This thread is for owners of HLP5674 and HLP4674 sets. If you don't own one of these sets please search the thread before asking questions.

Lets try to keep this thread to just the "74" series and what is unique about them.

Suggested topics -
new owner experiences,
Problems people are having,
Service Menu differences or recommended settings,
discrete remote codes,
tweaks,
hardware incompatibilities or what works for you.
your setups pictures,
Detailed dimensions (if they differ from Samsungs install sheets), tweaks, etc.

Please don't lauch off on discussions of different sets, DVD players, or receivers unless you are talking about them as it directly relates directly to the HLP5674 or HLP4674.

With these set having a different light/color engine from any of the other Samsung sets I expect the ultimate adjustments will be different than the other HLP (and than the older HLN models) - with this thread we won't be having to get confused with either the 85 or 63 models issues.

See the next posting for links to references for these sets.

Handy references:

(Please let me know any more links that should be on this page)

Product page:
http://www.samsungusa.com/cgi-bin/nabc/product/b2c_product_detail.jsp?eUser=&prod_id=HLP5674WX/XAA

http://www.samsungusa.com/cgi-bin/nabc/product/b2c_product_detail.jsp?prod_id=HLP4674WX%252fXAA

Technical drawings:
http://www.samsungusa.com/pdf/hlp5674_drawing.pdf
http://www.samsungusa.com/pdf/hlp4674_drawing.pdf

Spec Sheet:
http://www.samsungusa.com/SamsungUSA/PRODUCT/20041028/hlp5674.pdf
http://www.samsungusa.com/SamsungUSA/PRODUCT/20041028/hlp4674.pdf

Manuals:
56 (right now both these links are the 46" model on Samsungs support site)
http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/UM/200409/20040920081244796_BP68-00423A-00Eng_0908.pdf
46
http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/UM/200409/20040920081244796_BP68-00423A-00Eng_0908.pdf

Quick guides:
http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/EM/200409/20040922092517234_BP68-00426A-00_QG_0831.pdf

Older models tweak threads:
85 Series:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=459140

HLN tweaks:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=244193

HLP discrete codes:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=412475
(also see remotecentral web site for downloads)

Older HLP issues thread:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=412073

PC use threads:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=260284

sounds like a great idea as I too am soon to be the owner of a HLP5674W set and will appreciate the info

I cant wait to hear more, I am returning my Mits 52725 and wanting to take a look at this new Sammy. I cant wait for someone to finialy get one and really compare it to some of these other sets.

returning your 52725 Mits?? It is a nice set but if you are troubled by the glare issue I agree give the HLP5674W a look. I ordered one and expect to view it soon. I had been convinced that the Mits was a better picture than the 5067 Sammy but now these 74s with the newer chip made me reconsider.

good luck with your Sammy to be and keep us informed of its performance!

Interesting. I downloaded to manual to scan tonight so I wouldn't have to read much tomorrow when I get the TV. Two observations:

1 - The dimensions on page 95 are wrong (43.07X13.35X32.05) based on the fact that a couple of people who alredy have them have verified the 40.6" width. I hope the QC on production was better than the fact checking in the manual.

2. Does it concern anyone that the first thing the manual shows you how to do is change the bulb? :D

I'll chime back in tomorrow night with first impressions...

I believe that the 40.6 inch is the correct width on the 5674. Bulb changing directions? LOL yeah at least they are telling us how to do it! Buy an extended warranty that covers the bulb burnout issue if you can get a decent price. I believe that the bulbs are $250 per!!

Ya get yours tomorrow you lucky bum!

enjoy

RML

The 56 is supposed to be 49.9" wide:
http://www.samsungusa.com/pdf/hlp5674_drawing.pdf

and the 46 is supposed to be 40.6" and thats what new owners have said:
http://www.samsungusa.com/pdf/hlp4674_drawing.pdf

The numbers in the end of the manual appear to be for the HLP4663 model.

Also I just double checked the 5674 manual from Samsungs website -- it is the 46" models manual also.

Hopefully these aren't the real printed manuals.

Good job Paul, my 5674 will be delivered on the 18th.

Originally posted by Hi Deaf
Good job Paul, my 5674 will be delivered on the 18th.

From where Hi Deaf? I've been looking for them too. Can you pm me the price you got with delivery? I have on preordered from TVA at this moment.

thanks,

DAle

Originally posted by mismatched
returning your 52725 Mits?? It is a nice set but if you are troubled by the glare issue I agree give the HLP5674W a look. I ordered one and expect to view it soon. I had been convinced that the Mits was a better picture than the 5067 Sammy but now these 74s with the newer chip made me reconsider.

good luck with your Sammy to be and keep us informed of its performance!

I am sure hoping the Sammy doesn't have the halo problems I am having w/the Mits. They are supposed to come and pick it up in a few days. Has anyone noticed this phenomenon with the Sammys?

Dale, I got mine from Tweeter in San Diego. I pm'd the price.

Originally posted by scpanel
I am sure hoping the Sammy doesn't have the halo problems I currently have the HLN56 and have never had a problem.(although this is the second set, the first one had a stuck mirror) Not sure what the "halo" problem is.

I know there's a lot of folks waiting for feedback on the 4674. I picked mine up at the airport yesterday, and set it up last night, so I haven't had much time to check in. But let me give a quick synopsis of my impressions so far before I sit down for a day of football bliss.

The set has definitely met my expectations. HD stuff looks great. Although, this being my first HDTV, I am surprised at the variability in the HD signals.

For example, the Clemson-Miami game looked good, but the boxing on Showtime HD was much better. You could see the sweat on the boxer's foreheads. I really like the black levels - one of the fighters was wearing all black trunks, and it was darker than the black speaker it blended in with on the bottom of the screen.

I calibrated the set with Avia. Out of the box, contrast was 100. I set it down to 80. Here are my full settings:

Contrast: 80
Brightness: 41 (turned way down from the factory pre-set. This is a bright set!)
Sharpness: 65
Color: 62
Tint: Not adjustable using HDMI or DVI

One other note - the manual is awful. Clearly not proofread. For example, the manual's selection of screen formats does not match the actual selecton on the TV - looks like they left in some stuff from the HLN manual. Owning two Denon products, I've become accustomed to bad manuals, and this one definitely qualifies. But that's a minor complaint - PQ is terrific.

Another thing I was concerned with was glare, as I have a double door of windows right next to the TV. Glare is non-existent - I can watch this set with all of the lights on and the curtains open and not see any reflection. A big improvement over the CRT it replaced!

As for some common problems, I do not have audio sync issues (yet) - with an optical feed from my RCA DTC210 to Denon 3802 for sound. I've never seen a rainbow, so I'm probably not the right person to ask. The operation is very quiet - no noticable fan noise unless you mute the TV and put your ear against the set.

Finally, the package was very easy for my wife and I to carry. The box had built in handles. My advice, if you buy locally, have access to an SUV, and the store doesn't offer free shipping - take it home yourself.

I'll post more later, with pics. Gotta go watch the J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets.

Originally posted by tjk

Contrast: 80
Brightness: 41 (turned way down from the factory pre-set. This is a bright set!)
Contrast: 65

Two contrast settings? Typo?

The "74" sounds good. It should also be great with your Denon DVD player.

Enjoy.

How sturdy does the center speaker shelf seem to be? Does the manual give a max weight for the shelf?

good question. If this shelf can hold a decent size center speaker unit that is a plus and makes finding a console/stand that much easier. you start adding in a AV receiver DVD player, "Tivo", cable box you are start a "running on full" !

Originally posted by htwaits
Two contrast settings? Typo?

The "74" sounds good. It should also be great with your Denon DVD player.

Enjoy.

Whoops! Second contrast should have said sharpness. I fixed it above.:)

Originally posted by pjr
How sturdy does the center speaker shelf seem to be? Does the manual give a max weight for the shelf?

I have an Axiom VP150 - 26.5" wide and 17 lbs. Shelf seems fine for that. I have three rubber doorstops at the rear of the shelf to tilt the speaker down a bit, and the front of the speaker rest just behind the bezel. I haven't had a chance to post a pic, but I will soon.

If you can believe Samsungs drawings the 5674s shelf will be 25" by 9 1/2" deep. People with the old Tantus models have reported putting 30 pounds of weight on the center shelf.

Took a picture of my 4674 with Finding Nemo on it, but I guess my camera was at too high of a quality setting and I'm having trouble posting it. I'll take another picture tonight, unless someone can tell me how to shrink the pixel count without losing most of the picture.

open it in photoshop and choose the Image menu and then click on Image size and adjust pixel numbers and size of image.

OK, with a little help from Luebster and Mismatched, here's Finding Nemo from a Denon 3910 connected via HDMI to a 4674. I didn't use flash for this one to keep the reflection out.

The center channel on top is 26.5 inches wide, a couple of inces wider than the back portion of the shelf, but the front part of the shelf spans the whole width of the screen, so there is plenty of support.

You can see why the narrow footprint of the 4674 was so critical for me. My wife wasn't thinking of home theater when she picked the house before we met.:)

Greetings,
Great photo...made me smile, too.
b.

I just email it to my self and it will ask you if you want to reduce the size.

TJK

The picture is very useful. One it is a great picture! 2. The size of your space looks very similar to mine which is also between a fireplace and a wall. I got to get one soon!

Originally posted by mismatched
TJK

The picture is very useful. One it is a great picture! 2. The size of your space looks very similar to mine which is also between a fireplace and a wall. I got to get one soon!

That space is 47" wide, so it didn't leave me a lot of options. Pulled the TV stand out a bit and angled it to fit the left speaker to the left of the TV. Side speakers on the TV would have obstructed the fireplace, and anything even a few inches wider would have made the wife furious. The 4674 (or the LG 44" or pending RCA 44") were nice fits. But the LG isn't HD2+, and the RCA 44" isn't out yet and may be HD3.

I also have an outside wall and fireplace to limit space. I moved left front speaker to other side of fireplace, maybe not ideal, but works. The further separation of front speakers does give a better HT sound. Your set-up looks great.

I put one of my speakers between the TV and the wall and the other on the other side of the fireplace and the sound is fine. I have about 60 inches of space to work with so I am thinking 5674 because we have a 45in 4:3 Mits rear projection set now and I believe that the 4674 in 4:3 mode would translate to about a 38 in screen so that might look kinda small....

Here are a couple of shots from Star Wars on my HL-P4674. Compared to the HLN467W I had before the set does have better blacks, it is quieter, it turns on/shows a picture MUCH faster, and the color/calibration out of the box is WAY better. No clay face or green push, both of which I had to go into the Service Menu and tweak out on the HLN.

The bezel is somewhat darker, but not as much darker as I was expecting. I will post a more thorough review once I get time to re-watch several movies I recently watch on the HLN. Unfortunately I did not get a chance to do any side by side comparisons between the 2, but the HLP is clearly better in terms of contrast/PQ.

Opening scene:
http://home.speedfactory.net/tracyrk/pics/4674_SW1.JPG

My setup:
http://home.speedfactory.net/tracyrk/pics/4674_SW2.JPG

The cabinet is 41" wide, so the set is a perfect fit, and pretty much the only RPTV that works. And yes I have a very high WAF :)

How is the horizontal viewing angle on the 74s?

Can you speicify different video settings for each input?

Anyone using a PC with this set yet? I'm very interested to hear how this set handles a PC input. Hopefully better then the Mits does and hopefully it will do a better job of POP with the PC.

Also, hows the PQ compared to the Mits (haven't found a dealer near me that has these sets yet?

The horizontal viewing angle is excellent, the picture still looks good to me over 60 deg. off axis. The vertical angle is much tighter, maybe 15 deg.

As far as video settings, yes each input can be set independently.

f300v10

How high is the TV? Looks like about 35 inches?

Gus

Gus,

Check these out:

Technical drawings:
http://www.samsungusa.com/pdf/hlp5674_drawing.pdf
http://www.samsungusa.com/pdf/hlp4674_drawing.pdf

It details just about every imagineable measurement.

Brad

Sorry I meant in the cabinet....

Hey tjk
Have you tested the DVI connection between the 46 and the 3910? What are your initial impressions of the player and TV?

Gus

tjk...you mentioned a couple posts back that you calibrated the set with Avia. What is Avia? Is it worth purchasing? Price (MSRP of course)? How does it stack up against a commercial/professional calibration in your opinion? Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Originally posted by kirknelson
Anyone using a PC with this set yet? I'm very interested to hear how this set handles a PC input.
There are a lot of people using the Samsung DLP sets with computers. You can find them in this forum or in the Home Theater Computers forum.

I'm using mine to play movies from the PC's DVD drive and from hard disk. All you need is a fairly good graphics card with a DVI output.

I'm using an ATI Radeon 9000 series card connected to the DVI port on a HLP5063. The current ATI drivers recognize the TV as a Plug & Play flat panel device at 1280x720. There is a learning curve involving drivers and computer software but there is a lot of help available.

As soon as I put up an antenna I'll install a HDTV card and use it for that too. After that I might start exploring all the PQ improvement options that are available with a PC. Right now it looks pretty good.

Originally posted by gsiokis
Hey tjk
Have you tested the DVI connection between the 46 and the 3910? What are your initial impressions of the player and TV?

Gus

Gus -

Haven't done DVI out of the 3910. Should be the same as HDMI, which is what I am using (DVI is output from my DirecTV receiver). Would there be any reason to think DVI will look any different? I don't think so, but I'll try it if you really want me to.

The DVD picture is awesome. Naturally some movies look better than others, but I popped in The Empire Strikes Back just to sample a couple of scenes and couldn't turn it off. And while this isn't the right forum, the DVD Audio and SACD playback is amazing. I haven't even played a redbook CD yet because I'm enjoying the multi-channel stuff too much.

The Denon really makes the 4674 look great, and vice-versa.

Originally posted by oregonstitch
tjk...you mentioned a couple posts back that you calibrated the set with Avia. What is Avia? Is it worth purchasing? Price (MSRP of course)? How does it stack up against a commercial/professional calibration in your opinion? Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Avia is a do it yourself calibration DVD. It sells for around $35 and can be had at places like Amazon. It is a must, along with a sound level meter from Radio Shack if you have a 5.1 setup. The other popular choice is Digital Video Essentials, which I've never used but is a little cheaper.

Avia is very easy to follow and helps you calibrate all of your audio and video settings with pretty easy to follow instructions.

I've never had a professional calibration. I'm sure it is well worth it, but I'm pretty happy with my PQ on the 4674. After having an analog CRT for so long, I'm fine with the settings I dialed in using Avia.

Originally posted by f300v10
The horizontal viewing angle is excellent, the picture still looks good to me over 60 deg. off axis. The vertical angle is much tighter, maybe 15 deg.

As far as video settings, yes each input can be set independently.


I would agree - the vertical angle is pretty bad. My TV stand is 24" high, so the set is right at eye level when I'm seated. When I stand up, there is a noticable loss in PQ, especially when I move towards the set.

One more argument for being a couch potato.:D

Hey guys, I just recently discovered some issues with my newly purchased Toshiba DLP 46HM84 set (HD2+) that are almost forcing me to return the set and go with a Sammy. I would be very very grateful if anybody reading this who has the xx74 models and a PS2 and/or XBOX could answer some technical questions . I've only got a few days left to return my toshiba set or I'm stuck with it. :(

Basically dvds look awesome on my tosh set but the videogames are quite a disappointment. I'm a game artist and I tend to be anal about the slightest visual issues, but this goes way beyond that. It's easily noticeable for even the most casual observers. Any medium to fast camera pans on xbox or ps2 (svideo or component) produce a combination of dithering and polarization artifacts. Another way to describe this is that it looks like a group of ants on the screen and on certain textures they will bleed out red and violet hues as the image pans. (it intensifies as speed increases-- goes away as camera slows down) I'm not talking about any DLP related rainbow effects here but a specific type of color bleed and dithering issue (among other issues). Nothing within the regular menu options allows me to improve these shortcomings I'm afraid.

It would help me out tremendously if somebody was able to test any of the following on their samsung xx74 sets to see these problems are noticeable or not (I'm running out of time and might not be able to test these in a showroom myself). If you don't have these games then attempting generic camera pans on other 3d games should be sufficient:

**PS2** (the issues are most obvious on this set)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Metal Gear Solid 2: -- go to first person mode, pan camera back and forth near a few walls and see if the low saturated colors turn to heavily saturated and high contrast color bands as the camera speeds up

Ace Combat Series: -- fly slow and point camera towards ground. There will be a "clay faces" type effect. Increase speed and constantly turn jet so that you are going in a circle. The clouds will turn to small dots and there will be flickering lines (not aliasing issues) near the ground and horizon

Grand Theft Auto 3: -- use 1st person camera to look around. Pixels will bleed funky colors like crazy and the dithering will be easily apparent as well.


**XBOX** (the issues aren't as obvious as PS2 but still noticeable)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Crimson skies : just move plane around in the 1st level and see if the skybox and water give dithering artifacts as you move camera back and forth. It doesn't take much movement to see this on my tosh. Also if you fly near the large rock structures and force camera to pan the textures will show obvious polarization "bleeding". (do this with any large structures)

Ninja Gaiden: Run back and forth at beginning of 1st level in front of waterfall. Look at the rocky wall textures. See if there are polarization bleeding issues as the camera speeds up. The grey rock detail will actually bleed off reds and purples.


Thanks for any info you guys can provide and sorry for my novel.

- Brian

Brian, I know exactly what you're describing. Although I don't have nor have I seen a xx74, IMHO the problem you're describing is, unfortunately, inherent to DLP. I have yet to see any DLP without this problem, including the xx85.

The other thing that bothers me is the swarming noise affect in dark areas of the picture.

Gus,

The shelf the set is on is 24" high. That puts the center of the screen at roughly 41" from the floor.

TJK

Findings your info informative! How would I "google" to find vendors for this Avia calibration DVD. Glad to hear you like the 3910 as this is at the top of my list alone with the 3805 AV receiver.

drool continues!

M

TJK

Follow up ?: How does the 4674 compare in PQ with your previous set on SD broadcasts?

thanks

M

Originally posted by mismatched
TJK

Follow up ?: How does the 4674 compare in PQ with your previous set on SD broadcasts?

thanks

M

For your question on Avia, just type Avia into any search engine. You'll get tons of hits. It's not a hart to find disc.

As for your question on SD, my last set was an 8 year old 31" Panasonic CRT (which I broke trying to transport it to my brother's house.:( That set gave me years of good service). I think a comparison is sort of apples to oranges.

I will say this - I find SD through the S-video input to be fine. Last night, my wife and I watched a recording of Desperate Housewives off of our SD Ultimate TV receiver. We used the full-screen mode, rather than the 4:3, because I didn't find the stretching of the picuture too distracting, and I liked filling the whole screen. That being said, HD is infinitely better, which is a big reason to buy the set in the first place.

Can someone out there who is obviously less clueless than I am provide a simple explantion of color tone (cool 1, warm 1, etc)? The manual just says to select it, but doesn't provide any information.

Factor default is warm 1. Should I keep it there?

Thanks.

For what it's worth, I find SD on my hlp 6163 (via DVI from a Comcast moto6200) to be much better than on my old Proscan 36"-er that I had for ~9 years. As everyone has said, though, this still pales in comparision to a good HD source.

in general warm = red/pinkish cast.

cool = bluish cast

white (neutral) = whiteish

And usually the Warmest or "reddish/pinkish" is closest to the industry standard, but results may vary which is what ISF Calibration is for.

Millerwill

So you telling me that the SD picture will be much better on my 8 yr old Mits rear projection set (Comcast Digital cable FYI)? I just brought up this issue because at Frye's and Magnolia HIFI when the sets were not playing a spiffy DVD they looked like -- meh...

M

tjk,
In the 3910 forum, some folks have mentioned some differences between DVI and HDMI.

Mismatched: Try Amazon.....they have it in stock!

Also, for those of you waiting on the 5674, like myself, TVA is expecting them on Friday (11/12).

Gus

SD

mismatched: Maybe my old Proscan was particularly bad (one could barely read the small print on the 'credits' after a movie, while thye are quite clear and sharp on my hlp). I find the SD--even the analog channels (#'s below 100) to be quite watchable (unless one has gotten too spoiled with good HD!) on my hlp 6163. But I do admit that I try to find something on the HD channels since it is so much more spectacular. So if it's something I truly want to see on an SD channel, it is quite acceptible.

I imagine the story is similar for the hlp xx74's, but I haven't seen them.

TVA

Excuse my ignorance but what where is TVA??

thanks

M

TV Authority. They are a big internet retailer of HDTV's, and have done many 'power buys' for AVS members.

f300v10

What are power buys?? And do they also deal in DVD players and A/V receivers??

How do I use TV authority??

What about warranties and returns repairs etc.

thanks

M

f300v10
Well...tell us about your initial impressions of your 4674...

Gus

mismatched,

A 'power buy' is when a large group of AVS users commit to buying a certain type of TV, and TVA sets a group price that is in theory cheaper due to the large number of sets being purchased. There was a power buy last spring on the HLP 63 series, and there have been others. I will let someone who as actually used TVA comment on your other questions. TVA does have an ad on the top of these forums.

Gus or anyone else

The 74s dont' show up for me on the TVA website. Am I missing something here??

M

gsiokis,

So far the set has been perfect, with the same sharpness as my old HLN, plus deeper colors and better dark scene details. The higher contrast of the HD2+ chip accounts for most of the improvement, but the default color settings on the HLP are also much better than the HLN. I will try and post a more in depth review with some more pics tonight.

M,
Call them directly or do a "Chat Online" from their website (www.tvauthority.com)

Gus

Originally posted by mismatched
The 74s dont' show up for me on the TVA website. Am I missing something here??
Here is the AVS Forums Members Only (http://www.tvauthority.com/AVS-Forum-MEMBERS-ONLY/AVS-Forum-MEMBERS-ONLY.asp) link.

I don't know why the HLPxx74 sets aren't up right now. You can always call their toll free number and ask. Let them know you are an AVS member.

An earlier post had already said TVS was sold out of their first shipment...

Thanks tjk for the info on Avia. I'll snag one in preparation. I'm waiting to see when Brandsmart in Miami get's a XX74 and what they'll sell for. My sales rep there is great on prices, bad on info. BTW, I know this thread is for folks who already have the XX74's. But may I ask opinions on why you guys (gals?) didn't go with a brand that had a receiver built in? After a year of waiting, I'm kinda a samsung nut at this point. But I am tempted.

Originally posted by oregonstitch
Thanks tjk for the info on Avia. I'll snag one in preparation. I'm waiting to see when Brandsmart in Miami get's a XX74 and what they'll sell for. My sales rep there is great on prices, bad on info. BTW, I know this thread is for folks who already have the XX74's. But may I ask opinions on why you guys (gals?) didn't go with a brand that had a receiver built in? After a year of waiting, I'm kinda a samsung nut at this point. But I am tempted.

The built-in tuner isn't important for me since I'm going to get the Hughes/DirectTV HD Tivo receiver at the same time (I'm already a DirectTV customer) and I already have an OTA HD antenna on the roof for local channels. Waiting for built-in tuners in Samsung products; which I can't really use would only be more frustrating, though I've considered it.

Question for those that have them: does the 4674 have any means of parental control over the controls on the side of the TV? I've got a 1 year old, who has great fun playing with the front controls on our current TV. It would be nice if it's replacement had some way of turning off the on-TV buttons so she wouldn't find them so interesting.....

Scott

Originally posted by oregonstitch
Thanks tjk for the info on Avia. I'll snag one in preparation. I'm waiting to see when Brandsmart in Miami get's a XX74 and what they'll sell for. My sales rep there is great on prices, bad on info. BTW, I know this thread is for folks who already have the XX74's. But may I ask opinions on why you guys (gals?) didn't go with a brand that had a receiver built in? After a year of waiting, I'm kinda a samsung nut at this point. But I am tempted.

Personally, I've never understood the fuss about built-in tuners. I have DirecTV, so it would be a waste. Even if you have cable, why do you need a tuner? I haven't used an internal tuner in a TV in 15 years.

I know the FCC is mandating it. I'm not sure why. Aren't government organizations (in theory;) ) supposed to serve a public good? How do TV tuners help the public? And why is the FCC also mandating TV stations to broadcast digitally? How does that help anyone (except for us nuts). I didn't realize A/V enthusiasts were such a powerful lobby.

It is my understanding that the move to digital will free up broadband space (to be auctioned off) and more efficiently use that which has been assigned already. I don't think our power as A/V enthusiasts has much to do with it.

So the broadband space the government auctions off will help pay our soldiers and their families for the war on terror and lower our taxes? Cool.:)

Ok, back on topic.

Originally posted by sdolson
Question for those that have them: does the 4674 have any means of parental control over the controls on the side of the TV?
I don't own a HLPxx74 but since I've never seen such controls on any device my guess is that there is no way to deactivate any of their buttons.

There is also that big shinny round button on the front of the set. It has flashing lights too. ;)

Originally posted by tjk
Personally, I've never understood the fuss about built-in tuners. I have DirecTV, so it would be a waste. Even if you have cable, why do you need a tuner? I haven't used an internal tuner in a TV in 15 years.

I know the FCC is mandating it. I'm not sure why. Aren't government organizations (in theory;) ) supposed to serve a public good? How do TV tuners help the public?

I'm sure you've seen those funny metal contraptions on some rooftops. Some people actually receive signals via those contraptions and need an internal tuner. They don't want to pay exorbitant fees for cable or satellite services.

Originally posted by falsedawn
I'm sure you've seen those funny metal contraptions on some rooftops. Some people actually receive signals via those contraptions and need an internal tuner. They don't want to pay exorbitant fees for cable or satellite services.

Yes, I understand that very well. Free TV is a public good. But an FCC mandate that ALL TV's, rather than some TV's, have an internal tuner by a certain date seems silly. Some consumers don't want that sort of "protection" that at least initally the manufacturers will be charging you for somewhere in their pricing. Without an FCC mandate, production would be in line with demand. If there was demand for internal tuners, manufacturers would include them and charge those people who wanted it. Seems like a silly thing for the govenrnment to mandate. It appears to me to interfere with the laws of supply and demand, free enterprise and consumer choice. And the affordablity argument doesn't hold water when you require a tuner on a $3K TV.

My point is, all consumers need security at the airport. Some, but not all consumers need an internal tuner.

FWIW, Crutchfield has extended their zero interest, zero payments for 18 months offer to Toshiba and Samsung products (it had previously been only on Sony). They don't have the 74's up on their site.

You will pay more at Crutchfield, but I know some folks are interested in this option, so I thought I'd post it.

I saw the 0% offer yesterday and chatted with a crutchfield rep about the HLP5674, but they said they wouldn't be getting them in stock until early next year (he didn't know whether it would be before or after the 0% ends) :(

Saw the 4674 at Tweeters in Dallas area, looked really good. Noticed that it had an area on top for center speakers. I was thinking about purchasing the 5674, do you think a 40 pound center is too heavy to put on the TV. Can it cause any damage? It is 22 inches long, so I am having a very difficult time trying to find a TV stand that will fit my center, as well as hold all my components.

Originally posted by htwaits
I don't own a HLPxx74 but since I've never seen such controls on any device my guess is that there is no way to deactivate any of their buttons.

There is also that big shinny round button on the front of the set. It has flashing lights too. ;)

According to it's manual, the upcoming RCA 44" DLP DOES have this sort of control (you can deactivate the front push-buttons via a menu entry). That's what prompted the question. Yeah, the flashinng lights will draw the attention, but if she can't control them, she'll lose interest in a bit.

Scott

I am really delighted to hear all the good reports on the PQ for the xx74 sets that the higher contrast provides. This presumably means (I am hoping!) that the even higher contrast of the xHD3 sets that will come out next year will be even better (not to speak of the higher resolution of the 1080p chip).

Millerwill

go ahead and tell us more about these sets to be! Complicate our lives ....

thanks

M

As I've worked in the TV station biz for 20 yrs I think I feel the hand of the broadcast lobby on the internal tuner issue. The networks do not want to be held hostage to cable and dish. A stand alone tuner is always an option, but that would be too forward for the nets.

I'm getting the very strong impression that everyone is happy with their XX74 sets. The move down to a 6 segment wheel and the odd ball "optical something or other" light engine seem to be overcome by the HD2+ chip. Can anyone address:
1. the progression on "light engines"
2. Where the xx74's "optical" light engine fits in that progression
3. What/when the next step in light engines is expected?

Can anyone comment on how regular digital channel (ie not HD) looks on their XX74 sets?

I just spoke with my contact from Tweeter.

They got in their first 4674 today and put it on the floor. He hasn't had a chance to check it out yet. One thing he said though is that the box lacked the Faroujda icon which led him to question if it had the well known scaler.

Has anyone heard anything about this? Do we know for sure that the Faroujda upscaling chip is in the 74 series? I'm not saying it isn't there, just referencing what he said about the lack of the icon on the set itself.

Also he did confirm that Tweeter is now seeing 12/3 as the date when they will get the 5674

Originally posted by sleong99
Can anyone comment on how regular digital channel (ie not HD) looks on their XX74 sets?

Better than analog, not as good as HD.

For example, the basketball games on ESPN last night. Regular ESPN was just ok. ESPN HD, the picture was much clearer and sharper, and the colors far more vibrant. (even though the games were not broadcast in HD). Definitely a nice picture, just not the "holy cr*p" pictutre that HD is.

I find similar results comparing the digital version of broadcast networks to the analog ones. I get digital OTA, analog through satellite. Analog is still very watchable - I watch them when I've recorded something on my DVR.

Originally posted by oregonstitch
I'm getting the very strong impression that everyone is happy with their XX74 sets. The move down to a 6 segment wheel and the odd ball "optical something or other" light engine seem to be overcome by the HD2+ chip. Can anyone address:
1. the progression on "light engines"
2. Where the xx74's "optical" light engine fits in that progression
3. What/when the next step in light engines is expected?

Well beyond my realm of expertise. All I know is the picture is damn good.:)

Faroujda is now called Genesis and yes the xx74 series are Genesis(TM) powered.

you cognescentis (sp?) are awesome

Originally posted by ks-man
One thing he said though is that the box lacked the Faroujda icon which led him to question if it had the well known scaler.
There have been sales persons who are confused by decals for a long long time. As I understand it, the right to display the decal cost money. Also Genesis now owns Faroudja and may want to get away from spelling problems. :)

Well I was hoping to have my set for the weekend so I could get a good report on out of box and original service menu settings for monday but Magnolia is saying port delays have the set coming in next Weds instead.

So to keep us who are waiting entertained, how about some of you 4674 owners giving us some more info on how your sets are doing?

Originally posted by Paul_PDX
Well I was hoping to have my set for the weekend so I could get a good report on out of box and original service menu settings for monday but Magnolia is saying port delays have the set coming in next Weds instead.

So to keep us who are waiting entertained, how about some of you 4674 owners giving us some more info on how your sets are doing?

Everything is wonderful so far. Except now I'm paranoid about that center channel issue we've been discussing on the other thread.

what center channel issue and what thread??

thanks

M

Originally posted by mismatched
what center channel issue and what thread??

thanks

M

This one:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=469037

THANKS

Originally posted by oregonstitch
I'm getting the very strong impression that everyone is happy with their XX74 sets. The move down to a 6 segment wheel and the odd ball "optical something or other" light engine seem to be overcome by the HD2+ chip. Can anyone address:
1. the progression on "light engines"
2. Where the xx74's "optical" light engine fits in that progression
3. What/when the next step in light engines is expected?
Well, since I don't see anyone answering your questions I'll take a stab at it. I think I've got this right though feel free to jump in if anyone knows better.

Light Engine Generations:
Gen 1: HLM models
Gen 2: HLN models and HLPxx74
Gen 3: HLPxx63 models
Gen 4: HLPxx85 models

The HLPxx74 models do have some sort of software handling of the colors that is supposed to get better results out of the 6 segment color wheel.

Initially there was supposed to be a HLPxx97 series coming out with a 5th generation light engine but that has been changed to be still a 4th generation (i.e. pedestal) model.

I think the 5th generation will come out either late 2005 or early 2006 though that is completely a guess.

Brad

I have to disagree with this ranking -- do you own one of these??

I wouldn't call an engine with the HD2+ a 2nd generation engine. It is at least as good as an HLP engine (which needed massive redesign just to blow up a smaller chips image to the same screen sizes as the previous one) and I would place it between the HD3 and the xx85 HD2+ models.

Remember the HD2+ chip is .8" squared in size and the HD3 is ,55" squared that means the HD2+ is more than twice as big in surface area allowing for much larger enlargement with simpler optics.

Also some of the HD3 engine redisign was to allow making a steeper mirror path allowing for a narrower box depth - that means the HD3 models have to have even more optics to compensate for increased keystoning.

Finally the HD3 chip uses half as many pizels with wobulation to serve two parts of the screen creating an artificially soft HD picture.

The HD2+ has the TI dimple fix and DarkChip2 technology which weren't in the HD2 so it definitely moves the xx74 models ahead of the HLN models.

The seven segment wheel on the HD3 models is the only advantage I have seen to the HD3 models - given that trade off vs the advantages above the 74 models come in at least as good as an HD3 and from what those viewing them have said a notch above getting them close to the xx85.

Just to add another kink into things.

The HLM and HLN (at least prior to the W1 change) mapped 720p DVI directly, pixel for pixel. It was easy to see viewing a 720p multiburst pattern from an Accupel test pattern generator, where you could see one row on, one row off. (DNIE disabled of course as the edge enhancement it adds would totally corrupt the high resolution portions of such a test pattern).

With the HLP's, this is no longer the case. There is some scaling going on (resulting in more overscan, 3-4% vs. just under 2% previously) and obvious scaling induced banding in the highest frequency pixel burst. So, in that respect the older models generated a more "pure" 720p image. I'm hoping this is something that can be corrected, either by Samsung in some midstream update or via some hitherto unknown service mode "scaling" adjustment. Very disappointing.

Are you talking about the 63, 85 and or 74 HLP models?

And are you sure that's true across all picture modes. I'm nearly positive I'm getting 1:1 over DVI from my HTPC @1280X720 in Expand mode with overscan, and at 1248X702 (or something) in 4:3 (aka native) mode with no overscan, on an HLP5685 series. Anyone know of an image file I can verify with - alternating single pixel rows of black and white?

thanks, jb

Originally posted by Cheezmo
Just to add another kink into things.

The HLM and HLN (at least prior to the W1 change) mapped 720p DVI directly, pixel for pixel. It was easy to see viewing a 720p multiburst pattern from an Accupel test pattern generator, where you could see one row on, one row off. (DNIE disabled of course as the edge enhancement it adds would totally corrupt the high resolution portions of such a test pattern).

With the HLP's, this is no longer the case. There is some scaling going on (resulting in more overscan, 3-4% vs. just under 2% previously) and obvious scaling induced banding in the highest frequency pixel burst. So, in that respect the older models generated a more "pure" 720p image. I'm hoping this is something that can be corrected, either by Samsung in some midstream update or via some hitherto unknown service mode "scaling" adjustment. Very disappointing.

I believe you can get true one to one with all of the HD2+ models (either the 85 or the 74 series). You can get it with the HD3 (63 series models) however due to wobulation it will look soft compared to what could be done before. Won;t get mine til next week to know for sure but other 85 posts make me sure it can be accomplished.

I think there is one point that might confuse some readers that are new to the many variations in Samsung model numbers. To refer to the HLP models and then discuss the characteristics of the HD3 chip can be misleading. The HLPxx85 sets are also "HLP" and have a very different light engine. And here come the HLPxx74 models. ;)

There have been a few reports of early HLPxx63 sets being exchanged for October release HLPxx63 sets. The owners of these new sets seem to think that there has been a noticeable improvement in PQ. I wonder if what they see as improvement is subjective or if Samsung has been tweaking.

Does the 4674 have an auxilliary outlet on the back of the set? I'm thinking of adding a fan to my cabinet to help cool the TV. It'd be nice to have the fan turn on with the TV. On the same note, is there any reason to think that extra air movement for cooling is necessary? I hear that the bulbs are a huge heat generator and the heat shortens it's life. My cabinet is 30"h x 46"w and isn't a tight seal around the TV.

Appreciate any feedback on this.

mayhew,

The bulb is in the left rear corner of the set (viewed from the front). I have put my hand very close to the fan exhaust when the set (4674) is on, and the air is warm, but not that warm. I think the set draws cool air from the front and it exits to the rear, so I don't think an extra fan is needed. You should have close to 3" clearance on each side, which should be more than enough room for the air to circulate.

Joe

Im staring at a Samsung HLP 4674, watching non-hd csi, with bars on the left and right. I would go fullscreen, but ive got a crummy cable box, which means I would have to go from component to svideo to get it to work. Watched a football game on it last night in HD. The picture is nearly perfect, but I could see some bowing of the picture on the right. I believe this would not be noticable with the picture filling the full screen.

Originally posted by Paul_PDX
I believe you can get true one to one with all of the HD2+ models (either the 85 or the 74 series). You can get it with the HD3 (63 series models) however due to wobulation it will look soft compared to what could be done before. Won;t get mine til next week to know for sure but other 85 posts make me sure it can be accomplished.

I hope that is true.

I've seen two sets where to my best efforts it was not achievable.

One was an HLN507W that had had an upgrade done (and had a service menu that looked like the HLP service menu).
I've seen two HLP5085's (HD2+).

I've also seen several HLP5063's where the banding in the high frequency looked similar but of course softer due to the "wobulation". In those, I first attributed it to the HD3 but now I'm starting to think it is related to this scaling issue.

Today I sat a HLN467W and an HLP5085 side by side and fed them the same resolution test pattern from the same Accupel HDG-3000 and the difference was very obvious. Perfectly clean on the HLN467W and banding/scaling artifacts on the HLP5085.

Originally posted by Paul_PDX
I have to disagree with this ranking -- do you own one of these??

I wouldn't call an engine with the HD2+ a 2nd generation engine. It is at least as good as an HLP engine (which needed massive redesign just to blow up a smaller chips image to the same screen sizes as the previous one) and I would place it between the HD3 and the xx85 HD2+ models.


I don't (yet) own a DLP. I'm planning on buying one for Christmas though! :D

I think I agree with you, Paul_PDX, my earlier rankings aren't right. I'm still not sure how to place the HLPxx74 models. They were created later in time than the HLPxx85 models so in that respect they should be a later generation. However, they are not technically as good as the HLPxx85 models so in that respect they should be an earlier generation. Since it is sharing everything the same as the HLN models with the exception of the DLP that was why I considered a 2nd generation light engine. That's misleading though since PQ is better than the 3rd generation ('63) light engines. I guess the HLPxx74 models are more like a 3.5 generation. However, that's the first non-integer generation I've ever seen!

One other question would be if there was any change in the light engine from the HLM to HLN models. I know it's the same HD2 DLP, but were there other changes to the color wheel or optics? If not then I may need to merge those two into a single generation in my rankings. If that's the case though then things are screwed up. The digiupdate web site has always referred to the '63s as being "3rd generation" and the '85s as "4th generation" so I was wanting to be consistent.

Brad

Originally posted by bgriffis
The digiupdate web site has always referred to the '63s as being "3rd generation" and the '85s as "4th generation" so I was wanting to be consistent.
Panasonic and Mitsubishi both had generation one light engines with the HD1 chip. Samsung started with generation two of the DLP chip. I don't think there is a logical pattern. The numerical order of the HLP models also represents different PQ levels. There was no such distinction among the HLM sets or the HLN sets.

There was no announced difference between HLM and HLN light engines. There were firmware changes at a rapid clip during that period. There was also a change in at lease one chip on the mother board because the SM option to turn of "black enhancement" went away between HLM and HLN models. I don't remember which chip it was but Panasonic supplied it for the HLM sets.

Originally posted by f300v10
mayhew,

The bulb is in the left rear corner of the set (viewed from the front). I have put my hand very close to the fan exhaust when the set (4674) is on, and the air is warm, but not that warm. I think the set draws cool air from the front and it exits to the rear, so I don't think an extra fan is needed. You should have close to 3" clearance on each side, which should be more than enough room for the air to circulate.

Joe

Great, thanks for the feedback.

For those who have the TV and are happy with the picture, just curious, are you plugging straight into a wall socket (or surge protector). Or, do you have a line conditioner? Just wondering if your great picture needs any help at all (and if I should save money on the line conditioner).

Does anyone know how to set the Samsung remote for a Scientific Atlanta cable box, because the codes are not listed?

How about video game lag? Anyone tried this out yet? Thanks.

OK, I have to eat my words on this one. The problem is that when you go into the service menu's it defaults to the "Wide TV" picture size mode. That mode does indeed scale and has more overscan. The 1:1 pixel mapping mode is the poorly named "Expand" mode which I never tried expecting per the name that it was some kind of stretch mode for expanding 4:3 material or something.

So if you have one of the HLP sets, make sure you set your picture size to Expand when viewing HD (720p) material. You'll get less overscan and 1:1 pixel mapping.


Originally posted by Cheezmo
Just to add another kink into things.

The HLM and HLN (at least prior to the W1 change) mapped 720p DVI directly, pixel for pixel. It was easy to see viewing a 720p multiburst pattern from an Accupel test pattern generator, where you could see one row on, one row off. (DNIE disabled of course as the edge enhancement it adds would totally corrupt the high resolution portions of such a test pattern).

With the HLP's, this is no longer the case. There is some scaling going on (resulting in more overscan, 3-4% vs. just under 2% previously) and obvious scaling induced banding in the highest frequency pixel burst. So, in that respect the older models generated a more "pure" 720p image. I'm hoping this is something that can be corrected, either by Samsung in some midstream update or via some hitherto unknown service mode "scaling" adjustment. Very disappointing.

OK, I picked up the 4674 yesterday afternoon to compare it to the Mits 725 I had previously. First observation is that 46" is way too small and will probably try the 5674 when avaliable. You just don't get that cinematic effect with an 46" tv and I have been used to a 52".

I have to say that I do like the fact that there is no glare but am not sure this set is worth the money as it doesn't have a HD tuner. I also do not understand why Samsung grays out the tint control on the DVI/HDMi inputs.

So I popped in DVE and did a quick calibration and it seems ok. I think the color on the Mits was more natural. Also, the whites seem to have a bluish tint on the Sammy. Black levels seem close to the Mits.

In addition I just don't think these sets have the same build quality as the Mits either, but I do like the thin bezel cabinet.

So now what to do...

After more tweaking today, as I posted in the other thread, PQ is improving, still wrestling with yellows that seem to be more limey, but other than that PQ seems good. HD looks great, and SD seens ok.

Now that I have a better idea of what this sets PQ looks like and I think the 5674 might end up being the keeper set for me. It seems to be the comprimise. Also the analog tuner is much faster (I had forgotten how fast) than the HD tuners, like the one on the Mits.

Anyway, I don't know that I will spend much more time with the 4674 tweaking as I will hopefullyhave the 5674 in the next few weeks. I sure hope the decoder in the replacement 5674 will be closer, but time will tell.

There is no way to disable side buttons, service menu or not. There are some pretty cool test patterns in the service menus, and the labels in most parts of the service menu are pretty understandable. I believe with some careful messing around, it would be possible to fix most color and picture errors. Boy does this set look good, Discovery HD theater is great, and so are the other thirteen HD channels I get here in Raleigh. By the way, the speakers are great too; I watched LOTR FOTR last night and the tv speakers can get loud, even when at about level 50.

I am starting to really get attached to this set too but the 46" is a little too small so cant wait to replace it w/the 5674. Then tweak some more and then eventually have it ISF'd.

Cheezmo, do you ever make it to San Francisco Bay Area?!

I have learned so much from reading this forum. Thank you to everyone that takes the time to inform the less knowledgeable. Everyone is so well versed it is a bit intimidating writing a question. I made a prev. attempt in owning a Samsung dlp, but returned it b/c of audio/video sync. issues. Like many other people decided to wait for the 74`s. Bought a 5674 from Tweeter yesterday, suppose to get in 3 weeks. Tweeter had a sale this weekend that was not advertised, for Avid members 10% 0ff, you become a Avid member when you spend a certain amount of money, I qualified after my last dlp purchase. Which leads me to my questions.
1) The salesman talked me into buying 250 dollars of monster cables, Do I need, and if not what should I buy? I am a comcast customer and will upgrade to a comcast hdtv box. I will not be hooking up to computer, but my kids probably will want to hook their playstation up. I will buy a surround system once I am sure the tv works correctly.
2) I also bought a 150 dollar surge protector. Is this needed? If not what should I buy. All these things were 10% off this weekend, otherwise they would of been more.
3) I need a DVD player can someone suggest one that will work well w/ this tv
4) Lastly how should I hook this whole thing up, I plan on getting someone thats knows what they are doing and showing them this thread and saying wire it, like these people suggested. Again thank you for your time, I have a feeling there are alot of less knowledgable lurkers w/ these questions.

Originally posted by wko
I have learned so much from reading this forum. Thank you to everyone that takes the time to inform the less knowledgeable. Everyone is so well versed it is a bit intimidating writing a question. I made a prev. attempt in owning a Samsung dlp, but returned it b/c of audio/video sync. issues. Like many other people decided to wait for the 74`s. Bought a 5674 from Tweeter yesterday, suppose to get in 3 weeks. Tweeter had a sale this weekend that was not advertised, for Avid members 10% 0ff, you become a Avid member when you spend a certain amount of money, I qualified after my last dlp purchase. Which leads me to my questions.
1) The salesman talked me into buying 250 dollars of monster cables, Do I need, and if not what should I buy? I am a comcast customer and will upgrade to a comcast hdtv box. I will not be hooking up to computer, but my kids probably will want to hook their playstation up. I will buy a surround system once I am sure the tv works correctly.
2) I also bought a 150 dollar surge protector. Is this needed? If not what should I buy. All these things were 10% off this weekend, otherwise they would of been more.
3) I need a DVD player can someone suggest one that will work well w/ this tv
4) Lastly how should I hook this whole thing up, I plan on getting someone thats knows what they are doing and showing them this thread and saying wire it, like these people suggested. Again thank you for your time, I have a feeling there are alot of less knowledgable lurkers w/ these questions.


Actually, I am not a big fan of Monster. Are you running a processor and Amp(s) or a receiver?

I have had great luck with BlueJeans HDMI Cables and Coax Dig cable, but am running Nordost and Virtual Dynamic Nite interconnects between my Krell HTS 7.1 and my TAS and B&W speakers.

As far as a surge suppressor, I actually am running a UPS so that in the event of a power failure the fans keep running on the DLP and my DISH 921 and can shut them down normally.

As far as the DVD player, I am using a Panasonic XP30 that ranked high in the DVD benchmark testing and possibly waiting for HDDVD. There are some new up-converting players coming out that are worth a look. Depending on what you want to spend, the new Denons 3910/2910 also rated high in the DVD benchmark tests and I might pick one up just to compare it to the XP30.

Originally posted by wko
Bought a 5674 from Tweeter yesterday, suppose to get in 3 weeks.

1) The salesman talked me into buying 250 dollars of monster cables

If I were you I would take the cables back and spend the next three weeks looking into other options.

There are good quality component cables that are cheaper than Monster cables and a lot of people here to advise you. As for HDMI or DVI cables Monster charges three to four times what good cables cost. Lots of free advice for that too.

2) I also bought a 150 dollar surge protector. Is this needed?

It might be a good idea but you can do better with a little research. I'll bet the surge protector was a Monster too. ;)

3) I need a DVD player can someone suggest one that will work well w/ this tv

With the TV you bought I would want an upscaling DVD player connected to either DVI or HDMI. Your new TV has both inputs.

The Panasonic DVD-S97s is new and has it's own "monster" FAQ thread. It also comes with a 6' HDMI cable.

Check out this thread. The first message is used to collect information about the player. You can read enough owners comments by going to the end of the thread and reading back-wards.

Panasonic DVD-S97S FAQ / Brain dump (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=463025&perpage=20&pagenumber=1)

4) Lastly how should I hook this whole thing up, I plan on getting someone thats knows what they are doing and showing them this thread and saying wire it, like these people suggested.

If you dump the Monster products and make the initial connections yourself you would have close to enough to pay for a certified ISF calibration for your set. The person you hire to do that can suggest the optimum setup for your family.

If you want to do it yourself and you are reasonably patient I would be happy to help you. Just PM me. If we get into trouble I'm sure someone will help us. :rolleyes:

I don't think you mentioned what source of HDTV you will be using.

First of all, great site...I am glad I have found it! I am building a new house and need some advice! My question is regarding the viewing angles with the Sammy xx74 sets: I am debating between a plasma or the new 4674 sammy in my entertainment niche above the fireplace. My concern is the verticle viewing angle - with a plasma, there is no problem....what about the Sammy xx74? I am thinking it would not be "optimal", but wonder just how much of a difference it would be? The main viewing area will be about 10-12 feet away. Thanks for the help!

If you are looking at above a fireplace, Plasma is the way to go for many reasons, viewing angle is just one. You can put it on an tilt wall mount to tilt it down as well. Plus the Plasmas are 4" vs 16" deep for the Sammy. The only item that concerns me and the reason plasma is an issue for me, is due to picture burn. If you watch channels like FOX, CNBC, etc, with stationary logos or tickers might create a problem. So thats why I am in the DLP/LCD camp.

Originally posted by gtsum
First of all, great site...I am glad I have found it! I am building a new house and need some advice! My question is regarding the viewing angles with the Sammy xx74 sets: I am debating between a plasma or the new 4674 sammy in my entertainment niche above the fireplace. My concern is the verticle viewing angle - with a plasma, there is no problem....what about the Sammy xx74? I am thinking it would not be "optimal", but wonder just how much of a difference it would be? The main viewing area will be about 10-12 feet away. Thanks for the help!

MY tv is 48" above my fireplace. Slight loss in brightness when I Sit on the couch, but not bad at all. My Samm 5063 is only 14 inches deep? I have 24 inches depth for my nook. Fits perfect. I think you'll be fine. If you don't like it, take it back to CC. ;)

Dale

scpanel

Consider the Denon 2910 DVD player. See their website and also a thread on this unit in this Forum. I have on order the 5674, a Denon 3805 AV Receiver and the Denon 2910. Denon is upper end but really does upconvert with results whereas some of the other less expensive upconverting DVD must be using mirrors or something.

good luck

M

oops for Arun

Consider the Denon 2910 DVD player. See their website and also a thread on this unit in this Forum. I have on order the 5674, a Denon 3805 AV Receiver and the Denon 2910. Denon is upper end but really does upconvert with results whereas some of the other less expensive upconverting DVD must be using mirrors or something.

good luck

M

Originally posted by wko
I have learned so much from reading this forum. Thank you to everyone that takes the time to inform the less knowledgeable. Everyone is so well versed it is a bit intimidating writing a question. I made a prev. attempt in owning a Samsung dlp, but returned it b/c of audio/video sync. issues. Like many other people decided to wait for the 74`s. Bought a 5674 from Tweeter yesterday, suppose to get in 3 weeks. Tweeter had a sale this weekend that was not advertised, for Avid members 10% 0ff, you become a Avid member when you spend a certain amount of money, I qualified after my last dlp purchase. Which leads me to my questions.
1) The salesman talked me into buying 250 dollars of monster cables, Do I need, and if not what should I buy? I am a comcast customer and will upgrade to a comcast hdtv box. I will not be hooking up to computer, but my kids probably will want to hook their playstation up. I will buy a surround system once I am sure the tv works correctly.
2) I also bought a 150 dollar surge protector. Is this needed? If not what should I buy. All these things were 10% off this weekend, otherwise they would of been more.
3) I need a DVD player can someone suggest one that will work well w/ this tv
4) Lastly how should I hook this whole thing up, I plan on getting someone thats knows what they are doing and showing them this thread and saying wire it, like these people suggested. Again thank you for your time, I have a feeling there are alot of less knowledgable lurkers w/ these questions.
They sure got you good. 10% off is available anytime for AVID members, not just during the sale. In fact, this model is not even on sale. The only models on sale were last years models. As for the cables, they are required to con you into buying cables, you should return them and assess what you need when you think you need it, after recieving the tv.

Monster surge protectors are okay, you may want to keep that, but the cables all depend on the type of box you are getting. A Scientific Atlanta 8000HD, for example, needs a DVI cable for best performance, an 8300HD, if you can find one, will use an HDMI cable. If you are going to buy a new DVD player, you may want to look for HDMI, as these are much simpler to use(1 connection).

dkyork,

I assume you mean your tv is 48 inches from the ground, in the niche right above your fireplace? I have wrestled back and forth with wich tv to get...have to make a decision this week as we are doing our electrical walk through on the new house and I need to tell them whether or not to leave the niche open, or close it in (and put a plasma there). One final question for you xx74 owners......have they corrected the lip synch problem? Was watching a friend's hln sammy and the lip synch was pretty annoying....thanks again for your help!
Shaun

Originally posted by gtsum
dkyork,

I assume you mean your tv is 48 inches from the ground, in the niche right above your fireplace? I have wrestled back and forth with wich tv to get...have to make a decision this week as we are doing our electrical walk through on the new house and I need to tell them whether or not to leave the niche open, or close it in (and put a plasma there). One final question for you xx74 owners......have they corrected the lip synch problem? Was watching a friend's hln sammy and the lip synch was pretty annoying....thanks again for your help!
Shaun

Exactly. Another thing to consider is having the plasma hanging above the fireplace. I have a gas fireplace and it gets very hot from heat rising. I had to set my tv back a couple inches in the nook, so the tv wouldn't get hot. I have a fan built in the fireplace, but heat still rises straight up. If you have a mantle that sticks out about 6 inches, you'd probably be ok.

Dale

The fireplace mantle does stick out about 6 inches, and I will have a fan on the fireplace. I was concerned about the heat from the fireplace for a plasma also....I was going to sit my Von Schweikert center channel on the mantle, in front of the tv (not optimal I know, but best I can do). I really want to lean to the Sammy 4674 to put up there, but have concerns with the viewing angle. From what I have seen so far, the Sammy DLP's do not suffer from off axis viewing distortions as much as my old Hitachi 50v500 LCD (got rid of it). Thanks again for the comments!
Shaun

I got a brief chance to play with a 4674 at Magnolia this weeked watched some HD video, DVD, and SD and briefly looked at the service menu there was a 63 model right next to it that I tried to compare it to (it was a 50' model so a bit hard to be apples to apples as a smaller set usually will look sharper).

I couldn't find anything really to fault with either the HD or DVD pictures -- both looked sharper than the images on the 63.

The SD to me appeared a lot better than it looked with my previous HLN617W1 but didn't look significantly different from the 63 model and maybe I would give a slight nod to the 63 but with the size difference it was really hard to tell (plus everything was split signals).

The service menu is definitely different from my 617 and I didn't try changing anything in the store. I know when my 5674 shows up building a default settings spreadsheet will be one of my first tasks before beginning to tweak. At least one post has now said ther is a 5674 in a store so I am crossing my fingers that I will have the set this week.

I posted this in the other forum as well, but for those of you that have a 4674, how is the color balance?

This set has a yellow push that I can not seem to make go away. Has anyone else noticed this?

Since were asking questions, has anyone figured out how to use the included Samsung remote with a Scientific Atlanta box, because there are no remote codes for it in the manual?

Magnolia's computer system reports that they have a shipment of HLP5674 sets in their Fresno warehouse.

This shipment is 55 sets for Northern California stores. There are 11 pre-ordered. It's their inventory week so that might slow down getting a demo to the Santa Clara store, but it's possible they will have one be Saturday.

So said the computer and a sales rep.

I just called as well and they tell me that they do have 55 and their truck comes Frday from Fresno, so maybe I can get one in the next week or so....

I did a search of this forum but had no results on this question......
does anyone know what the video resolution of these models are ?

8-bit, 9-bit, or 10-bit ? Since most DLP TV's only have 8-bit, which can only generate 256 levels of gray, and 10-bit produces 1024 levels of gray scale,
I sure hope Samsung have moved up to 10-bit resolution.

This will effectively eliminate any false contouring, clay faces and so on.
The Toshiba DLP sets have 9-bit resolution, and JVC's D-ILA sets have 10-bit video.

Maybe someone has a source at Samsung who can answer this for us.

Originally posted by scpanel
I just called as well and they tell me that they do have 55 and their truck comes Frday from Fresno, so maybe I can get one in the next week or so....
I'll bet you get one before they have one on display. :rolleyes:

Originally posted by Garibaldi
Maybe someone has a source at Samsung who can answer this for us.
That's a great question. I can remember that there was discussion about it early this year. The person to find out is ftlee but he is not very active in the forum right now. You might try a PM.

Another person who might know is seths.

My guess is that the HLPxx74 sets will be the same as the HLN sets -- 8 bit.

Maybe its me, I know the HD2+ is the big difference, but I gotta tell you, I think the 63 series chasis is among the nicest on the market. I like having a dark frame around a screen PLUS the chasis' aren't near as deep as the competitions. I wish Samsung had built the 74 series on the 63 chasis but what do i know. now i'm on the fence with the 5663 vs. 5674.

UGH! ALso, i can get a kdf55wf655 for 2800 or so, any thoughts/advice guys???

Aceman

Originally posted by jjesusfreak01

A Scientific Atlanta 8000HD, for example, needs a DVI cable for best performance, an 8300HD, if you can find one, will use an HDMI cable. If you are going to buy a new DVD player, you may want to look for HDMI, as these are much simpler to use(1 connection).

I believe that the DVI port (other than some isolated beta testing) is not enabled on the SA 8000HD. Maybe in a few months?

Anyone use a Harmony remote with these new sets?

Magnolia Santa Monica said today they won't display the 5674, only the 4674. THat could change, of course, but ....

Just heard from Magnolia and my 5674 is getting delivered on Saturday afternoon to replace the 4674. Cant wait!

I am still struggling with the color problems, and am hoping its just this set. I suppose I will find out soon enough...

scpanel

you getting your 5674 so soon. I have seen the 4674 in person but it is too small for my purposes. oh man jealousy reigns here. Seriously let us know as much as possible about this set and how you connect up your various components, cable box, Tivo, Receiver, DVD player etc.

M

I really am looking forward to checking the 5674 out. I have the 4674 and have not been pleased at all with the colors and think the Mits picture looked better. If it wasn't for the glare issue I would have kept it. The yellow and red push is over the top and am hoping its only this set. Others seem to be pleased with the colors from what I read.

Anyway, as far as connections, I have my DISH 921 hooked up to the HDMI, and my XP30 to the Component. I am considering a Comcast HD receiver for the locals, I made an appt for Friday for fun to check it out.

I probably will use the DVI input for the Comcast receiver for now until I decide on an new DVD player. I am thinking either the Denon 3910 or the 5910 when it comes out. But this Panny XP30 really does such a good job at 480P, its hard to justify spending 1-2K on a new player until the HDDVD players come out.

I have a question, is there a reason that the picture position shifts day to day? Ie I center it one day, next day its off center, I recenter and next day its offcenter again? This is from a HLP4674W if that helps any.

-pd

Originally posted by pdermody
I have a question, is there a reason that the picture position shifts day to day? Ie I center it one day, next day its off center, I recenter and next day its offcenter again? This is from a HLP4674W if that helps any.

-pd

I haven't noticed that at all on mine at all. Other than the color issue the set has worked flawlessly so far. Are you adjusting it in the service menu and its not retaining the setting?

Nah, the changes are made in the user menu. I just happen to notice as when I pull up my processors menu, it is no longer centered where as it was yesterday.

-pd

Where are you adjusting it in the user menu? I have not come across that yet.

Originally posted by pdermody
I have a question, is there a reason that the picture position shifts day to day? Ie I center it one day, next day its off center, I recenter and next day its offcenter again? This is from a HLP4674W if that helps any.

-pd

FWIW, my picture on 4:3 pillarboxed material was too far to the right. I have not messed with anything in the service menu, however my HD D* receiver has a function which allows you to re-center the picture, so on that receiver the picutre is perfectly centered. My other receiver (a SD DVR) has no such function, so if I watch in 4:3, the picture is slightly off to the right. If the lines are put there by the TV station, they are centered.

I'm probably one of the rare people that like to watch 4:3 in fullscreen mode. I think this set does a pretty good job of not distorting the center of the picture.

I'm sure most folks know this, but it is important to register your set at www.samsungusa.com/register.

It takes a minute or two, and Samsung extends your warranty by 3 months when you do this. Even if you get an extended warranty, this is useful because the Samsung warranty covers the bulb.

Just thought I'd let everyone know. Also, the serial number is conspicuously located above the power button on the right side of the set, so very easy to read.

Originally posted by scpanel
I really am looking forward to checking the 5674 out. I have the 4674 and have not been pleased at all with the colors and think the Mits picture looked better. If it wasn't for the glare issue I would have kept it. The yellow and red push is over the top and am hoping its only this set. Others seem to be pleased with the colors from what I read.

Anyway, as far as connections, I have my DISH 921 hooked up to the HDMI, and my XP30 to the Component. I am considering a Comcast HD receiver for the locals, I made an appt for Friday for fun to check it out.

I probably will use the DVI input for the Comcast receiver for now until I decide on an new DVD player. I am thinking either the Denon 3910 or the 5910 when it comes out. But this Panny XP30 really does such a good job at 480P, its hard to justify spending 1-2K on a new player until the HDDVD players come out.

Well I hope (not for you sake of course) that the color problems are not general ones but specific to your set. So your understanding is that the Comcast HD receiver will support DVI? I seem to recall hearing somewhere that the unit has such a connection but that Comcast doesn't support it...

I agree that spending $1-2K on a DVD player at this point is crazy. You might give the 2910 a consideration to tide you over until the HD DVDs become reality (like 3-5 yrs ??). There is a thread for the 2910 on this forum. I saw a 2910 demo'd on the same 60 " Sony XBR KD?? and compared with the 3910 and trying to see a difference on upconversion to either 720 or 1080 was tough. The 3910 has the convinenence of this Denon link (saves on cable clutter) and somewhat better DACs and will do a better job on SACD and DVD-As but the 2910 seems very nice for the price.

good luck with your new set

M

Originally posted by mismatched
So your understanding is that the Comcast HD receiver will support DVI? I seem to recall hearing somewhere that the unit has such a connection but that Comcast doesn't support it...
Support can mean a lot of things. :)

Comcast distributes STB's that have DVI ports. I don't know if every Comcast region has distributed such STB's to all subscribers yet.

Even if you have a Comcast STB the DVI port may not be activated by the local Comcast service.

If the Comcast STB DVI port is activated in someone's local area, like it is in the San Francisco Bay Area, Comcast will not answer DVI questions or try to fix DVI problems. When they install a new STB it will be connected with a component cable. It's up to the subscriber to supply a DVI cable and do the connection and configuration of the STB.

DVI with a Comcast STB (Motorola 6200) works fine for me. I have the STB configured to output 720p with 480i override turned off. I got my configuration information from the "Comcast" thread not from Comcast.

Originally posted by htwaits
Support can mean a lot of things. :)

Comcast distributes STB's that have DVI ports. I don't know if every Comcast region has distributed such STB's to all subscribers yet.

Even if you have a Comcast STB the DVI port may not be activated by the local Comcast service.

If the Comcast STB DVI port is activated in someone's local area, like it is in the San Francisco Bay Area, Comcast will not answer DVI questions or try to fix DVI problems. When they install a new STB it will be connected with a component cable. It's up to the subscriber to supply a DVI cable and do the connection and configuration of the STB.

DVI with a Comcast STB (Motorola 6200) works fine for me. I have the STB configured to output 720p with 480i override turned off. I got my configuration information from the "Comcast" thread not from Comcast.

htwaits

Hey thanks for the clarification of support! While we are on Comcast's back what are you hearing about the "soon to be released" HD PVR ? The only thing I could get out of Comcast was they still haven't decided whether to use a Motorola 2-tumer unit or a unit by Digio which she did not seem to know anything about. I will try to find the Comcast thread.

thanks

m

Originally posted by mismatched
I will try to find the Comcast thread.

There are a lot of Comcast threads in the HDTV Area of AVS (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=6) forums.

This is one of the biggest.

Official AVS Comcast / Cableco Moto 5100 / 6200 Topic! (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=194404&perpage=20&pagenumber=1)

Got the call from TVA today....shipping my 5674 today and will be delivered to my home on Friday! I will post pictures once I am up and running!

Gus

Just got my unit, 4674, very nice. I'll be sencore calibrating it next week after the bulb burns in. If anyone would like to have my numbers as a baseline pm me and we can work something out.

Also, i'm sure everyone knows this but run your tv non stop for 2-3 days when you first turn it on. I've installed a lot of dlp's and whether it's an old wives tale or not, the ones that run for 3 days continious have a longer lamp life in my experience.

Cinder,
46 or 56? I will pm once I have mine up and running....

Gus

Just talked to Magnolia - my 56" is delayed to next week 26th -- even though I ordered in October the Seattle and California stores have diverted Portlands early orders... The disadvantage of living in a smaller market...

Yay!

I also just got off the phone with TVA. My 5674 is supposed to ship out tomorrow. The real interesting thing, it's shipping from Washington state, which just so happens to be where I am. With any luck I should get it this week *crosses fingers*

Regards,
Frank

I don't know if this is the correct forum but I'm looking for some help. I recently purchased the HLP5063 and in some Hi contrast movie scenes I notice rainbows around the bright material. Does anyone know if swapping the set out for the HLP5674W would help out?

Thanks

You might check this thread --
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=467284&highlight=rainbows

the 85 series might better than your set but the 74 series isn't likely to make things better for you.

Originally posted by Paul_PDX
Just talked to Magnolia - my 56" is delayed to next week 26th -- even though I ordered in October the Seattle and California stores have diverted Portlands early orders... The disadvantage of living in a smaller market...

Paul

keep me posted on your 5674 from Magnolia. I was leaning toward getting mine at Chelsea because the speakers I am adding to complete my surround sound are B&W. did you get a good price at Magnolia? I have purchased there before. When I asked several weeks ago they acted like they had never heard of the 74 series. I obviously asked the wrong salesperson. Did you go with the Beaverton or Tigard store??

thanks

I went Beaverton -- I got a good price but I have also bought a lot at that store before (over 6K). I immediately started out with the question "whats the best price you can get me for the set and the four year performance plan?" The first price then offered seemed very good to me.

Tigard has the HLP4674 on display but Beaverton doesn't have one yet, I don't know about Clackamas.

Originally posted by Paul_PDX
I went Beaverton -- I got a good price but I have also bought a lot at that store before (over 6K). I immediately started out with the question "whats the best price you can get me for the set and the four year performance plan?" The first price then offered seemed very good to me.

Tigard has the HLP4674 on display but Beaverton doesn't have one yet, I don't know about Clackamas.

thanks. I will give them a call.

Originally posted by atomicdogg
Does anyone know if swapping the set out for the HLP5674W would help out?

It's very unlikely that going from a seven element color wheel to a six element wheel would help.

If you are watching in a very dark room then using a small back light behind the TV might help.

Originally posted by gsiokis
Got the call from TVA today....shipping my 5674 today and will be delivered to my home on Friday! I will post pictures once I am up and running!

Gus

I haven't received my call or email from them yet saying they have mine ready to go. Can you tell me when you preordered so I can estimate when I'll get mine? I Think I preordered about two weeks ago.

Dale

TVA called me today to say the 5674 is being shipped tomorrow and said it would take 3-7 business days, but thanks to tjk's advice I called back and ordered an upgrade on the shipping and for an additional 55 dollars they are sending it within 3 hours...for additional 191.95 they would send it next day....not really worth it.....and for those monitoring I pre-ordered mine on Nov. 2

ooops I meant 3 days oviously not 3 hours...though that would be cool

Originally posted by scpanel
Where are you adjusting it in the user menu? I have not come across that yet.

Im feeding the tv RGB so it gives me the 'PC' adjustments mentioned in the manual.

-pd

Dale,
I preordered on 10/21....No. 2 on the list according to TVA.

Gus

Ok, I have another issue. The timer light seems to randomly blink/flash. I mean I see it flash when I send any IR in the room, but it seems to continually blink after that as well. Sometimes it will quit for a few minutes, and after that it will pick back and start blinking/flashing, pausing for about 5 seconds, then blinking fairly fast for about 3-4 times. Looking in the manual I see no mention of this symptom so I called Samsung, but the call was pretty worthless. Also, it seems to blink even when the TV is off, ie I will have the red standby light, but the timer light will blink/flash green as described above. I have tried unplugging the set and what not as instructed by Samsung, but it did not do any good. Other than that the set seems to function normally.

-pd

Originally posted by pdermody
Ok, I have another issue. The timer light seems to randomly blink/flash. I mean I see it flash when I send any IR in the room, but it seems to continually blink after that as well. Sometimes it will quit for a few minutes, and after that it will pick back and start blinking/flashing, pausing for about 5 seconds, then blinking fairly fast for about 3-4 times. Looking in the manual I see no mention of this symptom so I called Samsung, but the call was pretty worthless. Also, it seems to blink even when the TV is off, ie I will have the red standby light, but the timer light will blink/flash green as described above. I have tried unplugging the set and what not as instructed by Samsung, but it did not do any good. Other than that the set seems to function normally.

-pd

I noticed this with mine too, but its interesting. it must be only certain remote codes that cause this. I noticed the remote code from my Panny XP30 causes it to flash, but it doesnt from my Krell or Dish DVR IR codes.

I was finally able to track down a 5674 to view in the Twin Cities, and I wasn't overly impressed. To be honest, I think it had to do more with the setup at the store (Ultimate Electronics) than anything - none of the sets did that much for me in that environment. It's too bad Best Buy doesn't carry this set, as they seem to have the best viewing area setup of all the major stores in my area.

Anyway, watching the 5674, I noticed that the scrolling did not seem smooth at all - rather, it seemed kind of "jumpy". I don't really know how to explain it, but there were minute pauses when it would pan. It felt like the picture was "sticking" every half second or so. Anyone experienced/seen this on their xx74 sets?

There was a 5063 right next to it that panned very smoothly. I'm hoping it was just an abnormality in the 5674, as I really want to consider this set.

There are lots of settings you need to check when comparing sets like that. Make sure they both have DNiE and Digital NR turned off for example. Those can add bizarre artifacts that are especially noticeable when standing too close in a store.

Originally posted by gtsum
...My question is regarding the viewing angles with the Sammy xx74 sets: I am debating between a plasma or the new 4674 sammy in my entertainment niche above the fireplace.

I have a similar layout where an HLP4674 would fit perfectly.
- 42" wide pocket door cabinet above fireplace
- viewing distance of 10' to 12'

Would there by any issues with shimming the back of the set to accomodate viewing from a seated position? I think we're talking 1/2" max.

Regards
RB

Originally posted by RBNelson
Would there by any issues with shimming the back of the set to accomodate viewing from a seated position? I think we're talking 1/2" max.
There shouldn't be if you stay below 15 degrees.

You sure it was a 5674 and not HLN? I didn't think the 5674 had hit the showroom floors yet as they are just now shipping.


Originally posted by Shag
I was finally able to track down a 5674 to view in the Twin Cities, and I wasn't overly impressed. To be honest, I think it had to do more with the setup at the store (Ultimate Electronics) than anything - none of the sets did that much for me in that environment. It's too bad Best Buy doesn't carry this set, as they seem to have the best viewing area setup of all the major stores in my area.

Anyway, watching the 5674, I noticed that the scrolling did not seem smooth at all - rather, it seemed kind of "jumpy". I don't really know how to explain it, but there were minute pauses when it would pan. It felt like the picture was "sticking" every half second or so. Anyone experienced/seen this on their xx74 sets?

There was a 5063 right next to it that panned very smoothly. I'm hoping it was just an abnormality in the 5674, as I really want to consider this set.

Originally posted by Bill Briare
You sure it was a 5674 and not HLN? I didn't think the 5674 had hit the showroom floors yet as they are just now shipping.

Assuming the sign was correct, it was definitely a 5674 - all the specs were inline with the 5674, as was the price. It had the thin, silver bezel, as well as the shelf for the center channel. The picture was also sharper than the 5063 next to it, which would indicate HD2+ to me. I was a bit surprised to see it myself - the sales guy didn't even know it was on the floor yet, so it's possible it was just put out yesterday.

So, as far as I know, yes, it was the 5674. They also had a Mitsu 62825 on display, which I believe is quite new as well.

Originally posted by Shag
It had the thin, silver bezel, as well as the shelf for the center channel.
The HLN567 has a silver bezel. The rear of the case is the same color as the bezel. There is one DVI port and three component ports.

The HLP5674 has a light gray bezel. The rear of the case is a darker gray. There is one DVI port and one HDMI port. There are two component ports.

Those are the obvious differences. I haven't seen them side by side.

Shag

I bet they had it set up wrong because the 4674 I saw at a local upscale AV store here in Portland OR was primo. At least as nice as the Mitsu 52725 and no glare (and no built in HD PVR!!).

Originally posted by Bill Briare
You sure it was a 5674 and not HLN? I didn't think the 5674 had hit the showroom floors yet as they are just now shipping.

Yeah, not sure if you saw the 74 or not. I did look at the 4674 and after anticipating it to just blow me away (probably mostly because I wanted it to) I wasn't very impressed with the picture quality. Then I looked around the store and saw that every TV in the store didn't look that great. So I knew it was the store's connection that had Directv HD signal split a gazillion times. When something came on that didn't have a lot motion, it had a chance to show a nice picture and I was really impressed. Plus they had the 85 series within about 10 feet and I couldn't tell the difference.

You mentioned bestbuy having a great signal to compare sets. My local BB looks great! I definitely agree! They are running a 480p loop that looks incredible!!! I figure if they are running 480p on an 85 series and I am in awe and I can't tell the difference with the 74 then when I see 720p on it, I will be very happy! I will be getting my 4674 in a few weeks. Gotta finish remodeling the room before I can pick it up.

To this day and after months of research and going to look at TVs. I still have NEVER seen good HD! I don't have any friends with HD and every store I've been to, split it too many times to know how good it can be. From what I hear from all of you and seeing the 480p loop at BB, I can only assume HD will be great!

Based on the various descriptions, I'm 99% sure it was the 5674. If anyone wants to check it out, it's at the Ultimate Electronics in Burnsville, MN...

I am planning to buy the HLP4674W using comcast HD cable feed.

Just curious....for those who have recently bought the HLP 4674W, which components are you using or planning to buy for your setup in particularly the DVD player. A/V receiver, speakers and cables (make and model no)? How do your like your setup?

Originally posted by jdmoser
I am sure you meant HLP5674W :cool:
Yes I did. Thanks for catching the error.

Originally posted by gsiokis
Dale,
I preordered on 10/21....No. 2 on the list according to TVA.

Gus

Thanks Gus, TVA called me today and I hope to receive it before Thanksgiving. The 2nd batch comes in tomorrow, you were on the first batch. Have about 50 people coming over for turkey day, so I hope it gets to my house on time to show it off with some HD NFL!!!!!

Dale K.

Originally posted by dkyork
Thanks Gus, TVA called me today and I hope to receive it before Thanksgiving. The 2nd batch comes in tomorrow, you were on the first batch. Have about 50 people coming over for turkey day, so I hope it gets to my house on time to show it off with some HD NFL!!!!!

Dale K.

I'm glad to hear about the second batch shipment. I just ordered my 5674 on Monday 11/15 & was told I was on second batch. On my confirmation the est. ship date was 11/29. Will wait a see what happens. Grizz

Originally posted by Shag
Based on the various descriptions, I'm 99% sure it was the 5674. If anyone wants to check it out, it's at the Ultimate Electronics in Burnsville, MN...

Typical, I was hoping it was up on the north side, but I may be out looking this weekend (I can't use the 5674 itself, but I'd like to see a xx74 series unit before I order a 4674). Since Ultimate seems like they're the only likely place to see one in the Twin Cities area, looks like I'll go look one up.

Scott

Question for other xx74 owners:

Is there a way to turn off Antenna 1 input so you dont cycle through it using the source button for those of us who are not using standard cable? I can not seem to find a way to disable it as all I want to cycle through is the DVI/HDMI/Component 1 inputs

I called Sammy and apparently there is no way to bypass ant1 with the source button. The only other alternative is to use the menu to make the switch.

Expensive HDTV and no way to turn off the non HD tuner....

Originally posted by scpanel
I called Sammy and apparently there is no way to bypass ant1 with the source button. The only other alternative is to use the menu to make the switch.

Expensive HDTV and no way to turn off the non HD tuner....

Yeah, I find that rather annoying myself. I'm going to buy a universal remote and just use discrete codes for the specific functions, so I don't have to cycle through them. Harmony680 is looking better and better.

Dale

Do you know for sure if the Harmony really has these discrete codes for the Sammy?

That would be cool so then you would store say the HDMI, DVI, etc.. seperately. I wonder if there is a way to get them coppied onto my Marantz universal remote...

Originally posted by scpanel
Do you know for sure if the Harmony really has these discrete codes for the Sammy?

That would be cool so then you would store say the HDMI, DVI, etc.. seperately. I wonder if there is a way to get them coppied onto my Marantz universal remote...

There's another thread in here with the codes I believe. Also, I heard you can call Samsung and just ask for them. IF you search in the remote control forums, you should find the samsung discrete codes thread.

Dale

Well, later today the 4674 gets exchanged with the 5674, cant wait. There were a few that were supposed to get theirs yesterday, cant wait for the reviews.

Quick update:
Received my 5674 last night about 8:30 pm EST....Still setting up today. Comcast guy is on his way over to "fix" some issues with the line. I will post pictures either late tonight or tomorrow.

Gus

My hlp4674 was delivered yesterday. We purchased it because it fits an existing built-in perfectly. 1/4" room on each side, but plenty of area to vent in the rear... So far, I am very pleased although I do notice the slight hourglass effect on the sides of 4:3 material. I can live with that. I agree with those who say this thing is really bright! We turned it down just like everyone else. This is my first HD set and I hooked it up to an SA 8300HD cable box through component cables...the HDMI output in the cable box apparently is not active in our area, although I am taking Time Warner's word on that. It does annoy me that the 8300's menus do not span the screen but are in 4:3 format.

I am waiting to pick up a new DVD player. Mine is an old Sony 5 disc that the best it has is S-Video so I am dealing with 480i...still looks better...but I am hoping for more. Hope to pick up a new DVD player in the next month or so. Waiting to hear what people finally say about the Samsung 941 (if it ever ships) before I commit. The quality of the picture seems much more dependent on the source than the TV. I even find the SD stuff is watchable. Overall, the set has met and exceeded my expectations. My wife is very happy with it as well. No rainbows so far, and that was with some pitch-black room viewing last night as well.

Questions: I cannot find the thread...how again do you access the service menus?

Originally posted by temtexdent
I cannot find the thread...how again do you access the service menus?
Here are the "enter-SM" instructions for the HLN sets. They are the same for a HLP set but the contents of the SM and navigation keys may be different. I haven't checked the navigation instructions myself.

Be careful if you do go into the SM. Then you should go "slow" and "taper off". :D

Find Samsung Firmware Version:

The firmware version installed on any set is recorded on the first page of the SM. There is a long ID number at the bottom of the page. The last three digits are the firmware version of your set.

Remember that in any dealing with Samsung you are not supposed to know your firmware version.

Instructions for accessing the Samsung Service Menu:

Anyone using these suggestions should know that I am passing on the wisdom of others and that I have no personal knowledge of the Samsung DLP TVs. I'm still waiting.

On the other hand I can recommend, without any reservations, recording all original SM settings before making changes.

****** Thanks to LCH. 09/02/2003 ******

Turn Melody off in the user menu (allows entering the Service Menu from power On state without using a lamp cycle).

With the set ON, press Power-Mute-1-8-2-Power in quick succession.
(If the set is already off, just do Mute-1-8-2-Power )

The service menu should appear for the input you were viewing before keying the above sequence. Be sure to give the set enough time to complete the process(30-60 seconds).

While in the service menu, you can change inputs with the TV/Video button to view the SM for other modes.

Use the CH up, CH down & select keys to navigate the Service Menu. Press MENU to return to the main Service Menu after viewing individual functions.

Later, you will use the VOL(+) & VOL(-) keys to change the SM values.

" ... when you access the SM on the 5063 (HLP models), the directional arrows around the "Enter" button control navigation, not the volume and channel buttons ..." MacGyver1970.

To Exit the SM, power off. Leave it off for several(30) seconds. (until all cooling activity is complete)

Well, got the 5674 this afternoon and have to say the severe yellow push is gone so the problem was with the my first set (4674). Color balance looks pretty good. Way too much overscan though but need to just let it run for a few days.

PQ is much better than the previous set!

How are you determining the amount of overscan?

Why would yo uneed to just let it run a few days before addressing your overscan issue? What input/scan rate are you using that you are seeing too much overscan on?

The only really "overscan" adjustment (other than when feeding it PC signals) would be if you are doing 720p over DVI/HDMI, in which case you want to select the "Expand" picture mode which gives you 1:1 pixel mapping to the 1280x720 input and about 1-2% overscan. (TV Wide is about 3-4% overscan and does some minor scaling).

Originally posted by Cheezmo
Why would yo uneed to just let it run a few days before addressing your overscan issue? What input/scan rate are you using that you are seeing too much overscan on?

The only really "overscan" adjustment (other than when feeding it PC signals) would be if you are doing 720p over DVI/HDMI, in which case you want to select the "Expand" picture mode which gives you 1:1 pixel mapping to the 1280x720 input and about 1-2% overscan. (TV Wide is about 3-4% overscan and does some minor scaling).

Is the PQ better with Expand on? I've tried to flip between the picture modes, but can't see much of a difference because it takes too long to cycle through. Right now I keep it on Wide, but was clueless to the scaling part on Wide mode.

Dale

Cheezmo, what I meant is I need to work on th issue. My DVD player is a 480P XP30 so expand is not an option, only wide. So I am thinking now is the time to pick up a new DVD player or maybe a DVDO HD+ ISCAN do I only use the HDMI input and feed all sources to the tv at 720p to reduce overscan.

Originally posted by Cheezmo
The only really "overscan" adjustment (other than when feeding it PC signals) would be if you are doing 720p over DVI/HDMI, in which case you want to select the "Expand" picture mode which gives you 1:1 pixel mapping to the 1280x720 input and about 1-2% overscan. (TV Wide is about 3-4% overscan and does some minor scaling).
Maybe the 720p feed is important. I'm doing 720p for DVD movies through DVI (HD5063) from a HTPC using TheaterTek as my software DVD player. Expand is one of my choices -- Wide (TV), Wide (PC), Expand, and 4x3. The only time I see Wide is when I use my old DVD player connected to component.

The same is true of my 720p feed from the Comcast STB through HDMI.

Cheezmo,

Do you happen to know the number of bits per pixel that Samsung uses for the HLPxx63, HLPxx74, and HLPxx85 models?

Cheezmo, I do have another question, the lower right corner geometry is not linear and wondered if there is a SM adjustment to straighten it out?

Also at 720P on expand over HDMI, % overscan is approx 5.5 on the right and left and 4.5 on the top and bottom. It would be nice to get them to 4 on the R&L and 3 top and bottom.

htwaits,

I am also using a Comcast STB but using the DVI and expand doesnt even come up as an option. I am wondering if its set up for 1080i? Also you know comcast, no instructions at all w/the STB. So I just need to do some research to sort it out. Its a motorola DCT 6200 for now until they release the DVR next month.

I am using my DISH HDDVR 921 on the HDMI for now.

I downloaded the user manual for the STB and sure enough I was right, it was set to 1080i, so thats fixed.

Originally posted by scpanel
I am also using a Comcast STB but using the DVI and expand doesnt even come up as an option. I am wondering if its set up for 1080i? Also you know comcast, no instructions at all w/the STB.
Yes I know and "love" Comcast -- so much that I have their very very basic service just to get the local stations in HD plus three or four others.

There is a special thread dedicated to Comcast in the HD section of the forums.

You can get to the "6200's" setup menu by turning the TV on and selecting the STB input. With the STB OFF, press "menu" on the STB remote. Sometimes I have to press "menu" several times.

At some point a very crude menu will pop up. It looks like an old DOS screen.

I have mine set to 720p, 16x9, and 480i override off. You might want to try that.

Once you get the STB outputting 16x9 and 720p with 480i override off you should get all four aspect mode options using the "p. size" button.

I haven't tried any of the other "6200" setup options.

Good luck.

Originally posted by scpanel
I downloaded the user manual for the STB and sure enough I was right, it was set to 1080i, so thats fixed.
Do you have a link for the user manual. I could use it. :)

have you figured out how to get the clock to work?

Originally posted by scpanel
have you figured out how to get the clock to work?
Nope. I haven't tried.

Here is the url:

http://broadband.motorola.com/consumers/support/default.asp?supportSection=HomeEntertainment

Originally posted by temtexdent
My hlp4674 was delivered yesterday. We purchased it because it fits an existing built-in perfectly. 1/4" room on each side, but plenty of area to vent in the rear... So far, I am very pleased although I do notice the slight hourglass effect on the sides of 4:3 material. I can live with that. I agree with those who say this thing is really bright! We turned it down just like everyone else. This is my first HD set and I hooked it up to an SA 8300HD cable box through component cables...the HDMI output in the cable box apparently is not active in our area, although I am taking Time Warner's word on that. It does annoy me that the 8300's menus do not span the screen but are in 4:3 format.

I am waiting to pick up a new DVD player. Mine is an old Sony 5 disc that the best it has is S-Video so I am dealing with 480i...still looks better...but I am hoping for more. Hope to pick up a new DVD player in the next month or so. Waiting to hear what people finally say about the Samsung 941 (if it ever ships) before I commit. The quality of the picture seems much more dependent on the source than the TV. I even find the SD stuff is watchable. Overall, the set has met and exceeded my expectations. My wife is very happy with it as well. No rainbows so far, and that was with some pitch-black room viewing last night as well.

Questions: I cannot find the thread...how again do you access the service menus? Where in the world do you live and howd you manage to be so lucky to get an 8300hd box? In Raleigh, there are two choices for cable boxes. We can choose between a 3100hd, and an 8000hd, which are in short supply. All I really want is something one step up from the 3100, that can output everything in its native format.

Originally posted by scpanel
Here is the url:
Thanks. Who knows what we might learn now. :)

Geometry on these is a mechanical adjustment of the light box. If they even had service mode adjustments it would involve digital scaling/warping of the image which would generally not be useful.

The bottom line is that these sets (I have the HLP5063) look great (I call it "pixel perfect") with DVI/HDMI 720p input in Expand mode, with DNiE and Digital NR both off. I would highly recommend using a DVD player that can feed it that scan rate/input.

I haven't yet tried to evaluate or determine the bits per pixel but I haven't seen any obvious banding (again, with DNiE and Digital NR off, with them on, it looks horrible).

That is one of the reasons I am looking at the DVDO ISCAN HD+, so I can push all 3 inputs over the HDMI at 720P. Then I never need to change inputs since the DVDO is autosensing.

Cheezmo, is the Expand mode only on the HLP's? I don't seem to have it on my HLN567.

HLN's don't need it. They did a nice clean 720p by default. For some reason Samsung decided that they wanted to have a little more overscan on the new models so they made it "Wide TV" by default. It really threw me for a while because I was used to seeing how clean it looked on the HLM's and HLN's while in the service mode. But, the HLP's throw you into Wide TV mode and suddenly I was seeing all these scaling artifacts. Only when I was in the store looking over the HLP5063 for purchase did I happen upon the fact that Expand mode is actually what the earlier models were doing. Just by it's name, I had never tried it because I assumed it stretched the image in some way. But Samsung has some different definition of "Expand", I guess.

Originally posted by Cheezmo
I haven't yet tried to evaluate or determine the bits per pixel but I haven't seen any obvious banding (again, with DNiE and Digital NR off, with them on, it looks horrible).
Thanks Steve. I am set up the same way and sometimes see some mild banding in long sky shot.

Before I get our HLP5063 ISF calibrated I have to make up my mind about upgrading to the HLP5674.

I saw a HLP 5674 today. It was connected to the Alabama football game in HD through a long component loop driving about 20 sets. The source was DirecTV.

The sets closest to the STB looked a lot better than the "74". This store has stopped putting the remote controls out with the sets. It looked like a bad factory setup.

I guess that when we get back from our vacation I'll have to haul my PC into our dealer and check out my test clips with a digital connection and the TV's remote.

Steve,

I had time early this morning to spend more time w/DVE and was real curioius about the differences with DNIe on vs off. The more I compared them it appears that with it on, the black level seems deeper. I am questioning whether setting this to off really right.

Turning DNiE on and off will clearly affect black level/white level and everything else. Do do a fair comparison, you need to readjust brightness/contrast etc. using test patterns.

I'm watching the CEDIA show on HDNet and do see some banding on the background as the lady talks about JVC's DILA, but I'll have to compare the same scene on my other TV to see if is in the source or not. Actually, I looked at some schematic info in the service manual, and it makes reference to som RGB 0:7 (bit?) signal paths which would seem to indicate 8 bit.

I've had several DLP's - the 52525 Mitsu, (awesome, to me, but too big for my cabinet, and the viewing angle not good enough I don't think, at least in the vertical way); the 4663 and a few others. I finally settled on a 42" Hitachi PLASMA for $2900 at CC. This is by far the best value and the best picture of the bunch. No viewing angle issues; excellent color - Consumer Reports rates it in close-second place to the Panny 7UY stuff.

My advice is to look at the plasmas again - the prices have dropped dramatically in the last few weeks. Mine can still be found online for $4,000. My only wish is that there was a 46" plasma that would fit in my cabinet - I know the 46" Sammy DLP's do/did, (no side speakers and thin bezel - I only have 43" to play with).

So, it's funny, but I have this nice thin plasma sitting inside an armoire...

If you can find a 56" plasma, that doesn't burn in, for $4,000, I'll buy it.

We are watching the Miami and Seattle football game in HD this afternoon and the picture looks slightly out of focus which seems strange. And the focus with the DNIe off is actually worse. Interesting. Is there a focus adjustment in the SM?

All,
Here are some photos...

Setup
5674 (Has been on continuously since Saturday morning as per the recommendation of another poster)
Comcast DCT6412 (Dual Tuner w/HD) to TV via DVI (Box is set at 720p with 480 disable - still playing with the settings for 4:3 stuff)
Denon 3910 to TV via HDMI
TV/Comcast box on a separate 20 amp circuit (Hospital grade) (Researching UPS to run both on)
TV to sitting area: Approximately 12' 4"


Initial Thoughts:

Pro's:
HD Picture is INCREDIBLE (especially 720p channels - ESPN/FOX)
Digital channels look great but obviously not as nice as the HD ones
The one DVD that I have played is Saving Private Ryan (60th Ann Edition) and it looked incredible upscaled to 720p - again, still playing with settings.
TV is very light - my wife and I lifted out of box and into cabinet

Con's:
SD channels are OK nothing to write home about. The Comcast guy who swapped out boxes on Saturday told me that they would be going to ALL digital in the next 4-6 months. Not holding my breath on that one.

I will more post later once I have the sound system up and running this week....

2nd Photo

3rd Photo:

4th Photo:

Originally posted by scpanel
Is there a focus adjustment in the SM?
No.

Unless your set is always out of focus something else is causing the problem.

Originally posted by gsiokis
4th Photo:

You must be pretty patient to have that speaker setup...

Waiting on custom cables....A fellow Audiogoner who makes his own cables and sells them at a fraction of the cost of other high end cables.....

www.signalcable.com

GSIOKIS,
Very nice set up! How are you venting the TV space?

Thanks and good question....It is actually a "fake" wall....see picture. Also, have cut holes in the back of the cabinet for cabling, ventilation, etc....

Gus

Nice pictures.............keep them coming.

I can't believe you have a space behind your HT furniture. Don't those speakers get in the way? It just seems like there could be a better place for those things. Are they Axioms?

Not really since this is pretty much a dedicated area for HT....Nope - B&W's (Bowers and Wilkins) Nautilus series.

Gus

But couldn't you work it out so you didn't need a back alley behind the tv?

What are each of those components you have going into your tv and receiver? and any chance of a PS2 being connected? and last question, how does the picture look in 4:3 or when using stretch/panarama?

Has any xx74 users tried an Xbox or PS2?

Originally posted by gsiokis
All,
Here are some photos...

Setup
5674 (Has been on continuously since Saturday morning as per the recommendation of another poster)
Comcast DCT6412 (Dual Tuner w/HD) to TV via DVI (Box is set at 720p with 480 disable - still playing with the settings for 4:3 stuff)
Denon 3910 to TV via HDMI
TV/Comcast box on a separate 20 amp circuit (Hospital grade) (Researching UPS to run both on)
TV to sitting area: Approximately 12' 4"


Initial Thoughts:

Pro's:
HD Picture is INCREDIBLE (especially 720p channels - ESPN/FOX)
Digital channels look great but obviously not as nice as the HD ones
The one DVD that I have played is Saving Private Ryan (60th Ann Edition) and it looked incredible upscaled to 720p - again, still playing with settings.
TV is very light - my wife and I lifted out of box and into cabinet

Con's:
SD channels are OK nothing to write home about. The Comcast guy who swapped out boxes on Saturday told me that they would be going to ALL digital in the next 4-6 months. Not holding my breath on that one.

I will more post later once I have the sound system up and running this week....

this is exactly the way I planned to set up my 5674 that will arrive within the week. thanks for the confidence builder. As for Comcast promises they better be sincere or there will be alot of us leaving cable!


M

Originally posted by gsiokis
2nd Photo
you copy cat. not only the same receiver and almost identical DVD player but B&W speakers to boot. ah person of impeccable taste no doubt

M

Subwoofer,
Yes...but I wanted the flexibility and discreteness of the alley. It only really killed about four feet of space - the room is approximately 16 x 21. If you look carefully you will see on the left is my structured media box (Leviton) it houses my phone line and cable line into the basement (BTW - this is all in my basement). I power my network, phones and cable from this box to my basement. At the end of "alley" I have a one coax, phone, Ethernet jack on the wall for "future" use (i.e., distro video/audio from my PC to HT, etc...)

What are each of those components you have going into your tv and receiver?

On top of the TV is the Comcast box
In the Rack (from the top)
Monster Power HTS-5100 (Surge/Power Conditioner)
Denon DVD-3910 (Universal Player)
Rotel RSP-1068 (Preamp/Processor)
Parasound Halo A52 (5 channel amp - Will drive center and two surrounds)
Parasound Halo A23 (2 channel amp - Will drive Front L/R speakers)

PS2
Not anytime soon...One of my friends owns an Xbox and will probably bring it over the next time he is over. I will let you know....

4:3
Digital channels are great. The SD ones are ok...my Sony Wega 27" does a better job. Have not really played with the stretch, etc....yet. I will let you know

Gus

M,
Thanks!
Gus

Originally posted by gsiokis
Rotel RSP-1068 (Preamp/Processor)
Parasound Halo A52 (5 channel amp - Will drive center and two surrounds)
Parasound Halo A23 (2 channel amp - Will drive Front L/R speakers)


Thanks for the list of components. I have a Yamaha 2400 receiver driving my Polk satellite speakers. What are the advantages of using these amps? I know this is off topic but who cares :)

on topic.......I checked my local Tweeter and they didn't have the 5674. This seems like a great tv but I still intend on waiting until summer 2005 to get a DLP tv. Who knows what will be next after the xx74......maybe a 1080p tv

Better sound/components....Depends on your perspective....most audiophiles will tell you that these are good/great mid-fi amps.

Gus

Originally posted by subwoofer
But couldn't you work it out so you didn't need a back alley behind the tv?

What are each of those components you have going into your tv and receiver? and any chance of a PS2 being connected? and last question, how does the picture look in 4:3 or when using stretch/panarama?

Has any xx74 users tried an Xbox or PS2?


I've hooked my PS2 up to it by S-Video. I haven't noticed any lag.

Originally posted by htwaits
No.

Unless your set is always out of focus something else is causing the problem.

Htwaits (and/or anyone esle!)

Although this ? has nothing to do with your quote your responses have been highly useful to me in the past. I now am the proud (broke) owner to be of a HLP5674, Denon 3805, Denon 2910 and a dreaded HD DVR Comcast box, along with the necessary Monster cable connections, DVI, HDMI, Toslink, etc. Now, I have been advised to purchase an effective surge suppressor and or line conditioner. I notice that these babies can run $600 or so. Do I need a conditioner until I realize that I have problems? Will a good circa $100 surge suppressor suffice? Can you or anyone else put me on a reasonable course. I thought I had everything nailed down and now I am faced yet again with myriad choices and ...

help

M

Search for a thread called "Surge Suppressor and clean power" It provides a great discussion of power for AV components.

Sorry I couldn't post a link. I haven't fulfilled my required 5 posts yet.

Brian

Originally posted by gsiokis
4th Photo:

Gus,

Sweeeeet setup!! I guess you were really waiting for the 5674 with that cabinet built!

I chuckled a little bit about the question as to whether the speakers were axioms. Not because it was a bad question, but because I have Axioms (with an M&K sub), and the Nautilus line is in an ever so slightly different price class.:D I have no complaints about Axiom, and I liked them 1000 times more than B&W's 600 series, but man do the Nautilus speakers sound good.

How's the 3910 setup treating you? I can't imagine a better picture.

Originally posted by htwaits
On the other hand I can recommend, without any reservations, recording all original SM settings before making changes.

If anyone runs into problems, I have the service manual for the HLP4674. I'd be happy to post responses to questions for anyone that has them (may take me a bit to get back to you as the manual is at home).

Originally posted by Cheezmo
The only really "overscan" adjustment (other than when feeding it PC signals) would be if you are doing 720p over DVI/HDMI, in which case you want to select the "Expand" picture mode which gives you 1:1 pixel mapping to the 1280x720 input and about 1-2% overscan. (TV Wide is about 3-4% overscan and does some minor scaling).

Using the overscan test on Avia, I had almost no overscan (maybe 1%) on the "Expand" mode (using a Denon 3910 through HDMI). On Wide mode, yes, it was about 3%. The overscan bounce test also revealed no change in overscan due to picture level.

Also had about 5 pixels cropped on each side, and 8 on the top an bottom.

The overscan bounce test is for CRT's. It would be pretty impressive for the DLP chip to move based on picture level ;)

Originally posted by Cheezmo
The overscan bounce test is for CRT's. It would be pretty impressive for the DLP chip to move based on picture level ;)

I'm way out of my league here. I just went through the tests to see what each of them did.:)

I'm sure this is answered 1,000 times somewhere else, but I'll ask the Samsung owners here -

What are you using to clean your screen?

Originally posted by mismatched
... along with the necessary Monster cable connections, DVI, HDMI, Toslink, etc.

I hope you got a "monster" deal on the price. There is tons of alternative cables sources here.

Now, I have been advised to purchase an effective surge suppressor and or line conditioner. I notice that these babies can run $600 or so.

Monster again? :)

Here is the "monster" thread on the subject. I'm linking you into a detailed message about different surge protection technology, but you should check the whole thread. Much depends on where you live and how often you could expect to run into power "black/brown" outs.

For my computers I have UPS/line-conditioning units, but all I have on the TV is a surge protector. If I improved my protection I would probably go for the rebuilt UPS that is discussed in the thread.

Surge Suppressor and clean power???? (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=2421176#post2421176)

This topic has it's share of witchcraft in the hands of an aggressive sales person. ;)

Originally posted by tjk
I'm sure this is answered 1,000 times somewhere else, but I'll ask the Samsung owners here -

What are you using to clean your screen?
More!

I like micro fiber cloths. The small ones are used as cleaning clothes for glasses and the big ones to wipe dirt of cars!

I got big ones at an auto parts store, but others have pointed out the places like Target have better sizes.

If you go the auto parts route avoid the ones with "special" cleaning chemicals added.

Use them dry or for difficult work, slightly damp. I've also used a small amount of lens cleaner (safe for plastic lenses) on the cloth.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=2421176#post2421176"Search for a thread called "Surge Suppressor and clean power" It provides a great discussion of power for AV components. Here you go blightfoot...

tjk,
Yep..I spec'd out about five months ago.....It has been completed and empty for the last three months. I have separates upstairs as well (Adcom Pre/Amp/CD player) pushing to B&W 550's which I have owned since 1990. Still sound great.....

Gus

Originally posted by jjesusfreak01
Where in the world do you live and howd you manage to be so lucky to get an 8300hd box? In Raleigh, there are two choices for cable boxes. We can choose between a 3100hd, and an 8000hd, which are in short supply. All I really want is something one step up from the 3100, that can output everything in its native format.

I live in Central Texas. 50,000+ community. We never are up to date on technology. But in this case all I did was go into my Time Warner office with my old box and said "I need a HD one and lets try the DVR"...and there we have it...she hands me an 8300...then they go looking for a manual to give me and they don't have any of those yet...so I get a manual for an 8000. So far I have generally been pleased with the box, although I cannot figure out why menus on an HD box would not be in a 16:9 configuration...and I have not tried out the HDMI port to see if it is active...

Originally posted by ks-man
I've hooked my PS2 up to it by S-Video. I haven't noticed any lag.

ks-man, got any pictures to share with us?

Also, how far are you sitting from it? what games are you playing on it? and do you notice it to be blocky graphics since you have a 56" dlp now?