QUALIA 006 Owner's Thread [Text View] - Page 47

Zechman

05-22-06, 04:25 PM

Does anyone know if there are speaker wires or cables for the 006. I have detached mine and just use my sound system however I would like to use the speakers for late at night when my wife goes to sleep. Normally I use headsets but after awhile they get uncomfortable. I would like to put the speakers close to me and have the audio turned down.
Is there such and animal?
As you've no doubt seen, the speakers use a proprietary connector, and there's no cables or anything from Sony to use the speakers anywhere other than attached to the set.

My sound system will let me just run 2 rear speakers but I have to reconfigure everything to do it.
Without knowing more about your sound system, I can't really make any suggestion.

BTW I found out that my 006 qualia will not give me dolby audio thru the speaker system on the set. I am using HDMI out of my Directv HD tivo and get audio fine but when I go to Discovery ch. or HDnet or any channel that broadcasts in Dolby the Qualia can not decode it. If I change my Directv HD to just play 'standard audio' I can hear sound from the HD channels.

However my sound system has no such problem and on that I use optical out the the DirectvHD tivo into my sound system.
You're right that the 006 doesn't do any processing of Dolby Digital that comes in via HDMI. Having only two speakers, there's really nothing it could do. Also, the optical audio out on the back of the set does not echo sound that comes in via HDMI. (Personally, I wish it did.) So what you're already doing is the right thing to do--use optical out from the HDTiVo directly to your sound system and HDMI to the 006 for video.

If you have a programmable remote, there is a remote code that will toggle the attached speakers on and off, which may help if you want to use the sound system some times and not others.

--Dwayne

dreaux

05-23-06, 09:58 AM

I bought the Qualia 006 at Myer-Emco and it was a floor demo, got a pretty good price however it has been on for about 8 months....ouch! I would like to check the hours on the bulb so I used this formula I saw on this thread---

[I]'Official Sony Protocol for accessing the Number of Lamp Timer Hours

The Qualia 006 is in the OFF mode
Using the Qualia remote control
Press Display once
Press the Number 5 once
Press Volume Up once
Press Power
Press Jump Three times
(Be careful here because this can get you into the service menu and in trouble)

The Qualia will power up and display DIM SER in the center of the screen
Then press the Number 2 twelve times
Lamp Timer should appear below DIM SER with the
number of hours following it to the right
Turn the Qualia off to exit'

But when I do this I see no DIM SER on the screen. Am I doing something wrong??
( I did talk to a Sony Tech and he said I could call and they would fedex a bulb to me free of charge....It always pays to buy quality!)
But I would still like to access the info, so I could have a bulb in reserve.

Jim

jb007

05-23-06, 10:49 AM

What do you see?

Make certain the batteries in your remote are fresh. After pressing jump 3x, wait until you see the image and service menu, before pressing 2 12x.

Good luck.

gFrank

05-23-06, 04:29 PM

Does anyone know if there are speaker wires or cables for the 006. I have detached mine and just use my sound system however I would like to use the speakers for late at night when my wife goes to sleep. Normally I use headsets but after awhile they get uncomfortable. I would like to put the speakers close to me and have the audio turned down.
Is there such and animal?

My sound system will let me just run 2 rear speakers but I have to reconfigure everything to do it.

BTW I found out that my 006 qualia will not give me dolby audio thru the speaker system on the set. I am using HDMI out of my Directv HD tivo and get audio fine but when I go to Discovery ch. or HDnet or any channel that broadcasts in Dolby the Qualia can not decode it. If I change my Directv HD to just play 'standard audio' I can hear sound from the HD channels.

However my sound system has no such problem and on that I use optical out the the DirectvHD tivo into my sound system.
You are experiencing the same issue I had and there is no way around this problem. You have to decide whether you are going to listen through you home theatre and then you definitely set the TIVO for dolby digital. But I don't want my home theatre on all the time so I send out standard audio so I don't lose audio on HD channels. The bummer is that if it is set to standard then the TIVO records in nondolby digital and then if I decide to play it back on the home theatre I have standard audio, I think. I have decided to live with this problem and not complain. A High def Tivo and the Qualio 006 is a match made in heaven. id

gFrank

05-23-06, 04:31 PM

Yes same sympton and it was the bulb. I tried turning the set on and off and such and eventually got the green blink to stop and then the red led started to blink indicating the bulb was blown. Call Qualia they will ship you a new one for free. Shoud have it in 2 days.

gFrank

05-23-06, 04:38 PM

I am on a businesss trip and my son called me and told me that the green power light just continued to blink there was sound and no picture. THe dead bulb light did not come on at first . After several more attempts to turn on the TV the dead bulb light came on. This happened to me before several months ago ( the dead bulb light did not come on) after several cycles the bulb worked and I had a picture. The TV is 13 months old.

As anybody else experienced this issue for a dead bulb this way?

How hard is it to change the bulb I already ordered my free one? Thanks in advance

Arnie
I just changed the bulb. It was a snap. You are free to call me if you need any handholding. 310-500-3509. Ask for Frank.

Arnies

05-23-06, 05:26 PM

Thanks Frank. I get home from my trip this Friday . I have the manual I will call if I have a problems . I really appreciate your help

Arnie

dreaux

05-23-06, 06:20 PM

You are experiencing the same issue I had and there is no way around this problem. You have to decide whether you are going to listen through you home theatre and then you definitely set the TIVO for dolby digital. But I don't want my home theatre on all the time so I send out standard audio so I don't lose audio on HD channels. The bummer is that if it is set to standard then the TIVO records in nondolby digital and then if I decide to play it back on the home theatre I have standard audio, I think. I have decided to live with this problem and not complain. A High def Tivo and the Qualio 006 is a match made in heaven. id

Yeah I agree, the 2 look great together. I normally just use the sound system but late at night I have to tone it down some.... :confused: I think I will just run 2 speakers thru my 'B' channel on the sound system and see if that is a solution.

dreaux

05-24-06, 08:38 AM

What do you see?

Make certain the batteries in your remote are fresh. After pressing jump 3x, wait until you see the image and service menu, before pressing 2 12x.

Good luck.

I see nothing. I have done this a number of times thinking I may have not followed the directions right. But after going thru the sequence I still do not see a service menu. Just a normal screen.

gFrank

05-24-06, 02:13 PM

Official Sony Protocol for accessing the Number of Lamp Timer Hours

The Qualia 006 is in the OFF mode
Using the Qualia remote control
Press Display once
Press the Number 5 once
Press Volume Up once
Press Power
Press Jump Three times
(Be careful here because this can get you into the service menu and in trouble)

The Qualia will power up and display DIM SER in the center of the screen
Then press the Number 2 twelve times
Lamp Timer should appear below DIM SER with the
number of hours following it to the right
Turn the Qualia off to exit

Official Sony Protocol for resetting the Lamp Timer

Continue From the above
Press the Number 1
The menu display should now be at Lamp Timer Reset
Push the Number 3
Press Mute
Press Enter
The menu should display Write - EX in red at the top
Turn the Qualia off to exit
If at any time you feel you are in trouble or where you should not be
Turn the Qualia OFF
If you need assistance call the Qualia 800 number in the manual.
The Sony Qualia people are happy to assist or walk you through the procedure.
Report Post

Please be real careful because you can screw up your TV. Follow the instructions above that are the same as dreux. I had the same problem but got it to eventually work. Try unplugging the TV instead of just turning it off. Then plug it back in. Make sure your remote batteries are fresh. Stand up when you use the remote and aim it straight at the TV. When you do the power command wait until the TV lamp comes up. You should see the service code green lettering on the screen, if not start over. IF you do see the lettering continue

After you hit jump 3 times. wait.

now instead of just blindly hitting the number 2 twelve times, hit "2" one at a time and see the information change. When you get close to ten or so slow down and watch the display. Stop hitting the 2 when you see the word lamp appear. Copy down the info for your records.

I couldn't get the bulb timer to reset to zero even though I followed the instructions. I got it to display "write" in red letters but the number didn't budge. Has anyone out there successfully reset the lamp timer.

gFrank

05-24-06, 02:16 PM

If you need help during the weekend my home phone is 310-3988078. Be aware that I am on CA time so don't call too early.

brt3

05-24-06, 04:53 PM

Wow -- just got a note from Algolith saying they'll begin shipping Dragonfly preorders next week. Talk about vaporware; what's that, a year (or more) late? I placed my preorder on March 15, 2005...

dreaux

05-24-06, 08:00 PM

BenDover

05-24-06, 11:54 PM

Wow -- just got a note from Algolith saying they'll begin shipping Dragonfly preorders next week. Talk about vaporware; what's that, a year (or more) late? I placed my preorder on March 15, 2005...

i was wondering what ever happened to that product...lol, i guess you just answered my question...

jb007

05-25-06, 02:06 AM

Is it just summer approaching or is this thread winding down ? :eek:

brt3

05-25-06, 02:09 AM

Where's Penton-Man when you need him???

sophie

05-25-06, 07:21 AM

You guys have kept me entertained for a year and provided great 006 and other OT pearls. I will do my part to keep the thread going if others keep chiming in.

For starters: The Indy 500 in SD yet again, but the Tour De Gorge, and other more obscure HDNet notables in HD? Is Tony George the reason for this track feed?

Also, in two weeks Infocomm is in Orlando. If anyone is interested I'll attend and hunt down factory reps and engineers for info. This show is not as glamorous as the one out west, but it has a strong presence with advancing video displays.

Zechman

05-25-06, 09:46 AM

The bummer is that if it is set to standard then the TIVO records in nondolby digital and then if I decide to play it back on the home theatre I have standard audio, I think.
Actually, this is not true the way you describe it. The Dolby Digital setting in the menus only affects playback, not recording. If the original broadcast includes DD, then DD will get recorded, no matter what. If you have the Dolby Digital set to OFF, then it'll just play back standard two-channel stereo. You can leave it set to OFF and just turn it on when you want to play back DD (again, assuming the original broadcast included it, which most standard "cable" channels don't).

--Dwayne

Zechman

05-25-06, 10:12 AM

I think what you guys are doing wrong is not leaving enough time after turning the set on before you start with the JUMPx3 sequence. The Qualia ignores remote input immediately after it's turned on, until the bulb is powered up.

Run through the "Service Menu" sequence up to the point where you turn the set on with the POWER button. Then wait until you see a picture. You should see the service menu overlayed on top of whatever is otherwise on-screen.

If not, turn it off and try again.

If so, then proceed with JUMPx3, "2"x12

Also keep in mind that it's also possible that your set has different (newer?) firmware than what's in older sets like mine, and so the menus might be a little different. But I highly doubt that the Service Menu sequence would be different, since that's the same on a number of Sony TV's.

(Mine is at 1928 hours as of this morning, still on the original bulb.)

--Dwayne

kaduku

05-25-06, 02:56 PM

Is the feed from HD sources getting better or what. Lately I have just been sooo impressed with the HD content out there, heck even SD is looking badazz!

Joe C5

05-25-06, 08:01 PM

Just a quick note. You don't have to do the lamp hour thing from the "off state". I never do (well mostly). You have 5 seconds or so after you hit the power button before the lamp actually turns off. Therefore you can safely turn it off and immediately start the sequence. Just remember, although I belive it has a timer, if you mess up, I personally would wait 10 or 15 minutes before starting again so you don't blow the bulb :eek:

BenDover

05-25-06, 09:40 PM

Joe C5

05-25-06, 09:49 PM

Ok, you have to be fast (prepared) but here it is:

1) TV is on
2) Press [Power],[Display],[5],[Vol+],[Power]

You only have 5 seconds, so practice makes perfect...
Don't go too fast though, just under 1 second per press.
Now you are in service mode and can move around to get to the lamp timer.

To reset tv back to normal mode

1) Press [Power], [Power]

Again you have 5 seconds to do it

Does that make sense? It does work (I have done it many times). I only messed up once...

BenDover

05-25-06, 10:19 PM

dreaux

05-26-06, 09:08 AM

Ok I was able to get to the service menu by unplugging the set and plugging back in. I saw two different service menu's....One in the top left and one in the center of the screen. I went thru the center screen and the only reference to the word 'lamp' was this--

Dem Service
13 Timer
1 Lamp timer 3106

Does that mean 3106 hours have been used. Again this was a floor demo so who knows how many hours it was on.
Jim

Official Sony Protocol for accessing the Number of Lamp Timer Hours

The Qualia 006 is in the OFF mode
Using the Qualia remote control
Press Display once
Press the Number 5 once
Press Volume Up once
Press Power
Press Jump Three times
(Be careful here because this can get you into the service menu and in trouble)

The Qualia will power up and display DIM SER in the center of the screen
Then press the Number 2 twelve times
Lamp Timer should appear below DIM SER with the
number of hours following it to the right
Turn the Qualia off to exit

Official Sony Protocol for resetting the Lamp Timer

Continue From the above
Press the Number 1
The menu display should now be at Lamp Timer Reset
Push the Number 3
Press Mute
Press Enter
The menu should display Write - EX in red at the top
Turn the Qualia off to exit
If at any time you feel you are in trouble or where you should not be
Turn the Qualia OFF
If you need assistance call the Qualia 800 number in the manual.
The Sony Qualia people are happy to assist or walk you through the procedure.
Report Post

Please be real careful because you can screw up your TV. Follow the instructions above that are the same as dreux. I had the same problem but got it to eventually work. Try unplugging the TV instead of just turning it off. Then plug it back in. Make sure your remote batteries are fresh. Stand up when you use the remote and aim it straight at the TV. When you do the power command wait until the TV lamp comes up. You should see the service code green lettering on the screen, if not start over. IF you do see the lettering continue

After you hit jump 3 times. wait.

now instead of just blindly hitting the number 2 twelve times, hit "2" one at a time and see the information change. When you get close to ten or so slow down and watch the display. Stop hitting the 2 when you see the word lamp appear. Copy down the info for your records.

I couldn't get the bulb timer to reset to zero even though I followed the instructions. I got it to display "write" in red letters but the number didn't budge. Has anyone out there successfully reset the lamp timer.

BenDover

05-26-06, 09:53 AM

jb007

05-26-06, 10:19 AM

I'm quite certain it's the latter. So instead of a Lamp(s) timer, consider it the total number of hours on your Q006.

timcolo

05-26-06, 04:10 PM

I've had it with Comcast and now that Dish Network offers the local stations in HD I'm going to make the move. Does anyone have experience with the VIP622 DVR from Dish?
Seems pretty pricey at almost $550. Are they any downsides besides the price and are there any deals out there. Thanks for your help

JimP

05-26-06, 04:17 PM

timcolo

You would probably get a lot more responses to your questions about Dish over in the Dish threads.

timcolo

05-26-06, 05:26 PM

I guess you're right but I'm not very familiar with threads and stuff.....I found this one when I bought my Qualia and everyone seems pretty nice and very informed

BenDover

05-26-06, 06:01 PM

you q owners that don't have an optical hd source don't know what you're missing...u-571 was unbelievable...yes, that is my scientific assessment summed up in one all encompassing word :)

it has been great rewatching many titles i have not seen for some time only now in pristine hd and great audio...u-571 compared to the version i have stored on my hd dvr is so clean, especially in the dark underwater scenes...wife hates when i watch this title (as i've done a few times off the dvr already :)b/c the depth charge scenes rattle the house's foundation :D

manfredc

05-26-06, 07:21 PM

I have the VIP622 leased from Dish; great DVR; also cancelled my cable since local HD stations on Dish now; best combination 622 & 006.

thestewman

05-27-06, 12:35 AM

BenDover

05-27-06, 07:56 AM

That is what you have been missing the past year by not having a D-VHS machine.
U571 was available on D-VHS. The D-VHS machine was a great $300 investment.

yeah, i could just never bring myself to buy into a tape based machine...but i also wasn't bitten seriously by the a/v bug until two to three years ago, climaxing with the renovation of my basement into a media room and the purchase of the Q :)

watched riddick last night...another treat.

dreaux

05-27-06, 09:40 AM

That, I believe is the correct area for retrieving the info; now either one of two things, you have just officially reported, at least in here, the longest number of hours on a bulb, or the store replaced the bulb at some point but didn't reset the timer.

I have a feeling they did not replace the bulb. They did not give me that impression but I will call the person who sold it to me and see what he has to say.
(he will say 'not that I know of').
But this was a floor demo sitting out for 9 months and could have been on all 10 hrs a day . They were up front on that.
But the bad news even if they did replace the blub, I still don't know how many hrs would be on it. I thing the solution would be to call Sony and have them send a new blub and reset the hrs.???

BenDover

05-27-06, 09:48 AM

I have a feeling they did not replace the bulb. They did not give me that impression but I will call the person who sold it to me and see what he has to say.
(he will say 'not that I know of').
But this was a floor demo sitting out for 9 months and could have been on all 10 hrs a day . They were up front on that.
But the bad news even if they did replace the blub, I still don't know how many hrs would be on it. I thing the solution would be to call Sony and have them send a new blub and reset the hrs.???

right, but only after the current one fails :)

thesirjay

05-27-06, 10:03 AM

right, but only after the current one fails :)

I don't know for the 300 I would think that having a NEW BULB and seeing the Q in all its brilliance up front would be worth it. You can still have the old bulb nicely packed away for the inevitable "pop moment" but you may end up kicking yourself if you keep watching a bulb thats not as brilliant for another 500-1000 hours without ever having a comparison.

dreaux

05-27-06, 10:11 AM

dreaux

05-27-06, 10:24 AM

I don't know for the 300 I would think that having a NEW BULB and seeing the Q in all its brilliance up front would be worth it. You can still have the old bulb nicely packed away for the inevitable "pop moment" but you may end up kicking yourself if you keep watching a bulb thats not as brilliant for another 500-1000 hours without ever having a comparison.

Great idea!!!

jb007

05-27-06, 11:43 AM

Ok a strange question...I bought the Qualia 006 because the sale person was under the impression that the 006 had a 1080p input while the SXRD 60 did not.
Is there a big difference between 1080i and upconvert 1080p...no... not really. However the new marketing buzz word is 1080p in, so content providers etc. will find a way to provide video in 1080p because people at starting to buy those sets and there is money to be made since folks think they should have 1080p.

Soooo my question is this...Since the sales person made a mistake in saying the 006 had a 1080p in they will take the set back or give me a new Sony 70 coming out in the summer/fall. Is it worth going with a newer technology in the new 70 or stick with the high quality of the Qualia. There are good arguements for either. My gut tells me to stick with a Qualia however I don't know what new features the lastest Sony will have.

Ideas on that?

Jim

Jim:

It's a tough decision. You appear to already be aware of the pluses and minuses and you're correct -- we don't know what new features will be on the the new 70".

1080p input is nice. The SXRD panels will likely be new and improved with the new generation. There may be other *new* featues as well. Plus it will be "brand new." Those are all strong points.

However, as you point out, it won't be a QUALIA. There have been issues reported with the SXRD sets that few have experienced with the Q006. There has been speculation the optics in the SXRD are not of as high a quality as the Qualia. The Q006 is a solid, meticulously built set. Remember, newer is not always better. I purchased the first DVD player Sony ever released in 1996. It was a solid, reliable reference player that I used until I upgraded to an upconverting player when I purchased the Q006 last year. That's a good comparison. I never had an issue with that Sony DVD player (it was cool how the motorized front panel dropped down). The picture was excellent! However, I replaced it with a cheaper model that had more bells & whistles (upconverting, DTS, HDMI) that was not of the same quality and prone to tray lock-ups.

Bottom line recommendation from me: Ask if you can wait to see the new 70" SXRD when it is released and make up your mind at that time whether to exchange your Q006 or not. I -- and others here -- purchased the Q006 sight unseen. If you can avoid doing that with the 70" SXRD it may be in your best interests, given what you have to lose -- a Q006! :)

jb007

05-27-06, 11:52 AM

I watched The Bourne Supremacy on HD DVD and the Q006 and for the first time I was really impressed :) In addition to the superior sound, which I've experienced on all of the HD DVDs I've viewed (Assault on Precinct 13, Full Metal Jacket, Last Sammurai, Serenity), I felt Bourne Supremacy was a really nice transfer and the video was up to HD standards. The colors were rich and the images pristine. A really enjoyable viewing experience.

I have the Sony Blu-Ray Player on pre-order and am looking forward to what it can do in a couple of months :D

Zechman

05-28-06, 09:16 AM

it has been great rewatching many titles i have not seen for some time only now in pristine hd and great audio...u-571 compared to the version i have stored on my hd dvr is so clean, especially in the dark underwater scenes...wife hates when i watch this title (as i've done a few times off the dvr already :)b/c the depth charge scenes rattle the house's foundation :D
U-571 has become a running joke in the Zechman household. Once upon a time I was watching it from HBO HD, and had the volume cranked up. Mrs. Zechman was tired and not really all that interested, so she eventually fell asleep.

She slept through the entire last half of the movie including the depth charges rattling the foundation, and then for some reason she suddenly woke up when the credits rolled and it was quiet. I still tease her about being able to sleep through explosions. :)

--Dwayne

Zechman

05-28-06, 09:21 AM

Just a quick note. You don't have to do the lamp hour thing from the "off state". I never do (well mostly). You have 5 seconds or so after you hit the power button before the lamp actually turns off. Therefore you can safely turn it off and immediately start the sequence.
Just wanted to say that this is absolutely true. I saw UMR pop in and out of the service menu this way several times when he was at my house doing the calibration. Obviously, he'd already had a bit of practice. :cool:

--Dwayne

BenDover

05-28-06, 09:44 AM

dreaux

05-29-06, 11:17 AM

Yeah thats good advice...... but the new technology is tempting. :rolleyes:

http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_DisplayProductInformation-Start?CategoryName=tv_hdtv_projectiontv_42to51&ProductSKU=KDSR70XBR2

Jim:

It's a tough decision. You appear to already be aware of the pluses and minuses and you're correct -- we don't know what new features will be on the the new 70".

1080p input is nice. The SXRD panels will likely be new and improved with the new generation. There may be other *new* featues as well. Plus it will be "brand new." Those are all strong points.

However, as you point out, it won't be a QUALIA. There have been issues reported with the SXRD sets that few have experienced with the Q006. There has been speculation the optics in the SXRD are not of as high a quality as the Qualia. The Q006 is a solid, meticulously built set. Remember, newer is not always better. I purchased the first DVD player Sony ever released in 1996. It was a solid, reliable reference player that I used until I upgraded to an upconverting player when I purchased the Q006 last year. That's a good comparison. I never had an issue with that Sony DVD player (it was cool how the motorized front panel dropped down). The picture was excellent! However, I replaced it with a cheaper model that had more bells & whistles (upconverting, DTS, HDMI) that was not of the same quality and prone to tray lock-ups.

Bottom line recommendation from me: Ask if you can wait to see the new 70" SXRD when it is released and make up your mind at that time whether to exchange your Q006 or not. I -- and others here -- purchased the Q006 sight unseen. If you can avoid doing that with the 70" SXRD it may be in your best interests, given what you have to lose -- a Q006! :)

dreaux

05-29-06, 11:20 AM

That, I believe is the correct area for retrieving the info; now either one of two things, you have just officially reported, at least in here, the longest number of hours on a bulb, or the store replaced the bulb at some point but didn't reset the timer.

I talked to the Sales manager and he said the blub has not been changed and it is rated for 6000 hours. Is he misinformed (again)?

dreaux

05-29-06, 11:34 AM

Honestly, at this point, I would wait for/get the newer 70" that is coming out, or maybe even one of their new lcd panels (i'm speculating here) that would be based on the qualia 005...love my Q, but the blacks are starting to bother me at certain times...sacrilege, i know :(

How big will the Lcd's be. Sort of spoiled with my "70.

jb007

05-29-06, 11:57 AM

I talked to the Sales manager and he said the blub has not been changed and it is rated for 6000 hours. Is he misinformed (again)?

Yes :eek:

jb007

05-31-06, 07:17 PM

We've all joked over the last year and one-half on this thread about Sony Cierges. I was aware that when we purchased the Q006 we supposedly did it from a Cierge. Over the last few months I've been getting emails from a Cierge in NYC about new SONY products, etc. I also received the email about the discounted Q005.

Today I received a call from a Sony Cierge in L.A. for the first time. She was really pleasant and stated she was aware I had pre-ordered a Blu-Ray Player, etc. She asked if I had any questions and told me the Sony Cierges receive product first, so I would receive my Blu-Ray Player before it's even in the Sony Style stores on 8/15/06! She also put me down for a PS3 :D

Finally, she said the Cierges are there to continue to support QUALIA products by answering questions and arranging for technical support if necessary. If everyone at Sony/Qualia is as pleasant and helpful as this Cierge, I think I'm really going to start enjoying being a SONY VIP, for the first time. :)

Hoof

05-31-06, 07:41 PM

PSP3? :eek:

They havnt even come out with a PSP2 yet, whats the name of this chick? I need to talk to her!

jb007

05-31-06, 11:51 PM

PSP3? :eek:

They havnt even come out with a PSP2 yet, whats the name of this chick? I need to talk to her!

My bad. I guess I'm not the only one who makes typos :rolleyes:

hi im drummer03

06-01-06, 01:17 AM

thrasher8

06-01-06, 04:00 AM

Does anyone know roughly how much the new 70XBR2 will be.I was at work looking up the Q006 reg price and employee price and i peed on my self.JK! I was just wondeing if its so high margin cause its the first year of LCoS 70" for Sony.

Rumored at $5,500

We should have more "official" details from the HE show today:
http://www.he2006.com/

Personally, I am definitely IN at that price point. Esp when you consider that most shoppers pay less than retail! :)

thrasher8

06-01-06, 04:04 AM

nhey

06-01-06, 09:25 AM

Hi guys - I've been lurking, but not posting for a few months, enjoying the 006 as always.

Anyway... I decided to change my bulb yesterday. I changed it 8 months ago when I had about 1500 hours on my original bulb, and decided to change my first replacement bulb which also had about 1500 hours, since I was noticing that the brightness level was clearly less than beforehand. After I pulled out the old bulb I looked into the crevice and noticed that to the left of the bulb is a square piece of glass of plastic through which the light bulb's light shines. I looked at it with a flashlight and noticed it had a number of dirty areas. I wiped it as clean as I could with a soft "optical" cloth (the kind you can get at a Lenscrafters to clean your glasses that is lint free), and was really surprised to see how dirty that piece of glass/plastic was. I then sprayed a little Lenscrafters glass cleaning solution on a clean optical cloth and wiped it clean - again a lot of dirt came off.

I also noticed that the bulb I took out had a couple of dirty streaks on it. I think it would be a good idea to take out the bulb every 4 or 5 months just to wipe clean the surface, and also to clean the glass/plastic piece described above.

My new bulb and the clean glass/plastic piece gives me back the original wonderful picture.

Of course, you need to be CAREFUL doing this. Do not use any cleaner other than a special glass cleaner from Lenscrafters or the like, and a lint free optical cloth, just to be safe. Also DO NOT spray anything into the set - if you use a cleaner spray the cleaner (just a little) on a cloth first.

I don't recall reading anyone else mentioning they have done this, but it makes sense to have a dirt-free light path. By the way, my house is VERY clean and I vacuum the exhaust grill on the back of the set once weekly.

Zechman

06-01-06, 09:48 AM

I don't clean mine at all. After all, I keep reading on this forum about how "black levels" are so important . . . . :D

--Dwayne

BenDover

06-01-06, 10:01 AM

...

After I pulled out the old bulb I looked into the crevice and noticed that to the left of the bulb is a square piece of glass of plastic through which the light bulb's light shines. I looked at it with a flashlight and noticed it had a number of dirty areas. I wiped it as clean as I could with a soft "optical" cloth (the kind you can get at a Lenscrafters to clean your glasses that is lint free), and was really surprised to see how dirty that piece of glass/plastic was. I then sprayed a little Lenscrafters glass cleaning solution on a clean optical cloth and wiped it clean - again a lot of dirt came off.

nhey, could you tell whether it was glass or plastic? my fear with plastic would be that even if you use an optical cloth/tissue, you could introduce slight marks onto the surface (like when you get those swirls/spider webs on your cars finish).

if it was definitely glass, which i sort of want to believe it is, given how hot it must get, i would feel comfortable performing a cleaning. wonder if that window is a replaceable item...get a new one with every bulb :)

jb007

06-01-06, 10:11 AM

Interesting points on the bulb and plastic/glass. I wonder why that's not mentioned or recommended in the owner's manual :confused:

BenDover

06-01-06, 10:41 AM

jb, do you put much weight into the cierge's statement that they get ps3 allottment first?

nhey

06-01-06, 12:41 PM

nhey, could you tell whether it was glass or plastic? my fear with plastic would be that even if you use an optical cloth/tissue, you could introduce slight marks onto the surface (like when you get those swirls/spider webs on your cars finish).

if it was definitely glass, which i sort of want to believe it is, given how hot it must get, i would feel comfortable performing a cleaning. wonder if that window is a replaceable item...get a new one with every bulb :)

I really tried to determine that, but it's positioned at an awkward angle that makes it really difficult to see clearly. My best guess is that it is glass. It looks like glass more than plastic, but I'm not sure.

I can't be sure I cleaned it perfectly, but my last couple of wipes returned no dirt marks on the cloth, while my first couple were quite dirty.

JB007 - I'm pretty sure they don't mention this to end users because they don't want folks touching anything inside the set. I can just imagine someone spraying a bottle of Glass Plus into the opening...

The bulb is so bright that a little dirt might have not have a noticeable negative impact on the picture, but who can really say for sure?

thrasher8

06-01-06, 03:15 PM

Rumored at $5,500

We should have more "official" details from the HE show today:
http://www.he2006.com/

Personally, I am definitely IN at that price point. Esp when you consider that most shoppers pay less than retail! :)

Rumored wrong :)

"The KDS-R70XBR2 and KDS-R60XBR2 units will ship in early fall and be available for about $7,800 and $5,300, respectively."

http://news.sel.sony.com/en/press_room/consumer/television/microdisplay/sxrd_grand_wega/release/22354.html

jb007

06-01-06, 03:27 PM

jb, do you put much weight into the cierge's statement that they get ps3 allottment first?

Actually, the pessimistic (and on a good day, pragmatic) person that I am -- I do believe her. She has already sent me materials about upcoming, unreleased Sony products, and invited me to upcoming industry Sony gatherings ala Penton-Man. Her office is on the Sony movie studios lot.

I'll let you know how it goes come November :cool:

brt3

06-01-06, 05:07 PM

The KDS-R70XBR2 and KDS-R60XBR2 units will ship in early fall and be available for about $7,800 and $5,300, respectively.
I actually think this higher-than-some-expected price is a VERY good sign; to me, it indicates that -- perhaps -- a lot of the high-quality Q006 optics will have migrated over to the XBR2. Let's hope they don't leave anything out, as this set could be a "home run" if Sony gets it right. I do hate the "Dumbo" look, though at least the speakers are detachable...

brt3

06-01-06, 05:08 PM

Don't have time to look this up, but if memory serves Sony is using a smaller SXRD chip in the new 70" set than is used in the Q006...

jb007

06-01-06, 07:30 PM

Sony Announces 5 New 1080p SXRD Models (http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/01/sony-announces-five-1-080p-rear-projection-tvs/)

Sarosh

06-01-06, 10:41 PM

Interesting that the KDS-R70XBR2 will weigh 118 pounds less than the Qualia 006.

Sarosh

brt3

06-01-06, 11:33 PM

Interesting that the KDS-R70XBR2 will weigh 118 pounds less than the Qualia 006.
Yeah; at that price there was no way to include the gold bricks hidden inside the Qualia 006 chassis...

jb007

06-01-06, 11:38 PM

Yeah; at that price there was no way to include the gold bricks hidden inside the Qualia 006 chassis...

What about the diamonds embedded onto the SXRD panels in every QUALIA? :D

brt3

06-01-06, 11:40 PM

What about the diamonds embedded onto the SXRD panels in every QUALIA? :D
Those only add a few ounces to the overall weight...

jb007

06-01-06, 11:45 PM

Those only add a few ounces to the overall weight...

Ray, you got ripped off. The diamonds on my Qualia weigh in excess of 100 pounds! ;)

brt3

06-01-06, 11:47 PM

Ray, you got ripped off. The diamonds on my Qualia weigh in excess of 100 pounds! ;)
We could always contend that the superb performance of the Q006 is due to it's proprietary SXRD panels with synthetic diamond substrates...
:D

BenDover

06-02-06, 07:06 AM

I'm excited about the slew of new displays Sony announced...I'll likely pick up one of the 46" Bravia 1080p LCDs...wish they went a little bigger :(

and the damned model numbering is atrociously confusing...

Penton-Man

06-02-06, 08:35 PM

mpsan

06-02-06, 09:39 PM

Sorry to hear of your loss PM. We are going back to Atlanta Tuesday to see how my mother in law is doing. Not looking forward to the 90+ temps though, or Hartsfield.

Zechman,
If you're following this and have gots the time this weekend, you may want to wonder over to Tyson's to take a gander............................

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7763667#post7763667

I would like to hear an unbiased opinion from someone I know and trust and is familiar with the 006.

B.T.W. - Dad died last Saturday. :( :( :(

thestewman

06-02-06, 10:11 PM

Zechman,
If you're following this and have gots the time this weekend, you may want to wonder over to Tyson's to take a gander............................

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7763667#post7763667

I would like to hear an unbiased opinion from someone I know and trust and is familiar with the 006.

B.T.W. - Dad died last Saturday. :( :( :(

PM

Sorry to her the sad news about your father

What's with the 1080P input to the 006 ?

"All i could do was Drool. My friend and I went to the mall to turn in his notebook for repair at the apple store. I wanted to go to the sony store to see what lenses they had for my HDR-HC3 and while browsing around my friend said.."hey dawg, they got the blu ray in there on a 70" Qualia" (i got that kid on x-mas eve feeling) i smiled and walked over. I went in and sat down and the representive stated that it was a demo unit and NOT the final release version. I asked what it was outputting and he said 1080p he clicked info on the remote and sure enough 1080p popped up. I asked if it was hooked up through firewire and he said no, HDMI i peaked behind and sure enough it was hooked up via HDMI. "

Stew

RonB63

06-02-06, 10:22 PM

PM - sorry also from this little corner of the world.

umr

06-02-06, 11:52 PM

PM - My sincere condolences.

brt3

06-03-06, 02:05 AM

PM -- I came close with my Dad about six months back (close call during a triple-bypass). Our thoughts are with you...

brt3

06-03-06, 02:08 AM

BenDover

06-03-06, 07:49 AM

Quick post/bad segue: if any of you have any experience driving from Texas to California I'd appreciate your input (very OT, I know). I will be driving a 40-foot RV and can either take I-10 (southern route) or I-40. My biggest concerns are road quality and mountain passes. Any input would be great. And, no -- my Qualia won't be coming along for the ride...

maybe you can go see that new movie with Robin Williams and take some notes :D

BenDover

06-03-06, 07:50 AM

PM, my sincerest condolonces on the loss of your Dad...be well.

brt3

06-03-06, 11:25 AM

maybe you can go see that new movie with Robin Williams and take some notes :D
We'll be home-schooling our daughter her last year before high school (and the real world). Found a great deal on an RV; we plan on taking her wherever the history she's studying occurred (US history, obviously). I'm dying to take her to that flick; there's (supposedly) some inevitable Robin Williams humor involving Ka-Ka (sp?) and dumping the black water tanks...

Ken Stokes

06-03-06, 12:06 PM

Sorry PM, it's a very hard time, thoughts are with you.

Ken

slocko

06-03-06, 02:24 PM

Sorry PM. Lost my dad 2 years ago so I know what that is like. Your dad sounded like a tough old bird and a character from the story you told us about his hospital stay :)

Penton-Man

06-03-06, 08:36 PM

Sorry to hear of your loss PM. We are going back to Atlanta Tuesday to see how my mother in law is doing. Not looking forward to the 90+ temps though, or Hartsfield.
Thanks guys.

My recent absence from this thread has been a reflection of a severe downturn in his condition over the past 5 months. The last 3 months or so had been especially grueling for him as well as myself as I witnessed first-hand the deterioration of the mind of a retired highly respected surgeon (from a teaching institution !) to that of the mind of probably a 2-3 year old, i.e. Alz. Disease.

None of the routine daily chores that all of us take for granted (eating, showering, shaving, bathroom matters) could be performed by him without direct nursing assistance…..from me, which was my honor to perform.

I truly believe as Tom Brokaw has said, that his, was indeed the Greatest Generation that society has produced, and if I can be 1/10 the man my father was, then I will be proud.

He is eligible for interment at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors and will be placed next to my Mom who was an Army nurse wounded while serving during WWII. They met while in the service of our country.

I may only intermittently drop in for a look-see on this forum for the next few months as now a plethora of paper work begins.

On the AV front, I am happy to report that I sold my non-HDMI fabulously expensive, soon to be “vintage” receiver before I believe it would drop in value tremendously when people begin to embrace the digital receivers and now have what I think will qualify as a umr-certified sound system (at least drive-train wise) for him to tweak upon his next calibration tour out west. With the Hi-def players I’m beginning to believe that the audio enhancement will prove at least equal as an immediately gratifying experience as compared to the video improvements – (in comparison to standard DVD), soooooo I made a move while I could, selling on e-bay.

I even walked away with a few bucks in my pocket after the audio change-out.

So again to all, thank you for the condolences.

God Bless.

schaffer970

06-03-06, 10:01 PM

PM, sorry to hear of your loss. Don't forget to think about the good times and laughter I'm sure you shared together.

Take care.

mpsan

06-04-06, 01:15 PM

Take care, PM. As you may remember, we were in Atlanta in December to see both of my inlaws. My father in law was diagnosed with ALS! ALS at his age!!! Anyway, it was hard to see him get so bad so quickly...Tuesdays with Murray was quite accurate! He died 3 weeks after we left. Anyway, take care and "drop in" to AVS when you can.

Dave

thesirjay

06-04-06, 03:55 PM

PM my deepest condolences. Take care of yourself we will all be hoping for you and your family to have the easiest time possible. You will be missed and welcomed back with open arms when you return.

longshot

06-04-06, 04:17 PM

My deepest condolences as well. Very sorry for your loss.

longshot

06-04-06, 04:21 PM

Hey guys,

Saw the BD demo at the Sony Style store yesterday in Tysons Corner (No. Virginia). It was hooked up to the Qualia 70". That is one gorgeous TV. The demo was terrific. I'm very envious of you guys with this set.

Are people really paying $13k?

Penton-Man

06-04-06, 05:20 PM

Sony has 4 brand new Qualia 006’s left for sale that they are advertising to their V.I.P. members for either 9 or 9.5K.

Thanks John.

Penton-Man

06-04-06, 05:22 PM

We'll be home-schooling our daughter her last year before high school (and the real world).
:eek: :eek: :eek:
Fast forward 10 years…………….

Think Danica Patrick on the F1 racing circuit traveling to races in Europe in her motor-home with a vintage Qualia 006 onboard in the den and a futuristique 3-D display in her bedroom boasting 4,000 lines of vertical and 4,000 lines of horizontal resolution with old man Ray at the wheel of said motor-home drifting every turn he can to impress his daughter.

ninthdragon

06-04-06, 05:51 PM

PM - Sorry to hear of your loss. My condolences go out to you and your loved ones.

rubear

06-04-06, 07:40 PM

I have a bit to report about my 006:
1. The new Dish 622 receiver has a "HD-HDMI Sync" setting. This seems to cure the lip sync problem.
2. At about 1400 hours my display is too dim to watch. I have a replacement buld on the way.

Love this set, wish the lamp lasted longer!

RonB63

06-04-06, 11:24 PM

Jeff from AccuCal came to Madison, Ct. and worked his magic on my Q as well as 3 other jobs in my neighborhood. A few odds and ends...

He brought down my color temperature which was much too high in the 10-40 IRE range.

My red and green primaries were also in need of adjustment.

He also tweaked many other settings. After my kids came home from school I was not able to spend much time in the room. :(

Bottom line - my Q went from great to greater!!

My audio was another issue. My Denon 4806 and Klipsch Ultra2 7.2 system was waaaaay off and I knew it. Jeff spent most of the morning dialing that puppy in real nice! A world of difference!!

I realize my observations are not very technical - sorry.

To sum it up - Jeff (umr) is a GREAT guy that is a complete joy to be around. He is certainly a rare breed professionally - this guy knows his stuff!

Hire him! I know I will again after I get my Blu-ray and bedroom plasma.

Hang in there PM!

BenDover

06-06-06, 09:12 AM

i know there is least one known replaytv afficianado in here, check it (http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/06/replaytv-the-resurrection/)

thestewman

06-06-06, 10:28 AM

I talked to the Sales manager and he said the blub has not been changed and it is rated for 6000 hours. Is he misinformed (again)?

Thought I would report on my own personal experience.

I purchased my Qualia 006 in April 2005. I originally started viewing my 006 in the Standard mode alternating occasionally into the Vivid mode. In December UMR set up my Qualia and now that the set is properly set up I have been using the Pro mode exclusively.
My set is in a dedicated area for viewing and listening to music with heavy theater type drapes on the windows so there is low ambient light even during the day. I have the 006 set on the Reduced Power Setting.

Last night I checked and my lamp timer shows 2770 hours and the picture is a bright as ever. Maybe 6000 hours could be reached.

Stew

brt3

06-06-06, 10:37 AM

:eek: :eek: :eek:
Fast forward 10 years… Think Danica Patrick on the F1 racing circuit traveling to races in Europe in her motor-home with a vintage Qualia 006 onboard in the den and a futuristique 3-D display in her bedroom boasting 4,000 lines of vertical and 4,000 lines of horizontal resolution with old man Ray at the wheel of said motor-home drifting every turn he can to impress his daughter.
:D :D :D

There's something I hadn't thought of; just make the entire back of the coach (as a true elitst the word "motorhome" is frowned upon) a wall-to-wall Qualia display. Said kid, however, is just too nice to be the next Danica -- doesn't have the killer instinct...

[on the road in Nacogdoches, TX -- thank God for internet cafes!]

Ted99

06-06-06, 04:02 PM

Quick post/bad segue: if any of you have any experience driving from Texas to California I'd appreciate your input (very OT, I know). I will be driving a 40-foot RV and can either take I-10 (southern route) or I-40. My biggest concerns are road quality and mountain passes. Any input would be great. And, no -- my Qualia won't be coming along for the ride...

Driven both many times. Take the Southern route (I-10). Easier grades. Some rough pavement in Arizona. No matter which direction I drive, I always have a headwind in West Texas.

nhey

06-06-06, 05:05 PM

Thought I would report on my own personal experience.

I purchased my Qualia 006 in April 2005. I originally started viewing my 006 in the Standard mode alternating occasionally into the Vivid mode. In December UMR set up my Qualia and now that the set is properly set up I have been using the Pro mode exclusively.
My set is in a dedicated area for viewing and listening to music with heavy theater type drapes on the windows so there is low ambient light even during the day. I have the 006 set on the Reduced Power Setting.

Last night I checked and my lamp timer shows 2770 hours and the picture is a bright as ever. Maybe 6000 hours could be reached.

Stew

Stew,

When you put in a new bulb you'll see that the bulb is DEFINITELY not as bright as it first was. Trust me. The brightness drops off noticeably at about 1500 hours.

nhey

06-06-06, 05:09 PM

Thanks guys.

My recent absence from this thread has been a reflection of a severe downturn in his condition over the past 5 months. The last 3 months or so had been especially grueling for him as well as myself as I witnessed first-hand the deterioration of the mind of a retired highly respected surgeon (from a teaching institution !) to that of the mind of probably a 2-3 year old, i.e. Alz. Disease.

None of the routine daily chores that all of us take for granted (eating, showering, shaving, bathroom matters) could be performed by him without direct nursing assistance…..from me, which was my honor to perform.

I truly believe as Tom Brokaw has said, that his, was indeed the Greatest Generation that society has produced, and if I can be 1/10 the man my father was, then I will be proud.

He is eligible for interment at Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors and will be placed next to my Mom who was an Army nurse wounded while serving during WWII. They met while in the service of our country.

I may only intermittently drop in for a look-see on this forum for the next few months as now a plethora of paper work begins.

On the AV front, I am happy to report that I sold my non-HDMI fabulously expensive, soon to be “vintage” receiver before I believe it would drop in value tremendously when people begin to embrace the digital receivers and now have what I think will qualify as a umr-certified sound system (at least drive-train wise) for him to tweak upon his next calibration tour out west. With the Hi-def players I’m beginning to believe that the audio enhancement will prove at least equal as an immediately gratifying experience as compared to the video improvements – (in comparison to standard DVD), soooooo I made a move while I could, selling on e-bay.

I even walked away with a few bucks in my pocket after the audio change-out.

So again to all, thank you for the condolences.

God Bless.

A very touching tribute. All the best.

Joel

06-07-06, 02:35 PM

Greetings, all.

First, my condolences and sympathy to PM for your loss. I lost my mother two years ago at 84. My Dad, also a WW II vet, is still alive at 94 and living in a nursing home, although he too is battling a form of dementia. They married in 1942 right before he was shipped out (to lovely Reno, NV!). I agree with you about our parents' generation and honor them all. I hope you find peace in honoring and celebrating a life fully and well lived.

Second, I've been absent from the forum for awhile; I recently had hip replacement surgery and was offline for a few weeks. Now me and my bionic hip are back at work, back online and I just wanted to check back in and see how everyone was doing. My Q is two years old and still looks fabulous. :)

Hip replacements are an interesting procedure, and while it will take 2-3 months for a full mobility recovery, I was pleasantly surprised at how little pain was involved and how speedy the recovery actually is. Highly recommended if it's something you're facing. The only downside was ... it hurt my posterior to sit for long periods of time, which ruled out a lot of movie watching I was otherwise hoping to do on the Q!!! lol

Cheers all!

Penton-Man

06-07-06, 09:17 PM

I know alot of Qualians are attorneys and if there are any of you that deal with Trust administration (in the State of California) following the Trustee’s passing (Dad) or could refer me to a reliable lawyer that deals with that sort of stuff and charges reasonable rates, I would appreciate the referral. PM me if needed.

It would simply involve filling the appropriate tax forms for the state of California. My sis deals more with litigation and she’s bonkers over the whole matter now so, I can’t turn to her for help.

Joel, I hope the hip re-hab progresses well and stay in touch on this forum. I still think we’ve got the greatest thread around.

Joel

06-08-06, 02:46 PM

PM has a PM. :)

Cheers

rubear

06-09-06, 11:54 AM

Thought I would report on my own personal experience.

I purchased my Qualia 006 in April 2005. I originally started viewing my 006 in the Standard mode alternating occasionally into the Vivid mode. In December UMR set up my Qualia and now that the set is properly set up I have been using the Pro mode exclusively.
My set is in a dedicated area for viewing and listening to music with heavy theater type drapes on the windows so there is low ambient light even during the day. I have the 006 set on the Reduced Power Setting.

Last night I checked and my lamp timer shows 2770 hours and the picture is a bright as ever. Maybe 6000 hours could be reached.

Stew

2770 hours, amazing. Mine was pretty dead at 1400. I wonder if it wasn't a floor model. Maybe they reset the timer before bringing it out. I was always suspicious as it came without a power cord.

-Robert

rubear

06-10-06, 02:08 PM

Stew,

When you put in a new bulb you'll see that the bulb is DEFINITELY not as bright as it first was. Trust me. The brightness drops off noticeably at about 1500 hours.

He says that he is using reduced power mode. I measured about 55 fewer watts in this mode. (305 -> 250) So the lamp went from 200->150. This might make a big difference in lamp life.

The difference in brightness was huge in my case. At 1400 hours I could not see the picture without the shades drawn. Now it is quite bright with them open.

I wonder if there's an hour counter besides the lamp timer?

-
Robert

nhey

06-10-06, 05:49 PM

I agree that reduced power mode explains his findings. There's no other timer besides the lamp timer that I'm aware of.

thesirjay

06-10-06, 06:52 PM

That reduced power mode thing is intriguing. I have found that I like reduced power mode for movies but when using the Q as a monitor it oddly caused a bit of a problem with the refresh being visible and uneven screen brightness (some corners being a bit dark on the all white webpages for instance). Overall I try to keep mine on powersaver mode. I opened it up and did a quick clean and luckily found not much dust at all (this despite having both cats and dogs and a decent amount of dust accumulating around the Q as I really don't go behind it except to fiddle with cabling now and then). Thanks for the warnings I used a microfiber cloth and worked around in there very carefully. I was surprised that the whole lamp unit didn't slide very smoothly. I had to jar it a good deal which made me a bit worried after the very smooth front cover removal. No adverse effects but I wish they had made it slide into a slot smoothly rather than requiring tugging and angling to take out and put back in.

MotorMouth777

06-12-06, 02:11 AM

Penton,

Been away from the forum due to extensive traveling. Catching up, I saw the news about your father.

My condolences

MotorMouth777

06-13-06, 11:18 PM

OMG........... The thread is dead!!!!!

:(

RonB63

06-14-06, 07:25 AM

No Motor - not quite dead - just enjoying the relaxed pace of summer. This thread would be humming right along if only our Q's had problems and glitches. Maybe I'll go bang on the side of the tv a few times to see if anything develops. ;)

We need to get some nice Blu-ray players out there to fire things up a bit.

brt3

06-14-06, 12:54 PM

OMG........... The thread is dead!!!!!:(
It's only a flesh wound...

BenDover

06-14-06, 01:13 PM

Zechman

06-14-06, 06:22 PM

well, against all reason and restraint, i pre-ordered the Samsung BD player from BB; hopefully it will arrive on or around 6/25...
Ben, you are my new best friend. :cool:

Now I only need to point to you when Mrs. Zechman gets on my case about my buying too many "toys" . . . .

THANK YOU!!! :D :D :D

--Dwayne

(I still think I'll be the first on this thread with a PC burner, though.)

thesirjay

06-15-06, 09:31 AM

well, against all reason and restraint, i pre-ordered the Samsung BD player from BB; hopefully it will arrive on or around 6/25...
per http://www.tgdaily.com/2006/06/14/samsung_to_launch_blu-ray_on_25_june/

Samsung BDP-1000

The BD-P1000 will cost $1000, twice the amount of the first HD DVD players, but will offer the unique feature to put out 1080p high-definition video. According to Sanduski, the amount of players "in transit to retail today" is in the "thousands," which is encouraging, but does not provide a clear indication how limited those players will be on 25 June.

I am surprised I didn't think any players would be out for months still. Good luck on getting your hands on one we will all be anxiously awaiting your stories.

thesirjay

06-15-06, 09:34 AM

BenDover

06-15-06, 10:11 AM

Anyone else feel a tad sad about our Qualia. It and the Aibo were fed the same high tech rat poison and left to die on the technology highway. Why oh why Sony did you let them die. People were ordering, children were playing, geeks and technophiles alike were singing your praises... Now we sit with our obsolete yet state of the art items and wonder why we no longer get to look forward to the next upgrade as all other products will differ and not truly be better or the same in every way...

what i don't get is why the electronics from their newer SXRDs can't be used in our Qs since they are so very similar in all respects...our optics stay the same, just swap out the "board(s)" necessary to give us 1080p input (i've still yet to see a side-by-side comparison of 1080i being fed to a 1080p panel vs. 1080p being fed to a 1080p panel that can accept 1080p...if it can get any better than what i see with my HD DVD player, I'll be very impressed, and amazed).

RonB63

06-15-06, 10:19 AM

Anyone else feel a tad sad about our Qualia. It and the Aibo were fed the same high tech rat poison and left to die on the technology highway. Why oh why Sony did you let them die. People were ordering, children were playing, geeks and technophiles alike were singing your praises... Now we sit with our obsolete yet state of the art items and wonder why we no longer get to look forward to the next upgrade as all other products will differ and not truly be better or the same in every way...

Kinda like when Rolls Royce decides to abandon one body style in favor of a new one. Just makes me wanna cry! ;)

I guess all we can do now is save save save for that next holy grail tv. :o

Ben - new toys are a good thing! I want to hear that it is the greatest thing to come along in days... even weeks!! I need that extra motivation to open the wallet (again).

RonB63

06-15-06, 10:25 AM

what i don't get is why the electronics from their newer SXRDs can't be used in our Qs since they are so very similar in all respects...our optics stay the same, just swap out the "board(s)" necessary to give us 1080p input (i've still yet to see a side-by-side comparison of 1080i being fed to a 1080p panel vs. 1080p being fed to a 1080p panel that can accept 1080p...if it can get any better than what i see with my HD DVD player, I'll be very impressed, and amazed).

Good points - I wonder if the cost is high for some reason (?).

I will be bummed if I read lots of "1080P inputs have changed the way I watch my tv compared to that ancient 1080i..."

Personally I think the difference will be modest - even on our obsolete/state of the art tv

umr

06-15-06, 10:30 AM

Good points - I wonder if the cost is high for some reason (?).

I will be bummed if I read lots of "1080P inputs have changed the way I watch my tv compared to that ancient 1080i..."

Personally I think the difference will be modest - even on our obsolete/state of the art tv

You are likely to see those posts. The placebo and bragging right effects are huge and each display handles 1080i/1080p differently. I believe the difference from a real 1080p input and 1080i on your displays would be very subtle.

slocko

06-15-06, 12:15 PM

I haven't watched dvds in a while. I mostly only watch hd material wheter it's from OTA or Direct.

The other day I had the opportunity to watch 2 dvds and I was amazed that at one point I thought dvds looked great.

While one did look better than the other, you could see the obvious lack of detail.

It's amazing how subjective we can be as humanbeings.

Are we approaching the limits of how good a picture we can get out these displays? Will one day we look back at HD and wonder how we put up with such lack of detail?

RonB63

06-16-06, 06:04 AM

Are we approaching the limits of how good a picture we can get out these displays? Will one day we look back at HD and wonder how we put up with such lack of detail?

I hope so! I read some months ago the the Japanese were working with a prototype (for commercial use I believe) that had a very high resolution (8000x4000?). People were not able to tell a difference between the tv picture and reality while viewing a static image. I am picturing a fruit bowl with some flowers in a vase (?).

It might be sci-fi right now but who knows how much people will demand and pay for 20+ years from now.

slocko

06-16-06, 02:35 PM

Taking the Plunge
By Thomas J. Norton

Will you be able to resist? With HD DVD players already on the market (though they are still hard to come by) and Blu-ray due soon, I wonder just how many enthusiasts will be able to hold fast to their typical answer when surveyed on the subject, "I'll wait until there's a winner."

That may take a while. Sony will certainly want to wait until the PlayStation3 is established in the market. Toshiba will wait to see just how much that videogame platform, which brings with it the promise of a competitively priced Blu-ray player, affects the race. And the whole ballgame will be changed if LG or someone else is able to bring a universal player to market at anything like an affordable price.

But because of HD DVD, and soon enough, Blu-ray, Tuesdays are fun again. Even when the new releases are of older films—as they have been almost universally to date—the anticipation of a fresh audio-video experience on the traditional video release day is palpable. For me, the first two months of the HD DVD format have echoed the early days of DVD.

And it hasn't come any too soon. The studios have pretty much milked their libraries, more than once, for creative ways to resell the same standard definition DVD titles. Anyone for Anaconda: the Super Director's Cut / Special Collector's Edition (Newly Remastered with Additional Deleted Scenes!)? While there are a few personal favorites that desperately need new transfers or even first releases (St. Elsewhere, where are you?) by and large the cupboard is bare of prime older movies and TV shows. In fact, if it weren't for the popularity of TV on DVD, which surprised everyone, the well would have run dry three years ago.

More than anything else it's this dearth of previously unreleased titles for DVD release that has the studios salivating over the potential of HD DVD, Blu-ray, or both. The success of high-definition on an optical disc could reinvigorate the video business.

I hope it does, even if it means I'll have to replace much of my video collection (but certainly not all of it- I'm not sure I really need a high def version of Danny Deckchair!). But it's chilling to look over the 1000+ titles on my DVD shelves and find very few that I'd decline, out of hand, to toss and replace with a new high def version. The cost would be crushing—particularly if the studios continue their practice of premium pricing for HD releases. (Did I hear you say that we in the biz get DVD review samples gratis? That's true, but not of everything. There are hundreds of titles in my collection that I've bought at retail, just like you. And a lot of freebies I would never have bought!)

Not all of my experiences with HD DVD to date have been pristine. With the caveat that so far I've watched these titles only on a 720p display (though arguably one of the very best, the Yamaha DPX-1300 DLP projector), I've found a few titles disappointing. The buzz in the on-line forums lately suggests that a few of the titles actually came not from 1080p/24 masters but from 1080i/60 masters instead, and that these were "bobbed" to create the 1080p/24 video on the disc. Bobbing is a crude way of de-interlacing video. Instead of properly stitching together the two fields that make up each frame of an interlaced image into a single frame, each field is instead line doubled by interpolating the additional lines needed to turn each 540p field into a 1080p frame.

In order to encode the disc at 1080p/24, a 1080i/60 master must not only be deinterlaced, but the extraneous fields that were added in the process of creating a 1080i/60 transfer from the 24fps film original must also be removed. This removal process is known as inverse 3/2 pulldown or reverse telecine.

The bottom line in all of this is that if bobbing does the conversion from 1080i/60 to 1080p/24, the resulting 1080p/24 is not high definition at all by any accepted definition of that term. And if the reverse telecine process is handled poorly, the image could also look worse than a good DVD.

I would not go that far with the two titles in question here, The Fugitive and Full Metal Jacket, both from Warner. They actually look quite respectable. But they are easily the least visually impressive HD DVDs I've seen. Nor are their audio tracks anything particularly special.

Two more recent titles that don't make the prime cut are The Bourne Supremacy and Constantine. The latter looks very clean, with surprisingly little visible film grain (though I would expect to see some), fine color, and good blacks (important in this film). But most of it looks surprisingly soft for a high definition transfer when blown up on a 78-inch wide projection screen. If I saw this image from a standard DVD, I'd rate that DVD below average in the detail department.

The Bourne Supremacy, on the other hand, does appear to be an accurate representation of that film's original elements. But the creative choices made in the film's look don't leave much room for eye-popping, high def detail. You won't use this disc to demonstrate HD on your home theater, but it is what it is. Both Bourne and Constantine do, however, have superlative surround sound.

The best-looking HD DVDs I've seen so far include The Phantom of the Opera, Unforgiven, U-571, Apollo 13, and The Chronicles of Riddick. The first four, all good films, belong in any early HD DVD collection (though clearly Unforgiven and Apollo 13 are in a class by themselves). Even Riddick contains enough eye candy to make it engaging. And it has been expanded here beyond its theatrical length by an additional 15 minutes, making its story far more coherent. If I were choosing a single HD DVD simply to demonstrate the format's picture quality, it would be Phantom, but Riddick wouldn't be far behind.

The above five titles also have exceptionally good sound, to which I can add Serenity, perhaps the best sounding of all the current HD DVDs. Serenity is also above average in picture quality, but not quite in the same class as the best-looking titles.

What about all of those other titles, the ones that fall between disappointing and great? I wrote off Doom early on despite its very good picture and sound because it's simply too dumb a film to consider. It's a hurl-inducing gore fest to boot, particularly in this "Unrated Extended Edition." The very dark Million Dollar Baby looks and sounds good, but its picture quality is uneven for a high definition transfer, looking sharp in some shots and surprisingly soft in others. And while it's also a fine film, it doesn't invite repeated viewing. Cinderella Man does, but, again, I don't find the transfer quality enough of an upgrade to get me excited.

Want more information? Our new movie blog, "The Movie Room," is now up and running, with more detail on many of these titles, and others as well. We'll also have a lot to say there about hot new standard definition DVDs. Check it out.

An entirely separate problem from the quality of the new HD DVD discs and players, which at their best can be astonishing, is their sheer (un)availability to date. Shane Buettner has a look at that problem in our next story.

slocko

06-16-06, 02:38 PM

Dying A Quick Death At Retail
By Shane Buettner

Following HD DVD's launch and trying to get my hands of hardware and software as it's been released has given me a serious case of FUD ((Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt) about both HD formats. The presence of HD DVD online and at retail is non-existent, and if it's the same for Blu-ray, good luck, and maybe good night.

My local retailers for HD DVD hardware and software are Magnolia Audio Video, Circuit City and Best Buy. Magnolia Audio Video and Circuit City, in a few random calls since HD DVD's launch, have never actually claimed to have an HD DVD player in stock to sell. Circuit and Best Buy typically have had to break from the phone call, and taken a couple of minutes just to give a lazy "check back next week," but at least Magnolia has claimed to have had players in stock and encouraged me to come in and order a player. As I write this Magnolia claims to have gotten in a run of 20-25 players and sold through it, and claims to have 10-12 orders in on their next run of 20-25 players (the exact arrival date of which is not known).

The software front is even more dire. My local Circuit City has occasionally had two or three copies of two or three titles, and that's it. On June 6th I went in and there was nothing- and nothing was exactly what the clerk I asked knew about what they are or where they might be.

On June 6th I continued on to two different Best Buy stores looking for the latest HD DVD releases, and there's a little story behind this too. Warner's PR firm has a strict policy of sending only one copy of each movie to any single publication. So, since Tom Norton and I are stationed 400 miles apart, I have to shop retail just like the common man order to cover Warner's entry into the new format. Makes sense. Screeners are too expensive to just hand out to journalists trying desperately to support your fledgling format. But I digress.

The reason I really wanted to track down some discs on June 6th is that this was supposed to be a hot day for HD DVD- not only had The Perfect Storm been released, but the relatively new Constantine was slated for that day in addition to a big combo HD DVD/DVD release of the brand spanking new Harrison Ford thriller Firewall. This disc is reputed to be the first disc to have brand new special features that take full advantage of the new format's enhanced interactivity.

Not only were none of these titles anywhere to be found at two different Best Buy stores, the HD DVDs had already been relegated to the miniscule shelf spaces, one of which was entirely separate from where the DVDs are sold. An aisle end display had perhaps a dozen copies of three or four different HD DVD movies, and then in the AV section of the store a flat panel TV was connected to an HD DVD player and there were perhaps 20 HD DVDs spanning 6-8 titles. None of them were the hot new titles that were in fact released that day.

This is the same treatment previously given to other fringe formats such as D-VHS/D-Theater, DVD-A and SACD, all of which can only be described as mainstream failures (of these formats only SACD is barely holding onto a narrow segment of the audiophile niche, and even there its sales are dwarfed by those of vinyl records). This is not retail support so much as retail life support!

Online the situation isn't much better. Amazon.com and Best Buy's web sites have consistently lagged behind with the new releases, often not having them available on the actual release date. As I write this Wal Mart's web site isn't advertising the three Warner titles released on June 6th. It's difficult to find HD DVD on either site without doing a direct search on the site.

Although initially HD DVD ads were prevalent, in Best Buy's 6/4 multi-page Sunday newspaper ad there were DVRs, DirecTV, progressive scan DVD players and even washing machines pimped as being on sale, but no HD DVD hardware or software.

Folks, Blu-ray had better get more run at retail than this, or we're going to be stuck with broadcast HD.

slocko

06-16-06, 02:44 PM

By Thomas J. Norton
Kingdom of Heaven 4-Disc Director's Cut

Orlando Bloom, Eva Green, Jeremy Irons, David Thewlis, Brendon Gleeson, Marton Csokas, and Liam Neeson. Directed by Ridley Scott. Aspect ratio: 2.35:1(anamorphic). 194 minutes (film). 2005. Not Rated. 5.1 Dolby Digital, 5.1 DTS. 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment. $34.98.

Picture 3.0* (out of 4*)
Sound 4.0*
Film 4.0*

When I read film critic Owen Gleiberman's review of the theatrical release of Kingdom of Heaven in Entertainment Weekly a year or so back, I stopped to consider a phrase in his very first sentence. He referred to the film about the Crusades of the Middle Ages as "curiously remote." What, I pondered might make a film like this feel remote. Then it struck me. I hadn't yet seen the film, but other reviews referred to the efforts of both the script and director Ridley Scott to treat both the Christian and Moslem sides fairly. In today's sensitive climate, there was no other option. But if you have two sides whacking away at each other on screen and neither side is portrayed as the good guys, you're left with no one to root for. Gleiberman went on to make the same point. But that observation isn't exactly rocket science. Film convention demands that the viewer take sides. Otherwise your sympathies are split and you become confused and emotionally adrift. The film doesn't become remote. You do.

This extended Director's Cut doesn't alter that balance, but it does improve on the theatrical cut in so many other ways that it not only emerges as an entirely new experience, but one of Ridley Scott's finest films. It changes from a film that dropped from the radar shortly after it opened to a film that might have had a shot at an Oscar nomination for Best Picture of 2005.

The original had too much story to tell in too little time, and left the viewer feeling rushed. When the young French Blacksmith Balian (Orlando Bloom) encounters his previously unknown father, Godfrey, on the latter's way back to Jerusalem and the Holy Land, he at first declines Godfrey's plea to join him. But when he assaults his brother, the local priest, over an incident involving Balian's dead wife (who had committed suicide), he flees after Godfrey to join him. He runs to escape certain death in punishment for his act, but also to seek forgiveness both for him and for his dead wife.

In the original, Balian rises all to quickly to a position of prominence in Jerusalem, and we wonder how a humble blacksmith has become the noblest of knights. The extended version makes it very clear. In doing so it not only elevates the film from the mundane to the near great, but also enhances Orlando Bloom's role from perfunctory to impressive. He's no Russell Crowe, Scott's previous historical hero (Gladiator) but the part doesn't call for a Russell Crowe. Balian is not a great but disgraced general, but rather a good but humble man with undiscovered talents and a moral compass that ultimately validates his worth. The rest of the cast also rises smartly from (in some cases) the relative obscurity of their abbreviated roles in the original release to what turn out to be, in fact, superb performances across the board.

While the film tries to maintain a balance between Christians and Moslems, there is no question that the most significant villains here are on the Christian side. But by no means are all of the Christians portrayed as villains. Balian and his eventual followers, Tiberius the sheriff of Jerusalem (Jeremy Irons), the Hospitaler (David Thewlis) and Baldwin, the leper King of Jerusalem (an uncredited Edward Norton, completely covered apart from his eyes) are all noble and honorable men. But the fact that most of the film's running time takes place on the Christian side merely offers more opportunity for the story to show the wide variety of good and bad that spring up in any human endeavor as immense as the Crusades.

The film is spread out over two discs, with an intermission break and both an overture and brief intermission music. The video transfer is good, but softer than I'd like. Perhaps that will be corrected in a high definition version somewhere down the road. (Note to Fox: Make the first HD release of this film this extended cut and relegate the original to a historical curiosity, not an opportunity to double-dip yet again, this time on the HD enthusiast's dime.) The film's production design, with its Moorish interiors (the film was shot in Spain and Morocco) and sweeping battle scenes deserves the best transfer it can get. But while the current one could be better, it's still more than good enough to keep you absorbed in the film without distraction. Artifacts, including edge enhancement, were rarely evident.

The only down side to the detail HD will add is an enhancement of the movie's many gory fight scenes. There are a lot of bloody and cringe-inducing moments here, far more than in, say, Scott's Gladiator. This is my only reservation about the movie. We already know that war (particularly Medieval war) is hell. You don't need to (literally) hit us over the head with it. Excessive gore makes a film inaccessible to many viewers who could otherwise not only enjoy it, but just as important would profit from seeing it.

The sound is the real technical star here. I listened primarily to the 5.1 Dolby Digital track. Apart from some excessive bass (easily tamed by dialing down the subwoofer a bit) it is outstanding. The battle scenes are crushing, the surrounds active where appropriate, and the dialog natural. But the biggest treat for me was composer Harry Gregson-William's chorus-heavy score. It's ravishing, and ravishingly-recorded. I plan to pick up the CD at the first opportunity. Its only weakness is that while it has enough variety for a 2+-hour film, the 49 minutes added to this Director's Cut does result in a bit too much repetition.

I've come this far and still haven't touched on the special features. In addition to three fine commentary tracks there are two additional discs filled to overflowing with extras. The only shortcoming is that a few of the features provided on the original theatrical cut DVD are not included here. But apart from that you get your money's worth. The 4-disc set retails for $34.98, but it's available on Amazon for under $20. At that price it would be no bargain if the film were a dud. But it isn't. Even if there were no extras at all the movie itself would make this DVD package worth every penny.

mpsan

06-17-06, 07:56 PM

Well, I am back from Atlanta! What a mix of people in Retirement living. At one point I felt that if I ever get like some I saw I wish someone would shoot me and take my Q, but enough of that.

Now, back On Topic!

After all this time, I am thinking of moving my HD Comcast box to my wifes sewing room so she can listen to the digital music stations (too bad I can't buy a box just for that). My DVR's are on the other two HD sets anyway, as we just watch DVD's and Football on the Q.

So, now my question...am I reading it right that with the cable connected to the Q and the Optical out going to my Meridian, that I get 5.1 on digital channels and NOTHING on the SD stations. I think they say I need the L and R audio out for those. Here we have the SD stations multiplexed so it may work, but since I do not have my ears (speakers) on my Q it seems like this can be a real pain!!

mpsan

06-20-06, 02:46 PM

I am surprised that no one seems to be using the Q's Tuner and Optical out. Also I never remember 3 days without any posting before!

Penton-Man

06-20-06, 05:20 PM

I'm still here. :)

mpsan

06-20-06, 06:33 PM

...and we are all glad you are!

Any word at all yet on DiveDude?

I'm still here. :)

thestewman

06-21-06, 12:30 PM

I'm still here. :)

So am I

BenDover

06-21-06, 12:56 PM

Ben, you are my new best friend. :cool:

Now I only need to point to you when Mrs. Zechman gets on my case about my buying too many "toys" . . . .

THANK YOU!!! :D :D :D

--Dwayne

(I still think I'll be the first on this thread with a PC burner, though.)

btw, don't point to me too quickly as i've cancelled my order for the sammy bd player :(

but i just found out that denon has a new 3930 dvd player model coming out and some really over the top avr as well!

BenDover

06-21-06, 03:02 PM

jb007, you may want to give that friendly cierge a call...

seems sony bd player pushed back yet again (http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_BrowseCatalog-Start;sid=n5GsbV2hxNmtPBk45BimZhKuQg0eHETpmnA=?CategoryName= hav_bluraydiscsub&Dept=tvvideo)!

Zechman

06-21-06, 07:13 PM

btw, don't point to me too quickly as i've cancelled my order for the sammy bd player :(

but i just found out that denon has a new 3930 dvd player model coming out and some really over the top avr as well!
Ok, FINE!

I hate you. :mad:

Are you happy now???

:D :D :D

--Dwayne

P.S. These are my personal views and do not necessarily the views of my employer.
But if you really need me to, I'm pretty sure I can convince them to admit that I'm right.

P.P.S. Damn right Penton-Man's still here . . . . (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7873432&&#post7873432)

Zechman

06-21-06, 07:30 PM

Penton, I regret that I have been so remiss as to not have had the decency to offer my condolences to you on the loss of your father until now. Seriously.

The subject, and especially the timing of it, kinda freaked me out. My own father is going through some health issues (nothing so serious, thankfully), and the reality of the "A" disease is just plain horrifying to me.

I can imagine no greater personal damnation that someone whose "special-ness" is derived from his brain could go through than that particular form of deterioration. (And believe me, I knew long ago that I wouldn't be getting through life on a hunky body or charismatic charm!)

Please don't take my avoidance of the subject as a sign that I didn't care. In fact, I felt it more than I expected--and didn't really want to face it.

My apologies and my condolences, both from the bottom of my heart.

--Dwayne

Penton-Man

06-21-06, 07:50 PM

Penton, I regret that I have been so remiss as to not have had the decency to offer my condolences to you on the loss of your father until now.
My apologies and my condolences, both from the bottom of my heart.

--Dwayne
Not to worry bud, I actually kinda figured it may have hit a chord.

We will actually be staying in Falls Church at a dog friendly hotel for the funeral at Arlington National.........so, if you shant be busy the evening of Aug. 1 (seems like there's a long line to stand in because of all the guys and gals dying over in Iraq), and if I'm not a hysterical madman crying in my soup - perhaps we can have a Qualian get together ?

You could meet the other evaulators of the HDMI vs i.LINK STUDY(maybe we'll get that connection on the Blu-ray recorders? :rolleyes: ) as zee wife and zee royal pouch are also making the cross-country flight in.................coach ! :eek:

Penton-Man

06-21-06, 07:55 PM

but i just found out that denon has a new 3930 dvd player model coming out and some really over the top avr as well!
Pray tell, some details on this avr. Any new toys are welcome. :)

Penton-Man

06-21-06, 11:19 PM

Since BenDover apparently is sparing with a fellow Qualian (me) on a Blu-ray player thread, the following is a link to his winked query…………………….
(see paragraph 2, not as graphic as you've recently read, but the point was made in a more delicate fashion for us elitists) :)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7560054&highlight=space#post7560054

BenDover

06-22-06, 08:58 AM

Pray tell, some details on this avr. Any new toys are welcome. :)

there was a story about each of these new toys from denon on the engadget site the other day...when i get into the office i'll get the link and post it...

btw, re the post above, sparring?!? come on now...we can't have differing opinions particularly when it comes to sony? please don't paint me with that negativity, especially here, my feelings would be hurt...:=(

i am not a brand loyalist but given that sony has a lot of my hard-earned money already, it is not like i am anti-sony, i'm just not buying into all this bd bull, and there is a lot of it swirling around...

from a business/financial perspective, i should be one of the most vocal supporters of sony and bd, but i speak from a purely technical/enthusiast/consumer perspective.

thestewman

06-22-06, 10:29 AM

there was a story about each of these new toys from denon on the engadget site the other day...when i get into the office i'll get the link and post it...

btw, re the post above, sparring?!? come on now...we can't have differing opinions particularly when it comes to sony? please don't paint me with that negativity, especially here, my feelings would be hurt...:=(

i am not a brand loyalist but given that sony has a lot of my hard-earned money already, it is not like i am anti-sony, i'm just not buying into all this bd bull, and there is a lot of it swirling around...

from a business/financial perspective, i should be one of the most vocal supporters of sony and bd, but i speak from a purely technical/enthusiast/consumer perspective.

Here is some technical information that makes a strong argument for Blue-Ray

High-Def Video: A Capacity Question

The rival media's physical storage constraints have the potential to be a greater issue in this struggle than many observers have considered up until now. Before HD DVD's launch, I had privately heard rumblings of studio concerns about HD DVD's lower capacity.

Now that I've taken a closer look at the first eight HD DVD movies I received from Warner Brothers and Universal, I can understand why. None of the eight titles could fit on a 15GB single-layer HD DVD, and half came within a mere 5GB of maxing out a 30GB dual-layer disc--even though all relied on the latest, more efficient video codecs (VC-1 and MPEG-4 AVC). The movies were The Last Samurai (which topped out at 27.3GB), Mel Brooks's Blazing Saddles (25.4GB), The Phantom of the Opera (24.8GB), Jarhead (24.7GB), The Bourne Identity (22.7GB), Serenity (19.6GB), The Fugitive (18.2GB), and Doom (16.5GB).

Granted, this is a small, random sampling, but the results nonetheless surprised me, considering that I had for so long heard HD DVD supporters say that even 15GB would be roomy for high-def content. Instead, it seems that HD DVD content is, in many cases, barely squeezing onto 30GB discs today--and the tight space leaves little breathing room for the interactive-video future that Hollywood's creative minds will dream up down the road. All of the titles I saw are first-generation; not surprisingly, their menus and level of interactivity are basic and do not reflect the complexity I expect to see from both formats in the near future. Plus, the existing extras don't take full advantage of the formats, nor were they created natively in high-definition, with high-def, wide-screen presentation in mind. And the soundtracks are more limited, typically only today's 5.1-channel sound, with just one audio commentary instead of multiple commentaries and elaborate features.

The complete article is here:

http://www.pcworld.com/news/article/0,aid,126112,tk,nl_dnxnws,00.asp

BenDover

06-22-06, 10:43 AM

Denon's new AVR (http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/21/denons-avc-a1xva-receiver-or-a-small-car/)

Denon's 3930 (http://www.engadget.com/2006/06/20/denons-dvd-3930-upscaler-plays-it-all/)

BenDover

06-22-06, 10:46 AM

thanks stew for the info...i don't want to get into it here though...something about shitting where you sleep comes to mind :)

BenDover

06-22-06, 11:32 AM

Zechman,

Time to break out the wallet and get on your knees to beg the wife...

Pioneer's BD burner now shipping...$1K (http://www.extremetech.com/article2/0,1697,1980121,00.asp)

Joel

06-22-06, 02:33 PM

Penton-Man

06-22-06, 08:23 PM

btw, re the post above, sparring?!? come on now...we can't have differing opinions particularly when it comes to sony? please don't paint me with that negativity, especially here, my feelings would be hurt...:=(

i am not a brand loyalist but given that sony has a lot of my hard-earned money already, it is not like i am anti-sony, i'm just not buying into all this bd bull, and there is a lot of it swirling around...

from a business/financial perspective, i should be one of the most vocal supporters of sony and bd, but i speak from a purely technical/enthusiast/consumer perspective.
That’s crap.

You came to the Blu-ray/HD DVD controversy party at the eleventh hour while it’s been going on for MONTHS on other threads as a neophyte not knowing the history of many posters in this fiasco that has destroyed or closed many threads. Hell, you didn’t even know who Amir was until I informed you recently, and like I said he carries some baggage. And he’s probably the most honorable of them all compared to all the other employees or MS wannabees stuck in dead-end jobs that have nothing better to do all day than bash Blu-ray.

With some knowledge of “advanced” codecs in a limited implementation you quickly became a vocal proponent of HD DVD disregarding the fact that these new formats are in the earliest (esp. Blu-ray) of the evolutionary stages fanning the flames rather than trying to be a peacemaker.

And some of the bull that is being spread around is done subtlety by those emphasizing certain strengths or downplaying others or even dismissing them altogether by people employed to advance their agenda.

All THAT I can accept as your view of the superiority of one format or one codec compared to another based upon a “purely technical/enthusiast/consumer perspective.”

BUT -

Then after what, 390 pages of a Qualia family thread that even outsiders have commented is one of the shinning stars as far as threads on the AVS forum - you decide to spar with me on another thread ?

I could care less if that nonsense came from some of the regular HD DVD zealots or Blu-ray nut-cases (because I’ve lam-basted both sides- go ahead and look it up!)…..but from a Qualian ?

I DO NOT consider "having differing opinions" to consist of comments like………….

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7873938&&#post7873938

or this………………………….

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7874224&&#post7874224

I consider that sparring.

This is my LAST word on the subject with you.

Penton-Man

06-22-06, 08:24 PM

Penton, I don't live anywhere near Arlington but interestingly enough, will be flying to MN on Aug. 1 to visit my 94 year-old (!) Dad, also impaired by dementia and also a WWII vet. I can think of no better way to honor your Dad and their generation than by visiting my own Dad, and will be thinking of you and your family.

Thanks Joel. One thing that I think alot of people either forget about or postpone due their daily mundane routines is visiting/caring for their parents and before you know it……they’re gone.

And then you never had the opportunity to do something with your Dad or Mom that you wished you had.

One of my fondest memories was when I was a young wupper-snupper, my Dad took me on the Amtrack train from Baltimore up to N.Y.C. to see Yankee stadium and the Yankees play and on that day he placed in my hand a photo from his wallet of me as 5 year old that was all wrinkled and discolored.

On the back of the photo there were several autographs of some the great Yankees of old – as he had access to the clubhouse back in the day as an assistant team physician.

Fast Forward about 30 years………………
I escourted him personally to a game at Camden Yards in Baltimore -which had recently opened……………………………..

Remember that first time you saw the picture of your 006 ?.............THAT was minor compared to the sight of walking out of the gate and seeing for the first time a ballpark like Camden Yards with your elderly father. I’m just happy I had the foresight to do that long before his eyesight and his mind eventually failed him.

Embrace every moment, you may never get another chance. :)

BenDover

06-22-06, 09:00 PM

peace everyone, my time here is done.

pm, prayers for you and your dad, may he rest in peace.

Penton-Man

06-23-06, 12:46 PM

Yet another thread closed because of argumentative one-upmanship between the regular protagonists – just scrawl upwards.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7883490#post7883490

I wonder how many more will be shut down before the end of the weekend.

thesirjay

06-23-06, 01:11 PM

thesirjay

06-23-06, 01:14 PM

Play nice all we are Qualians and we shouldn't let technology come between us. We all have opinions and as long as we state them diplomatically there shouldn't be any rancor ( and we all have bad days so take things with a grain of salt ). Alas the Q006 ship has sunk but those of us who got lifeboats should try to be polite (luckily we are unlikely to have to eat any fellow occupants).

HardDriver

06-23-06, 01:14 PM

Hello everyone, I posted in this thread quite a bit when we first got our 006, and it's good to see it still going strong. We had a horrible lightning storm last night here in Kentucky, and when we began to hear thunder, we paused our movie and looked out the window. While we were looking out, the lights dimmed for a few seconds, like a brownout with the 006's brightness dimming accordingly (it's connected to the power outlet with a heavy duty surge strip). We immediately turned everything off, waited for the fan to stop, and unplugged everything from the wall for the night.

Today, everything looks perfect and the TV is fine - HOWEVER - there seems to be a high pitched electrical hum, or whine, coming from the right side of the TV. Does anyone have some ideas as to what this could be? Should I be concerned, or perhaps call Qualia tech support? Perhaps a bulb replacement is in order?

This also brings up the issue of power conditioners/surge protectors/and UPS systems. What are you guys using to protect your Q's, and what equipment would you recommend to prevent something like this from happening again?

JimP

06-23-06, 03:57 PM

fyi for those who don't know Samsung is another company claiming they will likely come out with a dual format player.

http://www.tgdaily.com/2006/06/21/samsung_dual_format_hd_player/

I hope they do it soon and make it a good implementation that way we don't have to worry how long the silly format war lasts.

You hit the nail on the head with the "good implementation" comment.

I've read some of the tirades about one format over another and codexs.

Seems to me that at this point, its impossible to know how these formats will perform as what people are seeing may or may not be good implementations of the format.

But we'll leave those debates to the commoners. :D

brt3

06-24-06, 11:43 PM

P.P.S. Damn right Penton-Man's still here . . . . (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7873432&&#post7873432)
Gotta love anyone who posts under "Mr. Hanky"...

MotorMouth777

06-25-06, 12:41 AM

Thank goodness for the Q....I love my Q......My Q rocks...........

I went and saw Cars tonight............absolutely wonderful movie...... but when I do venture out into the Cinemaplex I am strongly reminded why I gladly spent the money for the Q. First off the floor was greasy....yuk but down in front some rude family had their two year old screaming and running all over the theater. They would pick her up but that didn't really do anything......finally after about 45 minutes of screaming and kicking/pounding the manager came in and asked them to leave............ The crowd applauded.....precious.

I told my wife that was the last straw for me and the theaters. I told the Cinema manager about my experience and he said sorry but I don't think they see that kind of stuff as a real business problem. I told him that stuff like this keeps me at home and not wanting to visit his theater in the future. I know he didn't give a rats @$$ about me but it made me feel better to tell him face to face that I wouldnt' be back than to slink home and just bitch about it like a little girl to you guys on the forum. Now I can bitch to you like a little girl with a clear heart.

I ask myself why would I go to the Cinema ever again.....I've got a picture that is beyond awesome........my sound system is quite up to snuff...........and my couch is clean and the floor is not sticky plus I have cold beers in my refrigerator. If any of the theater owners are wondering why their business is down I would suggest they go pay $50 bucks for a ticket and warmed over snacks, fight everyone for their dirty nasty seats and get sneezed and coughed on from the rude huddled masses. I for one will be very hard pressed to be among them anymore with only the coolest of movie blockbuster perhaps getting me to the Cinema......but only for something like a LOTR #4 or a Star Wars #7 Not very likely eh?

I can happily wait the four months till it comes out on disk.....now with HD-DVD and Blu-Ray my experience at home will just be that much better............

Can you tell it was a pleasant night out.

brt3

06-25-06, 01:08 AM

Are you still on the road ?
Been back in CA for not quite two weeks -- just enough time to frantically play catch-up as the Big Brown Bus is hitting the road again Sunday AM. Headed to Indy for the United States Grand Prix; then it's down to Tennessee, my country of origin, to blow stuff up REAL GOOD!!!

On a related note, when I told my daughter (she's 12) about the Fireworks SuperStore we'll be visiting -- which is damn near as big as a full-service grocery store -- her eyes glazed over and I thought I detected a hint of drool starting to trail from the corner of her mouth. Here in Northern California you can buy little more than sparklers, whereas TN will sell you nearly anything you'd like, some of which is capable of obliterating ear drums, shattering bones, and blowin' limbs clean off. My kinda fun! :D

[Editors Note: PLEASE refrain from telling me what a lousy parent I am for exposing my child to potentially destructive explosive devices. She don't get to blow up the good stuff, and I'm reminded of a certain sports-car user's group I used to frequent, where I got bent over but good for saying how -- in the middle of nowhere -- I briefly showed my kid what the car could do. Damn kid loves fireworks AND tire smoke. And Qualias, by gawd!]

We now continue with the thread currently in progress...

Zechman

06-25-06, 12:30 PM

We will actually be staying in Falls Church at a dog friendly hotel for the funeral at Arlington National.........so, if you shant be busy the evening of Aug. 1 (seems like there's a long line to stand in because of all the guys and gals dying over in Iraq), and if I'm not a hysterical madman crying in my soup - perhaps we can have a Qualian get together ?
In that case, Mrs. Zechman and I would like to invite you to come and have dinner at Castle Zechman. Or, if you prefer, we can meet somewhere that suits you. We'll work out the details via PM when the time gets closer.

--Dwayne

Zechman

06-25-06, 12:47 PM

Zechman,

Time to break out the wallet and get on your knees to beg the wife...

Pioneer's BD burner now shipping...$1K (http://www.extremetech.com/article2/0,1697,1980121,00.asp)
Nah, no need to get on my knees just yet. The Pioneer drive doesn't do dual-layer BD's at all, and so will be obsolete as soon as another one comes out that does.

When the Samsung SH-B022 ships (AFAIK, it's expect to be the first one to ship that will be DL BD capable), then I'll definitely be having that heart-to-heart with Mrs. Zechman.

Especially since I just recently bought an HDR-HC1 camera (my first camcorder, actually) for taking some shots of our upcoming visit to the 50th state this fall.

In the mean time, I'll get by with rolling the HD video to DVHS.

--Dwayne

P.S. It could be worse--I could be waiting for SED . . . .

Zechman

06-25-06, 12:49 PM

MMMMMMM . . . tire smoke. :cool:

--Dwayne

mpsan

06-25-06, 04:27 PM

Good job...now on to Restaurants!!!!!!!!

Thank goodness for the Q....I love my Q......My Q rocks...........

I went and saw Cars tonight............absolutely wonderful movie...... but when I do venture out into the Cinemaplex I am strongly reminded why I gladly spent the money for the Q. First off the floor was greasy....yuk but down in front some rude family had their two year old screaming and running all over the theater. They would pick her up but that didn't really do anything......finally after about 45 minutes of screaming and kicking/pounding the manager came in and asked them to leave............ The crowd applauded.....precious.

I told my wife that was the last straw for me and the theaters. I told the Cinema manager about my experience and he said sorry but I don't think they see that kind of stuff as a real business problem. I told him that stuff like this keeps me at home and not wanting to visit his theater in the future. I know he didn't give a rats @$$ about me but it made me feel better to tell him face to face that I wouldnt' be back than to slink home and just bitch about it like a little girl to you guys on the forum. Now I can bitch to you like a little girl with a clear heart.

I ask myself why would I go to the Cinema ever again.....I've got a picture that is beyond awesome........my sound system is quite up to snuff...........and my couch is clean and the floor is not sticky plus I have cold beers in my refrigerator. If any of the theater owners are wondering why their business is down I would suggest they go pay $50 bucks for a ticket and warmed over snacks, fight everyone for their dirty nasty seats and get sneezed and coughed on from the rude huddled masses. I for one will be very hard pressed to be among them anymore with only the coolest of movie blockbuster perhaps getting me to the Cinema......but only for something like a LOTR #4 or a Star Wars #7 Not very likely eh?

I can happily wait the four months till it comes out on disk.....now with HD-DVD and Blu-Ray my experience at home will just be that much better............

Can you tell it was a pleasant night out.

mpsan

06-25-06, 04:33 PM

BRT the third, we have a funny deal here in Oregon in that we can only have sparklers. But, we are only a few miles from Washington state and can get almost anything. We are on a cul de sac and at the end of the street each year all of the people compete for the most illegal "show".

There is one guy who wins each year. The reason...he is a special effects guy for Movies!!! He even scares some of the kids!

Been back in CA for not quite two weeks -- just enough time to frantically play catch-up as the Big Brown Bus is hitting the road again Sunday AM. Headed to Indy for the United States Grand Prix; then it's down to Tennessee, my country of origin, to blow stuff up REAL GOOD!!!

On a related note, when I told my daughter (she's 12) about the Fireworks SuperStore we'll be visiting -- which is damn near as big as a full-service grocery store -- her eyes glazed over and I thought I detected a hint of drool starting to trail from the corner of her mouth. Here in Northern California you can buy little more than sparklers, whereas TN will sell you nearly anything you'd like, some of which is capable of obliterating ear drums, shattering bones, and blowin' limbs clean off. My kinda fun! :D

[Editors Note: PLEASE refrain from telling me what a lousy parent I am for exposing my child to potentially destructive explosive devices. She don't get to blow up the good stuff, and I'm reminded of a certain sports-car user's group I used to frequent, where I got bent over but good for saying how -- in the middle of nowhere -- I briefly showed my kid what the car could do. Damn kid loves fireworks AND tire smoke. And Qualias, by gawd!]

We now continue with the thread currently in progress...

gFrank

06-26-06, 05:03 PM

I went to the LA Home Theatre Show. I saw the Blue Ray demo on the Ruby Projector. It was very good but not as good as I recall when I saw the $30,000 Qualia projector in Vegas at the Sony Style Store, which clearly beat the Qualia 006, on HD material. In Vetgas, they had the projector and the qualia 006 in the same room with the same material.

I don't think the optics on the Ruby or the new Sony SXRD sets are as good as the Qualia OO6 or the $30,000 Qualia projector. The sony rep told me that the qualia has the Carl Zeiss lens and a glass front that makes a difference.

The new 70 inch sony to replace the Qualia 006 was there that accepts 1080p. All the new SXRD sets will accept 1080p. I think the new 70 inch will be about $6,500 but I am not sure. It uses a 150 watt bulb while the qualia uses a 180 watt I think. It was no better than the qualia 006 and was somewhat dimmer.

All the new Sony sets accept 1080p and the blue ray player will output 1080p. No plans for Sony to offer a 1080p input for the Qualia 006. They don't think there will be much difference in the picture with the sony blu ray player. In fact, I think it will be better because of the better optics of the Qualia.

That being said I was blown away by the new 1080p 50 inch Pioner Plasma that is due out this week at 10K. It may not have the natural color of the qualia but it has the same resolution and more punch, if thats what you like. This will be followed by other 1080p plasmas from Panasonic and Hitachi. They really give the Qualia 006 a run for the money but they are not 70 inch.

For those who like the look of a CRT as I do. The Toshiba SED sets at CES were just awesome but they max out at 40 inches for now and may be available by the end of the year. They have the best black levels I have seen on any technoogy.

So it looks like our sets will still be competitive until the 1080p plamsas hit later this year but they will not be affordable at larger than 60 inches for now.

But if you are still waiting for a 40 inch television for the bedroom wait for the Toshiba SED sets. They had a ship passing in the night in a harbor and you could clearly see the black smoke coming out of the somestack against the black sky.

olor

uoCOnaccept it. t

Penton-Man

06-26-06, 06:39 PM

But if you are still waiting for a 40 inch television for the bedroom wait for the Toshiba SED sets. They had a ship passing in the night in a harbor and you could clearly see the black smoke coming out of the somestack against the black sky
There's actually an official thread for SED ....
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=491741&page=1&pp=30

I actually haven't kept abreast of it since around page 46-47? or so because things seemed at a standstill.

Maybe you can monitor it and keep us up to date? :)

Penton-Man

06-26-06, 06:48 PM

In that case, Mrs. Zechman and I would like to invite you to come and have dinner at Castle Zechman. Or, if you prefer, we can meet somewhere that suits you. We'll work out the details via PM when the time gets closer.

--Dwayne
Well I do like the sound of that home meal :) but only if you allow the little man to accompany us into your abode? Purty please. :o

He’s totally house trained and I guarantee your wife will love him because he charms all the women he meets (including his vet who didn’t want to give him back to us :eek: )

Ya see, I couldn’t bear to leave the little one in the car in the August heat and humidity of the Greater D.C./Northern VA. area.

Will keep in touch via PM.

Thanks.

Penton-Man

06-26-06, 06:58 PM

I went to the LA Home Theatre Show. I saw the Blue Ray demo on the Ruby Projector. It was very good but not as good as I recall when I saw the $30,000 Qualia projector in Vegas at the Sony Style Store, which clearly beat the Qualia 006, on HD material. In Vetgas, they had the projector and the qualia 006 in the same room with the same material.

I don't think the optics on the Ruby or the new Sony SXRD sets are as good as the Qualia OO6 or the $30,000 Qualia projector. The sony rep told me that the qualia has the Carl Zeiss lens and a glass front that makes a difference.

The new 70 inch sony to replace the Qualia 006 was there that accepts 1080p. All the new SXRD sets will accept 1080p. I think the new 70 inch will be about $6,500 but I am not sure. It uses a 150 watt bulb while the qualia uses a 180 watt I think. It was no better than the qualia 006 and was somewhat dimmer.

All the new Sony sets accept 1080p and the blue ray player will output 1080p. No plans for Sony to offer a 1080p input for the Qualia 006. They don't think there will be much difference in the picture with the sony blu ray player. In fact, I think it will be better because of the better optics of the Qualia.

I believe that Arisawa ?sp. provided the screens for our Qualia’s and I wouldn’t be surprised if Sony went a cheaper route with the new SXRD’s to become more price competitive.

I still think that the value of 1080p input thing may be a bit overblown (unless, you plan on purchasing a super expensive scaler to complement the 006 or are into video gaming on a BIG screen).

The next best thing for VIDEO at least may be HDMI 1.3 ? Just guessing here.
http://www.hdmi.com/press/pr/pr_20060622.asp

But that’s way over my head, maybe umr can chime in when he gets a chance to give us his thoughts.

Zechman

06-27-06, 10:41 AM

Well I do like the sound of that home meal :) but only if you allow the little man to accompany us into your abode? Purty please. :o

He’s totally house trained and I guarantee your wife will love him because he charms all the women he meets (including his vet who didn’t want to give him back to us :eek: )

Ya see, I couldn’t bear to leave the little one in the car in the August heat and humidity of the Greater D.C./Northern VA. area.

Will keep in touch via PM.

Thanks.
Zee Royal Pooch is welcome to join us. (Well, not AT the table...;)) I have no doubts at all that Mrs. Zechman won't want to give him back either.

And I'm sure he'll enjoy some time to run around in the back yard, too. Dogs don't usually get to do as much of that as they'd like when they're away from home.

--Dwayne

Zechman

06-27-06, 10:46 AM

...but only if you allow the little man to accompany us into your abode? Purty please. :o

He’s totally house trained and I guarantee your wife will love him because he charms all the women he meets (including his vet who didn’t want to give him back to us :eek: )

Ya see, I couldn’t bear to leave the little one in the car in the August heat and humidity of the Greater D.C./Northern VA. area.

P.S. There's DEFINITELY a dirty joke in there somewhere . . . . :eek: ;) :D

(Historical Note: Mrs. Bobbit lived less than 15 miles from my house.)

--Dwayne

Barrybud

06-27-06, 03:33 PM

The info on Blue Ray and AVR's is interesting, but can we PLEASE pull this thread back onto topic?

Thanks

Penton-Man

06-27-06, 05:29 PM

Geez Barry,
I thought the mods have given up on our little clan long ago.

O.K. -
Straw Dogs a classic film (Dustin Hoffman, and Susan George :) ) just started playing on HD Net Movies yesterday or so and is being repeated I guess over the next few days.

It really looked good on my 006, ESPECIALLY, when I finally got curtains to completely block out all the light around sundown.

Guess what guys, I'm still on my original bulb ! :)

thestewman

06-27-06, 08:35 PM

mpsan

06-27-06, 09:17 PM

Same here with the lamp...Q owners use lamps, not bulbs! :D

Anyway, I keep meaning to see how many hours are on it but by the time I remember to try the codes, I have turned the set on and do not want to turn it off.

Geez Barry,
I thought the mods have given up on our little clan long ago.

O.K. -
Straw Dogs a classic film (Dustin Hoffman, and Susan George :) ) just started playing on HD Net Movies yesterday or so and is being repeated I guess over the next few days.

It really looked good on my 006, ESPECIALLY, when I finally got curtains to completely block out all the light around sundown.

Guess what guys, I'm still on my original bulb ! :)

Penton-Man

06-29-06, 11:29 AM

Guys, I just stopped by to check my inbox in case there were any messages left somewhere in the pipeline.

So, I’m out of here (AVS forum). Perhaps I’ll return when some sanity prevails and we can continue forward to enjoy our hobby.

Anyways, brt is currently at Indy for the U.S. Grand Prix (F1 race) so I guess in a few days he’ll be posting something here to the effect that if you wish to contact me, you can go thru him for instructions. Keep in mind next Mon.(July 3), we’re flying to Germany for the semis and final game of the World Cup so I’ll be awol for about a week and internet access will be uncertain.

Jeff, I’ll send you an e-mail regarding hooking up for a calibration perhaps sometime this winter or so.

adiós amigos :)

mpsan

06-29-06, 02:35 PM

Very sorry to see this PM. Take care and stop in once in a while!!

Guys, I just stopped by to check my inbox in case there were any messages left somewhere in the pipeline.

So, I’m out of here (AVS forum). Perhaps I’ll return when some sanity prevails and we can continue forward to enjoy our hobby.

Anyways, brt is currently at Indy for the U.S. Grand Prix (F1 race) so I guess in a few days he’ll be posting something here to the effect that if you wish to contact me, you can go thru him for instructions. Keep in mind next Mon.(July 3), we’re flying to Germany for the semis and final game of the World Cup so I’ll be awol for about a week and internet access will be uncertain.

Jeff, I’ll send you an e-mail regarding hooking up for a calibration perhaps sometime this winter or so.

adiós amigos :)

Rob Tomlin

06-29-06, 06:22 PM

brt3

06-29-06, 11:50 PM

...I’m out of here (AVS forum). Perhaps I’ll return when some sanity prevails and we can continue forward to enjoy our hobby. Anyways, brt is currently at Indy for the U.S. Grand Prix (F1 race) so I guess in a few days he’ll be posting something here to the effect that if you wish to contact me, you can go thru him for instructions.
Well, the ONLY silver lining I can think of is that this might allow me a chance to get a fraction of the mighty PM post level. Otherwise I second the sentiments previously expressed; bummer, man! I will be happy to forward any requests for PM's email; a good way to do this is to visit my Q-site and send me a message via the button there.

We did arrive at Indy today. Piece of advice: if you EVER contemplate visiting St. Louis by RV please seek immediate psychiatric attention. I have never seen anything like the labyrinth we went through to park the RV within walking distance of the Gateway Arch... :(

Indy, on the other hand, is very cool. This is the first time I've been back since my Dad took me to the Indy 500 when I was 10 or 11 years old. I am totally psyched about walking into the track for the first time tomorrow.

And, I can relive it all in Q-Vision upon my return... :D

Joel

06-30-06, 04:43 PM

PM ;eaving??? Boy, I must have missed something ... and now I'm going to miss Penton-Man. Too bad - I agree with the above posters and hope you come back. You just can't let people who post on a website get to you ... it's not worth it. It's the internet, after all - jerks and idiots come with the territory! lol Take care, PM -

Cheers

MotorMouth777

07-02-06, 12:52 AM

Penton,

Come back soon........... I have always enjoyed your postings. This Qualia thread will be like General Lee without Stonewall Jackson.......................and you see how that turned out.

Enjoy the games over in Deutschland.......I have been watching them on the Q......... I never knew what a cool game football really was till now.

Enjoy

JKUCSMA

07-02-06, 06:15 AM

bernster2001

07-02-06, 10:44 AM

Went to see Superman Returns in 3D at Metreon IMAX in San Francisco last night while on vacation there. This was a total WOW. The IMAX screen is humongous,and pq and sound were the best I have ever seen and heard at a theater. I really enjoyed the movie too. Never saw a nondocumentary at an IMAX before. Don't see more than one or two movies per year in theaters since I got a home theater. Can't wait to see this film again in HD on my Q.

casey

07-02-06, 02:24 PM

Help!!!!!!!

I think my bulb is finally about to go. I turn it on and it takes a very long time to come on and then the picture has lost it's brightness. Of course I have relatives in for a few days and I wanted to show off the beast a bit. Does anyone know a place on the internet that I can get one overnighted in? I'm assuming the first one is not free........................or is it?

Thanks.

bernster2001

07-02-06, 02:46 PM

First bulb is free. Just call Qualia and they will quickly deliver it.

casey

07-02-06, 02:56 PM

Thanks for the quick reply-

I did not buy mine at the Qualia store......................is the bulb still free? Do you have their phone number? I looked and can't find their web site for some reason. Thanks again.

MotorMouth777

07-02-06, 10:38 PM

Sony Bulb XL-500 Sony Parts 800-488-7669 $330.

MotorMouth777

07-02-06, 10:40 PM

I miss Penton already....

:(

MotorMouth777

07-02-06, 10:46 PM

Casey................ahhhhh the power of google. Your gonna have to learn to use the force or you can not become a Jedi.

The Qualia toll free number is (1-877-QUALIA3). You need to call between 9:00 AM and 10:00PM Eastern. The first bulb is supposed to be free no matter where you purchased the Qualia as long as you purchased it new.

:)

Rob Tomlin

07-02-06, 11:23 PM

I miss Penton already....

:(

Same here.

And I don't even own an 006!

reincarnate

07-03-06, 06:31 AM

Penton,

Been away from the forum due to extensive traveling. Catching up, I saw the news about your father.

My condolences
Today I've studied Penton-Mans exit here and in the Blu-ray forum. Anyone can understand his sense of loss with his father, so I offer my condolences too.

I am not a psychiatrist but reading his defense of the Blu-ray failure is most fascinating. What an extreme apologist brand loyalist type of thinking. It appears as if he tied the two heterogeneous subjects together. Lastly even attacking the moderators. This is not good.
Based upon this limited evidence I understand why Penton-Man had to leave AVS forum. His spiritual needs are not going to be met here.

Note: after I signed-in I saw that “This user is on your Ignore List.”. What a weird day.

MotorMouth777

07-03-06, 03:35 PM

Did you really mean to say Psychologist...........its an easy mistake as I don't think they offer the class that covers the distinctions till your senior year in high school.

(Psychiatry is a medical speciality whose primary goal is the treatment of mental illness. They are specifically trained in the differential diagnosis (the distinguishing of various forms) and treatment of mental illness).

(A Psychologist is a scientist and/or clinician who studies psychology, the systematic investigation of the human behavior and mental processes).

However, your high school curriculum aside, you are correct about one thing......by your own admission you are not a "psychiatrist".......so why would you turn right around and pretend to be one, proceeding to bore everyone with this rambling, inchoherent regurgitation of egghead psychobabble like you were actually in the know? Don't preface it with some "psychiatrist" label to try and add authority to your opinion like its anything more than a SWAG. And a rather poor one at that.

Your so full of hot air Your telling Penton that on the one hand you offer up your most sincere condolences but then turn right around and say that he is some kind uneducated brand fanatic, lashing out at people and is so feeble minded and weak he is seeking his spiritual salvation right here..... on the AVS forum...............You know nothing of Penton and I am amused that you would even pretend to understand anything or anyone from a mix of postings on the "AVS Forum".

If you have something to add about the Qualia 006 then go right ahead..........if not, go troll somewhere else for your jollies.

I'm outta here too.....psychoanalyze that will ya.

Motor

Turn off your computer and go outside..............the graphics are amazing.

Rob Tomlin

07-03-06, 03:40 PM

mpsan

07-04-06, 04:18 PM

Quick question for 6412/3412 Comcast owners...

I just got two 6412's replaced with two 3412's. I did not copy my settings but all I need is to confirm what you Q owners are using. I have it set to 16:9 and 1080i. This should be OK, but I forgot what I had set for 4:3 Override. Is it stretch or just OFF? I assume we do not want the Comcast box to do a Stretch but let the Q do it? This is why I think OFF is correct.

Also, was there a "best" audio setting?

TIA,
Dave

david mcdaniel

07-06-06, 10:52 AM

It has been 12 months since I was active on this thread being one of the first owners of the 006. It appears from the last few posts that the Qualia is no longer in production and that this thread is almost finished. Did price competition at 1080p force Sony to discontinue the Qualia? Are they expected to continue support? I still love mine and remember those heady days around January 05. Perhaps the thread could become a place for owners to post news about 006 without the OT debates and discussions. Thanks to those who have made it enjoyable and useful.

mpsan

07-06-06, 03:47 PM

Thanks David. I do not think this thread has died...just slowed down. Some OT has always been welcome here and I have read EVERY post here. I still do not know how it got to a point where a bunch have left. In fact, I feel that we need this thread now so we can tell how to keep the Q running. I have still never seen a better picture and I use an upscaling SD DVD player (Sony 975).

David, too!
P.S. Used to live in Arvada.

It has been 12 months since I was active on this thread being one of the first owners of the 006. It appears from the last few posts that the Qualia is no longer in production and that this thread is almost finished. Did price competition at 1080p force Sony to discontinue the Qualia? Are they expected to continue support? I still love mine and remember those heady days around January 05. Perhaps the thread could become a place for owners to post news about 006 without the OT debates and discussions. Thanks to those who have made it enjoyable and useful.

MotorMouth777

07-07-06, 03:10 AM

G.B.

07-07-06, 10:33 AM

I hope Sony will support all the Lamps for a long time for all the Sets. I have lost count...How many different Lamps do they have now for all of the Model's they have made ? Remember, that was the selling part....CRT's get old & dim....Here You just replace the lamp....

thestewman

07-07-06, 11:57 AM

Should we be concerned that Sony may not make or carry the XL-500 anytime soon since the Q line is being discontinued? Was/is this lamp specific to only the Q006 or does any other device use it. What about three years from now.........how about 5 years. Seven, Ten???

I keep two on the shelf at all times for redundancy but since this pig eats one every 7 months or so loss of access to lamps would be a major source of rectal chaffing................ It would be a dark day indeed. ....

I wonder what is contributing to your shortened bulb lifetime.
My original bulb that has over 2800 hours on it and my 006 went into service in March 2005. Others have stated similar numbers of hours.

In my setup I use the Pro mode and the reduced power setting.
Consider checking for abnormal usage conditions. Rapid on off cycles, vivid picture setting etc. Possibly you might check you AC voltage for higher than normal readings or surges.

G.B.

07-07-06, 12:04 PM

Mine is doing fine ....It was MotorMouth777 that was hoping like we all are Sony keeps the Lamps in stock for some time. You have very good tips thestewmen ,on how to have a longer Life on the Lamp. I second that.

mpsan

07-07-06, 02:17 PM

I thought by law parts had to be kept for at least 7 years!

I hope Sony will support all the Lamps for a long time for all the Sets. I have lost count...How many different Lamps do they have now for all of the Model's they have made ? Remember, that was the selling part....CRT's get old & dim....Here You just replace the lamp....

thestewman

07-07-06, 02:19 PM

MotorMouth777

07-07-06, 02:59 PM

My TV comes on in the morning and stays on till 1:00 ti 2:00 AM or so most every day. I am averaging 14 to 16 hours a day. It does not go on or off during the day............just sits there either displaying TV shows or the boys are terrorizing the Qualia with their XBox 360. I am getting my $11,000 value out of it and hope it is worn plum out in three more years when the warrenty expires. (Am Ex...extra year)

That works out to about 3,000 hours every 7 months which is my track record. My current bulb has been working for about 7 months now so I expect to fire up the next sacrificial lamp sometime soon. Picture is still bright and awesome so maybe get a bit more out of this one. At $300 bucks for a lamp I don't really care if I buy two a year but what would suck more than anything that has sucked before is to not be able to find the bulbs and try and watch the Q with a flashlight wedged in where the lamp is supposed to go.

That would be some serious chaffing.....................

JimP

07-07-06, 04:24 PM

MotorMouth,

Sony should consider offering you "try out" sets to see how they perform.

I thought I watched a lot of TV. You've got me beat. lol

MotorMouth777

07-08-06, 11:59 PM

I am drawn to my set like a moth to a flame....................... That or its Video Crack..............

kaduku

07-10-06, 01:39 PM

Today I've studied Penton-Mans exit here and in the Blu-ray forum. Anyone can understand his sense of loss with his father, so I offer my condolences too.

I am not a psychiatrist but reading his defense of the Blu-ray failure is most fascinating. What an extreme apologist brand loyalist type of thinking. It appears as if he tied the two heterogeneous subjects together. Lastly even attacking the moderators. This is not good.
Based upon this limited evidence I understand why Penton-Man had to leave AVS forum. His spiritual needs are not going to be met here.

Note: after I signed-in I saw that “This user is on your Ignore List.”. What a weird day.

You haven't change at all you freakin troll! Who let your sorry a** out of the cage!

PM hope you see this, haven't been around and after this post, I may get kicked outta here, but who f*#%kin cares, I still have my beautiful Qualia 006 and my pre-order of the Sony BDP-S1 coming hopefully in October. My condolences to you. My father was a great man too and it was hard for me to see him go through his illness before he died. Peace be with you brother man!

Penton-Man

07-10-06, 05:40 PM

Thanks Kaduku. I did see the above, as I’ve slipped in a couple of times to AVS just to check my inbox for PM’s from people from other threads that don’t follow our 006 thread and don’t realize that I’m on sabbatical…..at the same time posting a couple of tidbits on other threads.

Joel - I answered the "What happened?" in a PM to jb007. So ask him to forward it to you if you never received it from him. I already deleted the answer from my mailbox.

kaduku

07-10-06, 05:53 PM

thesirjay

07-10-06, 06:05 PM

Good to see the Penton Man is alive and kicking and hasn't abandoned his group of friends. Everyone needs a vacation now and then just sorry that things in the forums have been a source of stress for you. You have contributed a lot to all of our Q owning experiences (I know you helped me to swing the wife on that insane price tag :) ). Have a good one man and I hope things go as well as possible in the rest of your life.

thesirjay

07-10-06, 06:08 PM

Anyone have an inexpensive solution to the only 2 HDMI in jacks? I am beginning to be quite chagrined that I have to go with only 2 out of my 3 HDMI devices at a time (computer, cable box, hd-dvd player). God help me when I end up with the PS3 and yet ANOTHER darn HDMI cable that I have to crawl behind the Q in order to plug in (not to mention I like a bit different settings depending on the source and that obviously doesn't work well with "hot swapping" but at least if they are all hooked in I can merely do menu adjustments and skip the squeeze). I know previously the answer has always involved a real outlay of cash hope someone has come up with a cheaper option.

kaduku

07-10-06, 06:32 PM

kanebear

07-11-06, 11:46 AM

Neo2005

07-11-06, 08:31 PM

Well ........ I see there has been some activity since I last checked in (pre_INDY F1) now I just have to hope that you Penton-Man check back in and allow me to express my sympathies and apologies for not stopping by sooner. I sincerely hope that you and your family find a way to get through the pain and heal soon. Remember the things that mattered most to your Dad were the love of his family and your love for each other in return. Stay close to those that matter and keep well his memory.

Don

thesirjay

07-12-06, 12:49 PM

Penton-Man

07-12-06, 07:39 PM

thesirjay-

I opted for the Yamaha RX-V4600 (2 HDMI ins and 1 out) after I decided to sell my MUCH more expensive non-HDMI receiver on e-bay for a good price. I felt that my “vintage” receiver was losing value over time faster than water flowing down our kitchen sink (it flows fast!).

I couldn’t be happier. It has two HDMI inputs as I mentioned, will allow me to take advantage of the BEST possible sound offered by current HD DVD player offerings and upcoming 1st gen Blu-ray players --if I break down and can’t wait for 2nd gen stuff.

I also consider it to be far from “breaking the bank” for a typical Qualian and best of all….umr has one in his home theater. ;)

People, I may be returning sooner and more often than I expected as a new thread just opened which is WELL worth reading and appears to finally be a bash-free zone set up by mods markrubin and Ken H.

See…….
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=697036&page=1&pp=30

ManWithAPlan

07-12-06, 11:40 PM

Any good advice on a receiver that handles hdmi in? One with say 4 inputs would be lovely and 2 outputs :) (although I could live with 1). Trying to avoid breaking the bank although I do want it to be 7.1 of course (I have been using 6.1 for ages with a spare speaker sitting around until I could justify the receiver upgrade). Thanks all for your input I appreciate it.

UMR is very happy with his Yamaha receiver indeed, and I say more power to him! As an alternative, and since you asked, I am using an Anthem D2 to route all video/audio sources, and provides multizone switching for my whole house system, etc. My only connection to the Qualia is a single run of HDMI from the D2. So, the D2 is extremely good sounding, upsampling all audio, including DTS and DD, to 192khz/24bit...It slices, it dices, but the important things to note for this topic are:

1) 4 HDMI inputs, 1 output
2) Built in Gennum video processor/scaler/deinterlacer of all sources, outputing any rez on earth practically up to 1080p (I use 1080i/60HZ for the Qualia for now)
3) Unique video processing settings for each source
4) OSD at any rez over HDMI (up to 1080p) or component (up to 1080i).
5) Multichannel PCM audio via HDMI 1.1, allowing perfect usage of things like DVD-Audio, or HD-DVD and BluRay, should my current video bliss not be enough for me :-)

To say I am happy with my purchase would be a MAJOR understatement...I am still trying to work Sony now to allow a 1080p input on the Qualia, so I can take *full* advantage of the Gennum chip inside the D2! I will not give up, no matter how unlikely it is :-)

PM, by the way, I lost my father when I was at the ripe age of 25...my condolences indeed...not a day goes by that I don't think of the times I missed out on with him, now that I have a little more brains and a lot less rebelliousness :-)
Be proud and never ever forget all the great times you had with him, those are wonderful memories that can never fade away. Again, my heartfelt condolences, it is very hard I think at any age...he sounds like a tremendous human being.

Best Regards,
-Brian