Do we have any speculations on the lag these TVs might have? Is it completely unknown, is there a good chance we’ll have lag, or are we guessing Samsung has taken care of lag and it won’t be a problem.

I know what we’re all hoping for, but I’m trying to gauge if this will be an issue with these TVs or not. I, simply put, don’t have the slightest guess if lag will or won’t be a problem. I have not owned a DLP before, and really have no idea what it’s like to experience serious lag. I also don’t know enough about these new TVs to make a prediction either.

EDIT: I realize this issue is brought up in "Items We Would Like To Test, But Need To Wait Until HDTV's Are Released" of Post #1, but am hoping someone here might be able to make a more educated guess than I am about this issue.

EDIT: I realize this issue is brought up in "Items We Would Like To Test, But Need To Wait Until HDTV's Are Released" of Post #1, but am hoping someone here might be able to make a more educated guess than I am about this issue.
Some will experience lag and some will not. My guess is not educated. :o

Just a quick intro and a very large thank you for all the info. I decided that the time had come to get an HDTV as I am celebrating my 70th birthday in October. Having researched all the technologies, I have decided on DLP and narrowed that to the new Samsung 1080p models. I have an installer who will be ordering all my components and putting the whole thing together for me. This forum has been the best source of questions to ask and questions answered.
One question I have is about viewing angle. I am 5'3'', my son-in-law 6'4" and various grandchildren come in shorter sizes. I am getting the 5078. How high should it be? I will be the primary viewer as the rest of the family just visits.
BTW are there any other women on this forum?
Thanks! :)

Just a quick intro and a very large thank you for all the info. I decided that the time had come to get an HDTV as I am celebrating my 70th birthday in October. Having researched all the technologies, I have decided on DLP and narrowed that to the new Samsung 1080p models. I have an installer who will be ordering all my components and putting the whole thing together for me. This forum has been the best source of questions to ask and questions answered.
One question I have is about viewing angle. I am 5'3'', my son-in-law 6'4" and various grandchildren come in shorter sizes. I am getting the 5078. How high should it be? I will be the primary viewer as the rest of the family just visits.
BTW are there any other women on this forum?
Thanks! :)

The optimal position for the TV is one that has the middle of the screen at the same height as the viewer's eyes in her normal viewing position (seated, lying in bed, etc.). The middle of the 5078's screen is 20.52 inches above the bottom of the TV. If the viewer's eyes are, for example, 39 inches above the floor (as mine are when seated), the TV should be placed on a 18.48-inch-tall stand.

The optimal position for the TV is one that has the middle of the screen at the same height as the viewer's eyes in her normal viewing position (seated, lying in bed, etc.).
Your family should be fine if you use the "Manatus Method".

There are some women who are active here at AVS. Being a level headed bunch they are not as prominent as the other bunch. :)

I hope your installer is suggesting a good quality up scaling DVD player using 720p and HDMI for your new home theater.

Just a quick intro and a very large thank you for all the info. I decided that the time had come to get an HDTV as I am celebrating my 70th birthday in October. Having researched all the technologies, I have decided on DLP and narrowed that to the new Samsung 1080p models. I have an installer who will be ordering all my components and putting the whole thing together for me. This forum has been the best source of questions to ask and questions answered.
One question I have is about viewing angle. I am 5'3'', my son-in-law 6'4" and various grandchildren come in shorter sizes. I am getting the 5078. How high should it be? I will be the primary viewer as the rest of the family just visits.
BTW are there any other women on this forum?
Thanks! :)

Welcome to AVS. The Samsung companion stand for the 5078 is 19" tall. For all of the other dimensions of the stand click on the 'Spec Sheet' link in 78 series area of POST #1. You can also click on the 'Technical Drawing' link for the 5078 in POST #1 to get a technical drawing of the 5078 that can give to your installer for planning. Manatus' calculation will give you an exact optimal height.

The optimal position for the TV is one that has the middle of the screen at the same height as the viewer's eyes in her normal viewing position (seated, lying in bed, etc.). The middle of the 5078's screen is 20.52 inches above the bottom of the TV. If the viewer's eyes are, for example, 39 inches above the floor (as mine are when seated), the TV should be placed on a 18.48-inch-tall stand.

For a very good viewing experience your family (secondary viewers) should have a viewing angle of less than 15 degrees (measured from the center of the screen). If your set is 8 ft away (for example) then in a normal seating position your family should be within 2 feet taller or shorter than you (about half of a height difference will be disipated by sitting down)

If your set is closer the effect of the height difference will be more aparent while if it is further (than 8 ft) the difference will be smaller.

To make a long story short (too late) if you are a reasonably normal height (you are) and you are sitting at least the minimum distance for your 50" screen and have it set up to be reasonably close to your eye level then your familly will also be able to get a good viewing provided they aren't laying on the floor or standing up.

I hope your installer is suggesting a good quality up scaling DVD player using 720p and HDMI for your new home theater.[/QUOTE]

Yes, he has suggested such a DVD player and I have carefully researched all the other components. I am not particularly video savvy but do know how to do good research on the net. Forums such as this have supplied me with the questions to research. I am spending about $10,000 plus on the system and already have great surround sound speakers which I do not need to replace. The other components will be top of the line. If I am going to buy I am too frugal not to buy the best! I have always been one the early adopter types, had a CD player when there were very few CDs and a DVD player when I could only find about 20 DVDs available. I have waited longer with HDTV and it was the 1080p sets that made me decide that now was the time.
Thanks for all the helpful responses.
BTW I have read the posts on this forum from the very first one. Fun reading for the most part. I wish I had something to offer this group but this is not my area of expertise. ;)

I hope your installer is suggesting a good quality up scaling DVD player using 720p and HDMI for your new home theater.

Why would you worry about a good upscaling DVD Player when the TV is going to do it for you anyway? Just curious.

Depends on which does a better job of upscaling, DVD player or TV. You might want to look HERE (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=18).

Why would you worry about a good upscaling DVD Player when the TV is going to do it for you anyway? Just curious.
It seems to make a difference in PQ for a lot of people.

I use a HTPC with TheaterTek with DVI connections and 720p for DVDs and SethS was amazed at the quality of the de-interlacing/scaling that it does. If you have an upscaling DVD player with either a DVI or HDMI port it's easy enough to test different outputs.

SethS calibrated our HLP5063 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=548133)

It depends a lot on the DVD player selected but, Samsung recommends sending their sets 720p digital when possible.

Our Sony non-progressive DVD player using component input at 480i allows the TV to do all the conversion. The PQ is clearly not as good.

From our point of viw the only down side to using a good HTPC is the added operational complexity. At some point I hope to simplify that. :rolleyes:

RJGin, as we post, I am currently slowly (through trial & error) piecing my HTS (Home Theatre Sytem) together.

I have the following so far, with more to add & come.

(1) Receiver: Onkyo TXNR1000 Silver
(2) Front Left/Right Floor standing speakers: A pair of Definitive Tech Mythos 5 series Silver
(3) Subwoofer: Infinity PS-100 250 watts
(4) HDTV (on preorder): Samsung 5688 1080p

I'm still working on a Center & 2 Rear L/R Surround Sound Speakers & a HDMI DVD player.

Be nice to have my 5688 already to start building my HTS (Home Theatre System) & enjoy Gaming (XBOX & soon XBOX360), Video (DVD & soon HD-DVD/Blu-Ray), & Audio (SACD/DVD-AUDIO) bliss!

Is there full drawings or specifications for the Samsung stand? Most dimensions indicate
overall dimensions but since the stand is more of Trapezoid and I like to know back dimensions.

thanks

Mash1224,

I've assembled this stand in its 67" TV configuration. In the rear, at the base, the stand measures 38.5" wide. I'd expect this dimension to be slightly smaller when the stand is assembled to hold the 61" TV instead but I really can't say for sure. This picture (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=38866) should give you a better feel for what the back of this stand looks like. You can read more about the stand starting at this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=5774088&&#post5774088) in the PowerBuy thread.

- Anthony

I've been watching and reading this thread for several months and am ready to buy either a HL-R6168 or HL-R6768. I'm in no particular hurry but see no reason to wait long either. I'm still a little confused about how best to do this.

The TVAuthority PowerBuy looks like a much better price than I can hope to get from the local BB or Sears. I remain a little unsure about what kind of risk I'm taking with an online vendor. Is this really a good idea? My time is valuable and I want this right.

The consensus seems to be that paying several hundred dollars to have this new TV professionally calibrated is not only a good idea but actually the only way to get the full value from a TV that will cost thousands of dollars. Is this correct?

I've seen several people refer to purchasing from an "installer." I'm not sure what that means, why I should consider it, or where I would find such a person if I wanted one. Do I want an installer? How is this different form professional calibration, or is it? Does an installer save me money or anything else?

As a final question, I either need to build a shelf over my new TV or get a stand that can hold a center speaker. I prefer the idea of putting it on the top shelf of a stand. The speaker is 8" tall on its side. I also need another shelf for a receiver, DVD player, and TiVo. To make it more complicated, I need a stand that is narrower than the TV so I can have room to put the subwoofer under part of the TV that hangs over. I need the room. My subwoofer is just under 18" tall so the stand needs to be 18" to 20" tall. Any suggestions on a stand make or model? Do these TVs sit on just the middle section? Is there any reason why I shouldn't use a stand that is narrower than the TV?

Thanks

I can answer the bit about an "Installer". Basically all this means is you're getting the TV through a small local company or a audio visual contractor - instead of a big store like Sears or Best Buy.

Example, there's a local company where I live called Ensemble Home Theaters. Their senior technician is ISF (the 'profesional calibraiton' you mention) certified. He will deliver my TV, do a small calibration, then come back a few months later and do a full calibration for me free of charge. This differens from installers to installer

- D

Depends on which does a better job of upscaling, DVD player or TV. You might want to look HERE (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=18).

well, if the 480i lag in the sammy dlp hasn't been corrected on the new models (shame on sammy if it hasn't) then it seems an upconverting dvd player is the way to go, using 1080i output. The issue was that when sending a 480i signal to the current 720p dlp models there was audio/lip sync delay while the tv was upconverting the image to it's native res. hopefully this was corrected on the new gen

cookie: it all depends on how much money you have, how much time you have, and how technically inclided you are. You can buy CDs that take you through the procedure, step by step. They have test tones for your audio and test pictures for your video. I used them before and it took a little time to understand everything. But, after I did it once, the next time was easier. And, once you learn how to do it, you can test or calibrate your set whenever you want to.

Some people consider this fun, some consider it a big pain, and some consider it a big cost savings. Personally, I wanted to learn how to do it because I didn't want some "installer" doing it.

But, if you go through an "installer" expect to pay a "premium" price. No free lunch out there!!!

All depends, my guy is giving me TWO free ISF calibrations, and he doesn't believe in extended warrenties either. He's also offering me a very nice price on the TV too :)

Do your research, don't be afraid to ask questions. There's nothing wrong with having someone who knows the tech, helping you out. There will always be real geeks out there that want to do it all themselves, and scoff at anyone who asks others for help. Some just don't have the time, and some don't want to learn.

To each their own. I've calibrated my speakers using Denon's Auto Setup and it's worked wonderfully. I'm sure I could do it manually, but being visually impaired means I can't read the SPL meter anyways, so this route was perfect for me!

Good luck!

- D

anyone have any idea why the center of the hlr5076w is proportionate, but the sides right and left of the picture are magnified, as if the screen was concave. example is shoulders or heads of people on the screen, if in the center they are looking great, but as they move to the left or right, their heads and or shoulders (or anything on the picture for that matteR) becomes stretched out and magnified. it is annoying. possible bad set?

anyone have any idea why the center of the hlr5076w is proportionate, but the sides right and left of the picture are magnified, as if the screen was concave. example is shoulders or heads of people on the screen, if in the center they are looking great, but as they move to the left or right, their heads and or shoulders (or anything on the picture for that matteR) becomes stretched out and magnified. it is annoying. possible bad set?

It sounds like the TV is in Panoramic mode. This a mode offered on Samsung sets that is used with 4:3 material to display it as widescreen material. It essentially leaves the center of the picture normal and stretches the edges to fill the screen. If you don't like it switch to Normal mode which will display the 4:3 material with black bars on each side. :)

I'd imagine you have the panorama stretch mode turned on. I prefer no zooming of any channel myself, especially when there's no chance of burn-in.

ill definitely check this out.
thanks for the info

deleted, everyone else answered before I did about stretch...i'm way too slow on the trigger :)

The consensus seems to be that paying several hundred dollars to have this new TV professionally calibrated is not only a good idea but actually the only way to get the full value from a TV that will cost thousands of dollars. Is this correct?

You should be able to adjust the TV so it looks really nice with setup discs available for $20 to $50. But, the pro's have expensive equipment and knowledge that allows them to really dial in the picture. In addition, the pro's will go into the service menu to make adjustments, something that 99.9% of the rest of us will not touch.

I've seen several people refer to purchasing from an "installer." I'm not sure what that means, why I should consider it, or where I would find such a person if I wanted one. Do I want an installer? How is this different form professional calibration, or is it? Does an installer save me money or anything else?
As D has said these are people or small companies that make their living designing and installing home theater systems. They bring a lot of expertise to your project and can do all setup and calibration. You can probably get a referral for you area somewhere here on AVS, if not the phone book will have some companies listed that you can interview and talk to about your project. On a large project installers can often save you time and money by making sure that you don't buy the wrong components or install them incorrectly. They can do things like run cable, install speakers into walls, even create entire rooms. Over the years, I've spent probably 15 or more hours under my home running cable. It was not fun --- this is an example of something that an installer could do for you.

As a final question, I either need to build a shelf over my new TV or get a stand that can hold a center speaker. I prefer the idea of putting it on the top shelf of a stand. The speaker is 8" tall on its side. I also need another shelf for a receiver, DVD player, and TiVo. To make it more complicated, I need a stand that is narrower than the TV so I can have room to put the subwoofer under part of the TV that hangs over. I need the room. My subwoofer is just under 18" tall so the stand needs to be 18" to 20" tall. Any suggestions on a stand make or model? Do these TVs sit on just the middle section? Is there any reason why I shouldn't use a stand that is narrower than the TV?
Most quality receivers are pretty deep so you will probably need a stand that is normal depth. The TV should fit on a normal depth stand. Here is a place with some good stand ideas: http://www.racksandstands.com/

Talk about being slow to reply. :o

anyone have any idea why the center of the hlr5076w is proportionate, but the sides right and left of the picture are magnified, as if the screen was concave. example is shoulders or heads of people on the screen, if in the center they are looking great, but as they move to the left or right, their heads and or shoulders (or anything on the picture for that matteR) becomes stretched out and magnified. it is annoying. possible bad set?
If you are watching 4x3 material and filling your 16x9 screen one of the options is "panoramic" mode. Panoramic mode is designed to do what you describe. People who hate black bars and don't mind distortion use it. Some form of "wide" mode, depending on your input, will give you an undistorted image and supply black bars when the image isn't 16x9.

To get exact instructions for your model you need to indicate what your source is and how it's connected to your TV.

Could it be that your TV is a HLR5067? I'm not familiar with a HLR5076 model.

Most of us still think that video lag will be a problem in the new sets. It will depend on the signal sent to the TV but none the less if the TV has more than just deinterlace to do it will probably lag the receiver.

One area that people would like to do is to use HDMI to send all the digital signal to the TV and then opt to have the TV send the sound only out the optical path. It appears that the older units only send 2 channel back out and not 5.1?

Have we confirmed yet that the 68/78's won't support multichannel out from a HDMI in? To me this is as big or bigger issue than the 1080p issue, which is also important.

I am not so worried for DVD playback as I am getting a DVD HD 950 for that and I am expecting no lag here. But other sources that do not send 1080i to the TV may cause the lag and HDMI would be a nice option if MC audio could come out of the TV. In this manner the TV would keep all the signals together.

I am sort of confused anyway on this issue. If I am watching a movie where the picture processing causes a delay in playback thats random, would not the whole experience seem choppy? I suppose that it would not be as noticeable as the lips not being in sync but either the movie is going into a slower pace for a few seconds/minutes or they would have to toss out frames every once in a while to get back into sync. What am I missing here?

Most of us still think that video lag will be a problem in the new sets. It will depend on the signal sent to the TV but none the less if the TV has more than just deinterlace to do it will probably lag the receiver.

One area that people would like to do is to use HDMI to send all the digital signal to the TV and then opt to have the TV send the sound only out the optical path. It appears that the older units only send 2 channel back out and not 5.1?

Have we confirmed yet that the 68/78's won't support multichannel out from a HDMI in? To me this is as big or bigger issue than the 1080p issue, which is also important.

I am not so worried for DVD playback as I am getting a DVD HD 950 for that and I am expecting no lag here. But other sources that do not send 1080i to the TV may cause the lag and HDMI would be a nice option if MC audio could come out of the TV. In this manner the TV would keep all the signals together.

I am sort of confused anyway on this issue. If I am watching a movie where the picture processing causes a delay in playback thats random, would not the whole experience seem choppy? I suppose that it would not be as noticeable as the lips not being in sync but either the movie is going into a slower pace for a few seconds/minutes or they would have to toss out frames every once in a while to get back into sync. What am I missing here?

I've added your question as question #6 to the things we don't know yet area in POST #1:

=================

What we DON’T KNOW so far:

1. What computer resolutions are supported on the 68, 78, and 88 series sets on the HDMI input(1920x1080?)? Specifically, does it support 1080i or 1080p?

2. Will the internal ATSC tuner or CableCard tuner support the future 1080p broadcast format on the 1080p units?

3. What capabilities does the 1394 port have to support 1080p? Specifically, if the internal tuner can support broadcast 1080p/24, can this be output via the 1394 port? Could a 1080p signal be input via the 1394 port?

4. Will Samsung provide any method (USB port/PC, Memory Cards) for customers to apply firmware upgrades to the new 1080p HDTVs? There are two other manufacturers that currently provide this capability for their DLP sets.

5. On the 1080p sets, which inputs have DNIe turned on all of the time. On the HDMI inputs and other inputs (VGA/PC, 1394), is DNIe ON or OFF? Does selecting a specific device type with inputs that have DNIe on all of the time reduce the level of processing (selecting GAME on component, for example)?

6. Will 1080p sets support multichannel audio (5.1) on the HDMI inputs? 720p sets only support 2 channels and this prevents a multichannel pass through to a receiver. This is important to manage sync in some situations.

I've added question #8 to the things we want to test section in POST #1:

====================

Items We Would Like To Test, But Need To Wait Until HDTV's Are Released:

1. Do the remote control IR discrete codes work for ALL inputs?

2. Given the increased video processing demands of 1080p, what is the capability of the 68/78/88 series 1080p sets to handle computer/video gaming? Specifically, what is lag?

3. Given the increased video processing required in the 1080p units (68, 78, 88 Series), what steps has Samsung taken to insure that we don't see lip sync issues? Did anyone ask specifically about this concern?

4. Will 1080p be supported on the HDMI input on the 1080p models (68, 78, 88 series)? All of our information collected up to this point indicates that it won't, but it is an important item and many of us hope Samsung will find a way to include it in the final production sets. It should be checked when the sets are released.

5. How will SD broadcasts look on the 1080p sets? How will this compare to SD broadcasts on 720p sets?

6. How will standard DVD's look on the 1080p sets? How will standard DVD's look after being upshifted by the better upshifting DVD players in comparison to standard DVD on the 720p sets? Is there any advantage to the new 1080p sets when playing standard DVD's?

7. In selecting a DVD player, will you get a better quality picture if you send the 1080p HDTV a 480i digital feed and let the TV do all of the processing OR by using a upshifting DVD player to send a 1080i digital signal that is deinterlaced to 1080p?

8. When setting up a given input, such as HDMI or Component 1, does the processing associated with the input change when you select a different descriptive name for the input (such as GAME, DVD, HD STB, etc.)?

USER MANUAL FOR 68 SERIES (56,61,67 inch) (http://org.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspx?CDSite=HQ&CttFileID=480190&CDCttType=UM&ModelType=N&ModelName=HL-R6168W&VPath=UM/200507/20050704183212125_BP68-00520A-00Eng_book.pdf)

Samsung just put up the manual.

UCSB, are we still missing manuals? It looks like all of them are on the global download site. If you need any links I can grab them. Let me know.

USER MANUAL FOR 68 SERIES (56,61,67 inch) (http://org.downloadcenter.samsung.com/downloadfile/ContentsFile.aspx?CDSite=HQ&CttFileID=480190&CDCttType=UM&ModelType=N&ModelName=HL-R6168W&VPath=UM/200507/20050704183212125_BP68-00520A-00Eng_book.pdf)

Samsung just put up the manual.

What was the time difference between the previous models manuals appearing online and actual shipping of the tv's?

It's been all over the place. I'm not sure it means a whole lot other than we have to be getting close. Someone may remember better than me.

UCSB, are we still missing manuals? It looks like all of them are on the global download site. If you need any links I can grab them. Let me know.

Thanks for finding the HLRxx68W manual! I have added it to POST #1. I think that is it ... we have them all. I think that is the last puzzle piece ... we have everything now, including: manual, spec sheets, tech drawings. The works! Thanks for you help!!!

I just did a little digging through the manual, and noted that the HDMI and HDMI/DVI (only the one port allows you to use a DVI -> HDMI cable, not both!) do not support PC connections, just an FYI for those curious.

Even the Menu screen looks pretty, I want my new TV now!

;_;

- D

Daphoid, while the manual says HDMI doesn't support PC connections, Steve P (Samsung) at the HES show in NY was trying to connect a media PC to one. As I recall, he had problems and I don't think he actually got it to work, but I still think it is possible. The only issue is going to be refresh rates. My thinking is that Samsung is trying to minimize the technical support they might have to offer if the PC connection is made over HDMI rather than through the VGA port. I don't know what type of issues might come up with connecting over HDMI/DVI but I am sure there are going to be a bunch.

I think it also depends on the video card. To display 1920x1080 decently you do need a relatively recent video card. Although this isn't a problem for us geekier types, a lot of people still have older computers. It's also possible that the refresh may have been set to high. I know with CRT's people are taught to crank the refresh rate, whereas DLP/LCD's should remain at 60 because they're a different technology.

Either way my DVD player and 8300HD are getting a HDMI port each, so PC gets VGA :)

- D

This is a great forum.I've read quite a few hundred posts.This all new to me the DLP's.A budy of mine got a 5685 and i had to have 1.So i ordered it online for $2795,(hope i can say that)only to find out the discontinued them.So they told me for $150 they would upgrade me to the 5688.They talked to thier distributor and said it would be available on the 8th.I would like to know what the 2 HDMI ports are for.And what the VGA is for.Like i said this all new to me so any help will be great relief. Thanx

I also forgot it was said it would have a cable card with it.Does that mean i wont have to get it from the satelite co. i have

Cable card is for use with a cable company, not satellite.

This is a great forum.I've read quite a few hundred posts.This all new to me the DLP's.A budy of mine got a 5685 and i had to have 1.So i ordered it online for $2795,(hope i can say that)only to find out the discontinued them.So they told me for $150 they would upgrade me to the 5688.They talked to thier distributor and said it would be available on the 8th.I would like to know what the 2 HDMI ports are for.And what the VGA is for.Like i said this all new to me so any help will be great relief. Thanx

HDMI is a pure digital connection that passes both audio and video to your television. It supports both standard and high definition picture and sound.You can use the HDMI ports for anything that supports it, DVD players, cable boxes, et al.

VGA is an analog connection used to connect a computer to your TV.

Cable Card is a new system that delivers all the tv guide information to your TV. It's also used for authentication and decoding of the signal (helps against cable theft).

Cheers!

- D

Matt ... be sure and thank that guardian angel sitting on your shoulder for watching over you. When you get your 5688, you will have one of the nicest TV's on the planet.

The HDMI inputs are digital inputs. Digital sources such as some DVD players, cable set-top-box, and other components can send a signal that the TV will display very, very accurately. In term of picture quality there is a hierachy of inputs. HDMI is best. Component video next best. S-video and then composite. So as you build and optimize your system you will be very happy to have the two HDMI. The VGA input is an input designed to directly take an analog signal from a computer. So you can connect up a computer system to your TV. The cablecard is a small card that you get from your cable TV company that plugs into the back of the TV and allows you to receive any and all cable TV channels (digital, HD, etc.). Anyway, good luck.

I just did a little digging through the manual, and noted that the HDMI and HDMI/DVI (only the one port allows you to use a DVI -> HDMI cable, not both!) do not support PC connections, just an FYI for those curious.

I'm guessing the reason the HDMI-1 port isn't labeled as supporting DVI is because there is no separate audio input terminal for that port (unlike audio port #8 for HDMI/DVI-2). I don't see why it wouldn't work to just connect a DVI-HDMI cable to HDMI-1 and send the audio separately to a receiver. But I'm just guessing.

Since we are on the topic of connections, is it possible to use the DVI connection on a PC Video Card and a "DVI to HDMI" cable to go to the TV? If no, is that because the PC DVI is video with no sound? Could you use audio out on the Sound Card or Motherboard to compensate?

Since we are on the topic of connections, is it possible to use the DVI connection on a PC Video Card and a "DVI to HDMI" cable to go to the TV? If no, is that because the PC DVI is video with no sound? Could you use audio out on the Sound Card or Motherboard to compensate?
That's what I'm doing now with a HLP5063, but it's DVI to DVI. I don't know of any reason that DVI to HDMI would make a difference. You just need a sound card with digital out and a graphics card that supports the native resolution of your TV.

Thanks for the reply htwaits. I will be building an HTPC but not until I get my 1080p tv! First things first. My speakers are on the way - got my DVD Player - need the receiver and the TV - then I will be reading the HTPC forum threads for the PC ideas.

Thanks for the reply htwaits. I will be building an HTPC but not until I get my 1080p tv! First things first. My speakers are on the way - got my DVD Player - need the receiver and the TV - then I will be reading the HTPC forum threads for the PC ideas.
I would also watch for owners threads in this forum. You might also check out TheaterTek which is a software DVD player that can do a good job with a wide range of PC component and do wonders with more powerful graphics card/processor combinations.

Good luck.

UCSB , et al.
Bill, watching my temporary 5667 until I get the 5668, I've noticed that Nemo, Incredibles and now Ice Age look unbelievably perfect! Color, brightness and crucially detail. However, Monsters inc. detail drops about 10 percent and Toy Story 2 drops about 30 percent in detail. What can cause this, will the Oppo fix it, will the 1080p 'most likely' fix it, will using hdmi connection fix it??

I have a cheap panasonic dvd, component to stereo receiver back to tv component input.

Also, my wife is too overwhelmed by the 56" size even at 13.5 feet away and the brightness. She is pleading to go down to a 50". This would mean the 720p 5067 or the Panasonic TH-50PHD7UY plasma. I want the 5668 and pwrbuy price is great. Can I assure her that the ~10000 to 1 black level will allow us to turn down the brightness a great deal?

thanks for any help.

I've noticed that Nemo, Incredibles and now Ice Age look unbelievably perfect! Color, brightness and crucially detail. However, Monsters inc. detail drops about 10 percent and Toy Story 2 drops about 30 percent in detail. What can cause this, will the Oppo fix it, will the 1080p 'most likely' fix it, will using hdmi connection fix it??

After you have owned your new TV for a while, you will realize that each movie has a pretty unique look (especially if you are using a very accurate HDMI input). The quality and look of DVD movies varies widely. Some of this is by design, some is caused in the DVD creation process, and some is caused by original film being transfered to DVD. Since all of the movies that you are using are computer animation, I think you should try a few regular movies at this point. I own all of the movies you listed above and can compare a few a little later.

Will an OPPO fix it? Not if what you are seeing is on the DVD. The 1080p won't fix it either if it is on the DVD. But, I'm a big believer in players like the OPPO that send a digital signal to the TV. I have two DVD players in my system right now, one is connected via component and the other via DVI. The DVI player has a better picture. This will be a BIG topic of discussion after people start receiving their 1080p sets and upgrading their DVD players. You may need to wait until we get testing time in to understand the benifits of these up converting players on the 1080p systems.

Also, my wife is too overwhelmed by the 56" size even at 13.5 feet away and the brightness. She is pleading to go down to a 50". This would mean the 720p 5067 or the Panasonic TH-50PHD7UY plasma. I want the 5668 and pwrbuy price is great. Can I assure her that the ~10000 to 1 black level will allow us to turn down the brightness a great deal?

You aren't trying to watch a DLP set in a dark room are you? If so, turn some lights on ... they can be set low, but without them watching a bright, high performance TV will be a miserable experience (and steping down in size will NOT help). Adjust the TV and room lighting so she is comfortable ... you can always come back and readjust again in a week or so once everyone is used to the new set. At 13.5' the 56" should be good. Size isn't the issue. But, if you are stepping up from a 27" or 32" set it will seem overwhelming at first ... that will only last a few days.

I don't think that the 1080p sets themselves will help with your problem. They will have even more punch than the 5667 and a larger dynamic range. But, you will be able to turn them down to a point where there won't be any viewing problems. You should try to just adjust the 5667 because it can be turned down just as easily.

One more thing to check ... make sure you are in the right mode on the TV. These TV's have a dynamic mode that runs the lamp at 132W vs the 120W used in the other modes. If you are using dynamic mode, switch to one of the other settings.

If you could tell us a little more about your exact room, lighting and her exact complaints we could be more specific.

plutocracy,

when you say "drop in detail" do you mean less detail from your prior TV using
same DVD player?

Different dvd, though standard panasonic also. The detail and black level on the Toshiba 32" crt was incredible, and for only $400. Even with my crap dvd and connections the overall picture and experience of this 5667 is extraordinary. Like vhs to dvd.

P

For the first time vga input on a tv users out there
(been using rca for years all i got!)

Do you need a video card that can output 1920x1080 in order to get a picture on the vga input?

or can you use powerstrip or a similar program on a lower res card to get a picture (all be it one that is not as good) or will it just be a blank screen?

For the first time vga input on a tv users out there
(been using rca for years all i got!)

Do you need a video card that can output 1920x1080 in order to get a picture on the vga input?

or can you use powerstrip or a similar program on a lower res card to get a picture (all be it one that is not as good) or will it just be a blank screen?

If you go to POST #1 and click on the Owners Manual for the TV you are interested in (either 68 or 78 series), it will list all of the supported resolutions. But, to answer your question: the TV's support a range of input resolutions and the screen will not be blank. Just pick a signal that is listed in the owners manual.

Different dvd, though standard panasonic also. The detail and black level on the Toshiba 32" crt was incredible, and for only $400. Even with my crap dvd and connections the overall picture and experience of this 5667 is extraordinary. Like vhs to dvd.

P

The black level and constrast on the TV you ordered should be a great deal better than the 5667 but not sure how it will compare to the toshiba 32" crt...

Just looking over the manual for the HLRxx68. In the section on changing the bulb is the following statement:

For replacement, you will need a 5.91-Inch screwdriver and a pair of gloves.

I'm sure you will all be rushing out to get your 5.91" screwdrivers to be prepared in case of bulb failure! Clearly a 6 incher will not do! :D :D

I have a cheap panasonic dvd, component to stereo receiver back to tv component input.
This is where you can improve image quality the easiest.

In addition to what Bill suggested about lighting, especially a back light, you can have the set calibrated by an ISF trained technician and get better detail with less brightness.

Also try not to have any lights that reflect directly onto the screen.

A couple of follow-up questions.

From the technical drawings it appears that for the 68 series (56, 61,67) the TVs actually rest on the central thin base that is only 28.63 inches wide.

If I put one of these TVs on a flat wood TV stand is it correct that only this small section would actually be holding all the weight of the TV? The rest/sides of the TV appears to float over the TV stand. If true, then the purpose of a stand that is as wide as the TV would be to hold more gear and/or aesthetics? As well as some marginal safety if the TV was bumped and started to rock.

Some of the Samsung stands appear to have a resessed section in the middle to accommodate this thin/flat central pedestal and would thus allow all of the TV to rest on the stand. Is this correct or am I seeing things?

A couple of follow-up questions.

From the technical drawings it appears that for the 68 series (56, 61,67) the TVs actually rest on the central thin base that is only 28.63 inches wide.

If I put one of these TVs on a flat wood TV stand is it correct that only this small section would actually be holding all the weight of the TV? The rest/sides of the TV appears to float over the TV stand. If true, then the purpose of a stand that is as wide as the TV would be to hold more gear and/or aesthetics? As well as some marginal safety if the TV was bumped and started to rock.

Some of the Samsung stands appear to have a resessed section in the middle to accommodate this thin/flat central pedestal and would thus allow all of the TV to rest on the stand. Is this correct or am I seeing things?

You are not seeing things. That is a stabilization "foot" that is on the 61 and 67" sets, and is designed for use with the stock Samsung stand. If you look at the samsung stand for the larger models, you will note that it has a notch dug out of the middle in which to place the stabilizing "foot" (which is attached to the bottom of the set). For other stands, one can tilt the television on it's side to remove the foot with a screwdriver (I believe a screwdriver, but I could be wrong. It can DEFINITELY be removed). I would suggest that one NOT put one of these sets on a regular stand without removing the foot, and I would certainly not by a stand that is not wide enough to accomidate at least 80% of the width of the set.

For replacement, you will need a 5.91-Inch screwdriver and a pair of gloves.

I'm sure you will all be rushing out to get your 5.91" screwdrivers to be prepared in case of bulb failure! Clearly a 6 incher will not do! :D :D

Likely a case of automatic conversion. 15 cm is 5.9055.... in. I sure wish the USA switched to metric.

(sigh)

since it appears these new 1080p models are trickling out, can we have seperate owner's thread for each tv, ie one for xx88, one for xx68, etc ?

since it appears these new 1080p models are trickling out, can we have seperate owner's thread for each tv, ie one for xx88, one for xx68, etc ?

I think that's a good idea once they go out, but that hasn't happened yet unfortunately... :( :( :(

rhagar, in the Powerbuy thread beat me to it, but the HLR6768 & HLR6168 are up on the Samsung website. Looks like we are getting closer and closer. :D :D

Just looking over the manual for the HLRxx68. In the section on changing the bulb is the following statement:

For replacement, you will need a 5.91-Inch screwdriver and a pair of gloves.

I'm sure you will all be rushing out to get your 5.91" screwdrivers to be prepared in case of bulb failure! Clearly a 6 incher will not do! :D :D


After months of reading all the posts in this and other forums, I have decided what DLP to buy, what stand to put in on, what DVD player to hook up to it, and what type of connection to use.
Now it appears that I have yet another decision to make. What kind of 5.91 inch screwdriver to get. What manufactuer do I buy from? What model and color? Do I buy one that is made of steel, or do I get one made from light weight composite material? Will there be a Power Buy? And the most important question...What is the projected shipping date of these screwdrivers?
Schaffer970, if you are able to locate any manuals for these screwdrivers, it might help deciding which one to get.

After months of reading all the posts in this and other forums, I have decided what DLP to buy, what stand to put in on, what DVD player to hook up to it, and what type of connection to use.
Now it appears that I have yet another decision to make. What kind of 5.91 inch screwdriver to get. What manufactuer do I buy from? What model and color? Do I buy one that is made of steel, or do I get one made from light weight composite material? Will there be a Power Buy? And the most important question...What is the projected shipping date of these screwdrivers?
Schaffer970, if you are able to locate any manuals for these screwdrivers, it might help deciding which one to get.



LMAO:)

After months of reading all the posts in this and other forums, I have decided what DLP to buy, what stand to put in on, what DVD player to hook up to it, and what type of connection to use.
Now it appears that I have yet another decision to make. What kind of 5.91 inch screwdriver to get. What manufactuer do I buy from? What model and color? Do I buy one that is made of steel, or do I get one made from light weight composite material? Will there be a Power Buy? And the most important question...What is the projected shipping date of these screwdrivers?
Schaffer970, if you are able to locate any manuals for these screwdrivers, it might help deciding which one to get.

Scott,

This is a post for the 5.91 inch screwdriver forum...

However, to answer your question, there will be a PowerBuy for the Craftsman 5.91 inch black all-weather steel screwdriver. Please refer to the aforementioned screwdriver forum for more details. Word is they were delayed, but we will now be expecting them MUCH SOONER than had been anticipated. We will be posting technical drawings for these as well shortly.

since it appears these new 1080p models are trickling out, can we have seperate owner's thread for each tv, ie one for xx88, one for xx68, etc ?

Yes but if we start it now it will become buried so we have to wait until the first person receives them and then they can start the thread :)

Scott5644, gazelle & Clorox thanks for adding to my post. I was beginning to be concerned that we had all lost our sense of humor, but I see that all is well!

By the way, we will have to hold off on the SCREWDRIVER Powerbuy until it can be determined whether we need a straight or phillips head. Certainly this cannot be done until someone actually receives a set. :D :D

Scott5644, gazelle & Clorox thanks for adding to my post. I was beginning to be concerned that we had all lost our sense of humor, but I see that all is well!

By the way, we will have to hold off on the SCREWDRIVER Powerbuy until it can be determined whether we need a straight or phillips head. Certainly this cannot be done until someone actually receives a set. :D :D


Always good to have a poster take you back down to earth once in a while and put back in perspective that we sometimes take ourselves too seriously here, my wife sometimes accomplishes the same thing:)

LOL!! I tried not laughing in class...damn you all!

*makes note to take of eh stabilization foot before putting his TV on a table*

I totally wouldn't have thought of that.

- D

Hello! Long time lurker, first time poster here...

First of all, I'd like to say thanks to everyone who has contributed to this thread and the admins of this wonderful forum. I didn't know anything a few months ago about home theater systems and I have learned so much from this place. Thanks to everyone's hard work, I've been able to decide on a 6168 when they are released.

Now, I have a few questions regarding the new Sammy DLPs:

There seems to be a lot of reports of controller lag on the new Sammy 67 sets when it comes to ps2 and xbox gaming. There also seems to be some video lag when it comes to using a home theater reciever for sound with the video connected to the tv, theoretically due to the video processing of the tv. I remember seeing a post somewhere that describes the vga adapter as bypassing the upconverting and video processing (such as DNIe).

1. Is this correct? Does the VGA port bypass the video processing?

2. Would this correct the controller lag experienced with ps2 and xbox systems? Has anyone tried this? (i.e. connecting the system to your pc via a capture device and then outputing the video via dvi->vga or vga->vga.)

3. Would this correct the video lag experienced with using a home reciever as the sound device?

4. If you connect everything via vga instead of dvi, would you be expecting lower quality due to the non-digital video feed, or should it not make much difference if the signal distance is short.

Also, I had a couple questions regarding TVA, someone mentioned that there is a 30 day guarantee with TVA. I searched the entire site and couldn't find exactly what that means. I definitely like the price and other features offered by the TVA powerbuy, but I'm reluctant to buy due from an online retailer due to problems that may be imposed later...

1. Does anyone have a link to the 30 day guarantee policy on TVA or can anyone explain the policy to me? Is it a no questions asked policy? What about return shipping charges... anyone have a clue on the costs?

Thanks in advance for any opinions given.

Vassago

Vassago,
TVA 5 Star Program http://www.tvauthority.com/5starprogram.asp

Folks: I looked at the 6168 manual this morning and there is an optical output which transmits 5.1 audio to your home theater system.

From my perspective, there should be NO lip sync problem with anything that the TV processes. If it comes from another "source," then all bets are off.

I realize what component parts the word "assume" can be broken into. Am I wrong to assume that there should be NO lip sync problems with the internal video processing/ timing?

Folks: I looked at the 6168 manual this morning and there is an optical output which transmits 5.1 audio to your home theater system.

We all knew there was going to be an optical output. But because of the way hdmi works the tv and the box have to communicate and the box gets told what the tv can do and then transmits accordingly. If the tv tells the box (cable, sat, dvd, whatever) that it cannot accept multichannel audio higher than 2.0 then that is what its going to get. The manual says Dolby Digital or PCM are your 2 options. No where does it say 5.1. Dolby digital can mean anything, its just an encoder it doesn't mean the number of channels.

Edit:

And the manual does mention "multi-channel sound" through the optical output. But 2 channel sounds IS multi-channel sound. I would love it if it really does pass the 5.1 signal out the optical output but I don't have my hopes up.

Long time lurker....

It's great news that these systems are almost here. I've been pacing back and forth waiting to see one of these sets in real life.

I'm currently waiting on the 5078, but may end up pulling the trigger for a 56" or larger.

We all knew there was going to be an optical output. But because of the way hdmi works the tv and the box have to communicate and the box gets told what the tv can do and then transmits accordingly. If the tv tells the box (cable, sat, dvd, whatever) that it cannot accept multichannel audio higher than 2.0 then that is what its going to get. The manual says Dolby Digital or PCM are your 2 options. No where does it say 5.1. Dolby digital can mean anything, its just an encoder it doesn't mean the number of channels.

Edit:

And the manual does mention "multi-channel sound" through the optical output. But 2 channel sounds IS multi-channel sound. I would love it if it really does pass the 5.1 signal out the optical output but I don't have my hopes up.


I for one am trying to avoid reading the manual until I know the sets are on the way, otherwise I'll probably wet my pants. In my opinion, it's pretty lame if they're saying stereo sound is "multi-channel". While technically true, I think everyone here agrees that when someone says multi-channel sound, they mean more than 2, and normally that means 5.1. Thanks for the tip on that though.

After months of reading all the posts in this and other forums, I have decided what DLP to buy, what stand to put in on, what DVD player to hook up to it, and what type of connection to use.
Now it appears that I have yet another decision to make. What kind of 5.91 inch screwdriver to get. What manufactuer do I buy from? What model and color? Do I buy one that is made of steel, or do I get one made from light weight composite material? Will there be a Power Buy? And the most important question...What is the projected shipping date of these screwdrivers?
Schaffer970, if you are able to locate any manuals for these screwdrivers, it might help deciding which one to get.

just stay away from the Monster brand $300 screwdriver. Like we debate on the forum A Screwdriver is still a Screwdriver!

NorthJersey, no, no, no. There are clearly subtle differences in screwdrivers. Balance, the feel of the handle, tip size, I'm sure we can go on and on. I think a double-blind test with say 30 or 40 different screwdriver will be necessary to even start the debate. :D :D :D

Ok, I will stop now, but I hope everyone had some fun! I know I have had a smile on my face all morning - now if we could just get a set or two on a truck for delivery. :)

Mike: maybe they are playing games with the specifications, I don't know. But, on page 3, they talk about Dolby 5.1 and then on page 83, they talk about Dolby setup.

Could be an "assumption" on my part. Then, again, maybe not.

It is really a waste of an optical link if all they are transmitting is 2 channel audio.

Can anyone clarify this aspect of operation.

Well I'd think that even if you were sending a HDMI signal (say from your spiffy cable box) to your TV, that you'd send audio direct to the receiver. Because come on, who buys a big screen TV ans uses it's internal speakers? That's like buying a beer keg and still drinking beer from the can.

- D

For the guys who did the powerbuy from TVA, do you also buy the matching stand from TVA as well? Or you have other suggestions? I placed the order yesterday. I am not quite sure about the stand. Any opinion?

RepairMaster RMT45000
Samsung HL-R5668W
Samsung TR46X3

Mike: maybe they are playing games with the specifications, I don't know. But, on page 3, they talk about Dolby 5.1 and then on page 83, they talk about Dolby setup.

Could be an "assumption" on my part. Then, again, maybe not.

It is really a waste of an optical link if all they are transmitting is 2 channel audio.

Can anyone clarify this aspect of operation.

The optical audio output will send DD 5.1 from CableCard 5.1 broadcasts. The HDMI audio input may or may not support DD 5.1 (it doesn't on the HLRxx67W's). We will just have to wait and see how it works. It is an open issue in POST #1.

Well I'd think that even if you were sending a HDMI signal (say from your spiffy cable box) to your TV, that you'd send audio direct to the receiver. Because come on, who buys a big screen TV ans uses it's internal speakers? That's like buying a beer keg and still drinking beer from the can.

Its all about keeping the audio in sync. I believe its been proven that sending the video over hdmi to the (720p) tv then audio over optical from a cable box to a receiver introduces lag. But if you run optical out of the tv to the receiver its gone because the 2 signals are kept together until the tv finishes processing the video, then it allows the audio out of the optical out. So if the tv could pass 5.1 out of its optical output the lag would be completely gone because decoding of that audio is instant. I'm definitely going to try this whenever I get my 6168. I'll hook up hdmi from my dvd player to the tv then optical from tv to receiver and see if I get 5.1 output. If it works with my dvd player I'll then try it with my cable box. But until then no one really knows for sure.

I have been reading this forum for a long time (even before I became a member), but posting for first time. Thanks to UCSB, Schaffer970,htwaits and others. I made my TV decision solely based on this forum (scary!). I have a 6168 pre-ordered thru TVA PB.
I am still not decided on the warranty, though.
Just called samsung to get a list of authorized service centers near my home (not listed on their website) and also asked the rep about when the 6168 will be released. She put me on hold for a minute, came back online and said 'End of July for west coast' and 'August for East coast'. Every indication looks like, we will have the TV's shipping by this month-end!
Still no approval listed on FCC site?

Mike: maybe they are playing games with the specifications, I don't know. But, on page 3, they talk about Dolby 5.1 and then on page 83, they talk about Dolby setup.

Could be an "assumption" on my part. Then, again, maybe not.

It is really a waste of an optical link if all they are transmitting is 2 channel audio.

Can anyone clarify this aspect of operation.

I would bet that the optical link is used for multi-channel sound when the TV is being used as the tuner (via cablecard or OTA, whatever). Presumably most TVs with digital channel tuning ability would have an optical out, but since most (all??) TVs do not have 5.1 decode capability (or at least the speakers necessary to use it), would they accept and usefully use a 5.1 input, whether optical or HDMI?

I believe that the key issue is whether or not the TV passes multi-channel sound from input to output--there is certainly a reasonable amount of evidence that the HLR 68, 78 and 88 series are unlikely to pass-through multi-channel sound, though of course we won't know for sure until someone actually has a set to play with.

-se

I have been reading this forum for a long time (even before I became a member), but posting for first time. Thanks to UCSB, Schaffer970,htwaits and others. I made my TV decision solely based on this forum (scary!). I have a 6168 pre-ordered thru TVA PB.
I am still not decided on the warranty, though.
Just called samsung to get a list of authorized service centers near my home (not listed on their website) and also asked the rep about when the 6168 will be released. She put me on hold for a minute, came back online and said 'End of July for west coast' and 'August for East coast'. Every indication looks like, we will have the TV's shipping by this month-end!
Still no approval listed on FCC site?

I checked the FCC site earlier today. The only thing Samsung's had approved in the past couple of weeks are some cellphones and a microwave.

The optical audio output will send DD 5.1 from CableCard 5.1 broadcasts. The HDMI audio input may or may not support DD 5.1 (it doesn't on the HLRxx67W's). We will just have to wait and see how it works. It is an open issue in POST #1.

Ack, yeah. I keep forgetting about cable cards. All my posts were only about HDMI.

Well I'd think that even if you were sending a HDMI signal (say from your spiffy cable box) to your TV, that you'd send audio direct to the receiver. Because come on, who buys a big screen TV ans uses it's internal speakers? That's like buying a beer keg and still drinking beer from the can.

- D
But we are trying to keep the video and audio signals in synch. Since the video always seems to lag the audio, we want the TV to pace both of them. We want the TV to do its video thing and then send the audio back out in 5.1 so the receiver can do its thing (with no lag). We would like to just turn off the TV audio in that case.

If this is true then we need a whole bunch of HDMI ports and not just one, but so far I will settle for 1 this way that I can use for my most precious device. It may be a PS2/XBOX, DVD or STB, whichever seems to need the most help in synch issues or the one I care about the most.

Its all about keeping the audio in sync. I believe its been proven that sending the video over hdmi to the (720p) tv then audio over optical from a cable box to a receiver introduces lag. But if you run optical out of the tv to the receiver its gone because the 2 signals are kept together until the tv finishes processing the video, then it allows the audio out of the optical out. So if the tv could pass 5.1 out of its optical output the lag would be completely gone because decoding of that audio is instant. I'm definitely going to try this whenever I get my 6168. I'll hook up hdmi from my dvd player to the tv then optical from tv to receiver and see if I get 5.1 output. If it works with my dvd player I'll then try it with my cable box. But until then no one really knows for sure.

That's an interesting point, and I definetley look forward to your findings because if I do audio from the cable/dvd to receiver it's a 6' toslink cable and a 25' hdmi cable. If I have to go from the TV to the receiver, then it's a 25' toslink cable and a 25' hdmi cable, so you can see why I'd like to know the answer :\

- D

Just got back from a three week vacation in Europe where I decided to avoid checking into this forum (the first few days of withdrawal were the worst!). Anyway, I just read through the past 16 pages of posts since I left in mid-June to get caught up on progress and new developments. Disappointed to see that not has much has changed (in so many ways) and that the HLRxx68 and HLRxx78 sets are still not available. I was expecting to tune in today and read reviews of these new sets.

they're coming, don't worry! very very soon! We're all waiting with you :)

- D

The problem, of course, is that if the HDMI inputs on the set do not accept 5.1, then the TV will not be able to pass the 5.1 out of the optical.

For the guys who did the powerbuy from TVA, do you also buy the matching stand from TVA as well? Or you have other suggestions? I placed the order yesterday. I am not quite sure about the stand. Any opinion?

RepairMaster RMT45000
Samsung HL-R5668W
Samsung TR46X3

This is my first HD. I am buying 6168 and I am definitely going to purchase the Samsung stand. There are a few features that make Samsung stand attractive for people like me who want simplicity.
Amazon also offers the stands -- possibly at lower cost. I can not post URL yet.

Oooh they're so close I can TASTE it and it tastes like 5.91" Screwdriver.....

http://doityourself.com/ori/200x200/6084784.jpg

:D :D :D :D :D :D

- D

I have been lurking on this thread for the last couple of months since I sent my third defective Hitachi 60vx915 back and have been trying to decide what to buy next (it really should not be this hard to spend this much money). So thanks for all the really good input.

I do have a couple of possibly helpful hints for those who are looking for center speaker stands and video switching.

Sanus has a center speaker stand that can be used with most any TV for only $35.00. Look at sanus website for more details.

Focus Enhancements (look at focusinfo web site for more info) has been blowing out inventory on their video scalers at huge discounts (less than most video switchers). Their CS-HD will scale all your SD video sources out to either DVI or VGA as well as provide video switching. I got one because I was tired of watching really bad DTV SD channels on my 60 inch set. The CS-HD actually made them watchable. With a 480P signal from my DVD player, the image was very good. Almost up to HD standards.

In the mean time I will sit here looking at my old 27" Sony and try to be patient!

The problem, of course, is that if the HDMI inputs on the set do not accept 5.1, then the TV will not be able to pass the 5.1 out of the optical.
On the HLR 67 sets they 'stole' one of the HDMI inputs for the cablecard I think. I wonder if that makes us feel any better?

When I am watching DVD movies, the horizontal lines are not really straight across the tv. they dip alittle in the middle. Now I know like everyone else in this forum, we want everything perfect. Is there a way that I can fix this. Does this have to be done in the service menu, and if so how do I get in there. I will write all my info down first, what do I need to adjust to make my horizontal and vertical lines look straighter. Please help.

When I am watching DVD movies, the horizontal lines are not really straight across the tv. they dip alittle in the middle. Now I know like everyone else in this forum, we want everything perfect. Is there a way that I can fix this. Does this have to be done in the service menu, and if so how do I get in there. I will write all my info down first, what do I need to adjust to make my horizontal and vertical lines look straighter. Please help.


It sounds to me like you're using the wrong mode (Panaramic I believe) Another poster above was describing a similar sympton. I'm not sure which setting you have to change as I've never owned a Samsung DLP, but it's quite easy IIRC.

- D

When I am watching DVD movies, the horizontal lines are not really straight across the tv. they dip alittle in the middle. Now I know like everyone else in this forum, we want everything perfect. Is there a way that I can fix this. Does this have to be done in the service menu, and if so how do I get in there. I will write all my info down first, what do I need to adjust to make my horizontal and vertical lines look straighter. Please help.

I know that crt screens can be affected by unshielded speakers. Do DLP screens suffer the same trouble? Do you have a unshielded speaker near your screen? Just a thought. Someone correct me if I am wrong! :)

I know that crt screens can be affected by unshielded speakers. Do DLP screens suffer the same trouble? Do you have a unshielded speaker near your screen? Just a thought. Someone correct me if I am wrong! :)

Display's and electronics don't like unshielded equipment period. LCD's, CRT's, RPTV's, sheild your speakers! It's always the best bet. I think pretty much every speaker you buy now is shielded anyways, that way the company isn't liable a consumer putting it near or on their TV and having it go all wonky.

The below poster's statement helps as well. Although your TV may not be affected, other components may be.

- D

I know that crt screens can be affected by unshielded speakers. Do DLP screens suffer the same trouble? Do you have a unshielded speaker near your screen? Just a thought. Someone correct me if I am wrong! :)
Like any mirror, DLPs are not effected by magnets. :)

Forgive me my ignorance regarding the following question:

For a novice like myself, will there be any appreciable difference between a Samsung w/ 720P v. 1080? I understand that the 1080 is technically superior, however, will I really be able to notice a difference? I appreciate your patience with a newbie question.

All I was wondering was how do I make the lines straighter. When watching something in dvd mode or 4:3, the lines are not all the way straight, they BOW a little. How can I fix this. Is there a way to get into the service menu. How do I get in. What should I change. Will write everything down.

All I was wondering was how do I make the lines straighter. When watching something in dvd mode or 4:3, the lines are not all the way straight, they BOW a little. How can I fix this. Is there a way to get into the service menu. How do I get in. What should I change. Will write everything down.

Please see the post two above, I just replied to question, no need to post it a second time. I suggest reading the manual for "Display Modes". I'm quite sure it's a simple setting in the menu (not the service menu, you stay out of there). There may even be a button on your remote.

I'm sure someone else may be able to elaborate a little more, however even my simple instructions should get you on the right path.

- D

Forgive me my ignorance regarding the following question:

For a novice like myself, will there be any appreciable difference between a Samsung w/ 720P v. 1080? I understand that the 1080 is technically superior, however, will I really be able to notice a difference? I appreciate your patience with a newbie question.

Don't feel ashamed! You will indeed notice a difference, however as has been stated elsewhere in this massive thread - there will be differences. It really depends on your source material. Basically "garbage in, garbage out". The TV itself will improve your standard television channels slightly, simply because it's upconverting them. The contrast ratio is one of the bigger draws as well. Everything will be darker, blacker, and more vibrant. You are also correct that 1080p is technically better then 720p - as more detail and lines to display that detail on are available.

Cheers!

- D

Thank you for replying. As I come up with more questions, I'll post them, too. lol

For a novice like myself, will there be any appreciable difference between a Samsung w/ 720P v. 1080? I understand that the 1080 is technically superior, however, will I really be able to notice a difference? I appreciate your patience with a newbie question.

The 1080p Samsung sets will have that 10000:1 contrast ratio, and of course the added resolution will make the set look better sitting closer. I have read a report that said sitting closer than 5* the height of the set you should definately see a difference, however if you sit farther the extra resolution will be lost. Don't know if this is true or not, but it makes sense. It also depends on how good your vision is (20/20, etc). Then you have to decide if this improvement is worth the premium price to you. You should probably wait to see the difference (I didn't wait, but I'm happy with the 720p set I got at the price I got).

All I was wondering was how do I make the lines straighter. When watching something in dvd mode or 4:3, the lines are not all the way straight, they BOW a little. How can I fix this. Is there a way to get into the service menu. How do I get in. What should I change. Will write everything down.

This issue comes up on a regular basis. I have never heard a solution for this problem. I'm not saying that there isn't one, but as far as I know I have never read anything that describes how to fix this problem. The closest report that I have seen, was a report where someone reseated their light engine and it improved the problem. If that was the case, it would mean that small issues with the alignment of the light engine and screen may be a partial cause of the problem.

On the other hand, this problem seems to be reported across a range of models and manufacturers and may be just part of RPTV. I have been surprised at the variance that we see in comments. From lines that are as straight as an arrow, to a 1/2" of bowing. So there seems to be some variance in the problem on a given set ... which really surprises.

Obviously, if you have anything on top of the TV like a center channel speaker that is slightly deforming the screen, it should be removed to see if there is any improvement.

One question, when you were transporting the TV home did you have to lay the TV down at any time (for example, on its back in a truck or SUV)?

This issue comes up on a regular basis. I have never heard a solution for this problem. I'm not saying that there isn't one, but as far as I know I have never read anything that describes how to fix this problem. The closest report that I have seen, was a report where someone reseated their light engine and it improved the problem. If that was the case it would mean that small issues with alignment of light engine and screen may be a partial cause of the problem.

On the other hand, this problem seems to be reported across a range of models and manufacturers and may be just part of RPTV. I have been surprise at the variance that we see in comments. From lines that are as straight as an arrow, to a 1/2" of bowing. So there seems to be some variance in the problem on a given set ... which really surprises.

One question, when you were transporting the TV home did you have to lay the TV down at any time?

Hmmm I was unaware this more of a serious problem then I thought... See this is what I get for assuming when I don't own a DLP yet.... Eek I hope i don't have this issue when mine arrives

- D

it was delivered to me from CC, The HD picture is amazing on it. Was just wondering if there is any way to fix the bowing at all. It isnt much of a problem. Not really noticable. Was just wondering if there was a tweak that I could do to it.

it was delivered to me from CC, The HD picture is amazing on it. Was just wondering if there is any way to fix the bowing at all. It isnt much of a problem. Not really noticable. Was just wondering if there was a tweak that I could do to it.

Call Samsung and see if they have a fix. This is one issue that I wish we knew how to fix.

Hmmm I was unaware this more of a serious problem then I thought... See this is what I get for assuming when I don't own a DLP yet.... Eek I hope i don't have this issue when mine arrives

- D

Complaints about vertical lines (4:3 material in Normal Mode) are what we usually hear. But, complaints about horizontal lines are very, very rare. If it is visible on your TV, you quickly get used to it and don't really notice it.

Forgive me my ignorance regarding the following question:

For a novice like myself, will there be any appreciable difference between a Samsung w/ 720P v. 1080? I understand that the 1080 is technically superior, however, will I really be able to notice a difference? I appreciate your patience with a newbie question.

Well I didn't think that i'd be able to tell the difference between 720P and 1080P. But a few days ago i went to a Magnolia/Bestbuy and looked at a 1080P tv with a 1080i source playing on it. It looked GREAT, and there was an obvious improvement. In fact, the picture looked so clear it lookes almost 3d!!!! and unless i'm mistaken, 1080P is BETTER than 1080i! so YEAH... they'll be a difference :D

AHH I FELT LIKE A LITTLE KID OPENING PRESENTS TODAY AS I LOOKED AT THE SAMSUNG WEBSITE!!!!!!!!!!1

Forgive me my ignorance regarding the following question:

For a novice like myself, will there be any appreciable difference between a Samsung w/ 720P v. 1080? I understand that the 1080 is technically superior, however, will I really be able to notice a difference? I appreciate your patience with a newbie question.

If you live in a larger urban area, call around and see if anyone is displaying the Qualia 006 in your area (here on the west coast, many of us have gone down to Magnolia HiFi). If so, go down and look at it. It is a 1080p set and you can quickly form you own opinion about 720p / 1080p. Hint: no preparation neccessary, you will be able to quickly see the difference.

If you live in a larger urban area, call around and see if anyone is displaying the Qualia 006 in your area (here on the west coast, many of us have gone down to Magnolia HiFi). If so, go down and look at it. It is a 1080p set and you can quickly form you own opinion about 720p / 1080p. Hint: no preparation neccessary, you will be able to quickly see the difference.

Make sure they show you a real 1080i source. When I went to my local Myer-Emco to look at the Qualia, they were showing a progressive DVD of all things. Wasn't too impressive. They couldn't figure out how to switch it back to real HD (not DirecTV HD, which isn't 1080i).

So preferably OTA HD from anything other than Fox. DirecTV HD won't look much better on a 1080i versus 720p set.

One thing that I find puzzling on the issue of multi-channel sound into the set via HDMI is that the set itself *must* have an audio decoder in order to decode the multi-channel sound that originates from some of the HD programming and then send it to its own two channel speaker system. So, the only thing creating the issue here is the implementation of the HDMI port/chipset. It must be designed purposely to accept only 2-channel audio, forcing the device feeding it to decode and downmix the audio. But why bother if the set itself also must have an audio decoder capable of downmixing to feed the set's own speakers. I suspect maybe this is one of those legacy design implementations that no one bothered to address; initial sets were just "monitors" and therefore only needed to accept the signals from the source whereas most newer sets, given the FCC's regulations/rules, now must have their own tuners, etc.

Make sure they show you a real 1080i source. When I went to my local Myer-Emco to look at the Qualia, they were showing a progressive DVD of all things. Wasn't too impressive. They couldn't figure out how to switch it back to real HD (not DirecTV HD, which isn't 1080i).

So preferably OTA HD from anything other than Fox. DirecTV HD won't look much better on a 1080i versus 720p set.

I saw the 006 at a Myer Emco in Fairfax. It had a very impressive picture with HD and DVD. The picture from HDnet was just like looking through a window. They also had the Return of the King DVD in and that picture looked excellent as well. You had to get within a foot of the screen to even see the pixel structure.

I'm trying to decide which is the right DLP for me and whether it's worth waiting for the perfect set. I've scanned a ton of posts but (being a newbie & not familiar with all the jargon) I still can't answer some basic quesitons.


I'll most likely need a 46" screen, although I might (with wife's permission) be able to shoe-horn a 50" into the available space. Viewing distance will be 12' to 13'. Will it make sense to wait for a 1080p 46" set--assuming Samsung decides to make one down the road--or will I even notice any improvement over 720p? (10,000:1 contrast ratio sounds fantastic).
What good do HCMI ports do for 1080p sets? If I understand what I've read, they can only handle up to 720p. Any idea when HCMI might deliver the full potential of 1080p resolution?
I've read that cable cards will not be going anywhere and that the only way to eliminate the cable box will be through down-loadable codes. Will current Samsung's (I've had my eye on the R4667) allow code upgrades so that I don't end up buying a cable-ready tv and still have to use a cable box for movies, interactive program guide, etc?


Sorry to be so basic, but any answers would be greatly appreciated.

Angus

Sorry, I meant HDMI in my first post. (There's that jargon again.)

Angus

Sorry, I meant HDMI in my first post. (There's that jargon again.)

You can use the "edit" button associated with your first message to correct it.

I'll most likely need a 46" screen, although I might (with wife's permission) be able to shoe-horn a 50" into the available space. Viewing distance will be 12' to 13'. Will it make sense to wait for a 1080p 46" set--assuming Samsung decides to make one down the road--or will I even notice any improvement over 720p?


From that distance you would need a much bigger screen to tell the difference between 1080p and 720p.

I disagree- i was looking at a 55" t.v. (i'm not quite sure- it might've been a 50") and i was standing about 17 feet away (estimate) and i could EASILY tell that it was playing from a 1080i source. there's a pretty big difference. So my guess is that you will be able to tell the difference on the 46" from 12-13 feet away.

The t.v. was very nice by the way... it was a Konijawa or sumthin like that... another one of those weird japanese names. :D

I'm trying to decide which is the right DLP for me and whether it's worth waiting for the perfect set. I've scanned a ton of posts but (being a newbie & not familiar with all the jargon) I still can't answer some basic quesitons.

If you don't have an HD set already, then don't wait to step up. There is plenty to like in these 2005 sets. Once you have one of these sets (and the proper sources) you won't be looking back to the old SD days. Forget about the perfect set, I have never seen one, but determine if you like what you are seeing in the sets that you are evaluating.


I'll most likely need a 46" screen, although I might (with wife's permission) be able to shoe-horn a 50" into the available space. Viewing distance will be 12' to 13'. Will it make sense to wait for a 1080p 46" set--assuming Samsung decides to make one down the road--or will I even notice any improvement over 720p? (10,000:1 contrast ratio sounds fantastic).
I'd take another look at the room and see if you can rearrange things to get a 56" with your 12'-13', but if you can't, go with the 50". It won't make sense to wait a year or more to step down to 46".

What good do HDMI ports do for 1080p sets? If I understand what I've read, they can only handle up to 720p. Any idea when HDMI might deliver the full potential of 1080p resolution?
They handle up to 1080i which the set easily converts to 1080p. Next year we will probably see 1080p, but we haven't completely given up on seeing it this year.


I've read that cable cards will not be going anywhere and that the only way to eliminate the cable box will be through down-loadable codes. Will current Samsung's (I've had my eye on the R4667) allow code upgrades so that I don't end up buying a cable-ready tv and still have to use a cable box for movies, interactive program guide, etc?
The CableCard features are described in the manuals in POST #1 (you can also call your cable company to see what they are supporting). They are enough to use the set with all types of channels (SD, HD, etc.). But, they do not support two way features offered on some cable systems. I would not expect any firmware (code) updates or hardware updates in the future that will expand the functionality of the CableCard features. Probably the best combination on some systems, such as Comcast cable, is to get a CableCard and an external HD DVR (like the Motorola 6412).

I'll most likely need a 46" screen, although I might (with wife's permission) be able to shoe-horn a 50" into the available space. Viewing distance will be 12' to 13'. Will it make sense to wait for a 1080p 46" set--assuming Samsung decides to make one down the road--or will I even notice any improvement over 720p? (10,000:1 contrast ratio sounds fantastic).


I second UCSB's comments about trying to go 50" ... My setup will have me 10-11' away, and at that distance I'm positive a 46" will start to look small after the initial excitement wears off. If I'm going to spend the money on technology of this calibre, I'm going to maximize my enjoyment of it ... the jump up to 50" typically isn't that much more expensive. If you have 46.5" of available width or more, I'd go with one of the Samsung HLR50xxW sets (either 720p or upcoming 1080p), or maybe the upcoming Sony KDF-E50A10. If you have a bit more than 50" of width, you could even think about the 56" Samsung HLR5677W ... the ultra thin bezel of that set's cabinet looks fantastic and is about as compact as you can get for the screen size. I saw it at my local Ovation and it had a fantastic picture. Too bad they didn't make a 50" in the 77 series :rolleyes:

Good luck!

I'll pass along the latest from TVA regarding the Powerbuy:

Just a quick update to let you know we are checking in daily with Samsung. The latest word is the HL-R5668W/HL-R6168W models have been shipped from the factory and are on their way to us. We are still awaiting details on the exact number of pieces sent and will update you with any new information we receive.



We’ve had a few pre-order cancellations recently but based upon the last count, we are still over 250 orders so it appears we will be giving away a TV to one lucky TV Authority customer!



Thanks again for your continued patience and it looks like we will be filling orders soon.



Best Regards,



TV Authority Sales

^^

*giggles like a little school girl* oooooooooooh I WANT I WANT!

*prepares his 5.91" screwdriver*

- D

Daphoid, no running with pointy objects (such as 5.91" screwdrivers). :D

Sowwwy Mr. Nine Seventy Man..... I won't do it again, promise!

*goes back to watching his 24" TV and sobs quietly*

- D

Does anyone know where I could find the 5078 once they are available? I hate the black lacquer bezel but the wife wants smaller than 56 and I want 1080p.

Thanks....

Amazon has the 5078 listed.

I will post some details very soon (i promise!) on the 78 series in our power buy thread. Amazon show these as currently unavailable so it could be a seller listing them but i'd be very surprised to see Amazon selling the specialty products.

Kirk

Thanks for the heads up Kirk!

Oooh it's so close, somebody hold me!

- D

Well, since these are the speakers I'll be listening to while watching my beautiful 6168, how could this possibly be an irrelevant subject!! :D I'll have 2 pairs of KEF Q5's (front and surround), a Q6 center and a 15" Velodyne sub. My room is 200 sq ft. Anyone ever own KEF's?

I'd like to make sure I understand what the cable card function of the xx68 does for you. I have Directv satellite and I'm not inclined to change it without a compelling reason. I currently also have Tivo and like it. Actually, what I like is the simplicity and brainless nature. I see something and press record or set a season ticket for Formula 1 and never worry about missing something and can watch when convenient. Or more important, I can watch the Tour de France and press rewind when I'm writing this and miss something.

So, with a new xx68 what do I do?

Do I buy an HDTV Tivo and use it's tuners for channel selection and recording?

Do I put the Directv card into the new TV and use that for channel selection?

If so, what do I use for a DVR? In other words, would I still want Tivo or buy something generic? Would the something else be as brainless to use as the Tivo?

I've heard that Directv is getting ready to drop Tivo and do something new. Is that true?

If so, how does that affect my decision?

And I guess I have to ask, should I do something entirely different? Is there any reason to change my Directv to something different?

The cable card slot is only for use with your local cable service. Rather than getting a box from your local cable provider that includes a tuner, the tuner is built into the set and your local cable provider puts a card into the slot which enables that tuner with the proper authorization from your local cable provider.

Do these TV's have dual-display capabilities? If so, can you adjust the sizes? Would both be displayed in HD? Thanks.

I'd like to make sure I understand what the cable card function of the xx68 does for you. I have Directv satellite and I'm not inclined to change it without a compelling reason. I currently also have Tivo and like it. Actually, what I like is the simplicity and brainless nature. I see something and press record or set a season ticket for Formula 1 and never worry about missing something and can watch when convenient. Or more important, I can watch the Tour de France and press rewind when I'm writing this and miss something.

So, with a new xx68 what do I do?

Do I buy an HDTV Tivo and use it's tuners for channel selection and recording?

Do I put the Directv card into the new TV and use that for channel selection?

If so, what do I use for a DVR? In other words, would I still want Tivo or buy something generic? Would the something else be as brainless to use as the Tivo?

I've heard that Directv is getting ready to drop Tivo and do something new. Is that true?

If so, how does that affect my decision?

And I guess I have to ask, should I do something entirely different? Is there any reason to change my Directv to something different?

If you are used to owning a TIVO ... you are absolutely going to want a HD DVR.

Do these TV's have dual-display capabilities? If so, can you adjust the sizes? Would both be displayed in HD? Thanks.

All of the PIP (Picture in Picture) combinations are described in the owners manuals. There is a nice little table that shows all of the valid combinations

For those waiting for the HLR5078W or HLR5678W, TV Authority has a small number coming in next week. Act fast! See Kirk's post in TV Authority powerbuy thread.

Also, it looks like the first shipment of HLR5668W's and HLR6168W's will be arriving at TV Authority's Sacramento warehouse NEXT WEEK!!!

i know its been said several times, but i forget- how long do these Powerbuys last? will i be able to see my 6168/6768 before buying it on the Powerbuy?

And i know the exact price can't be said... but can someone tell me if it will beat the PCRichards price?

And i know the exact price can't be said... but can someone tell me if it will beat the PCRichards price?
Follow the power buy link at the top of this forum's thread list. You can check the TVA price for your self. Just be sure to follow directions.

o yeah- and i noticed on the TVAuthority website it has the MSRP of the 6768 listed at $6,999. Didn't the MSRP get lowered?

o yeah- and i noticed on the TVAuthority website it has the MSRP of the 6768 listed at $6,999. Didn't the MSRP get lowered?

There has been a lot of confusion and conflicting signals about the 6768 MSRP. Initially, and maybe even now, it was $6,999. I'll change it in POST #1 once I see what they put up on the Samsung site.

i know its been said several times, but i forget- how long do these Powerbuys last? will i be able to see my 6168/6768 before buying it on the Powerbuy?

And i know the exact price can't be said... but can someone tell me if it will beat the PCRichards price?

PowerBuys last 30 days after the ALL of the units in the PowerBuy start shipping. So you will have time to get plenty of feedback, go down and see them and still place an order.

o yeah- and i noticed on the TVAuthority website it has the MSRP of the 6768 listed at $6,999. Didn't the MSRP get lowered?
Did you get into the AVS members area? :)

Once you are in the members area you have to put the TV into your shopping cart to see the discount price.

Awsome! and i'm guessing you mean 30 days? And sorry for making you guys repeat this, but how do u get to the Powerbuy stuff/members only parts of the TVAuthority website? I can't remember how for the life of me :o

And sorry for making you guys repeat this, but how do u get to the Powerbuy stuff/members only parts of the TVAuthority website? I can't remember how for the life of me :o
Read the two messages I just wrote.

I'm one of the "on the fence" people. I'm torn between the Samsung and the new Mitsubishi 1080p models.
Mits claims that "“We will be seeing many new sources of 1080 content later this year and next year,” said DeMartin. “The new gaming consoles, Blu-ray/HD-DVD technologies and media center PCs will all offer HD content, and the major broadcast and cable networks will begin to transmit 1080 signals at 24 and 30 frames progressive, among the highest HDTV broadcast resolutions available. Mitsubishi 1080p DLP™ HDTVs will be poised to take advantage of the latest HD content and deliver it with unsurpassed picture quality.”
This press release is vague to say the least.
I'm of the understanding that HDMI is 1080i only, and I haven't heard of any new inputs that are 1080p. I haven't heard Samsung say anything about 1080p input, either.
Does anyone have the answers? I don't want to plop down $4 large just to have a tv that won't play the new HD-DVD or BluRay at 1080p.

Awsome! and i'm guessing you mean 30 days?

Yes, sorry. I've fixed it. :o

Read the two messages I just wrote.

Coud you just make it a little easier for El Retardo over here who can't figure out how to use this forum and gimme a link :D

what is the thread list anyways? Is it the bar with arrow thing? cuz when i went there i found a whole bunch of deals er whatever but i couldn't find how to get into the members section

Sorry for being a total idiot :o

http://www.tvauthority.com/avs-members-only.asp

Click that your a member and you'll see powerbuys -

Choose any one and place it into the cart and it'll show the PB Price and with free shipping. and View Cart - You do not have to commit at any of these points use this to do your own comparisons and then if your not interested then logout or empty your cart - nothing lost and no committment required until your ready. I did this exactly for the past 5 weeks until I finally preordered the 6768 last week as I couldn't find any other retailor close in price or service/support.

No Taxes - Free Delivery - 5 Star Support Policy - Forum Sponsor with Positive Track Record.

PC Richards - They have no 1080P DLP's in their online inventory to even compare with, only the 720P model. A Google also brought back a number of Consumer Affair Complaints. There is no such store in our area it appears to be a NY Dealer.

We aren't allowed to link to the Sale Prices of any Site - Against the rules so it has to be done indirectly. MSRP Can only be listed as most Vendors have a MAP Contracts to prevent unauthorized dealers and Fraudulent ones from misusing/abusing pricing. :D

http://www.tvauthority.com/avs-members-only.asp

It seems I was the first to call, and I got a reserve for a 5078!

Now the waiting gets even harder.

So far no rear projection manufacture has provided a HDMI/DVI 1080p 60 Hz input. When or if this will occur is a subject that has been debated at length in various threads.

So far no rear projection manufacture has provided a HDMI/DVI 1080p 60 Hz input. When or if this will occur is a subject that has been debated at length in various threads.

True, but VGA is still nice, and DVI to VGA is easier to do then installing a USB thumb drive.

Also who knows about those HDMI ports, may have to do some tinkering ;).

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ok now!

CABLE CARD:

For all of you that currently have Digital Cable, but DO NOT use any of the Tivo, Video Recorders, etc to RECORD television content, then CableCard may be possible for you. As said earlier, it just takes away the need for a cable tuning box.

If you record stuff, pause live tv, et al, you still use your normal HD DVR (eg: SA 8300HD).

- D

CABLE CARD:

For all of you that currently have Digital Cable, but DO NOT use any of the Tivo, Video Recorders, etc to RECORD television content, then CableCard may be possible for you. As said earlier, it just takes away the need for a cable tuning box.

If you record stuff, pause live tv, et al, you still use your normal HD DVR (eg: SA 8300HD).

- D

OR ... get both CableCard and DVR. It might give you better SD channels.

So what about the 88 series? I thought the 88 series was suppose to be the 1st of the Samsung 1080's to ship?
I put in a preorder with TVA 2 months ago for the 5688 believing this to be the deal.

I'm pissed, b/c TVA didn't mention the 88 series @ all in the Email. :(

what is the thread list anyways?
AVS Forums Navigation 101

The place to start learning about navigating AVS forums is the home page. Here is the URL for AVS forums home page.

http://www.avsforum.com/

If you book mark that page you can navigate to all the areas and forums of the AVS web site.

For now ignore the adds at the top of the page.

On the Home Page look along the left side and you will see a box labeled "Site Navigation".

In the "Site Navigation" box there is a link labeled "Enter Main Forums". Click on that link.

Now you are on the page where there is a list of links for every forum at AVS. The forums are grouped by topic. The first and second groups are "Special Forums Area" and "AVS Club Special Forums". Scroll past those to the third group which is "Display Devices".

There are nine forums listed in the "Display Devices" group. The 8th forum in the list is "Rear Projection Units". That's the forum where you are reading and posting right now.

Click on the "Rear Projection Units" link, and you will be on a page with a very long list of all the RPTV threads that are active. At the top of the list you will see four threads with the word "Sticky" just before the subject of the thread. Those threads are always at the top of the list. Any special announcements like a power buy get pasted there so they are easy to find.

The link to the current Power Buy is titled "AVS/TVAuthority PowerBuy Thread for the new Samsung HLR 1080p Series DLP TVs".

If you scroll down the list you will see the thread where you have been posting. It's title is "Samsung 2005 DLP HDTV Discussion --- HLRxxxxW Models".

It's a good idea to save a book mark for this page if you are interested in Rear Projection TV sets. :)

If you take your time, and explore the links on the home page, the list of forums page, and the "Rear Projection Units" page you will have enough information to keep you busy for a long time. ;)

Good luck.

So what about the 88 series? I thought the 88 series was suppose to be the 1st of the Samsung 1080's to ship?
I put in a preorder with TVA 2 months ago for the 5688 believing this to be the deal.

I'm pissed, b/c TVA didn't mention the 88 series @ all in the Email. :(

I spoke with TVA's Order Status Department today about the 5688 model; which, yes, is conspicuously absent from current discussions. I was told the expected date of arrival was July 24, which no longer puts it in the "first to market" class. Of course, it's still all unconfirmed, at this point, so anything can happen.

I don't mind the wait. It'll give me a chance to get feedback from a few other people before taking the plunge. Maybe we can even make it over to a B/M to see the other model(s), drool a little, and then get ours......

http://www.tvauthority.com/avs-members-only.asp

So where is the 7178? Why is almost everything else available for pre-order but that one?

I spoke with TVA's Order Status Department today about the 5688 model; which, yes, is conspicuously absent from current discussions. I was told the expected date of arrival was July 24, which no longer puts it in the "first to market" class. Of course, it's still all unconfirmed, at this point, so anything can happen.

I don't mind the wait. It'll give me a chance to get feedback from a few other people before taking the plunge. Maybe we can even make it over to a B/M to see the other model(s), drool a little, and then get ours......

RJG, I hear ya buddy, but this is making me feel very uneasy, b/c everytime we get a so-called date, it keeps getting pushed further & further away.

I already ordered all of my Home Theatre equipment that's going to complement my 5688 HDTV, but I can't hook them up & try them out without the darn TV!

You just watch, when the week of 7/24 rolls around, we're going to hear about another so-called release date, I am expecting more delays.
I wonder if i'll get this darn TV before the NFL season starts & XBOX360 launch.
:(

So where is the 7178? Why is almost everything else available for pre-order but that one?I guess they haven't receive any info from Samsung...Sorry I can't help...Call TVA and ask.

So where is the 7178? Why is almost everything else available for pre-order but that one?

Samsung almost always releases the smaller screen sizes first. So we are seeing 50", 56", 61" ... the 67" and 71" will be here soon. Usually just a short delay between the sets. This is not unusual.

http://www.tvauthority.com/avs-members-only.asp

PC Richards - They have no 1080P DLP's in their online inventory to even compare with, only the 720P model. A Google also brought back a number of Consumer Affair Complaints. There is no such store in our area it appears to be a NY Dealer.
:D


As a NY area member who has bought many items from PC Richards, they happen to be one of the best electronics retailers still standing - not just price wise but from their very reputable sales practices. While I cant say that I will buy this from them for other reasons, I wouldnt hestitate to purchase anything from them. Indeed, they are always the chain store that are the price leader.

As a NY area member who has bought many items from PC Richards, they happen to be one of the best electronics retailers still standing - not just price wise but from their very reputable sales practices. While I cant say that I will buy this from them for other reasons, I wouldnt hestitate to purchase anything from them. Indeed, they are always the chain store that are the price leader.

I'm not a fan of PC Richard myself. I went in there just to take a look at some DLPs and the salesman would NOT leave me alone. You could tell he was hungry for commission. I told him I already knew where I was getting my set from, and he kept trying to price match it, but he was only trying to match it exactly, and I told him that it wasn't worth it to me when I knew I would get the set basically faster than anyone else by buying through TVA, including a 1/250 shot at a free set. That's just one experience, and I have had better experiences at some of their other locations, but this was the pits (23rd St. and 6th Ave.) Rich, I notice you are from LI, and I have gone out there to PC Richard, and my experiences have been better.

To clarify my comment re: PCRichards - As a person outside the great NY area they do not exist to us and my comment was based upon what a search returned using Google, many of us are suspect of NY Dealers as they are the primary target of an FBI Probe in Brooklyn and Coney Island per the following link with photo's from that area: http://www.panix.com/~donwiss/pictures/BrooklynStores/

These photo's and the research aren't manufactured or fake - I would say some of these are genuine dealers that happen to be in crappy ghetto surroundings. Many Forum members are suspect of any On-line dealer out of NY due to these reports and the unethical practices they use posing as legitimate on-line dealers. See Fraud Alert Page here: http://www.plasmaplanet.com/CONTACT_US/FRAUD-ALERT.htm

PC Richards is a legitimate Electronics Giant in this area though but the original post questioned whether they could beat the PB of TVA?

My search via Google coughed up the Consumer Affairs Complaints which is unusual as I wasn't even looking for it.

Then when I did the competitive search within their inventory and returned ZERO 1080P DLP's from Samsung - so they had nothing via the Web to compare and I was reporting those results to that Post - PC Richards could not compete since inventory returned ZERO.

Further research shows them to have been started by a Dutch Immigrant for over 95 years - . My post regarding the complaints was intended to be objective since I actually wasn't looking for problems with them but the search engine volunteered them and I would guess there probably isn't a single Consumer Electronics dealer that hasn't had to deal with complaints. I posted what the Google search returned and at the time had no awareness of who they are since I've never heard of them and I've traveled to 38 states.

My apology to a company that's been around and is in fact still around after 95 years - my Post was objectively noted because of the awareness of dozens of fraudulent dealers that are located in Brooklyn and Coney Island that paint that area badly as many are slum front operations I wouldn't buy a pack of gum from let alone a TV costing several thousand dollars. My research beyond the Google Consumer Affairs complaint shows PC Richards & Sons is definitely not one of those losers. :o

I have also shopped at PC Richard and I have never had an issue. Salespeople in genral are pushy so I wouldn't hold that against them. PCR does have discounts for NYPD, NYFD so you can add a nice 10-20% discount if you have a PBA card or something.

I would buy the TV from them if I didn't have to deal with the tax and if they could price match :)

Does anyone have any idea when the HLR-6168W will be selling?

Interesting find some on NY on-line dealers.

To clarify my comment re: PCRichards - As a person outside the great NY area they do not exist to us and my comment was based upon what a search returned using Google, many of us are suspect of NY Dealers as they are the primary target of an FBI Probe in Brooklyn and Coney Island per the following link with photo's from that area: http://www.panix.com/~donwiss/pictures/BrooklynStores/

These photo's and the research aren't manufactured or fake - I would say some of these are genuine dealers that happen to be in crappy ghetto surroundings. Many Forum members are suspect of any On-line dealer out of NY due to these reports and the unethical practices they use posing as legitimate on-line dealers. See Fraud Alert Page here: http://www.plasmaplanet.com/CONTACT_US/FRAUD-ALERT.htm

PC Richards is a legitimate Electronics Giant in this area though but the original post questioned whether they could beat the PB of TVA?

My search via Google coughed up the Consumer Affairs Complaints which is unusual as I wasn't even looking for it.

Then when I did the competitive search within their inventory and returned ZERO 1080P DLP's from Samsung - so they had nothing via the Web to compare and I was reporting those results to that Post - PC Richards could not compete since inventory returned ZERO.

Further research shows them to have been started by a Dutch Immigrant for over 95 years - . My post regarding the complaints was intended to be objective since I actually wasn't looking for problems with them but the search engine volunteered them and I would guess there probably isn't a single Consumer Electronics dealer that hasn't had to deal with complaints. I posted what the Google search returned and at the time had no awareness of who they are since I've never heard of them and I've traveled to 38 states.

My apology to a company that's been around and is in fact still around after 95 years - my Post was objectively noted because of the awareness of dozens of fraudulent dealers that are located in Brooklyn and Coney Island that paint that area badly as many are slum front operations I wouldn't buy a pack of gum from let alone a TV costing several thousand dollars. My research beyond the Google Consumer Affairs complaint shows PC Richards & Sons is definitely not one of those losers. :o


In the immortal words of Michael Cain from Austin Powers: Goldmember:
There are only two kinds of people in this world that I can't stand: those people intolerant of other people's cultures.... and the DUTCH!!

To clarify my comment re: PCRichards - As a person outside the great NY area they do not exist to us and my comment was based upon what a search returned using Google, many of us are suspect of NY Dealers as they are the primary target of an FBI Probe in Brooklyn and Coney Island per the following link with photo's from that area: http://www.panix.com/~donwiss/pictures/BrooklynStores/

BTW, this link with the photos, doesn't say anything about an FBI probe...did you make a mistake or am I missing something.

PC Richards is in no way a disreputable outfit...they are HUGE on Long Island; before there was BB and CC, there was only PCR and The Wiz. The Wiz went the way of the dodo bird. If you do shop at PCR, always, i repeat, always, haggle the price down...it is expected :)

Just hooked up my new HLR 5067w. So far i'm still tweaking but fairly impressed. I'm not seeing any rainbows or other issues people have been having.

XBOX works like a charm.

Pretty much blown away with the quality of DVD's.

My only concern....I'm still trying to decide if the HD signal is as good as i can get it. I've upgraded from my 36 inch sony but so far noticed the HD signal was much sharper and crisp on the sony. This is my only concern so far with this TV as i was expecting a better picture.

My hookup:
Cable runs into my Cable box

Motorola DVR/HD box connected via component to TV. Audio is connected via optical cable to Pioneer Reciever

Toshiba upscale DVD connected via DVI to TV. Audio is connected via optical cable to Pioneer Reciever

Xbox connected with red/white/yellow to TV.

If you do shop at PCR, always, i repeat, always, haggle the price down...it is expected :)
I think that I remember that PC Richards has a "No Returns" policy. Is that right?

I think that I remember that PC Richards has a "No Returns" policy. Is that right?


No, same policy as any other store might have; i.e., open-boxed items not taken back or restocking fee charged. If you mean can you take a TV home, watch it, then decide to return it, I don't know of any large chain that would allow that unless there was something wrong with the set, but I've never done something like that.

If you visit PCR's website (http://www.pcrichard.com/) you can click on the "Policies" link at the bottom of the page for their return policy.

Just hooked up my new HLR 5067w. So far i'm still tweaking but fairly impressed. I'm not seeing any rainbows or other issues people have been having.

XBOX works like a charm.

Pretty much blown away with the quality of DVD's.

My only concern....I'm still trying to decide if the HD signal is as good as i can get it. I've upgraded from my 36 inch sony but so far noticed the HD signal was much sharper and crisp on the sony. This is my only concern so far with this TV as i was expecting a better picture.

My hookup:
Cable runs into my Cable box

Motorola DVR/HD box connected via component to TV. Audio is connected via optical cable to Pioneer Reciever

Toshiba upscale DVD connected via DVI to TV. Audio is connected via optical cable to Pioneer Reciever

Xbox connected with red/white/yellow to TV.

try connecting your cable box via a digital connection, e.g., HDMI or DVI. Also, you may want to try sending the native resolution to the TV, i.e., allow the Sammie to process the image to its native res; otherwise, try sending 720p vs. 1080i from the cable box to the TV. But, IMO, definitely go with a digital connection.

that was my plan but there are no HDMI or DVI connections on the cable box, component is my only option.

"Also, you may want to try sending the native resolution to the TV, i.e., allow the Sammie to process the image to its native res; otherwise, try sending 720p vs. 1080i from the cable box to the TV."

Sorry but im kinda new to this so you lost me a little there. Is this a setting i need to change in the cable box set up?

I don't know of any large chain that would allow that unless there was something wrong with the set, but I've never done something like that.


Best Buy and Circuit City are two that come to mind, but I've never done that either.

Thanks for finding the HLRxx68W manual! I have added it to POST #1. I think that is it ... we have them all. I think that is the last puzzle piece ... we have everything now, including: manual, spec sheets, tech drawings. The works! Thanks for you help!!!

Aren't we still missing the Techinical Drawing for the 7178?

For those waiting for the HLR5078W or HLR5678W, TV Authority has a small number coming in next week. Act fast! See Kirk's post in TV Authority powerbuy thread.

Thanks UCSB for calling attention to Kirk's post. I was only periodically checking the powerbuy thread for the 78 series, and might have missed it. Thank you for keeping this thread so organized and well-run ... it's been an absolute pleasure hearing everyone's thoughts and having the first post to refer back to.

After much deliberation about my room setup and the pros/cons of spending the extra money on a 1080p set, I decided to take the plunge and pre-ordered the HL-R5078W. :D

The main debate was over my ability to notice that much difference between the 720p 5067 and this 1080p set, as I'll likely be a good 11' away from a 50" screen. I mentioned this in the Sony SXRD thread, as I was also debating between the upcoming Sony 50" LCD and SXRD sets. I'm sure I would have loved the 5067, but there's a possibility the room can accomodate a slightly closer arrangement, maybe 9' or so.

More importantly, I decided that I wanted the added flexibility that the higher resolution and additional inputs will hopefully provide. I'm obviously no video expert, but by flexibility I mean that I'm hoping that this set will make it a little easier for my home theater to grow with and proficiently display a wide variety of source material, perhaps even as that source material changes (and hopefully improves). I became less concerned with debates about when we'll see 1080p content, and became more concerned with a 1080p set's ability to improve the display of other resolutions. We shall see...

My experience with TVAuthority has been top notch so far. ;)

Best Buy and Circuit City are two that come to mind, but I've never done that either.
From what I recall BB has a 30 day return policy. Regardless.

Dont quote me, but I remember asking a few months ago.

Aren't we still missing the Techinical Drawing for the 7178?

Yes, sorry ... we are still looking for the 7178 technical drawing. If anyone finds it, please let me know.

From what I recall BB has a 30 day return policy. Regardless.

Dont quote me, but I remember asking a few months ago.

That's what I meant. They take stuff back even if it's opened, up to 30 days. Thus, you can "rent" sets for free from Best Buy for up to 30 days.

that was my plan but there are no HDMI or DVI connections on the cable box, component is my only option.

"Also, you may want to try sending the native resolution to the TV, i.e., allow the Sammie to process the image to its native res; otherwise, try sending 720p vs. 1080i from the cable box to the TV."

Sorry but im kinda new to this so you lost me a little there. Is this a setting i need to change in the cable box set up?

I meant that if your cable box has the option to "pass through" the native signal of the broadcast, you should give that a try. Otherwise, the cable box should have outupt formats to select from that you should experiment with to see what looks best.

What Moto box do you have? I'm surprised that it doesn't have an HDMI or DVI connector. Look for a thread that deals with your particular model of Moto cable box for specifics. I myself have Scientific Atlanta boxes but I know my brother in law in MA has a Moto box from Comcast and when he finally took my advice and switched to DVI connection, he was floored at the difference...mileage may vary on the switch though since some prefer the component over the digital connection in certain instances.

i have the motorola DCT6412. I just checked their site and they do have a box with DVI input. I guess i'll see if my cable provider (adelphia) has this one...doubt it.

I appreciate the help, i'll play with the settings in my cable box to see if i can change the output formats.

Just hooked up my new HLR 5067w. So far i'm still tweaking but fairly impressed. I'm not seeing any rainbows or other issues people have been having.

XBOX works like a charm.

Pretty much blown away with the quality of DVD's.

My only concern....I'm still trying to decide if the HD signal is as good as i can get it. I've upgraded from my 36 inch sony but so far noticed the HD signal was much sharper and crisp on the sony. This is my only concern so far with this TV as i was expecting a better picture.

My hookup:
Cable runs into my Cable box

Motorola DVR/HD box connected via component to TV. Audio is connected via optical cable to Pioneer Reciever

Toshiba upscale DVD connected via DVI to TV. Audio is connected via optical cable to Pioneer Reciever

Xbox connected with red/white/yellow to TV.

Cable problem does not sound right. Call your cable company and make sure you have their latest equipment. Set output on STB to 16:9 TV and 720p.

Just found a guide to my cable box online and seems to be that i do need to change output settings on my cablebox like you guys said. Didn't know about that.

I hope this works b/c i love this tv!!!

THanks!

i have the motorola DCT6412.

The 6412 is a really nice piece of equipment. You should be getting great results. Your cable provider has probably activated the DVI (you can call them), but this STB will give you great results with component cables.

The 6412 is a really nice piece of equipment. You should be getting great results. Your cable provider has probably activated the DVI (you can call them), but this STB will give you great results with component cables.

Oh boy! I can't wait for the 1080P Sammys to finally make their appearance. I just bought a 26" LCD for my bedroom (Syntax Olevia from CompUSA). I plan to ditch DISH n/w and goto Comcast and get 2 HD-DVRs. I hope my viewing experience is about to become fantastic. :D

Oh boy! I can't wait for the 1080P Sammys to finally make their appearance. I just bought a 26" LCD for my bedroom (Syntax Olevia from CompUSA). I plan to ditch DISH n/w and goto Comcast and get 2 HD-DVRs. I hope my viewing experience is about to become fantastic. :D

Oh you'll be amazed! Mark my words!

Folks,

I am trying to figure out if HL-Rxx68W can work properly with HTPC (Media Center 2005) over VGA input. Regarding picture size, previous Samsung xx63 models had "Expand" option for accurate 1:1 pixel mapping without overscan or underscan issues. This apparently disappeared in xx67 series which had WideTV option that provided 1:1 pixel mapping with slight overscan (IIRC).

Now the xx68 series has only the following two options for picture size on the PC input (from the manual):

• “4:3”: Displays the picture as it is without changing the aspect
ratio of input source.
• “WidePC”: Scales the picture to 92% of the TV screen,
regardless of the aspect ratio of the input source.

WidePC is not an option for good picture quality. Do you think that "4:3" option is a successor to "Expand" or at least "WideTV" option from before? It would seem paradoxical that the option for 1:1 pixel mapping that covers the entire 16:9 widescreen area would be called "4:3". If it's not possible to project a PC image without scaling and without too much hassle with overscan, then this new generation of Samsung DLPs may not be a good choice for someone who cares about HTPC. Would it be possible to pose this question in Post 1?

Folks,

I am trying to figure out if HL-Rxx68W can work properly with HTPC (Media Center 2005) over VGA input. Regarding picture size, previous Samsung xx63 models had "Expand" option for accurate 1:1 pixel mapping without overscan or underscan issues. This apparently disappeared in xx67 series which had WideTV option that provided 1:1 pixel mapping with slight overscan (IIRC).

Now the xx68 series has only the following two options for picture size on the PC input (from the manual):

• “4:3”: Displays the picture as it is without changing the aspect
ratio of input source.
• “WidePC”: Scales the picture to 92% of the TV screen,
regardless of the aspect ratio of the input source.

WidePC is not an option for good picture quality. Do you think that "4:3" option is a successor to "Expand" or at least "WideTV" option from before? It would seem paradoxical that the option for 1:1 pixel mapping that covers the entire 16:9 widescreen area would be called "4:3". If it's not possible to project a PC image without scaling and without too much hassle with overscan, then this new generation of Samsung DLPs may not be a good choice for someone who cares about HTPC. Would it be possible to pose this question in Post 1?

Do you really think they'd write "1920x1080" in like every specification area on the site if it didn't work awesome? I fully intend for it to work over VGA, I don't have a 30' VGA cable for nothing. As for what mode to use I'm not sure as I've never owned a DLP - My advice, don't worry about it - it may work right out of the box, you never know!

- D

Folks,

I am trying to figure out if HL-Rxx68W can work properly with HTPC (Media Center 2005) over VGA input. Regarding picture size, previous Samsung xx63 models had "Expand" option for accurate 1:1 pixel mapping without overscan or underscan issues. This apparently disappeared in xx67 series which had WideTV option that provided 1:1 pixel mapping with slight overscan (IIRC).

Now the xx68 series has only the following two options for picture size on the PC input (from the manual):

• “4:3”: Displays the picture as it is without changing the aspect
ratio of input source.
• “WidePC”: Scales the picture to 92% of the TV screen,
regardless of the aspect ratio of the input source.

WidePC is not an option for good picture quality. Do you think that "4:3" option is a successor to "Expand" or at least "WideTV" option from before? It would seem paradoxical that the option for 1:1 pixel mapping that covers the entire 16:9 widescreen area would be called "4:3". If it's not possible to project a PC image without scaling and without too much hassle with overscan, then this new generation of Samsung DLPs may not be a good choice for someone who cares about HTPC. Would it be possible to pose this question in Post 1?

You got it ... see item #9 below:

Items We Would Like To Test, But Need To Wait Until HDTV's Are Released:

1. Do the remote control IR discrete codes work for ALL inputs?

2. Given the increased video processing demands of 1080p, what is the capability of the 68/78/88 series 1080p sets to handle computer/video gaming? Specifically, what is lag?

3. Given the increased video processing required in the 1080p units (68, 78, 88 Series), what steps has Samsung taken to insure that we don't see lip sync issues? Did anyone ask specifically about this concern?

4. Will 1080p be supported on the HDMI input on the 1080p models (68, 78, 88 series)? All of our information collected up to this point indicates that it won't, but it is an important item and many of us hope Samsung will find a way to include it in the final production sets. It should be checked when the sets are released.

5. How will SD broadcasts look on the 1080p sets? How will this compare to SD broadcasts on 720p sets?

6. How will standard DVD's look on the 1080p sets? How will standard DVD's look after being upshifted by the better upshifting DVD players in comparison to standard DVD on the 720p sets? Is there any advantage to the new 1080p sets when playing standard DVD's?

7. In selecting a DVD player, will you get a better quality picture if you send the 1080p HDTV a 480i digital feed and let the TV do all of the processing OR by using a upshifting DVD player to send a 1080i digital signal that is deinterlaced to 1080p?

8. When setting up a given input, such as HDMI or Component 1, does the processing associated with the input change when you select a different descriptive name for the input (such as GAME, DVD, HD STB, etc.)?

9. Can you get 1:1 pixel mapping of a computer input on the PC/VGA input (at 1920x1080)? On HDMI? If so, how exactly is it setup and what picture mode do you use?

If you live in a larger urban area, call around and see if anyone is displaying the Qualia 006 in your area (here on the west coast, many of us have gone down to Magnolia HiFi). If so, go down and look at it. It is a 1080p set and you can quickly form you own opinion about 720p / 1080p. Hint: no preparation neccessary, you will be able to quickly see the difference.

Can someone on the west coast run down to Magnolia HiFi and run some test to answer some of the "Items We Would Like To Test, But Need To Wait Until HDTV's Are Released" for us poor east coaster.
I think the delay on audio would be the most important factor for me. I like my 7.1 a/v tooooo much to give it up. :rolleyes:

Can someone on the west coast run down to Magnolia HiFi and run some test to answer some of the "Items We Would Like To Test, But Need To Wait Until HDTV's Are Released" for us poor east coaster.
I think the delay on audio would be the most important factor for me. I like my 7.1 a/v tooooo much to give it up. :rolleyes:

Errr... I don't see much point in running the tests you are requesting on the Qualia given that we are all waiting for the Samsung xx68 series to show up. What am I (or you) missing? :)

Yea i read it wrong, I thought they were talking about a samsung

I'll pass along the latest from TVA regarding the Powerbuy:

Just a quick update to let you know we are checking in daily with Samsung. The latest word is the HL-R5668W/HL-R6168W models have been shipped from the factory and are on their way to us. We are still awaiting details on the exact number of pieces sent and will update you with any new information we receive.

Best Regards,

TV Authority SalesAbout 2 hours ago I spoke to the manager at Magnolia San Ramon. I asked him if he has a new expected date for the 6168. He chuckled as he said, "no". I asked why the chuckle. He said a Samsung employee, a manager (said the title, but don't remember) was just in the store this very week, and directly said nobody will be getting the 1080p's until the end of July, and that they will all come out in a very short timeframe, and they should all be out by mid-Aug. I told him I read on this forum that TVA stated the 6168 had already shipped. With a bit of impatient anger, he said, "That is a bunch of cr*p" :eek: , and then went on to take an unnecessary shot at AVS forum, and reiterated the **true** arrival date. Well, I allowed myself to hope these would be available to my installer's distributor in the coming single-digit days (1-2 days ago), and now... who knows. I continue to fail to understand why we hear of so many different expected arrival dates, especially when we seem to be so close. Just gotta exercise patience...

About 2 hours ago I spoke to the manager at Magnolia San Ramon. I asked him if he has a new expected date for the 6168. He chuckled as he said, "no". I asked why the chuckle. He said a Samsung employee, a manager (said the title, but don't remember) was just in the store this very week, and directly said nobody will be getting the 1080p's until the end of July, and that they will all come out in a very short timeframe, and they should all be out by mid-Aug. I told him I read on this forum that TVA stated the 6168 had already shipped. With a bit of impatient anger, he said, "That is a bunch of cr*p" :eek: , and then went on to take an unnecessary shot at AVS forum, and reiterated the **true** arrival date. Well, I allowed myself to hope these would be available to my installer's distributor in the coming single-digit days (1-2 days ago), and now... who knows. I continue to fail to understand why we hear of so many different expected arrival dates, especially when we seem to be so close. Just gotta exercise patience...

If TVA says they have left the factory, they have left. I think TVA has enough experience in the business and has dealt with enough delays (even from Samsung) to keep quiet until they actually know they are on their way. Furthermore, TVA also knows they are dealing with a very picky bunch of customers that want their sets right now. I believe that TVA will have some of the 78 series on Monday or Tuesday, and some of the 68 series on Wednesday/Thursday of next week. Kirk Punches over at TVA specifically confirmed for me (as did some other posters, Gazelle for example) that these sets were shipping from Tijuana Mexico. That's less than a 10 hour drive from TVA's distribution warehouse in Sacramento, and they received word yesterday (Thursday) that they had already left, and that was around 10AM on the West Coast. Thus, these sets, even with customs, stops at other warehouses, etc., should be to TVA's warehouse at the latest on Wednesday or Thursday of next week, and I would guess sooner. TVA seems to have done a great job of keeping in touch directly from the manufacturer, and that is the sort of quality we have come to enjoy and expect from them. I continue to applaud their ability to keep in touch with customers regarding the delivery of these sets. By the way, I also got an e-mail invoice yesterday (I pre-ordered the day the powerbuy began), don't know about you guys.

If TVA says they have left the factory, they have left. I think TVA has enough experience in the business and has dealt with enough delays (even from Samsung) to keep quiet until they actually know they are on their way. Furthermore, TVA also knows they are dealing with a very picky bunch of customers that want their sets right now. I believe that TVA will have some of the 78 series on Monday or Tuesday, and some of the 68 series on Wednesday/Thursday of next week.Clorox, I hope your belief comes to pass. Obviously because I want a 6168, but also, after hearing the arrogance of the manager of Magnolia I spoke with today, I look forward to telling him he was wrong. :rolleyes: :D

If TVA says they have left the factory, they have left. I think TVA has enough experience in the business and has dealt with enough delays (even from Samsung) to keep quiet until they actually know they are on their way. Furthermore, TVA also knows they are dealing with a very picky bunch of customers that want their sets right now. I believe that TVA will have some of the 78 series on Monday or Tuesday, and some of the 68 series on Wednesday/Thursday of next week. Kirk Punches over at TVA specifically confirmed for me (as did some other posters, Gazelle for example) that these sets were shipping from Tijuana Mexico. That's less than a 10 hour drive from TVA's distribution warehouse in Sacramento, and they received word yesterday (Thursday) that they had already left, and that was around 10AM on the West Coast. Thus, these sets, even with customs, stops at other warehouses, etc., should be to TVA's warehouse at the latest on Wednesday or Thursday of next week, and I would guess sooner. TVA seems to have done a great job of keeping in touch directly from the manufacturer, and that is the sort of quality we have come to enjoy and expect from them. I continue to applaud their ability to keep in touch with customers regarding the delivery of these sets. By the way, I also got an e-mail invoice yesterday (I pre-ordered the day the powerbuy began), don't know about you guys.
If the did leave TJ yesterday they will be in Sacto by Sat. Unless they stop for a vacation along the way at Trajic Mountain or Harris Ranch.

The only things I get in my email are houndings from BizRate to rate TVA. My order was not placed tell June 6 so I may be down the list for my 5668.

The real kicker will be when I see the DVD player or the free gift at my door that I ordered at the same time. Then I will know we are close.

I got my cooling fans today and just ordered a 23 foot hdmi cable from BJC. I was suprised to see that they did not carry digital optical cables. Anyway does anybody know a good source for at least a 15' toslink?

20 feet would be even better.

My only concern....I'm still trying to decide if the HD signal is as good as i can get it. I've upgraded from my 36 inch sony but so far noticed the HD signal was much sharper and crisp on the sony. This is my only concern so far with this TV as i was expecting a better picture.

My hookup:
Cable runs into my Cable box

Motorola DVR/HD box connected via component to TV. Audio is connected via optical cable to Pioneer Reciever

Toshiba upscale DVD connected via DVI to TV. Audio is connected via optical cable to Pioneer Reciever

Xbox connected with red/white/yellow to TV.

Besides the other suggestions, you can also temporarily simplify your connections by sending the cable coax line straight into the TV. That will eliminate any concern of cable box settings and component cable quality. The internal tuner will decode unscrambled digital HD channels (like PBS-HD) and they'll be virtually as good as it's going to get. Set that as your baseline and restore the cable box in the loop. It should look just as good. You may need to adjust your picture settings for the component input to suit your preferences or make other changes.

Also, it looks like you have the Xbox connected with a composite video cable. You'll get a slightly better picture if you upgrade to component video cables.

Jon

Hi, everyone! I've pre-ordered a 6168 from the powerbuy. Just wondering where I can find a quality vga cable to connect my htpc to my new DLP. Also, do you think that Samsung will come out with a driver for the DLP so it will be easier to adjust screen size? This is my first DLP and I just can't wait!!! :D

thank you westa6969 and htwaits and all the other people for helping me! By the way, i forget who said it, but someone said that PCRichards did not have any 1080p tv's listed, only 720p's. If you go to the PCRichards website and type in Xx68, it will come up.

And when i use the link and click "Preorder" next to a t.v., it takes me to another screen where it says that it has been added to my cart. But when i go to my cart, its empty!!!! How can i make it work?

Thanks!

And when i use the link and click "Preorder" next to a t.v., it takes me to another screen where it says that it has been added to my cart. But when i go to my cart, its empty!!!! How can i make it work?
You're welcome.

There is one problem that I ran into that might be the reason you aren't finding anything in your cart.

When you click on this link in the power buy thread:

http://www.tvauthority.com/avs-members-only.asp

you wind up on the TVA screen where they ask you to confirm that you are an AVS member. It's very easy to miss checking the little box in front of the last sentence on that page. The sentence is:

I Agree to these statements and would like to continue on to the AVS member section.

If you fail to check that box and just click on "continue" the shopping cart doesn't work.

Try it again and be sure to check that box. If that doesn't work just use the TVA toll free number and tell them you are an AVS member.

Good luck.

MillerW:
Have you decided between either the Mits or Samsung 70-73" ?
I think I am now leaning towards the JVC 1080p 70" . I have purchased a JVC/Faroudja DiLA projector for a client, and it is absolutely beautiful, they tell me th basic guts are the same.

For Everyone in Search of Cables

http://www.bluejeanscable.com/
http://www.avcables.com/

I plan to use AVCables simply because they have Low Loss VGA cables (big thick well shielded bastards) and have the long lengths I need. Woot!

I really should order from them as soon as I have a TV price from my installer

- D

MillerW:
Have you decided between either the Mits or Samsung 70-73" ?
I think I am now leaning towards the JVC 1080p 70" . I have purchased a JVC/Faroudja DiLA projector for a client, and it is absolutely beautiful, they tell me th basic guts are the same.

No, not yet. I waver back and forth, depending on which threads I've read most recently. I am really looking forward to seeing the Sammy 7178 right next to a Mits 73727! I have been concerned about some of the 'problems' the current Mits 62725 has had (rather dim, loud fan noise, 'bright spot'), but I expect them to be corrected in the 73727 (e.g., it has a 150 wt lamp, and Mits engineers have presumably solved the 'bright spot' and fan noise). The only recurring problem I'm aware of for the Sammy is audio delay, but I've not experienced any in my present setup with a hlp6163, so I don't expect any with the new 1080p's (at least for what I do). From the pictures I've seen, I like the look of the Sammy better, but people that have seen the Mits report liking it (at least much better than the current 62725). I've got a feeling that the PQ two sets is going to be very comparable (since they have the same TI chip) but that is of course what I'm waiting to see. And of course, I would like the extra 2" of the Mits; if you're going to get a big screen, you might as well get a BIG one. (Am sitting about 10 ft away, and the 6163 is beginning to llook small!)

The JVC DILA has certainly gotten good previews, but I'm commited to either the Mits or Sammy because of an arrangement I made with Mag HiFi ( they carry Mits and Sammy, but not JVC).

Does anyone know if either of the new DVD formats will be backward compatible with current DVDs? I hate to think of my entire collection needing its own DVD player.

Also does the screwdriver come in a left handed model?

Millerwill: Stick Will The Sammy. I Don't Know How Good The Mits Is But I Was At The 2005 He Show In Ny. The Sammy Blow Away The Sony Quilia. I Spent Over An Hour Comparing The Two Sets At The Show. Texas Inst. Was Helping Me Compare The Set's. The Only Area Where The Quilia Did A Letter Better Was The Brightness Issue. How Much Better Can The Jvc Be..

Does anyone know if either of the new DVD formats will be backward compatible with current DVDs? I hate to think of my entire collection needing its own DVD player.
One way or another they are both backward compatible.

Millerwill: Stick Will The Sammy. I Don't Know How Good The Mits Is But I Was At The 2005 He Show In Ny. The Sammy Blow Away The Sony Quilia. I Spent Over An Hour Comparing The Two Sets At The Show. Texas Inst. Was Helping Me Compare The Set's. The Only Area Where The Quilia Did A Letter Better Was The Brightness Issue. How Much Better Can The Jvc Be..

Thanks for the info. I have indeed been leaning toward the Sammy--my present hlp6163 has been superb (my wife wonders why in the world I want to replace it!). But the extra 2 inches in the 73727 (compared to the 7178) does sound nice, as well as the 150 watt bulb. I am aware that Sammy's service is miles beyond that of Mits, but I am assuming that any problems I might have would be dealt with by MagHiFi, and those guys are a class act.

Re the Qualia, I did see one at MagHiFi in SanRamon and was shocked at the glary screen--one could see every light in the store refected in it. It is every bit as glary as on the present Mits xx525's, and these have been pilloried mercilessly for their glare. I suprised that no one seems bothered by it with the Qualia.

Anyway, I think I have to see the Mits 73727 and Sammy 7178 side-by-side before I'm finally ready to pluck down (more!) cash.

So when are we supposed to be seeing either of the Mits or Sammy 1080p's in real life? I kept hearing June all the way into July, and now I've heard both July and September.

Engadget said that the Mits displays were shipping in California. True?

So when are we supposed to be seeing either of the Mits or Sammy 1080p's in real life? I kept hearing June all the way into July, and now I've heard both July and September.

Engadget said that the Mits displays were shipping in California. True?

I can’t speak for the Mits, but according to TVA, who is doing the powerbuy on the Samsung xx68 sets; they have a truck on the way from Samsung’s Mexico plant to their Sacramento warehouse. Hopefully the units will go out for delivery sometime next week.

As of 7/7, Samsung has set the end of this month as the deadline for rolling out the 1080p-capable DLPs to retailers nationwide. Reports are surfacing daily that the TVs have been spotted in retail store inventories. The new 1080p models will be shipping to more than 10 domestic retailers by the end of the month, according to Samsung sources. Samsung officials stated that their release of the product in the coming weeks will be distributed widely throughout the United States.

You're welcome.

There is one problem that I ran into that might be the reason you aren't finding anything in your cart.

When you click on this link in the power buy thread:

http://www.tvauthority.com/avs-members-only.asp

you wind up on the TVA screen where they ask you to confirm that you are an AVS member. It's very easy to miss checking the little box in front of the last sentence on that page. The sentence is:

I Agree to these statements and would like to continue on to the AVS member section.

If you fail to check that box and just click on "continue" the shopping cart doesn't work.

Try it again and be sure to check that box. If that doesn't work just use the TVA toll free number and tell them you are an AVS member.

Good luck.


Dangit! It still doesn't work. Oh well, i'll havta call them. thanks

Dangit! It still doesn't work. Oh well, i'll havta call them. thanks
I just selected "preorder" for the HLR5668 and was taken directly to a shopping cart page with one item -- the HLR5668 and it's powerbuy price. It seems like a good price to me. :)

This was inspired from Bill's post of his setup and my thoughts toward a new home for a Sammy 56xx (a 5668 will be home here in a week or two). It took me 6 month's to complete. The final two pieces of glass (not shown) are installed and unless Dennis takes it out, will house the new Sammy. :rolleyes:

For Everyone in Search of Cables

http://www.bluejeanscable.com/
http://www.avcables.com/

I plan to use AVCables simply because they have Low Loss VGA cables (big thick well shielded bastards) and have the long lengths I need. Woot!

I really should order from them as soon as I have a TV price from my installer

- D

Wow I just notice that AVcable's DVI cable is so cheap! It's much cheaper than Bettercable's DVI cables. I'm just wondering are there any differences between the DVI cables from those 3 stores? If it's not significant or anything that I will notice, I think I rather buy the cable from avcable instead of bettercable.

Any wagers on whether the Sammy HLRxx67 720p's will drop in price now that the 1080's have arrived? I'm currently looking at the Samsung HLR5667w, but I'd hate to pull the trigger now if a price drop is just around the corner! (Unfortunately, the 1080's are out of range $-wise)

Wow I just notice that AVcable's DVI cable is so cheap! It's much cheaper than Bettercable's DVI cables. I'm just wondering are there any differences between the DVI cables from those 3 stores? If it's not significant or anything that I will notice, I think I rather buy the cable from avcable instead of bettercable.

I am not sure. I am using the relatively more expensive bettercables vga
cable and have a hard distinguishing it from HDMI...

... a 5668 will be home here in a week or two ...
...and a beautiful home it will have! Some time during my 20+ years of formal schooling, I should have learned to use a table saw. :( (Where's the smilie for "Envy.")

This was inspired from Bill's post of his setup and my thoughts toward a new home for a Sammy 56xx (a 5668 will be home here in a week or two). It took me 6 month's to complete. The final two pieces of glass (not shown) are installed and unless Dennis takes it out, will house the new Sammy. :rolleyes:

Really nice!!!

As of 7/7, Samsung has set the end of this month as the deadline for rolling out the 1080p-capable DLPs to retailers nationwide. Reports are surfacing daily that the TVs have been spotted in retail store inventories. The new 1080p models will be shipping to more than 10 domestic retailers by the end of the month, according to Samsung sources. Samsung officials stated that their release of the product in the coming weeks will be distributed widely throughout the United States.
I just ordered my 5678W on 7/4 from Tweeter here in Raleigh, NC. They are claiming they expect to receive at warehouse on 7/22 - and I should have in my hot little hands 2-3 days after. Fingers crossed :D

Wow I just notice that AVcable's DVI cable is so cheap! It's much cheaper than Bettercable's DVI cables. I'm just wondering are there any differences between the DVI cables from those 3 stores? If it's not significant or anything that I will notice, I think I rather buy the cable from avcable instead of bettercable.

Daphoid, what is your take on Monster cables? I just saw an HDMI-HDMI for $85, more than 3 times the cost of AVCable. Are Monsters really worth it, or just well marketed?

Daphoid, what is your take on Monster cables? I just saw an HDMI-HDMI for $85, more than 3 times the cost of AVCable. Are Monsters really worth it, or just well marketed?

Just well marketed. Kinda like Bose!

;)

I want to thank Daphoid & UCSB for the info on the info pf the different connections(HDMI,VGA,ect)made ot crystal clear on the explanations.You realize I"ll be beating on your doors for more expert advice in the near future.This sight is the the best site i have ever encountered.I had to find and take a trip to MagHIFI from all the talk i seen.Nice place.Asked rm about the 1080's and said all the info was in their system.So it wont be to much longer.LETS HOPE hehehehe

Hey Rob i see we are nieghbors lol

Dangit! It still doesn't work. Oh well, i'll havta call them. thanks

I had the same problem, but you're probably clicking on "View Cart" right after you click the preorder button. I got it to work by scrolling down and clicking "Decline and Continue" on the "Product Protection Plus Warranty Options" box. You should then be taken to the price page.

Hope this helps.

GraveX and others: I have asked this question before, so I'll ask it again as we approach product roll-out.

What are you folks doing about the extended warranty. Who is getting it, who is not? Why?

I am very near placing an order and I really don't have a "warm fuzzy feeling," one way or another, about the extended warranty.

Daphoid, what is your take on Monster cables? I just saw an HDMI-HDMI for $85, more than 3 times the cost of AVCable. Are Monsters really worth it, or just well marketed?I live about 3 miles from AV cable...Professional installers from the area swear by their products...very high quality cables at great prices.

Going through hours and hours of reading this forum...It amazes me how many members of AVS trash Samsung as a company and TI's newest DLP 1080P products...it makes me wonder am I missing something???

How about how many people praise them. There are more people that praise them than trash them.

Millerwill: Stick Will The Sammy. I Don't Know How Good The Mits Is But I Was At The 2005 He Show In Ny. The Sammy Blow Away The Sony Quilia. I Spent Over An Hour Comparing The Two Sets At The Show. Texas Inst. Was Helping Me Compare The Set's. The Only Area Where The Quilia Did A Letter Better Was The Brightness Issue. How Much Better Can The Jvc Be..

now that is pure trash talk!

as is always the best advice anyone can ever give you on this forum, or any other forum, is to see/hear the equipment for yourself. i too was at the HE2005 show, seeing the Samsung 1080p sets for the first time, and being an owner of the Qualia (which doesn't bias me as I am also in the market for a Samsung 1080p DLP for a different application) can say that this statement is way off. The Samsung 1080p looked great, as I had expected, but it certainly didn't blow away the Qualia.

But, I'm not trying to start a pissing contest as I find them quite annoying and useless, I only want to point out that for some that might not otherwise take such statements for what they are, audition whatever set you are thinking of buying yourself and make sure you are happy with the price/performance, that is all that ever matters. You can never win an argument that mine is better than yours, etc.

Going through hours and hours of reading this forum...It amazes me how many members of AVS trash Samsung as a company and TI's newest DLP 1080P products...it makes me wonder am I missing something???
Are you missing something? Yes, bitterness, youthful expectation of utter perfection from everything, idealism, an empty life.

Not that many posters bash Samsung, and while a few bash wobulation on principle, most of us are taking a "wait and see" approach. The seeing part is important.

You'll have to give up your pragmatism if you really wish to be noticed here! :D

Hey Rob i see we are nieghbors lol

Yep. Suppose to be 100 degrees by Wednesday! :eek:

Bendover: You Are Corect The Best Advise Anyone Can Give Is To To See/hear The Equipment For Yourself And That's Exactly What I Did For Myseft. The Quilia Is A Good Set Mind You But At $13,000 Vs. $4800 That Might Be A Blow Out In Price Value At Lease.

When you come from a place like Pennsylvania and its 85 degrees and humidity is 85,100 degrees is like air conditioning lol.And your HT looks fabulous.What type of screen we wathing

stiill new Rob lol.Guess i need to press quote

I had the same problem, but you're probably clicking on "View Cart" right after you click the preorder button. I got it to work by scrolling down and clicking "Decline and Continue" on the "Product Protection Plus Warranty Options" box. You should then be taken to the price page.

Hope this helps.


YOU ARE MY HERO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU!!!! it worked!!!!!!! YESSSss

If i ordered one in the next day or two, when do you guys think i will recieve it by?

If i ordered one in the next day or two, when do you guys think i will recieve it by?
You need to get that information from TVA. Use their toll free number. Your order is never final until you ok delivery when they actually have your set ready to ship.

For Everyone in Search of Cables

http://www.bluejeanscable.com/
http://www.avcables.com/

I plan to use AVCables simply because they have Low Loss VGA cables (big thick well shielded bastards) and have the long lengths I need. Woot!

I really should order from them as soon as I have a TV price from my installer

- D
I got a good price on Triple Shielded Plenum VGA Cable from bestbuycable cat.# CC388P-10


bestbuycable (http://www.bestbuycable.com)

I got 10' HDMI with the same spec as monster TMDS (Transition Minimized Differential Signalling) specifications for 1/3 the cost from ebay B-and-A-Computer-Cables
search on "New 3 Meter 10 Ft GOLD HDMI to HDMI"

Is there actually a difference in the picture? I tried the cheap HDMI cable that came with the HDTiVo. The picture produced is the exact same as when I tried a cable like the one you got on ebay. I might as well use the free cables if there is no difference in picture quality.

The big thing for me is the shielding. I have all my cable running 10' from my tv and I want to keep out any interference if possible.

I am still a little bit concerned with the verticle visibility of the Samsung DLP's. My room setup is such that the TV would be in my entertainment center and the shelf for it is 34" high. I am able to fit the 50" Sammy in it, just perfectly. So the middle of the screen would be at ~51". I will be sitting 11' - 13' away from the screen in my sofa. My line of sight is maybe at 34-36" (sitting down). Is that going to be a problem? I looked at the HL-R5067W at Magnolia Hifi and they had it on an 18" stand. With my face pretty much on the floor (to simulate my home environment) I was happy with the PQ. But, today I went to BB and looked at the same TV and the PQ was crappy. It got dark very quickly when I lowered my line of sight. :confused:

The light situation seems to be very different at MagHifi, vs. BB. BB was way bright with all the store lights, etc. MagHIfi was somewhat dimmed. Anyway, what advise to you guys have?

I am still a little bit concerned with the verticle visibility of the Samsung DLP's. My room setup is such that the TV would be in my entertainment center and the shelf for it is 34" high. I am able to fit the 50" Sammy in it, just perfectly. So the middle of the screen would be at ~51". I will be sitting 11' - 13' away from the screen in my sofa. My line of sight is maybe at 34-36" (sitting down). Is that going to be a problem? I looked at the HL-R5067W at Magnolia Hifi and they had it on an 18" stand. With my face pretty much on the floor (to simulate my home environment) I was happy with the PQ. But, today I went to BB and looked at the same TV and the PQ was crappy. It got dark very quickly when I lowered my line of sight. :confused:

The light situation seems to be very different at MagHifi, vs. BB. BB was way bright with all the store lights, etc. MagHIfi was somewhat dimmed. Anyway, what advise to you guys have?

You will be fine. I have a 33" cabinet and a Samsung DLP on it now. My seating is from 9.5' to 12.5' and it works great. For more information look at FAQ #12 in POST #1.

GraveX and others: I have asked this question before, so I'll ask it again as we approach product roll-out.

What are you folks doing about the extended warranty. Who is getting it, who is not? Why?

I am very near placing an order and I really don't have a "warm fuzzy feeling," one way or another, about the extended warranty.


I have purchased many thousands of dollars worth of electronic equipment in my lifetime and have very rarely had anything break or go out on me. Yes, it does happen, but as far as the Samsung 1080p models go, if I drop that much dough on a television, it will be guarded like a shrine from factors which could cause it harm in my household. I don't think the color wheel or other moving parts would go out any time soon, but I do have an urge to purchase three replacement bulbs for the set in case the stock one dies one day.

Overkill? Sure. But it's better (and cheaper) than worrying about plasma fading in a plasma television, or burn in on an LCD television, etc.

A local tv repairman tried to advise my mother to purchase a tube-based HDTV because they'll be easier to fix in the future. He's got a point. But there is always a certain amount of risk when adopting a new technology. The new Samsungs, in my opinion, are a safer, smarter bet than a lot of the technologies on the shelf today. And I hear they look damn good.

So no to the extended warranty for me.

-- GraveX

For $500 it's worth it to me to get the 5 year extended warranty. Plus it will increase the resale value of the set. I'm sure I won't keep it longer than 4 years, I might even upgrade in two years depending on the progress that has been made. My 4 year old HD RP CRT set is basically worthless after 4 years, and it is very bulky. I hope to get more resale out of the the Samsung 1080P set since the warranty is transferable. With my old CRT set, I 'm just charging a coworker $200 just so he can take the set and worry about transporting it. I don't want anything to do with moving a 250lb set. I won't have this problem with a 95lb dlp set.

My calculation is that one service call with one part replaced is going to pay for an extended warranty if it happens after the manufacturer's warranty expires. I bought the set and the insurance from Magnolia. Their extended 4yr warranty includes the bulb. :)

I have noticed that some of the dimensions are different tha what Samsung has in their online flyer. USCB may want to update size without stand, you save a couple inches on depth. I am not going to buy pedistal.

http://product.samsung.com/SamsungUSA/PRODUCT/20050706/DLP_68_series_1.pdf

I have noticed that some of the dimensions are different tha what Samsung has in their online flyer. USCB may want to update size without stand, you save a couple inches on depth. I am not going to buy pedistal.

http://product.samsung.com/SamsungUSA/PRODUCT/20050706/DLP_68_series_1.pdf

Thanks for the link! I've added a link to the brochure and a separate measurements section without the pedestal base in the 68 series area in POST #1. I'm going to try and update the 78 series area also.

I've also added a new 78 series brochure link and a measurements section without the pedestal base to the 78 series area in POST #1.

Will the bulb need replacement before the 8000 hours that the manual talks about?
If you average 4 hours of TV everyday, that is atleast 5 years that the bulb will last. I am just trying to figure out if a 5yr bulb replacement warranty is worth to go for.