Tony

It is reassuring to hear how much you like your NEC since, like Fingerscrossed, I have become very interested in this brand.

Was there a specific reason you went with the 42VR5 as opposed to the VM5 model? How well does it handle ambient daylight in the room? Is there an anti-reflective coating like on the VM5, as fingerscrossed said in an earlier post? Do you have your 42VR5 on a stand (in a cabinet or on a table or shelf) or is it hanging on the wall?

Since the VR5 bezel is silver or light grey as opposed to black or dark grey, have you found the light colored bezel to be in any way a distraction when watching TV? Do you have HD or std cable or satellite service and did you have any issues in getting everything to work as you expected? Finally, what kind of improvements would you hope to see in the next generation NEC?


Peter, will do my best to answer all.....

I went with the VR5 for two reasons. 1) The silver bezel went better with my whole setup and I actually like the look better. 2) the picture memory settings (6) and the way they are saved per input are a big bonus. All I have to do is click the up arrow on my HD-Tivo remote which changes the picture to 480p instead of 1080i when I go to a SD channel and the VR5 will change to "stadium" mode for me. Also when I change inputs to dvd, gaming, etc. it will remember my picture settings and stretch mode I last had. VERY convenient with kids and a wife using the panel everyday.

I think it handles daylight fine, but then again I don't have windows that shine direclty on it or anything like that.

I have it wallmounted. If you search the 2005 post pics of your setup thread you can see a picture if you'd like.

I have never found the bezel to be distracting. If the lights are off you don't even see it, and if they are on, to me it is not distracting in anyway.

I have DirecTV with an HD-Tivo hooked up to it. I also have an SD tivo for HMO purposes only, a PS2, gamecube and dvd player. I had no issues hooking them up all the way I needed and my Harmony remote made it all that much easier. One click of a button and every component in my setup goes to the input it needs to be on for that current function to work.

I guess I would have to say that the only thing I would change on a new generation would be a slight improvement in the blacks. I am not saying I am dissapointed in them now, but if you force me to make an improvement I guess that would be where. They would have to do this without degrading the shadow details that it currently displays however. As I feel this is one of their advantages over many other displays.

Good luck and let me know if you have anymore questions.

FINGERSCROSSED AND TONY17

As of today, you guys have made my life so much easier by helping me come to the realization that I'm finally ready to move on. Many thanks :D

I didn't realize that I've been following both your posts for a while now until I re-read the threads that discussed the NEC PDPs and consistently saw your names listed.

FC, it appears that you and I have been pretty much in the same position ... seemingly days, possibly even hours away from making that final decision, but then again, maybe not. Six months ago, when a D* repairman first told me about it, I was all set to buy the Panasonic 42PWD7UY because it appeared to be a relatively great value (which the PWD8UK still is). But I decided to research it a little more which unfortunately for my bank account suggested a few too many things that I thought I'd be unhappy with, although it continually gets stellar reviews from the loyal Panny legions. Now I'm looking to spend several hundred more on a NEC than the PW7/8 would cost and have been stressing even more on whether it's the right one for me?

Tony, thanks to your answers to my questions today, along with Plasma George's insight and the advice he's given me, I am pretty much convinced that the VR5 is probably my best choice. Yes, there were a few things I liked about the VM5 (a lower price being one, especially if purchased as an 'open box' from Tech4Less) but the included 3 year in-home warranty and the user friendliness of the VR5 ultimately wins the match between the two NECs hands down, especially if one considers that purchasing a separate 2 year warranty for the VM5 would probably raise the ultimate cost to within only a few dollars of what the VR5 will cost. Tony, you also mentioned your Harmony remote. I recently got the 676 model which I intend to use for my HT system and plasma. I'd certainly appreciate any tips you'd care to pass along. Please feel free to PM me if you don't want to take up forum space.

One other thing I still haven't fully resolved is the high cost of the NEC pedestal stand, which I'll need in my set-up. With the Panny, I'd probably have gone to eBay and found one for significantly less than it would cost elsewhere online. There doesn't seem to be the same low price point or availabilty for NEC pedestal stands on eBay. Since the NEC stands are themselves a couple hundred $$, I felt I might as well go with the more expensive, but more useful tilting Peerless stand.

Peter, congrats on making a decision, I am sure you will love it. As for the pedestal stand, click on the Plasma Concepts link above, they are running some specials on the NEC's with the different stand/mounts. As for the Harmony, the web setup is pretty easy once you get the hang of it. I really don't have any specific tips, but if you have any questions feel free to PM me. Good luck and take care.

I checked with Plasma Concepts and they won't have any VR5's in stock for another 2 weeks.

I checked with Plasma Concepts and they won't have any VR5's in stock for another 2 weeks.

Hi FC. Man that's a PITA!. I have an 42VR5 and labored hours, upon days, upon weeks of research trying to decide on the Pio or NEC. BUT once I made a definitive decision, I wanted it right here, righ now ;-) Making the decision is the toughest part...then the excitment and enthusiasm of looking forward to it arriving is great...then, ahhhh the bliss of watching. Good luck FC. Good choice.

Jack

Also, I tried using a component > vga cable, but it seems this panel does not allow the input to be used like that. It's in the menu and looks at first like you'd be able to change it to do so, but I couldn't. No matter, since there are 2 component inputs anyway, I have no need for this cable, it's going back. Next is to try the DVI from my 6412 hd/dvr.

Has anyone gotten the above to work? I was thinking of buying a Component-to-VGA cable from ebay so I don't need to swap cables all the time but is there something that I need to watch out for? I saw one cable auction AD mention that my source needs to support Y Cb Cr and not Y Pb Pr (I think those were the initials).

I'm just looking into hooking up my Panasonic DVD player through this input.

tks all!

Ty

I finally took the plunge!

I ordered the NEC 42VR5 from Seth at Visual Apex. I was also helped by Lauren who was as nice as can be. The entire process wasn't as smooth as I thought (not Visual Apex) but I'll get into that later once it arrives. Seth told me it would be leaving the distributor in 2 days. I mentioned to Seth that I was an AVS forum member and he gave me a great price. Very competitive with the prices you'll find on many of the pricing search engines but with the peace of mind that you'll actually receive what you paid for instead of wondering what shady character in some dank Brooklyn warehouse is doing with your credit card number and personal information.

Can't wait to get her in. Now I need to order some cables. I've heard Bluejean cables are awesome and a great value. I've got to get them in before the VR5 arrives. Damn I hope the VR5 is as good as I've read because it will be the first time I've ever laid eyes on it.

Congrats, fingerscrossed! My VM5 should be coming in any day now. I'm like you and this will be the first time I've seen an NEC in person.

The $ I saved in going with the VM5 was put towards an SVS 20-39pci sub that will be showing up tomorrow! I put up a Chief PDS2000 articulating mount on the wall already for the VM5 so I'm all ready and waiting for it...

I returned my unit to NEC (it had a flashing red pixel) and they were out of stock of the 42VM5As (to replace mine) so they shipped me what they said was the new replacement model - the 42VM5HA.

I just received it. Looks identical.

Anyone know the difference between the VM5A and the VM5HA?

Thanks.

R

I returned my unit to NEC (it had a flashing red pixel) and they were out of stock of the 42VM5As (to replace mine) so they shipped me what they said was the new replacement model - the 42VM5HA.

I just received it. Looks identical.

Anyone know the difference between the VM5A and the VM5HA?

Thanks.

R
Well I'm bummed to hear you had a flashing red pixel but it's nice to hear that NEC sent you a new one.

I spoke to 2 different reps at NEC and they both said the only change is a small component inside that was changed to meet some European enviromental regulation. They said it doesn't change the picture at all. I hope they're right. I based my purchase on all of the great things I read about the VR5A.

BTW, how do you like your VM5?

Just wanting to let you guys know....the VR5/VM5 are back in stock!

Just wanting to let you guys know....the VR5/VM5 are back in stock!
Good to hear. I just got the call today that my new VR5 will be delivered on monday. :D :D :D

Got the new digital HD cable box here and ready to go. I was going to order a digital cable from Bluejean Cables but there is no way I can wait for delivery. I'm just going to have to find some high quality cables locally.

My VM5 came in today! The delivery guy and I carried the box inside, and I took off the top and checked it out. It all powered up ok, so I put my homemade mount adapter on the back (while sitting in the box). My wife and I picked it up and put it on the mount. The mount allows us to pull it out about 30" from the wall and swivel it around.

The picture is GREAT as others have said. It looks just as good as the Panny PD50 I've seen in stores. Even when I get up close to it the picture is pretty clear.

I'll post some pics later, but so far so good! I'm gonna research the best burn-in settings. I just got into the service menu and found that the panel was indeed new when I got it, thanks Tech4Less. For those that don't know, to access the service menu hit these buttons (one after the other) on the remote (do again to exit):
Off Timer
Menu/Enter
Mute
Off Timer

Thanks for all the great advice from this thread!

The Eagle has landed!

I just got my VR5 hooked up through to my cable box HD feed using the cable company's component cables. What can I say? I'm thrilled and I've got the contrast, color, saturation, etc. turned almost all the way down.

I have looked at more panels over the past several months than I care to remember and this panel looks better than 99% of them all HD or ED. The only panels I've seen that rival this picture quality are the Fujitsus. The one thing that always bothered my about the Panny's (HD and ED) is the false contouring. The gradients bother me. Not this VR5. I can't wait to see it once it's been properly burned in, using the DVI cable and calibrated.

The V series of NEC plasmas are the best value and best kept secret in the plasma world.

I'll post more later after I've had a chance to play more. Thanks to all of my fellow NEC owners for your insightful reviews. It was through blind faith in your comments that I ordered the VR5 without having ever seen it in person. My faith has defintely been rewarded.

Congratulations 98GSR and fingerscrossed. I've had mine about 9 months watching DirecTV SD and loving it. Bought an H10-250, HD THIS FRIDAY!!!!! Enjoy

Can someone tell me what the difference is between the anti-glare, and anti-reflective screens are? Which do I want for mostly watching movies in low light? Also aside from the picture modes is there any quality difference between the vm5/vp5 and the vr5?

The V series of NEC plasmas are the best value and best kept secret in the plasma world.



I think you hit the nail on the head there. If only NEC would market a consumer panel somehow, I think more people would realize this! Enjoy your new toy.

Can someone tell me what the difference is between the anti-glare, and anti-reflective screens are? Which do I want for mostly watching movies in low light? Also aside from the picture modes is there any quality difference between the vm5/vp5 and the vr5?
I can't remember which is which but the VR5 and VM5 both have the same one while the VP5 uses a stronger glare filter. It's more geared toward people who will use the panel in direct sunlight or very bright light for extended periods of time.

I think you hit the nail on the head there. If only NEC would market a consumer panel somehow, I think more people would realize this! Enjoy your new toy.
I was wondering about their marketing problem as well. The VR5 is their consumer panel.

I was thinking it might be because the NEC is such a great value it would hurt the sales of the higher margin panels. The VR5 looks as good or better than many of the much more expensive "boutique" panels yet is as affordable as many of the cheaper panels.

I'm willing to bet the margins on the higher-end Fujisus and Pio elites and the lower end LG's and Maxents are better. The NEC makes them all look bad either performance wise or price wise. They'd rather you buy the cheapo and come back sooner or buy the ridiculously expensive models.

Congratulations 98 GSR and Fingerscrossed. I hope you’ve each found your new toy to be everything you’d hoped for and more. Good luck with it and I’ll be watching for your updates which, as you very well know, we who have yet to purchase thrive on.

Now that you’ve had your plasmas for a few days, how easy has it been to set-up and to integrate into your system? Is your TV source HD or are you watching SD and, either way, how does the picture look? What can you say about watching DVDs? Any issues?

Although I had decided on the 42VR5, I have not yet placed the order because I hadn’t decided yet from whom to buy. In the meantime, a local A/V dealer offered me the HD Sony 34 inch XBR960 (a traditional picture tube – but supposedly the ‘gold standard’) delivered for about $800 less than 42VR5/stand combo delivered. I really have my heart set on the plasma, but each TV has strengths and weaknesses that are tough to overlook (HD vs ED, size, weight, technology, reliability, etc). Financially, the Sony appears to be the much better decision plus it is from a local B&M store vs Internet vendor and is full HD. Maybe if the VR5 were $500 less, it might not be so difficult. Unfortunately, it’s just another tough decision that I’ve allowed myself to be faced with having to make.

Pete,

I noticed that Tech4Less has another open-box 42VM5 for slightly less than I paid. Mine had 0 hours and no problems when it arrived. I'll try to take some pics and post them shortly.

My VM5 was very easy to setup and integrate into my system. We're actually moving to another place in a month, but I still mounted it to the articulating arm on the wall for the time being.

The NEC is great in both HD and regular TV. I love the fact that it has multiple zoom modes in both HD and SD. I've been placing many HD sources in the 2.35:1 mode to fill up the screen.

Here are some pics: http://jonzone.homedns.org/Images/NEC/index.html

The first 6 pics are from HD sources on my Comcast Motorola 6200 HD DVR. By the way, the moire patterns are not visible in person - the display looks perfect! I REALLY don't see the need for an HD set instead of the ED (in our case).
The last 6 pics are with SD sources from my Tivo via S-Video in "Stadium" mode.

Thanks 98GSR. I'd been watching the site and only saw a refurbished one, but hadn't checked again until today. Tony17 has the VR5 and previously noted that the six picture memory settings and the way they are saved per input are "a bonus". How has the lack of these features affected you? Also, at what distance does the screen door effect become visible on your VM5 (I think I'm also going to post this last queston in a new string)?

Replacements for the current models.

No information about the any new model releases for the VR5 etc
Available with any dealers and websites.
I think since the VR5 and other models are near a year old, I guess it is the time for replacement. Even the NEC visual systems representative got no information except that he may know by October.
Many online dealers do not have the VR5 in stock

The just replaced the 42VR5A with the 42VR5HA. It's the exact same model only a different internal part was used to comply with European enviromental regulations.

The VR5 is starting to sell like crazy and they are just getting the new VR5HA's off the line. Did you guys check with Visual Apex?

Here are a couple shots I took. I'm hesitant to post them because they really don't do the VR5 justice. I haven't really messed with the color settings too much and it hasn't been calibrated.
These haven't been altered in any way other than resized.

http://img390.imageshack.us/img390/9486/eagle0xw.th.jpg (http://img390.imageshack.us/my.php?image=eagle0xw.jpg)

http://img391.imageshack.us/img391/3439/rocks9cl.th.jpg (http://img391.imageshack.us/my.php?image=rocks9cl.jpg)

http://img391.imageshack.us/img391/5381/espn8cq.th.jpg (http://img391.imageshack.us/my.php?image=espn8cq.jpg)

Thanks 98GSR. I'd been watching the site and only saw a refurbished one, but hadn't checked again until today. Tony17 has the VR5 and previously noted that the six picture memory settings and the way they are saved per input are "a bonus". How has the lack of these features affected you? Also, at what distance does the screen door effect become visible on your VM5 (I think I'm also going to post this last queston in a new string)?

I haven't really noticed SDE at any distance, but maybe I'm not very sensitive to it. I'll try to look out for it more and get back to you.

I was originally going to get the VR5 mainly because of the multiple picture settings thing and the discrete inputs, but I couldn't pass up the huge savings I got on going with the VM5 vs. the VR5. Also, I like the charcoal color of the VM5's bezel. The PQ is so good that I'm gonna try to set it and leave it. The VM5 does have 3 settings at least that I know of: Normal, Theater 1, and Theater 2.

The VM5 sorta has discrete inputs via the remote in that you can go straight to the PC input, the HD input, or the Video input with 3 seperate buttons. In my setup, my Onkyo receiver does all the Component switching, so I just hit Video to watch Tivo (on SVideo), or HD to watch the component source. Hitting Video twice or three times will toggle between the Svideo, Composite, etc.. inputs. HD will switch between Component and DVI.

Basically it came down to the $500 I saved in going with the VM5...

1.I am in the market for either the NEC 42VR5 or the 42VM5. Could someone repost the sheets with the differences between the two sets?

2.If these MSRP's drop or if the new models come out, (which I expect it to be very soon) someone please post.

3.Also where are some places to buy the NEC stands at reasonable prices?

yes, where can I find more info on the new NEX commercial models and what time frame am I looking at?
I could not find this info on the forum....
saw a NEC ED at my barbershop last evening and I was stunned with the clarity of the SD signal. it looked downright incredible!

GregP,

1. If you go back on this thread to post #69, tmac has posted the differences between those 2 models.

2. I asked the same question if the new models will be coming soon to the NEC Rep., but they said they are not planning to release a new line of plasma displays soon.

3. I bought an NEC stand from Buy(they won't let me post the link here) with the new visa card so I got like $30 discount but that's it. That was the best price I found. They have only the black one but believe me, it goes with VR5 too. Kinda two tone thing.

I've been following this thread for a while. I thought I was gonna buy the panny pwd8, even bought a stand for it already (just sold it on ebay yesterday), but I changed my mind. I think I probably bought an NEC after fingerscrossed and 98GSR about a couple of days (without seeing it before too). I was gonna get the VM5 but the saleperson called me back after I ordered it and offered me the good deal on VR5 so I took it. I think I dialed down too much of the brightness and contrast. What would be the right levels for the break-in period?

When I talked to the reps they told me nothing new anytime soon either, but I think that they are just being overly secretive. When I posted a while back, I think it was jcpzero or someone who posted a link to a press realease about new projectors that also stated something about new plasmas coming out shortly starting at $1,995....

http://www.necus.com/companies/20/NECSAM_Featurs6ProjInfocomm.pdf

I do know that NEC announced these current models at CEDIA last year, so I am keeping my fingers crossed that they do the same this time!!!

As per the e-mail from NEC visual systems rep, No new models are expected this year. They said their VR5 is back ordered and aware that they are in short supply.
Soon along with projectors .

But I do not believe that.

It is a year old model and I guess new Plasma display models will be in few months. Hopefully before December.

Johnson5:

According to NEC’s 06/08/05 announcement, “TheaterSync(TM) will be available in Fall 2005”:

http://www.necus.com/companies/20/NECSAM_Featurs6ProjInfocomm.pdf

…theaterSync(TM) external video processing unit will seamlessly connect to its displays..
…available in Fall 2005…




(Edited to indicate theatresync is an external unit, not a new line.)

1. Does anyone know if this HQV (theater sync) processing is built into the plasma display or is it something you buy externally?

2. After CEDIA hits and if there are no price drops or new models I am going to pull the trigger. It sure is irritating when other brands are dropping the prices and the brand your wanting is not.

3. Can someone repost the VR5/VM5 comparison chart in PDF. I am unable to download it for whatever reason.

Bump

About the TheaterSync(TM).

The TheaterSync(TM) is a new product that will soon be introduced at Cedia. This, however, is not a new plasma display panel.

If you read the articles more carefully you will discover that this is an "external video processing unit" that will work with either our plasma line or our projector line. If you view the hqv link you provided they even provide a small picture, it is of poor quality, but you can see that is[B] not a plasma display.

To clarify further about the plasmas, which again does not include the TheaterSync(TM), they will all eventually bear the "H" in their name. However, since the change isn't affecting performance,

NEC is not advertising a "new line" of models this fall.

hope this clarifies

Thank you for clarifying Johnson5. I have edited my post.

From the news release:

Also, for those users looking for the highest video quality possible,
NEC will soon be offering the NEC TheaterSync. This external video processing unit is powered by Silicon Optix's award-winning Realta chip which incorporates HQV™ processing.

Betcha it ain't gonna be cheap. :(

From the news release:
Also, for those users looking for the highest video quality possible,
NEC will soon be offering the NEC TheaterSync. This external video processing unit is powered by Silicon Optix's award-winning Realta chip which incorporates HQV™ processing. Betcha it ain't gonna be cheap. :(

But isn’t it simply changing the question from:

Compared to a Fujitsu. how is your ***p panel with an Iscan? to

Compared to a Fujitsu. how is your NEC with the HQV processor add-on?

To clarify the PX-42VR5A was just recently replaced with the PX-42VR5HA. All orders for the PX-42VR5A should be changed to part # PX-42VR5HA. The new "H" reflects the fact the factory changed a couple of components inside the plasma to be lead free to meet European standards.

As for newer models, there will not be anything new out this year.

FYI: The PX-42VR5HA is on back order. It is not surprising that dealers will are out of stock on this.

Hi there NEC owners.
Since all are so happy with their purchase, let me cool you down a bit. My NEC VP4 that is two years old and gets heavy use (16h per day) is just about dead. For the last week or so I noticed that my whites look dirty and I have strange, stain like patches of color surrounding faces and objects. It looks like oil on water -just like when you watch a tanker spilling oil on a river, predominantly in pink or orange tones. To make it worse, suddenly the tv started to show terrible image retention - not burn in because it disappears after few seconds but still it makes it unwatchable. Practically any bright scene is retained for a while.
I did not contact NEC yet, but plan on doing so. Unfortunately, my particular model came with a 12 mo warranty.
PS. Until last week, I was really happy with my purchase although it was clear that picture was getting steadily darker with time.

Hi there NEC owners.
Since all are so happy with their purchase, let me cool you down a bit. My NEC VP4 that is two years old and gets heavy use (16h per day) is just about dead. For the last week or so I noticed that my whites look dirty and I have strange, stain like patches of color surrounding faces and objects. It looks like oil on water -just like when you watch a tanker spilling oil on a river, predominantly in pink or orange tones. To make it worse, suddenly the tv started to show terrible image retention - not burn in because it disappears after few seconds but still it makes it unwatchable. Practically any bright scene is retained for a while.
I did not contact NEC yet, but plan on doing so. Unfortunately, my particular model came with a 12 mo warranty.
PS. Until last week, I was really happy with my purchase although it was clear that picture was getting steadily darker with time.
Sorry to hear about your problem Island.

Obviously we can't look two years into the future so I can't say for sure my new VR5 won't have the same problem but I'm confident the quality of all plasmas increases with every make. Hopefull if there is a problem the 3 year warranty will take care of it.

BTW I got to use my new VR5 for almost a week before Katrina hit. We've been without power since she hit and I don't think we'll have any power any time soon. I'm lucky I still have my house and my plasma at all.

Repairing NEC plasmas.
NEC VSD Customer Service
1-800-836-0655

Call this number and find out which is the repair (service) center nearest to you.
The present NEC home plasmas have 1 year warranty for the glass and 3 years for the electronics. The electronics are robust as there is not much difference from home consumer models and the Industrial models.

The NEC repair centers will come home if one is with in 50 mile Radius. If not, one needs to take the plasma TV to the repair center...

Several of my friends have several flat panel TVs. Usually some problems come up such as blown cap, resistors etc. Sony, Hitachi all of them needed some service including mine which functioned well for 3 years.

Plasma TV consumers power and need a good power (voltage and amperage and non over loaded power circuit. It is good and safe bet to connect to a non restrictive power conditioner and not to use it during thunder storms.

I have seen them in few medical schools and the audiovisual departments recommended and some of friends purchased them though it is a less known brand based upon the recommendation of the AV department and their technicians. They are all happy.

I also want to buy one but I can not locate the VR5 SHA model. I will wait another 2 weeks so that I will know more about the Theater sync product. The commercial models and the few home models are working flawlessly from the last 2 years.

This sucks! I hope NEC drops their prices soon otherwise I am going to see if I can find a Costco Pioneer. One member said they are now the same price as a panny ed. I just cant see spending more on the NEC Ed than a Pio HD. It seems like most other brands have dropped their prices. My last straw with the NEC is at CEDIA, otherwise I am going with something else. Real frusterated, I want my plasma now.

So here is an update on my broken down VP4. I contacted NEC today at the number above(thanks Johnson5). After a few minutes I was able to convince the rep that I deserve some help despite the fact that my TV is 9 months after guarantee (it is the industrial model with 1 year coverage). He agreed to pay for an authorized repair person to take a look . They showed up at my home few hours later (!) and determined that it was some kind of an internal video board that needs to be ordered from the company. They will contact NEC on Tuesday (long weekend) and let me know if they will cover the cost of repair.
Few comments:
- If NEC will also cover the repair, I will have to say that the service NEC provides is outstanding.
- The repairman was able to tell right away what is wrong, which means that it is a common problem - you decide what it means to you.
- The repairman said that plasmas tend to fail more in terms of electronic components than the glass. I am not sure if he meant NEC plasma or plasmas in general (he is NEC authorized and this is the only authorization on his business card). At the same time he said that NEC is much better in electronics then other brands.

Another quick update.
Unfortunately, NEC said no to repairing my unit free of charge. Further more, they gave me a repair estimate of $3,100! That is $500 more than what I originally paid for the unit in November 2003. :(

I have heard two different listing for warranties on the NEC VM5.

- Does the NEC VM5 have a 1 year or a 3 year parts and labor warranty?
I know the VR5 has 3 year on parts but I am confused on the VM5


P.S. Tech 4 less claims its 3 years everytime I have called

NEC VR5 is one product I was thinking about purchasing. If repair costs more than what one paid for it
Not worth it. Thanks for posting.
Have a good NEC customer service
.Addiios.Have a good day NEC
Thanks for posting.

Johnson5: In all fairness, high-priced PDP repairs are not uncommon. It well known that it generally cheaper to buy an entire new model plasma than repair just a screen on an older plasma! So, a big repair bill by itself is not noteworthy.

More relevant is the repair record statistic. Consumers report has owner reported repair records for "TVs" (Eg. it could show 7% of Sonys but only 3% of brand x). But I don’t know of available repair record statistics for PDPs.

Actually, the 3 year warrantee on NECs is better than the standard 1 year. Also, I understand that NEC guts are held in high regard, buy don’t ask me to confirm.

I just wanted to repeat and rephrase my question

Does the NEC VM5 have a 1-year or a 3year warranty on the parts and labor (i know the screen is for sure only a 1-year warranty)?

My understanding greg is that the VM5 only has a 1 year warranty. The VR5 has the 3 year. I liked the VM5 bezel better but went with the VR5 for the 3 year warranty.

I'v just picked up one of these nice plasmas and have only one real question, which dvd player will best enhance this tv?
I'm kinda looking at the latest sony NS9100 but would 14 bit be overkill for this tv?

Thx Will.

Rover, to tell you the truth I have not found one DVD player, including the Zenith DVB318 upconverting player, that comes close to the internal scaler in this tv. I feed it 480i and can't find a better picture. Save your money on an expensive player if you ask me.

So my dear NEC ED fanatics, after my VP4 died (see my posts on previous page), I picked up Panny ED (the 8UK model). Have it now for two days and here are my initial impressions keeping in mind that I use exactly the same hookups as for the NEC and my primary concern is standard definition digital cable and satellite. Scale 0-20 where NEC is 10):
Scalar - Nec 10; Panny 8
Picture clarity and smoothness - Nec 10; Panny 8
Bending or color graduation - Nec 10; Panny 15
Amplification (or lack of) of crappy signal imperfections - Nec 10; Panny 7
Black level - Nec 10; Panny 9 (where is all the panny fus?)
Brightness - Nec 10; Panny 7
Ease of access to various adjustments - Nec 10; Panny 15
Remote - Nec 10; Panny 20

This subjective rating is based on watching different cable channels. I have to admit that for good quality channels Panny is doing much better in overall picture quality. Nec was just simply outstanding no matter how bad signal was. Also HD (via component) is comparable on both sets with slight advantage to NEC due to Panny's lower brightness. Also, both sets were adjusted to half scale for brightness. Other adjustments were done with AVIA but than changed to my liking. I had no chance to test DVD yet. BTW, when it comes to standard crappy cable signal, s-vid works better on panny than component. On NEC there was almost no difference.
Overall Panny is also not bad, I'm just hoping that it will last more than 20 months NEC did.

So my dear NEC ED fanatics, after my VP4 died (see my posts on previous page), I picked up Panny ED (the 8UK model). Have it now for two days and here are my initial impressions keeping in mind that I use exactly the same hookups as for the NEC and my primary concern is standard definition digital cable and satellite. Scale 0-20 where NEC is 10):
Scalar - Nec 10; Panny 8
Picture clarity and smoothness - Nec 10; Panny 8
Bending or color graduation - Nec 10; Panny 15
Amplification (or lack of) of crappy signal imperfections - Nec 10; Panny 7
Black level - Nec 10; Panny 9 (where is all the panny fus?)
Brightness - Nec 10; Panny 7
Ease of access to various adjustments - Nec 10; Panny 15
Remote - Nec 10; Panny 20

This subjective rating is based on watching different cable channels. I have to admit that for good quality channels Panny is doing much better in overall picture quality. Nec was just simply outstanding no matter how bad signal was. Also HD (via component) is comparable on both sets with slight advantage to NEC due to Panny's lower brightness. Also, both sets were adjusted to half scale for brightness. Other adjustments were done with AVIA but than changed to my liking. I had no chance to test DVD yet. BTW, when it comes to standard crappy cable signal, s-vid works better on panny than component. On NEC there was almost no difference.
Overall Panny is also not bad, I'm just hoping that it will last more than 20 months NEC did.

Wow, when a 2yr old (almost 3 now) NEC is holding up to, or in most cases beating a just released Panny, that has to say something for the NEC. Thanks for the comments Island.

Rover, to tell you the truth I have not found one DVD player, including the Zenith DVB318 upconverting player, that comes close to the internal scaler in this tv. I feed it 480i and can't find a better picture. Save your money on an expensive player if you ask me.

I now have the NS9100ES and res@720p(no 480 on this player) and the pic looks breathtaking!

Will.

Wow, when a 2yr old (almost 3 now) NEC is holding up to, or in most cases beating a just released Panny, that has to say something for the NEC. Thanks for the comments Island.

NEC also have newer models out in Nov/Dec, the 42 XR4 being one.

NEC also have newer models out in Nov/Dec, the 42 XR4 being one.


Believe me rover, I am all over the 42xr4. I will be picking one up for myself and one for my father as soon as they are shipping. Plasma Concepts hates me already. Every week I call for pricing/availability they tell me to call in one week....and you know I do. Unfortunately I get the same answer.

I really can't wait for this panel though. It is going to have all of NEC advantages (PQ, stretch modes, scaler) plus improved blacks. But the plus is, it is going to have a ton of features that the Pioneer Elite has, such as 2 hdmi inputs, night and day picture memory settings, etc. Going to be an awesome panel...and looks pretty sweet asthetically as well!

tony17,
We definitely do not hate you. And you are correct, these new NEC panels looked awesome when I viewed them at CEDIA. As soon as we get them in, trust me, they will be up on the site and available for you to purchase. Please let me know if there is anything else I can help you with in the meantime.

Thanks,
Bob Doseck
Plasma Concepts
bob@plasmaconcepts.com
www.plasmaconcedts.com

Well . . i'm speachless! After haveing this unit for a few days i returned it due to dirt/crap behind the screan, not a great start!
Now just under a month and a dead pixel has appeared, after a nec servicman confirmed it i asked that it be taken away,not replaced as that was it for me with this model!
To my dismay i was told 'tough' its only one pixel and unless its 5 we won't do enything! As you can imaging i'm pretty pissed of with this company.

So becarfull i guess is the lesson i'v learn't and read the small print, although i'll be seaking leagal advice now as this is just disgusting service.

Nec service on a whole over the time i'v spent going over these issues: POOR.

So my dear NEC ED fanatics, after my VP4 died (see my posts on previous page), I picked up Panny ED (the 8UK model). Have it now for two days and here are my initial impressions keeping in mind that I use exactly the same hookups as for the NEC and my primary concern is standard definition digital cable and satellite. Scale 0-20 where NEC is 10):
Scalar - Nec 10; Panny 8
Picture clarity and smoothness - Nec 10; Panny 8
Bending or color graduation - Nec 10; Panny 15
Amplification (or lack of) of crappy signal imperfections - Nec 10; Panny 7
Black level - Nec 10; Panny 9 (where is all the panny fus?)
Brightness - Nec 10; Panny 7
Ease of access to various adjustments - Nec 10; Panny 15
Remote - Nec 10; Panny 20

This subjective rating is based on watching different cable channels. I have to admit that for good quality channels Panny is doing much better in overall picture quality. Nec was just simply outstanding no matter how bad signal was. Also HD (via component) is comparable on both sets with slight advantage to NEC due to Panny's lower brightness. Also, both sets were adjusted to half scale for brightness. Other adjustments were done with AVIA but than changed to my liking. I had no chance to test DVD yet. BTW, when it comes to standard crappy cable signal, s-vid works better on panny than component. On NEC there was almost no difference.
Overall Panny is also not bad, I'm just hoping that it will last more than 20 months NEC did.


I'm a little baffled by this post. If the NEC is surpassing the Panny in so many areas, as reflected by your numerical ratings, how then can the Panny be "doing much better in overall picture quality" with good cable channels? I realize you said that the NEC is better with poor to average cable channels, and then slightly better with HD channels but it seems to me that these explanatory comments of yours don't reflect your scoring. In other words, based on your words, I would think the scoring would be closer. Maybe you are simply weighting HD performance much higher than anything else, so even if the NEC only has a slight advantage there, it gets amplified in the numerical ratings??..

Maybe it's just me, as nobody else seems to question this, lol! I don't mean to pick on you or anything, just genuinely trying to understand where you are coming from.

I'm a little baffled by this post. If the NEC is surpassing the Panny in so many areas, as reflected by your numerical ratings, how then can the Panny be "doing much better in overall picture quality" with good cable channels? I realize you said that the NEC is better with poor to average cable channels, and then slightly better with HD channels but it seems to me that these explanatory comments of yours don't reflect your scoring. In other words, based on your words, I would think the scoring would be closer. Maybe you are simply weighting HD performance much higher than anything else, so even if the NEC only has a slight advantage there, it gets amplified in the numerical ratings??..

Maybe it's just me, as nobody else seems to question this, lol! I don't mean to pick on you or anything, just genuinely trying to understand where you are coming from.

Sorry, I should have been clearer. What I meant was that Panny would get better scores if only good quality channels were watched. Better than it received but not higher than NEC.

I've been in market for a while... shooting for an ED set in the next few days... almost chose a Panasonic 8th gen... but NEC seems another good option. My biggest worry is reliability and I saw a lot of issues in this thread alone! Are they less reliable than Panasonic?

I've been in market for a while... shooting for an ED set in the next few days... almost chose a Panasonic 8th gen... but NEC seems another good option. My biggest worry is reliability and I saw a lot of issues in this thread alone! Are they less reliable than Panasonic?

I would not worry about the NEC, from what I hear, they are a better build quality than most pdp's out there. There customer service is excellent as well (at least in my case). Others may have some more input

I've been in market for a while... shooting for an ED set in the next few days... almost chose a Panasonic 8th gen... but NEC seems another good option. My biggest worry is reliability and I saw a lot of issues in this thread alone! Are they less reliable than Panasonic?

I don't think so, based on threads here it does not seem to be the case that NEC has more problems than Panasonic.

As to my own experience, I have had none whatsoever with my model (XM2) which I have had now for almost 2 years. Still love it, still amazes people, inlcuding those with LCDs. Those colors are just hard to bit !

good luck !

I've had my new 42VR5 for a few months now and I couldn't be happier.

The picture when fed an HD program is amazing. The internal scaler and colors go a long was in making up for the fact that it's techically not a "Hi Def" plasma. You wouldn't know it from the reactions of people who see it.

IMHO, the scaler is just as important as the resolution in judging a plasma picture quality. I'd rather have the ED VR5 with NEC's amazing internal components than a cheaper HD model with greater resolution but cheapo scaler.

My plasma arrived in perfect condition and hasn't experienced 1 pixel problem (knock on wood).

Can those of you who own the VR5 list the retailers from which you purchased them? I know that for myself, I dont have the luxury of seeing this TV in real life. I may purchase it based on the opinions and reviews of you guys. So at least knowing a reputable dealer (online or otherwise) will be helpful. Thanks!

i am still trying to find a custom resolution that works for me in my radeon 8500 card.

now - my monitor wont comeback from standby mode...?

Can those of you who own the VR5 list the retailers from which you purchased them? I know that for myself, I dont have the luxury of seeing this TV in real life. I may purchase it based on the opinions and reviews of you guys. So at least knowing a reputable dealer (online or otherwise) will be helpful. Thanks!
That is the same thing I did. I had never seen the VR5 in person until the day it arrived at my door. I bought it based upon the recomendations in this thread and other I read. I also saw a Pioneer PDP-424MV at a local store. It's the same as the VR5 but the VR5 actually has a better scaler, internal components and a 3 year warranty. I knew since I loved the PDP-424MV that I would love the VR5.

I bought mine from forum sponsor Visual Apex and it arrived in perfect condition. Transaction couldn't have gone smoother. I was dealing with TV Authority but I didn't feel I was being delt with in a professional manner so I went over to VA. TVA tried to duck out of honoring some of their "gurantees".

It seems as if NEC has the most unattractive table top stands, next to Panasonic. If I (eventually) go with an NEC model, hopefully there is some interchangability with other stands, whether it be for other NEC models or even other makes.


Sorry, I should have been clearer. What I meant was that Panny would get better scores if only good quality channels were watched. Better than it received but not higher than NEC.

oh, thanks for your clarification.

Thanks fignerscrossed. I'll be researching various online retailers for this. Anyone else can chime in please :)

For those of you like me still contemplating the purchase, heres a nice high-res picture of the TV:

http://www.excom.ch/pix/nec/displays/hires/42vr5.jpg

I ordered mine from TVA and had a good experience. I've also heard good things about PlasmaConcepts and have had a couple of conversations wtih Bob who seems great. My father just ordered a VM5 from PcConnection (confirmed authorized) as you can't beat the price with free shipping right now. I will let you know how that works, as it is due to arrive this week.

Can those of you who own the VR5 list the retailers from which you purchased them? I know that for myself, I dont have the luxury of seeing this TV in real life. I may purchase it based on the opinions and reviews of you guys. So at least knowing a reputable dealer (online or otherwise) will be helpful. Thanks!

I did what most everyone has done who has considered purchasing this monitor. I read everything I could find on it and asked a lot of questions (a big thanx to Tony17 who provided very compelling reasons to consider this one over the other models). I was all set to buy from one of the site's sponsors when I decided to call a local installer to get a quote on installing / wiring a pair of in-ceiling speakers I got recently. When he came out to look at the job, I found out NEC is one of the three brands he uses (Panny and Pio are the other two) and he had a very high opinion of NEC HD and ED tvs compared to the competition. He also took me to the home of another client where he'd installed a NEC HDTV and this client who has 3 different plasmas preferred the NEC over the others (as did I). The bottom line is that I asked him to also give me a quote for the TV. Because the price he quoted was not very much more than what I could get the 42VR5 for online with shipping, along with the fact that he is local, I ordered the TV from him which he should be installing soon. Because there has been high demand for the VR5, it has been on back order for a couple of weeks but is expected in this week. This is not an issue for me since I had the same experience with it being on back order when I was ready to order online from Plasma Concepts.

By the way, I spoke to folks at just about all the site sponsors who carry NEC and came away preferring Plasma Concepts because of their consistent helpfulness and promptness, no matter how many different reps I spoke to. However, I sometimes felt I was receiving certain amount of lip service as well as customer service with a couple of the reps I was in contact with at the other sponsors, though most were very helpful.

hi

what resolutions do you guys have runnning for your HTPC (and this plasma)>

ati card preffered.

I have good and bad news to report on NEC. I have had my 42MP3 for about 4 yrs. Up until now I have been VERY happy with the performance of the unit. It met and often exceeded my expectations. However, earlier this week I heard a POP and the screen went blank. It now goes on for awhile (albeit in degraded mode) and then goes off. The NEC service center thinks it is a main board...and at $1300 it isn't worth replacing it (they don't have them in stock anyway). After spending around $4500 for the unit..I don't expect it to just rollover in a mere 4 yrs. I have owned plenty of other AV equipment (Sony, Mitsu and even Zenith) and they ALL lasted 15Yrs plus without a thing going wrong. I have communicated with NEC so I am hopeful they will do the right thing and make it right. We will see. More as I have it.

Sorry to hear about your problems. Hopefully my new (6 months?) VR5 will last longer. SO far it's been great.

Plasma panels today are light years better than those made 4 years ago. The technology is still new but getting exponetially better.

They really should provided you with a new board, at the very least at cost. I know cost shouldn't be that much.

I am pulling the trigger on the 42VM5 with the TVA.

I have come to conclusion that NEC is the best looking black bezelled ,commercial plasma and the EDTV is the best for viewing DVD's and the current SD broadcasts.

HD also looks great on this TV and it is a great value for $$$

Anyone with feedback on their VM5, please respond.

I am pulling the trigger on the 42VM5 with the TVA.

What about the Panasonic TH-42PS9UK that will be available next month? If you think that the NEC is better than the 8UK, do you also think that the NEC will be better than the 9UK? I'm seriously thinking about buying the 42VM5 also but am thinking that I should wait until the 42PS9UK feedback rolls in. I suspect that there won't be enough difference between the 8UK and 9UK to sway the NEC crowd.

What about the Panasonic TH-42PS9UK that will be available next month? If you think that the NEC is better than the 8UK, do you also think that the NEC will be better than the 9UK? I'm seriously thinking about buying the 42VM5 also but am thinking that I should wait until the 42PS9UK feedback rolls in. I suspect that there won't be enough difference between the 8UK and 9UK to sway the NEC crowd.

I have ordered the the VM5 and Ihave got a great deal with TVA .

Panny will be more expensive then VM5 which has a better technology and inputs.

The inputs are side facing on the right hence better accessible.

And I got free shipping :)

I have ordered the the VM5 and Ihave got a great deal with TVA .

Panny will be more expensive then VM5 which has a better technology and inputs.

The inputs are side facing on the right hence better accessible.

And I got free shipping :)

My quotes have put the VM5 higher in price than the 42PS9UK on pre-order or the 42PWD8UK.

Very curious if you could be more specific about the "better technology". I have been trying to figure out for myself if the VM5 will be superior to the 42PS9UK. I'd appreciate any details you could share.

My quotes have put the VM5 higher in price than the 42PS9UK on pre-order or the 42PWD8UK.

Very curious if you could be more specific about the "better technology". I have been trying to figure out for myself if the VM5 will be superior to the 42PS9UK. I'd appreciate any details you could share.

If you check out these specs and compare it to Panny, you might change your mind ;)

http://www.necvisualsystems.com/Products/Product/?product=780c98de-8e89-4db7-be51-b8e816ce850f

P:S

If you have already pre-ordred a Panny ,why are you having buyers remorse ?

If you check out these specs and compare it to Panny, you might change your mind ;)

Seeing in person and reviews are more valuable than specs. My local pub has a bunch of NEC EDTV's -- they look fine.

P:S

If you have already pre-ordred a Panny ,why are you having buyers remorse ?

You've misread him. He doesn't have one on pre-order. He's only referring to the pre-order price/s that he has seen being quoted.


I wonder about side inputs. Obviously they are great for accessibility, but are the resulting cable connections difficult to hide, thus negating some of a commercial monitors clean look advantage?

Okay, check this brochure :

http://www.necvisualsystems.com/cms/documents/ColorBrochures/NEC070432.pdf

the input panel is recessed by3-4 inches so that the cables can be tied and turned downwards.

Seeing in person and reviews are more valuable than specs. My local pub has a bunch of NEC EDTV's -- they look fine.

My local mall and the gym also has a bunch of Panny EDTV's playing adverts in a continous loop.They look ok ;)

You have to pay extra to buy boards for DVI and PC input for the Panny., which the VM5 has as standard. :cool:

By the way, I don't see any pre-orders for Panny 9UK on the VA website :confused:

My local mall and the gym also has a bunch of Panny EDTV's playing adverts in a continous loop.They look ok ;)

You should see it in HD!

You have to pay extra to buy boards for DVI and PC input for the Panny., which the VM5 has as standard. :cool:

Not me -- I only needed DVD and HD-Cable over component (both standard). No need to pay for something I don't need.

My local mall and the gym also has a bunch of Panny EDTV's playing adverts in a continous loop.They look ok ;)

You have to pay extra to buy boards for DVI and PC input for the Panny., which the VM5 has as standard. :cool:

By the way, I don't see any pre-orders for Panny 9UK on the VA website :confused:

I do have a 42PS9UK on pre-order from VA (they push it if you call them but they aren't listing it on the web yet). However, all this means to me is that I have first right of refusal when they come in. If, by then, I've decided on the 9UK, then I'm first in line. Otherwise I just say no thanks. At this point I am leaning more toward the NEC.

I just learnt from reading a post that the DVI is a digital connection and gives best pictures,while the component is an analog connection.So connecting the cable or satellite with DVI gives digitaly pure pictures.

So more points to the NEC Edtv or the Panny Edtv :p

Digital connections will give the best results in theory. In practice, however, it depends on the display.

I don't anything about HDCP. Are they HDCP compliant?

Okay, check this brochure :

http://www.necvisualsystems.com/cms/documents/ColorBrochures/NEC070432.pdf

the input panel is recessed by3-4 inches so that the cables can be tied and turned downwards.

Thanks. While this helps, if I do end up purchasing a panel with side imputs, even if they are recessed a bit, I think I'll be seeking out only black-ended cable connections, in hopes that they'll blend into the (typically) black-colored background as much as possible. I wouldn't want to have multi-colored cable connectors sticking out like sore thumbs, a virtual cable "fireworks" display visible for any passersby to see. :D

Then again, maybe they'll be lost in the shadow created by the display.. all depends where the light sources are coming from.

Call me anal, if you must, but I'm all about sleek minimalism (don't even get me started about all the awful pictures in the user Photo Gallery section, where tangled spaghetti cable cords are flying all over the place *shivers*).

I don't anything about HDCP. Are they HDCP compliant?

Yes, they are HDCP compliant


Thanks. While this helps, if I do end up purchasing a panel with side imputs, even if they are recessed a bit, I think I'll be seeking out only black-ended cable connections, in hopes that they'll blend into the (typically) black-colored background as much as possible. I wouldn't want to have multi-colored cable connectors sticking out like sore thumbs, a virtual cable "fireworks" display visible for any passersby to see. :D

Then again, maybe they'll be lost in the shadow created by the display.. all depends where the light sources are coming from.

Call me anal, if you must, but I'm all about sleek minimalism (don't even get me started about all the awful pictures in the user Photo Gallery section, where tangled spaghetti cable cords are flying all over the place *shivers*).

Cruel,

They make a side cover for the display that is black to match the back of the plasma. I think it is like $60 and you can get it from either one of the forum sponsors or NEC directly. Once attached it blends in nicely with the plasma and no connections can be seen whatsoever.

oh, that's good to know!

thank you again.

Does not seem to be much activity on this forum which is surprising when you consider the "value" possibilities of the NEC ED sets.

The NEC ED version seems to be a generation behind the HD versions. Has anyone compared to determine if the differences are a real improvement? How much?

The ED version, as I understand it, does not permit "Stadium" use with DVI or HDMI. How important is this ? What do you use instead? How much of a degrade?

Some seem to feel this is the same set as Pioneer ED version. Any comments?
Any idea if scaler is the same?

I had ordered an NEC edtv VM5 but cancelled it as it was not in stock.Went for Panny pwd8uk, instead as its cheaper by couple of hundred bucks.

Does not seem to be much activity on this forum which is surprising when you consider the "value" possibilities of the NEC ED sets.

The NEC ED version seems to be a generation behind the HD versions. Has anyone compared to determine if the differences are a real improvement? How much?

The ED version, as I understand it, does not permit "Stadium" use with DVI or HDMI. How important is this ? What do you use instead? How much of a degrade?

Some seem to feel this is the same set as Pioneer ED version. Any comments?
Any idea if scaler is the same?

I've had my VR5 for a little more than a year I believe. Enjoy it very much even though there are some flashing pixels that happen only once in awhile.

I think there isn't much interest in this set simply because the NEC isn't marketed as much as the Panny or Sony, etc.

Well it seems that I can NOT use Stadium mode with HD sources (even through Component as that is how my cable box is hooked up to my TV) . I don't find this a problem as HD sources seem to be formatted for Widescreen anyhow but your own mileage may vary.

I doubt the scaler is the same as the Panny simply because the general gist of things is that the NEC does scaling a bit better. :)

lol, and after all that Panny mockery. ;) Be sure to give us a review here in this thread, tvbug. I'm wondering if you've found that, as it's sometimes said, once you take the leap and make the purchase, most of those nagging little doubts about features, or lack thereof, and picture quality comparisons with other panels tends to fall away and you're left with a panel that you're generally very pleased with.

Hi guys...

I hope people are still monitoring this thread. I'm still deciding between the 8UK and the VM5A (can't seem to pull the trigger!)

Anyone have any feedback on flat wall-mounts for the VM5A? I'm thinking the Peerless SF660 or the Sanus VMPL2b. Anybody use either? Or, if not, what did you use?

Thanks.

lol, and after all that Panny mockery. ;) Be sure to give us a review here in this thread, tvbug. I'm wondering if you've found that, as it's sometimes said, once you take the leap and make the purchase, most of those nagging little doubts about features, or lack thereof, and picture quality comparisons with other panels tends to fall away and you're left with a panel that you're generally very pleased with.


Hahaha

I was a fanboy of NEC now I am a fanboy of the Panny.If TVA had not messed up my NEC order for 3 weeks, I would still be fanboy of NEC. ;)

My Panny was delivered by New Egg in seven working days !


Shek,

GO Panny :D

It's been a while since I read or posted in this thread. I guess thats good because I have been enjoying my 42VR5 ever since I bought it from Visual Apex. Everyone that sees it is blown away by it. The incredible scaler and processor make up for ther fact that it's ED and not HD. Picture quality is not exclusively about resolution.

About stadium mode. I played around with my HD DVR cable box settings and discovered that 1080i looks best. Whenever it's set to 720 or 1080 I can only use 2 aspect ratios. When I set it to 480 or watch a DVD I can use all of the various aspect ratios the NEC provides.

Just the other day I remarked to my wife that I still love the picture from our VR5.

It's not the most detailed but due to lack of HD programming, the compromise still seems like a good one.

Overall I'm still quite pleased with ours though occasionally I do get flashing pixels.

I bought the ED version of the NEC in January 2005. With the exception of one red blown pixel, I am happy.

I am not a videophile. My setup is as follows:

Generic DVD player - works fine.
Scientific American 3250HD STB (TIME WARNER CABLE)
I have component connections.
Yamaha 5740 AV receiver.

I have used the factory default settings from Day 1.

I had gone for several weeks without watching a DVD until last few weeks. When I watch, I often play with the Wide button to choose between Zoom and Stadium mode.

On watching my HD channels this week, I have noticed that the picture will not longer fit on my screen. Text from top, left, bottom, right is cut off. I have tried toggeling the wide button between 2.35 to 1 and Full. 2.35 to 1 is worse. Full is still to big. This "just worked" before. The broadcast HD picture fit nicely in the frame. Now it is like I am watching SDT in full screen mode with top/left/bottom/right cut off.

I have tried pressing the zoom +/- button. If I go all the to the negative side, the picture is still too big.

I have tried using the Image Adjust menu options. I already have V height at 0, H width at 0. Want to go less than zero.

I went thru manual and reset my TV to factory default settings - still to big.

Not having this problem on DVD viewing. Just broadcast HD.

Does this have to do with Cable provider? At a lost for what to do next.
Any suggestions from you veterans would be appreciated

Anybody still watching this thread? My VM5 is still giving us hours of viewing enjoyment. How about all of you? Have you moved on to the latest NEC model?

Yup.. My 42R is still humming with exquisite performance in picture quality and reliability after 2 years and an estimated 5,000 hours (my wife) :D

I've had my 42VR for a year now and I am still very pleased with its performance and my decision to purchase this model. Several friends who have tube and Lcos HDTVs have been extremely impressed with the picture after I tell them that its a only a 'lowly' EDTV.

Yes I don't even bother telling people anymore that it's ED, they wouldn't know it otherwise anyway and it just confuses most. Most people are so programmed by advertising that they just assume it must suck if it wasn't "HD", whatever that means (looking at you, 1024x768 plasmas! :D :D ) Love my almost 2 year old NEC 42VR5 like the day I bought it!

And just a word of hope for those with strange pixels, mine had a stuck green pixel when I bought it, and it went away after about 8-12 months. Been pixel defect free since. Yours could get better too!

We have had our 42VR5 running heavily for 1 year 10 months and have not even had a hiccup with this unit. I must have spent a good year researching displays before selecting this one and would recommend NEC without hesitation.

I have just started looking at replacing it with a 50" HD in the TV room, as my wife suggested we put a display over the fireplace in the family room and the 42" will fit perfectly. When checking out what is on display in the local stores, thinking that I may put a 37" - 40" LCD above the fireplace instead, I can't say I'm all that impressed as LCD's still have poor contrast ratios. High resolution does not equal a great picture and even when compared with our ED plasma I still prefer plasma over the newer LCD's. Needless to say that an NEC plasma is leading in consideration for the new unit.

I've had my 42VR for 2 years next month after exhaustive research for 1 1/2 yyears. Best most reliable high ticket electronics purchase I ever made.

Have recently looked at LCD's at CC with the same reaction as tmac145-I'd rather have my NEC ED. Looking very hard now at the NEC 50s, will decide soon, I hope

Like all obsessive hobbyists, I want to squeeze every ounce of performance out of my NEC 42VM5. So I made a low-cost investment and swapped in a DVI-HDMI cable for the component cables: running from Motorola 6412 cable-box into the display.

I saw no noticeable difference in the "quality" (such a vague term) of the picture. Have any of you tried this? What were your results? Should I do any tweaking?

Thanks.

Like all obsessive hobbyists, I want to squeeze every ounce of performance out of my NEC 42VM5. So I made a low-cost investment and swapped in a DVI-HDMI cable for the component cables: running from Motorola 6412 cable-box into the display.

I saw no noticeable difference in the "quality" (such a vague term) of the picture. Have any of you tried this? What were your results? Should I do any tweaking?

Thanks.

Haven't bothered to hook anything up via DVI but from what I gather, it shouldn't make much of a difference.

As long as the Component Cable is of sufficient enough quality (shielding etc.) then differences in Picture Quality probably won't be noticeable.

Still loving my VR5 as well. Tempted to move up to a larger set but fear the scaling of SD broadcasts, which are still the vast majority of TV broadcasts we watch.

I don’t know if I should start a new thread or not, I’m sure someone will let me know if I should.
I’m having an intermittent problem with my VR5A. The volume display pops up on the screen and stays there for a few seconds and then disappears. There doesn’t appear to be a pattern as to when or why it happens, and is happening more frequently. It is now out of warranty so looking to see if anyone else has seen this, or has any suggestions as to a cause or a cure.

i wish all of you guys are still enjoying your NECs as i have been for the last 2.5yrs.

now the only thing that i haven't noticed before and with the advent of bluray films, when i set let's say either my xbox360 or PS3's display output to 1080i, my NEC 42VM5 doesnt seem to be scaling it to fit the screen (looks zoomed in), whereas it does on all the other settings including 576i/p, 720p and 1080p, is this an inherent thing with the NEC or am i just missing a setting?

the reason i'm having this is because i connect my PS3 using a component cable and PS3s don't output bluray film in 1080p using component, so it "downscales" it to 1080i which like i've said doesnt display right on my NEC, and if im right, most bluray films only comes in 480p/576p AND 1080p (no 720p).

can somebody help pls, basically i need to know whether the NEC 42VM5 can scale 1080i input to fit the screen

thanks

Mine works fine at 1080i over component from Xbox 360. Make sure you're not in full aspect mode and not in 2.35:1.

Mine works fine at 1080i over component from Xbox 360. Make sure you're not in full aspect mode and not in 2.35:1.

thanks for the quick reply :)
this is actually good news as it means i'm only missing a setting and is not an inherent problem on the panel.
definitely not in full aspect mode and not in 2.35:1 either.

:)

Sorry, my first post should read: "you SHOULD be in Full mode and NOT in 2.35:1 mode."
These are the only aspect modes that work with HD content, so you've got to be in one of those.