That's a question none of us really know the answer to, since Sony hasn't disclosed why the optical blocks are failing. There has been speculation it's related to heat and/or dust. If this is true, then an OB sitting on the shelf should not go bad. However, if it's related to the drying out of parts included in the OB, then who knows. :eek:

Probably not due to humidity. My first OB never saw anything less than 40% humidity with 55% or more being the norm - Florida (and lousy AC, since replaced). Probably not dust either since mine was low dust (as commented by the last repair person), no pets, no kids. Could be temperature since my house runs about 78 during the summer, but then the repair guy mentioned it seemed to be regional (maybe number of hours above a certain temperature meaning higher temperatures and longer viewing times???). Who knows (but I would like to). I can't seem to get more than 2500 hours out of a block, and some here have mentioned over 4000?

Probably not due to humidity. My first OB never saw anything less than 40% humidity with 55% or more being the norm - Florida (and lousy AC, since replaced). Probably not dust either since mine was low dust (as commented by the last repair person), no pets, no kids. Could be temperature since my house runs about 78 during the summer, but then the repair guy mentioned it seemed to be regional (maybe number of hours above a certain temperature meaning higher temperatures and longer viewing times???). Who knows (but I would like to). I can't seem to get more than 2500 hours out of a block, and some here have mentioned over 4000?

out of a block or out of a lamp?

out of a block or out of a lamp?

LOL - Block. Lamps are running me around 2000 hours :D

LOL - Block. Lamps are running me around 2000 hours :D

crap, that is VERY bad...i don't think i could/would put up with that...

it's almost as if the lamp failure is what is causing the block to fail...

BTW, i may have to scratch my upgrade itch this holiday season in light of the deal amazon is running right now...i may pick up the panny bd-55...

anyone else getting themselves any new toys for the holidays?

[EDIT: OOPS, scratch that, the deal seems to have expired since yesterday...damn]

I haven't visited this thread since the early days when I first got my 006. I noticed the center of my screen beginning to get a green tinge and came back to see if other are seeing the same thing. It looks to be an epidemic. It reminds me of the Toshiba LCOS fiasco. Sony should take note and do as Toshiba did. I had my Toshiba LCOS for over a year and Toshiba refunded me the full price ($6500) and even removed the 300 lb set from my house. Sony might just lose another customer over this.

Good your back and even better your feeling good.

Do you know about the legal action being started and what step you might take in regards to the defective Qualia OBs ?

Thanks for the good thoughts. I do know about the legal action, but what steps do I need to take?

Just had the OB replaced in my Q last Saturday and the XL5000 lamp just failed last night with only 250 hrs on it, I wounding if it had anything to with service tech pulling the lamp when he was replacing the OB, the lamp was installed in October. The service guy did not turn the Q on and off but once, the lamp looks fine and the picture did not darken like the other lamps, I installed an old lamp that I had and it fired right up.

Just had the OB replaced in my Q last Saturday and the XL5000 lamp just failed last night with only 250 hrs on it, I wounding if it had anything to with service tech pulling the lamp when he was replacing the OB, the lamp was installed in October. The service guy did not turn the Q on and off but once, the lamp looks fine and the picture did not darken like the other lamps, I installed an old lamp that I had and it fired right up.

I would think that unless they dropped the lamp module it would not affect it. I have had my lamp module out both times the OB was replaced (plus replaced the lamp twice with no issues). The only other thing I know of that can affect the lamp is turning it back on too soon after you turn it off. Probably just bad luck?

I would think that unless they dropped the lamp module it would not affect it. I have had my lamp module out both times the OB was replaced (plus replaced the lamp twice with no issues). The only other thing I know of that can affect the lamp is turning it back on too soon after you turn it off. Probably just bad luck?

Yes I agree, I think it’s just bad luck with this lamp. It worked fine for four days before it just stopped working; I have a new one on the way.:cool:

Thanks for the good thoughts. I do know about the legal action, but what steps do I need to take?

Re: Class Action Suit I have a power of attorney for anyone who wishes to join as a party to the suit. Send me an e-mail to Ted Ankrum: ankrum@sbcglobal.net and I will reply with the POA as an attachment.

Send an email to the above and then download the PDF. It explains everything.

Send an email to the above and then download the PDF. It explains everything.
The lawyers have decided to have first contact with potential plaintiffs, which is good as far as I am concerned. I'm not a lawyer and people were asking me legal questions, when I was just serving as an information conduit after finding the attorneys that were interested in taking the case. They prefer to do business by telephone. Joe House and Mark Wham at 1-800-621-3362. You may find it useful to arrange a mutually convienent time to call by e-mail at joe@houseperron.com. I, and others, have signed a power of Attorney for them to file a suit.

I must admit given the current economic climate and the cutbacks Sony and everyone else is doing that it seems to be working against Sony "doing the right thing" or if they can help it doing anything at all. Their take it or leave it negotiations where they gave up a refurb with only 90 day warranty (which was probably less than the warranty on the original set left) make me a bit disheartened that anything short of a good lawsuit will have us taken care of. Think about it... a refurb means someone managed to stick them with a return and they aren't likely to ever have sold this - so total cost to Sony = shipping plus repair. If thats the best they can do (with basically no warranty) for those of us who spent over 10k and even purchased extended warranties in many cases then clearly Sony has given up on us.

Ted99 - Thanks for all the legwork (just shot you an email for the pdf).

Friends,

I'm afraid a lawsuit may be premature at this time. Since Sony extended the warranty until 6/30/10, the case is not "ripe."

We all certainly hope Sony will step up and relieve our fears at some point prior to summer 2010, but I don't know if a lawsuit is viable until someone's OB fails and Sony refuses repair without payment. :(

Update on the potential class action suit The lawyers are continuing to collect Powers of Attorney from other parties to the suit. I posted their contact details, earlier; so it is not necessary for anyone to contact me first. As of now, I forwarded the names of eight people other than myself to the lawyers. I would expect that I won't know about any new ones, since all contacts are going directly to the lawyers, now.

People have asked why a lawsuit and I believe that this thread had amply discussed why we feel wronged. We also know that individual lawsuits are not cost effective, so that is why the "Class Action". I have been a passive member of a "class" in a number of other settlements--usually in things that I didn't care much about (like the 1080P settlement--I knew it didn't display 1080P). When I read the settlements, I saw that the original named plaintiffs in the case got cash settlements, while the larger group of "passive" members of the class got coupons good for a discount on future purchases from the vendor. That's why I'm happy to be a named plaintiff--I don't want any stinking coupons.

Friends,

I'm afraid a lawsuit may be premature at this time. Since Sony extended the warranty until 6/30/10, the case is not "ripe."

We all certainly hope Sony will step up and relieve our fears at some point prior to summer 2010, but I don't know if a lawsuit is viable until someone's OB fails and Sony refuses repair without payment. :(

I'm not a lawyer, so I will leave the decision on this to the lawyers planning the class action. Since Sony is reading this thread, I don't think we should be giving them any straws to hold on to. As an Engineer, I would argue that since Sony has extended the warranty, they have admitted a technical fault. If the OB's have not been redesigned, any of us receiving a replacement OB are damaged because the sets will fail again after the expiration of the extended warranty and we will not have benefit of the expected life of these premium sets. Since Sony will not say that the OB's have been redesigned, I assume that they have not. This can be revealed in discovery during a lawsuit, or by technical examination of pre and post replacement OB's--anybody know a good technical expert to do this examination? The lawyers said they could buy pre and post replacement sets for technical examination.If Sony wanted to take a preemptive route short of buyback, they could guarrantee the indefinite availability of OB replacements and an indefinite extention of the warranty on the OB. That would put us in a situation in which we suffer no harm.

I'm not a lawyer, so I will leave the decision on this to the lawyers planning the class action. Since Sony is reading this thread, I don't think we should be giving them any straws to hold on to. As an Engineer, I would argue that since Sony has extended the warranty, they have admitted a technical fault. If the OB's have not been redesigned, any of us receiving a replacement OB are damaged because the sets will fail again after the expiration of the extended warranty and we will not have benefit of the expected life of these premium sets. Since Sony will not say that the OB's have been redesigned, I assume that they have not. This can be revealed in discovery during a lawsuit, or by technical examination of pre and post replacement OB's--anybody know a good technical expert to do this examination? The lawyers said they could buy pre and post replacement sets for technical examination.If Sony wanted to take a preemptive route short of buyback, they could guarrantee the indefinite availability of OB replacements and an indefinite extention of the warranty on the OB. That would put us in a situation in which we suffer no harm.

Also, the date that they will "replace" the OB seems not to matter much as they made a "take it or leave it" offer and forced someone to accept a Q006 in exchange for his own!

Also, the date that they will "replace" the OB seems not to matter much as they made a "take it or leave it" offer and forced someone to accept a Q006 in exchange for his own!

And most important no extended warranty. 90 day warranty take it or leave it.

What happens when that OB malfunctions as it surely will ?

Believe me, I'm on your side, so please don't shoot the messenger. As has been posted frequently over the last year or so, Sony should step up and make Qualia owners happy for many different reasons. We were told we were paying an incredible premium to own the best of the best. Sony clearly has a design defect in its SXRD optical blocks.

The take it or leave it 90 warranty is a related, but different issue. It's most likely not part of the class, for lawsuit purposes. In that instance, the OB had been replaced four times and the owner was not happy. That's when Sony gave him the 3 different options.

I'm not providing legal advice, just my opinion. The law does not provide for anticipatory failure. Sony has in-house counsel and outside counsel consisting of the biggest law firms in the world on retainer. They are not going to learn of any potential defenses from my postings, they wouldn't already come up with on their own. My intent is for Q006 owners to be realistic in our hopes -- at this point in time.

IMHO, a class-action lawsuit for the failure of our televisions is not feasible until after we have suffered damages and that may not occur until after 6/30/10. At that time, Sony may try to make the claim that 5.5 years of life out of the TV is all that should be expected. This argument will fail because of how Sony positioned the Qualia line. Hopefully, sometime between now and the time someone's OB fails after 6/30/10, Sony will get it and do the right thing by making us all whole again.

Good points, jb007. I hope you are wrong. I'm sure those Sony lawyers are not cheap; so I don't understand why Sony is blackening it's formerly good name over so few sets. Or, if they have corrected the OB design problem, why they just don't say so. If any of us have an introit to the press, we need to get publicity on this once the Class action suit is filed. "Another formerly fine corporation sacrificed to the short term return gods--only this time it's a Japanese corporation, led by a Brit screwing American consumers".

Can someone suggest a tool to use to remove the bolts that attach the lower front panel (permitting access to change the bulb)? I can't get a coin into the slot or grip the darn things with any tools that I have. The repair guy who replaced my OB tightened them too much. The bolts are in a really tough spot to reach. Appreciate any tips. Thanks much!

Can someone suggest a tool to use to remove the bolts that attach the lower front panel (permitting access to change the bulb)? I can't get a coin into the slot or grip the darn things with any tools that I have. The repair guy who replaced my OB tightened them too much. The bolts are in a really tough spot to reach. Appreciate any tips. Thanks much!

I have used a offset slotted screwdriver.

I have used a offset slotted screwdriver.

Thanks very much for the tip!

It is winter's shortest day, and now, with each passing day, more sunlight.
It is a time to wish all on this thread best wishes for the new year.
Dave

It is winter's shortest day, and now, with each passing day, more sunlight.
It is a time to wish all on this thread best wishes for the new year.
Dave

Dave,
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and the rest of tht Forum:)

It is winter's shortest day, and now, with each passing day, more sunlight.
It is a time to wish all on this thread best wishes for the new year.
Dave

Yes, I also want to thank everyone here for all the help over the year(s) and wish all of you a happy Holiday...in a very PC way. :)

Dave, too.

i wonder if Zechman had his OB swapped out?

Nope. I'm on my third lamp, and the TV is still in the living room, still getting daily use. (First one just dimmed, second one just went POP!) The, um, "window treatment" is still there, too. ;)

Near as my eyes can tell (which admittedly are not expert), the picture hasn't degraded at all. Biggest issue I have is that I often get a weird colors-ridiculously-wrong effect from my PS3 going via HDMI through my Sony STR-DA5300ES receiver.

...and you guys are scaring the bejezzuzz out of me with all this OB talk.

But on a lighter note, I did want to take a break from the Rock Band boards to poke my nose in here again and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and very soon a Happy Qualia Day!

--Dwayne

The, um, "window treatment" is still there, too. ;)

--Dwayne


The COOLEST "window treatment" ever :D


http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f200/divedude/Zechmanglarereduction.jpg

I did want to take a break from the Rock Band boards to poke my nose in here again and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and very soon a Happy Qualia Day!

--Dwayne

A Merry Xmas to you as well... whats this about Rock Band boards? I just picked up Rock Band 2 for my PS3 :). I wonder if anyone else here is playing around with such things. A Q online band would be an amusing experiment if so.

Merry Xmas all and take care.

The COOLEST "window treatment" ever :D


http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f200/divedude/Zechmanglarereduction.jpg

You must have recovered that from the Qualia archives.

I never noticed that the white lettering matched the drapes so well.

So I guess if Jessica Simpson saw that picture she'd say, "What's a goo ailauq?"

This Christmas many of my friends bought their first HDTV, all Samsungs. Hmmmm.

Next year, many more will also buy either their first HDTV, or after living with this year's model, another one or an upgrade. Depending on what the year brings, perhaps they'll get Sonys. Hint, hint.

This Christmas many of my friends bought their first HDTV, all Samsungs. Hmmmm.

Next year, many more will also buy either their first HDTV, or after living with this year's model, another one or an upgrade. Depending on what the year brings, perhaps they'll get Sonys. Hint, hint.

+1

December's score here in my little neck of the woods -

Samsungs - 3
Pio Kuro - 1
Sony Bravia - 1 (Circuit City giving them away)

Merry Christmas to all! Amazing this thread still chugs along so well.

Ron

Mini Dive, or Mini Santa as he likes to be called this time of year, gave me a Christmas present. Not exactly what I have been dreaming about, but something I needed after the one in the Master Bath developed a unrepairable leak :eek:

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all :)

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f200/divedude/MiniDiveChristmasPresent2008.jpg

Mini Dive, or Mini Santa as he likes to be called this time of year, gave me a Christmas present. Not exactly what I have been dreaming about, but something I needed after the one in the Master Bath developed a unrepairable leak :eek:

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all :)

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f200/divedude/MiniDiveChristmasPresent2008.jpg

Be careful not to flush our friend Mini Dive down the drain when your testing the installation of your new fixture.

Be careful not to flush our friend Mini Dive down the drain when your testing the installation of your new fixture.

MiniDive has his snorkel ready. If there's an accident, he'll swim right out :p

MiniDive has his snorkel ready. If there's an accident, he'll swim right out :p

I can hear Mini now trying to swim upstream against the current holding his nose.

Be careful not to flush our friend Mini Dive down the drain when your testing the installation of your new fixture.

Mini Dive hooked up a safety line and took a spin during the flush. It made him very dizzy, but he said it was fun ;)

:eek:

i poke my head in here and am greeted with a picture of a toilet bowl...this immediately made me nervous given the OB issues of late :)

Merry Christmas!!!

:eek:

i poke my head in here and am greeted with a picture of a toilet bowl...this immediately made me nervous given the OB issues of late :)

Merry Christmas!!!

This is Sony's new exchange offer for disgruntled SXRD owners...

Mini Dive, or Mini Santa as he likes to be called this time of year, gave me a Christmas present. Not exactly what I have been dreaming about, but something I needed after the one in the Master Bath developed a unrepairable leak :eek:

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all :)

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f200/divedude/MiniDiveChristmasPresent2008.jpg

Tell Mini not to skimp on his gifts to you. This is the Qualia of toilets (http://gizmodo.com/5119681/totos-intelligence-toilet-ii-smartly-measures-the-temperature-of-your-pee-among-other-things).

P.S. Bonus, there have been no reports of failing optical blocks. :p

It was four years ago today that I placed my order for the Q006 at the Las Vegas store. Even more impressive than the wonderful picture (taking into account our OB issues) is the vitality of this thread.

Thanks to all those who contribute their knowledge, expertise and humor. Happy New Year to all! :)

Hi:
Does anyone know when the remastered blu ray of LoA is due out?
Thanks, and a Happy New Year to all on this forum. The Best!
Dave

Tell Mini not to skimp on his gifts to you. This is the Qualia of toilets (http://gizmodo.com/5119681/totos-intelligence-toilet-ii-smartly-measures-the-temperature-of-your-pee-among-other-things).

P.S. Bonus, there have been no reports of failing optical blocks. :p

The claim to fame my new toilet has it that it can flush a bucket of golf balls. The hard part is passing that bucket of golf balls :eek:

The claim to fame my new toilet has it that it can flush a bucket of golf balls. The hard part is passing that bucket of golf balls :eek:


...but have you noticed any color blotches yet in the toilet and did you get an extended warranty?

...but have you noticed any color blotches yet in the toilet and did you get an extended warranty?

It actually has a coating to prevent stains and it comes with a 10 year warranty. Maybe Sony should take note :rolleyes:

With all of the talk of divedude's new toilet, does any care what new fun car I just bought? For awhile, we had quite the discussion going about cars and racing, many lamps and OBs ago.

Yeah, sofer, what did you get??? I am waiting for the April release of the new turbo diesel Audi Q7, then I think i'm taking the plunge! 33 MPG and 425 lbs/feet of torque, good stuff indeed!

With all of the talk of divedude's new toilet, does any care what new fun car I just bought? For awhile, we had quite the discussion going about cars and racing, many lamps and OBs ago.

Probably one of the four I lust for:

Nissan GT-R
Corvette ZR-1
Audi R8 V12 TDI
Fisker Karma

Probably one of the four I lust for:

Nissan GT-R
Corvette ZR-1
Audi R8 V12 TDI
Fisker Karma


Yea, but I like the Cherman cars, so I bought a Loaded SLK55
AMG boosted the output to 401hp Dyno'd -
Am looking at the SL65 AMG

-editor

BTW, on topic, My 006 eats a lot of Lamps, but my OB seems to be perfect.

How do I get to the hours meter?? Anyone have the codes to get into the service menues and service info??

Thanks in advance- Rob

Yeah, sofer, what did you get??? I am waiting for the April release of the new turbo diesel Audi Q7, then I think i'm taking the plunge! 33 MPG and 425 lbs/feet of torque, good stuff indeed!

I have an A6 2.7T and it sure is fun, but yours will be better!

Yea, but I like the Cherman cars, so I bought a Loaded SLK55
AMG boosted the output to 401hp Dyno'd -
Am looking at the SL65 AMG

-editor

BTW, on topic, My 006 eats a lot of Lamps, but my OB seems to be perfect.

How do I get to the hours meter?? Anyone have the codes to get into the service menues and service info??

Thanks in advance- Rob

Hi...it has been a while!

Anyway, check the first post as it shows how to check and/or reset the lamp hours.

It actually has a coating to prevent stains and it comes with a 10 year warranty. Maybe Sony should take note :rolleyes:

Do you know if Sony can buy any of that coating? :D

OH, I put in DVE yesterday and I see my greyscale is VERY bad. Will adjust soon.

Yea, but I like the Cherman cars, so I bought a Loaded SLK55
AMG boosted the output to 401hp Dyno'd -
Am looking at the SL65 AMG

-editor

BTW, on topic, My 006 eats a lot of Lamps, but my OB seems to be perfect.

How do I get to the hours meter?? Anyone have the codes to get into the service menues and service info??

Thanks in advance- Rob

Go here : Official Sony Protocol for Lamp Timer and Resetting (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6779958&&#post6779958)

To prolong the lamp life:

You should be using the PRO setting not Vivid
The lamp should be on Low Power
The Qualia should be set for Hi Altitude

You should refrain from turning the set off and on without waiting several minutes between doing the off and on cycle.

I think Qualia users are reporting getting 3000 to 5000 hours
I have about nearly 9,000 + hours and I am on the second bulb.

I have an A7 2.7T and it sure is fun, but yours will be better!

Very nice! I have a 2.7T currently as well, in the old A6 frame, and you're right, fun as hell, but its an old 2002 model I got used a few years ago, so looking forward to the fresh new interior with new factory nav, bluetooth/Bang and Olufsen audio, etc. etc. Nothing like the well-designed interiors of the Audi's - ya gotta admit, no matter what else you think of them, they know how to build a sexy, clean, smart interior...now, the R8, well now, that's a different discussion, dear Jesus yes! Damn near perfection on 4 wheels.

Cheers all! Oh, and Happy New Year everyone!

-Brian

Very nice! I have a 2.7T currently as well, in the old A6 frame, and you're right, fun as hell, but its an old 2002 model I got used a few years ago, so looking forward to the fresh new interior with new factory nav, bluetooth/Bang and Olufsen audio, etc. etc. Nothing like the well-designed interiors of the Audi's - ya gotta admit, no matter what else you think of them, they know how to build a sexy, clean, smart interior...now, the R8, well now, that's a different discussion, dear Jesus yes! Damn near perfection on 4 wheels.

Cheers all! Oh, and Happy New Year everyone!

-Brian

The A7 was a typo of course...I have an A6. R8! I want one but do not need one. I wish my Stereo was better. It is the Bose, but the low end could be better!

It ain't sexy but I cruise around in my A8L. I am on my third and when the lease is over this summer I will buy one. Though tight it fits my three kids in the back seat (one full car seat and a booster). I like the width.

R8? - nah, I want to stay married.

My Q eats lamps for breakfast! Never checked the meter but I switch out every 7 months with what should be between 1500-1800 hours. Picture gets very dark but I switch before it pops. When my first one popped I either pissed or farted (you get the idea:cool: ).

My not so newly replaced OB still delivers an amazing picture.

OK, here it is . . . .

2008 Dodge Viper, Venom Red, white stripes. I can't really have fun until I put 500 miles on it, but for now just figuring out how to start it and what all the little buttons mean is keeping me busy. I've been driving SUVs and trucks for almost 20 years, and MY WIFE wanted me to get this thing. She must be up to something.

Thanks for asking.

OK, here it is . . . .

2008 Dodge Viper, Venom Red, white stripes. I can't really have fun until I put 500 miles on it, but for now just figuring out how to start it and what all the little buttons mean is keeping me busy. I've been driving SUVs and trucks for almost 20 years, and MY WIFE wanted me to get this thing. She must be up to something.

Thanks for asking.

Very cool :) Keep an eye out for the roadside cops. My C6 Vette is red and attracts a lot of looks from the radar / laser guns.

OH, I put in DVE yesterday and I see my greyscale is VERY bad. Will adjust soon.

Let us know how your adjustments work and good luck !

Happy New Year all...i've been quite busy.

kids got a puppy for christmas and this has proved to be more work and more tiresome than my own children were!

my kids each got panasonic 32" 1080p LCDs as well...could have been sony but...

sticking with panasonic, i picked up the bd55 after all...couldn't resist...the two panny lcd sets and the bd55 i got from 6ave which recently opened up a store about a 1/4 mi. from my home...always a dangerous event for me, a new electronics store :)

got a letter from sony a few days ago stating basically what sony posted here some time ago about the warranty being extended to 2010 on the OB...wording was slightly different but the same content.

my wife's ride comes off lease soon and i'm contemplating the audi q7 but may go with the new bmw suv, not sure. i've had audi cars since 1998 and love them.

I have not posted to this thread since the early days after getting my Q (March 2005) and checked in randomly a few days ago. It was great to see the thread still going. I was disappointed to see the seemingly inherent flaw in the OB and Sony's underwhelming response. My set has not yet shown any signs of a failing OB. I've done my best to get up to speed on the issue by reading the old posts, but was hoping someone could help me with the following questions:

1. A few of you have mentioned a memory stick screen test that could show signs of an OB problem. How exactly do you run that test? Is there a test you can run without a memory stick?

2. Has Sony determined the root cause of the OB failure and fixed it with the new OB? I think the answer to this is no and no one knows yet, but want to make sure

3. Any suggestions on alternative 70" sets that have a picture quality as good as the Q006 (a front projector is not an option for me)? I have no interest in replacing my Q, but curious if anyone has seen any sets that are comparable. I know Sony released a 70" LCD, but I have yet to see the picture or read a review.

I have not posted to this thread since the early days after getting my Q (March 2005) and checked in randomly a few days ago. It was great to see the thread still going. I was disappointed to see the seemingly inherent flaw in the OB and Sony's underwhelming response. My set has not yet shown any signs of a failing OB. I've done my best to get up to speed on the issue by reading the old posts, but was hoping someone could help me with the following questions:

1. A few of you have mentioned a memory stick screen test that could show signs of an OB problem. How exactly do you run that test? Is there a test you can run without a memory stick?

2. Has Sony determined the root cause of the OB failure and fixed it with the new OB? I think the answer to this is no and no one knows yet, but want to make sure

3. Any suggestions on alternative 70" sets that have a picture quality as good as the Q006 (a front projector is not an option for me)? I have no interest in replacing my Q, but curious if anyone has seen any sets that are comparable. I know Sony released a 70" LCD, but I have yet to see the picture or read a review.

I'll dive in first (Watchout Mini-Dive) and anyone with more or better information can correct me.

1. You don't need a memory stick for the test. Check the all white screen that results without a memory stick for any discoloration.
2. We are sure Sony knows what is happening to the OB. Replacement is the only correction. What is unknown and not being reported by Sony is whether
the new OB currently supplied is updated to correct the problem. There is now an extension to "qualified" owners of the Qualia 006 warranty to 2010.

3. The 70" Mitsubishi Laser and the 70" LCD Sony are the only sets I know of currently. The 70" Mitsubishi Laser has not been reviewed the 60" has received outstanding reviews. The Sony has not yet been seen and cost big $$$. Would one take a chance on another high cost low production Sony TV?

Sony is somewhat like GM. If the question is a new better design or replace it with the old cheaper design. Use the old design and eventually the owner will trade it and we no longer have any responsibility.

thestewman - thanks for the response. sorry if I am being dense, but how do I get the all white screen?

thestewman - thanks for the response. sorry if I am being dense, but how do I get the all white screen?

Turn on the Qualia TV

With no memory stick inserted using the Qualia remote control select the Photo Display/Play Function

You should see an all white screen without color splotches or discolored areas
Any discoloration is evidence of an OB problem developing

It actually has a coating to prevent stains and it comes with a 10 year warranty. Maybe Sony should take note :rolleyes:

Not to get too far off topic here, but if you Google for information or check home improvement boards you'll find that the American Standard Champion is actually very poorly thought of due to the design of its flush tower.

Lots of leaks and the only way to get replacement parts under warranty is for AS to send them to you while your toilet is out of commission for a week or two, and the replacement also inevitably starts failing in the same way.

Neat technology, but an awful lot of people who bought Champions have since replaced them with something else, usually a Toto.

Turn on the Qualia TV

With no memory stick inserted using the Qualia remote control select the Photo Display/Play Function

You should see an all white screen without color splotches or discolored areas
Any discoloration is evidence of an OB problem developing

thestewman,

My memory stick screen is gray so I think you mean "all gray screen" not "all white screen". Mine is actually several shades of gray with a large, slight green oval and this is a brand new OB; my forth since September 08. Screen uniformity has actually improved slightly since the new OB was installed a few weeks ago. I was initially seeing a more pronounced green oval.

Sony shipped a refurbished Qualia 006 to a local trucking company for delivery to me but according to the trucking company the set is damaged. There is a finger sized melt area just below the screen. They also informed me that the shipping box was all beat up. Needless to say I am not accepting the refurbished set.

thestewman,

My memory stick screen is gray so I think you mean "all gray screen" not "all white screen". Mine is actually several shades of gray with a large, slight green oval and this is a brand new OB; my forth since September 08. Screen uniformity has actually improved slightly since the new OB was installed a few weeks ago. I was initially seeing a more pronounced green oval.

Sony shipped a refurbished Qualia 006 to a local trucking company for delivery to me but according to the trucking company the set is damaged. There is a finger sized melt area just below the screen. They also informed me that the shipping box was all beat up. Needless to say I am not accepting the refurbished set.

Yes, The screen is all gray. Mine is the same over the entire viewing area. No "GREEN " discoloration anywhere.
Sounds like the shipping company is going to eat that Qualia since they accepted it. Wonder how the screen got melted ???

:eek::eek::eek:Saw this is a bad omen today.
:
Sony may announce drastic cost cuts:
The maker of Bravia flat TVs and PlayStation video game consoles faces halting sales and mounting piles of inventory in the wake of the financial crisis, even as a stronger yen bites into earnings.

Not to get too far off topic here, but if you Google for information or check home improvement boards you'll find that the American Standard Champion is actually very poorly thought of due to the design of its flush tower.

Lots of leaks and the only way to get replacement parts under warranty is for AS to send them to you while your toilet is out of commission for a week or two, and the replacement also inevitably starts failing in the same way.

Neat technology, but an awful lot of people who bought Champions have since replaced them with something else, usually a Toto.


I just saw your hometown listed! I bet many have never been there. I used to work there. OH, is the coal fire finally out? I seem to remember it had been burning for years!

I just called and they still have the recording that it will be settled by Nov. 3, 2008. Has anyone heard any more?

I have an A6 2.7T and it sure is fun, but yours will be better!

I have an 04 A6 2.7t S-Line - a very limited edition version with a special engine - someday I may get brave and change the manifold to give it proper air flow (they gutted its HP when they brought it to the US but simply allowing it proper airflow is supposed to shoot its HP way up).

Now here is something else to drool over :cool:

Drool (http://www.electronichouse.com/article/harmony_1100_has_customizable_touchscreen/C157)

Very cool :) Keep an eye out for the roadside cops. My C6 Vette is red and attracts a lot of looks from the radar / laser guns.

Exactly. After owning two Ferrari's, C4 Corvette, Porsche 911, and a Red SLK 350, I've learned. My white BMW 540i never attracted attention. So, I'm ordering a 2010 AMG C63. Nothing like 4 doors and "not red or yellow" car to fly under the radar gun.

Nice rides, guys. The Viper is my first performance car since the muscle car era Dodge Challenger I had. Once I saw Vanishing Point (coming out in Blu-ray!) that did it, and I've been a Mopar guy since. I won't clog up the thread with more OT car topic, unless you want me to post a picture or something. I remember seeing divedude's red Corvette, which I still maintain, dollar for dollar, is the best performance car in the world.

Nice rides, guys. The Viper is my first performance car since the muscle car era Dodge Challenger I had. Once I saw Vanishing Point (coming out in Blu-ray!) that did it, and I've been a Mopar guy since. I won't clog up the thread with more OT car topic, unless you want me to post a picture or something. I remember seeing divedude's red Corvette, which I still maintain, dollar for dollar, is the best performance car in the world.

I would like to see a picture.

Update #3:

I have decided to go with Option #2 and swap my set for a factory refurbished Qualia 006. Sony told me that Option #2 would be permanently withdrawn if I wanted them to try repairing my current set again. I'm crossing my fingers that I don't end up worse off.

Update #4: The saga continues.

The refurbished Qualia 006 that I was supposed to receive was damaged. According to the local trucking company that was going to deliver it to me; the set had a finger tip sized melt area just below the screen. I was also told that the shipping box was really beat up. I was not going to accept damaged goods so I asked Sony to swap the Qualia 006 for one of their projectors (VPL-VW70, VPL-VW60 or VPL-HW10). The best offer was for the VPL-VW60. They will provide me with a new VPL-VW60 if I give them my 3-year old Qualia 006 and an additional $840.00. I will also have to purchase a screen and projector mount.

If I don't make the exchange I will be stuck with a 3-year old Qualia 006 out of warranty that I have absolutely no confidence in.

divedude,

OK, let's see if I can post a picture. I realize this isn't string theory, but . . . http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo304/joedud/093-1.jpg[/IMG]

Update #4: The saga continues.

The refurbished Qualia 006 that I was supposed to receive was damaged. According to the local trucking company that was going to deliver it to me; the set had a finger tip sized melt area just below the screen. I was also told that the shipping box was really beat up. I was not going to accept damaged goods so I asked Sony to swap the Qualia 006 for one of their projectors (VPL-VW70, VPL-VW60 or VPL-HW10). The best offer was for the VPL-VW60. They will provide me with a new VPL-VW60 if I give them my 3-year old Qualia 006 and an additional $840.00. I will also have to purchase a screen and projector mount.

If I don't make the exchange I will be stuck with a 3-year old Qualia 006 out of warranty that I have absolutely no confidence in.

Um so the set is damaged in transit - doesn't that mean that the shipping company has to pay you out its "value" or if its between them and Sony shouldn't you still be entitled to the set they promised? I can understand not feeling wonderful about giving them another try but was that the only refurb 006 they had? Just a thought but if you want to save a bit of cash while swapping to a projector perhaps a refurb might be available?

Um so the set is damaged in transit - doesn't that mean that the shipping company has to pay you out its "value" or if its between them and Sony shouldn't you still be entitled to the set they promised? I can understand not feeling wonderful about giving them another try but was that the only refurb 006 they had? Just a thought but if you want to save a bit of cash while swapping to a projector perhaps a refurb might be available?

thesirjay

I don't think the Qualia was damaged in transit. I think the "melt" spot was there before it shipped but that is just my guess. I had the local shipping company remove the shipping box to inspect the set at their warehouse after they informed me how beat up the box was. That was when they noticed the melt spot. There was no apparent damage caused during shipping.

Apparently there is no other refurbished Qualia 006 currently available. I could wait for one to become available but do I really want to take the chance that set will not fail after a couple of months. I'm also tired of dealing with this issue. I initially reported the issue to Sony back in September 08.

On the plus side I would be getting a $4999.99 projector for $840.00. I paid approximately $10K for the Qualia 006 so it's hard to determine the value of this swap.

thesirjay

I don't think the Qualia was damaged in transit. I think the "melt" spot was there before it shipped but that is just my guess. I had the local shipping company remove the shipping box to inspect the set at their warehouse after they informed me how beat up the box was. That was when they noticed the melt spot. There was no apparent damage caused during shipping.

Apparently there is no other refurbished Qualia 006 currently available. I could wait for one to become available but do I really want to take the chance that set will not fail after a couple of months. I'm also tired of dealing with this issue. I initially reported the issue to Sony back in September 08.

On the plus side I would be getting a $4999.99 projector for $840.00. I paid approximately $10K for the Qualia 006 so it's hard to determine the value of this swap.


Is this directly with Sony or a dealer ?

divedude,

OK, let's see if I can post a picture. I realize this isn't string theory, but . . . http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo304/joedud/093-1.jpg[/IMG]

that brings back memories for me...i attended a week-long skip barber racing school and we got to drive the viper beast they had on hand which was a special version. the small track we were driving on didn't permit us to get out of 2nd gear (actually, i think it went straight to 3rd for some technical reason that i don't recall now).

that car is a beast...it took some time getting used to the pedal arrangement though.

Is this directly with Sony or a dealer ?

This is a Sony exchange.

I have informed Sony that I want to make the exchange and now have to wait for my Qualia 006 to be picked up.

This is a Sony exchange.

I have informed Sony that I want to make the exchange and now have to wait for my Qualia 006 to be picked up.

The matching Sony Qualia 006 stand is not part of the exchange so if anyone out there is interested in purchasing it please PM me. I also have two lamps, one new and one with low hours, available if anyone is interested.

A suggestion

Don't even open the Sony box. Sell it on EBay and take the money and buy a JVC DLA-RS1 or the newer model the DLA-RS2

Beyond the Sony bad taste here are several reasons

Due to the low lumens level, the projector needs to be shown in a low-no light setting,.

The Sony has color issues, so it's not as accurate as the JVC.

divedude,

OK, let's see if I can post a picture. I realize this isn't string theory, but . . . http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo304/joedud/093-1.jpg[/IMG]

That's a beauty :D

Sofer,
Very sweet ride!

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=128974&d=1231432353http://

FYI

When looking for a Sony replacement

Samsung mammoth 82-inch LED series TV

thestewman,

I replied to your PM. Please let me know if you got it.

@_@

thestewman,

I replied to your PM. Please let me know if you got it.


No. I did not receive it

While I realize this is old hat to most of you, below is how I posted the picture of my car. I had never posted a picture online, much to the satisfaction of my wife.

1. Took picture with Sony (!!) camera and put memory stick in HP printer.
2. HP printer downloads pix to computer, under "Windows Photos."
3. Join Photobucket for free.
4. Photobucket downloads pix "from computer."
5. To post online you need URL number, and Photobucket gives you one underneath the pix.
6. In the post click on the "add pix" icon.
7. Copy and paste URL under the picture on Photobucket.

PS Now when I attach pix to an email, when I click on attach, with AOL it opens files right to "Windows Pictures" on the computer and they are shown just as ".jpeg."

Stewman, how much is that Samsung 82 inch? Looks sweet...let us all know MSRP of it. And when is it available, later in 2009 or now?

Thanks,
Brian

Stewman, how much is that Samsung 82 inch? Looks sweet...let us all know MSRP of it. And when is it available, later in 2009 or now?

Thanks,
Brian

Replacement Choices for Qualia 006

70" Sony LCD (That no one has seen or reviewed $19,900.00)

82" Samsung (Seen at CES 2009 -supposed to be in production ($50,000.00)

73" Misubishi LaserVue (about Est $12,000.00) (No projection bulb to replace)

Exactly. After owning two Ferrari's, C4 Corvette, Porsche 911, and a Red SLK 350, I've learned. My white BMW 540i never attracted attention. So, I'm ordering a 2010 AMG C63. Nothing like 4 doors and "not red or yellow" car to fly under the radar gun.
Best car I ever had was a granite grey Mercedes E55 AMG wagon. I totally debadged it, and only the die-hards could still tell what it was. That was one very stealthy car with unreal performance. I "upgraded" to an ML63 -- because, after many knee surgeries, I wanted something a bit higher off the ground -- and have regretted it ever since. Even though the new 6.3 motor is fantastic, the ML is just too heavy. Your C63 is going to be a BLAST, guaranteed!

Best car I ever had was a granite grey Mercedes E55 AMG wagon. I totally debadged it, and only the die-hards could still tell what it was. That was one very stealthy car with unreal performance. I "upgraded" to an ML63 -- because, after many knee surgeries, I wanted something a bit higher off the ground -- and have regretted it ever since. Even though the new 6.3 motor is fantastic, the ML is just too heavy. Your C63 is going to be a BLAST, guaranteed!

Thanks for the input. Three knee surgeries for me, too. That's why my clutch leg has said auto only, for the past 10 years. The new DSG tranny's are very interesting. Waiting for the 2010 because I'm going for total shoulder replacement surgery in a few weeks (another Vietnam souvenir) and it'll be a while before I can drive, so I might as well wait.

Those Mercedes are great cars. The closest connection with my Viper would be two degrees in that both companies use McLaren engineering on some models.

While my knees are in good shape, this year I'll also have shoulder surgery. Boomeritis has caught up to me from old sports throwing injuries, not something as honorable as bringing home souvenirs from serving in Vietnam.

Friends,

I'm afraid a lawsuit may be premature at this time. Since Sony extended the warranty until 6/30/10, the case is not "ripe."

We all certainly hope Sony will step up and relieve our fears at some point prior to summer 2010, but I don't know if a lawsuit is viable until someone's OB fails and Sony refuses repair without payment. :(

I recently returned to my AVS home here to chat with da Boyz, and the first thing I come upon is ALL the OB Problems. Terrific, I say to myself. I thought I had yet another lamp going! I have gone through 2-3 per year or so. BUT, if the 006 looks great than WTF? Right? Well, I have an HD Test Pattern Generator because as most of you know, I make HD TV content for a living at the various networks. (I LOVE my new P2 Varicam!!) ANYWAY, since I make TV, I spend most of my time in our AVID Editing room and less in the Family Room where the 006 lives. I looked at the 006 puzzled a bit, and figured it need yet, another lamp. When I change them I vacuum the filter, etc, but THIS look a little more insidious. Purity test FAILED, Gray Scale FAILED, OH MANnnn! I too have the PLAGUE!

So, to add insult to Sony Injury, our 1 year old PS3 will not load discs. They go in, but the load process never happens. Dead BluRay drive reader!

TWO STRIKES FOR SONY!
But I guess the bright side is with the dreaded Green Blotch over 70% of the screen, I don't need the BluRay player after all!

I am convinced that SONY just SUCKS! I most likely will never have anything to do with them again. I have Panasonic Broadcast gear, a 120hz LCD monitor in the Edit Suite that looks amazing, and no tear or smear, a Panny 50 Plasma in the Master Bed Room and it too looks amazing. Funny, I have an old 32 XBR-CRT that has never had proper corner convergence. It should have told me something because when I went to do a convergence on it, I could never get it 'corner' aligned. I later, years later, found out that the set had an inherent issue that was kept quiet. Other service techs knew about it but it never made it to the masses. Corner alignment would never be perfect on these flat face TV's.

How can WE ALL make a statement to Sony where it means something! It makes sense to me that to hurt a company you have to affect their pocketbook. Do I write a letter to Sir Howard Stringer on behalf of the hundreds of AVS members. After all, don't we advise all of our friends on what to buy? Aren't we the neighborhood geek that everyone asks "What should I buy?"

So I leave this a question in everyone's mind. Am I out to hurt Sony? No not really, but they have lost reality and need to be bitch slapped. The core audiophile is the only one in position to be able to do this. We are them!

Let's get off the cars, and boats, and toilets, (for now) and focus our energy on a real solution!


-Editor (Rob)

I am available for any PM to get this going!

Editor 58--Go for it. I think we are talking about cars because we are so disappointed with Sony and in despair for our beloved Q's. Read the history of the OB problems and you will see a progression from puzzlement, to trying to find a solution, to anger, and now finally despair. I think all of us have concluded that Sony is only making token efforts on this flagship product. A lawsuit will get their attention, if we can get one going. Bad publicity will do well, too. So far, none of us seem to have any introit to the press gods. If you can do it, we all will be eternally grateful.

editor 58--go for it. I think we are talking about cars because we are so disappointed with sony and in despair for our beloved q's. Read the history of the ob problems and you will see a progression from puzzlement, to trying to find a solution, to anger, and now finally despair. I think all of us have concluded that sony is only making token efforts on this flagship product. A lawsuit will get their attention, if we can get one going. Bad publicity will do well, too. So far, none of us seem to have any introit to the press gods. If you can do it, we all will be eternally grateful.

+1

+1

+2...perhaps they will listen to someone in the Business!

I do not see any blotches, but have TERRIBLE gray scale!

How can WE ALL make a statement to Sony where it means something! It makes sense to me that to hurt a company you have to affect their pocketbook. Do I write a letter to Sir Howard Stringer on behalf of the hundreds of AVS members. After all, don't we advise all of our friends on what to buy? Aren't we the neighborhood geek that everyone asks "What should I buy?"

So I leave this a question in everyone's mind. Am I out to hurt Sony? No not really, but they have lost reality and need to be bitch slapped. The core audiophile is the only one in position to be able to do this. We are them!

Let's get off the cars, and boats, and toilets, (for now) and focus our energy on a real solution!


-Editor (Rob)

I am available for any PM to get this going!

Join the class action we have started. If you don't have the info I will locate it on the forum for you.

Editor 58--Go for it. I think we are talking about cars because we are so disappointed with Sony and in despair for our beloved Q's. Read the history of the OB problems and you will see a progression from puzzlement, to trying to find a solution, to anger, and now finally despair. I think all of us have concluded that Sony is only making token efforts on this flagship product. A lawsuit will get their attention, if we can get one going. Bad publicity will do well, too. So far, none of us seem to have any introit to the press gods. If you can do it, we all will be eternally grateful.

+3 The only way Sony is going to "do the right thing" is if the wrong thing is more painful... Their pocketbook is looking pretty empty so it must be made clear that we won't just roll over and watch a screwed up set in two years.

Ted99 and editor58 you have PM. I hope you get them as I do not see them on my message sent list!

editor58,

Your observations regarding the OB problem have been discussed and debated at length, as a review of recent posts in this thread would indicate. Feel free to write all the letters you want, it won't do any good. Neither will trying to enlighten the media. Nobody there is going to take up our cause. Sony is well aware of the problem and our standing as preferred clientele. The consensus is that Sony monitors the AVS Forum site. Its response to the Qualia OB failures was to lengthen the factory warranty, much to the dissatisfaction of most folks here. A potential class action lawsuit has already been discussed. For reasons I am not at liberty to discuss, I will not comment in a public forum about anything related to legal action. Now you're caught up, go for it, and if you get anywhere at all you have my sincerest appreciation.

divedude,

As a lifer to the thread, your OT ventures, toilets included, are welcome diversions. What has made our 006 thread unique has been the civil tolerance of all interests of Qualia owners, and our ability to handle more than one line of thought at a time. Give Mini my regards.

editor58,

Your observations regarding the OB problem have been discussed and debated at length, as a review of recent posts in this thread would indicate. Feel free to write all the letters you want, it won't do any good. Neither will trying to enlighten the media. Nobody there is going to take up our cause. Sony is well aware of the problem and our standing as preferred clientele. The consensus is that Sony monitors the AVS Forum site. Its response to the Qualia OB failures was to lengthen the factory warranty, much to the dissatisfaction of most folks here. A potential class action lawsuit has already been discussed. For reasons I am not at liberty to discuss, I will not comment in a public forum about anything related to legal action. Now you're caught up, go for it, and if you get anywhere at all you have my sincerest appreciation.

divedude,

As a lifer to the thread, your OT ventures, toilets included, are welcome diversions. What has made our 006 thread unique has been the civil tolerance of all interests of Qualia owners, and our ability to handle more than one line of thought at a time. Give Mini my regards.

I agree, well said!

mjw,2095

You have a PM.

Speaking only for myself, a great part of my anger is because I feel stupid. I paid a very high price for the best TV then (and perhaps even still--when it is working properly) available. I did that because of Sony's reputation for technical excellence and their placement of the TV in a "premium line" called Qualia, where Sony said they would sacrifice nothing to technical excellence and charge accordingly. Sony then dropped the Qualia line, making our sets orphans, and then it developed that the sets had a substantial technical flaw. Instead of fixing the flaw or redeeming the customers that trusted the corporation, Sony adopted a lowest cost approach that allows it to walk away in 2010. I feel stupid. I got out of the stock market completely in 1999, because I thought it was irrational that the market valuation of Priceline.com exceeded that of all the airlines whose tickets it was selling. I got out again in late 2007 because it appeared that the whole "finance" game was a giant ponzi scheme and none of the players could be trusted. I now feel that way about corporations. I'm not paying a premium for any product that doesn't have a track record. No more early adopter for me. No more trust, it's just verify.

Ted99 and editor58 you have PM. I hope you get them as I do not see them on my message sent list!

Got it. Good thoughts.

Regarding OB issues: What is being seen in grayscale changes over time as the OB starts to go? What sort of hours start the transformation?

Regarding OB issues: What is being seen in grayscale changes over time as the OB starts to go? What sort of hours start the transformation?

Glen, in my case I have no blotches. What I do have is a VERY bad Gray Scale. Color is weak on Blue and Green and I seem to have black and a few shades of gray. I have DVE for BlueRay and will see if I can fix it, even though I do not know why it would have changed. I also have only about 750 original hours on the Set. Sony said I "could" have an OB going bad BUT if they come out and the OB is OK, I will have to pay for the call!

TED, I want to see what editor58 has to say as I have not heard from him yet. I expect that there "may" be issues with leading edge Tech in Cars, TV's, Computers, or MicroWave Ovens. However, I expect the Company to stand by the product...especially since it was part of the "deal" we bought in to when we decided to spend >10k on a TV!

Hi all,

I haven't posted to the forum for a long time. I'm one of the first buyers of a Qualia 006, and I'm still mostly pleased with it.

Master calibrator Glen Carter recently spent an entire day tweaking my set, which is on the second bulb with approx 300 hours. Glen did a fantastic job obtaining a good grayscale, although we're both disappointed about the deepest blacks. When the set is switched between inputs and the screen is dark (as dark as it gets which isn't pure black of course), the screen has a definite blue cast. I don't recall this much blue in the deepest blacks in the early days of owning this set, but maybe it's the norm. Regardless of any adjustments Glen could make within the service menus, he was never able to minimize the blue cast in the deepest blacks. Otherwise, the gray scale looks good and the image overall is beautiful.

I was disappointed watching 24 the other night, because the look of the show is dark and flat, and not a great showcase for what this set is capable of. Based on what I've read about the symptoms of Q6 OB problems (splotchy colors), I don't think that's the issue. The white raster is pure.

Any thoughts from you guys who have lots of experience with a Qualia 006 would be greatly appreciated!

Since I don't harbor much hope that Sony will act appropriately in the Qualia-Gate scandal...

SCREW THE BLOODY B*ST*RDS!!!
(I tried to use language that Sir Howard might understand)

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jaaW-aLcaDCm3c6LHwev3tVFZgvAD95M66DG1

The linked article details Sony's financial woes. Guess what -- I won't be buying one of those XEL-1 OLED sets I've been lusting after, now that I'm fully aware of Sony's definition of product longevity. Nor will I be buying anything else with the Sony logo anytime soon. There are too many good alternatives; Sony has taken a reputation that was golden and sent it right down their temperature-controlled Toto. I don't think even Mini-Dive can save them now...

All I can say is good riddance; this is what they deserve after treating some of their most loyal customers in this manner. Sorry if I sound exasperated, but this has gone on for far too long :mad:

Hi all,

I haven't posted to the forum for a long time. I'm one of the first buyers of a Qualia 006, and I'm still mostly pleased with it.

Master calibrator Glen Carter recently spent an entire day tweaking my set, which is on the second bulb with approx 300 hours. Glen did a fantastic job obtaining a good grayscale, although we're both disappointed about the deepest blacks. When the set is switched between inputs and the screen is dark (as dark as it gets which isn't pure black of course), the screen has a definite blue cast. I don't recall this much blue in the deepest blacks in the early days of owning this set, but maybe it's the norm. Regardless of any adjustments Glen could make within the service menus, he was never able to minimize the blue cast in the deepest blacks. Otherwise, the gray scale looks good and the image overall is beautiful.

I was disappointed watching 24 the other night, because the look of the show is dark and flat, and not a great showcase for what this set is capable of. Based on what I've read about the symptoms of Q6 OB problems (splotchy colors), I don't think that's the issue. The white raster is pure.

Any thoughts from you guys who have lots of experience with a Qualia 006 would be greatly appreciated!

colortv, nice to see you again. Where's the peacock? ;)

I have had my Q006 calibrated twice, most recently with the replaced OB. I think you are correct, the blacks have always been a little blue. At least that's been my experience. Additionally, as you stated, 24 is not the best visual showcase for what the Q006 can do, especially the interior dark scenes. CSI:Miami, etc. usually is better source material for showing off the Q.

Welcome back again and don't be a stranger! :D

jb007, Great to hear from you again. I was just watching American Idol on my 006 and it looks gorgeous. I think the murky look of 24 is just not meant to show off this set. It's possible the slight bluish cast in the darkest blacks was there from day one, my memory is hazy on it. Because my set was in desperate need of calibration, having had ice cold color temp for a few months, I've been overly sensitive to the blues. After Glen did his magic on it, it really looks great except for the very slight blue cast to the darkest blacks. I can live with it, but if someone chimes in that what I'm seeing deserves warranty attention, I'm listening. Thanks!

By the way, I feel I've gotten ever dime of value for what I paid for this set. What a great way to get into the HD world. All of my friends now have LCD HDTVs, and I find all of them hard to watch after awhile. After the initial WOW factor, they seem harsh and too contrasty even with a bit of tweaking. The nature of the Qualia RP beast is a very pleasant looking picture, easy on the eyes. It seems I'm lucky so far with the OB issue. I may be singing a different tune if mine starts to go south after the warranty extension.

Hi all,

I haven't posted to the forum for a long time. I'm one of the first buyers of a Qualia 006, and I'm still mostly pleased with it.


Hi Color. Great to see you poking your head back in! I'm afraid that the only thing I have to add is to ask - where is that great avatar of the peacock on either the Q or that vintage set?:rolleyes:

Guys, I don't know why my avatar doesn't show. I didn't delete it. Can't seem to find the setting to enable it. Advice?

Guys, I don't know why my avatar doesn't show. I didn't delete it. Can't seem to find the setting to enable it. Advice?

Hi colortv!

I, too, do not have any blotches on my Q, but my gray scale (and therefore color) seem very bad now.

How many hours are on your set now?

OH...my vote for best HD is ESPN football!

Since I don't harbor much hope that Sony will act appropriately in the Qualia-Gate scandal...

SCREW THE BLOODY B*ST*RDS!!!
(I tried to use language that Sir Howard might understand)

http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jaaW-aLcaDCm3c6LHwev3tVFZgvAD95M66DG1

The linked article details Sony's financial woes. Guess what -- I won't be buying one of those XEL-1 OLED sets I've been lusting after, now that I'm fully aware of Sony's definition of product longevity. Nor will I be buying anything else with the Sony logo anytime soon. There are too many good alternatives; Sony has taken a reputation that was golden and sent it right down the their temperature-controlled Toto. I don't think even Mini-Dive can save them now...

All I can say is good riddance; this is what they deserve after treating some of their most loyal customers in this manner. Sorry if I sound exasperated, but this has gone on for far too long :mad:

+1

I have learned my lesson, Sony. Sorry it took so long after all I have gotten from you. I even have 2 SLV-R5 SVHS recorders that no longet work along with a Hi-8 Camcorder. I was even thinking of a new BluRay, but if I get one it will be a Panasonic. Even my normal Sony DVD Player had the Drawer issue! I am done!

brt3 that OLED is nice though! Has ANYONE heard any more about the 1080P forms we sent in or will that, too, just go away?

Here is some info on the issue we have with Colortv's Q grayscale. First calibration, grayscale was quite flat and close to D65, however a terrible, IMO, issue with 2-6 IRE, +Green. This last calibration, after ~300-hours on new lamp, the low end of the grayscale had gone excessively +Blue, gradually tapering down to near D65 at 100 IRE. IIRC, 10IRE and 20IRE were off the chart, 30IRE came in somewhere above 13,000K. No signal or 0 IRE was/is "Blue", not even close to black, and, I couldn't find anything that could affect it. There is a big jump towards gray, just going to 1 IRE, and that wasn't easy to achieve. Trying to flatten the grayscale (many hours, many tries), blue needed to be drastically reduced on the low end and then increased on the high end to compensate for the interaction between the two adjustment parameters. Because of this drast adjustment, the grayscale is not as flat as desirable, it dips (-blue) in the middle. Because of trying to compromise for an overall best picture, below 20 IRE and above 80IRE needed to be slightly cooler than desired. This was to maximize the quality of fleshtones in the more common scenes with mid-APLs.

I suspect there is a voltage regulation issue on the blue panel, causing it to not move the pixels enough to deflect blue to the off position. If there were only a competent repair technician to discuss the issues with. It would be nice if it is merely some board level component failure rather than an OB.

While the image is much better with Colortv's Q, I know it can look better. It still has an amazing picture for a RPTV. Those who own one, got what they paid for. It is unfortunate that Sony dropped the ball on supporting the Q and its owners.

mspan, I've had mostly great luck with Sony products. My old XBR CRT still looks good after almost 20 years! And my old Hi8 camcorder still works flawlessly. I recently used it to grab some old stuff I shot. My 1st gen Sony HDV camcorder (HDR-HC3) still cranks out gorgeous HD video, even after being dunked into a lake in Burma in July. It lost its marbles for about an hour, then started working flawlessly again after drying out in the hot sun.

Last July I was fortunate to take a tour of one of Sony's oldest factories in Sendai, Japan where I toured their videotape manufacturing facility. I finally understand why most Japanese products, especially Sony, are of such high quality. The unrelenting strides to make the finest quality products is well suited to the Japanese psyche. Even the quality of the plastic videotape cases made in the plant are subject to incredible scrutiny. I'll lay the blame on early SXRD problems to an infant technology that may become more robust in the years ahead. Witness the dramatic price increase announced for the Q6 before it was marketed. I doubt if Sony made much (if any) money on them, because they were intended to showcase the technology. No doubt aging simulations were part of the development process, but nothing beats real-world use. Unfortunately, it seems that Sony may not be standing behind this very expensive product when warranties expire. Not many companies stand behind out-of-warranty products.

Regarding the hours on my set...

I swapped out lamp #1 at 1371 hours because the image was dimming too much for my taste. The set currently has 1770 hours. mspan, one reason your set looks crappy is because the color temperature of the lamp changes dramatically over time. I let my second lamp mature to a stable plateau before asking Glen Carter over to do his magic. He worked tirelessly from 10:30am until 7pm on Saturday to achieve great results. If the O IRE blue tinge wasn't there, I'd have no complaints about the PQ. I'm not sure what to do to address the issue. Do you think Sony's factory service be able to solve the problem even if not under warranty?

BTW, I can't see an option to turn on avatars in my user control panel.

Hello colortv..

Yes, the quality in Japan is great. I used to go there a lot as I worked both with, and then for, a very large company there. I was in a very good position and do know about that environment. I have been there 45 times!

However, not supporting known issues or trying to find a good solution for new issues was not something that was practiced.

I am still on my first lamp at about 750 hours. I want to use DVE on BluRay to see what is going on. One problem I do not have is a brightness issue. If anything it is too bright!

The lesson I learned is not to waste money calibrating a tired lamp, because color temperature shifts accelerate later in the life of the lamp. Glen's first visit to my home was to compensate for the changing color temp of the first lamp. After a few months, it became dim to the point that I wasn't enjoying my expensive TV. So I replaced the lamp, but Glen's tweaks for the old lamp were way off for the fresh lamp. We were finally able to arrange a re-calibration recently with about 300 hours on lamp 2. Hopefully the color temp will be stable for awhile.

Sony's decisions about keeping customers happy shouldn't be a reflection on their engineering and manufacturing operations. Any short sighted rebuffs by the customer service arm of Sony will result in loss of brand loyalty. There are plenty of quality options these days.

Okay, so I'm a few pages late to the car discussion...

...thanks A LOT, colortv!!! How DARE you derail this thread by changing the topic back to the Sony Qualia 006!!! ;)
(For real: great to see you here again!)

I thought all the Audi talk was interesting, because just over a year ago I bought my own "mid-life crisis" car: A 2008 Audi S4. I love it! Hooray for stock options!

4.2L V8, 330HP, 302 ft-lbs, it's a mover. And in a nice flat "Dolphin Gray", it's a sleeper, too. (This is a preference of mine, given my other car is a Taurus SHO.)

These pictures are from when I first got it, thus the temporary tags and why it's so very very CLEAN. :cool: (This has the additional benefit of not revealing any license plates in the photo--except for one that, well, won't surprise you.)

--Dwayne

...I thought all the Audi talk was interesting, because just over a year ago I bought my own "mid-life crisis" car: A 2008 Audi S4. I love it! Hooray for stock options!...
Great car with an engine that is going out of production in favor of a blown V-6. Nothing else sounds like a V-8, though -- except, perhaps, Audi's own V-10).

To get this back to Qualia -- do you have enough shipping box cardboard left over to make yourself a Qualia/Audi windshield sun shield? :cool:

... given my other car is a Taurus SHOLooks like you might be able to replace that Ford next year. ;)
http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/19/spy-shots-2010-ford-taurus-sho-spotted-without-camo/

Zechman lives!

Yes, we deviated off-course a little as a diversion to our depressing OB concerns. Nice car. Since I'm in my horsepower phase of life, I guess I should ask if you can put a blower on it. I have contacted my accountant to see if I can apply for an insanity deduction for my purchase.

I hope Sony sticks around long enough to provide parts for my Q006. I don't need them for any future purchases, but it would be nice to keep my Qualia going for another 2-3 years:
____________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________

TOKYO/SEOUL (Reuters) - Sony Corp stunned investors on Thursday, warning of big losses, underlining the deep pain in the consumer electronics market as demand crumbles in a brutal global downturn.

Japan's Sony said it would post a bigger-than-expected $2.9 billion operating loss this business year due to sliding demand, a stronger yen and as it restructures its ailing electronics operations.

As inventories pile up and prices tumble, Sony is feeling the pinch across its operations -- from semiconductors to movies and insurance. Analysts say the group, which generates two-thirds of its revenue outside Japan, needs to take more drastic steps.

Sony will give further details of a restructuring at a 5.30 p.m. (0830 GMT) briefing in Tokyo, attended by CEO Howard Stringer.

Ahead of the profit warning, Sony shares closed down 2.6 percent, underperforming a 1.9 percent gain on the benchmark Nikkei average.

Last month, Sony said it would cut 16,000 jobs, curb investment and pull out of some businesses to slash $1.1 billion in annual costs.

brt3: +1

Well, that is why I wonder about the 1080P case. I had wanted to use my $180 to stock up on the BluRay Concert DVD's!

Big news on optical block replacement. During the last year or so, my Q6 developed increasing blue in the deep blacks. Just above the deepest blacks, the blue disappeared fast. Glen Carter did his best to achieve an uncontaminated gray scale, but that deep black problem was uncorrectable. So a call to Sony service was in order. The local contractor said Sony recommends OB replacement whenever there are color issues. I thought OB problems were different that this symptom, but I just discovered that my Q6 problem was all about the OB. After replacement, my set looks better than it ever did! Not only has the blue black problem vanished, the images just look better. Brighter, crisper, and most notably, more details in the blacks. Rather than crushing to black, there is noticeably more shadow detail. And that was very evident when watching 24, which has lots of murky scenes.

I look forward to a revisit from Glen Carter. Finally, he will have something to work with rather than trying to make chicken salad out of chicken s**t.

If in doubt about your Q6, get the OB replaced for free during the warranty extension period.

Big news on optical block replacement. During the last year or so, my Q6 developed increasing blue in the deep blacks. Just above the deepest blacks, the blue disappeared fast. Glen Carter did his best to achieve an uncontaminated gray scale, but that deep black problem was uncorrectable. So a call to Sony service was in order. The local contractor said Sony recommends OB replacement whenever there are color issues. I thought OB problems were different that this symptom, but I just discovered that my Q6 problem was all about the OB. After replacement, my set looks better than it ever did! Not only has the blue black problem vanished, the images just look better. Brighter, crisper, and most notably, more details in the blacks. Rather than crushing to black, there is noticeably more shadow detail. And that was very evident when watching 24, which has lots of murky scenes.

I look forward to a revisit from Glen Carter. Finally, he will have something to work with rather than trying to make chicken salad out of chicken s**t.

If in doubt about your Q6, get the OB replaced for free during the warranty extension period.

Hello colortv...
Great news. But, I had called Sony a few months ago about my low blue and green color saturation, with reds and other colors being hot. I also mentioned my bad gray scale!

The problem was that Sony said that they would send someone out to look at it, BUT if they thought the OB was OK, I would have to pay for the call. Did they change this policy, or do they now accept that the OB can be bad even without blue or green blobs? Some of my dark scenes seem noisy, too.

mspan,

I'm not sure about policy. The service contractor said the Sony told them whenever color is an issue, replace the OB. They called me a day later and said Sony had authorized the replacement, and ordered the OB. A week later, it was installed. Not sure what would have happened if the replaced OB didn't solve the gray scale. I'll never know because the original OB was obviously bad.

mspan,

I'm not sure about policy. The service contractor said the Sony told them whenever color is an issue, replace the OB. They called me a day later and said Sony had authorized the replacement, and ordered the OB. A week later, it was installed. Not sure what would have happened if the replaced OB didn't solve the gray scale. I'll never know because the original OB was obviously bad.

Well, I am going to look again and then call and see what they say. I know the test patern on DVE (BluRay) is very bright. Not sure what I need to adjust but I will play with Picture and/or Brightness.!

I just called the Sony 1080P Settlement line and they now say it was NOT approved.

mspan,

I didn't have any blobs at all, just strong blue in the deepest blacks, and fairly noisy blacks. All that has cleared up with the new OB. From your description, it sounds like a possible OB issue, but considering what the original price of your Q6, a paid service call if necessary might be worth helping you get what you paid for.

I just called the Sony 1080P Settlement line and they now say it was NOT approved.Contact David Evans (ISF Calibrator) 21st Century Calibrations, Portland OR. You will benefit from a calibration. David can determine if your problem is calibration or OB. If he determines it is OB, you can have the service call, get the OB replaced, if needed, then David can finish the calibration. At a minimum, you will be getting the maximum performance from your Q for the cost of a calibration.

mspan,

I didn't have any blobs at all, just strong blue in the deepest blacks, and fairly noisy blacks. All that has cleared up with the new OB. From your description, it sounds like a possible OB issue, but considering what the original price of your Q6, a paid service call if necessary might be worth helping you get what you paid for.

OK, but I will play with DVE (BluRay version) first to see if anything I can do will help. Also, I still only have a total of 700 hours on this Q! I would think the OB should have lasted that long!

Contact David Evans (ISF Calibrator) 21st Century Calibrations, Portland OR. You will benefit from a calibration. David can determine if your problem is calibration or OB. If he determines it is OB, you can have the service call, get the OB replaced, if needed, then David can finish the calibration. At a minimum, you will be getting the maximum performance from your Q for the cost of a calibration.

Thanks, I wrote his number down but have to look him up again.

I just called the Sony 1080P Settlement line and they now say it was NOT approved.

Does that mean we won't be getting our $180 e-dollars?

OK, this must be the worst amount of hourage i've gotten from a lamp thus far: 994 hours...

i wonder if expected lamp life varies with age of the set :(

OK, this must be the worst amount of hourage i've gotten from a lamp thus far: 994 hours...

i wonder if expected lamp life varies with age of the set :(

The Qualia Reps. told me to use reduced power settings and gave me free bulbs for 3 years,because the original went out at 764 hours.Maybe running at reduced lamp temp. has helped my ob last.

Does that mean we won't be getting our $180 e-dollars?

Yes, we won't be getting the $180 e-dollars!

BD 30 FW ver 2.7 released

BD 30 FW ver 2.7 released

Thank you.

I can't keep up with all of this!! Will it fix our OB's? :D

BD 30 FW ver 2.7 released

Thanks, I really like to keep up with the latest firmware :)

I did the 2.7 fw update OK with a good quality CD-RW as usual. I always wonder if a DVD-RW will work. I also wonder why I save all of the downloaded .exe files as they do not let you go back anyway! I have 7 of these 32+MB files now.

Just had umr here for calibration of the optical block that was replaced 11 months ago. Amazing difference in picture quality, and was glad to find no symptoms reappearing from the old OB problems. Jeff also mentioned he was not aware personally or anecdotally of any failures of the replacement OB's.

Here's hoping we get some longevity from the picture we thought we purchased! :D

I did the 2.7 fw update OK with a good quality CD-RW as usual. I always wonder if a DVD-RW will work. I also wonder why I save all of the downloaded .exe files as they do not let you go back anyway! I have 7 of these 32+MB files now.

Might as well overwrite them. I toss mine as soon as the update is installed.

Here's hoping we get some longevity from the picture we thought we purchased! :D

I'm with you on that Randy :D

I had mine OB replaced a little over a year ago and in the last month my screen has the "greens" again. Very disappointed!!!!

I had mine OB replaced a little over a year ago and in the last month my screen has the "greens" again. Very disappointed!!!!

How many hours does your replacement block have on it? I had mine replaced a little over a year ago also and was hoping the new OB's had been improved not to turn green again.

Just got through checking and I have about 1400 hours on the new OB.

Hi everyone,

I've finally had to replace my OB as well last month. I must have been on the phone with the Qualia service center rep for all of 30 seconds (of course after 40 minutes of waiting on hold) where he agreed to have the OB replaced.

When the tech showed up I told him that I had the Q006 calibrated. Much to my dismay he said he was required by Sony to factory default it! :mad: So he proceeded to replace it but in the end told me he decided not to default the settings. :)

I was so amazed at the picture quality again with the new OB. My Q was well again and I hadn't realized just how bad the picture was. In my excitement I forgot to run DVE calibration disk while the tech was still there.

When I finally got around to running DVE about a month later I noticed that the picture geometry is rotated slightly clockwise and shifted a bit to the left. Not really noticeable when watching video but I feel the Q should be perfect. Can this be fixed through the service menu?

I also noticed when trying to calibrate colors that red and blue are spot on (at least what is seen through the RGB filters from the DVE disc), but green is off. Can this also be fixed through the service menu as well? My colors have a slight push to yellow with this.

All in all good to have a new OB. Was just like old times at how impressed I was at the picture. :) However it would be nice to have the 2 issues above fixed to have her perfect again.

Thanks!

xrispy

Hi everyone,

I've finally had to replace my OB as well last month. I must have been on the phone with the Qualia service center rep for all of 30 seconds (of course after 40 minutes of waiting on hold) where he agreed to have the OB replaced.

When the tech showed up I told him that I had the Q006 calibrated. Much to my dismay he said he was required by Sony to factory default it! :mad: So he proceeded to replace it but in the end told me he decided not to default the settings. :)

I was so amazed at the picture quality again with the new OB. My Q was well again and I hadn't realized just how bad the picture was. In my excitement I forgot to run DVE calibration disk while the tech was still there.

When I finally got around to running DVE about a month later I noticed that the picture geometry is rotated slightly clockwise and shifted a bit to the left. Not really noticeable when watching video but I feel the Q should be perfect. Can this be fixed through the service menu?

I also noticed when trying to calibrate colors that red and blue are spot on (at least what is seen through the RGB filters from the DVE disc), but green is off. Can this also be fixed through the service menu as well? My colors have a slight push to yellow with this.

All in all good to have a new OB. Was just like old times at how impressed I was at the picture. :) However it would be nice to have the 2 issues above fixed to have her perfect again.

Thanks!

xrispyIt might be close, however if it has been off for quite a while, you can't visually tell how far off it is. You can't rely on color filters too much, they are all different and seem to change with age. Your calibrator should give you a reduced price for a re-calibration, since his settings weren't changed. The image can be shifted R/L, U/D in the SM, but rotation is a mechanical issue. You might get back in touch with Sony to correct the alignment issue. If they reset the SM settings to default, you would be looking at a full calibration fee, less any discount offered for a repeat customer.

Be careful about the "push to yellow". Not all OB's fail to green. Mine, and a few others failed to yellow.

Be careful about the "push to yellow". Not all OB's fail to green. Mine, and a few others failed to yellow.That is a minus blue problem. The problem with "colortv's" 006 was a plus blue issue.

Yes, by all means, don't look for just green issues. Anything causing abnormal coloration should be investigated. Some of these issues can be discovered and verified with a proper calibration and the use of proper calibration equipment. With the colorspace on colortv's, the normal colorspace was significantly smaller than REC 709. After the OB replacement, the "normal" colorspace was again correct.

That is a minus blue problem. The problem with "colortv's" 006 was a plus blue issue.

Yes, by all means, don't look for just green issues. Anything causing abnormal coloration should be investigated. Some of these issues can be discovered and verified with a proper calibration and the use of proper calibration equipment. With the colorspace on colortv's, the normal colorspace was significantly smaller than REC 709. After the OB replacement, the "normal" colorspace was again correct.

Thanks everyone. I'll call the tech that did the repairs and see if he'll come back to correct the geometry. I'll ask if he can look at the color issue. He seems really adamant about factory defaulting everything though saying that problems are often caused by tweaks people do like calibration (with air quotes). He wasn't a big fan of calibration and said the Q's don't need it. :( So I'm concerned he'll default my settings if I have him look at the colors.

UMR calibrated my Q. I guess I'll try to get the tech to address the color as well and then see if I can get UMR to come by again. Looks like his California tour is booked up now though.

Thanks!

-xrispy

With the colorspace on colortv's, the normal colorspace was significantly smaller than REC 709. After the OB replacement, the "normal" colorspace was again correct.

That's pretty much what I'm noticing on mine. In Normal colorspace, the green and red primaries are significantly undersaturated. Even in Wide colorspace, the red primary comes up a little short of where it should be.

I ended up selling my Q back to Sony, but of course they didn't want their $1500 stand that only works with their lemon set. So it is for sale if anyone is interested, I think $400 not including shipping is a fair price, but if you think i'm nuts and you still want the stand let me know what you believe to be fair market Value i'm open to any offers. Will also throw in brand new lamp with zero hours which is worth $300 by itself.

Serious inquires only

endersxenocide@hotmail.com

in the past i've ordered all of my replacement lamps from "express repair center" ... i just quickly checked and noticed that tvlampsforless has it for $40 less (i guess they are aptly named :))

has anyone ordered from them before? am i getting a genuine sony lamp and are they reliable/trustworthy? ( it is listed on post 1 so i am somewhat presuming that they have been vetted by the owners here...)

in the past i've ordered all of my replacement lamps from "express repair center" ... i just quickly checked and noticed that tvlampsforless has it for $40 less (i guess they are aptly named :))

has anyone ordered from them before? am i getting a genuine sony lamp and are they reliable/trustworthy? ( it is listed on post 1 so i am somewhat presuming that they have been vetted by the owners here...)

I ordered one from there. Came in a Sony box and looked just like all the others... All the glass looked new, so if they are rebuilt they must replace the glass too (or quartz if that's what it is).

in the past i've ordered all of my replacement lamps from "express repair center" ... i just quickly checked and noticed that tvlampsforless has it for $40 less (i guess they are aptly named :))

has anyone ordered from them before? am i getting a genuine sony lamp and are they reliable/trustworthy? ( it is listed on post 1 so i am somewhat presuming that they have been vetted by the owners here...)

Ben,

Tvlampsforless is where I have ordered all of mine. They are Sony bulbs. They are a good company and send the lamp right away with a good price for UPS shipping.

I ordered one from there. Came in a Sony box and looked just like all the others... All the glass looked new, so if they are rebuilt they must replace the glass too (or quartz if that's what it is).

Ben,

Tvlampsforless is where I have ordered all of mine. They are Sony bulbs. They are a good company and send the lamp right away with a good price for UPS shipping.

Excellent...thanks to both of you.

I placed the order with them yesterday b/c of the lower price AND lower shipping cost and your past experience(s).

I would say within an hour of placing the order I got notification that they had shipped my order and was provided with a UPS tracking number...that was fast!!!

Once again I will be ready for the demise of yet another lamp...I'm starting to get a sinking feeling in my stomach about the number of lamps I've fed this thing thus far and the number I will likely have to continue feeding it going forward. LARGE upfront investment and LARGE recurring cost...hmmm, guess I didn't think this impulse purchase through all that much :)

Excellent...thanks to both of you.

I placed the order with them yesterday b/c of the lower price AND lower shipping cost and your past experience(s).

I would say within an hour of placing the order I got notification that they had shipped my order and was provided with a UPS tracking number...that was fast!!!

Once again I will be ready for the demise of yet another lamp...I'm starting to get a sinking feeling in my stomach about the number of lamps I've fed this thing thus far and the number I will likely have to continue feeding it going forward. LARGE upfront investment and LARGE recurring cost...hmmm, guess I didn't think this impulse purchase through all that much :)

The best thing I did with the Q was order the GE extended warranty. Two free lamps already. One more and the warranty is paid for, and I expect it before the SONY extended OB warranty expires. Only time will tell what happens if the OB fails again after the end of next year--I expect GE to pay some nominal sum and wash their hands of me.

The best thing I did with the Q was order the GE extended warranty. Two free lamps already. One more and the warranty is paid for, and I expect it before the SONY extended OB warranty expires. Only time will tell what happens if the OB fails again after the end of next year--I expect GE to pay some nominal sum and wash their hands of me.

Ted, I, too, have the GE warranty. Not sure what will happen when we try to get any OB issues resolved. I assume the "stuff" that had been started is dead now?

At least, in my case, I got a very nice Custom Stand so I am not left with a stand that only fits the Q.

Has anyone ever experienced an XL5000 bulb that doesn't have the proper 'plug' for the Q? I've received two now from DLPLampSource, but neither work, and the company has been a huge pain to work with. The edges of the plug seem to be a bit too square or something... :confused: I've attached a picture below. The old lamp's plug is on the top, the new one on the bottom, and it just won't fit.

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/5180/plugs.jpg

Ted, I, too, have the GE warranty. Not sure what will happen when we try to get any OB issues resolved. I assume the "stuff" that had been started is dead now?

At least, in my case, I got a very nice Custom Stand so I am not left with a stand that only fits the Q.

Per my last contact (2 wks ago) with the legal team, the process is ongoing. I pointed out that another class action suit had been filed for OB failures with the XBR models. I was told this shouldn't affect the Q action because, although the numbers are small, the damages are large. Time will tell.

hello All,

could someone please post the part number of the ob for the 2004 model that is still covered by extended warranty.

I own a 2004 60 inch wega and my extended warranty expired at the beginning of 2009. 2 weeks before the ob failed again.

I would like to raise a stink with sony why one model is still covered and others are not.

Thank you.

ouch, that's gonna leave a mark...

http://www.electronichouse.com/article/samsung_tops_consumer_brand_loyalty_study/

hello All,

could someone please post the part number of the ob for the 2004 model that is still covered by extended warranty.

I own a 2004 60 inch wega and my extended warranty expired at the beginning of 2009. 2 weeks before the ob failed again.

I would like to raise a stink with sony why one model is still covered and others are not.

Thank you.

sorry, while i had mine replaced i don't know what the model number is for the ob

The technician returned to look at the Q's geometry. I was really impressed with the service. He spent about 3 hours trying to rotate the display 1/4" counterclockwise. It wasn't a trivial task and I'm pleased and amazed he spent that much time. He ended up having to shim one corner of the OB. After all that we were probably about 1/8" off. I was happy though much better than before. I wonder why Sony didn't put mechanical adjustments to help with this alignment process.

Thanks GlenC for the u/d r/l adjustment in the service menu. Worked like a charm after the rotation was corrected. Now just waiting for UMR to come back and get re-calibrated.

-xrispy

Well, I just got my 3rd OB replaced and the set looks great again. It took the tech just under 2 hours and he did a great job(Skokie TV). He said SONY told him it's a heat problem so--- this time I am never going to leave the set on when I am temporarily not watching it and I have set the menu to high altitude(fans on always) and power saver settings. Crossing my fingers!!!

Well, it looks like lamp #3 gave up this week. Unlike the last one, which had something to say ("It's better to burn out than fade away."), this one just went super-dim on Sunday and just plain refused to light up yesterday (Monday) evening.

Considering that UMR is coming tomorrow, I'm glad it happened when it did and not a week later.

I also stocked up on lamps (3 of them) thanks to TVLampsForLess running a sale.

Burn-time numbers to follow (I'll check it when UMR is here).

--Dwayne

Well, it looks like lamp #3 gave up this week. Unlike the last one, which had something to say ("It's better to burn out than fade away."), this one just went super-dim on Sunday and just plain refused to light up yesterday (Monday) evening.

Considering that UMR is coming tomorrow, I'm glad it happened when it did and not a week later.

I also stocked up on lamps (3 of them) thanks to TVLampsForLess running a sale.

Burn-time numbers to follow (I'll check it when UMR is here).

--Dwayne

dwayne, have you had your ob replaced?

Well, it looks like lamp #3 gave up this week.
I also stocked up on lamps (3 of them) thanks to TVLampsForLess running a sale.

--Dwayne

Heh let us know when there is a sale :). I haven't shelled out for a real spare (my original bulb runs but is too dim to put up with for long). I have been hoping to pick a spare up at a good price. Sale ends 3/13 according to the website 235 is nice (cost me another $10 for shipping but 245 sure beats 300+). I picked one up (heck was tempted to do two especially as betterlamps shows out of stock... and express service claims only a few left). Now I have a year or so of watching safely stored away...

Had Jeff over today. He did an excellent job calibrating a 52" XBR6 for me. He dialed in the Q during his last visit to New England (after I got the new OB).

He is a class act in every way!!

Dwayne - I will send you a pm. umr mentioned your experience with the higher speed broadband...


Ron

PS - I ain't Irish but where am I going tomorrow to get me some kick-butt corned beef & cabbage?:confused:

Had Jeff {Meier - UMR}over today. He did an excellent job calibrating a 52" XBR6 for me.Thanks for the calibration report. I've included it in the flat panel (Post#2) list that's linked at the bottom of my post.

Dwayne - I sent you a pm.

Ron

I bought my Qualia006 4 years ago and got the extended Philips Warranty which is good well into 2010- I have been reading on this forum ever since the purchase- I appreciate all of the input as well as the recommendation to use UMR. Over the last year or so I have become less impressed by my Q's picture although it may be that newer sets I've seen with better blacks and 1080p input have made me predisposed to feel this way. Anyway, I decided to have Sony come out to check on the set to see if my light engine or O.B. was beginning to go bad. The Sony Rep came from Qualiaxerve, and said that he was "the one and only guy" to service Qualia 006s in the Dallas FTW Area. He said that of only 4 Qualia 006 sets that he has ever serviced in this area, none needed O.B. replacement and that lower end SXRD TVs have been the ones with the most O.B. problems. He looked at my menus and said that my O.B. looked perfectly fine. I played some Bluerays for him and he said he thought my picture quality was still excellent. He advised me that my biggest problem with the set having bluish/purple blacks is just a result of the lamp being on and that it was always like that due to the technology that went into developing this particular set. He didn't charge me for coming out, but basically told me I should be happy with the condition of the set. I was hoping that he would find an issue with my O.B. so that I could have gotten it replaced with an improved version, but no such luck. I wonder if light use and decent ventilation have prevented OB problems for me- I worry if OB problems are inevitable for my set, even after the Sony guy assured me that OB failure is extremely uncommon for Qualia 006s. Thanks for listening.

Parrish , I now have the XBR 2. I had another Sony model go bad so exchanged with the XBR 2 . So I feel for what Your statement above says & asking. Here is the best test. Go to any analog station (snow) , & make cirtain picture looks the same across the Picture area. Any of the test DVD's, THX on regular DVD. If You have Blu Ray Sony & any Sony Movie on Blu Ray ? Punch SONY on the key pad or 7669 enter , has some test patterns come on to test. I do this one time a Month to test & see that I don't have any color other that white across the picture. I use Warm 2 so can quickly see if something is going bad... Hope this helps...

I bought my Qualia006 4 years ago and got the extended Philips Warranty which is good well into 2010- I have been reading on this forum ever since the purchase- I appreciate all of the input as well as the recommendation to use UMR. Over the last year or so I have become less impressed by my Q's picture although it may be that newer sets I've seen with better blacks and 1080p input have made me predisposed to feel this way. Anyway, I decided to have Sony come out to check on the set to see if my light engine or O.B. was beginning to go bad. The Sony Rep came from Qualiaxerve, and said that he was "the one and only guy" to service Qualia 006s in the Dallas FTW Area. He said that of only 4 Qualia 006 sets that he has ever serviced in this area, none needed O.B. replacement and that lower end SXRD TVs have been the ones with the most O.B. problems. He looked at my menus and said that my O.B. looked perfectly fine. I played some Bluerays for him and he said he thought my picture quality was still excellent. He advised me that my biggest problem with the set having bluish/purple blacks is just a result of the lamp being on and that it was always like that due to the technology that went into developing this particular set. He didn't charge me for coming out, but basically told me I should be happy with the condition of the set. I was hoping that he would find an issue with my O.B. so that I could have gotten it replaced with an improved version, but no such luck. I wonder if light use and decent ventilation have prevented OB problems for me- I worry if OB problems are inevitable for my set, even after the Sony guy assured me that OB failure is extremely uncommon for Qualia 006s. Thanks for listening.


At this juncture unless Sony releases the Qualia failure and technical data no one knows for sure why and how many Qualia's fail.
As Qualia users we do know the following:

Users can performance test the OB:
Turn on the set and without a memory stick in the memory stick viewer turn on the viewer.
You should see a white screen from edge to edge and top to bottom with no discolored areas.

Possible best practices for prolonging the OB and bulb life.

Refrain from turning the set off and then on without having the set cool
down.

Go into the setup menu and make the following changes.

Set Power level to reduced power ( This reduces heat and the manual says enhances black level).

Set the system HIGH Altitude ON
(Turns fans on all the time and at a higher speed)

Set Picture Mode to PRO instead of Vivid or Standard
You can use the menu to make picture adjustments to your own selection or use the ones on the first page of the forum until UMR or other certified person can calibrate your set.

Periodically clean the bulb area and vacuum the rear grille areas to allow an adequate flow of air into the set.

if you are still experiencing poor black levels do have UMR work on your set. He does wonders.

ColorTV,
It sounds like you had the exact same issues as I am having with no green blotches, but blueish blacks. You said you were able to have the OB replaced and that the problem with the blueish blacks was corrected? As I stated earlier, I had a Sony Tech come out to address my Q's problem with washed out color and blueish blacks and they even ordered the OB before coming out, however he walked into my house, turned on the tv, selected one of the transparent menus and said- "you have no problem with your OB" - " if your OB were bad, then the menu sections would be discolored- and they are not" He promptly left my house with his replacement OB in hand! I wonder why with my problem and ColorTVs being identical, why Sony put in a new OB for him, but declined for me! Maybe I should just accept my pq for what it is and just go on with my life! I can't believe this TV has been so important to me for so long and after being so utterly satisfied with it, now I am displeased. I really had hoped that Sony would put the new OB in and that my love for the set would be rejuvenated- so far, not the case.

Big news on optical block replacement. During the last year or so, my Q6 developed increasing blue in the deep blacks. Just above the deepest blacks, the blue disappeared fast. Glen Carter did his best to achieve an uncontaminated gray scale, but that deep black problem was uncorrectable. So a call to Sony service was in order. The local contractor said Sony recommends OB replacement whenever there are color issues. I thought OB problems were different that this symptom, but I just discovered that my Q6 problem was all about the OB. After replacement, my set looks better than it ever did! Not only has the blue black problem vanished, the images just look better. Brighter, crisper, and most notably, more details in the blacks. Rather than crushing to black, there is noticeably more shadow detail. And that was very evident when watching 24, which has lots of murky scenes.

I look forward to a revisit from Glen Carter. Finally, he will have something to work with rather than trying to make chicken salad out of chicken s**t.

If in doubt about your Q6, get the OB replaced for free during the warranty extension period.

Here is the quote from ColorTV I was referring to.

ColorTV,
It sounds like you had the exact same issues as I am having with no green blotches, but blueish blacks. You said you were able to have the OB replaced and that the problem with the blueish blacks was corrected? As I stated earlier, I had a Sony Tech come out to address my Q's problem with washed out color and blueish blacks and they even ordered the OB before coming out, however he walked into my house, turned on the tv, selected one of the transparent menus and said- "you have no problem with your OB" - " if your OB were bad, then the menu sections would be discolored- and they are not" He promptly left my house with his replacement OB in hand! I wonder why with my problem and ColorTVs being identical, why Sony put in a new OB for him, but declined for me! Maybe I should just accept my pq for what it is and just go on with my life! I can't believe this TV has been so important to me for so long and after being so utterly satisfied with it, now I am displeased. I really had hoped that Sony would put the new OB in and that my love for the set would be rejuvenated- so far, not the case.A quick look by eye doesn't give a full valuation. With the OB on ColorTV's, the image was "very" blue in the lower IREs. With hours of work, I could somewhat correct the grayscale, however, as the APL dropped, the colorspace would collapse towards blue. Black, (no input signal, 0 IRE) was a definite blue. The 006 soes not have a "neutral" black, it is slightly blue, however above 5 IRE or so, it can be fairly neutral.

Unfortunately, you are at the discretion of the service tech, unless you can document deviation from normal.

A quick look by eye doesn't give a full valuation. With the OB on ColorTV's, the image was "very" blue in the lower IREs. With hours of work, I could somewhat correct the grayscale, however, as the APL dropped, the colorspace would collapse towards blue. Black, (no input signal, 0 IRE) was a definite blue. The 006 soes not have a "neutral" black, it is slightly blue, however above 5 IRE or so, it can be fairly neutral.

Unfortunately, you are at the discretion of the service tech, unless you can document deviation from normal.

I will view the set this weekend and determine if I think I need to call Sony back. I noticed that I do have some options for improving the contrast ratio that had not been activated by UMR such as the Black Correction setting. When I adjust this setting from off to low I do notice an improvement in pq on some content. If Sony will allow me to have a professional get in to the service menu and document deviation if it exists, then I may have a case for getting my OB changed out, especially if I use ColorTVs case as an example. In your opinion, is it possible that the settings made by UMR 3 years ago may just need to be adjusted? Thanks for your input!

Thank you for your input! This weekend I will play with the advanced settings to see if I can improve the blacks a little more. I noticed that UMR had left the Black Corrector setting off and when adjusting it to Low setting, it did seem to improve the contrast ratio a little on certain content. Maybe I will contact Sony again to see if they would further investigate my claim. I can direct them to the quote by ColorTV if need be. Does anyone have any opinions on the Samsung 72" DLP or the Mitsubishi 73" DLP sets? They seem to be very reasonably priced $1600.00 to $2200.00.

I looked into both of those sets. The Samsung that had LED backlighting seemed pretty good, as did the Mits. Of course they're not in the Qualia league, but what is in that size? Still, though, you can't really go wrong for at or under $2,000.

I looked into both of those sets. The Samsung that had LED backlighting seemed pretty good, as did the Mits. Of course they're not in the Qualia league, but what is in that size? Still, though, you can't really go wrong for at or under $2,000.

My Dad has the Mits and it looks pretty good to me except for the Rainbow effect, although when he switched from Component to HDMI alot of that went away. Star Power here in Dallas is selling the latest 50" Pioneer Kuro for under $2,500.00- too bad I could never get used to watching a 50" set in my main room!

Just wondering if anyone has purchased or taken a good look at the laser televisions? It certainly seems like a promising technology and the cost to scale up in size seems minimal (unlike lcd for instance).

Just wondering if anyone has purchased or taken a good look at the laser televisions? It certainly seems like a promising technology and the cost to scale up in size seems minimal (unlike lcd for instance).

I asked umr that question during his visit here last week. I would prefer to let him speak for himself. I will say that his reponse did not cause me to think that I would be seeing one in my house. I wanted to hear great things but...:(

As far as laser goes, fours years ago I bought an expensive TV with claimed new technology and the best possible picture. It was a Sony Qualia SXRD. How's that decision turning out?

I agree with your implied comment, Sofer. I won't be buying any first-out new technology TV's in the future. I have a first generation 50" Samsung DLP in an auxilliary location (which the Q superseeded) that I paid $4K for in 2003. It's still working and I'll keep it until it breaks (except for lamps), despite lousy contrast ratio. When I do, it will be replaced with something that has been around for a couple of years. I think picture quality for the well-established technologies has reached the point of diminishing returns, where double the price yeilds a 10% improvement in PERCEIVED goodness.

My decision will be based on periphrial items such as the necessity to replace lamps, form factor, and energy consumption. Needless to say, Sony will not be among the contenders since I no longer believe that they compete on price/quality ratios, nor do I trust them. Note that I am talking about a secondary location where the max size I can use is 62". There are a whole bunch of choices in this range. That's why I'm hoping that the Q lasts a few more years. I'd like to go 80" for it's replacement and, at the moment, the only possible contender in a 5-year window for that (at a reasonable cost) is the Mits laservue. UMR looked at my Sammy HLN50 when he was here to do his first Q, and it was really lousy even then. If Mits sticks with the Laservue, I have expectations that by the time they get it to 80", it will be a "good enough" set. I will leave it to others who know more than me, but my opinion is that there is no fundamental reason why a laser-based illumination source cannot be just as good as anything else on the market, once the teething problems are worked out.

I also added a 3-chip DLP front projector for a dedicated 11-ft wide screen home theater a little over a year ago. I'll be moving out of this house and downsizing about the time I'll be wanting to replace it and when that happens, I'm hoping that OLED screens in the 8-ft wide range (2.35) are readily available for the "senior living" facility I'll be in (lol).

Ted99, Ditto to everything you just posted and your view is shared by the majority of Qualia owners, I would guess. My dedicated home theater is wired for FP, but at the time it was completed I didn't want to compromise picture quality over size so I got the Qualia. Now I'm so used to a large picture for all other viewing, I want to stay with a 70-80" set and I'm also hopeful that either an LED LCD or Laservue will be feasible after the Qualia has finally run its course. I will always be concerned if laser technology stays proprietary with only a company or two embracing it. I just don't see OLED reaching large and affordable in the near future, but I wish it would. We seem to be in a strange gap in large set offerings, with the death of RPTVs for the most part and LCDs transitioning over plasma and utilizing LED to overcome the last major performance obstacle that back-lighting was limiting.

Re: Qualia lawsuit. The attorneys have revised the Power of Attorney based on comments on the first draft and have sent it to all those having made prior contact. I knew this was underway when I asked for status back when the XBR class action suit was filed by a California group. I was told then that though the Quallia owner numbers were small, the potential damages were large.

I have signed the new POA and sent it on. My view is that I have nothing to loose, since it seems clear that Sony is going to stonewall we Q owners.

For those of you that have not had prior contact with the attorneys (and they want direct contract, not thru me) you may e-mail Joe House/Mark Wham at mark@showalterlaw.com. They prefer telephone and just use e-mail for transmitting documents. You may want to arrange a telecon by e-mail. The toll-free number I have is 1-800-621-3362. The Admin assistant, if you just want the POA, is len@showalterlaw.com

If I were to sell my Qualia, what should I ask for it (low hours) and also if I were to sell my 70" Sony LCD, what should I ask for it? Just curious what your thoughts are?

If I were to sell my Qualia, what should I ask for it (low hours) and also if I were to sell my 70" Sony LCD, what should I ask for it? Just curious what your thoughts are?

Sent you a PM

If I were to sell my Qualia, what should I ask for it (low hours) and also if I were to sell my 70" Sony LCD, what should I ask for it? Just curious what your thoughts are?

Good question, as for the Q with the whole OB issue hanging over everyone's head (I am assuming you are on the original OB as it is low hours) it becomes a matter of if it will fail within the extended warranty period (and if the replacement has the same flaw) as to whether it is worthwhile to purchase.

It would be interesting to hear people's opinions - unfortunately I fear this is a case of an original technology being flawed and newer technologies coming in at a lower price point. The number that comes to mind is 3500 but I really don't know if that is justifiable - what do others think?

I would be very careful selling a Qualia without full disclosure of the OB problem. Overall, asking one-fourth of the MSRP is not out of line with high-end A/V components, but I agree that prices have declined, so tough market in which to set a price.

On the other hand, large flat screen displays are rare and still expensive so the LCD is a different story. I would ask for 1/3 to 1/2 of MSRP to begin, then settle for 1/4 to 1/3. This is real subjective stuff. Good luck.

so if I keep the Qualia 006 with low hours on it, I guess it would make sense for me to watch the crap out of it before the warranty expires to possibly get the OB replaced, or sell it now while it currently supposedly has no OB problems.

thanks

so if I keep the Qualia 006 with low hours on it, I guess it would make sense for me to watch the crap out of it before the warranty expires to possibly get the OB replaced, or sell it now while it currently supposedly has no OB problems.

thanks

I think We all do this with something New. Don't abuse the product, but use it more & make certain all is right & working during in warranty. TV dont have mechanical parts so that is one less thing to worry about. Less it has built in DVD player.

sorry to deviate from the current topic but i'll be traveling to china in the near future and was wondering whether anyone had any general suggestions but more importantly whether anyone was aware of any tech gadgets that i might want to snag while there? i'll be spending most of my time in and around hong kong...

Possible best practices for prolonging the OB and bulb life.

Go into the setup menu and make the following changes.

Set Power level to reduced power ( This reduces heat and the manual says enhances black level).

Set the system HIGH Altitude ON
(Turns fans on all the time and at a higher speed)

Set Picture Mode to PRO instead of Vivid or Standard
You can use the menu to make picture adjustments to your own selection or use the ones on the first page of the forum until UMR or other certified person can calibrate your set.

Periodically clean the bulb area and vacuum the rear grille areas to allow an adequate flow of air into the set.



What is likely to make more of a difference for OB life, reduced power or the high altitude fans?

I've done all of this but the Power Level to reduced power. I tried it and put it back to standard. I like the enhanced blacks, but reduced power seems to take the zing out of the picture... I clearly preferred it brighter. No point crippling the Qualia to MAYBE extend the OB life. Cripple is probably too strong of a word, what I am trying to say is I paid for the best picture available and that is what I expect. Better 3 years of stunning picture than 3.5 years of mediocre picture. but I want to get the max performance out of it.

I have an Anthem AVM50 with Gennum VXP video processor connected to my Q, all the signals go through it. I tried to make up for the lost brightness in reduced power mode by adjusting the processor and set's brightness settings, but to no avail. Anyone think that between processor + TV settings I can get the image back where it was, but with the reduced power setting?

Put me in the camp of those who refuse to coax longer life out of the Qualia at the expense of compromised picture quality. I'll watch the Qualia like I'll live my life, to the fullest until darkness comes. There's only going to be one of us in this household, so let the good times roll.

Re: Qualia lawsuit. The attorneys have revised the Power of Attorney based on comments on the first draft and have sent it to all those having made prior contact. I knew this was underway when I asked for status back when the XBR class action suit was filed by a California group. I was told then that though the Quallia owner numbers were small, the potential damages were large.

I have signed the new POA and sent it on. My view is that I have nothing to loose, since it seems clear that Sony is going to stonewall we Q owners.

For those of you that have not had prior contact with the attorneys (and they want direct contract, not thru me) you may e-mail Joe House/Mark Wham at mark@showalterlaw.com. They prefer telephone and just use e-mail for transmitting documents. You may want to arrange a telecon by e-mail. The toll-free number I have is 1-800-621-3362. The Admin assistant, if you just want the POA, is len@showalterlaw.com

I can not add much on this very public forum, but I encourage any of you to contact Joe or Mark using the above contact information.

What is likely to make more of a difference for OB life, reduced power or the high altitude fans?

I've done all of this but the Power Level to reduced power. I tried it and put it back to standard. I like the enhanced blacks, but reduced power seems to take the zing out of the picture... I clearly preferred it brighter. No point crippling the Qualia to MAYBE extend the OB life. Cripple is probably too strong of a word, what I am trying to say is I paid for the best picture available and that is what I expect. Better 3 years of stunning picture than 3.5 years of mediocre picture. but I want to get the max performance out of it.

I have an Anthem AVM50 with Gennum VXP video processor connected to my Q, all the signals go through it. I tried to make up for the lost brightness in reduced power mode by adjusting the processor and set's brightness settings, but to no avail. Anyone think that between processor + TV settings I can get the image back where it was, but with the reduced power setting?

Well, it might help, but then it might not. Mine has been in low power, high altitude since day one. I'm in FL, so you would think it would help. However, I do watch the thing (about 2000 hours a year). I have had the OB replaced twice so far (so this is the third one in the set). It is also on a UPS. I do run with the Iris closed though. I have been leaving it open except for movies and already am seeing degradation (only a few months)... Please note that since I hve DTV it has a gray screen between channels and I am very sensitive to uniformity issues... YMMV

Well, it might help, but then it might not. Mine has been in low power, high altitude since day one. I'm in FL, so you would think it would help. However, I do watch the thing (about 2000 hours a year). I have had the OB replaced twice so far (so this is the third one in the set). It is also on a UPS. I do run with the Iris closed though. I have been leaving it open except for movies and already am seeing degradation (only a few months)... Please note that since I hve DTV it has a gray screen between channels and I am very sensitive to uniformity issues... YMMV

You brought up some ideas and events I was unaware of on the Qualia.

I was unaware there was a mechanical Iris control.
How do you control the Iris ?

The degradation you mention is the bulb not the OB correct ?
What do you see or how are you measuring the loss ?

You brought up some ideas and events I was unaware of on the Qualia.

I was unaware there was a mechanical Iris control.
How do you control the Iris ?

The degradation you mention is the bulb not the OB correct ?
What do you see or how are you measuring the loss ?

Go into the advanced menu and turn Cinima Black Pro on/off. If you have good ears you will hear the iris change positions. No auto, or variable like the newer sets (though it might be adjustable in the service menu - I don't know).

No, I have degredation in the OB. Mine has always been the same. The center becomes different than the outer edges. The center becomes more yellow and the outer edges become more blue. It is possible this has something to do with the iris which is why I turned it off (open). However, since it is again barely starting to show (not visible in normal programming material yet), I believe it's not the iris either. Thus whatever is causing the OB deterioration, it's probably due to a combination of things, but not exclusivly the iris, fan speed, or bulb power setting (since I have all these set to the conservative side now since the last OB change). Again YMMV ! ...

82" inches for $4,200. (http://i.gizmodo.com/5203495/mitsubishi-wd+82737-82+inch-3d+ready-tv-for-4200)

Doubtful it'll live up to the 4+ year old picture on the Q006 (but no OB issues in DLP) :rolleyes:

has anyone else watched Slum Dog Millionaire blue ray on the Q006 and discovered terrible picture quality? I'm just wondering if the source was as bad as it appeared to me.

Regarding the 82" Mits, I called Moda Home Theater today and they said they were expecting to have one on display in about one month from now- they said it will definitely be superior in pq to the current 73" Diamond Series. They said the 6 color wheel diminishes the rainbow effect. I will be curious to see what the $1000.00 difference is between the 82737 and the 82837. Man when I heard the news about this set I felt like my prayers were answered! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this will have good blacks and not be too big for my seating position. By the way, I saw a 55" Samsung LCD flat panel with LED back lighting- it was literally 1 inch thick and when viewing from a distance, the picture was amazing- blacks looked as deep as the bezel and it was unbelievably 3 dimensional. It was however $3500.00, but it seemed to blow away everything else on display.

has anyone else watched Slum Dog Millionaire blue ray on the Q006 and discovered terrible picture quality? I'm just wondering if the source was as bad as it appeared to me.

Looks very good on my SXRD XBR1 60".

82" inches for $4,200. (http://i.gizmodo.com/5203495/mitsubishi-wd+82737-82+inch-3d+ready-tv-for-4200)

Doubtful it'll live up to the 4+ year old picture on the Q006 (but no OB issues in DLP) :rolleyes:

Yeah, none of that single color crap...they give you the whole rainbow! :eek:

has anyone else watched Slum Dog Millionaire blue ray on the Q006 and discovered terrible picture quality? I'm just wondering if the source was as bad as it appeared to me.

We have it from Netflix and have not watched it yet. What should I look for to observe the "terrible picture quality" you mentioned?

We have it from Netflix and have not watched it yet. What should I look for to observe the "terrible picture quality" you mentioned?

Just alot of noise in the darkest colors especially blacks and then alot of grain throughout and the whites were a bit on the reddish side of the spectrum. For some reason orange comes to mind when I think overall hue of the film. Also a little soft if not smeared when it comes to the bright colorful scenes. Just my impression with my set. Just not a polished video presentation. The audio was pretty amazing though and the content of the film was excellent.

Just alot of noise in the darkest colors especially blacks and then alot of grain throughout and the whites were a bit on the reddish side of the spectrum. For some reason orange comes to mind when I think overall hue of the film. Also a little soft if not smeared when it comes to the bright colorful scenes. Just my impression with my set. Just not a polished video presentation. The audio was pretty amazing though and the content of the film was excellent.
That was the director's intention...It looked that way in the theater. :rolleyes:

If you haven't seen In the Electric Mist yet, it is a blue ray that has excellent video and audio- definitely demo worthy in those departments-

So for the price of an OB replacement, you could buy a new 82" Mits, a Blu-ray player and about two dozen Blu-ray discs. Sad.

Now come up with a 3 chip design and we could be talking about something here.

Comment on running the "High Altitude" and the "Power Saver" mode...

I just had my OB replaced and I'm now at least running the High Altitude mode all the time. You can hear the fan kick up a notch. I was going to run in Power Saver mode as well, but I can't get a bright enough picture out of it to do that. Could be the older bulb I'm using.

One thing I did notice is that with High Altitude, the Power Saver mode slows down the fans.

So until someone puts a probe in the TV and takes measurements, I'm not sure I can deal with the Power Saver mode. I can deal with the High Altitude though. Oh, and when the tech replaces the OB, work with him, asking for any part you can use compressed air on to clean off the dust.

Will someone please tell me who or what UMR is and how can I get in touch? I live in Colorado. Thanks,
David

The yellow green area on the Memory Stick screen continues to grow and has reached a point where it looks like it is time to consider replacement of the OB. At this point in time how do you recommend I proceed? I can contact the LasVegas store where I purchased the set or find a concierge on line. Should I have the set calibrated at the same time? Is there someone who might be best to contact to perform the service or does Sony provide the service personnel? I'm sure this is routine for some of you so any suggestions will be appreciated.
Thanks,
David

I did not see this on here but the BD-30 has a firmware update to 2.8 now.

Panasonic BD30 Firmware (http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/bd/download/bd30/north_america/index.html)

Will someone please tell me who or what UMR is and how can I get in touch? I live in Colorado. Thanks,
David

More information on my services are available at www.accucalhd.com. I will be in the Denver area in May.

This weekend I had the opportunity to see the new 65" Mits laser set and it seemed to look pretty good! That is until I happened upon the Sharp 65" Limited Edition LCD- I put Apocalypto into the Denon BR player and our jaws dropped to the floor- it redefined "looking through a window" ! Unfortunately, the list price on this set is $15,000.00. It is literally one inch thick as well. Just thought someone here may be interested in what I saw. This Sharp LCD is definitely my new benchmark set.

This weekend I had the opportunity to see the new 65" Mits laser set and it seemed to look pretty good! That is until I happened upon the Sharp 65" Limited Edition LCD- I put Apocalypto into the Denon BR player and our jaws dropped to the floor- it redefined "looking through a window" ! Unfortunately, the list price on this set is $15,000.00. It is literally one inch thick as well. Just thought someone here may be interested in what I saw. This Sharp LCD is definitely my new benchmark set.


Good news but it will be a long time before I jump on an all new high tech set again! :D

Thanks Parrish for the review - so the Sharp 65" buried the Laser? Any specifics you can think of? I was really hoping that the Laser was the next big thing (since it is cheap and scalable to large sizes) but then again this is first gen maybe they can push it further.

Thanks Parrish for the review - so the Sharp 65" buried the Laser? Any specifics you can think of? I was really hoping that the Laser was the next big thing (since it is cheap and scalable to large sizes) but then again this is first gen maybe they can push it further.

To be honest, I was very impressed by the Mits 65" laser- enough so that I was tempted to take the salesman up on the deal he made me- even though it is smaller than my Q006 it looked good enough for me to consider downsizing- I took BRs and DVDs and spent at least 45 minutes with the mits. Up close to the screen there was green/red mosquito noise- but when you back off 3 or more feet from the screen, it looks very film like and the blacks were excellent- very 3 dimensional- and no bulbs to ever hassle with. Then on the way out of the store, I happened upon the Sharp LE 65" LCD which they have as far away from all other sets as possible! The aesthetics are to die for (definitely bests the Q006 aesthetics ). The picture quality of the Sharp was to die for- I got the same feeling that I had when I first saw the Q006 in the showroom- "how could a television set look any better than this?!!" "If I just had access to set with picture quality like this, I would be the happiest man in the world". It was, to make this simple, absolutely Sharp- the colors were absolutely lush and pleasing and the blacks appeared dark and inky as you could ever hope for- supplementing all of these great qualities was the unbelievable contrast of the picture- everything in the picture seemed to exist separately within the picture and had its own texture- leaves had realistic color and sheen and looked so much like real leaves in the jungle while human skin looked so much like real skin that you could associate what it would feel like if you touched it. I'll stop now so as not to sound like a fanatic- What bothers me is that I know there is already better technology and picture quality out there that U.S. consumers don't have access to- e.g. Sony displayed an 82" LCD with 4K x 2K resolution at last years CES and in Japan, this year consumers will be able to purchase a set with 4K resolution and yet we will have to wait years to be able to have that level of technological quality- maybe I should move to Japan. Thanks for listening to me!
Parrish

Thanks for the elaboration that gives me a better idea - so the LaserVue is a Q killer but the Sharp is a LaserVue killer :). No wonder they keep it far away - it would kill many a sale as people think hmm maybe in 2 years this will drop down to sub 5k...

Thanks for the elaboration that gives me a better idea - so the LaserVue is a Q killer but the Sharp is a LaserVue killer :). No wonder they keep it far away - it would kill many a sale as people think hmm maybe in 2 years this will drop down to sub 5k...

That is a very good summarization of my findings! I will continue to fill you in as I continue my quest of finding a perfect and affordable tv!

Hello ALL:

Does anyone use their QAM tuner(s) with a direct ComCast cable feed? I wonder if the Digital Audio (Optical) output will send DD 5.1 to my proc. if the network has it on "In The Clear" HD stations.

I ask as I have had an HD box that I am paying for for YEARS on the Qualia and have used it only a few times. As I have said before, we use the Q about 99% of the time for BluRay movies only. So, I thought that I could get rid of the Comcast Box and hook up to the QAM tuners and hope I get a 5.1 feed on the Network stations. At one time, someone said I would only get 2ch stereo if I did that, but I do not see why.

TIA

Hello ALL:

Does anyone use their QAM tuner(s) with a direct ComCast cable feed? I wonder if the Digital Audio (Optical) output will send DD 5.1 to my proc. if the network has it on "In The Clear" HD stations.

I ask as I have had an HD box that I am paying for for YEARS on the Qualia and have used it only a few times. As I have said before, we use the Q about 99% of the time for BluRay movies only. So, I thought that I could get rid of the Comcast Box and hook up to the QAM tuners and hope I get a 5.1 feed on the Network stations. At one time, someone said I would only get 2ch stereo if I did that, but I do not see why.

TIA

I had the Govt digital coupons for converter boxes, but returned them because I couldn't find a converter box that gave anything other than a low res analog video and stereo audio output ( yellow, red and white RCA jacks). I have two HD TV's that came without the QAM tuners. It seems that the converter box people have neglected anything except the old NTSC analog market. Anybody know of a suitable box with HD component/HDMI output? At present, both are using rental Direc TV boxes, but I don't use the TV's for anything except local broadcasts, for which OTA would be fine, but for the lack of internal QAM tuners.

I had the Govt digital coupons for converter boxes, but returned them because I couldn't find a converter box that gave anything other than a low res analog video and stereo audio output ( yellow, red and white RCA jacks). I have two HD TV's that came without the QAM tuners. It seems that the converter box people have neglected anything except the old NTSC analog market. Anybody know of a suitable box with HD component/HDMI output? At present, both are using rental Direc TV boxes, but I don't use the TV's for anything except local broadcasts, for which OTA would be fine, but for the lack of internal QAM tuners.

Are they only HD monitors ?

What type of signal input jacks are on them ?

I ended up selling my Q back to Sony, but of course they didn't want their $1500 stand that only works with their lemon set. So it is for sale if anyone is interested, I think $300 not including shipping is a fair price, but if you think i'm nuts and you still want the stand let me know what you believe to be fair market value i'm open to any offers. Will also throw in brand new lamp with zero hours which is worth $300 by itself.

Stand is Flawless pics attached.

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Will also throw in Sony NAVITUS RM-NX7000 color touch screen remote, which when i purchased was $700. pics attached

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Serious inquires only

endersxenocide@hotmail.com

Remote has tactile feedback, very cewl. :cool:

http://reviews.cnet.com/remote-controls/sony-rm-nx7000/4505-7900_7-31283902.html

Why not just keep the stand? The first one I got was slightly damaged and it was too expensive to return, so the vendor told me to keep it. I gave it to someone and it worked with their non-Q set. I assume you just don't need it in another room where you live, and $300 is really cheap. The shipping costs outside of a local sale will be costly. Good luck.

Hence the reason for the discounted price, to offset shipping. Don't forget about the remote and the new bulb, so even with shipping its an amazing deal.

Are they only HD monitors ?

What type of signal input jacks are on them ?

One is a first generation 720P Samsung RP still going strong with analog YPrPb and DVI inputs. The other is Phillips 1080i CRT with analog YPrPb inputs.

has anyone else watched Slum Dog Millionaire blue ray on the Q006 and discovered terrible picture quality? I'm just wondering if the source was as bad as it appeared to me.

We just watched last night. I would not say the picture was terrible, but in a few places there was quite a bit of noise. Also, a lot of scenes seemed to have a bit too much yellow. However, this seemed like it was a BlueRay DVD rather than the Q issue.

I am thinking of selling my Sony Qualia. We are moving to a smaller place and need the room. It is in mint condition and I will add a brand new bulb in the box.
It does not have speakers...when they delivered it the speaker were off the unit and I never went and got them. I can still do so if you want the speakers. I think it makes the unit too big.
I would rather sell it on here since you all know what a 'Qualia' is. The set is still on an extended warranty.
Email me at dreaux88@gmail.com with any questions.
I live in Silver Spring Maryland.
Jim

Just a suggestion - you might as well pick up the speakers (it can't hurt). While I imagine most of us don't use our speakers its nice to have that option (if for instance the Q becomes a secondary tv without an entertainment system) or if you want to use it for more late night viewing and don't want to use a whole surround sound system. I just keep my speakers stored away personally. I agree they make the tv look a bit large and of course they don't match any surround sound system.

Also you may want to mention whether you have a stand (it would be an interesting twist if someone on here picked up the tv and stand separately from this thread).

Just a suggestion - you might as well pick up the speakers (it can't hurt). While I imagine most of us don't use our speakers its nice to have that option (if for instance the Q becomes a secondary tv without an entertainment system) or if you want to use it for more late night viewing and don't want to use a whole surround sound system. I just keep my speakers stored away personally. I agree they make the tv look a bit large and of course they don't match any surround sound system.

Also you may want to mention whether you have a stand (it would be an interesting twist if someone on here picked up the tv and stand separately from this thread).

Yeah you are right...I will call them and see if they can deliver them. I have this sinking feeling they will not be able to find the speakers.
I do have a stand for the set (a nice one that can hold that weight).

Another thread on this forum is reporting some details on a second generation Mits Laserview in up to 75" size and due about the end of this year. No pricing info. Should be interesting if Laser can progress at the same rate as LCD's have. We have reporting on this thread that Sharp's latest LCD is better than first gen Laserview, which is better than our Q's. Clearly, better TV's than our Q's are finally coming in the size that obviously interested us.

Hey guys- just to update you on my issue with my Q006- Since last time the Sony service company Qualixerve came out and the guy took one look at the menus to look for green blob and said "oh no- your ob is fine" and left, UMR was at my house last week and said that the gray scale is definitely all messed up due to the set being in failure mode- he said at the bright end of the spectrum he sees blue and at the darker end of the spectrum he sees yellow/ purple- I called Sony Qualia back and told them about UMR's findings and they said they would have another service company call and come out to investigate the gray scale problem. I am still waiting for the call, but am hoping that this time they will detect a problem that can be fixed! It is such a travesty that this huge, beautiful, expensive beast that I have pampered from the very beginning is so unpleasing in pq- there is no way that in the showroom when I decided to buy this set, that if looked exactly the same as it does now. I am on the second lamp and only because I didn't wait for the first one to fail- does that tell you how many hours I probably have on it. Anyway- I felt obligated to inform you all as fellow qualia owners.

Parrish

Hey guys- just to update you on my issue with my Q006- Since last time the Sony service company Qualixerve came out and the guy took one look at the menus to look for green blob and said "oh no- your ob is fine" and left, UMR was at my house last week and said that the gray scale is definitely all messed up due to the set being in failure mode- he said at the bright end of the spectrum he sees blue and at the darker end of the spectrum he sees yellow/ purple- I called Sony Qualia back and told them about UMR's findings and they said they would have another service company call and come out to investigate the gray scale problem. I am still waiting for the call, but am hoping that this time they will detect a problem that can be fixed! It is such a travesty that this huge, beautiful, expensive beast that I have pampered from the very beginning is so unpleasing in pq- there is no way that in the showroom when I decided to buy this set, that if looked exactly the same as it does now. I am on the second lamp and only because I didn't wait for the first one to fail- does that tell you how many hours I probably have on it. Anyway- I felt obligated to inform you all as fellow qualia owners.

Parrish

Interesting Parrish, keep us in the loop on your dealings on this. UMR is the best, so undoubtedly you did the right thing having more definitive evidence from him. Hopefully, the Sony-sponsored service tech from QualX takes care of you.

I am still running on my replacement Optical block from October last year. I think I need a new lamp as things are getting dim again, but other than that, no resurgence of the dreaded "greenish/yellowish blob" that I had before. The Red Sox are more or less in full glory on the set, minus a little 'pop' that a new lamp should remedy.

I swear, we should all be used by some large company as a focus group for marketing studies on exactly what to deliver to the high end market and how to treat customers right who invest in a product and long to be loyal to a vendor. We are a perfect use case for how NOT to treat customers, and for how a good dependable company could earn a pretty penny just by standing by their top of the line product and caring about their reputation in the industry.

If I were still in start-up mode, I would seriously consider starting a company based on this thesis. Some day some company is gonna figure it out, and the rest are gonna be left for dead on the side of the road. I can only hope anyway....

Cheers!
Brian

Hi All,

I bought a Qualia 006 last year and also got a replacement bulb because the picture was very dim. After the new bulb was put in, within days, the new bulb just busted(shattered in bits/pieces). I called the company that sold me the bulb and got a new one, after 3 months, this bulb busted too.

What do you guys think is wrong with my set? Should I buy an original Sony bulb? The picture was the best I've seen on any RP and I would hate to dump this TV.

Thanks in advance.

Le

Has anyone ever experienced an XL5000 bulb that doesn't have the proper 'plug' for the Q? I've received two now from DLPLampSource, but neither work, and the company has been a huge pain to work with. The edges of the plug seem to be a bit too square or something... :confused: I've attached a picture below. The old lamp's plug is on the top, the new one on the bottom, and it just won't fit.

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/5180/plugs.jpg

I got one from DLPLampSource and the plugs just won't fit. I had to swap out the new with the old plugs.http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/images/icons/icon9.gif

le140 i think you have your answer...you are using a bulb that was not intended for the Q as evidenced by the wrong plugs...

dd,

hope everything is going well for you and minidive...

please post something so that i know you are doing ok...

Ben,

But it worked for 3 months before it exploded again? So could it still be a wrong bulb? Could anyone recommend an Xl5000 bulb and vendor?

thanks,
Le

Ben,

But it worked for 3 months before it exploded again? So could it still be a wrong bulb? Could anyone recommend an Xl5000 bulb and vendor?

thanks,
LeI can get the Sony bulbs

Ben,

But it worked for 3 months before it exploded again? So could it still be a wrong bulb? Could anyone recommend an Xl5000 bulb and vendor?

thanks,
Le

Le,

Check the first post in this thread.

Ben,

But it worked for 3 months before it exploded again? So could it still be a wrong bulb? Could anyone recommend an Xl5000 bulb and vendor?

thanks,
Le

Have you checked to make sure your fan is running and free of obstructions? Lack of cooling could reduce the bulbs life I suppose. You could also try the high altitude mode.