Originally posted by bruce24
I will provide an update Saturday.

50WE655. If there is a fan working anywhere, I sure can't hear one.

Originally posted by Dilweegie
Bought my wf55 from circuit city. two weeks later they advertised it for $100 less. I called three times and was promised the $100 (per price protection) but it never appears on my credit card (each csr says it will take 3 days).

That was 2 weeks ago and now the set's gone up in price so they won't credit me.

Aside from never shopping at circuit city again, can i do anything?


I'd try going to the store where they would do the credit in front of you. I was in CC today (Natick MA) and they still have the 55WF at $300 off the regular price. In addition, they are throwing in the Samsung DVD-HD841 this week.

Originally posted by bruce24
I'd try going to the store where they would do the credit in front of you. I was in CC today (Natick MA) and they still have the 55WF at $300 off the regular price. In addition, they are throwing in the Samsung DVD-HD841 this week.

CC did a $412 price protection on the 55WF for me. I did it in the store with no problems. How can you do this over the phone? You need a new CC receipt, stating the price you paid.

Originally posted by imagr
All I'm wondering about is wouldn't it be better to feed digital 480i to take advantage of the TV's DRC "doubler" which appears to be somewhat more flexible...

I don't think you need that. In fact, Sony doesn't think you need it either, which is prolly why you can't access it when viewing 720 and 1080 sources. DRC is really just Sony's method of making SD sources appear more pleasing (read: more tolerable) on a large display, something HD sources don't at all require.

This may not be an answer to what you're getting at, but as a 60XS owner, I can tell you this:

The upscaling in the set is perfect. No matter what the source, there is no visible scan lines, and no visible motion artifacts. Zero. And you can't tell any dif between 720 and 1080. Both look spectacular, in still mode and fast motion mode. With this set next to a 36" XBR SD set, I have never seen an artifact (other than the one below) on it that wasn't apparently already there in the source video (normally DirecTV for me). The single artifact that does appear is only there when my PVR is in still-field mode, and that seems to confuse the upscaling enough to create jaggies that are not as visible on the XBR. But as long as you're not freeze-framed, no problem.

A couple of quick newbie questions for you KDF-55wf655 owners.

1) Have any of you registered your TV on sonystyle.com? It's not one of the listed TV's. I just want to make sure that my warranty is in effect, or does the warrantly automatically apply to the set regardless of whether you register the TV or not?

2) The DRC "doubler" that is being dicussed above. Is this the "Progressive" or "Cinemotion" DRC setting, or neither of these?

Thanks much!

J*Cio,

Try this link: Sony KDF55WF655 (http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_DisplayProductInformation-Start?ProductSKU=KDF55WF655)

Mtnmike, when I said it wasn't listed, I meant when you click "Product Registration" it's not one of the TV's listed to register. Thanks though!

I had the same problem registering my KDF55WF655 with Sony Style web site. I ended up doing it over the phone. I don't remember getting a decent explanation for why it wasn't listed on the web.

I just got the KDF-55WF655 a few weeks back, and just had Voom and an OTA antenna installed on Monday. I get all the major broadcast stations via the OTA fine, but am having issues with the PBS feed which is just 13 miles away, vs. 30 for most of the others. It is in a different direction, so I'm guessing there is some topographical issue...

Anyway, how do you check the signal strength on the OTA tuner of this set?

I actually split the OTA feed into the voom box and the tv directly, and the voom box shows a strength of 70-78, with some jumps up to 90. Anything over 80 and I get a picture, but just for a second until it drops back under 80. Anyway, I'm curious to see what the Sony shows.

Thanks,
Sean

Did anyone get a warranty registration card with their set. My 60WF did not have one. Only a small card with warranty info.

I thinking my set may have been previously opened or something. The book and documents were in a bag sealed by brown packing tape.?? Looked unusual to me.

Jeff

Originally posted by JeffZX9R
Did anyone get a warranty registration card with their set. My 60WF did not have one. Only a small card with warranty info.

I thinking my set may have been previously opened or something. The book and documents were in a bag sealed by brown packing tape.?? Looked unusual to me.

Jeff

I didn't get one with my 50we655 that I bought 2 weeks ago either. Haven't seen anything in the documentation about registering the set and it's not one of the listed sets at Sony's product registration site. Are we required to register them or not? I wonder.
DougV

Originally posted by JeffZX9R
Did anyone get a warranty registration card with their set. My 60WF did not have one. Only a small card with warranty info.

Jeff

Jeff,

I didn't get one with my 55WF, what I did get for paper work was:
- Quick Setup Guide
- Operating Instructions Book
- Limited Warranty Card
- GPL/LGPL Software License
- Features and Notes on Viewing your LCD Projection TV (yellow paper)
- A Pink note about cleaning the rear of the TV

Originally posted by dvandeg
I didn't get one with my 50we655 that I bought 2 weeks ago either. Haven't seen anything in the documentation about registering the set and it's not one of the listed sets at Sony's product registration site. Are we required to register them or not? I wonder.
DougV

Generally (by law I think) you are not required to register a product to receive manufacturer warranty service. You will need to provide proof of purchase and date. The only real advantage registering gives you is if a recall or other fix/patch/update is available, the manufacturer can notify you.

Originally posted by JeffZX9R
Did anyone get a warranty registration card with their set. My 60WF did
not have one. Only a small card with warranty info.

I thinking my set may have been previously opened or something. The book
and documents were in a bag sealed by brown packing tape.?? Looked
unusual to me.

Jeff

I had the same issue with the brown packing tape. Date of manufacture was
9/04 (made in USA)... The white box plugs were missing, and the thing was
hideously wrapped and bunched up with two layers of that thin white foamy
stuff. I took pictures the day I opened it and immediately informed Good Guys
about my concern, as this was sold to me as NEW AND UNOPENED because I
clearly stated to them I did NOT want someone else's frustrations or lack of
common sense about things that are potentially associated with a previously
opened/owned set (like if someone couldn't get it to work and started
pounding the back of the set, or maybe didn't use protection against
spikes/surges, etc...) Never know if the last person to try it was careful and
sane. :) Rather not deal with that...


In any case, I printed out these photos and will take them to show the
manager tomorrow, and will insist on more perks/money back or else I'll bring
it back for a new one (preferably 10/04-made)... I'm thinking maybe
$100-$200 off the already discounted price...


I've tried a few projection sets (Sammy/Sony) and none were packed like
this...

http://home.comcast.net/~cryogenix/stuff/tv.jpg

http://home.comcast.net/~cryogenix/stuff/tv2.jpg

http://home.comcast.net/~cryogenix/stuff/tv3.jpg

Originally posted by TomCat
I don't think you need that. In fact, Sony doesn't think you need it either, which is prolly why you can't access it when viewing 720 and 1080 sources. DRC is really just Sony's method of making SD sources appear more pleasing (read: more tolerable) on a large display, something HD sources don't at all require.

This may not be an answer to what you're getting at, but as a 60XS owner, I can tell you this:

The upscaling in the set is perfect. ...

Sounds like we agree. Do upscaling on the 60XS rather than the DVD player. My point is, it seems like the 60XS doesn't upscale 480p or higher, only 480i.

I recently bought a 60WF655 and a stand and ran into various attitudes at the different stores regarding price matching. Bought the stand at Circuit City (Tech Craft PTV582). I had the Web price ($240) and a CC coupon for 15% off TV Stands. Well, the price in the store was $300.00. The sales associate would either match their own price or give me 15% off, but not both and wouldn't budge. So I bought it at the web price and then went to the customer service desk where I told them I forgot about my coupon, so they gave me the 15% off plus 10% of the difference (I hope it comes off the associate's comission).
When it came time to buy the TV, I had a 10% off coupon at BB if I use their credit card. At the time the CC price on the 55WF was about $150 less than BB. I told them I wanted the CC price match and then use my 10% off coupon. The response was no way in h---. I asked if they could sweaten the deal somehow and they immediately tried to sell me there extended warranty at full price. I walked out. Ended up at Sears next. They bent over backwards to make the sale. I had decided to go for the 60WF and they not only price matched CC but gave me 10% of the difference. I had a 10% off all electronics coupon from Sears which they immediately applied with no hesitation. And then the next day they had an earlybird special which was 10% off your bill. I took my receipt in and they gave me another 10% off. So I walked out of there with a 60WF for a couple hundred less than the BB was willing to offer me on a 55WF. And I also got free financing for a year.
So, at least in my experience, if you want hassle free price matching, try Sears and show up with lots of coupons, they will try hard to apply them all. I've had similar experiences buying tools at Sears also.

Originally posted by imagr
Sounds like we agree. Do upscaling on the 60XS rather than the DVD player. My point is, it seems like the 60XS doesn't upscale 480p or higher, only 480i.

The set displays 768p as it's native resolution. Any signal you feed it will get scaled to this.

If any of you can help with my 60 xs problem with channel programming getting messed up please do...your input is appreciated.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=476931

Cryogenix,

I think mine looked about the same. It was also missing that DRC logo sticker that goes above the power switch like other pictures I've seen. But, maybe it's just careless packing cause they're rushing to get orders out. You know they are assembled in the good ole USA.:rolleyes: Not that it's bad, I definitely prefer it to Mexico, but the packing doesn't look to be up to Japanese levels. But, they don't have to ship as far either.

Jeff

Originally posted by Cryogenix
Ummm...why are your remotes wearing condems? :D

That bright spot doesn't look like mine. Mine is thin and crescent-shaped, and is NOT a direct reflection of a light. However, the light COULD be hitting something within the LCD, and highlights it. Mine never moves. 4-5" right of center... Looks like someone set a one-gallon can of paint on the screen, and only 1/3 of the can left an impression.

LOL...
Well, I never take the covers off of the remotes. I don't even ever touch the controls on my receiver or my DVD player unless absolutely necessary. I hate putting fingerprints on them, especially the LED display glass on the receiver and dvd player. I have seen other people's remotes - greasy and stuff...yuck! We all eat and watch TV at the same time at some point. Messes up the remotes. I hope you didn't think what else the the white spot on the screen could be either...LOL :D

Regarding fan noise on this TV, I can't hear it at all while watching TV. The TV is placed 1 inch from the wall and I sit about 9 feet from it. I only hear it when I turn it on for about 5 seconds, and when I turn it off, the fan stays on for a bit, but its never too loud or annoying. I'm used to sitting next to 4 computers at work every day.

VOOM gets installed Saturday...can't wait :D

Originally posted by JeffZX9R
Cryogenix,

I think mine looked about the same. It was also missing that DRC logo sticker that goes above the power switch like other pictures I've seen. But, maybe it's just careless packing cause they're rushing to get orders out. You know they are assembled in the good ole USA.:rolleyes: Not that it's bad, I definitely prefer it to Mexico, but the packing doesn't look to be up to Japanese levels. But, they don't have to ship as far either.

Jeff

Mine had the exact same packing. I was kinda surprised with Sony packing their stuff this way. I mean I bought a Sony DSC-W1 digital camera last month, and that was packed so neatly. It even seemed to have more documents and cables than the stuff that came with this TV.

Also, no registration card with the TV. Sony usually has one with every product they sell. I had one with my digital camera and I registered it online to get 20% off on accessories for it. Was hoping to get some deals on accessories for the TV too, but oh well! There is nothing on Sony's website either to register for this product.

Originally posted by drengka
if you want hassle free price matching, try Sears and show up with lots of coupons, they will try hard to apply them all.

I bought my 55WF from the same guy I bought my 46" Sammy dlp (8 months ago) at a local Ultimate Electronics for like 23% off of their list (not retail). I did elect to buy a 5 warranty for $450 which includes up to 2 bulb replacements in the first 3 years, and if I don't use it at all, I'll get half of that back.

The best part about it was after adding a new Sammy dvd player and taxes, the total I paid was a little less that what they had the TV for sale at by itself.:D :cool:

Hook ups are possible if you ask for them and also try different sales people.;)

I have the KDF-55XS955....can someone please tell me why the DRC functions in the advanced menu are greyed out (unavailable)? I can access some of them, like the white enhancer, noise reduction, etc, but the top 2 (DRC specific) are greyed out.

I am trying it on regular NTSC signals coming of regular cable out of the wall....any help is appreciated.

Originally posted by ssabripo
I have the KDF-55XS955....can someone please tell me why the DRC functions in the advanced menu are greyed out (unavailable)? I can access some of them, like the white enhancer, noise reduction, etc, but the top 2 (DRC specific) are greyed out.

I am trying it on regular NTSC signals coming of regular cable out of the wall....any help is appreciated.
There are two reasons why the DRC functions would be unavailable. You either are receiving a 480p, 720p or 1080i signal (which isn't NTSC), or the Mild Mode is On. If it is the latter, turn Mild Mode to Off and see if the DRC menus are available.

Michael

So far, the SD channels on my 55WF aren't as sharp as they are on my Sammy HLN dlp.... I'm gonna have to play around with the settings to try and improve the pq...

Originally posted by mortenharket
Mine had the exact same packing. I was kinda surprised with Sony packing their stuff this way.

Hmmm...so maybe it's a packing flaw from Sony. I guess I won't go back to GG and complain. I don't know, though. The box top was on backwards (front was back) and the base plugs were missing. I'm thinking it was at least looked at or something by someone at GG. That particular store was redoing their interior and had very few TVs on display, so I'm thinking my TV may have been on display at some point prior to the renovations. They said they only had one 55WF655 in stock...

Given all that, I feel comfortable and fair going back tonight to see what I can do.

Originally posted by mortenharket
LOL...
Well, I never take the covers off of the remotes. I don't even ever touch the controls on my receiver or my DVD player unless absolutely necessary. I hate putting fingerprints on them, especially the LED display glass on the receiver and dvd player. I have seen other people's remotes - greasy and stuff...yuck! We all eat and watch TV at the same time at some point. Messes up the remotes. I hope you didn't think what else the the white spot on the screen could be either...LOL :D

One word: Napkins
Do you have plastic wrap on your sofa as well?

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
There are two reasons why the DRC functions would be unavailable. You either are receiving a 480p, 720p or 1080i signal (which isn't NTSC), or the Mild Mode is On. If it is the latter, turn Mild Mode to Off and see if the DRC menus are available.

Michael

wierd....I have mild OFF, and NTSC, and still greyed out...what gives?

Originally posted by ssabripo
wierd....I have mild OFF, and NTSC, and still greyed out...what gives?
Now, are you sure you are receiving a 480i signal and not something higher? The reason I ask is that some people have reported being able to tune in their digital channels on their cable TV system just by using the HD tuner built into their HDTVs.

If you are certain it is 480i, then there has to be another reason. If you are not certain, press the Display key on the remote and see what the TV thinks it is receiving.

Michael

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
Now, are you sure you are receiving a 480i signal and not something higher? The reason I ask is that some people have reported being able to tune in their digital channels on their cable TV system just by using the HD tuner built into their HDTVs.

If you are certain it is 480i, then there has to be another reason. If you are not certain, press the Display key on the remote and see what the TV thinks it is receiving.

Michael

yeah, I am sure is NTSC....it actually shows up as NTSC as the type when pressing display. When on some of the digital channels when they are broadcasted in non-HD (just regular DTV), it shows as 480i

so is it because it only works on Digital signals, and not analog?

Originally posted by ssabripo
so is it because it only works on Digital signals, and not analog?
Actually, the DRC functions are available for any input that is not 480p, 720p or 1080i, so it would seem it should work for your cable TV input. I wonder if anyone else has tried the DRC functions with an antenna input?

Having played with the 60xs955 myself (and waiting to unpack our 55xs955), I know that the DRC functions are available for DVD players that output 480i through composite, S-Video, and component. The only times they are not available for 480i inputs is when the Mild Mode is On, and if you are using one of the multi-picture functions (Twin View, Freeze or Memory Stick).

What I have noticed is that some of the Advance Video functions are grayed out in Vivid or Standard mode (which is not mentioned anywhere in the xs955 owner's manual). Switching to Pro mode makes all of the Advanced Video functions available.

Try switching to Pro mode and see if the DRC functions become available. If so, then the DRC functions are locked out in Vivid and Standard modes. By habit, I always switched the demo TVs into Pro mode, so maybe that's why I had access to the DRC functions.

Michael

Hmmm...so maybe it's a packing flaw from Sony. I guess I won't go back to GG and complain. I don't know, though. The box top was on backwards (front was back) and the base plugs were missing. I'm thinking it was at least looked at or something by someone at GG.

Huh, Base Plugs?? I'm not sure what you're referring to. I don't have no stinking base plugs.:confused:

My set did not go to any "auto program" screen either. Is this only if you use the cable card or ant input?

Jeff

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
Actually, the DRC functions are available for any input that is not 480p, 720p or 1080i, so it would seem it should work for your cable TV input. I wonder if anyone else has tried the DRC functions with an antenna input?

Having played with the 60xs955 myself (and waiting to unpack our 55xs955), I know that the DRC functions are available for DVD players that output 480i through composite, S-Video, and component. The only times they are not available for 480i inputs is when the Mild Mode is On, and if you are using one of the multi-picture functions (Twin View, Freeze or Memory Stick).

What I have noticed is that some of the Advance Video functions are grayed out in Vivid or Standard mode (which is not mentioned anywhere in the xs955 owner's manual). Switching to Pro mode makes all of the Advanced Video functions available.

Try switching to Pro mode and see if the DRC functions become available. If so, then the DRC functions are locked out in Vivid and Standard modes. By habit, I always switched the demo TVs into Pro mode, so maybe that's why I had access to the DRC functions.

Michael

Yeah, I am usually in Pro mode or standard, but I swithced to Pro when trying the DRC stuff, and still had problems. I am sure I am doing something hokey.

I will double check and report back

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
...and waiting to unpack our 55xs955

Man, I can't believe you still haven't unpacked it! You've got some patience! I remember you saying that you had another TV on the stand where you've want to put the xs, but I would have set it up on it's box or something by now.....

Plus isn't your 30 day clock ticking, in case you need to exchange?

SSAbripo,

I believe if you are receiving signal input over HDMI source feed to HDMI in then DRC is not functional. DRC Mode is not available when watching 480p, 720p and 1080i sources. Also not available when “Mild Mode is on, or when using multi-picture functions (Twin View, Freeze, or Memory Stick). If you are receiving signal input via HDMI source feed it is (maybe) being seen as 480p rendering DRC as not functional.

Originally posted by JeffZX9R
Huh, Base Plugs?? I'm not sure what you're referring to. I don't have no stinking base plugs.:confused:

My set did not go to any "auto program" screen either. Is this only if you use the cable card or ant input?

Jeff

The white, rectangular, plastic plugs that secure the top portion of the box to the lower portion. Those locking plugs were missing. The box was held together by two flimsy plastic straps (thinner than normal) when usually both methods are used. Can't believe I didn't notice that when I was bringing it home. Glad the straps held, otherwise my new set would've gone *splat* because the carrying handles are on the top box. Scary...

I didn't get an auto program screen with any of the three Sonys I tried. I only got that with the Samsung's, I think.

Originally posted by mklaessy
Man, I can't believe you still haven't unpacked it! You've got some patience! I remember you saying that you had another TV on the stand where you've want to put the xs, but I would have set it up on it's box or something by now.....
I guess I'm not pumped up about unpacking the 55xs955 because it was a compromise purchase. While my wife and kid like the TV, if they had their choice we would have gotten the Mits 52725 DLP. But because I saw rainbows, heard the "idle" fan noise (I'm an audio first person!), and saw the screen glare, they didn't want to push me into getting the Mits DLP. Which is too bad because I thought that the 52725 had excellent color and very good black and shadow detail (better than the 55xs955, at least in the stores).

If the new TV were solely my decision for my use, I would have gotten a Panasonic 50" plasma monitor (50PHD7UY). But because my kid is getting XBox soon (burn-in concerns), the whole family prefers standard TV in 4:3 mode (again burn-in concerns), and they would like to watch the TV at times without having to fire up the audio system like in the morning before school (no speakers), I decided it was too much trouble.

Don't get me wrong, the 55xs955 is a good looking TV. But the 55xs955 is a very wide TV which limits our placement options in the room. It is also my opinion that it isn't in the same league as the Mits DLP for black and shadow detail resolution, and I hope I don't come to regret this purchase if I can't make the 55xs955 approach the 52725 in this regard.

Sorry about the vent.

Michael

But the 55xs955 is a very wide TV which limits our placement options in the room.

That's what's killing me right now. I just measured my entertainment center (not accurately) which has a bridge that extends to accomodate a large TV. I'm looking at ~61" width which is 1" shy of the TV. I'll be really upset if I can't get a great TV because of the darn width. :(

Crogenix,

Mine only had straps as well. I haven't seen one with these plugs you're talking about. I'll look at Fry's tomorrow. They have their new sets setting in an open area where you can see the boxes.

No auto program huh? I was just going by the manual, and there it appears to say that this will happen on first time power up. I guess not.

That's what's killing me right now. I just measured my entertainment center (not accurately) which has a bridge that extends to accomodate a large TV. I'm looking at ~61" width which is 1" shy of the TV. I'll be really upset if I can't get a great TV because of the darn width.

You could get the 55WF if you don't need the extra HDMI in. It's only 57" wide. My 60" is right at 62" wide.

Jeff

Just pulled the trigger on the KDF55WF655 from CC after dumping the Hitachi VS810.

Thank you for all the contributers to this thread for assisting in making my decision.

Originally posted by phussary
Just pulled the trigger on the KDF55WF655 from CC after dumping the Hitachi VS810.
I wish you better luck than you had with the vs810. I recall reading your posts when my wife and I were looking at the 50vs810 and 50vx915 (almost pulled the trigger on the 50vx915!). While no one seems to be producing a near flawless LCD or DLP RPTV from a QC standpoint these days, the new Hitachi LCDs seem to have more problems than most, problems that are correctable only by swapping out for a new TV.

Michael

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
I wish you better luck than you had with the vs810.

Thanks Michael... The Sony will be delivered tomorrow when they pick up the Hitachi. After reading a lot of posts and viewing the unit myself I am not concerned about the picture quality or any green problems... what I am afraid of is dead pixels which some owners have reported. I also noticed it myself on a 50" Sony at Tweaters. I have to admit none of the Hitachi units that I have seen had any dead pixels.

Have you had a chance to unpack/connect your unit yet?

Peter

Havn't made a post on this thread but think i have read ever post. Wanted to thank everyone on this thread for all the info. I decided on the 60XS955 and ready to move in now with this unit.

Next Step now is How to SETUP (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=477607) the E-center.:)

Originally posted by NickFoley
Press the menu button. Go to channels. Scroll down to Show/Hide channels. Select program and you should be able to achieve what you want.

I tried this but the channel isn't even listed as an option to hide/show. It may be important to point out that I am trying to do this with digital channels through OTA. For example, 44.1 has a very strong signal but doesn't get detected through the "hour long" setup. This makes navigating/surfing rather difficult. I've got to be missing something here.

Originally posted by phussary
Have you had a chance to unpack/connect your unit yet?
Peter,

It's still boxed up. We've already killed 7 days out of our 30 day return window. My biggest concerns right now are where are we going to put this very wide TV in our room, and what will we be using for our new TV and audio stands.

My wife and 11 year-old figured that purchasing the TV now would speed up the process in determining the answers to the above questions. They were wrong! :(

Michael

I don't know how you do it Michael... That would be out of the box so quickly at my house! :)

I understand you feeling of compromise. I went back and forth on what TV to get for quite a while. But this Sony truly is a great set. I can't wait for mine to finally come in!

Originally posted by JeffZX9R
You could get the 55WF if you don't need the extra HDMI in. It's only 57" wide. My 60" is right at 62" wide.

Jeff

Well I don't need the extra HDMI input now, but I'm sure I will in the future. That's why I wanted to get this set along with it's better picture control. I have an XBOX and who knows XBOX2 may have HDMI, so then I would need 2. I could get a switch but I wanted to avoid that.

Is there a way of going directly to Video 5 without passing thru 1 to 4 first?

Originally posted by Kaef
Is there a way of going directly to Video 5 without passing thru 1 to 4 first?
Yes, there is. I don't remember the exact heading it's listed under in the Menu function, but it has something to do with naming the inputs. There is an option in that mode to turn off that input. Check out your manual or mess around with the Menu settings.

Originally posted by Kaef
Is there a way of going directly to Video 5 without passing thru 1 to 4 first?
If Video 1 thru 4 are inactive, you can go into the setup menus where you can label the video inputs. Setting the label for a video input to "skip" means you will not see that input when you press the TV/Video button on the remote or the TV. If you ever add something to a "skipped" input, you will need to go back into the setup menus and give that input a label other than "skip".

If you are talking about directly accessing a particular input, I don't think it can be done with the stock remote. But maybe a programmable remote with discrete codes can do it.

Michael

Radius360 and Michael
Thanks so much. It worked.

Originally posted by Kaef
Is there a way of going directly to Video 5 without passing thru 1 to 4 first?

On my old Sony TV I seem to recall that you could go directly to a video input by first pressing the TV/Video button and then the number of the input you wanted. I cannot remember if you had to keep the TV/Video depressed while pressing the number. You may want to give that a try. -- In a few more hours I will be getting my TV and I will try it out.

Update:
Sorry - I was wrong, the remote that had this function was my sony universal programmable remote.

Well after reading this forum religiously I just purchased a 60XS955. I did a lot of research and viewed it at several b&m's before biting the bullet. I have had it home for over a week and overall I think the pq is amazing but I am extremely bothered by the dreaded SSE (silk screen effect) I have read about on this forum. I see it on white or other bright scenes. The strange thing is that I didn't seem to notice this when viewing it at stores. Some details are that I have my set on a table temporarily that is about 28" high, and I sit about 13' away. I went to reduced lamp settings and changed some other settings to no avail. I'm wondering if anyone else that has suffered this same dreaded viewing anomaly has found a solution that has worked for them. Or is this just a byproduct of the protective coating on the screen? Does the WF also have this issue? I really love this set, but I'm not sure if I'll be able to get accustomed to this. The other TV on my list was a Toshiba DLP which I may need to revisit if I can't solve this problem.

Thanks,

Mark

Originally posted by Krynsky
Well after reading this forum religiously I just purchased a 60XS955. I have had it home for over a week and overall I think the pq is amazing but I am extremely bothered by the dreaded SSE (silk screen effect) I have read about on this forum.

I'm thinking about getting this model or the 55".

I think I know what you are describing, but can you elaborate? What have you used to calibrate? Also, can you comment on the fan noise?

After months of deliberation, I was ready to finally pull the trigger on the the 55xs955. I wanted a 60" but the 60xs was too wide (needed <=63" width) because the stupid speaker ears. As I was finishing up the transaction the owner walks by and tell him why I bought the 55 vs the 60. He asked if I would be interested in a great deal on a new xbr60, "it is the exact same as the xs except the xbr is more expensive. I of course said "hell yeah". And walked out with the xbr for $3900 matching stand for $320 & 5yr extend for $199.

Once i got home and looked on the sony site, the xbr has dvi (1 only) vs the xs hdmi (2 which is more intriguing with the upgrade of my dvd player coming soon).

Here is the question: I know I got a great deal on the xbr but what else did I miss other than the inputs? Is the xbr really a superior set to the xs? Will I miss the 2 hdmi's?

Thanks for your responses.

Confused.

Originally posted by Krynsky
I am extremely bothered by the dreaded SSE (silk screen effect) I have read about on this forum. I see it on white or other bright scenes....

....Or is this just a byproduct of the protective coating on the screen? Does the WF also have this issue? Thanks, Mark

I know exactly what you're talking about. I have the 55WF and can't seem to get far enough away from the TV to NOT see the effect. I think you were right on the mark when you asked about it being a byproduct of the protective coating on the screen. I think that's exactly what it is.

I made up my mind that I liked the TV enough otherwise to not take it back. While I try to keep my mind off seeing the fixed panel noise, or whatever we should call it, I always do see it on bright backgrounds/white shirts, etc. I'm training myself to just accept it and try to 'lose' myself in the awesome parts of the picture. Plus, this being my 3rd diff TV, it was either keep it and enjoy what it had to offer or just be done all together. I'd suggest keeping your 60XS around right up till your return period runs up and see if you can get past the annoyance and enjoy all else the TV has to offer in terms of pic quality. If you can't, take it back and try the Tosh.

The 60" XBR doesn't have an internal HD tuner so you can't tune OTA digital and HD channels...unless you have an additional STB tuner. The XBR is also missing the cablecard slot. The tuner is a big deal to me since my cable company doesn't carry most of the major networks but I can easily get them in HD for free using the internal tuner of my 42WE. I believe you get a 2-year warranty with the XBR oppsed to 1-year for the XS...but you paid for an extended warranty so I guess it doesn't matter.

Originally posted by Muser_1


Here is the question: I know I got a great deal on the xbr but what else did I miss other than the inputs? Is the xbr really a superior set to the xs? Will I miss the 2 hdmi's?

Thanks for your responses.

Confused.

I was watching Hidalgo (widescreen version) last night on DVD. My DVD player is a Pioneer 525 connected through componentto my 55XS. It outputs at 480i only. At the top and bottom of the picture, next to the black bars, there were 2 lines which were very bright and a little distracting. If the image was black (only black) at the edge of the screen, the lines were gone.

Is this "normal?" Is it related to the DVD itself, the player (non-progressive) or the TV? Should I be worried? Do I just need a newer DVD player?

Thanks, Chris

Mark,
I too recently received the 60xs955 and do not have any perceptible SSE.
I sit about 9' away. I'm mentioning this because it might be another issue.
Try a poll of XS owners.
Jim

Originally posted by DaverJ


I would love to hear a follow-up to this- I'm so worried I'm going to be disappointed with a loud fan no matter what model I buy... :(


Circuit City came and replaced my 55WF655 which had what I thought was too loud of a fan. Unfortunately the replacement also makes enough noise that I here it as a background hum when I watch TV at a normal volume. When I mute the TV I can hear the fan from 15 to 20 feet away.

Maybe it is just me, I am going from a CRT which had no fan, but I don't think my TV should emit a noticeable hum.


My original TV was dated September the new one is October. Also as with the first TV, other than an initial slightly louder noise when the machine is first turned on, the fan noise is constant until it stops a minute of so after the TV is turned off.

At this point I am not sure what to do.

Originally posted by bruce24
Circuit City came and replaced my 55WF655 which had what I thought was too loud of a fan. Unfortunately the replacement also makes enough noise that I here it as a background hum when I watch TV at a normal volume. When I mute the TV I can hear the fan from 15 to 20 feet away.

Maybe it is just me, I am going from a CRT which had no fan, but I don't think my TV should emit a noticeable hum.


My original TV was dated September the new one is October. Also as with the first TV, other than an initial slightly louder noise when the machine is first turned on, the fan noise is constant until it stops a minute of so after the TV is turned off.

At this point I am not sure what to do.

I never hear the fan on mine and I have the volume at around 6 or 7 normally, I can barely hear it after the set is turned off.
I sit about 10 feet away.

On all of these tv's that have fans built in to them I have observed that to one degree or another there is a sound of some type ie 'hum' emitted as a result. Perhaps room placement (near a wall or away from a wall, in a corner or not in a corner) will play a role in how loud the fan noise becomes. I find that with my xs955 I can certainly hear the fan hum if I really try to pay attention to it, but from 9 feet away even at lower volumes I find that I seldom really focus on the hum. It really doesn't detract from the viewing experience. At higher volumes and when using the ht sound system the fan hum is not a factor at all to the enjoyment of the set. Seems that all of these tv's have some tradeoffs... but I've been extremely pleased with my xs955.

Originally posted by Cryogenix
The white, rectangular, plastic plugs that secure the top portion of the box to the lower portion. Those locking plugs were missing. The box was held together by two flimsy plastic straps (thinner than normal) when usually both methods are used. Can't believe I didn't notice that when I was bringing it home. Glad the straps held, otherwise my new set would've gone *splat* because the carrying handles are on the top box. Scary...

I didn't get an auto program screen with any of the three Sonys I tried. I only got that with the Samsung's, I think.

I think your being too critical of the packaging. I just picked up the 55XS955 and it was packed the same way as yours. Those black straps are narrower than some, but they are very strong, better than any metal staple. I brought home 2 VS810s before getting the Sony, the Hitachi's were all packed the same way. The tensile strength of those straps are propably in the range of 200 lbs a piece (As long as they are not torn).

What is wrong with the foam wrap on the set? Was it wrapped like a x-mas present, No. But it did cover the entire set, even the bottom and there was a softer layer of the material over the screen.

When I get too critical of purchases or little details I end up driving myself crazy. Ex. My first Hitachi worked fine but had scratches on the back of the set. So I returned it and the replacement had the green blur problem.

Just my 2cents.

Simple question, are they the same? I have read about both but can not find any specifics about how/if they differ. I see SDE on all LCD and many DLP sets and it does not bother me any more the looking at a plasma, but not sure about the SSE people talk about. Maybe I am better off not knowing. I look for things now that I read about on this forum and I am about paralyzed!! I am beginning to think that ignorance is bliss.

WSorensen--

Originally posted by wsorensen
Simple question, are they the same? I have read about both but can not find any specifics about how/if they differ.
Try here (http://archive2.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=2873578#post2873578) and here (http://www.16nine.com/archives/2004/10/24/hdtv-faq/)

Michael

Originally posted by domer67
I know exactly what you're talking about. I have the 55WF and can't seem to get far enough away from the TV to NOT see the effect. I think you were right on the mark when you asked about it being a byproduct of the protective coating on the screen. I think that's exactly what it is.

I made up my mind that I liked the TV enough otherwise to not take it back. While I try to keep my mind off seeing the fixed panel noise, or whatever we should call it, I always do see it on bright backgrounds/white shirts, etc. I'm training myself to just accept it and try to 'lose' myself in the awesome parts of the picture. Plus, this being my 3rd diff TV, it was either keep it and enjoy what it had to offer or just be done all together. I'd suggest keeping your 60XS around right up till your return period runs up and see if you can get past the annoyance and enjoy all else the TV has to offer in terms of pic quality. If you can't, take it back and try the Tosh.

Errrm... isn't this Screen-Door-Effect rather than Silk Screen? If so, this is caused by the LCD panel itself. You are seeing the gaps around the emitters, which form a grid. You'll notice the effect goes away when you are a good distance from the set. As you move closer, the effect goes away once you're close eniugh to see the actual grid. SDE is found on DLP as well, but to a lesser extent. For me, if i LOOK for SDE, I see it. If I'm not worrying about it, I don't see it. Another tip: Use PRO mode, which softens the picture to something more natural (come on, real life isn't in Vivid mode! Do you need to use sunglasses to look at someone wearing a white shirt?). With the softer image, your eyes will focus on a point "IN" the picture as opposed to "ON" the screen.

Originally posted by wsorensen
Simple question, are they the same? I have read about both but can not find any specifics about how/if they differ. I see SDE on all LCD and many DLP sets and it does not bother me any more the looking at a plasma, but not sure about the SSE people talk about. Maybe I am better off not knowing. I look for things now that I read about on this forum and I am about paralyzed!! I am beginning to think that ignorance is bliss.

WSorensen--

Ignorance IS bliss... but price-guarantees are sublime!

Originally posted by rmcewan
Errrm... isn't this Screen-Door-Effect rather than Silk Screen?...Another tip: Use PRO mode, which softens the picture to something more natural (come on, real life isn't in Vivid mode! Do you need to use sunglasses to look at someone wearing a white shirt?). With the softer image, your eyes will focus on a point "IN" the picture as opposed to "ON" the screen.

No SDE & SSE aren't the same...If you look at the links provided by Michael above you will find good posts listing the differences.

I can see SDE if I am really close to the set but at a distance it isn't a problem for me. SSE on the other hand is ocurring regardless of distance for me. Also, it doesn't improve considerably when using Pro mode. I will be visiting several b&m's to see if this occurs on the xs there and verify I was just oblvivious to it during the shopping process. If I do still see it I will then observe if I see it on the DLP's...I really like the Sony and want to keep it but only time will tell if I can live with this effect...I wish I could tune it out...

Originally posted by Krynsky
.........SSE on the other hand is ocurring regardless of distance for me. Also, it doesn't improve considerably when using Pro mode.

Same with me. Personally, I also see this on every LCD I look at in every store - to some degree or another. Sometimes I think ambient lighting can appear to diminish it, as in the brighter it is in the store, the less it's noticed. Pro mode can diminish it only a tad. Happily, on a lot of things, like football games and movies, it's not always something my eyes see. If you are succeptible to seeing this effect, don't even try watching a hockey game though...all that white ice filling the screen!:D

Originally posted by Krynsky
No SDE & SSE aren't the same...If you look at the links provided by Michael above you will find good posts listing the differences...

Hmmm. Some of the definitions listed there range from slightly dubious to obviously vague or even misleading, but the explanations of SDE and SSE seem at least half-assed right. Who really knows?

It appears that the concensus on what SDE is is pretty solid, but I think there is a lot of confusion as to what some of us are seeing and whether it is one or the other, or something else entirely. I know I'm not ready to place any bets yet.

SDE is based on pixel size vs viewing distance, and is a fixed limitation that is more noticeable in bright areas, less so in dark areas, that can't be tweaked out electronically. But I'm not sure if that is what I am seeing. I am also not sure why DLP would suffer less, unless the timeshare aspect of the light prevents that. I am pretty sure that is NOT what some are referring to as possibly SDE. For instance, if the effect does not diminish with distance, or does vary with content (SD but not HD, for instance) then it is probably something other than SDE, that seems to be pretty evident.

I can't distinguish pixels or scan lines until I am about 18" away from my 60XS, but I see two artifacts from about 7.5 ft. away. The first is probably SDE, as it does seem to be related to the fixed pixels and seems to increase as you get closer. It also only appears in bright areas of the picture. If there is a white, flat area, for instance, I will begin to distinguish a rainbow of colors (very different from DLP rainbow effect) not gradually ramping from one shade to the other, but as if I can distinguish individual red, blue, and green pixels rather than flat white, even from 7 ft away. It looks like when you are looking through a window and there is a tiny film of moisture on it that acts like millions of tiny prisms breaking the light into different colors. It is infrequent and not really that distracting, but it is there, and it affects HD and SD alike.

The other one is probably SSE, and affects only SD, and does NOT diminish with distance, and is aggravated by motion. It is also more distracting, and honestly looks more like a SDE than what truly probably is SDE, ironically enough, as it seems to be what you would see if the camera were panning past an open window screen. I think this is an artifact created by the DRC, that is sometimes better sometimes worse, depending on the quality of the source SD material and how well or poorly the DRC does its thing and the resultant amount of artifacting from that. It also seems that this is tweakable in the DRC settings to a limited extent.

But those are minor quibbles. Its still a lot more tolerable than the motion artifacts I see very plainly on DLP, and can't see at all on my 60XS.

Well I made my rounds to several stores today and viewed the 60XS a WF and a Toshiba DLP and all supplied my version of SSE while viewing them. Strangely enough, this is a sigh of relief for me. I'm sure I will grow to be accustomed to the SSE and will bother me less from now on...now on to picking a tv stand (2 bush stands are looking very promising, and then an upscaling hdmi dvd player (either the Panny S97 or the Sony 975)...decisions...decisions...

Mark

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
Peter,

It's still boxed up. We've already killed 7 days out of our 30 day return window. My biggest concerns right now are where are we going to put this very wide TV in our room, and what will we be using for our new TV and audio stands.

My wife and 11 year-old figured that purchasing the TV now would speed up the process in determining the answers to the above questions. They were wrong! :(

Michael

Michael,
I recently bought the 55XS and am more than pleased with the TV and stand (TechCraft PTV582) I found the stand at Circuit City and they pricematched their online deal at the time - $60 off. I set the middle shelf at it's lowest height which allows me to place my Denon Receiver and Klipsch center speaker on the middle shelf and the Sony DVP-NS975V DVD player, Comcast HD DVR and XBOX on the slim lower shelf. I would say just go for it and place the TV in the first place you can think of. The TV is only 105 lbs and is very easy to move as there are handles built into the frame of the TV so if you end up wanting to move it later it is not a big deal.

Originally posted by 71intheworks
Michael,
I recently bought the 55XS and am more than pleased with the TV and stand (TechCraft PTV582) ...
Thanks for the suggestion, but stands with glass shelves are out.

Michael

These new Grand Wega sets (WF,WE.XS & XBR) all have Digital Reality Creation™ (DRC) Multifunction V1 feature that replaces the signal’s NTSC waveform with near-HD equivalent by digital mapping processing. I understand the DRC Palette option lets you customize the level of detail (Reality) and smoothness (Clarity) to create a customized picture that is optimized for signal quality, viewing conditions and personal preference. My question is once you have fine tuned the Analog SD signal using the DRC palette does the TV automatically (seamlessly) switch to HD (blocking the DRC palette) when an HD signal is detected? Or do you manually have to change a video mode to ones that has been tweaked to HD?

PS: Michael either set the TV up or return it for one you are sure fits the room. How hard can a life altering, sleep depriving, ulcer causing, nerve racking decision like that really be?

Originally posted by Mtnmike
My question is once you have fine tuned the Analog SD signal using the DRC palette does the TV automatically (seamlessly) switch to HD (blocking the DRC palette) when an HD signal is detected? Or do you manually have to change a video mode to ones that has been tweaked to HD?
The DRC functions only work on 480i sources. For all HD (720p, 1080i) and 480p sources, these functions are bypassed automatically. In fact, when a non-480i signal is present, the DRC functions are grayed out (meaning you can't change them).

Michael

Thanks! That what I thought, but I wasn't certain if they were automatically bypassed when an HD signal is detected. I appreciate the quick response.

I would love to see a discussion of the DRC settings and what works for some of us. I have cable and digital cable and have pushed some of the settings to try to optimise the standard definition settings.

What has worked best for you?

Originally posted by Mtnmike
PS: Michael either set the TV up or return it for one you are sure fits the room. How hard can a life altering, sleep depriving, ulcer causing, nerve racking decision like that really be?
I guess you added this comment after my last response. Believe me, I hear ya!

I think we have found a TV stand that may work for our family room (odd layout) with the 55xs955. Unfortunately, the week or so it has taken us to find a decent stand has given me the time to reconsider the Mits 52725 DLP, which would be easier to place in the room. So, once again I am going through the pros and cons of both. I get a full refund if I don't open the 55xs955 box. Opening the box means store credit and they don't carry the Mits.

BTW, what height stands are 55xs955, 60xs955, and 55WF655 owners using for their TVs? I know that you are suppose to strive for a stand that puts the TV's midpoint right at eye level, but that would be a really low stand. I would imagine that most owners would have the TV midpoint above eye level, but if so, by how much?

Michael

20 inch tall X 58 inch wide X 20 inch deep stand works great. Perfect fit for centered at eye level while seated. CC has them for $299

mtnmike - what model is that? i had ordered the ztech from cc, but they are discontinuing that model and i might not get one.

Try this link: Stand For KDF55WF655 (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Tech-Craft-DLP--and-Flat-Panel-TV-Stand--PTV582-/sem/rpsm/oid/95081/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do)

Circuit City

Tech Craft DLP™ and Flat Panel TV Stand (PTV582)
THC PTV582 • 58" TV stand
• Glass shelves
• Flat-panel compatible • Silver finish
• DLP™ compatible
• Holds up to 250 lbs.
. Dimensions: 20 " x 58" x 20"
. Weight 120.0 lbs

Is anyone else here using an upscaling dvd player yet? If so, which one? Has anyone compared the Bravo and Momitsu custom resolutions against other players that only do 720p and 1080i? I resently purchased the sony 975v and while it gave me a subtle improvement over my old jvc progressive player, I am wondering if one of the other player would be better since it would send the exact resolution to the 55WF. Thanks in advance.

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
BTW, what height stands are 55xs955, 60xs955, and 55WF655 owners using for their TVs? I know that you are suppose to strive for a stand that puts the TV's midpoint right at eye level, but that would be a really low stand. I would imagine that most owners would have the TV midpoint above eye level, but if so, by how much?


The height of the stand was one of my biggest problems. We bought a $2K cabinet which included a 34" high tv table. It was only then I went looking for a TV to fit the cabinet. This was one of the main reasons I liked the Hitachi because the screen bottom was about 2" above the table top. The 55WF655 is a good 8" above the top which puts my sitting eye level at the bottom of the screen. I sit around 10' away from the TV and have not noticed any degredation. Even when lying down on the sofa the picture looks great. Granted that I would have liked to have the table a bit lower but considering the circumstances I am very happy.

I am using Samsung HD941, via HDMI, PQ is amazing!

zoro,

Have you compared to a different dvd player? If so which one? I test the Sony 975v agianst my old jvc vx-s502. WIth the sony at 1080i(w/hdmi), I can only see a suttle difference between it and my old player(480i via component). While I like the fact that the sony has more features, and actually plays my vcds, i'm considering taking it back and getting the momitsu or bravo, just don't know if it is worth the hassle.

Originally posted by phussary
The height of the stand was one of my biggest problems. We bought a $2K cabinet which included a 34" high tv table. It was only then I went looking for a TV to fit the cabinet. This was one of the main reasons I liked the Hitachi because the screen bottom was about 2" above the table top. The 55WF655 is a good 8" above the top which puts my sitting eye level at the bottom of the screen. I sit around 10' away from the TV and have not noticed any degredation.
34"? I would have figured that to be too high, at least before tonight. We took a trip to our local Andersons TV in Santa Clara after dinner to look for a stand (still!) when we noticed that they had the Sony 55xs955 in the back of the store sandwiched between the Mits 52725 and 62525 DLPs. The 55xs955 was on a TV stand that was 31.5" high, yet sitting in a low recliner 8.5' away, the picture was very bright with very little grain to it (1080i store loop). I was thinking that a 20-24" stand would be too high, but maybe not.

BTW, we finally got to compare the Mits 52725 DLP directly to the 55xs955. Our initial impression, after some quick calibrations (we've played with both for HOURS in the past!), was that the 55xs955 had better overall color, better white (or less white crush?), and less motion artifacts. The 55xs955 leaned a bit toward a red push, while the 52725 had an obvious greenish tone (screen?) and some haloing that my wife picked up. I also could hear the fans on the 52725 from over 5' away, while I needed to be behind the screen to hear the Sony's fans.

Now, for the surprise. Initially, the 52725 had better black and shadow details than the 55xs955, which has always been our concern. With the two TVs to compare, I went back into the Advanced Video settings of the 55xs955 and tried something different. I set the Black Corrector to Off (instead of Low or Medium), and set the Gamma Corrector to Low (instead of Medium or High), and we noticed an immediate improvement. Blacks were good, but the shadow details were better, definitely approaching the Mits DLP in this respect. It was at that point that my wife and I realized we had the right TV for us.

Now, we just need our stand. We're thinking Salamander TV40 Video Stand (http://www.mander.com/archetype/archetype.jsp?modelbase=tv40). We have a slight slope to our floor (under carpet) that needs to be addressed, and the spikes that come with this stand should help us.

Michael

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann

Now, for the surprise. Initially, the 52725 had better black and shadow details than the 55xs955, which has always been our concern. With the two TVs to compare, I went back into the Advanced Video settings of the 55xs955 and tried something different. I set the Black Corrector to Off (instead of Low or Medium), and set the Gamma Corrector to Low (instead of Medium or High), and we noticed an immediate improvement. Blacks were good, but the shadow details were better, definitely approaching the Mits DLP in this respect. It was at that point that my wife and I realized we had the right TV for us.

Now, we just need our stand. We're thinking Salamander TV40 Video Stand (http://www.mander.com/archetype/archetype.jsp?modelbase=tv40). We have a slight slope to our floor (under carpet) that needs to be addressed, and the spikes that come with this stand should help us.

Michael

Michael,

After my very disappointing experience with the Hitachi I am ever so happy with my Sony 55WF655. No matter how much time you spend in stores looking at them the real test is in your home and you already have it.

The Sony got delivered Friday evening, two nights ago, and I have been enjoying every minute... not enough time to get away and express my opinion yet.

My experience with both the Mits and Hitachi is that they may have excellent blacks but the whole picture is very dark, they do not give you the opportunity to adjust the set to your brighter environment as Sony does unless you get into the service menu.

Open that box and enjoy.

Peter

What is the best way to set-up DD and Analog sound with Direct TV DVR STB and a receiver. I was told to run the Optical Digital Cable directly from the STB to the receiver and analog audio from STB to TV to Receiver. Does this sound right? And if so what menu settings in the 55WF655 would be best selected?

If you only use the receiver for audio, you only need to use the optical output. If you use the TV occasionally without the receiver, connect the audio cables to the TV also. You shouldn't need analog to the receiver unless you plan on burning to DVD or, shall I say it, tape something.

Michael M,

I have the SONY 55XS and it is sitting on a StudioTech stand (no glass).

Here is the link: http://www.studiotech.com/jsp/productDetail.jsp?prodID=5

I have the PS3 B/B. I can attach a picture of my setup later (after I get home from work).

The stand came w/ spikes and adjustable casters so you can adjust the level

Tim

Originally posted by timick1
I have the SONY 55XS and it is sitting on a StudioTech stand (no glass).

Here is the link: http://www.studiotech.com/jsp/productDetail.jsp?prodID=5

I have the PS3 B/B. I can attach a picture of my setup later (after I get home from work).

The stand came w/ spikes and adjustable casters so you can adjust the level
Tim,

We were previously looking at the StudioTech stands for our audio equipment (which we still need to get), so we have been looking at them for the TV. The adjustable carpet spikes that you mentioned would probably solve our slight dip in the floor.

I think we are down to one of the StudioTech component series racks (http://www.studiotech.com/jsp/productSelection.jsp?type=racks) or the Salamander TV40 I mentioned before. All have adjustable spikes.

Michael

Regarding stands, I just got this for my KDF-55WF655...it looks fine, and it's $60.

(www).ikea-usa.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10101&storeId=12&productId=42127&langId=-1&parentCats=10104*10174

the ikea "stormark"

aaronwt wrote: If you only use the receiver for audio, you only need to use the optical output. If you use the TV occasionally without the receiver, connect the audio cables to the TV also. You shouldn't need analog to the receiver unless you plan on burning to DVD or, shall I say it, tape something.
____________________________________________________________

Aaron,

Thanks! All my TV listening will be through the Onkyo receiver. No DVD burning planned at this time or taping. So I will run the Optical Digital Cable from the DirecTV DVR satellite receiver to the Onkyo receiver, run component from the Satellite receiver to the TV, turn the TV speakers off and not worry about running analog RCA red/white from TV to the Onkyo receiver. Is that correct?

I also am going to run Optical Digital out from my Sony NS975V DVD player directly to the Onkyo receiver's second Optical digital in and HDMI-out from the player to the TV HDMI-in (Turn HDMI audio out in the DVD menu to off) thus placing all DD and digital sound conversion directly to the Onkyo receiver and all video directly to the TV. Does this also sound correct?

Originally posted by hdiesel1977
Is anyone else here using an upscaling dvd player yet? If so, which one? Has anyone compared the Bravo and Momitsu custom resolutions against other players that only do 720p and 1080i? I resently purchased the sony 975v and while it gave me a subtle improvement over my old jvc progressive player, I am wondering if one of the other player would be better since it would send the exact resolution to the 55WF. Thanks in advance.
I'm using the Zenith DVB318 over component. The 720p/1080i upconversions are a definite improvement over the 480p of the unit and my other older DVD players. I haven't yet tried the DVI output because others on the list have mentioned that the DVI to HDMI conversion doesn't seem to work with this TV and DVD combo.

Scottlr could you post a picture, or pictures, of your tv on the stormark? We just purchased the 55wf (for a crazy good deal from circuit city, must of caught them at just the right time) and we like our other ikea stuff. The thing that worries me is that the base has been said in this thread to be 39.25 inches wide, and the stormark is said to be 39.75 but it looks like the back of it tapers in and so I was wondering if there is any overhang?

We already have the

http://www.ikea-usa.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10101&storeId=12&productId=14237&langId=-1&parentCats=10104*10174

(KAXÅS) unit as a coffee table but we are going to try and use it as the stand for a little bit, it is 38.25 inches wide, so not quite wide enough but we are thinking that the only part that will over hang is the middle part of the base that seems to diamond out.

Ikea stuff is really cool though and pretty reasonably priced.

I bought the Toshiba upconverting DVD/VCR combo w/HDMI and watched it for a a few days, but decided to return it. When looking at a Sony progressive scan DVD over component, vs. the upconverting via HDMI, there was really not much, if any, difference. At least not noticeable to me. Some of that may be due to the "low end" range of the Toshiba, which is considerably cheaper than the Sony upconverter.

I have the KDF-55WF655 with just one HDMI port, so I decided to use a DVI <-> HDMI cable from my VOOM STB over that instead. HD TV at 720p or 1080i just seems to have "more info" than an upconverted DVD, so that seems to make sense to me. By more info I just mean native, as I know the upconverters are sending either 720p or 1080i, but they have to "generate" that info.

The Toshiba can upconvert on component but only for non-copy protected DVD's, so it kind of seemeed pointless to keep it, so I returned it for a Sony prog scan DVD/VCR combo and saved $50.

If I had 2 HDMI ports on the TV, I likely would have tried the Sony upconverting DVD player. But for now, I'll just wait for HD DVD, and then an affordable receiver with 2HDMI inputs or an HDMI switch. :-)

/Sean

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
I guess you added this comment after my last response. Believe me, I hear ya!

I think we have found a TV stand that may work for our family room (odd layout) with the 55xs955. Unfortunately, the week or so it has taken us to find a decent stand has given me the time to reconsider the Mits 52725 DLP, which would be easier to place in the room. So, once again I am going through the pros and cons of both. I get a full refund if I don't open the 55xs955 box. Opening the box means store credit and they don't carry the Mits.

BTW, what height stands are 55xs955, 60xs955, and 55WF655 owners using for their TVs? I know that you are suppose to strive for a stand that puts the TV's midpoint right at eye level, but that would be a really low stand. I would imagine that most owners would have the TV midpoint above eye level, but if so, by how much?

Michael

Just got the Bush Plama/DLP TV Console(vs1358801) from CC (CC online has it for $209!) to go with the 55xs955 and it is the perfect height. I do recommend you have them build it for the additional $70 b/c it is a bear to do yourself.

I think putting stuff together is half the fun in getting new stuff

Seanb724 "If I had 2 HDMI ports on the TV, I likely would have tried the Sony upconverting DVD player. But for now, I'll just wait for HD DVD, and then an affordable receiver with 2HDMI inputs or an HDMI switch."



There is an HDMI switcher out there if you can afford it that solves this problem: Gefen HDMI Switch (http://www.gefen.com/kvm/product.jsp?prod_id=2208)

It's been a few weeks since I've checked in on the thread. Has anyone tried the ND filter mod on the GWIV yet to help with black levels? I'm 95% sure that I'll be picking up a 55WF655 in the next couple weeks and the one thing that I 'd like to fix most is the black level. I've had my 42WE655 for about 3 months now and it's the only thing that bothers me at all.

Originally posted by Mtnmike

Aaron,

Thanks! All my TV listening will be through the Onkyo receiver. No DVD burning planned at this time or taping. So I will run the Optical Digital Cable from the DirecTV DVR satellite receiver to the Onkyo receiver, run component from the Satellite receiver to the TV, turn the TV speakers off and not worry about running analog RCA red/white from TV to the Onkyo receiver. Is that correct?

I also am going to run Optical Digital out from my Sony NS975V DVD player directly to the Onkyo receiver's second Optical digital in and HDMI-out from the player to the TV HDMI-in (Turn HDMI audio out in the DVD menu to off) thus placing all DD and digital sound conversion directly to the Onkyo receiver and all video directly to the TV. Does this also sound correct?

Perfect! I just did this a few days ago, hooking my new DirecTV HD receiver video to the KDF-55WF655 with component, and audio with optical digital to my Yamaha RV1200 receiver. The new Sony DVD player, (NS975V), runs video to the set via HDMI to HDMI, and audio to the receiver via digital optical. Works perfect, and Shrek 2's Gingerbread Man on steriods never sounded, or looked better!

Regarding the Gefen HDMI switch:

Yeah, that is much cheaper than any HDMI capable receiver at this point, but since I didn't really think an upconverting DVD was buying me that much more than progressive scan, I figured I'd wait for HD DVD. At that time, I'll decide between an HDMI switch vs. a receiver. I'm hoping receiver prices come down by that point. But I'll likely end up buying a receiver before then, so I'll likely end up with the switch.

/Sean

p.s. I would have gotten the XS vs. the WF to get that 2nd HDMI port, but the extra width was just too much for me.

/Sean

I'm hoping between now and next summer the HD/DVR (Directv receivers) come down in price or they offer an incentive price to current users down from the $999.00 they currently want. If not I may opt for an HD receiver and skip the TIVO part. Hate to do it but the current HD-DVR price (if it holds) is way too much.

I have the Sony NS975V upscaling (up-converting) DVD player and am waiting for the 55WF655 to be delivered as soon as we finish construction on the basement remodel 12/15. I can hardly wait to get everything set-up. Did all pre-wire for speakers ETC.

I have read alot about the 975V combined with these Grand Wega IV's and everything I've read indicates they work well together with noticeable results. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=465186&perpage=20&pagenumber=1 Since we are a year from true HD-DVD players I'll stay with this decision.

When I do upgrade DirecTV to HD I will probably get that Gefen switch also. I did see one on Ebay that was NIB for $229.00 w/free shipping.

I also looked at the 55XS955. Really liked the additional advanced video tuning and second HDMI with the 55XS955. Really no need for the upgraded internal sound and speakers. For the price difference I settled on the 55WF655. Everything else being the same the WF worked out better on my budget.

WATJAC -

I have a KDF-55WF655 on the Ikea Stormark

I can't post a picture, but from the front it looks perfect - there's about an inch of space on either side of the TV base, the Stormark stand being slightly wider than the base. It looks like it was made for the TV. As the top of the stand tapers back, there is 2-3 inches of overhang on each side, but it won't be noticed at all. It really does look great, and the price is certainly right. Of course, it's not metal, but it is the right color grey, with a duller finish than the base of the set. There's no way you'd regret this. Let me know how it turns out!

Could someone please clarify for me if a KDF-42WE655 has a QAM tuner or not. I know it has the ATSC tuner, it is the QAM that I am interested in knowing about.

thanks

Goblue97,

Why don't you do a search in this thread for "QAM"? Usually in a thread this long the point has been previously addressed. It would appear it does have a QAM tuner. If you do the search you will find several references to QAM like the following concerning the QAM turner: QAM Turner (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=4487732&highlight=qam#post4487732)

Originally posted by Mtnmike
[B]I'm hoping between now and next summer the HD/DVR (Directv receivers) come down in price or they offer an incentive price to current users down from the $999.00 they currently want. If not I may opt for an HD receiver and skip the TIVO part. Hate to do it but the current HD-DVR price (if it holds) is way too much.


Just FYI, but if you have interest in switching to Dish, they've had a major price cut on their HD DVR. I'm hoping VOOM comes out with theirs sometime early next year, but we'll see. At least with VOOM, it always sends SD signal over the s-video and composite ports, so I run s-vid to the Tivo, and that works great, other than locals. While not officially supported, you can make that work as well, though there are some weird aspect issues.

/Sean

Yes, all GWIV models have both ATSC and QAM tuners...as does the 70" XBR

Originally posted by goblue97
Could someone please clarify for me if a KDF-42WE655 has a QAM tuner or not. I know it has the ATSC tuner, it is the QAM that I am interested in knowing about.

thanks

Last week I bought a Samsung 5674 dlp and last night was the first time I seen rainbows during this movie I was watching and it was very distracting and so This TV is going back not just because of rainbows but just don't like the way movies look on this TV. Cartoons and video games and even HD shows look great but movies do not look so good. i'm thinking on getting a KDF-55XS955 I should of went with this one from the get go because this TV look better to me in the showroom and was cheaper with more Bells and whistles. I have a few questions I read all about LCD's and it's drawbacks but haven't read to much about the panels now on the dlp's they sell these saying years to come all you need to do is replace the bulb and you have a new TV Is this statement the same for LCD's? Plus the bulb's for these how much are they are they allot more then the dlp's? Last question does cartoon movies like Monster's Inc look good on lcd's my kids wanted me to ask this question lol? Thank's for any input you all can give.

Originally posted by chad2323
Last question does cartoon movies like Monster's Inc look good on lcd's my kids wanted me to ask this question lol? Thank's for any input you all can give.

I don't have any kids, but Shrek2 looks phenom on my new KDF-55WF655. My neighbor was over the other night, and said he was sending his son over on Christmas morning, as they are giving him that DVD, and he really needed to watch it at my house. ahhhh...., thanks for thinking of me, but your son should be HOME for Christmas! :D

Great set, you won't be disappointed!

Originally posted by Mtnmike
Goblue97,

Why don't you do a search in this thread for "QAM"? Usually in a thread this long the point has been previously addressed. It would appear it does have a QAM tuner. If you do the search you will find several references to QAM like the following concerning the QAM turner: QAM Turner (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=4487732&highlight=qam#post4487732)

Mtnmike,
I guess I just needed further "clarification" as to my specific model. I saw said post and I realize he stated that the WE series had both tuners. I have been trying to figure this whole thing out and just wanted to make sure it applied to all WE models, specifically the one I have.

To further clarify, I am being told that as long as my set has a QAM tuner that I should be able to receive local HD programming through the cable without a STB. This is assuming that the signals are being sent in the clear which from what I understand is the law. This is not happening so I wnated to make sure that my set had a QAM tuner before I started making phone calls to my provider. I found no mention of a QAM tuner in the manual.

Pricing.
Can people share the price they paid for the 55WF655? I don't see many pricing posts on here - are they not allowed? Is there another forum for this that I can't find?
(It'd be cool to have something similar to how Edmunds.com has a forum on "Prices Paid" for different models of cars.)
Thanks.

we aren't allowed but I think I can say I saved almost 800 off the sonystyle.com price on the 55wf655 at circuit city

Okay, thanks for the info watjac.

Wasn't aware of that rule. If people can send a PM that would be great :)

I really like the remote that our 40xbr800 came with and we still have it(sony picked up the tv yesterday) but it doesn't have a wide mode button on it. My girlfriends dad has the 34 inch widescreen and it has almost the same remote but instead of a favorites button it has a wide button. Our 55wf is coming in an hour or so and I'm pretty sure I'm not going to like the remote it comes with and I know our 40xbr800 remote will work for the most part but that wide button is probably pretty handy.

So I was thinking of ordering either the 34xbr960 remote or the 55xs955 remote. Does anyone think their would be a problem doing that I'm pretty sure that it would work without any trouble and I think I read on this forum one time that sony doesn't actually charge a ton for their factory remotes I think the post said something like 10 bucks or some ridiculously low amount compared to what you would think it would cost.

Another thing is I don't have a clue as to how to go about ordering a sony factory remote, and if they will let you buy a factory remote for a tv you don't own?

Quote: To further clarify, I am being told that as long as my set has a QAM tuner that I should be able to receive local HD programming through the cable without a STB. This is assuming that the signals are being sent in the clear which from what I understand is the law. This is not happening so I wnated to make sure that my set had a QAM tuner before I started making phone calls to my provider. I found no mention of a QAM tuner in the manual.
**********
While going tangent to the thread topic, what law are you talking about that requires HD signals be sent in the clear? If that is the case, my local cable company may be in trouble! I can assure you that in my area ALL available HD signals from the local broadcasters are encrypted by the cable company. Could anyone confirm the legality of this?
Fred

Originally posted by FredB
While going tangent to the thread topic, what law are you talking about that requires HD signals be sent in the clear? If that is the case, my local cable company may be in trouble! I can assure you that in my area ALL available HD signals from the local broadcasters are encrypted by the cable company. Could anyone confirm the legality of this?
Fred

the following is copied and pasted from another thread.....

FCC Sec. 76.901 ... OTAs (including digital) must be on the 'basic' tier
quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FCC Sec. 76.901
The basic service tier shall, at a minimum, include all signals of domestic television broadcast stations provided to any subscriber ...
http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/...47cfr76.901.htm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Combined with FCC Sec. 76.630. 'Basic' tier must be unscrambled (analog) / unencrypted (digital) ... barring extenuating circumstances
quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FCC Sec. 76.630
Cable system operators shall not scramble or otherwise encrypt signals carried on the basic service tier.
http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/...47cfr76.630.htm
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The FCC has re-affirmed the current regs state the above.
quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plug and Play ruling:
Section 76.630 generally prohibits encryption of the basic tier
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_publ...CC-03-225A1.pdf
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Broadcast Flag ruling:
Section 76.630 of the Commission’s rules generally prohibits cable operators from “scrambl[ing] or encrypt[ing] signals carried on the basic service tier” without distinguishing between analog and digital service.
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_publ...CC-03-273A1.pdf
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The EFF puts it nicely ...
quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EFF comments to FCC:
Based on our reading of the Commission’s rules, it appears that all basic tier services (whether analog or digital, and including all retransmitted over-the-air broadcasts) must remain unencrypted (i.e. “unscrambled”). The Commission has previously ruled that, at least in the must carry context, both digital and analog broadcast signals must be available in a single, unitary basic tier. The Commission’s rules further provide that all basic tier services must be unencrypted.
http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_publ...CC-03-273A1.pdf

goblue97, thank you for posting all that useful info. It looks like my cable company does carry in the clear each broadcast station's digital "standard definition" signal in addition to the analog. But since the regulation is silent on the HD signal, they are encrypting it. The reason I am hot on this issue is that I recently bought a Sharp Aquos LCD TV with ATSC and QAM tuners. Sure enough, all local stations' digital signals are in the clear, but no HD! This is one of the reasons why I went for CableCARD. I guess there are some cable companies that elect to offer HD locals in the clear, but not ours.

Anyhow, thanks again for the info.

Fred

I JUST GOT BACK FROM Sound Advice and made arrangements on returning the 5674 Samsung and getting the KDF-55XS955. The question I have I was watching a DVD on it the movie was called The Titans's and during the opening scene's when the names of the actors shows up it looked awful. LIKE artifacts all around the name and I notice the DVD picture not being sharp at all. They were using a Sony DVD player and it was hooked up with Monster Component cables. I couldn't adjust anything because they couldn't find the remote for the tv. So the question is is this TV not good for DVd movies or was it a set up problem? They had a HD feed going to it and that looked great but the DVD didn't at all. Plus on these sets do the panels where out or develop dead pixels in time? Thank's for any info you all can give.

Originally posted by chad2323
the names of the actors shows up it looked awful. LIKE artifacts all around the name and I notice the DVD picture not being sharp at all.

Do you know what input the DVD was connected to? I would think that the store is smart enough NOT to use composite, but I hope that they did based on what you described.

I looked behind the set and it looked like it was hooked up to the right spot. I tried 2 DVD's and both looked the same. I'm not to familiar with LCD's and the only drawbacks I here is the blacks and to me they look just as good as the Dlp's so I just want to make sure the Dvd's look good on this set. I'm use to having a Pioneer elite 530 and that set was great no complaints at all.

You will be pleased with the DVD quality - I am sure it was a hook-up problem or maybe they did not have the progressive mode on the player enabled. I have the KDF-55WF655 and DVDs with a progressive DVD player look great. You will only notice the most minor of flaws but you really have to know what you are looking for to see the flaws.

I'm thinking of getting the WF655. The DVD player I have is the Sony NS400D which is not progressive. How bad will DVD's look? I was thinking of going to the 975 with this new TV but I'm not sure if HDMI will warrant yet another $300. What do you all think?

I went from a non-prog Panny to the 975, and it was a pretty good jump. One thing to keep in mind is that it will be closer to $400, as neither the set, nor the 975, comes with the HDMI cable.

you also might have been standing too close to the tv chad2323 you need to stand at least 6 or more feet back

I was probley 8 foot away on the couch they have in front of it. I'm going tonight and bring back the samsung and get the sony so I will be able to check it out tonight. Thank's all for the replies. It seem's like I always end up with a Sony TV.

Originally posted by Stryker412
I'm thinking of getting the WF655. The DVD player I have is the Sony NS400D which is not progressive. How bad will DVD's look? I was thinking of going to the 975 with this new TV but I'm not sure if HDMI will warrant yet another $300. What do you all think?
I've used both the super cheap CyberHome and the upconverting Zenith DVD players with my 42WF655. I have to say that the CyberHome player did pretty well over component, better in my view than the Zenith did with 480p, but the Zenith wins hands down when upconverting to 720p or 1080i (component output).

Pick up the Zenith (DVB318) if you can on Ebay. They're pretty cheap right now and won't cost you an arm and a leg. You should be able to find one at half the cost of the new Sony unit. I'll hold off on the Sony until the prices drop a bit.

I keep reading about lcd's having a screen door effect but when I look at this model KDF-55XS955 I don't see any screen door effect. I even went up close and didn't see it so is this like rainbows in the store you don't see them but when you get it home you do? I just want to make sure this don't crop up down the line like the rainbows did. Plus stuck pixels a few years down the line are these newer models have this problem and is this something to worry about.? Sorry for all the questions don't have much time to read up on this my ride is on the way here. Thank's all for the help.

The reason rainbows are not noticed at first is because it is not usually perceptible through foveal vision. IOW, what you are looking directly at will not display it, but what is seen peripherally may, although we quite often don't actively concentrate on what we see peripherally. For some folks, it eventually becomes evident that they are seeing rainbows out of "the corner" of their eye.

The way to deal with this is to check actively while in the showroom that peripheral vision is OK...concentrate on looking for rainbows peripherally. Or just don't buy DLP, which is the only system that has this problem. SDE is pixel-based, and is not the same problem as rainbows, but it may be less prevalent on DLP than on LCD. I did not see rainbows on DLP, but I did see motion artifacts on DLP that were not apparent on LCD, and SDE seemed minimal to me on the 60 XS from as close as 7 ft., so I settled on that.

Just got my WF60 a couple of days ago. Also own last year's WE42.

First, man, this fan is MUCH louder than on the 42. I'm not entirely happy about it. So, is this a matter of you need a bigger fan for a larger TV? Or might there be an issue.

Second, the WE from last year always (well, when it wasn't suffering from lamp issues ;) ) starts in 3-4 blinks. The WF takes btw 10-11 blinks to start. Again, is that normal for this set, or is this an indication of a (potential) issue?

Third, when I used an external HD tuner on the WE, it locked the "wide" control. When you allow the WF to be the tuner, it appears that you can still adjust the wide options. Is that correct, or am I not really getting an HD signal?

Also, it appears to me that in plain Full mode, some of the faces on a local news broadcast are a little stretched vertically. Just my imagination?

Thanks. I think I love this TV, but I'm still getting used to the huge leap in size.

Rich

you might have your external tuner locked to outputting a 1080i or 720p signal. I set my external tuner to pass through so the tv does all the processing.

Finally decided on a DVD player to go with my 55WF.
I tried mainly upconverting players like the Denon 1910, 2910, the LG 418 and the Sony 975, also the Denon 2900. All were really good compared to my budget player but all had issues that were really apparant. I started thinking it was maybe a problem with the TV.
Also the need to buy a DVD/HDMI cable bumps the price up considerably when you just shelled out hundreds for the player.
Anyway after looking at the DVD Benchmark shootout website and the recomendation by UMR in his original tweaks thread I found a Panasonic XP30.
It doesn't do any upconversion or have DVI or HDMI out but the picture is far better than any of the players listed above at a fraction of the price of some of them. Any fears that there might have been issues with the TV were definately shot down after swithching to this player.
Anyway don't get carried away with all this upconverting stuff and DVI/HDMI outputs. Like UMR says go for a good progressive scan with component outs and you'll be happy.

Arkid, Thanks for upgrading us on this. the Sony scaler takes it up to 788 P so thats good enough. If you change things from 480 P up to 1080 I or 720 P you always have a chance of loosing something.

Originally posted by G.B.
Arkid, Thanks for upgrading us on this. the Sony scaler takes it up to 788 P so thats good enough. If you change things from 480 P up to 1080 I or 720 P you always have a chance of loosing something.

With apologies to those that have already seen it...
480p Component vs 1080i HDMI on Sony 975 to 55WF (http://www.mcewan.biz/480p1080i.jpg)
This is a closeup of the meet-the-parents scence in S***k2.

r

As a possible future 55WF655 owner, I'm wondering if this display has the option for me to use it as the center channel? Save me one hole in my wall and give me a rear center for 6.1!

TIA
Jason

Rmcewan, I have done the UMR teaks on my XBR 950 so I have got good results with 480 P vs the first ups-callers in the past. I will look into the 975 & do some more experimenting. In my case I will need to get a converter to HDMI to DVI. I will PM you on another subject.

Originally posted by rmcewan
With apologies to those that have already seen it...
480p Component vs 1080i HDMI on Sony 975 to 55WF (http://www.mcewan.biz/480p1080i.jpg)
This is a closeup of the meet-the-parents scence in S***k2.

r

What does it look like at 480P with the HDMI? My SDI player through my iScanHD using component outs looks better than that pic with 1080i with HDMI.

Originally posted by aaronwt
What does it look like at 480P with the HDMI? My SDI player through my iScanHD using component outs looks better than that pic with 1080i with HDMI.
Which Sony GWIV LCD RPTV do you own?

Michael

Originally posted by rmcewan
With apologies to those that have already seen it...
480p Component vs 1080i HDMI on Sony 975 to 55WF (http://www.mcewan.biz/480p1080i.jpg)
This is a closeup of the meet-the-parents scence in S***k2.

r

Looks clear to me, but maybe I'm missing something.... :D

I have had my new 60" LCD - RP for almost 30 days and a friend of mine noted that there was a "brighter" light in the bottom middle of the screen.

Come to find out, it is about the size of a half-dollar and has a green tint to it. It is circular in dimension and can only be seen when the brightness is down, which is the way I have it on my DVD input.

Any ideas as to what this might be as it is larger than the pixel problems that I searched for in this forum? My 30 day return policy is up today and after that, I will have to use Best Buy's Service Plan for help then.

Thanks in advace!
AirSeven

I have more experience with front projectors than rear projector TVs, but that sounds a lot like a dust blob (dust on one of the LCD panels) If that's indeed the case, it needs to be cleaned.

Ok.....anyone know if this would be an easy fix for me to do or just return it and take it back?

What do you do if you are going to be leaving the room for like 25 minutes? Is it better to turn the set off or is it better to leave it on? I guess I'm essentially asking if turning the bulb on and off is bad for it. I think its bad with regular bulbs but I dont' really have any reason for thinking that.

wat its easier on the lamp to just leave it on for short times--like a trip to the liquor store for more beer lol--anything over 20 mins or so i turn it off--less, i just leave it on--ex=dinner--a shower-etc--common sense

thats what I figured but wasn't sure. thanks studranger

I have a kdf60wf655 and love the picture however, I apparently have a "Stuck" pixel. Any of you more experienced members been thru this before? Is there a way to reset it? Is it dead? More importantly will sony repair/replace under warranty?:mad:

for just one sony won't replace it. I think sony will replace it if it is 6 or more.

Originally posted by rmcewan
With apologies to those that have already seen it...
480p Component vs 1080i HDMI on Sony 975 to 55WF (http://www.mcewan.biz/480p1080i.jpg)
This is a closeup of the meet-the-parents scence in S***k2.

r

That's all good if you're just comparing your Sony to your Sony.
The picture from a better progressive scan player will be better than the Sony through component at 480P and as good if not better than the Sony through HDMI at 720P or 1080I.
I had the Sony and think the picture from the Panny XP30 is better, even better than the $650 Denon.
Just my opinion though.

Originally posted by aaronwt
What does it look like at 480P with the HDMI? My SDI player through my iScanHD using component outs looks better than that pic with 1080i with HDMI.
How can you say it looks better unless you've compared with your own eyes to the source of which I took the photo -e.g. my TV? You can't compare a 2-inch close-up of the screen digitally photographed and blown-up to 4 or 5 times life size and then shown on your computer screen to something you're looking at with your eyes!! How scientific is that?!??!? The purpose of the photo is to COMPARE A vs. B. That's all the photos can be used for.

________________________________________________________

As a possible future 55WF655 owner, I'm wondering if this display has the option for me to use it as the center channel? Save me one hole in my wall and give me a rear center for 6.1!
________________________________________________________


You wont have a TRUE center channel experience. So I guess the answer is yes if your looking for mixed sound in front and no if you are looking for the Dolby Digital or DTS experience.

If you want accurate DD or DTS sound from your systen through a receiver then you need a center channel which broadcasts the signal designed just for that (center channel). Your TV speakers are more than just the center part of DD or DTS signal.

Here's one for you all and hopefully not to much off topic. Are any of you running one of the new HDTV Digital-VHS (VCR's) player/recorders on you systems? If so what do you think of the playback quality. These are D-VHS VCR, S-VHS- and VHS-compatible HDTV recorders. They are a little pricey although on Ebay you may be able to pick one up for around $300. Sounds to me more like another GIZMO for the HT guy that has it all.

I plagarized some of the following to help those who don’t know:

D-VHS is a digital recording and playback format for high definition material. It's based on the existing 1/2" VHS-sized cassettes we're all used to. A few models of D-VHS player/recorder have been out for a couple years now. JVC apparently is the tech leader in this.

What JVC has done, working with a few studios, is to create a content encryption/security system for this format that will allow the studios to release pre-recorded feature film titles in true high definition quality for use on HDTVs using these player/recorders. This security platform is called D-Theater.

Only D-Theater equipped D-VHS players can play back D-Theater movies on digital video tape up to 1080i. But all D-VHS decks also allow you to record (via MPEG-2 encoding) any high definition broadcasts off the air (the Superbowl for example) as well as current NTSC analog signals. The decks are fully backwards compatible with all existing VHS formats, including S-VHS.

Supposedly what these D-VHS player do better than just about any other device on the market is feed your display device a pristinely beautiful 1080i hi-def signal. As long as you’re in the market for one of the 68 pre-recorded films available on D-VHS, or have your own homemade tapes, the quality of the picture should be breathtaking.

I am curious though if any of you have one and what the playback and PQ is and if they are worth having. Or is this just interim "flash in the pan" technology soon to be done in by HD-DVD?????

Originally posted by arkid
That's all good if you're just comparing your Sony to your Sony.
The picture from a better progressive scan player will be better than the Sony through component at 480P and as good if not better than the Sony through HDMI at 720P or 1080I.
I had the Sony and think the picture from the Panny XP30 is better, even better than the $650 Denon.
Just my opinion though.

From the 3 players I've tested (older Sony, newer Akai, and the 975) the only thing that looks nearly as good as the 975's 1080i HDMI is... wait for it.... 480i (yes I not P). As people earlier in this thread and others have said: this TV has an excellent scaler. I'd be interested to hear/see other people's experiences (as opposed to theories... switch that progressive mode off and check).

Originally posted by Mtnmike
You wont have a TRUE center channel experience. So I guess the answer is yes if your looking for mixed sound in front and no if you are looking for the Dolby Digital or DTS experience.

If you want accurate DD or DTS sound from your systen through a receiver then you need a center channel which broadcasts the signal designed just for that (center channel). Your TV speakers are more than just the center part of DD or DTS signal.

Thanks Mtnmike, that's kinda what I thought. Guess there's another hole to be added to my blueprints!

So is the bottom line the 975 isn't worth it on the 655 series? I want to find out before I potentially waste $400 (cable too). I have a non-progressive DVD player now, should I just get a decent progressive scan now and just wait for an HD-DVD player down the road?

Originally posted by rmcewan
How can you say it looks better unless you've compared with your own eyes to the source of which I took the photo -e.g. my TV? You can't compare a 2-inch close-up of the screen digitally photographed and blown-up to 4 or 5 times life size and then shown on your computer screen to something you're looking at with your eyes!! How scientific is that?!??!? The purpose of the photo is to COMPARE A vs. B. That's all the photos can be used for.

But how does 480P on HDMI compare to 1080i on HDMI?

Originally posted by Mtnmike
________________________________________________________

As a possible future 55WF655 owner, I'm wondering if this display has the option for me to use it as the center channel? Save me one hole in my wall and give me a rear center for 6.1!
________________________________________________________


You wont have a TRUE center channel experience. So I guess the answer is yes if your looking for mixed sound in front and no if you are looking for the Dolby Digital or DTS experience.

If you want accurate DD or DTS sound from your system through a receiver then you need a center channel which broadcasts the signal designed just for that (center channel). Your TV speakers are more than just the center part of DD or DTS signal.

I don't know if the WF's have this feature but my older Sony has a switch that allows the internal speakers to be externally powered. If the WF has this feature then it can be used as a center channel by connecting it to your AVR.

The only problem with doing it is the internal speakers are probably not as good as even a mediocre center channel speaker. Most of the dialog comes from the center channel so it's the most important speaker in your system.

__________________________________________________________So is the bottom line the 975 isn't worth it on the 655 series? I want to find out before I potentially waste $400 (cable too). I have a non-progressive DVD player now, should I just get a decent progressive scan now and just wait for an HD-DVD player down the road? ___________________________________________________________

I don't believe that is the bottom line. I have read a lot on the 975V and how it compares to other similarly priced upscaling players. Opinions of course lie in the eyes of the beholder and their display equipment and many other mitigating factors. IMHO if the configuration is proper and the picture tweaked to the owners set-up then the great majority of opinons I have seen is this player produces a stunning PQ.

Considering you are going from a older non-progressive scan player I am sure you will be very impressed with the PQ of the 975V. In any event if the cash outlay is a big consideration then a good progressive scan player is a great option. Within the next 12 to 18 months you will see true HD-DVD players showing up on the market. How far behind actual HD-DVD's will follow in any numbers remains to be seen. This is a good fill for those waiting. Finally only you can decide. If you want to rely on one or two people's negative or nuetral experience to make up your mind thats fine, but there are plenty or opinions and reviews out there (the majority positive) to help you make your decision.

Originally posted by rmcewan
From the 3 players I've tested (older Sony, newer Akai, and the 975) the only thing that looks nearly as good as the 975's 1080i HDMI is... wait for it.... 480i (yes I not P). As people earlier in this thread and others have said: this TV has an excellent scaler. I'd be interested to hear/see other people's experiences (as opposed to theories... switch that progressive mode off and check).

My point wasn't which mode to choose but which player is sending the signal.
Like I said earlier I tried 4 of the new upscaling players with digital output and none of them compare to this XP30 non upscaling player.

Originally posted by aaronwt
But how does 480P on HDMI compare to 1080i on HDMI?

There is no comparison, but again that's comparing the same DVD player to itself.

Originally posted by Stryker412
So is the bottom line the 975 isn't worth it on the 655 series? I want to find out before I potentially waste $400 (cable too). I have a non-progressive DVD player now, should I just get a decent progressive scan now and just wait for an HD-DVD player down the road?

I felt the cost of the upscaling players plus cable wasn't remotely justified. I got the XP30 for <$300 and already had component cables and now i'm seeing a better picture than the Sony, Denon's & LG.

Originally posted by arkid
I felt the cost of the upscaling players plus cable wasn't remotely justified. I got the XP30 for <$300 and already had component cables and now i'm seeing a better picture than the Sony, Denon's & LG.

Arkid,
Why do you think an HDMI/DVI cable costs alot of money? Sure, BB, CC, etc. are all pushing the $130 Monster HDMI but you KNOW Monster is a rip. I got a well made 13 foot HDMI cable for $50 on the web. I was astonished to see that a local Fry's had 6ft HDMIs for $20 (NOT in the TV section I might add).

Well I took out the magnifying glass it looks like it's dirt on one of the pixels. It seems to be affecting only part of 2 pixels one over the other. Rather looks like it's "in the cross hairs" of a rifle scope. My guess is that you can't get pixels to go 1/2 bad. Can anyone confirm?

Also what does it take to clean the inside of one of these?

Join the GWIV bandwagon people. Here is a great deal. Se@rs is offering 10% off this Saturday, but first checkout CC internet price make a copy of that price take it to Se@rs deduct the 10% and presto a price not to be forgotten, if only I could of had that deal. Second if you are slick and Se@rs will honor the BB 10% this weekend coupon as well, holy cow a steal.

Originally posted by rupertoooo
Join the GWIV bandwagon people. Here is a great deal. Se@rs is offering 10% off this Saturday, but first checkout CC internet price make a copy of that price take it to Se@rs deduct the 10% and presto a price not to be forgotten, if only I could of had that deal. Second if you are slick and Se@rs will honor the BB 10% this weekend coupon as well, holy cow a steal.
Not to rain on your parade, but in my experience, the B&M's usually won't honor the price of an internet retailer, even if that store has B&M locations. Your best bet is to go to the internet retailer's B&M location and photocopy the price tag if the item is listed at the same sale price. Take that with you into Sears and you'll have more ammo to support your purchase.

I was in BB today and told him CC had the same unit for less. He looked it up on the CC site and said he would match the price.

I have a favor to ask anyone with the 60WF655. Can you measure the width of the screen? The unit itself is listed as 62" wide so I figure it's around 58" but would like to know for sure. This is all part of the "convince the wife" phase of buying a new TV.

Originally posted by radius360
Not to rain on your parade, but in my experience, the B&M's usually won't honor the price of an internet retailer, even if that store has B&M locations. Your best bet is to go to the internet retailer's B&M location and photocopy the price tag if the item is listed at the same sale price. Take that with you into Sears and you'll have more ammo to support your purchase.

Well, I think that sears might match this since CC is a B&M. However a match would only occur if the CC price was lower than the Sears after the 10% price reduction, not the original floor price.

actually the best thing to do is go in and get them to pricematch the tv today and then tomorrow morning while they have the 10% off go in and get the reduction. You're more likely to get it done that way. It really is up to your store's managers/salesman though.

I don't want a bunch of pm's, but its possible to get the tv for around 800 off if you look at pricegrabber and get sears to agree to a certain pricematch. One company happens to have a retail presence and a really good price. I got mine that way with an extra twist.

I need a favor of anyone who has a 60XS955. I just need someone to measure the height from the BASE to the where the Display starts on the bottom . My best guess would be around 4" but i need to make sure.

I purchased the SU-GW12 stand and I'm trying to figure out the height which the TV display will be from the ground. The stand is listed as 17 3/8 however there is a opening for the TV to be placed in so the actual high when the tv sits on the stand is 17". So if the height of the base to display is 4 inches the display of the tv will be 21 inches off the ground.!

.. thanks in advance.

Originally posted by bashy
I need a favor of anyone who has a 60XS955. I just need someone to measure the height from the BASE to the where the Display starts on the bottom . My best guess would be around 4" but i need to make sure.


You don't need to make sure. I have the 55XS955, and these XS Sonys are so bright a few vertical inches makes absolutely no difference in the viewing experience.

Originally posted by bashy
I need a favor of anyone who has a 60XS955. I just need someone to measure the height from the BASE to the where the Display starts on the bottom . My best guess would be around 4" but i need to make sure.
I think it is a bit higher than that, closer to 8" from the TV's base to the bottom of the screen. I estimate that the middle of the screen, which many claim should be at eye level, is about 22" up from the base. So with a 17" stand, the midpoint of the screen would be 39" off of the floor, which is pretty good unless you have very high seating. Our eye level is between 38-39", so that stand would work well.

Originally posted by 73Ragtop
I have the 55XS955, and these XS Sonys are so bright a few vertical inches makes absolutely no difference in the viewing experience.
I am not sure the brightness level makes much difference. I find that DLPs in general are brighter than LCD RPTVs, but DLPs seem to suffer more light loss than LCD RPTVs when you move your line of sight vertically.

OTOH, the 55xs955 keeps an even off-axis brightness level much better than most RPTVs. One thing I have noticed is that the brightness level is better from below the screen's midpoint than from above the screen's midpoint. To me that means err slightly high on the TV stand than slightly low.

Michael

dmbatch,

The screen on the KDF60WF655 is 51-3/4".

Buy it be happy!

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
I think it is a bit higher than that, closer to 8" from the TV's base to the bottom of the screen. I estimate that the middle of the screen, which many claim should be at eye level, is about 22" up from the base.
bashy,

I just realized that my comments were based on the 55xs955, which someone else mentioned, but you were interested in the 60xs955 measurements. Figure on the 60xs955's screen midpoint being about 1.25" higher than on the 55xs955.

Michael

Has anyone ever had any luck getting CC to pricematch Onec@ll.

Originally posted by technojunkie
dmbatch,

The screen on the KDF60WF655 is 51-3/4".

Buy it be happy!

Thanks.

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
bashy,

I just realized that my comments were based on the 55xs955, which someone else mentioned, but you were interested in the 60xs955 measurements. Figure on the 60xs955's screen midpoint being about 1.25" higher than on the 55xs955.

Michael

Thank you, then it seems as if the 17 3/8 stand should be well high enough for the 60 inche TV. I was thinkin about building block under it due it being so low!!

Thanks for the tip! I just went to a Sears that happens to be across the street from the company you mentioned and they matched except for adjusting the difference in delivery charges.

Also, something I was not aware of. if you are going to be a new cable customer as I am, don't miss this: w w w.onlycablecan.com/sony/ (delete spaces)

Originally posted by watjac92
actually the best thing to do is go in and get them to pricematch the tv today and then tomorrow morning while they have the 10% off go in and get the reduction. You're more likely to get it done that way. It really is up to your store's managers/salesman though.

I don't want a bunch of pm's, but its possible to get the tv for around 800 off if you look at pricegrabber and get sears to agree to a certain pricematch. One company happens to have a retail presence and a really good price. I got mine that way with an extra twist.

After having the KDF-55XS955 for a few day's I love this set the only thing I'm having a problem with is the Black's. There's just a light cast over the screen and nothing I do can get rid of it so I'm guessing this is what people talk about with lcd's having bad black's? I read up about putting a ND filter in the tv and this help's out allot. Has anyone ever heard of this?

I didn't do a pricematch but looking at today's price for a KDF50WE655 and the price I paid at CC on TH, I paid $100 less at CC delivered. Of course since I purchased locally, there was sales tax at CC which more than equalled things out. CC will negotiate price but only wanted to price match local stores in my case.

Originally posted by rupertoooo
Has anyone ever had any luck getting CC to pricematch Onec@ll.

Originally posted by chad2323
After having the KDF-55XS955 for a few day's I love this set the only thing I'm having a problem with is the Black's. There's just a light cast over the screen and nothing I do can get rid of it so I'm guessing this is what people talk about with lcd's having bad black's?
The 55XS955 should get you a decent-to-good black, so it would be interesting to find out which video settings you are using. It is best to go into the Pro mode, setting the Brightness to less than midpoint (somewhere between 24 and 28) as a start. Better still is to have a video calibration disk, but I find it is the Brightness setting that wrecks havoc with the blacks.

Michael

Thank's Michael for the reply . I do have a calibration disc but I was waiting a few days to calibrate I will give it a go tonight and see if I can get it any better.

Thank's

Thank's Michael for the reply . I do have a calibration disc but I was waiting a few days to calibrate I will give it a go tonight and see if I can get it any better.

Thank's

Thank's Michael for the reply . I do have a calibration disc but I was waiting a few days to calibrate I will give it a go tonight and see if I can get it any better.

Thank's

I just bought a 55WF655 at Sears today and they didn't have any 10% off deal...although I did much better than 10% off anyway :)

Originally posted by rupertoooo
Join the GWIV bandwagon people. Here is a great deal. Se@rs is offering 10% off this Saturday, but first checkout CC internet price make a copy of that price take it to Se@rs deduct the 10% and presto a price not to be forgotten, if only I could of had that deal. Second if you are slick and Se@rs will honor the BB 10% this weekend coupon as well, holy cow a steal.

I think the sears 10% off was an early bird special from like 7-10 am.

The CC online price is the same I saw at a store earlier today. No effective difference.

And the price was $400 LOWER than both a few weeks ago, before the prices started rising for both the Sony LCD and the Samsung DLP. Demand must be alot greater for both models, which isn't surprising since many 1st-timers will not spring for the complexity or extra cost of a plasma or other high-end technologies.

The Grand Wega and Samsung DLP are the sets the salesmen are steering everyone over to at BB and CC.

OK, everyone seems to have the 55XS955 and 60WF655 for the same price. So, what to do? Go for the bigger screen or the extra inputs and screen coating. I have a good surround sound system so the built in sound is not an issue. I also only have 1 HDMI device and component switching on my AVR.

BTW, when I see the SX and WF side-by-side in the stores I can't see a difference in the PQ.

Refresh my memory....the 55X is which model and the 60WF is the regular 60" Sony LCD, right ?

And what special screen coating are you referring to ?

Sony has a 55 SX and WF and a 60 SX and WF. The SX has some upgrades from the WF. It has 2 HDMI/DVI inputs, a better built in sound system, more tweaks in the standard menu and some sort of screen coating that enhances the color.

Ok, please help me understand something. I just stuck an OTA antenna up in my attic and got everything all plugged up. Did a channel scan and I get several digial channels plus even more analogs.

I start flipping through anxious to see some brilliantly clear pictures...and I'm still waiting. I happened to catch COPS and it was in HD. I definitely saw the difference there. It was full screen and really clear. The rest of the channels are pretty crappy. The info display when you change channels tells me that some things are 720p and others are 1080i but it doesn't look any different than SD, even has the black bars down the sides. What gives?

Plus, I can't seem to get any audio out of the opticial cable. Will it only spit out DD stuff via OTA or can I get even 2 channel audio from the optical? I thought that I had maybe hooked it up wrong or my AVR wasn't configured correctly, but I believe it is. I hooked it into the DVR/VCR2 optical port and assigned optical 2 (where it's hooked into) to that setting, but no sound.

I have the TV set to variable out. I tried looking in the manual but I didn't see what I'm missing.

Please tell me that HD is better than this...

also, I know that I haven't perfectly directed my antenna just yet, but I would expect that I either get a signal or I don't (or maybe lots of drops). I get a pretty solid signal (no meter) but it's not HD.

Ideas are greatly appreciated as this isn't exactly what I thought it would be, but I know it's probably user error or misunderstanding, so please enlighten me.

Thanks all!

Originally posted by Chad0429
I start flipping through anxious to see some brilliantly clear pictures...and I'm still waiting. I happened to catch COPS and it was in HD. I definitely saw the difference there. It was full screen and really clear. The rest of the channels are pretty crappy. The info display when you change channels tells me that some things are 720p and others are 1080i but it doesn't look any different than SD, even has the black bars down the sides. What gives?
Some "HD" is actually SD upconverted. It often looks like SH**. A good DVD looks great.

Originally posted by Chad0429
Plus, I can't seem to get any audio out of the opticial cable. Will it only spit out DD stuff via OTA or can I get even 2 channel audio from the optical? I thought that I had maybe hooked it up wrong or my AVR wasn't configured correctly, but I believe it is. I hooked it into the DVR/VCR2 optical port and assigned optical 2 (where it's hooked into) to that setting, but no sound.
It only works with digital channels. The set won't digitize analog channel audio.

Thank you Craig. That helps - sucks they upconvert SD stuff, but oh well.

I'll direct this over to the D/FW HD section, but I'll post here too...

Is there a site you can check or do the local stations post what they'll be broadcasting in true HD (inc DD)?

Also, should I leave my TV audio setting on variable out and will the TV figure out which way it should direct the signal?

Thanks again for the help.

hi guys,
just got my 60xs955 hooked up. No HD yet! Picture on digital cable is pretty good. set probably could use some tweeking. Can you recomend a good calibration disc and where to get it?

Also can't get used to the "stretched screen " look in full or zoom mode. Anyway to tweek that?
Thanks!

Originally posted by Chad0429
Is there a site you can check or do the local stations post what they'll be broadcasting in true HD (inc DD)?



Try this:

http://www.hdtvgalaxy.com/broad.html

Originally posted by Chad0429
Also, should I leave my TV audio setting on variable out and will the TV figure out which way it should direct the signal?
The variable out setting doesn't affect the digital optical out. For analog out, it enables the TV volume control. If it's set to fixed, then only your receiver will control the volume. BTW, for analog audio out, TV speakers must be turned off.

whats this screen coating the xs is supposed to have? I've not read anything about this until now?

That makes two of us.

Maybe just a sales pitch, but I've heard it at 2 different places now. I think Sony calls it "Live Color".

Originally posted by dmbatch
Maybe just a sales pitch, but I've heard it at 2 different places now. I think Sony calls it "Live Color".
The "Live Color" feature is actually a user setting in the Advanced Video menu of the xs955. Sony's web site states "Live Color provides rich colors for both Standard and High Definition signal without side effects", whereas the xs955 owner's manual states "Live Color - Select to enhance the blue and green color".

Looking over Sony's web site for the 55xs955 and the 55wf655, the only listing related to the screen that is on the 55xs955's page and not on the 55wf655's page is "High Resolution Panel". I think that is too generic to have any meaning.

Someone could try the Sony Online Chat service for confirmation. I did that previously to determine that the lamp on the 55xs955 has a 1 year warranty, not 90 days like it is on some other TVs like the Hitachi vx810 and vx915 LCD RPTVs we were considering before the xs955. I'll check with the Sony Online Chat when I get back in a few hours if no one else decides to do this.

Michael

OK, thanks! Have I mentioned how much I hate dealing with sale people?

Some very interesting reading on OTA, DBS, and Cable HD:

HDTV The Big Picture (http://www.rogertowne.com/HDTV.htm#HDTVBigPicture)

There have been several posts about this but I'd like to hear from others one more time. I am having a large wall unit/entertainment center built and am trying to figure out how high off the ground it should be. At 1st I had it at 25", but I'm thinking that is too high. If I lower it to say 21", that will leave about 20" on each side for components (as there are drawers for storage of other things like movies). I think that should hold 6 components, and I can't imagine having more than that. Right now I have:

KDF-55WF655

DVD/VCR combo
Sat receiver
Amp
pre-amp
Tivo

Eventually I will have

Sat/DVR combo
Amp
HT receiver
HD-DVD
VCR

I could conceivably see throwing in a game box of some type.

If I went with 25" I could probably get 8 components in, but with 20" just 6. So I'm torn between the height vs. component space issue.

Anyone have the the KDF-55WF655 at 25", and if so, at what distance do you sit. I would like to be able to lay on the floor sometimes and watch from about 8 ft, but most sitting is done in a couch about 10 - 12" away.

Thanks for any input.

/Sean

I received my new kdf-55wf655 last Monday and when I first turned it on, it ran through the auto program finding all my SD channels and a couple HD channels (ESPN for one) without a cable card or antenna. While channel surfing I found two more HD channels (ABC and NBC) on channels 79.13 and 79.14. Time Warner came today and installed my cable card and now the 79.13 and 79.14 channels are gone. I went into the channels menu in an attempt to run auto program and the option to add digital channels but both of them are grayed out now.
Does anyone have an idea why the options are not available now, and how I might get the channels back since they are not part of the HD package from Time Warner?

Originally posted by mw_98
I went into the channels menu in an attempt to run auto program and the option to add digital channels but both of them are grayed out now.
Does anyone have an idea why the options are not available now, and how I might get the channels back since they are not part of the HD package from Time Warner?
According to the owner's manual (page 58), it states that if you are using a Cable Card, the Auto Program feature is disabled for the Cable Input. Also, the Cable company controls the programming on the card, so they probably limit what you can add (or disable that feature altogether).

Michael

Originally posted by mw_98
I received my new kdf-55wf655 last Monday and when I first turned it on, it ran through the auto program finding all my SD channels and a couple HD channels (ESPN for one) without a cable card or antenna. While channel surfing I found two more HD channels (ABC and NBC) on channels 79.13 and 79.14. Time Warner came today and installed my cable card and now the 79.13 and 79.14 channels are gone. I went into the channels menu in an attempt to run auto program and the option to add digital channels but both of them are grayed out now.
Does anyone have an idea why the options are not available now, and how I might get the channels back since they are not part of the HD package from Time Warner?

The cable card remaps channels so that they correspond to what Time-Warner publishes in their channel guide. Are you sure these are not listed? Try going into Yahoo TV and seeing what they list for your area.

Rebroadcast local network affiliates are generally not scrambled, and I don't think you normally need an HDTV 'package' to get them. I don't know what your zip code is, but if say you were located in central NY, ABC HD is listed as channel 889.

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
According to the owner's manual (page 58), it states that if you are using a Cable Card, the Auto Program feature is disabled for the Cable Input. Also, the Cable company controls the programming on the card, so they probably limit what you can add (or disable that feature altogether).

Michael

Geez....I read that page but didn't see the note on the side of the page.
Thanks

Originally posted by mw_98
I received my new kdf-55wf655 last Monday and when I first turned it on, it ran through the auto program finding all my SD channels and a couple HD channels (ESPN for one) without a cable card or antenna. While channel surfing I found two more HD channels (ABC and NBC) on channels 79.13 and 79.14.
I have a dumb question (we have cable, but not digital cable TV). Do you think with time you could find all of the digital channels on your cable TV system with the Cable Card removed? Of course, this is not counting digital PPV and premium channels.

Michael

Originally posted by ehlarson
The cable card remaps channels so that they correspond to what Time-Warner publishes in their channel guide. Are you sure these are not listed? Try going into Yahoo TV and seeing what they list for your area.

Rebroadcast local network affiliates are generally not scrambled, and I don't think you normally need an HDTV 'package' to get them. I don't know what your zip code is, but if say you were located in central NY, ABC HD is listed as channel 889.

Thanks for the tip about Yahoo TV. I live on the New York / PA border near Elmira NY and I found the ABC HD channel (it's on channel 703) but the NBC channel appears to be gone now. I did get it before they installed the cable card so your assumption that they were broadcast unscrambled is correct.
The two channels were on 79.13 and 79.14 previously, but there is no signal there now. When did they start using using decimal points in the cable channels?

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
I have a dumb question (we have cable, but not digital cable TV). Do you think with time you could find all of the digital channels on your cable TV system with the Cable Card removed? Of course, this is not counting digital PPV and premium channels.

Michael

I only had the "basic" (analog) cable ( no digital or HI-DEF channels) and before the cable card was installed, the "auto program" feature found all 77 of my "basic" (analog) channels and it found several HD channels. It did not find any "digital" channels. I would expect that the cable would control access to the digital channels otherwise anyone would have access to them without a cable card or cable box.

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
The "Live Color" feature is actually a user setting in the Advanced Video menu of the xs955. Sony's web site states "Live Color provides rich colors for both Standard and High Definition signal without side effects", whereas the xs955 owner's manual states "Live Color - Select to enhance the blue and green color".

Looking over Sony's web site for the 55xs955 and the 55wf655, the only listing related to the screen that is on the 55xs955's page and not on the 55wf655's page is "High Resolution Panel". I think that is too generic to have any meaning.

Someone could try the Sony Online Chat service for confirmation. I did that previously to determine that the lamp on the 55xs955 has a 1 year warranty, not 90 days like it is on some other TVs like the Hitachi vx810 and vx915 LCD RPTVs we were considering before the xs955. I'll check with the Sony Online Chat when I get back in a few hours if no one else decides to do this.

Michael

Did anyone over on the Sony Online Chat board know anything about the screen coating the salesmen keep telling me about?

When did they start using using decimal points in the cable channels?
When they went digital. A digital SD broadcast doesn't require the full bandwidth, so it can be split into sub-channels. An HD broadcast will use the full bandwidth. The BW of each channel was a factor as to what the HD resolution would be when the formats were defined.
Many cable companies, compress the broadcast HD channels down so multiple ones fit into subchannels. Mine does this and whenever there is a lot of fast movement, I get major pixelization.

Originally posted by dmbatch
Did anyone over on the Sony Online Chat board know anything about the screen coating the salesmen keep telling me about?
Yes, I just talked with them this evening. The Live Color is an additional video parameter. They don't come out and say that the screens are the same or different on the WF655 and the XS955. From physical appearances, it seems like there is some difference, but I wouldn't put money on it.

Michael

Originally posted by seanb724
[B]There have been several posts about this but I'd like to hear from others one more time. I am having a large wall unit/entertainment center built and am trying to figure out how high off the ground it should be. At 1st I had it at 25", but I'm thinking that is too high. If I lower it to say 21", that will leave about 20" on each side for components (as there are drawers for storage of other things like movies). I think that should hold 6 components, and I can't imagine having more than that.

25 way too high. 21 still too high. The Sony matching stand is 16".
The Set is 60" or so wide. That should give you space for THREE stacks of equipment under the TV.

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
Yes, I just talked with them this evening. The Live Color is an additional video parameter. They don't come out and say that the screens are the same or different on the WF655 and the XS955. From physical appearances, it seems like there is some difference, but I wouldn't put money on it.

Michael

Thanks for checking. I think I'll try to get more specific detail from one of the sales guys, like maybe something on their spec sheet. If the only difference between the SX and WF is inputs and user tweak menu I'll probably go with the 60WF.

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
I have a dumb question (we have cable, but not digital cable TV). Do you think with time you could find all of the digital channels on your cable TV system with the Cable Card removed? Of course, this is not counting digital PPV and premium channels.

Michael

I believe autoscan will actually find all un-encrypted digital cable channels. When I first ran autoscan on Cox cable here in N. Virginia, my KDF50-WE655 found all of the Spanish Tier, the PPV preview channels, and a couple shopping channels along with the local HDTV feeds in the clear. These are gone now that I have a cable card, but I'd rather have ESPN anyway.

The moral - hook up the TV and scan your cable. If you can live with what you get, there may be no need for a digital upgrade or cable card. Of course the Cable Co. can decide to scramble stuff at any time. There seems to be some ambiguity in the FCC rules regarding retransmission of local HDTV, so you may be OK on these for a while.

My understanding is that cable companies are NOT allowed to charge you for providing OTA HD channels (CBS, NBC, FOX, ABC) BUT they will charge you for a digital box. So if you have a cable card, that's why your picking up the HD channels for above.

Aceman

Originally posted by rmcewan
25 way too high. 21 still too high. The Sony matching stand is 16".
The Set is 60" or so wide. That should give you space for THREE stacks of equipment under the TV.

The width of the wall unit is 8.5 feet across. There will be two cabinets of 21" wide each on the ends and then two sets of drawers that are 30" across in the middle, for storage. So the two cabinets are where the components will go...

Right now we have the TV on a temp stand that is only 15" high. I know 25" is too high, but I think 21 or 22" is workable. Maybe I need to rig up something temporary at a higher level and see what I think!

/Sean

Originally posted by Aceman
My understanding is that cable companies are NOT allowed to charge you for providing OTA HD channels (CBS, NBC, FOX, ABC)...
I had heard this also. For now, that's all I would be interested in until there are enough desired HD channels beyond the local channels to go the cable card route.

Michael

Just noticed a problem on my 55WF.
Starting at the top of the screen about half way accross is a blue glow. It's about 4" wide and goes down towards the middle of the screen about a foot or so. It's only noticable against a very dark or black background.
It kind of flickers constantly so I was wondering if it's part of the bulb that could be projected on the screen?
The way it flickers makes me believe that it's not a dust problem or something blocking the light.

OK, I finally got the details on the difference between the WF and SX. Should have known Crutchfield would have the answers. These are listed as step-ups from the WF to the SX;

"Live Color" color enhancements (improves blues and greens w/o affecting red)

Advanced menu picture adjustments

2 HDMI inputs

5 speaker system with 100 watt amp

Adjustable DRC MultiFunction V1

Anti-reflective screen coating

I might be going for the SX. I watch a lot of SD from DTV so the adjustable DRC would be worthwhile. My room is well lit with windows and skylights so the anti-reflective coating could be useful.

Originally posted by dmbatch
OK, I finally got the details on the difference between the WF and SX. Should have known Crutchfield would have the answers. These are listed as step-ups from the WF to the SX;

"Live Color" color enhancements (improves blues and greens w/o affecting red)

Advanced menu picture adjustments

2 HDMI inputs

5 speaker system with 100 watt amp

Adjustable DRC MultiFunction V1

Anti-reflective screen coating

I might be going for the SX. I watch a lot of SD from DTV so the adjustable DRC would be worthwhile. My room is well lit with windows and skylights so the anti-reflective coating could be useful.

What benefits does the Adjustable DRC MultiFunction V1 offer?

I believe it upconverts non-HD signals

Originally posted by Buck's SCSW
What benefits does the Adjustable DRC MultiFunction V1 offer?
It allows you to adjust the TV's scaler for 480i inputs. You can adjust the level of detail (Reality) and smoothness (Clarity) to create up to three custom palettes.

It should be noted that this feature is on both the xs955 and wf655 TVs.

Michael

I can confirm that the FCC regulations do state this but it is getting the cable companies to conform that I am finding to be the hard part. I am having to pay an extra $15/month for the local HD's and they told me that I HAD to have a STB. I'm still trying though. My provider doesn't have the cablecars yet and don't know if/when they will.

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
I had heard this also. For now, that's all I would be interested in until there are enough desired HD channels beyond the local channels to go the cable card route.

Michael

Both the WF & XS have adjustable DRC and custom pallettes. Here are links to the owner's manuals for both the KDF55WF655 and the KDF55XS955 for any potential buyers to review. The two systems are basically the same with a couple more bells and whistles on the XS.

KDF55WF655 Owners Manual (http://www.sonystyle.com/intershoproot/eCS/Store/en/documents/specifications/KDF55WF655.pdf)

KDF55XS955 Owner's Manual (http://www.sonystyle.com/intershoproot/eCS/Store/en/documents/specifications/KDF55XS955.pdf)

You might want run a word search in each for "DRC" and read the results. Both allow you to create up to 3 custom DRC palettes for non HD signals thus improving the traditional poor display of analog and SD signals that are inherent in all HDTV's. DRC is automatically disabled when an HD signal is received.

If a big deciding factor is the 2 HDMI vs 1 HDMI an alternate solution is to purchase an HDMI 2 input to 1 output switcher and that solves that issue. An example is the Gefen HDMI switcher which happens to come with 2 six foot HDMI cables and a remote for a little more than $200.00:

http://www.gefen.com/kvm/product.jsp?prod_id=2208

BTW there are HDMI to HDMI cables out there that are as good as Monster for less money. Example can be found at the Sony online store with HDMI cables specific to your Sony model:

Sony HDMI cables (http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_ParametricSearch-Start?search_keyword=hdmi+cable&selected_category_name=None&SearchAll.x=9&SearchAll.y=4)

Cable Box Setting for 60WF655
My cable company (Comcast) uses the Motorola 6200 for the STB. One can set the component video output to be 480p, 720p or 1080i. Between the 720p and 1080i settings, which is the correct (best) one to use with the the 60WF655? What is the native resolution for the TV?

Thanks,

KAD

How do you set the output of the motorola?

I used 720P because I thought it looked marginally better. In reality, the best solution would be to pass the signal in it's native resolution and let the TV do the scaling...because it will scale everything to 768P anyway. Since you probably get a combination of 720P and 1080i HD content from various broadcasters some of it will need to be rescaled by the Moto and then scaled again by the Sony...no way around it other than to change the output of the Moto specifically for each channel which isn't at all a reasonable solution. FYI the new Moto 6412 DVR boxes let you switch between output modes in the regular user settings without having to power off the box and go into the setup controls like the 6200...although I still keep it set at 720P for everything.

Originally posted by drengka
Cable Box Setting for 60WF655
My cable company (Comcast) uses the Motorola 6200 for the STB. One can set the component video output to be 480p, 720p or 1080i. Between the 720p and 1080i settings, which is the correct (best) one to use with the the 60WF655? What is the native resolution for the TV?

Thanks,

KAD

TH3 -

The general consensus in the GWIII thread was to set the Mot to 1080i, but I agree - setting it to output 720p is marginally better (can't really put a finger on why though).

I am also using the DCT6412, but I can only change the output via the power-off menu (press MENU while DVR power is off). Where in your normal user menu can you set output format? Maybe it depends on which firmware my local cable provider is using?

OCD

Originally posted by TH3_FRB
I used 720P because I thought it looked marginally better. In reality, the best solution would be to pass the signal in it's native resolution and let the TV do the scaling...because it will scale everything to 768P anyway. Since you probably get a combination of 720P and 1080i HD content from various broadcasters some of it will need to be rescaled by the Moto and then scaled again by the Sony...no way around it other than to change the output of the Moto specifically for each channel which isn't at all a reasonable solution. FYI the new Moto 6412 DVR boxes let you switch between output modes in the regular user settings without having to power off the box and go into the setup controls like the 6200...although I still keep it set at 720P for everything.

I searched the thread but I haven't run across this information. Is there a listed Contrast level or one from a review?

Also has Sony introduced the active aperture in there TV's like the new HS51 LCD projector?

Originally posted by Michael Mohrmann
It allows you to adjust the TV's scaler for 480i inputs. You can adjust the level of detail (Reality) and smoothness (Clarity) to create up to three custom palettes.

It should be noted that this feature is on both the xs955 and wf655 TVs.

Michael

So even Crutchfield is not accurate. I looked at the Sony site and you are correct, both have the feature. I'm not sure 1 extra HDMI and an anti-reflective screen coating is worth $400.

Originally posted by dmbatch
I'm not sure 1 extra HDMI and an anti-reflective screen coating is worth $400.
I was able to get the difference for the 55s down to about $200, so it was an easier decision. Add the fact that my wife likes the look of the 55xs955 over the 55wf655, plus some additional settings in the Advanced Video menu in the 55xs955, which IMO make or break the 55xs955's ability to display a quality black scale (these parameters may be available to the 55wf655 but in the Service Menu), we went with the 55xs955.

But there are some advantages to the 55wf655 over the 55xs955, like less overall width (~ 4.5" less), a less reflective border around the screen, and of course less cost. Sony priced the two TVs just about right to make it a difficult decision for many!

Michael

I just got a flyer from my local AV store (Myer-Emco) that has a 10% off coupon for the 60XS. The current best B&M price for the 60WF in this area (BB or CC) is $300 off the MSRP. That puts the difference at $290 which is just not that much. Think I'll go for the 60SX so I don't have to choose between the size and the features. ;)

Chad0429,

I don't know where you live, but I'm in Houston TX and my OTA is stunning. I watched MNF in 720p and I can't say I've ever seen anything like it. Try this link to see what is available in HD in your area..www.checkhd.com. You will find that although all the major networks have a "digital or hd" channel, some just upconvert everything. Others actually broadcast in hd. You will know the difference when you see it trust me..bob.

Originally posted by dmbatch
I just got a flyer from my local AV store (Myer-Emco) that has a 10% off coupon for the 60XS. The current best B&M price for the 60WF in this area (BB or CC) is $300 off the MSRP. That puts the difference at $290 which is just not that much. Think I'll go for the 60SX so I don't have to choose between the size and the features. ;)
I wish you good luck in your decision. We purchased our 55xs955 on 11/27, 18 days ago, and it's still in its shipping box. We had been trying to find a TV stand that would work for the TV and fit into the room, plus we needed a couple of audio racks for all of the components we have or will have, like DirecTiVo and XBox.

We finally got all of the parts to build the stands yesterday, and today we found a home for our old 35" tube TV and our 5'x5' oak entertainment center. So, tonight I start building the TV stand and hope that I can find a level enough spot in our familyroom to hold the TV. Almost there! :)

Michael

Hit "settings" on the remote, then hit the "A" triangle button for more options. You should have an output format option where you can pick the HD format and 4:3 format you want the 6412 to send to your TV.

Originally posted by HD_OCD
TH3 -

The general consensus in the GWIII thread was to set the Mot to 1080i, but I agree - setting it to output 720p is marginally better (can't really put a finger on why though).

I am also using the DCT6412, but I can only change the output via the power-off menu (press MENU while DVR power is off). Where in your normal user menu can you set output format? Maybe it depends on which firmware my local cable provider is using?

OCD

TH3 -

Thanks, but doesn't work here. I'll check with provider to see if feature can be added - it would be nice.

OCD

Originally posted by TH3_FRB
Hit "settings" on the remote, then hit the "A" triangle button for more options. You should have an output format option where you can pick the HD format and 4:3 format you want the 6412 to send to your TV.

I am getting closer and closer to pulling the trigger on the 55XS595, but now I need to find a stand that can hold my 400 Sony DVD Player under my TV. Am I out of luck. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again, Scott.

I'll retry this question as no one reply'ed the first time

"I searched the thread but I haven't run across this information. Is there a listed Contrast level or one from a review?

Also has Sony introduced the active aperture in there TV's like the new HS51 LCD projector?"

Chuckvb, What setting are you looking at? Settings in the user menu or service menu? What are you trying to do? In service menu it is UPIC contrast, UBRT picture black level. If you go in & change it you need to hit reset on your remote in what ever type PRO, STANDARD.VIVID. In the UMR tweaks they show you what & how to set.

This is another place to get more inf.....http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=465144&perpage=20&pagenumber=1

Originally posted by Mtnmike
BTW there are HDMI to HDMI cables out there that are as good as Monster for less money. Example can be found at the Sony online store with HDMI cables specific to your Sony model:

Sony HDMI cables (http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_ParametricSearch-Start?search_keyword=hdmi+cable&selected_category_name=None&SearchAll.x=9&SearchAll.y=4)

I just bought a Monster DVI-HDMI cable (2m/6.6ft) for $119.99 from CC so I could connect the Voom box DVI to the KDF-55WF655 HDMI. It was initially connected using the component cables that came with the VOom box. PQ has certainly improved.

Morten

Are the screens indeed different between the 3 sony models? I got the xs and was surprised that the screen wasn't as glareful as I thought it would be. I thought it was said to be plexiglass...not sure what the others are. It does not have nearly the glare of the hitachi series lcds (810).
I thought initially the deciding factors were on the screen material, the additional inputs, and the additions to the menu. When I saw the 55wf in the store the screen didn't look noticably different than my 60xs. Unfortunatley they didn't have an xs setup next to it for me to do a direct compare so that is why I ask you guys who have seen them in the same conditions right next to each other.
I've had my 60xs since october and am quite happy with it but just wanted to be clear on this issue.

Thanks

As near as I can figure out, based on information obtained from several sources, the SX has an anti-reflective screen coating that the WF does not. The XBR's have a double coating.

Interesting that you noticed a difference in glare without knowing that. Makes me believe it works.

Run back to CC and return that cable!!!

Monster cables and other products are extremely over-priced...it's criminal. You can get a good quality dvi/hdmi cable online for $30-40 that will be every bit as good as the Monster.

Originally posted by mortenharket
I just bought a Monster DVI-HDMI cable (2m/6.6ft) for $119.99 from CC so I could connect the Voom box DVI to the KDF-55WF655 HDMI. It was initially connected using the component cables that came with the VOom box. PQ has certainly improved.

Morten

Run back to CC and return that cable!!!

Monster cables and other products are extremely over-priced...it's criminal. You can get a good quality dvi/hdmi cable online for $30-40 that will be every bit as good as the Monster.

Originally posted by mortenharket
I just bought a Monster DVI-HDMI cable (2m/6.6ft) for $119.99 from CC so I could connect the Voom box DVI to the KDF-55WF655 HDMI. It was initially connected using the component cables that came with the VOom box. PQ has certainly improved.

Morten

Originally posted by smcapilo
I am getting closer and closer to pulling the trigger on the 55XS595, but now I need to find a stand that can hold my 400 Sony DVD Player under my TV. Am I out of luck. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again, Scott.

Sauder.com this stand holds my 60XS955, pm me i'll send photo's, also good price on without breaking the bank

Originally posted by smcapilo
I am getting closer and closer to pulling the trigger on the 55XS595, but now I need to find a stand that can hold my 400 Sony DVD Player under my TV. Am I out of luck. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again, Scott.

I use the Bush VS74377 with the 55XS955, which I got from Best Buy. I am very happy with it, it fits the television well with the speakers slightly extending just a bit past the edges of the stand, it seems very sturdy, it looks good in my opinion, and there is ample shelf space for components (it will fit a minimum of 6 components).

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=1060605669796&skuId=5902302&type=product

http://www.bush-furniture-online.com/index.php?p_id=11439

Originally posted by jmenard
I use the Bush VS74377 with the 55XS955, which I got from Best Buy. I am very happy with it, it fits the television well with the speakers slightly extending just a bit past the edges of the stand, it seems very sturdy, it looks good in my opinion, and there is ample shelf space for components (it will fit a minimum of 6 components).

Search the bestbuy web site and bush-furniture-online for VS74377

[Sorry I can't post the links directly but I haven't made my requisite five posts yet :rolleyes: ]


Hi - I'm looking at the 55XS955 as well. I noticed the height on this Bush stand is 22 7/8" - I take it you don't think it's too high for this TV? I noticed some of the other stands for TVs of this size are in the 17-20" range. I would imagine a less than 3" differential shouldn't make too much difference, but thought I'd ask.

Also, is the middle shelf adjustable on that Bush stand? I couldn't figure this out from the BB website.

Thanks.

Originally posted by TH3_FRB
Run back to CC and return that cable!!!

Monster cables and other products are extremely over-priced...it's criminal. You can get a good quality dvi/hdmi cable online for $30-40 that will be every bit as good as the Monster.


Any HDMI cable will do? I saw some on eBay for like $20-30 - definitely don't want to spend $120!!! :eek:

Originally posted by Turd Burglar
Hi - I'm looking at the 55XS955 as well. I noticed the height on this Bush stand is 22 7/8" - I take it you don't think it's too high for this TV? I noticed some of the other stands for TVs of this size are in the 17-20" range. I would imagine a less than 3" differential shouldn't make too much difference, but thought I'd ask.

Also, is the middle shelf adjustable on that Bush stand? I couldn't figure this out from the BB website.

Thanks.

This is interesting. I bought a stand that is 30" high but I'm concerned it's too high (don't have the TV or stand yet). So I went to Sony online and chatted with a rep, and he said it would be fine. I don't believe him, but that's what he said. Many people have said 30" is too high, while someone else has the same stand I bought and says it's ok. Can we get some opinions here?