the 820 this week for my 40th birthday. msltechie 08-25-11, 11:00 PM Hello everyone. My KDF-42WE655 started to go with the blue haze across the bottom about six months ago, and more recently it's begun to leak blue spots in the middle of the screen. After chatting with Sony Support online, they made me the following offer - KDL46BX421 $200.00 + local sales tax KDL40EX720 $350.00 + local sales tax Can I do better via an email to Sony Listens or a post on the Defective Sony Facebook page? What happens after the week is up - am I out of luck? While I'm not happy how Sony handled this situation, truth be told I was very happy with this TV and I'd buy another Sony if they stood behind it. Thanks for any and all suggestions. Mike gfbuchanan 08-26-11, 08:12 PM Hello everyone. My KDF-42WE655 started to go with the blue haze across the bottom about six months ago, and more recently it's begun to leak blue spots in the middle of the screen. After chatting with Sony Support online, they made me the following offer - KDL46BX421 $200.00 + local sales tax KDL40EX720 $350.00 + local sales tax Can I do better via an email to Sony Listens or a post on the Defective Sony Facebook page? What happens after the week is up - am I out of luck? While I'm not happy how Sony handled this situation, truth be told I was very happy with this TV and I'd buy another Sony if they stood behind it. Thanks for any and all suggestions. Mike Not sure if you will get a better offer from Sony Listens. I doubt it. The one week timeframe is for the price. If you take your time and come back to them more than a week later, they may no longer offer those particular TVs or prices. But they will offer you something else in that case. Greg Dawgdaes 08-26-11, 08:37 PM Hello everyone. My KDF-42WE655 started to go with the blue haze across the bottom about six months ago, and more recently it's begun to leak blue spots in the middle of the screen. After chatting with Sony Support online, they made me the following offer - KDL46BX421 $200.00 + local sales tax KDL40EX720 $350.00 + local sales tax Can I do better via an email to Sony Listens or a post on the Defective Sony Facebook page? What happens after the week is up - am I out of luck? While I'm not happy how Sony handled this situation, truth be told I was very happy with this TV and I'd buy another Sony if they stood behind it. Thanks for any and all suggestions. Mike Man I did much better last year with my offer from Sony for the same TV. My cheapest offer was around 500 I ended up getting 46z for like 600. I would hold out for better. I would not settle for anything less the 240hz. Coming from that tv 120 will look like crap. msltechie 08-27-11, 12:56 PM Thanks for the info! I'm just starting to do my research now. I haven't shopped for TV's in a while so I have to get up to speed on some of the new technology. I didn't find these exact tv's on Sony's website - perhaps they are only available for this replacement program. I'd like to get one the same size (42) or a bit bigger, but I don't need the 3D. If anyone knows of a good website that discusses the various Sony models, EX vs BX vs HX, etc, please post it here. Thanks. Dawgdaes 08-27-11, 03:00 PM Thanks for the info! I'm just starting to do my research now. I haven't shopped for TV's in a while so I have to get up to speed on some of the new technology. I didn't find these exact tv's on Sony's website - perhaps they are only available for this replacement program. I'd like to get one the same size (42) or a bit bigger, but I don't need the 3D. If anyone knows of a good website that discusses the various Sony models, EX vs BX vs HX, etc, please post it here. Thanks. The compare feature on sonystyle.com works well. FLRich 08-27-11, 03:24 PM Hello everyone. My KDF-42WE655 started to go with the blue haze across the bottom about six months ago, and more recently it's begun to leak blue spots in the middle of the screen. After chatting with Sony Support online, they made me the following offer - KDL46BX421 $200.00 + local sales tax KDL40EX720 $350.00 + local sales tax Can I do better via an email to Sony Listens or a post on the Defective Sony Facebook page? What happens after the week is up - am I out of luck? While I'm not happy how Sony handled this situation, truth be told I was very happy with this TV and I'd buy another Sony if they stood behind it. Thanks for any and all suggestions. Mike A couple things to remember, if you spent any money in the last 12 months on your WE655, make sure to let Sony Listens team know that. It will affect your offers. The WE series had trouble with the lamp door/area melting, check yours well...it can make a big difference. I would definitely contact the Sony Listens team via email or on the facebook page, especially if there is a particular model you are interested in. Be careful of some of the wording on some of the models...motionflow 240 is not 240Hz unless it says Hz, the EX720 is 120Hz even though it states it has Motionflow 240. To be honest, unless you want 3D, 120Hz is more than efficient and the 2D on most all the newer sets is very good. You can get a wide variety of opinions on here on what is best, go look at them in person and get what looks best to you. Good Luck!! I have been enjoying my replacement TV for a couple months now...you'll be happy. vando45 08-28-11, 09:08 AM Hello everyone. My KDF-42WE655 started to go with the blue haze across the bottom about six months ago, and more recently it's begun to leak blue spots in the middle of the screen. After chatting with Sony Support online, they made me the following offer - KDL46BX421 $200.00 + local sales tax KDL40EX720 $350.00 + local sales tax Can I do better via an email to Sony Listens or a post on the Defective Sony Facebook page? What happens after the week is up - am I out of luck? While I'm not happy how Sony handled this situation, truth be told I was very happy with this TV and I'd buy another Sony if they stood behind it. Thanks for any and all suggestions. Mike I had the same model as you with heat damage. I got a 46EX720 for $350. Email the Sony Listens team. riffjim4069 09-15-11, 05:49 PM Wow! I haven't visited this thread in ages but the KDF-50WE655 we purchased in October started having the "Blue Blob" issue a couple months ago and it recently started bleeding through some pixels in the center of the screen...so I checked-out this thread. We have other HDTVs and feel that we've gotten a lot of money's worth out of this set so I was pleasantly surprised to see Sony's replacement/discount offer in regards to this issue. I was only offered two sets (they wouldn't budge) a 46" and 55" so I took the KDF-55EX500 for $500 +tax. It's a bedroom TV so it serves the purpose just fine. We've had nothing but great experiences with our Sony products (HDTVs, PS3HD DVRs, etc.) and customer service has been excellent. akshatp 09-23-11, 12:32 PM Emailed Sony Support after my TV started exhibiting the OB failure... Got this offer: KDL55HX820 for $975.00 + applicable taxes KDL55EX500 for $280.00 + applicable taxes KDL46EX500 for No Charge Should I go with the HX820 or EX500... decisions decisions. dawgpound78 10-04-11, 03:37 PM Emailed Sony Support after my TV started exhibiting the OB failure... Got this offer: KDL55HX820 for $975.00 + applicable taxes KDL55EX500 for $280.00 + applicable taxes KDL46EX500 for No Charge Should I go with the HX820 or EX500... decisions decisions. Do you mind if I ask what TV you had go bad on you? I have a KDF-50WE655 that I'm currently in the process of trying to get replaced and my offers were not as good. Mine were: KDL46EX500 for $225.00 + local sales tax KDL55EX500 for $500.00 + local sales tax These were offered to me on Sept. 13th, so the offers may be better now. Thanks. gfbuchanan 10-04-11, 10:17 PM Emailed Sony Support after my TV started exhibiting the OB failure... Got this offer: KDL55HX820 for $975.00 + applicable taxes KDL55EX500 for $280.00 + applicable taxes KDL46EX500 for No Charge Should I go with the HX820 or EX500... decisions decisions. The HX has gorilla glass, the EX has a matte screen. The HX Gorilla glass is reflective, so if you have reflections in your viewing room, you should consider the EX. That is what I got. Interestingly, to replace my 55WF655 they offered higher prices. I asked for the EX720, which they sold me for about $700. Greg Dawgdaes 10-06-11, 05:44 AM The HX has gorilla glass, the EX has a matte screen. The HX Gorilla glass is reflective, so if you have reflections in your viewing room, you should consider the EX. That is what I got. Interestingly, to replace my 55WF655 they offered higher prices. I asked for the EX720, which they sold me for about $700. Greg I'm in a very bright room with an HX. The glare is not a problem. The glare is an issue in stores when it is surrounded by spot lights and other tv's. The HX is amazing! Get it. dawgpound78 10-06-11, 10:29 AM As I mentioned in a previous reply, I'm going through the process of trying to get my TV repaired or replaced due to overheating and optical block problems. I've already had a certified technician that Sony recommended come out and evaluate my TV. My question is, how long has it taken for other customers with the oveheating problem to get a response back from Sony whether or not they will repair or offer replacment offers? Everything else up to this point has been a very quick turnaround but now it's been 2 1/2 weeks and they keep telling me that they're waiting on the report to come from the evaluators. Just curious if this is normal amount of time to wait. I'm a little bit leary because intially they made me an offer which I accepted and then the next day, called me out of the blue to say that I had to have my TV evaluated first. Thanks. gfbuchanan 10-06-11, 06:28 PM I'm in a very bright room with an HX. The glare is not a problem. The glare is an issue in stores when it is surrounded by spot lights and other tv's. The HX is amazing! Get it. Sorry. It's not the brightness, but the source of the brightness. In my viewing room are many windows. I don't want to pull the shades to watch TV, so reflections from the windows are a problem. Also, room lights reflect in the evening. Some of them can be moved, but some are fixed. So I believe my advise still is valid. If reflections bother you, then you may find the matte screens of the EX series more to your liking. Greg vando45 10-11-11, 12:16 PM As I mentioned in a previous reply, I'm going through the process of trying to get my TV repaired or replaced due to overheating and optical block problems. I've already had a certified technician that Sony recommended come out and evaluate my TV. My question is, how long has it taken for other customers with the oveheating problem to get a response back from Sony whether or not they will repair or offer replacment offers? Everything else up to this point has been a very quick turnaround but now it's been 2 1/2 weeks and they keep telling me that they're waiting on the report to come from the evaluators. Just curious if this is normal amount of time to wait. I'm a little bit leary because intially they made me an offer which I accepted and then the next day, called me out of the blue to say that I had to have my TV evaluated first. Thanks. Are you going through the Sony Listens team, or customer support? I heard back within 3 days after having my set evaluated. I would email the Sony Lstens team with your event # and let them know whats going on. Have you checked out the "I Have a Defective Sony TV" page on Facebook yet? dawgpound78 10-11-11, 03:31 PM Are you going through the Sony Listens team, or customer support? I heard back within 3 days after having my set evaluated. I would email the Sony Lstens team with your event # and let them know whats going on. Have you checked out the "I Have a Defective Sony TV" page on Facebook yet? I originally emailed the Sony Listens team and they replied back with a number to their support department. It's been quick replies up to my evaluation. I may try the email again as you suggested. Thanks for your reply. dawgpound78 10-14-11, 11:18 AM I tried the Sony Listens email again with no luck, but the Facebook page was immediately helpful. I was contacted and everything is worked out and my TV is on its way. Thanks vando45 for your suggestions. splinke 10-27-11, 08:03 PM IMPORTANT NOTICE I maintain the informational web site (https://sites.google.com/site/sonylcdrptvproblems/) on Sony optical block and related problems with their 2002-2007 rear projection liquid crystal TVs. Sony had been running an "optical block program" for about 1-1/2 years in which owners of these failed TVs received discounts off newer direct-view LCD TVs in exchange for a legal release. This program was abruptly terminated today, and the "I Have A Defective Sony TV" Facebook page, with tens of thousands of customer posts, was turned off. If you have a pending settlement with Sony for a failed optical block, you should probably try to resolve it quickly, as it is unknown whether Sony will be offering any future program. There is an alternative Facebook page called "I Still Have a Defective Sony TV (https://www.facebook.com/pages/I-Still-Have-a-Defective-Sony-TV/200792536623139)" that can be used for general discussion/complaints. vando45 10-30-11, 07:21 PM The "I Have A Defective Sony TV" Facebook page is back up. pixlpush 11-10-11, 08:49 AM I've been doing my best to over look the ever spreading blue spots on my 2004 Grand Wega but I couldn't take it anymore. I sold the TV on Craigslist for a laughable $100 just to get it out of the house. I had been a long time supporter of Sony and Sony products but they lost me over this one. Their price points continue to creep higher, but quality is heading down right along with their stock price. RIP Sony, your officially on my DO NOT BUY list! vando45 11-10-11, 01:31 PM I've been doing my best to over look the ever spreading blue spots on my 2004 Grand Wega but I couldn't take it anymore. I sold the TV on Craigslist for a laughable $100 just to get it out of the house. I had been a long time supporter of Sony and Sony products but they lost me over this one. Their price points continue to creep higher, but quality is heading down right along with their stock price. RIP Sony, your officially on my DO NOT BUY list! Did you contact Sony Listens? pixlpush 11-10-11, 06:53 PM Did you contact Sony Listens? I didn't bother to contact them, I really don't want anything else to do with Sony or their products at this point. Just writing it off and moving on. May they stick their memory sticks where the sun doesn't shine. gfbuchanan 11-11-11, 06:56 PM I didn't bother to contact them, I really don't want anything else to do with Sony or their products at this point. Just writing it off and moving on. May they stick their memory sticks where the sun doesn't shine. Bet that the person who purchased your old Sony is going to use it to get a new, 3D flat screen at a significant discount. That can be the only reason I can think of for someone to purchase one of the old RPTVs. I like my 55EX720 for 2D and I don't care about 3D. Was glad Sony was willing to sell it to me for a significant discount, even though my RPTV was several years out of warranty. Greg Acadian 12-04-11, 03:19 PM I received this offer for an optical block problem on my Sony KF42WE620: KDL40BX420 for $56 KDL46BX420 for $141 I only have one week to respond, like everyone else. Is this offer good enough? I did purchase a new light bulb last year for over $300 from Sony themselves. I saw the tv yesterday, seems decent qualitym but only 60 Hz. I do not need 3D. Should i call them back and mention the bulb? Are those tv's fine or should i try and upgrade? I mostly watch HD cable and play some XBox. Thanks! steve ans 12-04-11, 04:32 PM I received this offer for an optical block problem on my Sony KF42WE620: KDL40BX420 for $56 KDL46BX420 for $141 I only have one week to respond, like everyone else. Is this offer good enough? I did purchase a new light bulb last year for over $300 from Sony themselves. I saw the tv yesterday, seems decent qualitym but only 60 Hz. I do not need 3D. Should i call them back and mention the bulb? Are those tv's fine or should i try and upgrade? I mostly watch HD cable and play some XBox. Thanks! OMG, the offer is so low-priced, it's practically free. if you want better, you might want to ask them but be prepared to spend more. Acadian 12-04-11, 05:49 PM OMG, the offer is so low-priced, it's practically free. if you want better, you might want to ask them but be prepared to spend more. I know the offer is good price-wise, but this will be my main tv. I don't just want to say "who cares" and get either tv because they are cheap. Then have the need to purchase a brand new one and dish out $1000. Will either of those tv's play bluerays smoothly? I know they had the EX500's which were 120 Hz, but they didn't offer me those. Thanks! steve ans 12-04-11, 07:29 PM I have a KDL40W3000 in the bedroom which is 60hz and very watchable. I also have a 120hz 52EX701 which was a Sony offer replacement. Yes, there is a difference but I can still watch my "W" and enjoy it. Your 60hz offers are the less expensive end of the spectrum. Remember, most LCDs were 60hz for a long time. If this is something you're going to be unhappy with, speak to the Sony team and see if they can offer you a 120hz set. If this is all that's available, take their offer and enjoy and when you can, upgrade the set yourself in the near future. These are practically free, after all. Acadian 12-04-11, 08:48 PM I have a KDL40W3000 in the bedroom which is 60hz and very watchable. I also have a 120hz 52EX701 which was a Sony offer replacement. Yes, there is a difference but I can still watch my "W" and enjoy it. Your 60hz offers are the less expensive end of the spectrum. Remember, most LCDs were 60hz for a long time. If this is something you're going to be unhappy with, speak to the Sony team and see if they can offer you a 120hz set. If this is all that's available, take their offer and enjoy and when you can, upgrade the set yourself in the near future. These are practically free, after all. I realize they are as good as my Sony Grand Vega. I'm sure i'll be happy with the tv. I'm just asking if these tv's (KDL40BX420 or KDL46BX420) will play 1080P content to my liking (blueray, etc). I don't have a blueray NOW, but i assume i will need/have one in the near future...and since i have to dish out $150 for the replacement tv, i might be willing to dish out a few bucks more, but only if it is necessary for 1080P content. Thanks! ARBDIGG 12-19-11, 01:02 PM I also have a Sony Grand Wega TV (KDF-42WE655) that now "is no longer covered under warranty". After writing email to sonylistens, and speaking to them on sonysupport (800-222-7669), their only response was "...sorry to hear about your TV". We can help you find a Sony authorized servicer in your area. No more Sony electronics for me! If further class actions are started, include me in! My problem is the failing optical block...with resulting blue band at bottom of screen. I hope that anyone that shops for electronic equipment, be it TV's or other, will look seriously at brands other than Sony. I will discourage anyone from buying Sony -- DO NOT BUY SONY EQUIPMENT!!!! steve ans 12-19-11, 06:50 PM I also have a Sony Grand Wega TV (KDF-42WE655) that now "is no longer covered under warranty". After writing email to sonylistens, and speaking to them on sonysupport (800-222-7669), their only response was "...sorry to hear about your TV". We can help you find a Sony authorized servicer in your area. No more Sony electronics for me! If further class actions are started, include me in! My problem is the failing optical block...with resulting blue band at bottom of screen. I hope that anyone that shops for electronic equipment, be it TV's or other, will look seriously at brands other than Sony. I will discourage anyone from buying Sony -- DO NOT BUY SONY EQUIPMENT!!!! Unfortunately, the Sony replacement program looks like it has ended. ALL RP TVs were problematic. Sony's micro LCD technology developed unforeseen problems, namely the optical block. However, they did run a replacement program for about 18 months after doing it a few years earlier. I don't think it's quite fair to be that angry. No other TV manufacturer went to the lengths Sony did to remedy this situation for many people. What if you bought a car that developed problems years after the warranty expired? Would you expect the manufacturer to sell you a new car for, let's say $1200.00? It is really unfortunate your issue didn't develop during the replacement program. I do understand your frustration. But your TV is now 7-8 years old. I had a 50WE655 and was lucky to get into the replacement program in 2010 but Sony had to draw the line somewhere. vando45 12-20-11, 11:32 AM I also have a Sony Grand Wega TV (KDF-42WE655) that now "is no longer covered under warranty". After writing email to sonylistens, and speaking to them on sonysupport (800-222-7669), their only response was "...sorry to hear about your TV". We can help you find a Sony authorized servicer in your area. No more Sony electronics for me! If further class actions are started, include me in! My problem is the failing optical block...with resulting blue band at bottom of screen. I hope that anyone that shops for electronic equipment, be it TV's or other, will look seriously at brands other than Sony. I will discourage anyone from buying Sony -- DO NOT BUY SONY EQUIPMENT!!!! Have you checked for heat damage? Did you email the Sony Listens team? mtbdudex 03-09-12, 08:24 AM How to check for heat damage? Is there picts showing it? Maybe I got a lucky one, or something, but so far I've had no issues with my KDF42WE655, bought Feb-2005, still on original bulb. https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h4wmWry0wPs/RdIv7rRuxuI/AAAAAAAAKZ4/_hB2wnRRaR8/s576/detail.jpg DaverJ 03-09-12, 08:41 AM How to check for heat damage? Is there picts showing it? Yes, check this site. (http://sites.google.com/site/sonylcdrptvproblems/lamp-overheating-issue) Be sure to scroll down through the pics. mtbdudex 03-09-12, 08:56 AM Yes, check this site. (http://sites.google.com/site/sonylcdrptvproblems/lamp-overheating-issue) Be sure to scroll down through the pics. Wow, I'll check tonight but mine on exterior looks fine, and I've never felt heat from the door area. Thx for quick response. steve ans 03-09-12, 10:56 AM How to check for heat damage? Is there picts showing it? Maybe I got a lucky one, or something, but so far I've had no issues with my KDF42WE655, bought Feb-2005, still on original bulb. https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-h4wmWry0wPs/RdIv7rRuxuI/AAAAAAAAKZ4/_hB2wnRRaR8/s576/detail.jpgYou ARE lucky! I had a KDF-50WE655 that developed issues 2010. |