Just a quick message to thank Cocchi and his wife, Candice, for the stand, bulb and remote referenced at the top of page 517.
Dave

Hey guys,

Anybody use a Sling Player? What are your thoughts?

First time poster, long time viewer, just never registered. I bought my Q about 4 years ago and up until recently I have had only to replace the bulb twice with no problems. The last lamp started to dim a little bit with some discoloration so I purchased 2 new ones (I always keep a spare for emergencies). After I put the new one in it looked just as bad so I installed the other one thinking maybe they sent a bad bulb. It was the same as the first. I lived with it for awhile and then things really went nuts.
I read almost all 500+ pages, very carefully cleaned the inside optics and resolution like some of the posts and came to this conclusion:
I did the OB test and my screen is not white or gray, but greenish yellow. All stations and DVD's are the same greenish yellow. I guess I have a bad OB right? Do I call the place I bought it from here in Tulsa, OK or do I call the Sony number? Thanks for the help, lots of great info here.

Sorry to say, it definitely sounds like a bad OB. Call Sony. Good luck!

Hey guys- I don't want to speak too soon, but I think my prayers have been answered! Sony had a second tech come out after the first refused to replace my ob and this time the guy agreed with me about the need to have it replaced! I am so happy to finally have this opportunity to regain the picture quality of this set! Keep your fingers crossed for me that it goes in and solves my problem! The tech assured me that once the ob is installed, it will look new again!

Has anyone had a calibration done before OB replacement, and after? Did it spec out the same after OB replacement?

Has anyone had a calibration done before OB replacement, and after? Did it spec out the same after OB replacement?I have done it. The OB with problems significantly skews the calibration, the new OB had different settings from the original calibration. A new bulb can change calibration as well.

Thank you for the quick answer, I am just so sad it has happened during the playoffs. Oh well thank goodness I have a Samsung upstairs to back it up. Very frustrating, put me in the category off waiting to buy something after it has been out several years before purchasing. Although I was only the second one in Tulsa at the time to have one and oh man was it an attention getter for sports and such.

Hi:
I have a new Sony XL-5000 lamp for sale; I just took inventory and discovered I now have three new lamps.
Asking $195.00 including shipping to lower 48.
Please email: swerdlin-associates@cox.net.
Thanks in advance,
Dave

Well, I got my new OB (60"SXRD XBR1) and so far no issues with color uniformity, blobs, etc. I have to say though that it was a BRAND NEW OB...not a refurished. There has been so much discussion that all of the OBs are refurbished, but I held this one in my hands and really looked it over. Everything part of it was brand new...so there goes that speculation. Nice to have the SXRD looking so good again! For as long as it lasts, I'll take it!

besides the green or yellow issue being corrected, how else would you describe the pq improvement once the new ob is in place? if the ob is indeed a new improved version, does it enhance the pq from what you remember it originally being?

besides the green or yellow issue being corrected, how else would you describe the pq improvement once the new ob is in place? if the ob is indeed a new improved version, does it enhance the pq from what you remember it originally being?
The blacks seem a tad more crushed, and the color needs to be turned down quite a bit. It is still as sharp as ever. I'll take this PQ over the yellow and green problems anyday...for as long as it lasts.

Hi to all...

Apple is making us "pioneers" retire all the original dotMac websites we created. As a result, I've taken the bulk of my Q006 website and migrated it to a new location.

One item is new; I've posted a full PDF of the factory service manual.

Happy Memorial Day to all,

Ray
http://web.me.com/raythompson/Sony_Qualia_006/HOME.html

Hi to all...

Apple is making us "pioneers" retire all the original dotMac websites we created. As a result, I've taken the bulk of my Q006 website and migrated it to a new location.

One item is new; I've posted a full PDF of the factory service manual.


Thanks Ray. Post #1 has been updated with the proper links.

I believe the PQ of my replaced OB is better than the original. Unfortunately, I never did prof. calibration, so I have to go by the old eyeball test.

FWIW, I'm on my fourth lamp. One got dim, another exploded, but the third was different. It still had some light output left, but it cycled on and off every thirty seconds to a minute. The on/off LED blinked green during the "off" mode. Qualia service and support had no answer, so I just changed the bulb. My local Sony tech, who had replaced the OB, was unavailable as his area near Daytona Beach was under near Biblical flooding. After cleaning the lamp cavity, the new bulb once again showed that the Qualia still had great PQ left in her.

Looks like the green monster is trying to return again, just starting to see a hint of greenish yellow color on the corner of my Q again. Had the original OB replaced last year.
Hope everybody had a great Memorial Day.

Hey guys,
tomorrow at 10am I am getting my first new o.b. replaced! I hope and pray my satisfaction with pq will be restored! I also hope that it will last more than a year before it goes south on me again!

MJW2095-
May I ask what your viewing schedule has been like during the last year? How many hours per week have you been averaging on this latest OB? The tech I talked to mentioned that the lens gets warped due to heat which causes the ob to fail in most cases.

When transferring everything over to my new Qualia website, I couldn't resist modifying the photos ever so slightly...

Parrish,
I have been averaging about 35hrs a week.

When transferring everything over to my new Qualia website, I couldn't resist modifying the photos ever so slightly...

I like it...OH, brt3, did you get my PM?

Parrish,
I have been averaging about 35hrs a week.

I think over that last 2 years I averaged a few hours per week, but now after moving the set into my bedroom I anticipate viewing approximately 35 hours per week as well! I got the new ob in place and the vibrancy, depth and color accuracy seems to be back, although I'm not sure if I can say it is as good or better than it was in the very beginning! However, I watched ota hd last night for a few hours and it captivated my attention much more than before the ob replacement. I do want to mention though that after examining the new ob compared to the old ob, the serial number on the old one was 2000248 and the number on the new one was 2000233! So, I'm not really sure whether my replacement ob is refurbished or one that was just never put into a set- but it was definitely manufactured prior to the one being replaced! What opinions do you all have about this? At this point, I think I am happy again- I just hope it lasts!

I think over that last 2 years I averaged a few hours per week, but now after moving the set into my bedroom I anticipate viewing approximately 35 hours per week as well! I got the new ob in place and the vibrancy, depth and color accuracy seems to be back, although I'm not sure if I can say it is as good or better than it was in the very beginning! However, I watched ota hd last night for a few hours and it captivated my attention much more than before the ob replacement. I do want to mention though that after examining the new ob compared to the old ob, the serial number on the old one was 2000248 and the number on the new one was 2000233! So, I'm not really sure whether my replacement ob is refurbished or one that was just never put into a set- but it was definitely manufactured prior to the one being replaced! What opinions do you all have about this? At this point, I think I am happy again- I just hope it lasts!


Well,
I watched golf, hockey and tennis over the weekend and I have to say that the picture quality was pretty impressive- it seems as though my original calibration settings in Pro mode still work pretty well with the new ob. The blacks are definitely improved upon now- I just can't get over how bad the set had gotten over time! Now all I can think about, unfortunately is how long before the deterioration takes place again. I'm trying just to enjoy the improvement for now. I want to respond to Sony and thank them for standing behind me and my Qualia 006- maybe I'll wait another week or so just to make sure everything is still kosher!

Next week I'll be attending the InfoComm show in Orlando. All of the major display companies will be there. If anyone has a model they want me to ckeck out or questions they would like me to ask, let me know. I'm primarily interersted in an LED LCD set for another room, and any news on the prospects of a 70-80"er going forward in a couple of years if the Q gives out.

Thanks, Sofer. I'm interested in 73-80" RPTV with something other than the current projection lamps. I say RPTV because it's the most cost-effective at these sizes and the "thinness" of flat panel really doesn't matter if one is going to put decent speakers to each side. I do not want to be tied to hi-wattage 2000 hr-life lamps that dim to 50% after only a few months and mess up callibration. So, will LED lamps be able to illuminate this large a picture? I see many great leaps in LED-based streetlamps; so I'd guess that it's not out of the question. Has Mits worked out the kinks in laser lighting with plans to replace the lamps in their large RPTV's with laser?

Second topic: Does anyone have any plans to produce a large flat panel or RPTV with 2.37 aspect ratio?

Hey guys- I thought you might be interested in knowing that only due to the problems I have been having with my Qualia 006 I ended up buying a Pioneer Signature Elite Kuro 141fd 60" plasma display to replace the Q for watching bluray and I couldn't be happier! The difference in size has absolutely not been an issue due to the improvement in picture quality and especially the blacks! I would highly recommend considering one of these displays before you are unable to get one anymore! Also, the Panasonic Premiere 65" Plasma would also be an exceptional choice!

Thanks, Sofer. I'm interested in 73-80" RPTV with something other than the current projection lamps. I say RPTV because it's the most cost-effective at these sizes and the "thinness" of flat panel really doesn't matter if one is going to put decent speakers to each side. I do not want to be tied to hi-wattage 2000 hr-life lamps that dim to 50% after only a few months and mess up callibration. So, will LED lamps be able to illuminate this large a picture? I see many great leaps in LED-based streetlamps; so I'd guess that it's not out of the question. Has Mits worked out the kinks in laser lighting with plans to replace the lamps in their large RPTV's with laser?

Second topic: Does anyone have any plans to produce a large flat panel or RPTV with 2.37 aspect ratio?

Yeah, that's also what I will want, eventually at the death of the Q. It looks like Mits has a lower cost DLP based RPTV (large, not laser), but it isn't LED back-lit. I'm kind of surprised the Samsung DLP/LED sets didn't fill this niche. Samsung, Sony, LG, Sharp, Mits, Hitachi, among others are all displaying at the show. I'm pressing for details, details, details.

Hey guys- I thought you might be interested in knowing that only due to the problems I have been having with my Qualia 006 I ended up buying a Pioneer Signature Elite Kuro 141fd 60" plasma display to replace the Q for watching bluray and I couldn't be happier! The difference in size has absolutely not been an issue due to the improvement in picture quality and especially the blacks! I would highly recommend considering one of these displays before you are unable to get one anymore! Also, the Panasonic Premiere 65" Plasma would also be an exceptional choice!

Congrats on the Kuro. It's a great set and probably the best picture in history. Maybe someday LCD technology will match the contrast and blacks of these sets, I hope sometime soon. I actually believe that in most real world environments the newest LCDs are just about there, but the Kuros are amazing. Maybe the future Panasonics will incorporate Kuro magic; after all, apparently the company hired dozens of Pioneer's best people.

Next week I'll be attending the InfoComm show in Orlando. All of the major display companies will be there. If anyone has a model they want me to ckeck out or questions they would like me to ask, let me know. I'm primarily interersted in an LED LCD set for another room, and any news on the prospects of a 70-80"er going forward in a couple of years if the Q gives out.

For what it's worth. No flaming please

Held my own marathon viewing of all the better sets available today.
Spent several hours viewing the high end of all the major lines and compared what I saw to my Qualia. Here is what I saw and what I think.

Panasonic Plasma OK. Nothing exceptional. Looked better than the LCD sets. And better than the new Samsung "LED" sets.
The Pioneer Kuros were good but not better than the Qualia except in the area of the blacks. The Qualia was more real and had less of the effect of viewing a screen.
The Mitsibishi Laser set was a disappointment. Vivid colors but when watching you are aware of a lot of " noise " in the picture. Very distracting.
The 70 inch Sony LCD ($19,900 MSRP) was gorgeous. Best of all I saw except for the JVC projector.
The JVC was the best projector I have ever seen. ($7500.00 )
Blew ALL the Sony SXRD projectors out of the water. I have to have one. Only problem was I viewed it on a Stewart curved 130' screen that was $19,900 and the Anamorphic lens for 235:1 was $7500.00
.

For what it's worth. No flaming please

Held my own marathon viewing of all the better sets available today.
Spent several hours viewing the high end of all the major lines and compared what I saw to my Qualia. Here is what I saw and what I think.

Panasonic Plasma OK. Nothing exceptional. Looked better than the LCD sets. And better than the new Samsung "LED" sets.
The Pioneer Kuros were good but not better than the Qualia except in the area of the blacks. The Qualia was more real and had less of the effect of viewing a screen.
The Mitsibishi Laser set was a disappointment. Vivid colors but when watching you are aware of a lot of " noise " in the picture. Very distracting.
The 70 inch Sony LCD ($19,900 MSRP) was gorgeous. Best of all I saw except for the JVC projector.
The JVC was the best projector I have ever seen. ($7500.00 )
Blew ALL the Sony SXRD projectors out of the water. I have to have one. Only problem was I viewed it on a Stewart curved 130' screen that was $19,900 and the Anamorphic lens for 235:1 was $7500.00
.


thestewman

No flame from me; even if I don't necessarily see eye to eye, I respect the right to one's own observations. FWIW, I agree with all of your assessments, except I haven't been able to compare the recent JVC and SXRD models, but all of the reviews seem to support your conclusion. Where was everything you checked out?

No flame from me; even if I don't necessarily see eye to eye, I respect the right to one's own observations. FWIW, I agree with all of your assessments, except I haven't been able to compare the recent JVC and SXRD models, but all of the reviews seem to support your conclusion. Where was everything you checked out?

ABT Electronics, Glenview,IL

No flame from me; even if I don't necessarily see eye to eye, I respect the right to one's own observations. FWIW, I agree with all of your assessments, except I haven't been able to compare the recent JVC and SXRD models, but all of the reviews seem to support your conclusion. Where was everything you checked out?

ABT Electronics, Glenview,IL


Through the years I've bought stuff from ABT. There's no place anywhere near where I live with that kind of selection under roof. At least I'll see most of the goods at the InfoComm show on Friday.

BD-30 owners, f/w v2.9 is up (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1064552):

I am so sorry to forward this email that I just got........

Gary Nachtigal (divedude) wanted me to notify you if he died. He died on
5-18-09 from complications with cancer but I misplaced your email
address until today. He said to "let my friends on the AVS Qualia Forum
know that divedude went for that wonderful last dive." Today is Gary's
birthday so I guess it is a good day to remember him. Please let
everyone on the Forum know of Gary's passing.

I was afraid of this as we had not swapped email in a bit!

So sorry,

Dave...AKA MPSAN

I am so sorry to forward this email that I just got........

Gary Nachtigal (divedude) wanted me to notify you if he died. He died on
5-18-09 from complications with cancer but I misplaced your email
address until today. He said to "let my friends on the AVS Qualia Forum
know that divedude went for that wonderful last dive." Today is Gary's
birthday so I guess it is a good day to remember him. Please let
everyone on the Forum know of Gary's passing.

I was afraid of this as we had not swapped email in a bit!

So sorry,

Dave...AKA MPSAN

I would like to extend my deepest sympathies and condolences to Gary's family and friends. He was the heart and soul of this thread and will not be forgotten by those of us fortunate enough to have known him.

I would like to extend my deepest sympathies and condolences to Gary's family and friends. He was the heart and soul of this thread and will not be forgotten by those of us fortunate enough to have known him.

I feel a large sadness on hearing of Gary's passing away. Never having personally met Gary there was a closeness developed over the last 5 years developed here on the AVS Forum. My deepest sympathy and regards to his family and friends

Stew

I am so sorry to forward this email that I just got........

Gary Nachtigal (divedude) wanted me to notify you if he died. He died on
5-18-09 from complications with cancer but I misplaced your email
address until today. He said to "let my friends on the AVS Qualia Forum
know that divedude went for that wonderful last dive." Today is Gary's
birthday so I guess it is a good day to remember him. Please let
everyone on the Forum know of Gary's passing.

I was afraid of this as we had not swapped email in a bit!

So sorry,

Dave...AKA MPSAN

Farewell dear AVS friend ... I hope that the waters you now dive in are are as warm and deep as you no doubt were throughout your life. Hope to see you one day in those crystal blue waters!

I offer my heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all who had the pleasure of knowing Gary.

Farewell dear AVS friend ... I hope that the waters you now dive in are are as warm and deep as you no doubt were throughout your life. Hope to see you one day in those crystal blue waters!

I offer my heartfelt thoughts and prayers to all who had the pleasure of knowing Gary.

I couldn't say it any better. I've been more a lurker on this thread, only rarely contributing, but I always enjoyed posts by Gary, united by mutual love of the Qualia and the sea and the deep and cancer battles we face in our family.

Could always tell he was a special person and I have all faith that he resides in a better place now where I hope to see him one day.

Chris

The passing of a good man is always hard on those left behind. My condolences to his family and friends.
Dave

Divedude, Farewell, Thanks for all the input in all Our AVS Forums. Plus the Wonderful Pictures. We are always told to stay on the subject... But a bit of fun, hummer, & imagination, in Pictures has made this forum so unique Thanks to You...

I am so sorry to forward this email that I just got........

Gary Nachtigal (divedude) wanted me to notify you if he died. He died on
5-18-09 from complications with cancer but I misplaced your email
address until today. He said to "let my friends on the AVS Qualia Forum
know that divedude went for that wonderful last dive." Today is Gary's
birthday so I guess it is a good day to remember him. Please let
everyone on the Forum know of Gary's passing.

I was afraid of this as we had not swapped email in a bit!

So sorry,

Dave...AKA MPSAN
I was alerted to the sad news from fellow Qualians on Blu-ray.com as I had hopefully asked about divedude’s *status* on May 22, 2009 – 3 days too late.
http://forum.blu-ray.com/showthread.php?p=1934290&highlight=divedude#post1934290

Farewell my friend and Godspeed –
http://www.underseahunter.com/uh/english/reports/guestbook/guestbook.php?key=1205

Your posts here exemplified the word “enthusiast”.
You will be missed.

P.S.
Mpsan, I do have a wedding coming up to attend in the Dallas area and if you can find out where divedude is buried (if applicable) shoot me a PM and I’ll try to visit and leave an appropriate memento that divedude would appreciate.

I was alerted to the sad news from fellow Qualians on Blu-ray.com as I had hopefully asked about divedude’s *status* on May 22, 2009 – 3 days too late.
http://forum.blu-ray.com/showthread.php?p=1934290&highlight=divedude#post1934290

Farewell my friend and Godspeed –
http://www.underseahunter.com/uh/english/reports/guestbook/guestbook.php?key=1205

Your posts here exemplified the word “enthusiast”.
You will be missed.

P.S.
Mpsan, I do have a wedding coming up to attend in the Dallas area and if you can find out where divedude is buried (if applicable) shoot me a PM and I’ll try to visit and leave an appropriate memento that divedude would appreciate.

OK, I will PM you (again) if I can find out!

RIP divedude. You will always be remembered.

[QUOTE=mpsan;16621496]I am so sorry to forward this email that I just got........

Gary Nachtigal (divedude) wanted me to notify you if he died. He died on
5-18-09 from complications with cancer but I misplaced your email
address until today. He said to "let my friends on the AVS Qualia Forum
know that divedude went for that wonderful last dive." Today is Gary's
birthday so I guess it is a good day to remember him. Please let
everyone on the Forum know of Gary's passing.

Gary was a great guy who made all our lives that much better. Definitely a special guy. Will be missed for sure.

I still consider "Mini-Dive" as the official Qualia mascot.

i still consider "mini-dive" as the official qualia mascot.

+1

+2

I am so sorry to forward this email that I just got........

Gary Nachtigal (divedude) wanted me to notify you if he died. He died on
5-18-09 from complications with cancer but I misplaced your email
address until today. He said to "let my friends on the AVS Qualia Forum
know that divedude went for that wonderful last dive." Today is Gary's
birthday so I guess it is a good day to remember him. Please let
everyone on the Forum know of Gary's passing.

I was afraid of this as we had not swapped email in a bit!

So sorry,

Dave...AKA MPSAN

Sad news indeed.

Divedude,

May you rest in peace. Your good humor and obvious joy in life were palpable to us all. You will be missed for sure.

God Bless You always,
Brian

very sad news indeed, his sense of humor will certainly be missed
Ross

Divedude,
I’m truly sadden to here of the passing of Divedude, You will truly be missed, May you rest in peace.
God Bless Always.

Hello ALL:

I am trying to get 3 TiVo HD units on the Fathers Day special. They have not shipped yet, but wonder if any of you have one on your Q and what output setting you use? Is it AUTO, or 1080i???

It was news to me that Netflix will even stream STARZ even without a subscription!

Anyway, if they will not ship, I may even ask someone for help!

TIA,
Dave

Hello ALL:

I am trying to get 3 TiVo HD units on the Fathers Day special. They have not shipped yet, but wonder if any of you have one on your Q and what output setting you use? Is it AUTO, or 1080i???

It was news to me that Netflix will even stream STARZ even without a subscription!

Anyway, if they will not ship, I may even ask someone for help!

TIA,
Dave

Hi Dave,

I saw that special on Tivo HD's, pretty great deal. Yes, I have a Tivo Series 3 (high end precursor to the Tivo HD, essentially the same box). I use the Native output of my Tivo S3, because it is connected to an Anthem D2, which does the video processing and then the D2 sends it to my Qualia as 1080i/60. But if I were connecting a Tivo HD directly to a Qualia, with nothing in between, I'd probably use Native mode still, and let the Qualia do the de-interlacing and scaling as needed, rather than asking the Tivo to do it. Depends what you watch to some extent, but generally I trust the Qualia's scaling/deinterlacing ability more than the Tivo's...

Congrats by the way! You will LOVE the Tivo HD, great unit, and great content now with Netflix, Amazon Un-box, etc. Cheers!!!

Brian

Hi Dave,

I saw that special on Tivo HD's, pretty great deal. Yes, I have a Tivo Series 3 (high end precursor to the Tivo HD, essentially the same box). I use the Native output of my Tivo S3, because it is connected to an Anthem D2, which does the video processing and then the D2 sends it to my Qualia as 1080i/60. But if I were connecting a Tivo HD directly to a Qualia, with nothing in between, I'd probably use Native mode still, and let the Qualia do the de-interlacing and scaling as needed, rather than asking the Tivo to do it. Depends what you watch to some extent, but generally I trust the Qualia's scaling/deinterlacing ability more than the Tivo's...

Congrats by the way! You will LOVE the Tivo HD, great unit, and great content now with Netflix, Amazon Un-box, etc. Cheers!!!

Brian

Thank you Brian.

OH, I will send you a PM as I have 1 more question...

Hello ALL:

I am trying to get 3 TiVo HD units on the Fathers Day special. They have not shipped yet, but wonder if any of you have one on your Q and what output setting you use? Is it AUTO, or 1080i???

It was news to me that Netflix will even stream STARZ even without a subscription!

Anyway, if they will not ship, I may even ask someone for help!

TIA,
Dave

I use a S3 as well. I have my output set at 1080i. The reason being is that when set to AUTO, you get a flickering adjustment when changing between channels of different output resolutions. I found that annoying.

I use a S3 as well. I have my output set at 1080i. The reason being is that when set to AUTO, you get a flickering adjustment when changing between channels of different output resolutions. I found that annoying.

Yes, that is what I had heard...since we do not surf, perhaps I will try it for the Q.

OK, I just got my TiVo HD ship notice today. I think I will try Native as I do not surf. If it becomes a PITA, I can switch. Is the picture quality any different if we have the Q doing the switching vs. letting the TiVo do it all to avoid the delay?

OK, I got some TiVo HD's on the Fathers Day deal.

I set two up and have no issues. I then put the 3rd one on my Q. I have a Panny BR on HDMI Input 6. All is OK, and has been.

Now, I added the TiVo HD to HDMI input 7 and when I first turned the TiVo on, I got the Powering up Screen. After a few minutes (where it is supposed to say I only had to wait a few more minutes) it switched to Black.

So, I swapped the cable at the Qualia end...6&7 and the TiVo came up! I completed the setup, and all was great. BUT, if I switch back again, I get a black screen. I have tried Native, 1080i, and a bunch of others in the TiVo settings. The TiVo will NOT work on HDMI input 7...6 is OK, and the BR player is also OK on 6 or 7! One thing that I did not do was power the Q off. I did now, and will see if it fixes itself tomorrow, but does anyone have any idea what can be wrong? It does not seem to be an HDMI cable as it works in 6. It is not the TiVo as it too works in 6. The Q port 7 is OK as the BR works there.

Any ideas besides leaving them swapped?

TIA

Hi,

I have two Tivo's, one on a HDMI switch going into "6" and one going into "7" directly. Both setups work fine.

John

OK, I got some TiVo HD's on the Fathers Day deal.

I set two up and have no issues. I then put the 3rd one on my Q. I have a Panny BR on HDMI Input 6. All is OK, and has been.

Now, I added the TiVo HD to HDMI input 7 and when I first turned the TiVo on, I got the Powering up Screen. After a few minutes (where it is supposed to say I only had to wait a few more minutes) it switched to Black.

So, I swapped the cable at the Qualia end...6&7 and the TiVo came up! I completed the setup, and all was great. BUT, if I switch back again, I get a black screen. I have tried Native, 1080i, and a bunch of others in the TiVo settings. The TiVo will NOT work on HDMI input 7...6 is OK, and the BR player is also OK on 6 or 7! One thing that I did not do was power the Q off. I did now, and will see if it fixes itself tomorrow, but does anyone have any idea what can be wrong? It does not seem to be an HDMI cable as it works in 6. It is not the TiVo as it too works in 6. The Q port 7 is OK as the BR works there.

Any ideas besides leaving them swapped?

TIA

aside from powering down and cycling, which i'm sure you'll report back whether that worked, i would suggest instead of swapping cables, leave the tivo on input 7 and switch between inputs, i.e., cycle to input 6 then back again to force a sync/hdmi handshake; another thing i've tried in the past with hdmi issues is to toggle to the memory stick screen and then back to the input in question, once again trying to force a handshake/sync.

I saw some earlier posts on another make of LCOS RPTV which had the cause of their yellow blobs as "burning" on the blue polarizing filter. Could have been from heat or UV. One of the posters was able to replace the blue polarizing filter and cure the problem. Could be our problem, as well. I would expect the green blobs to have been from burning of a different color filter. Anyone have thoughts on this? If this is our problem, it would seem that SONY would be able to improve the filter material (or coating) and do a permanent fix. Perhaps not the first few failures, but now? I wish SONY would speak up about this well-documented problem and let us know what is going on. A continued silence simply leads me to the belief that there is no permanent fix, or they are not doing one.

Thanks, I will turn the Q on again. OH, I did switch from 6 to 7, on the Q, and back and when the TiVo HD is on 7 Nothing works. I will switch to memory stick (I assume I do not need one in there) and then back to 7. As I said, I doubt it is the HDMI cable itself as the TiVo and cable work fine in Input 6.

UPDATE...
Nope...nothing works. I just can not understand why the TiVo on Input 7 will not work, but Input 6 is OK. I would think the Q has a bad input 7 but the BR Player is just fine there! I would switch HDMI cable, but it is the same cable when I try the TiVo on Input 6!

This HDMI TiVo HD issue was strange. All seemed to work. I was going to swap a TiVo HD from another room to see if it was the TiVo...but I thought that would be a lot of work. Following this mornings Q turnon, trying the Memory Stick thingie, etc, nothing worked. I even unplugged the TiVo to force it. As before, the initial screen came on, but after a minute when it switches to "Just a few more minutes to go" it goes black.

I had the TiVo connected to the "bad" input 7 and decided that I would swap the HDMI from the BR. I was lucky that I had left it on Input 7. As soon as I pulled the cable from the BR player, Input 7 worked! I put the cable back into the BR player and port 7 still worked. i tried input 6 and the BR player works...in short it all works now! The only thing I can think of was that the Panny was not letting input 7 handshake even though it was off! Of course are these things ever OFF.

A little late report on infoComm 09. This year the show was huge, geared mostly to commercial/professional clients, but there were still a lot of things to check out, and industry reps and engineers to talk to.

3D seemed to be the newest push. While I love the idea, either because I wear glasses or I'm just spoiled by the great Q picture, the displays to me were underwhelming. Samsung's demonstration of 3D without the need for glasses was impressive, but required a dead-on sweet spot. Still, it showed a lot of promise.

Without being redundant, thestewman's observations of a couple of pages ago is spot on, as far as the current state of displays, except that I preferred the Samsung's LED picture over the Panasonic plasmas. The Premiere series is a different story, though, and may be the best out there right now.

I liked the Samsungs so much that I bought one, sort of. First, I opted for the 55B8000 edge-lit. My wife loved the profile, and she got it for me for Father's Day. Unfortunately, it had the dreaded "dark corners", and it bugged the hell out of me. I just can't help being one of those nit-pickers that just notices or worse yet looks for these kinds of anomalies or defects. I returned the set and had the salesman hook up the replacement in the store. Same thing. So I'm trying the 46 incher, which doesn't seem to have the problem. I'll have it hopefully by this weekend. I considered every other set in the store, but kept coming back to the LED, as much for aesthetics and room tolerance as for PQ. I hope to get my Samsung today or tomorrow, but the store is located next to Daytona International Speedway, and there are races this weekend. If it comes in, I may still try to sneak into the store during the race, which I record anyway. I can pick the set up, go home and set it up, and watch the race before it ends. What a deal.

The Samsung engineer at the show was adamant that 240hz and LED are the real deal, and worth the upgrade. He told me that he advised his own family and friends to either get these sets, or wait for the 9000 LED (not edge-lit and replacing the 950).

I also cornered a Sony rep and talked about the Q. I was told that many in the company were aware of the OB problem (you think?). Also, the person told me that Sony really went all out in the optical/light path department to create a statement "halo" product. Supposedly, a lot of the professional line components went into it. I still hope someday Sony takes care of the Q owners and we get a great deal on that 70/80" LED panel. I also hope the stockmarket rebounds and we soon cure cancer.

Nice review, sofer.

Also, my HDMI Input 7 issue is back. I wonder, for the TiVo HD, does anyone think that using Input 4, Component Video, rather than HDMI 7 would matter with TV and/ot Netflix streaming?

My 46B8000 is ready for pick-up and I'll have it this weekend. I also got a Samsung 1600 BD player and a Polk soundbar. I'm not up for all of the Internet and wireless capabilities of the player, but I am interested in how much difference a soundbar makes in an open area.

I hope that some kind of decent sound systems (other than in-wall) appear to go with the new thin TV's. It seems kind of pointless to have a thin TV flanked by 24" deep speakers, and 20" deep components on a stand under the TV. As I understand the soundbar technology, a large room doesn't pose a problem--a room without four complete and symmetrical walls and a flat ceiling to reflect the directed sound beams is a problem.

The super thin LED TVs have mediocre speakers, but Samsung has a sort of matching soundbar, that's also really thin. Otherwise, yes, any on-wall speakers are way deeper than these TVs. In my case, it's on a stand with the soundbar and components tucked away about as inconspicuously as can be. This set-up is in my living room, so I made all of the aesthetic compromises with the Better Half.

The 46B8000 doesn't suffer from the dark corners that the 55" did. There is only a hint of uneven backlighting that I noticed that doesn't affect 99% of my viewing, so I can live with this issue. I couldn't tolerate the dark corners.

Hi All,

I haven't been on in awhile. I've been searching around for a new lamp for my Q. I looked at the links on page 1, but I've also found a few other places online that have replacements cheaper. The most common I've seen is an Osram lamp - VIP R 200/P22 or P22R200. Will this work? It is $100 cheaper than the XL5000, which I assume is Sony's part no.

Also, with regards to the warranty extension on 2004 sets-how do I figure out the manufacture date and if my set qualifies? Can I replace the lamp myself and not void this extension. And finally, if my Q does qualify, how can I make the OB fail and get a new one!! :)

Cheers

Hi All,

I haven't been on in awhile. I've been searching around for a new lamp for my Q. I looked at the links on page 1, but I've also found a few other places online that have replacements cheaper. The most common I've seen is an Osram lamp - VIP R 200/P22 or P22R200. Will this work? It is $100 cheaper than the XL5000, which I assume is Sony's part no.

Also, with regards to the warranty extension on 2004 sets-how do I figure out the manufacture date and if my set qualifies? Can I replace the lamp myself and not void this extension. And finally, if my Q does qualify, how can I make the OB fail and get a new one!! :)

Cheers

Be careful with the replacement lamps. Several Q owners bought non-genuine lamps that either did not last long or suffered minor bulb explosions.
Also some of the less expensive alternatives ARE NOT complete assemblies and users had problems making the missing parts fit and work. Buyer beware.

The manufacture date is just below the serial number on the right rear of the set.

The bulb was made to be user replaceable.
Don't forget to carefully clean the inside housing and lenses and the rear air inlet areas

Check your OB by going to the memory stick mode without a card in the slot. You should see a white screen without any discoloration anywhere.
If your OB is good keep on using it, the extended warranty is until 2010

As I understand it, all of our Q's are in "model year 2004" and all are covered by the extended OB warranty to mid-2010.

As I understand it, all of our Q's are in "model year 2004" and all are covered by the extended OB warranty to mid-2010.

Ted99 , This is how I read the coverage. Most good equipment for 10 Years You should get all parts available. So 2014 should buy if want to keep set going All parts ? Each State has a standard of what price & what is throw away. Q's is top of the line & was Priced to boot. So All States Q's is not a throw away Item.

So, it isn't an additional three years after the purchase date three year warranty? I bought mine in 2005 and thought my mftr's warranty was up in '08, and I got another three years after that. In any event for me it doesn't matter, because I bought an extended warranty that carries me out to mid-2011, so maybe it wasn't a complete waste of money. And it paid for a $5,400 OB replacement before Sony announced the extension, and it saved me that grief of dealing with a failed OB after my first three years were up.

So, it isn't an additional three years after the purchase date three year warranty? I bought mine in 2005 and thought my mftr's warranty was up in '08, and I got another three years after that. In any event for me it doesn't matter, because I bought an extended warranty that carries me out to mid-2011, so maybe it wasn't a complete waste of money. And it paid for a $5,400 OB replacement before Sony announced the extension, and it saved me that grief of dealing with a failed OB after my first three years were up.

It's a "date certain" extended warranty strictly for the OB, and expiring mid-2010. I bought an extended warranty, too (GE), but my OB failed before the original Sony 3-yr warranty. There was no drama in getting Sony to replace it at that time. The extended warranty has already bought me two projector lamps--one more and it has paid for itself. But, the GE extended warranty (5 yr added to the 3-yr factory) states that GE has the option of repairing the Q, or paying me fair market value. I suspect that another OB replacement after the Sony extended warranty expires will cost more than GE thinks is the fair market value.

Another thread on this forum is tracking the number of Sony XBR SXRD sets that have had a second (or third) OB replacement, so it's possible that our Q's will also refail. If so, I hope that it happens within the Sony extended warranty because the Q will probably be dead meat after then.

I don't have much hope for Sony replacing their Q repair parts supply after they walk away from the Q's in mid-2010; so there may be some salvage value to our sets as sources of cannibalization, but since most will have a common failure (the OB), this won't last long. And in any event, the size and weight of our sets mean they will have local interest, only.

In short, for those of us that intended our Q's and their still-fabulous pictures to be used for, say 10 years, to amortize the $12K - $15K cost to a more reasonable $2K/year are going to be out of luck. Good luck to Sony in selling $20K 70 in LCD's, with this kind of product support. I won't bite again!

It's a "date certain" extended warranty strictly for the OB, and expiring mid-2010. I bought an extended warranty, too (GE), but my OB failed before the original Sony 3-yr warranty. There was no drama in getting Sony to replace it at that time. The extended warranty has already bought me two projector lamps--one more and it has paid for itself. But, the GE extended warranty (5 yr added to the 3-yr factory) states that GE has the option of repairing the Q, or paying me fair market value. I suspect that another OB replacement after the Sony extended warranty expires will cost more than GE thinks is the fair market value.

Another thread on this forum is tracking the number of Sony XBR SXRD sets that have had a second (or third) OB replacement, so it's possible that our Q's will also refail. If so, I hope that it happens within the Sony extended warranty because the Q will probably be dead meat after then.

I don't have much hope for Sony replacing their Q repair parts supply after they walk away from the Q's in mid-2010; so there may be some salvage value to our sets as sources of cannibalization, but since most will have a common failure (the OB), this won't last long. And in any event, the size and weight of our sets mean they will have local interest, only.

In short, for those of us that intended our Q's and their still-fabulous pictures to be used for, say 10 years, to amortize the $12K - $15K cost to a more reasonable $2K/year are going to be out of luck. Good luck to Sony in selling $20K 70 in LCD's, with this kind of product support. I won't bite again!

+1

After all warranties are up, I can't imagine someone paying over $5K for an OB replacement, especially with the likely prospect that it'll only be good for 2-3 years before failing again.

Two to three years? No, it's the luck of the draw :). I put about 1000 hours a year on mine, and got about 2000 hours out of the first two (same as the lamps). This one has been in six months or so and is now as bad as the one that it replaced (I had bad luck this time). Very consistant on mine that the center yellows and the edges turn pinkish. I'm hoping I can live with it for six more months and then have it replaced. Hopefully when that one gives up there will be something available to replace it in that size (I don't have a suitable place for a projector :( ).

Two to three years? No, it's the luck of the draw :). I put about 1000 hours a year on mine, and got about 2000 hours out of the first two (same as the lamps). This one has been in six months or so and is now as bad as the one that it replaced (I had bad luck this time). Very consistant on mine that the center yellows and the edges turn pinkish. I'm hoping I can live with it for six more months and then have it replaced. Hopefully when that one gives up there will be something available to replace it in that size (I don't have a suitable place for a projector :( ).

I think it's hard to accurately say how long the Q OBs have lasted, on average. It looks like you have had especially bad luck with them. Mine was good for about 3 years. I remember some owners saying theirs was going bad and they were already beyond the 3 year warranty period. Without researching our thread, it seems like most owners were getting a good couple of years out of these flawed OBs, before the issue was raised. I believe that's why we didn't get in on the "green blob/haze" SXRD class-action. While that thing got ramped up, we were all glowing and thankful about how our "statement" TVs didn't have those kinds of problems. I also think it's possible that some Q owners may have had bad OBs and not realized it for a while until it got really noticable. Even so, my confidence level is so low it wouldn't surprise me if one went bad out of the box. One thing is for sure, since most of us are on the same time-table, and of a like mind, in a year or two we could make one hell of a six figure group buy for a replacement state-of-the-art TV, whatever that might be.

I spent a considerable time speaking with Qualia concierge today. Among other things, the fellow confirmed that Ted99 correctly stated the extended OB warranty expires mid-2010. He acknowledged what we have all been dealing with, and genuinely understood our predicament and the precarious position most of us will find ourselves in about a year or two from now. I actually believe that Sony does not want to alienate our core group of clientele. Basically, he said that beyond any warranty period if we encounter the OB failure to contact Sony and the company will try to work with us. Without being naive, I'm at least hopeful that we can eventually get some kind of satisfaction. A 70in LCD trade-out is not in the equation, but a close to value concession of some sort may not be out of the question. I know time will tell, but when faced with the prospect of a silver and glass casket in my house, I'll be ready to deal.

I spent a considerable time speaking with Qualia concierge today. Among other things, the fellow confirmed that Ted99 correctly stated the extended OB warranty expires mid-2010. He acknowledged what we have all been dealing with, and genuinely understood our predicament and the precarious position most of us will find ourselves in about a year or two from now. I actually believe that Sony does not want to alienate our core group of clientele. Basically, he said that beyond any warranty period if we encounter the OB failure to contact Sony and the company will try to work with us. Without being naive, I'm at least hopeful that we can eventually get some kind of satisfaction. A 70in LCD trade-out is not in the equation, but a close to value concession of some sort may not be out of the question. I know time will tell, but when faced with the prospect of a silver and glass casket in my house, I'll be ready to deal.

If they came out with a 70" XBR8 (although I have not read up on their current offerings) at cost to swap out, I would have to give that some serious thought (read - if it was a decent TV of almost Qualia capability, I would go for it)...

If they came out with a 70" XBR8 (although I have not read up on their current offerings) at cost to swap out, I would have to give that some serious thought (read - if it was a decent TV of almost Qualia capability, I would go for it)...

I assume you mean to sell one at cost, not an even swap. Yeah, I'm in on that one. Sony's current 70" LCD is not an XBR8, which is its LED backlit model. It's a CCFL-lit and an excellent picture. The Q guy I spoke to told me Sony ditched the 70" with LED for now because it would have been really expensive. The XBR9 is not an LED set. We could speculate from now until this happens in a year or two as to what Sony will have available and what it's willing to do.

There is still something very wrong about Sony taking the position of "yeah, we know there is a big problem, so what do you want us to do"? It is even worse that they get away with it. We have a Store in Portland where I bought my Q who sold Sony Only, and now they have other lines as well!

This is it for me and Sony. I had 2 SVHS recorders fail and they kept putting in parts that failed again. My wife had (still has) 2 PDA's, Clie, and Sony said they were just not going to support them any more. I even remember when all of us Q "guys" bought the latest SD DVD players and the Sony had stuck Drawer issues!

There is still something very wrong about Sony taking the position of "yeah, we know there is a big problem, so what do you want us to do"? It is even worse that they get away with it. We have a Store in Portland where I bought my Q who sold Sony Only, and now they have other lines as well!

This is it for me and Sony. I had 2 SVHS recorders fail and they kept putting in parts that failed again. My wife had (still has) 2 PDA's, Clie, and Sony said they were just not going to support them any more. I even remember when all of us Q "guys" bought the latest SD DVD players and the Sony had stuck Drawer issues!

I hear and don't blame you. I'm no shill for Sony (or "fanboy" in today's parlance), that's for sure. The most recent and viable example is the SXRD class-action suit. All I'm saying is that I had a positive experience with the Sony concierge in that the guy actually listened to what I had to say and didn't patronize me with the usual company line. The cynical side of me - I am a lawyer by trade - is very capable of proposing we are all being placated until the actual value of our useless Qs some day is so low Sony has significantly reduced their potential "damages." With the handwriting on the wall of a clearly faulty defect, this day of reckoning is coming, unfortunately sooner than we had all hoped.

I hear and don't blame you. I'm no shill for Sony (or "fanboy" in today's parlance), that's for sure. The most recent and viable example is the SXRD class-action suit. All I'm saying is that I had a positive experience with the Sony concierge in that the guy actually listened to what I had to say and didn't patronize me with the usual company line. The cynical side of me - I am a lawyer by trade - is very capable of proposing we are all being placated until the actual value of our useless Qs some day is so low Sony has significantly reduced their potential "damages." With the handwriting on the wall of a clearly faulty defect, this day of reckoning is coming, unfortunately sooner than we had all hoped.

I have reviewed a draft of the Q class action suit pleading. I do not know when (or if) it will be filed.

I have reviewed a draft of the Q class action suit pleading. I do not know when (or if) it will be filed.

Ted...I did not know there was still an "or if".

sofer...I did not have an axe to grind with Sony. The examples I gave of Sony products I had issues with (and I forgot about the very expensive Hi-8 Camcorder) were even before I got the Q. However, the PR on the whole Qualia line is that we (Sony) would stand by each Qualia Customer because we were special. I do agree that the contact you had with them went above the usual "Corporate line" but I do not see how it changed anything. We all expected this purchase to last for 10 years +. In fact they even said that the best thing about the Q006 was that when you changed a lamp, it was like getting a new set all over again. There was not much else to fail.

Ted...I did not know there was still an "or if".

sofer...I did not have an axe to grind with Sony. The examples I gave of Sony products I had issues with (and I forgot about the very expensive Hi-8 Camcorder) were even before I got the Q. However, the PR on the whole Qualia line is that we (Sony) would stand by each Qualia Customer because we were special. I do agree that the contact you had with them went above the usual "Corporate line" but I do not see how it changed anything. We all expected this purchase to last for 10 years +. In fact they even said that the best thing about the Q006 was that when you changed a lamp, it was like getting a new set all over again. There was not much else to fail.


My call to the Q concierge changed nothing, and I didn't expect it to. I just wanted to confirm when the extended OB warranty expired. All I'm saying is that the guy I spoke to was very candid about this whole fiasco. I have no illusions about what, if anything, Sony will end up offering to do for us. I couldn't agree more with you that the Q was advertised as a halo, state-of-the-art product. Not just a Ferrari, but an Enzo, at that. I pulled no punches stating that a Q buyer paid a premium of 2-3 times over another competing TV, and nobody could reasonably expect it to crap out like the Qs will.

My call to the Q concierge changed nothing, and I didn't expect it to. I just wanted to confirm when the extended OB warranty expired. All I'm saying is that the guy I spoke to was very candid about this whole fiasco. I have no illusions about what, if anything, Sony will end up offering to do for us. I couldn't agree more with you that the Q was advertised as a halo, state-of-the-art product. Not just a Ferrari, but an Enzo, at that. I pulled no punches stating that a Q buyer paid a premium of 2-3 times over another competing TV, and nobody could reasonably expect it to crap out like the Qs will.

Yup, and the problem, too, is that we will have a hell of a time getting rid of them! I know of no recycling center where we can take it. I just hope with the small number of hours I have on mine that it will last a long time.

Can't the way that Sony advertised the whole Qualia line, and the promises they made to us Q006 buyers and their Dealers, , help us in getting something back? I mean, I understand that if a VCR or DVD player is not quite what we expected that we can just move on. But a 13K TV?

Yup, and the problem, too, is that we will have a hell of a time getting rid of them! I know of no recycling center where we can take it. I just hope with the small number of hours I have on mine that it will last a long time.

Can't the way that Sony advertised the whole Qualia line, and the promises they made to us Q006 buyers and their Dealers, , help us in getting something back? I mean, I understand that if a VCR or DVD player is not quite what we expected that we can just move on. But a 13K TV?

Good point on actually getting rid of one of these things. I suppose I was just going to call the closest landfill dump and see if it would accept it. That's assuming Sony doesn't make some kind of arrangement where the Q is shipped back.

I don't want to sound evasive at all, but I will say that I believe virtually every post on this thread with regard to the OB issue and our postions as owners has been well reasoned and astutely observed. I would never post anything that could be construed as legal opinion or speculation on a legal theory or support for a potential cause of action. Translation: I'm not saying anything online! I have had consultations with attorneys about such things, and if you send me a PM, I'll give you my phone number. If you're interested, I would be pleased to give you my impressions. That goes for any Q owner.

As far as longevity goes, my extended warranty is good through mid-2011, and I've got a couple of extra lamps. I guess for me it will depend on whether my second OB gets me up to or beyond my expiration date. I can't imagine anyone ponying up $5,000+ for an OB replacement out of warranty, at least at this point in the game. Bottom line is my Q life expectancy is 2-4 years max, with the latter period only possible if a new OB is put in before my warranty expires, to buy me that extra year or two.

I agree with what everyone is saying here. In addition to offering some type of deal on a replacement tv, I wonder if they would also offer one additional OB with a warranty on it (say 2 years). This is with the understanding that when that 2(?) years is up you are on your own.

I doubt it but it is interesting to speculate.

I have to investigate further but it appears that my Sony 55" KDS A2000 has some serious yellow/green issues. This is the kids' tv so I never really pay attention to it. I have not checked yet but do you know if Sony included this series in their warranty extensions? I only remember the Q and the XBR lines getting mentioned.

Ron

I agree with what everyone is saying here. In addition to offering some type of deal on a replacement tv, I wonder if they would also offer one additional OB with a warranty on it (say 2 years). This is with the understanding that when that 2(?) years is up you are on your own.

I doubt it but it is interesting to speculate.

I have to investigate further but it appears that my Sony 55" KDS A2000 has some serious yellow/green issues. This is the kids' tv so I never really pay attention to it. I have not checked yet but do you know if Sony included this series in their warranty extensions? I only remember the Q and the XBR lines getting mentioned.

Ron

Ron,

If you think the kids' TV has issues, unfortunately it probably does. Sony's RP SXRD technology has had so many problems, you just have to make that assumption. Unless someone can chime in here with more information, I'd contact Sony to see if any remedies are available for this particular model. I recommended a similar TV to my secretary and her husband (nice move now on my part) but before their warranty expired they bought an extended warranty. And yes, their OB failed, but it was covered.

As for the rest of us, I'd let Ted continue with his efforts and see where that leads. I've been beating this thing up for months with analysis, and I can't think of anything new to add to the equation that hasn't already been said here. Still, I'm always open to consider anything.

Ron,

If you think the kids' TV has issues, unfortunately it probably does. Sony's RP SXRD technology has had so many problems, you just have to make that assumption. Unless someone can chime in here with more information, I'd contact Sony to see if any remedies are available for this particular model. I recommended a similar TV to my secretary and her husband (nice move now on my part) but before their warranty expired they bought an extended warranty. And yes, their OB failed, but it was covered.

As for the rest of us, I'd let Ted continue with his efforts and see where that leads. I've been beating this thing up for months with analysis, and I can't think of anything new to add to the equation that hasn't already been said here. Still, I'm always open to consider anything.

As has been observed, this is an open forum and I'm not going to say anything else about the class action suit. I did want Sony to know, if they are reading this forum, that we are not going to lie down and take it. Suffice to say, our thoughts are fully covered.

+1

I was alerted to the sad news from fellow Qualians on Blu-ray.com as I had hopefully asked about divedude’s *status* on May 22, 2009 – 3 days too late.
http://forum.blu-ray.com/showthread.php?p=1934290&highlight=divedude#post1934290

Farewell my friend and Godspeed –
http://www.underseahunter.com/uh/english/reports/guestbook/guestbook.php?key=1205

Your posts here exemplified the word “enthusiast”.
You will be missed.

P.S.
Mpsan, I do have a wedding coming up to attend in the Dallas area and if you can find out where divedude is buried (if applicable) shoot me a PM and I’ll try to visit and leave an appropriate memento that divedude would appreciate.

Oh no... What a horrid thing to read I am in shock. A friend is no more and what a bit of sunshine he brought to us all.

Hi Dave,

I saw that special on Tivo HD's, pretty great deal. Yes, I have a Tivo Series 3 (high end precursor to the Tivo HD, essentially the same box). I use the Native output of my Tivo S3, because it is connected to an Anthem D2, which does the video processing and then the D2 sends it to my Qualia as 1080i/60. But if I were connecting a Tivo HD directly to a Qualia, with nothing in between, I'd probably use Native mode still, and let the Qualia do the de-interlacing and scaling as needed, rather than asking the Tivo to do it. Depends what you watch to some extent, but generally I trust the Qualia's scaling/deinterlacing ability more than the Tivo's...

Congrats by the way! You will LOVE the Tivo HD, great unit, and great content now with Netflix, Amazon Un-box, etc. Cheers!!!

Brian

I also got in on the father's day special and am loving the Tivo HD (although the HD size of it seems a bit small so eventually will get an expander).

I will have to look up native mode on the tivo and see how that looks I just let it go auto so it has been doing the scaling.

Be careful with the replacement lamps. Several Q owners bought non-genuine lamps that either did not last long or suffered minor bulb explosions.
Also some of the less expensive alternatives ARE NOT complete assemblies and users had problems making the missing parts fit and work. Buyer beware.

The manufacture date is just below the serial number on the right rear of the set.

The bulb was made to be user replaceable.
Don't forget to carefully clean the inside housing and lenses and the rear air inlet areas

Check your OB by going to the memory stick mode without a card in the slot. You should see a white screen without any discoloration anywhere.
If your OB is good keep on using it, the extended warranty is until 2010

If we have any success stories on picking up cheap genuine lamps that work fine please share. If we can get the real deal for a cheaper price that is of course the way to go, I am not too interested in a knockoff as even if it works fine who knows what the knockoff aspect might do to the Q (explosions etc).

Quick question what do you do to:
"Don't forget to carefully clean the inside housing and lenses and the rear air inlet areas"

My cleaning has been restricted to trying to get off what I can on the outer edge tunnel walls (the rough part) and then working blind with little wipes which are certified not to do damage to any glass surface (eye glass cleaners). I haven't tried for anything near perfection and haven't had more than one lens to clean. I also haven't tried attacking the rear air inlets (afraid sticking a vacuum on those might create havoc within).

If we have any success stories on picking up cheap genuine lamps that work fine please share. If we can get the real deal for a cheaper price that is of course the way to go, I am not too interested in a knockoff as even if it works fine who knows what the knockoff aspect might do to the Q (explosions etc).

Quick question what do you do to:
"Don't forget to carefully clean the inside housing and lenses and the rear air inlet areas"

My cleaning has been restricted to trying to get off what I can on the outer edge tunnel walls (the rough part) and then working blind with little wipes which are certified not to do damage to any glass surface (eye glass cleaners). I haven't tried for anything near perfection and haven't had more than one lens to clean. I also haven't tried attacking the rear air inlets (afraid sticking a vacuum on those might create havoc within).

Here is the company where I previously purchased the bulbs.
They are Sony original equipment and the complete assembly.
TV Lamps For Less (http://www.tvlampsforless.com/XL_5000_p/xl5000.htm)
Remember not to touch the bulb lens

Here are the cleaning chemicals I have been using. They do not leave any residue to be baked on the mirror. I am sure other lens cleaners for cameras etc will work.
Purosol Plasma Cleaner and Purosol Optical Cleaner (http://www.purosol.com/)

Here are cleaning instructions from the first page (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8034900&&#post8034900)

I use a air blast first to reach inside and clean the fans then a strong vacuum and clean all the slots etc in the rear.

I just checked the Sony support page and they apparently have changed the extended OB warranty for the 006 for ALL 006 units without any specified production date.

Stew

boy what i wouldn't give to be this woman's teenage son...

http://www.electronichouse.com/article/100_inch_screen_gets_mounted_flush_in_the_ceiling/

Here is the company where I previously purchased the bulbs.
They are Sony original equipment and the complete assembly.
TV Lamps For Less (http://www.tvlampsforless.com/XL_5000_p/xl5000.htm)
Remember not to touch the bulb lens

Here are the cleaning chemicals I have been using. They do not leave any residue to be baked on the mirror. I am sure other lens cleaners for cameras etc will work.
Purosol Plasma Cleaner and Purosol Optical Cleaner (http://www.purosol.com/)

Here are cleaning instructions from the first page (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8034900&&#post8034900)

I use a air blast first to reach inside and clean the fans then a strong vacuum and clean all the slots etc in the rear.

Stew

Thanks Stew - pretty close to what I do (I used the old instructions too) an earlier reference to lenses had me puzzled but maybe they were just talking about the lamp lens as well. The air + vacuum combo seems worth a try so I may add that to my routine and the purosol certainly sounds like a great product.

Probably too much to hope that they put our lamps on sale but if they do I imagine it will make this forum so we can all stock up (talk about a limited pool of potential buyers lol).

Thanks Stew - pretty close to what I do (I used the old instructions too) an earlier reference to lenses had me puzzled but maybe they were just talking about the lamp lens as well. The air + vacuum combo seems worth a try so I may add that to my routine and the purosol certainly sounds like a great product.

Probably too much to hope that they put our lamps on sale but if they do I imagine it will make this forum so we can all stock up (talk about a limited pool of potential buyers lol).

I checked the other day and Lamps For Less wanted $239.00 US which was less than the $299.00 US everyone else was asking.

Do not clean the lens on the lamp. You should not touch it with anything including the human finger as the oils will decrease the lamp life.

Hey Guys, long time lurker. My 006 Qualia has the green screen optical block issue and I'm looking to buy a replacement TV. After looking over the very limited choices, my only options seem to be the new 82" Mitsubishi 82837, or the new Panasonic 65" Plasma that should be shipping in a couple weeks.

Any thoughts on what to get? I love the size of the 82" Mitsubishi, but I'm not sure the PQ is going to satisfy me after having the Qualia for a couple years. I believe the PQ of the 65" Panny plasma would work for me (I think), but I hate going down in size. So confused....

(note: I've had my Qualia for a couple years, but I was not the original owner, so I'm pretty sure I don't qualify for any restitution from Sony for the all to common OB failure /cry).

Hey Guys, long time lurker. My 006 Qualia has the green screen optical block issue and I'm looking to buy a replacement TV. After looking over the very limited choices, my only options seem to be the new 82" Mitsubishi 82837, or the new Panasonic 65" Plasma that should be shipping in a couple weeks.

Any thoughts on what to get? I love the size of the 82" Mitsubishi, but I'm not sure the PQ is going to satisfy me after having the Qualia for a couple years. I believe the PQ of the 65" Panny plasma would work for me (I think), but I hate going down in size. So confused....

(note: I've had my Qualia for a couple years, but I was not the original owner, so I'm pretty sure I don't qualify for any restitution from Sony for the all to common OB failure /cry).

First, call the Qualia number. Qualia Customer Support: 877-QUALIA3. I wouldn't give up so quick on help from Sony yet.

Yes, Mits still makes big sets, but I agree on the step down in PQ. The Pansonic Premiere 65" is great PQ, but I think about $10K MSRP. As I write this, I believe Samsung and Sharp will both have 65" LCDs, and of course Sony has the 70 incher ($$$).

With what I hope is not the handwriting on the wall, after my 2-4 good Q years left, I'm already planning on going FP. I have a dedicated room, but I didn't get a FP when it was finished about five years ago because I didn't think the technologies and price points were there yet. And I had a 65" RPTV that still had some legs. Now, you can get a great FP picture in the $5-10K neighborhood.

Hey Guys, long time lurker. My 006 Qualia has the green screen optical block issue and I'm looking to buy a replacement TV. After looking over the very limited choices, my only options seem to be the new 82" Mitsubishi 82837, or the new Panasonic 65" Plasma that should be shipping in a couple weeks.

Any thoughts on what to get? I love the size of the 82" Mitsubishi, but I'm not sure the PQ is going to satisfy me after having the Qualia for a couple years. I believe the PQ of the 65" Panny plasma would work for me (I think), but I hate going down in size. So confused....

(note: I've had my Qualia for a couple years, but I was not the original owner, so I'm pretty sure I don't qualify for any restitution from Sony for the all to common OB failure /cry).

Here is the Qualia 006 Optical Block warranty
Note that it states ANY OWNER
Call and get the OB replaced and you should have several more years of service.

Model: KDS-70Q006

As part of the Sony commitment to quality, Sony is announcing that it is extending the limited warranty (parts and labor), in the United States, on the optical block of the KDS-70Q006 QUALIA televisions until June 30, 2010, regardless of purchase date. For any customer who requires repair of the optical block on this affected model, Sony will cover the cost of the optical block repair (parts and labor) at no charge through June 30, 2010. This extended warranty does not apply to the replaceable projection lamp or the other parts that may be used in the televisions.

Sony is also announcing that for any owner of these model televisions who paid out-of-pocket expenses on or before December 31, 2008 for an estimate or repair service to replace the optical block, Sony will reimburse the customer by mail for the cost of the optical block and the labor expense to replace it, subject to certain conditions. To receive reimbursement, please follow completely the directions on the claim form for reimbursement; all claims must be postmarked by January 31, 2009. See the claim form for complete terms and conditions.

All other terms of the Sony limited warranty continue to apply. Sony utilizes a network of hundreds of qualified independent third-party servicers to perform in-home television warranty service. Sony, through its authorized servicer network, will endeavor to repair your set within 30 days of your first contact. For diagnosis, warranty service, or if you are not provided a repair within 30 days, please contact Sony at (888) 649-7669.

Been gone for quite a while boys. Just logged in today and saw the sad news on Divedude. Always enjoyed his wit and pictures. :(

Opinions appreciated:

I got my Q-006 in the initial second wave waaaaaaaaay back when. Last October I finally noticed the greenish hue to the right side of the screen. (think it had been there for a while just kind of crept up on me) Sony replaced my optical block under warranty in October 2007. Now in July of 2009 I am seeing the exact same greenish crap on the right side of the screen. Pissed off, I called Sony and they apologized and told me they extended the warranty till June 2010 and would happily replace my Optical Block....... again. Then the Concierge asked if I would be interested in a discount on a new Sony TV instead of fixing my Q-006. What he offered was for them to pick up my old and busted Q-006 and for a mere $2,500 I could purchase their new 65 inch LCD. (Half price) That seems pretty weak in my opinion. Spent nearly $13k for my Q and expected it to last beyond 5-6 years. Anyone else been offered a "discount" on a new Sony rather than change out the OB?

I am very concerned now about replacing the block............ again as in two years it looks like I would be on the hook to replace it ........again. A further consideration is that parts may be difficult to find and expensive?

Since they want to charge $5k for the optical block I think they should offer that as an equivalent credit on something new............... anyone have any thoughts or opinions on this. They are "checking" with management on my counter. Don't really want to go down in screen size and don't want to go down in picture quality. Man am I bummed.

Opinions appreciated:

I got my Q-006 in the initial second wave waaaaaaaaay back when. Last October I finally noticed the greenish hue to the right side of the screen. (think it had been there for a while just kind of crept up on me) Sony replaced my optical block under warranty in October 2007. Now in July of 2009 I am seeing the exact same greenish crap on the right side of the screen. Pissed off, I called Sony and they apologized and told me they extended the warranty till June 2010 and would happily replace my Optical Block....... again. Then the Concierge asked if I would be interested in a discount on a new Sony TV instead of fixing my Q-006. What he offered was for them to pick up my old and busted Q-006 and for a mere $2,500 I could purchase their new 65 inch LCD. (Half price) That seems pretty weak in my opinion. Spent nearly $13k for my Q and expected it to last beyond 5-6 years. Anyone else been offered a "discount" on a new Sony rather than change out the OB?

I am very concerned now about replacing the block............ again as in two years it looks like I would be on the hook to replace it ........again. A further consideration is that parts may be difficult to find and expensive?

Since they want to charge $5k for the optical block I think they should offer that as an equivalent credit on something new............... anyone have any thoughts or opinions on this. They are "checking" with management on my counter. Don't really want to go down in screen size and don't want to go down in picture quality. Man am I bummed.

And so begins a new era in Sony work-out strategies. I thought I've seen a couple of other "deals" that have been offered, but does Sony even have a 65" LCD? If it's new, I would think it's going to be more than $5,000 MSRP. But consider this: Let's say you replace the OB, and it craps out again in a couple of years, which is very possible. Then where are you? You probably won't be in a better position because your Q is that much older, from an amortized standpoint only though. All of the other infuriating arguments are still there. I do recall someone trying to get the 70" LCD out of Sony, and it was a no go. Keep us posted on your progress, or lack thereof, and certainly you'll get many pearls of wisdom from the Q brethren.

Based on Sony's prevailing stance, it probably will not happen, but what Sony ought to do is offer its Sony Qualia 006 owners the option to purchase the SONY KDL-70XBR7 for Sony's actual cost of production.

The SONY KDL-70XBR lists for a mind-blowing $20,000 and can be found from a reputable Internet seller for $16,417.49 delivered. I can't imagine at its current price point, that the KDL-70XBR is selling briskly.

Or perhaps SONY should offer to sell the SONY KDL-70XBR to Qualia 006 owners for the difference in price between the original SONY 006 list price of $13,000 and the list price of the KDL-70XBR = $7,000 plus pickup of the 006. I would pay that.

Chris

I think it's pretty clear from what we are now seeing with Q owners and the experience of the XBR owners that our replaced OB's will fail again. If they fail again before July 2010, Sony says they are on the hook for a replacement. That is the only point, short of legal action, when we owners have any leverage. If Sony is on the hook for a $6K replacement, it would seem reasonable to go for an equivalent amount for a "buyback", which seems to me to be the correct term if they are picking the set up. If $6K is the "retail" cost of replacement, plus labor; then an equivalent credit on a replacement Sony product seems like a reasonable settlement. So, the question for we owners is whether a return of roughly half of what we paid after 5 years, or so, is acceptable. If we opt for the OB replacement, we are only buying a couple of years of additional life for our Q's, at which time they become boat anchors. The only question for me is the amount of the buyout to cause me to choose the buyout over another OB replacement and another two years, or so, of extra life. The price of equivalent quality TV's could well drop $6K in those two years. I mention, in particular, the Mits Laservue's, which could be on a third generation, by then.

I think it's pretty clear from what we are now seeing with Q owners and the experience of the XBR owners that our replaced OB's will fail again. If they fail again before July 2010, Sony says they are on the hook for a replacement. That is the only point, short of legal action, when we owners have any leverage. If Sony is on the hook for a $6K replacement, it would seem reasonable to go for an equivalent amount for a "buyback", which seems to me to be the correct term if they are picking the set up. If $6K is the "retail" cost of replacement, plus labor; then an equivalent credit on a replacement Sony product seems like a reasonable settlement. So, the question for we owners is whether a return of roughly half of what we paid after 5 years, or so, is acceptable. If we opt for the OB replacement, we are only buying a couple of years of additional life for our Q's, at which time they become boat anchors. The only question for me is the amount of the buyout to cause me to choose the buyout over another OB replacement and another two years, or so, of extra life. The price of equivalent quality TV's could well drop $6K in those two years. I mention, in particular, the Mits Laservue's, which could be on a third generation, by then.

I think I might be looking at it somewhat differently if there is no legal action being taken.

There currently are no sets comparable in size and picture quality.
The Mitsubishi LaserVue units I have seen are currently smaller in size and nowhere near the Qualia in picture quality. The picture has a lot of noise.

The only 70" similiar in size and picture quality is the $19,999.00 Sony LCD

The Qualia is good currently until 2010. Any upgrade to the 70" Sony LCD with a trade allowance from Sony could be in the area of $13,000.00 to $17,000.00.

Far cheaper to replace the Qualia OB for about $5000.00 for another 2 years or more.
I have no doubt you could get the OB replaced for less than the $5000.00 if it is an out of pocket expense.
Unknown at this time will be Sony's stance of possibly supporting the Qualia further when there are less sets needing repair.









.

I agree with both Ted and Stew. I think we all know where we stand, which is with much uncertainty. If no legal action is taken, the only difference in my position with most Q owners is that I'd be willing to work out something with a FP, and there are enough SXRDs at various price points to probably make it workable. Maybe, who the hell knows?

I wonder what is the actual expense to Sony for a replaced OB? My bill was about $5,500, of which labor was around $175. Surely Sony isn't out $5K +/- for the part. And given the horrible depreciation of consumer electronic products, what's the value of a perfectly good six year old, albeit statement product, HDTV like the Q? I realize this kind of number crunching is depressing, and only considers the tangible side of things, but Sony will surely emphasize this angle, as it favors them.

Hey Guy’s
I have had my OB replaced once already and have started to see the same greenish tint returning in the left corner also, starting just like before.
Not good.

Hey Guy’s
I have had my OB replaced once already and have started to see the same greenish tint returning in the left corner also, starting just like before.
Not good.

I wonder why some OBs fail so quickly and others do not.
I'll bet Sony has the answers.

I think it is important that any failing OB be reported and replaced right away.

I really don't have my mind made up, absent legal success. Take a for instance: 1st OB failure near the 3 year point (my experience). 2nd OB failure just before 7/10 (my hope). Assume a three-year life on the second replacement OB, done in 6/10. That's 9 years of in-service for the Q. I admit that the mits laservue is sub par, at this time, but by then (6/13) it could be on a much improved 3rd generation and being offered in 80" size for sub $6K (It could also have died as a product line). All of this is really optimistic, but in this situation, I would be unwilling to pay $2.5K plus turn-in of my Q to get a 65" LCD set next Spring. On the other hand, suppose the first OB replacement fails after 7/10. I have a boat anchor after 6 years.

Thus the dilemma. What does the future bring. Since Sony is unforthcoming, we really don't know what to expect with the replacement OB's. My first replacement OB is now a little over 2 years and still OK and the new Sony extended warranty expires a little over 3 years from the first replacement. I won't be faced with a decision unless my first replacement OB fails before 7/10. If so, what's Sony's offer in lieu of a second OB replacement? The current apparent offer of $2.5K for a 65" LCD is not as attractive as a second OB replacement with a 3 year life (hopefully), which would give me 9 years on the Q. Will Sony sweeten the deal next spring? Will we have successful legal action? Will the Cubs win the World Series? Only the Shadow knows.

I really don't have my mind made up, absent legal success. Take a for instance: 1st OB failure near the 3 year point (my experience). 2nd OB failure just before 7/10 (my hope). Assume a three-year life on the second replacement OB, done in 6/10. That's 9 years of in-service for the Q. I admit that the mits laservue is sub par, at this time, but by then (6/13) it could be on a much improved 3rd generation and being offered in 80" size for sub $6K (It could also have died as a product line). All of this is really optimistic, but in this situation, I would be unwilling to pay $2.5K plus turn-in of my Q to get a 65" LCD set next Spring. On the other hand, suppose the first OB replacement fails after 7/10. I have a boat anchor after 6 years.

Thus the dilemma. What does the future bring. Since Sony is unforthcoming, we really don't know what to expect with the replacement OB's. My first replacement OB is now a little over 2 years and still OK and the new Sony extended warranty expires a little over 3 years from the first replacement. I won't be faced with a decision unless my first replacement OB fails before 7/10. If so, what's Sony's offer in lieu of a second OB replacement? The current apparent offer of $2.5K for a 65" LCD is not as attractive as a second OB replacement with a 3 year life (hopefully), which would give me 9 years on the Q. Will Sony sweeten the deal next spring? Will we have successful legal action? Will the Cubs win the World Series? Only the Shadow knows.

Ted,

I for one would appreciate your not attempting to hinge our Q future with the Cubs winning the World Series. Thank you. I also have worked out a similar scenario of Q longevity based on whether or not a new OB gets in under my extended warranty wire. Lotsa speculation.

Stew,

RE: Quick OB failure. The consensus appeared to be that the failure was linked primarily to heat and lack of adequate air flow. This wouldn't answer why some of these things are failing almost out of the box. When I spoke to the Sony concierge, who was very familiar with this situation, I said something to the effect of, "I doubt Sony has gone through the trouble of re-engineering these OBs." My take on his no comment was that his silence was acquiescence.

So far Sony has not contacted me back on my reply of "Nuts" to their weak offer of buying their new KDL-65W5100

http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665746258


I like the idea of meeting me somewhere in the middle on their 70 inch KDL-70XBR7

http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665532063

I don't want to go down in either size or picture quality. However I have gotten 4-5 years of enjoyment out of my Q. It seems a fair thing to offer us their current flagship TV to replace our wounded Flagship TV's at a fair price for both them and us early adopters. My take is 50 % of current price and they take my beloved Q. What does the group think and what are the odds Sony will actually give a hoot about us early adopting Sony Flag wavers. ( I know for one I have been responsible for multiple Sony TV sales of people who were in awe of my Q and bought less expensive Sony TV's but the salient point is because of my Q they bought Sony vs Mits or Panny or whomever)

What think?

So far Sony has not contacted me back on my reply of "Nuts" to their weak offer of buying their new KDL-65W5100

http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665746258


I like the idea of meeting me somewhere in the middle on their 70 inch KDL-70XBR7

http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665532063

I don't want to go down in either size or picture quality. However I have gotten 4-5 years of enjoyment out of my Q. It seems a fair thing to offer us their current flagship TV to replace our wounded Flagship TV's at a fair price for both them and us early adopters. My take is 50 % of current price and they take my beloved Q. What does the group think and what are the odds Sony will actually give a hoot about us early adopting Sony Flag wavers. ( I know for one I have been responsible for multiple Sony TV sales of people who were in awe of my Q and bought less expensive Sony TV's but the salient point is because of my Q they bought Sony vs Mits or Panny or whomever)

What think?

Over the past several months many have echoed the same sentiments. Unfortunately, there is no roadmap here on Sony remedies. I hope it doesn't become every man for himself, but it seems to me that there won't be a group of similiarly situated owners until the warranties are all up and our OBs, or replacement OBs start to fail, out of warranty. That to me is the great unknown that is so unsettling, and is a year or two away. I find it really interesting that Sony is offering to do workouts now, while the extended warranty is still in place.

Over the past several months many have echoed the same sentiments. Unfortunately, there is no roadmap here on Sony remedies. I hope it doesn't become every man for himself, but it seems to me that there won't be a group of similiarly situated owners until the warranties are all up and our OBs, or replacement OBs start to fail, out of warranty. That to me is the great unknown that is so unsettling, and is a year or two away. I find it really interesting that Sony is offering to do workouts now, while the extended warranty is still in place.\\

If my information is correct there are only about 1000 Qualia 006 owners.
if Sony manages to buyout a few hundred there will be less owners to deal with when the extended warranty expires.
Incidently there probably maybe 20 max who visit this forum.

\\

If my information is correct there are only about 1000 Qualia 006 owners.


That would be interesting to know. Do we know an early edition serial number? If so, we can probably guess the first serial number.

I think my Qualia 006 is a later version. I purchased it in Jan. 27, 2006, Serial Number: 2002306 (I bought an extended warranty direct from Sony which expires 1/26/12).

My guess is that the number of units probably relates to the last 4 digits of the serial number. If I'm right and it started at zero, than my set would be the 2,306th. But maybe Sony started with the last four digits at 1000 or 1001, then my set would be the 1,306th.

What is the earliest serial number known to us?

Chris

i think the next time i even think about spending >$10K on a single TV the neural chip i had implanted in my brain will detonate a small c4 charge and save me from my own insanity!!! :D

That would be interesting to know. Do we know an early edition serial number? If so, we can probably guess the first serial number.

I think my Qualia 006 is a later version. I purchased it in Jan. 27, 2006, Serial Number: 2002306 (I bought an extended warranty direct from Sony which expires 1/26/12).

My guess is that the number of units probably relates to the last 4 digits of the serial number. If I'm right and it started at zero, than my set would be the 2,306th. But maybe Sony started with the last four digits at 1000 or 1001, then my set would be the 1,306th.

What is the earliest serial number known to us?

Chris

the very first one would be our own jb007...

\\

If my information is correct there are only about 1000 Qualia 006 owners.
if Sony manages to buyout a few hundred there will be less owners to deal with when the extended warranty expires.
Incidently there probably maybe 20 max who visit this forum.

Just an FYI - A couple of years ago I visited the SonyStyle store in Vegas that used to be the Qualia store right after Sony announced the end of the Qualia line. The gentleman that sold me my 006 was still there and told me that "fewer than 2000 Qualia 006's were sold world wide" He did not know how many actually found a home in the U.S.

Chas

Just an FYI - A couple of years ago I visited the SonyStyle store in Vegas that used to be the Qualia store right after Sony announced the end of the Qualia line. The gentleman that sold me my 006 was still there and told me that "fewer than 2000 Qualia 006's were sold world wide" He did not know how many actually found a home in the U.S.

Chas

Whas that Brian?

Just an FYI - A couple of years ago I visited the SonyStyle store in Vegas that used to be the Qualia store right after Sony announced the end of the Qualia line. The gentleman that sold me my 006 was still there and told me that "fewer than 2000 Qualia 006's were sold world wide" He did not know how many actually found a home in the U.S.

Chas

My Qualia is Serial Number 2000519
Built March 2005

I also got in on the father's day special and am loving the Tivo HD (although the HD size of it seems a bit small so eventually will get an expander).

I will have to look up native mode on the tivo and see how that looks I just let it go auto so it has been doing the scaling.

I got 3 of them and they are doing well. Look at the Tivo Community site and you can buy a 1TB drive and put it into a TiVo HD for 157hours of HD at LESS than $100. I do not like the TiVo Expander as it uses both drives for shows and a failure on 1 will kill the unit! LOTS of reasons to DIY.

December 2004, SN 2000012 - I am interested in seeing who beat me off the assembly line :).

I know jb007 was the first to get one in the US and did all of us on the fence a huge huge favor letting us know it was the real deal. I got lucky and picked up what appears to be one of the first dozen. I don't remember anyone posting an earlier number but good odds jb007 can take me out unless they didn't sell the first few and used them for testing or something.

Mine was ser# 2000020, Dec 2004, which indicates that it was in the first batch sent to the USA. I'd say that the first was # 2000010, and that it and # 11 went to the the Qualia stores in LV and NYC. The last serial number I have a record of is #2002407, which would indicate at least 2397 were produced.

Just an FYI - A couple of years ago I visited the SonyStyle store in Vegas that used to be the Qualia store right after Sony announced the end of the Qualia line. The gentleman that sold me my 006 was still there and told me that "fewer than 2000 Qualia 006's were sold world wide" He did not know how many actually found a home in the U.S.

Chas
As I recall, the 006 was being sold in Japan, but it had an outboard scaler. The outboard scaler was being sold for another $1K. I don't remember if it was being sold as a "Qualia", however. The Q's were held up at the POE for some work by Sony "engineers", and the list price was raised from the initially announced $9999 to $13,000. I offered the opinion, at the time, that sony was replacing the back panel to put in an integral scaler as a justification for increasing the price. We never learned the official reason for the 10-day hold up of the initial air shipment of 10 sets in LA.

There are a few more.

Manufactured December 2005
Serial Number: 2002475

John

i think the next time i even think about spending >$10k on a single tv the neural chip i had implanted in my brain will detonate a small c4 charge and save me from my own insanity!!! :d

+1

My Qualia is Serial Number 2001279
Built April 2005

The Wallstreet Journal has an article, today, about Sony's losses this fiscal year; and how it has lost it's technological lead, across the board. It also describes Sir Howard Stringer's background as being in media, not technology. I think this mirrors what happened to Detroit. When our car companies were taken over by finance types, instead of engineers and marketers, the decline began. I've said before that it appears that Sony wants to be a media company, rather than a hardware company. I paid the big bucks for the Q based on what I knew of the old Sony. With 20/20 hindsight, it's clear that I should have stayed away because the new Sony isn't doing a very good job on it's hardware. Sony shouldn't be considered to be a premium brand able to command a price premium anymore.

I agree, Ted. I believe the MBA's have killed the Computer and Electronics business and I saw it happen first hand!

The Widescreen Review Website has an article on the Tier 2 and 3 Energy Star labels. Starting in 2010, and being fully implemented in 2012, getting an Energy Star label will require significan reductions in "power on" consumption of TV's. Heretofore, the energy star label has only been concerned with "standby" power consumption. The new standards will kill lamp-based RPTV's. LCD sets greater than 50" will need LED backlighting, and Plasma probably doesn't have a chance of qualifying. RPTV's will need LCD-based lamps or laser-based. The energy star label is voluntary, but I doubt that any mass-marketer will forego it. Except for some niche sets, there are unlikely to be any lamp-based RPTV's and there certainly will be no further development by any major manufacturer. What we have now, is what we will have. Hopefully, this will be a shot in the arm for Mits to continue development of their over-70" laservue sets, since I think their lamp based sets will be dead after 2012. I think we will have to factor this into our "post Q" thinking.

Hello All:

I do not have any color issues, but do have 1 problem that I keep wondering about. I just do not have any dark blacks any more. This has been an ongoing issue for a while now. Even the top and bottom bars, while watching a BR DVD, are at the most dark gray! Picture just seems too bright for true Black.

Can this be the OB acting up in a different way? Are there any settings where I can force it to black to see if it is a setting or another issue? I seem to remember that when I first got the Q you would have to be careful that you turned it off when done as the screen would be black...now I just don't get that any more!

I had my first ob replaced a month ago,and found they put in a revised version.I also talked to sony service and found out that all ob failures after 2010 will be handled on a case by case basis,depending on the age of set,if you have had an ob replaced before,etc.I was also told offers will be made at that time for a credit towards a new set,and that we will not be left out in the cold.The Qualia has five fans,but the one that causes the blocks to fail is a small step blade fan with staggered fins,if the fan beccomes full of dust the fins don't move as much air thus cooking the ob.I was told to clean all the fans yearly.

Any idea where this "step" fan is located? I'll drag out my servive manual, but I expect that "cleaning the fans" will require removal of the back cover.

Another update to a previous post: Mits is advertising that their 82" lamp-based RPTV meets the new tier 3 Energy Star standards. The standard must be a watts per square inch of screen size for energy consumption and the 82" makes the cut (this could be a watts per square foot standard--lol). This is good news for those of us wanting a large screen. I'd really rather have something like a laser light source that doesn't require lamp replacement, but one can buy a lot of lamps for the price difference between Mits 65" lamp RPTV's and their 65" Laservue. Plus, I see a lot of mixed reviews on the PQ of the Laservue. Looks like we will have large screen options when our Q's go to their final resting place.

Widescreen Review Mag did a comparison of top-end LCD & Plasma flat panels, with the old Sony CRT reference monitor as a baseline. In short, the best LCD (Sony) flat panel was significantly inferior to the best Plasma. Since I don't think Plasma will make the cut for Tier 3 energy consumption, I will have to regard any Sony trade out offer for an LCD as a "second room" set. Turns out that LCD off-axis goes south in as little as 5 degrees, so they are really one-person sets (or two people very close together in bed).

Yes,the back cover must come off,the fan is located right behind the light bulb assy,it's only about 3" in dia.

Hello All:

I do not have any color issues, but do have 1 problem that I keep wondering about. I just do not have any dark blacks any more. This has been an ongoing issue for a while now. Even the top and bottom bars, while watching a BR DVD, are at the most dark gray! Picture just seems too bright for true Black.

Can this be the OB acting up in a different way? Are there any settings where I can force it to black to see if it is a setting or another issue? I seem to remember that when I first got the Q you would have to be careful that you turned it off when done as the screen would be black...now I just don't get that any more!

This problem you are having is exactly what I had and unfortunately still have! I recently had the OB replaced primarily due to purple/blue instead of black as well as severely degraded picture quality! After OB replacement, there was more pop and the colors were pretty good again, but now I am seeing the same problem with the blacks- with them not being black at all- more of a purplish/bluish color and around the edges it is more blue! I have been too busy to call Sony and break them the bad news, but my problem with the blacks is still not right! I know that current model sets have excellent blacks now (kuro and XBR8) and that the Qualia 006 fresh out of the box way back when could not have compared to, but I have a hard time believing that the blacks were this bad when I first bought my Q. I sure hate to have to go through the entire process of getting a replacement OB, but what other choice do I have! If getting another OB isn't going to fix this problem, then what can be done? I have this huge beautiful television with sweet ass detacheable speakers with picture quality so poor that I would rather not watch it! Man this sucks!

Parrish...I do not have the purple as you have. My issue is that my black is Gray at best. The picture just seems too bright.

My only issue with the OB is that I am sure Sony will come out, but if they just look at it and say my color is OK and see nothing else wrong, they may charge for a service call! When you did get the new OB, are you saying that the Blacks were good again? I KNOW that if this is how it looked when I bought the Q I would not have considered it!

Parrish...I do not have the purple as you have. My issue is that my black is Gray at best. The picture just seems too bright.

My only issue with the OB is that I am sure Sony will come out, but if they just look at it and say my color is OK and see nothing else wrong, they may charge for a service call! When you did get the new OB, are you saying that the Blacks were good again? I KNOW that if this is how it looked when I bought the Q I would not have considered it!

Check your Menu settings.
Picture Mode should be Pro not Vivid

The following should be close for everyone for the best Qualia blacks and a natural looking picture

Picture 58
Brightness 31
Color 33
Hue 0
Sharpness 33
Color Temp Warm
Noise Reduction OFF
Direct Mode ON
Cinema Black Pro ON
Color Space Wide
Color Corrector OFF
DTE OFF
Clear White OFF
Detail Enhancer OFF
Gamma Corrector OFF

Check your Menu settings.
Picture Mode should be Pro not Vivid

The following should be close for everyone for the best Qualia blacks and a natural looking picture

Picture 58
Brightness 31
Color 33
Hue 0
Sharpness 33
Color Temp Warm
Noise Reduction OFF
Direct Mode ON
Cinema Black Pro ON
Color Space Wide
Color Corrector OFF
DTE OFF
Clear White OFF
Detail Enhancer OFF
Gamma Corrector OFF


Yes, I am not on Vivid. I will see how I have my settings compared to what you posted.

Parrish...I do not have the purple as you have. My issue is that my black is Gray at best. The picture just seems too bright.

My only issue with the OB is that I am sure Sony will come out, but if they just look at it and say my color is OK and see nothing else wrong, they may charge for a service call! When you did get the new OB, are you saying that the Blacks were good again? I KNOW that if this is how it looked when I bought the Q I would not have considered it!

After installation of the new OB, the picture seemed alot better- especially resolution and detail, but even the blacks were acceptable again, but now I am getting the same problem with the blacks not looking right! If you call Qualia, they will have a local service company come out and look at the set without charging you! They know there is a universal problem with the design of the Qualia006 and it seems to be heat related and OB related!

Hello,
I am a 1st time poster but long time reader. I thought I would just let everyone know there may be more "quiet listeners' out there than what one might think.

Anyway, here's a little history on my Qualia 006 just for the record.

Purchased in 3/2006 for $10,500.00
Manufactured in 12/2005
Serial no. 2002466

I have replaced the lamp twice. The OB was replaced about a year ago.

Although I'm not optimistic, I hope when the time comes, there will be enough of us to pressure Sony into some reasonable settlement.

My Q has not suffered from loss of black levels, the bad OB was changed out when the green haze got too invasive. On occasion, I have noticed a kind of splotchiness in real dark areas, and more of a real dark purple kind of tint to the blacks, rather than dark gray coloring. Some settings adjustment can help in some cases, but I'd start with a call to Qualia concierge and go from there.

I'm glad to see our thread didn't go the way of too many of our OBs. For our first time poster, remember we are a very tolerant bunch, so feel free to post anything A/V or even the odd off topic venture. Right now as I'm sure most of you are aware, CEDIA is going on, so chime in with observations from show reports.

I too believe that larger LCD sets are not really dedicated home theater worthy, although great gains are being made in the black level department, especially with LED backlighting. But for that larger screen display I won't pay $30,000 for an 85" Panasonic plasma, and I just don't have enough experience with or confidence in the Mits laser sets. For now I'm just hanging in with my Q that will still be under some or another warranty for a football season or two.

Hello,
I am a 1st time poster but long time reader. I thought I would just let everyone know there may be more "quiet listeners' out there than what one might think.

Anyway, here's a little history on my Qualia 006 just for the record.

Purchased in 3/2006 for $10,500.00
Manufactured in 12/2005
Serial no. 2002466

I have replaced the lamp twice. The OB was replaced about a year ago.

Although I'm not optimistic, I hope when the time comes, there will be enough of us to pressure Sony into some reasonable settlement.

Welcome to this unfortunate group of Videophiles- I too "hope" for some sort of consideration in the form of compensation for being in this situation! As we near the current deadline for Q006 OB replacement and support we really should be banding together and pressuring Sony for some end game solution to this dissatisfaction. Considering the small group of us who were willing to shell out $10500.00, Sony should consider doing something other than band aiding a problem that cannot be fixed! If nothing else give each Q006 owner a credit voucher toward a future Sony model of television of their choice and alow us to be able to use within the next 10years!

Welcome to this unfortunate group of Videophiles- I too "hope" for some sort of consideration in the form of compensation for being in this situation! As we near the current deadline for Q006 OB replacement and support we really should be banding together and pressuring Sony for some end game solution to this dissatisfaction. Considering the small group of us who were willing to shell out $10500.00, Sony should consider doing something other than band aiding a problem that cannot be fixed! If nothing else give each Q006 owner a credit voucher toward a future Sony model of television of their choice and alow us to be able to use within the next 10years!

Many of us paid $13,000 + $1,500 for the matching stand :eek:

What is the cut-off date for warranty purposes?

"If nothing else give each Q006 owner a credit voucher toward a future Sony model of television of their choice and alow us to be able to use within the next 10years!"


+1

I too believe that larger LCD sets are not really dedicated home theater worthy, although great gains are being made in the black level department, especially with LED backlighting. But for that larger screen display I won't pay $30,000 for an 85" Panasonic plasma, and I just don't have enough experience with or confidence in the Mits laser sets.

I just hope that in 2-3+ years there will be a 73"-85" that comes close, equals or bests (:eek:) the Q for 10K or less. I too wish the LaserVue would turn into something amazing.

jb007,

According to the SonyStyle website the OB warranty has been extended to June 30, 2010, regardless of purchase date.

http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?news_id=278&mdl=KDS70Q006

RonB63,

You can say that again.

At infoComm09 in Orlando a few weeks ago I cornered some Sony reps and laid it on about the Q. Of course I told them that I wasn't there to shoot the messengers, and they were all nice. But I did ask them to also pass along to the powers that be that there is a huge gap in the 70-80+" display size that RPTVs, for all their issues, used to fill nicely. Flat panels are too expensive and as we all know LaserVue is the only other game in town. I also told the Samsung guys the same thing. I was hoping that maybe they would have continued development of an LED light sourced DLP in a big size. Those guys said that they are going so well with their LED LCD program, especially the Edge-lit models, and 3D, that real large displays just weren't on the radar screen.

I have to agree - those of us who desire something 70" or larger and can't go FP due to light or other considerations are being left out in the cold (not enough sales to justify). The few units I see are either very expensive or scary (the Mits stuff - I mostly am not liking the thin is good mantra since it requires them to compensate by mangling the image).

However, after reading the post a few above I have hope. I'm one of the ones who unfortunaly goes through OB's like candy. I'm thinking on my next round I'm going to look into replacing (or better yet upgrading) the fans around the OB to keep it cooler. This makes the most sense to me (other than a new TV).

have you considered going with a smaller fp with better blacks/pq and just sitting closer to it? It is obviously not easy to produce a 70" or larger unit with the same blacks/pq as say a 55" or 60" unit! You would be surprised at how a 60" with excellent blacks and 1080p input can look good enough to more than justify the downgrade in size!

I can whole heartedly recommend two current model flat panels that put my failing Qualia 006 to shame- both of which I have in addition to my Q. The Pioneer Signature Elite Kuro 141fd 60" monitor and the Sony Bravia 55 XBR8 Triluminous RGB LED LCD HDTV! These are both state of the art and excel at producing deep detailed blacks, natural accurate colors and ultra detailed resolution. If I could have the pq of either of these two sets in a 70" display, then I would be happier than I am right now, but as you know, there is nothing even available for those with big bucks- except in the front projection department, but this is not an option for me due to constraints with my home (no basement or totally dark room). After losing interest in watching video with the Qualia due to its gradual degradation and then the realization that it would never look the same, I decided that being the videophile that I am, video is too important to me to not be happy with my display! I first acquired the Kuro and my satisfaction for video was rekindled in a way that I didn't expect! Its been at least 6 months now and I have not lost any interest in video, but haven't spent even a minute of time for 2 channel! I then acquired about a two months ago the Bravia which is the neatest thing since sliced bread- back lit LED with RGB and the performance on it is nearly as good as the Kuro only without image retention issues and more adjustability and better performance for well lighted viewing area! Man- I just wanted to share with you my experience since the Qualia 006 failure! I know I can be happy for a long time to come while waiting for the right 70" set to be created and now I have a back up if one of these two beauties craps out on me!

....I'm thinking on my next round I'm going to look into replacing (or better yet upgrading) the fans around the OB to keep it cooler. This makes the most sense to me (other than a new TV).

Joe,

When the tech replaced my OB, he was more than willing to hand me each and every part for me to take outside and remove the dust with compressed air. There are a lot of fans, one like a gerbil wheel, and they were filled with dust.

This would be interesting to see in person...

http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/17/hdi-concocts-100-inch-laser-based-3d-hdtv-calls-rivaling-techno/#continued

Joe,

When the tech replaced my OB, he was more than willing to hand me each and every part for me to take outside and remove the dust with compressed air. There are a lot of fans, one like a gerbil wheel, and they were filled with dust.

crap, my guy did it himself; i did have to provide him with a can of compressed air when his ran out :)

This would be interesting to see in person...

http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/17/hdi-concocts-100-inch-laser-based-3d-hdtv-calls-rivaling-techno/#continued

That certainly sounds promising. I feel like all the big companies have written off R&D given the "economic climate" and are milking last gen for all its worth. I found it interesting their big claim that next year there would be released a 3d feature every month (hmm doing the math 10k+ set with 12 titles available next year - those better be good titles).

Did you catch the framerate? over 1000hz - if a startup can do that it really shows that the big boys are dragging their feet and are probably thinking about milking the hz bumps for another decade or so.

I just hope that it is possible for some new companies to enter the tv race now that lasers are finally being utilized (patent blocks usually make new entrants face endless litigation/prohibitive licensing fees). There is no reason that 100"+ can't be the new norm and we can't finally see the 1080p threshold blown away (even if for now it is merely extrapolated up from "mere" 1080p material).

Optical block finally went. Blue haze over the screen.

Call to Sony Qualia Concierge went well and was immediately dispatched to Precision Television for replacement. Precision called and part was ordered. Part came in and now Precision and Sony cannot communicate about the proper amount of installation time. So, part is in, but until they can agree that it will take more than an hour to install, I am not going to get it installed. I called Sony and they say they have approved installation. Then called Precision and they say that they have not received approval. Frustrating.....

Spoke with Precision again and they now have approval from Sony, but the part that was in yesterday wasn't really in and so they are now waiting on the part from Sony..... Uggg.

You can safely assume that it will take at least two hours for someone who's never done it before and 1 hour for someone who has! It is definitely not a 15minute ordeal! After having had mine replaced it is still not right! You'd better start planning for an upgrade- life is too short to be without a great hd display!

The part is now in, but they can't get out until Tuesday to install.

Parrish, sad to hear that your replacement didn't go well. Is that the norm? Seems like others have been very happy after having the optical block replaced.

Hard to give up on a TV that I spent over $10,000 on.... Should be able to get more than 20 years out of it, let alone 4 years.

Anyone tried removing back cover to clean fans. I am thinking about trying this weekend. Any pointers will be appreciated. I have had one optical block replacement and trying to prolong its life.

Hi Everyone,

Though I stop in to lurk every so often, it's been a while since I last posted. I haven't yet expressed the sadness for the loss of divedude. Just yesterday I happened upon one of his posts where he was talking about how well all his tests had gone and that it looked like he was in the clear.

My main purpose in writing today is to ask about something much more trivial -- Optical Block Syndrome. Specifically, when I put a grayscale step tablet up on the screen, the step before black is brown rather than dark gray.

You can get an idea of the problem from this screen shot (even though the white balance is off). If the image doesn't show up correctly, you can view it directly here: http://gallery.me.com/davidfokos#100194/coor-20bars&bgcolor=black

http://gallery.me.com/davidfokos#100194/coor-20bars&bgcolor=black

So my questions are these:

a) Is this characteristic of a bad Optical Block?

b) Even though I am not the original owner of my 006, will Sony cover the replacement under their extended warranty program? My Qualia is #187 from January 2005.

c) As I never had my own concierge, whom should I contact. N.B. I live in San Diego.

By the way, I just picked up the Oppo BDP-83 disc player, which I am enjoying -- nice unit. And... just for fun [blasphemy alert] I am going to a B&O reception in La Jolla on the 17th for an unveiling of their 103-inch ($112,000) plasma TV. The people-watching could be even more interesting that the television!

Thanks for your help, and it's good to be back!

David

Just had my optical block replaced. What a hassle to make it happen... But wow, I remember what a great TV this was and now is. I was really missing the blacks... Mike from Precision TV did a great job taking it apart and putting it back together.

Regarding the fans, I cleaned them. If you remove the initial back cover, the fans are exposed and you should be able to do a bit of cleaning without trouble. After watching the whole process of exposing the optical block, I wouldn't recommend going any deeper. The main fan for the optical block is the large fan on the left (if you're looking at the back). Good luck.

Dave:
Just call Sony and tell them you think the optical block is going. They will send someone out to ascertain the condition of it.
I doubt Sony will ask for the receipt.
Sony has been good about replacing the optical block. You should have no problems.
Dave in San Juan Capistrano.

Regarding the fans, I cleaned them. If you remove the initial back cover, the fans are exposed and you should be able to do a bit of cleaning without trouble. After watching the whole process of exposing the optical block, I wouldn't recommend going any deeper. The main fan for the optical block is the large fan on the left (if you're looking at the back). Good luck.

Thanks for the info. Made the mistake of looking at the extremely complex Service Manual and decided to wait for guidance from a Qualian who tried it. When I get back from vacation I will do the cleaning.

BTW I am vacationing in Las Vegas. I ordered my 006 at Sony store at Caesars Forum Shops in Vegas after seeing it at CES almost 5 years ago.

The quickest and easier OB test is to go to a gray screen like the memory stick background. If you don't have a uniform picture, you've got problems. Most Qs will show a green or green/yellowish hazy tint on a portion of the screen. For now, Sony has been good about OB replacements; however, when the extended factory OB warranty expires, that's when the rubber will hit the road with future problems.

I did the memory stick test and that looked o.k. to me -- I didn't notice anything significant.

David

When in doubt call the Sony Qualia customer support 1-877-QUALIA3.

The part is now in, but they can't get out until Tuesday to install.

Parrish, sad to hear that your replacement didn't go well. Is that the norm? Seems like others have been very happy after having the optical block replaced.

Hard to give up on a TV that I spent over $10,000 on.... Should be able to get more than 20 years out of it, let alone 4 years.

It still has this bluish purple cast to it that stands out in dark areas of the picture- with a completely darkened screen in a completely darkened room, the screen is bluish purple- The blacks seem severely crushed- I turned the gamma setting up a notch and this helped to reveal some detail in dark scenes, but this discolored cast is just so disappointing! The only thing that looks halfway decent on this set right now is hd football with fully lighted screen- anything involving shadow detail is unacceptable to view! I just haven't had time to go throught the whole routine again of getting another ob replacement but I will probably try and do so before the deadline! I believe the set was rejuvenated initially, but in no time at all the same degradation returned!

Talk about being really REALLY unhappy. My 2nd replacement Optical Block is now ordered and am awaiting its install. My first replacement lasted about a year and a half. I am embarrassed to have anyone see my Q so I moved my 46 inch bedroom Sony in front of the Q till its fixed. Sux having to squint like that to watch that little TV with the big Green Hulk sitting behind it.

Now, my screen is almost all green tinted now. Just the very far left third is normal. Its like a bad green rash that just keeps growing. My concern is in a short 8 months my "new" OB will be out of warranty. What happens to us then? Screwed by Sony? Maybe should fall under some sort of lemon law thing. Once the "new" one goes to **** in 12 to 18 months (which I now feel is a certainty) my $13,000 TV is a throw away. Just thinking of that give me a serious case of rectal chaffing.

Also does anyone know if these "new" OB's are really new or just refurbished ones that they have previously replaced and taken back. The installer took my old one when they did the first replacement.

I'm on my third - it's less than a year old and I already have a circle of death(mine always does this, center turns yellow).

However, the good news is, if you are willing to do some work and probably void your warrantee, it might be avoidable. There are some here who seem to be getting really long life out of their OB. It looks like it might be temperature related. My house runs around 78, so that may be a significant contributor to early death (what temperature do you keep your house?).

The fix "MAY" be to purchase better fans for the 2 or 3 that cool the front end of the light engine. Unfortunately one is significantly buried in the TV, and I don't think anyone has tried this (I may after the next replacement since I don't see ANY TV in the 70" and larger size I'm excited about - things like the glass front make a big difference).

I suggest that anyone having an OB failure try to negotiate a trade-out with Sony. Call the same number you used to arrange for the OB replacement. There was an earlier post saying that Sony had offered a trade for a 65" LCD, plus cash, for a Q owner having a second OB failure. The deal being offered didn't seem too attractive to me, but perhaps it's better, now. Anyone pursuing this avenue is requested to report back to this forum on any offer, so that we can be guided in our action as the mid-2010 deadline approaches.

I suggest that anyone having an OB failure try to negotiate a trade-out with Sony. Call the same number you used to arrange for the OB replacement. There was an earlier post saying that Sony had offered a trade for a 65" LCD, plus cash, for a Q owner having a second OB failure. The deal being offered didn't seem too attractive to me, but perhaps it's better, now. Anyone pursuing this avenue is requested to report back to this forum on any offer, so that we can be guided in our action as the mid-2010 deadline approaches.

if faced with inevitable death and no on-going service, i would *seriously* consider a trade, even if it meant giving up 5 in. of screen acreage...of course it would have to come with a hefty sum of cash or other offsetting measures, since LCD screens these days are much less expensive, even at 65 in.

I really think they are using refurbs for replacement because they took my old one with them and the serial number on the replacement was several hundred numbers less than my original ob. I think that I will see if they will trade up a LCD with LED LD for the old Q! At this point I would be very happy! I really don't enjoy watching the Q anymore and for me to say this after only 5 years and paying over $10k for it is a travesty!

if faced with inevitable death and no on-going service, i would *seriously* consider a trade, even if it meant giving up 5 in. of screen acreage...of course it would have to come with a hefty sum of cash or other offsetting measures, since LCD screens these days are much less expensive, even at 65 in.

As I understood the previously posted offer, Sony wanted $2K cash from the owner, plus the Q, in exchange for a 65" last-generation LCD set. That's why it didn't look too attractive to me vs another OB that "hopefully" lasts another 2 years. I don't know what these OB replacements are costing Sony, so I don't know if they will sweeten the offer to avoid another OB replacement. If Sony did right by us, I might change my opinion about them. But, to date, I have advised anyone who will listen to avoid Sony products (citing my Q006 experience), and I've already passed on Sony for three subsequent technology purchases. I've got a lot of Sony boxes in my house from the pre-Stringer days. It's amazing how one person can so totally change the character of a formerly fine company.

Ok,after 2 years my optical block finally bit the dust.Everything horribly green.

Should I call Sony or my second party extended warranty provider (Expert Protection 5 year)?

I'd call your warranty provider first. Just like an insurance claim, call the company and report the incident, then go from there.

Ok,after 2 years my optical block finally bit the dust.Everything horribly green.

Should I call Sony or my second party extended warranty provider (Expert Protection 5 year)?

Most 2nd party extended insurance providers will make the argument that you should use the manufacturers warranty first

I agree that the extended warranty insurer may look to Sony for the OB part and maybe even the installation and service call. I still would contact them so there is never the opportunity for the company to claim that they weren't notified at the first available opportunity. Also, I suppose it's possible that the problem could include something outside of the OB, and that may not have coverage beyond Sony's special OB treatment.

Sony proposed two choices. Either they would install a second OB under their extended warranty or I could trade in the Q and receive a $2,500 credit towards another Sony TV from them at list price. Needless to say this would be like selling your Q for at best $2,000 which seems pretty weak.

They made it very clear that after June 30th 2010 I was on my own as far as future OB replacement was concerned. So when, not if the replacement refurbed OB goes out in another 12-18 months then I have a 275 pound piece of junk to put out on the curb. Can you imagine what the neighbors would think of me putting that monster out to be picked up with the common trash? They would think I lost my mind but to pay $5k for a replacement OB that only lasts a year or so would be more insane than just throwing away my beloved Q. In fact I am ashamed I am even thinking abandoning her. Shame on you Sony.

I for one am getting rather disappointed with Sony as I have ZERO confidence this will fix the problem long term and they know well and good that this is a recurring problem and in 9 months they can jettison me.

This is all so disgusting and disheartening! Sorry to pile on, but this reminds me of a discussion I had with a friend regarding cars. I love cars and -- like with the Qualia -- I buy the best I can afford. This has proven to be a good strategy over the long haul.

However, with a couple of high-end cars I've come to realize that the experience of ownership has about 20% to do with the car itself and about 80% to do with the dealer. When the dealer screws up, it ruins what may well have otherwise been the very best car you could own.

In the case of the Q006, Sony is our primary interface as far as customer satisfaction goes. They have dropped the ball so badly here, and so spectacularly, that I can't think of any other example where a company has dealt with me in such an insulting fashion.

A company like Leica might get away with this because of the uniqueness of their products. Sony, however, has lots of competition for everything they make. Each and every time I'm tempted by a new Sony product, I simply tell myself "REMEMBER THE QUALIA!!!" and snap out of it.

Sony's decision to screw us on the Qualia has cost them, in my case, by at least the amount I spent on the Qualia. There have been many audio, video, photo and computer products -- over the past 3 years -- that I would have picked Sony on, were it not for this.

This, of course, does not even begin to account for the impact I have on the people around me. Most of my family and friends consult me before making any electronics purchase. The first thing they hear from me is, "Whatever you do -- DON'T buy the Sony!". When I tell them the story of the Qualia, they are converted into the ranks of those who will no longer consider Sony products.

So, when Sony either goes under completely or is broken up and sold piecemeal -- which is where they seem headed -- I will not be among those who mourn their passing. "Good riddance!" should be the epitaph on their corporate tombstone...

brt3 you make an excellent point and I am hoping Sony is reading these postings. What Sony executive management needs to calculate is what exactly is the purchasing power of this group of Qualia owners. Since we all happily shelled out $13k on faith you gotta assume we are in a different demographic than your average consumer. I am sure that most of us are like brt3 and that we do more than spend our own money (I know my wife sure does) but we also influence many others in their electronics decisions. These are exactly the type of customers any manufacture needs to keep and cultivate.

Also like brt3 I no longer recommend Sony and in fact will actively try and dissuade people from buying Sony due to my feeling of impending abandonment from Sony. I could be wrong and just paranoid so before I do that they will have to drop the ball even further but it sure feels like it is slipping.

To be fair to Sony, I have to acknowledge they did extend the warranty and will be replacing the OB (for a second time now). However after that disclaimer, I do think they have mucked this up and I have zero confidence replacing a flawed technology with refurbished flawed technology for another 8 months is how to take care of your best customers and potential advocates. I have directly purchased 4 other large Sony flat panels and influenced at least 5 others since the Q purchase.

Two of those panels are now at college with my kids and I am in the market to replace those. Before I would only buy Sony but now I am looking at other dates and you know there are lots of other pretty girls out there. Top 2 on my list are a 60" Kuro and the new 55" Samsung 8500. Unfortunately they are 10" and 15" smaller than my Q so they will be relegated to upstairs and are not the solution to my immediate problem.

Anything interesting coming in the 70 inch range you guys know about?

And to pile on: It appears that if Sony speant the extra $25 to replace the existing fans with better designed ones the OB's would last significantly longer. Why would they not do this? (The answer is of course they would have to spend money to find compatible fans...)

And to Pile On: Unless something changes, I will never buy another Sony product. I will also do my best to talk everyone I know out of a purchase. To say I feel burned is a massive understatement. I am an early adopter of lots of technology, some work, some don't. I have had full refunds provided from smaller companies due to their product not living up to its promise.

Shame on Sony.....

Finally.....$2500 off LIST Price. What an insult. This offer tells me everything I need to know about Sony and their approach to their customers.

I haven't posted on this thread in many years. Most of my posts were towards the beginning, when the set was first shown in the CES and I was there and reported on it. I had planned to buy the set at that time for a media room I was planning as part of a renovation for my home but that project took forever and I ended up being one of the last people to buy a new one rather than the first. I also want to say that my set has undoubtedly had much less usage than those owned by the rest of you so that MAY be the entire reason for my experience, but on the CHANCE that it is not, I want to report the following.

I wanted to install the set into a bookshelf type wall unit and put a mask around the screen but I was afraid of the heat that might get trapped that way. To counteract that, my contractor installed a series of very small, totally quiet fans in the shelf above the TV that go on automatically when the set is turned on.

As of now, I have had no problems with my set whatsoever. (I'm sure it is going to implode the next time I turn it on for jinxing myself by saying that). I am still on my original optical block and have never even had to change a bulb. As near as I can tell visually, the picture is the same in every way as it was when I first got it. As I said, for various reasons the set has not had anywhere near the amount of usage I had expected or I wouldn't have bought such an expensive set in the first place, so maybe that is the sole reason for my complete lack of problems. But in the small chance that it is because of the extra venting we installed, I want to at least let you all know about that.

and to pile on: Unless something changes, i will never buy another sony product. I will also do my best to talk everyone i know out of a purchase. To say i feel burned is a massive understatement. I am an early adopter of lots of technology, some work, some don't. I have had full refunds provided from smaller companies due to their product not living up to its promise.

Shame on sony.....

Finally.....$2500 off list price. What an insult. This offer tells me everything i need to know about sony and their approach to their customers.

+1

+10.

$2500 off of LIST price is nothing in real dollars. Any of us can get a reputable reseller to sell us virtually any TV in the upper pricing brackets for THAT much off of list price. Big deal.

Maybe in a year or so we can all gang up for a power buy of something to replace the Qs, if we really are left high and dry.

+10.

$2500 off of LIST price is nothing in real dollars. Any of us can get a reputable reseller to sell us virtually any TV in the upper pricing brackets for THAT much off of list price. Big deal.

Maybe in a year or so we can all gang up for a power buy of something to replace the Qs, if we really are left high and dry.

+10 :)

I had HP do the same thing to my parents (many moons ago). Bad USB interface would not work on anything but a specific version of USB 1.1. They offered them a new scanner. The price was not as good as I could do at Best Buy!!! Needless to say we turned them down (and never purchased another HP product - they never learn)...

Beefchopper....... When your OB goes bad there will be no guessing what it is and you will know. It started very faint over on the right side and it spread to the entire right half of the screen. Peoples' faces over there look like the wicked witch of the east in the Wizard of Oz. Picture is still sharp just green, dim and dingy. Its just a horrible thing, like a recent ex playmate of the year getting fat with pimples.

An offer of $2,500 off list price is a joke. The only comparable TV to our Q Sony has is the 70 inch $19,999.00 70 XBR7 I'm pretty sure if you can fog a mirror and have a pocket full of cash any one of us would get unsolicited offers of a better discount than that anytime, anywhere. IF Sony is actually serious about keeping us all as customers then they would come up with a meaningful credit towards that TV. Without the OB fiasco that 70 XBR7 would have been an expensive but entirely probable follow on purchase on my part. (one gets accustomed to the 70 inches eh)

I might have sour grapes but a crappy offer is worse than no offer at all and this is really eating my shorts. I did a quick Mark II eyeball inventory of the various Sony products sitting around my house sucking power and it's disgusting. I've got multiple Displays, 5 PS3's, one for each TV as a BR player, a couple of receivers, 2 HD camcorders, multiple digital cameras and even a Sony cell phone no longer in service.

I have no doubt you're angry and should be. $2500 is completely ridiculous and an insult to your intelligence. My guess is I just haven't used it enough to have the optical block fail but in case mechanically venting it does prolong the life of the unit, I wanted to let everyone who still is using the set that perhaps they can extend the life that way.

My expectation is that my optical block will fail just after the extension of the warranty is over!

Well, I have the GE Warranty and they do have the option of giving me a set of the same Specifications if they do not want to replace the OB. I wonder just what that may be? I do suspect, however, that if I did call GE, they would find out that the OB is covered by SONY.

I have a much different issue. My OB does not have any color issues. However, my picture is Noisy, blacks are just not there, and colors are not very saturated! Some say that is the OB as well and others say if I do not get color blobs my OB is still OK. All I know is that if the picture looked like this when I was buying it, I would not have even thought of the purchase. It looked great and Sony made a note of saying that the best part was that all we needed to do was at some point replace the lamp and the set would be like the day we bought it! I WISH!

I have no doubt you're angry and should be. $2500 is completely ridiculous and an insult to your intelligence. My guess is I just haven't used it enough to have the optical block fail but in case mechanically venting it does prolong the life of the unit, I wanted to let everyone who still is using the set that perhaps they can extend the life that way.

My expectation is that my optical block will fail just after the extension of the warranty is over!

Any idea what would be the best place to put an external fan to cool the optical block from outside the case.And would the air flow best be directed inside the vents to blow air in or away to suck hot air out of the case?

Any idea what would be the best place to put an external fan to cool the optical block from outside the case.And would the air flow best be directed inside the vents to blow air in or away to suck hot air out of the case?

I'm not sure what is the best place to put the venting (mine is on top figuring heat wants to rise anyway) but I am certain you want to suck air away from the set and never blow air into it.

Well, I have the GE Warranty and they do have the option of giving me a set of the same Specifications if they do not want to replace the OB. I wonder just what that may be? I do suspect, however, that if I did call GE, they would find out that the OB is covered by SONY.

I have a much different issue. My OB does not have any color issues. However, my picture is Noisy, blacks are just not there, and colors are not very saturated! Some say that is the OB as well and others say if I do not get color blobs my OB is still OK. All I know is that if the picture looked like this when I was buying it, I would not have even thought of the purchase. It looked great and Sony made a note of saying that the best part was that all we needed to do was at some point replace the lamp and the set would be like the day we bought it! I WISH!

MPSAN--I checked my GE warranty for this very reason and, as I read it, GE has the option of repair or buyout at "fair market value". Given a $6K OB replacement cost, I suspect they will opt for "door 2". The difficulty is what is "fair market value"? If new Mits 73" RPTV's are selling for $2K, is fair market value less than that? I suspect (and am counting on) the deal to be worth about the same as Sony's offer of $2K off MSRP--and I don't have to buy an overpriced Sony.

blue polarizer has gone bad. My yellowing isn't so bad on my sxrd but can't show blacks anymore, its blue. Also general picture temp is way too blue and washed out.

MPSAN--I checked my GE warranty for this very reason and, as I read it, GE has the option of repair or buyout at "fair market value". Given a $6K OB replacement cost, I suspect they will opt for "door 2". The difficulty is what is "fair market value"? If new Mits 73" RPTV's are selling for $2K, is fair market value less than that? I suspect (and am counting on) the deal to be worth about the same as Sony's offer of $2K off MSRP--and I don't have to buy an overpriced Sony.

I sure hope they don't define that literally as the fair market value of our design flawed, discontinued sets that require expensive bulb replacements and periodic $6000 repairs as opposed to the cost of a substitute set. If it is the former, the "fair market value" of what we've got may be pretty grim.

I sure hope they don't define that literally as the fair market value of our design flawed, discontinued sets that require expensive bulb replacements and periodic $6000 repairs as opposed to the cost of a substitute set. If it is the former, the "fair market value" of what we've got may be pretty grim.

Well, both of you bring up good points. However, I think that they said that at some point they can give you a set with the closest specs as the Q if they believe the Q is beyond an economical repair. I am not sure they mentioned a buy out being cash. I thought they would replace the set with something else...not just $$$. At this point, just what is out there in the 70" range with a picture and specs to nearly match the Q?

Well, both of you bring up good points. However, I think that they said that at some point they can give you a set with the closest specs as the Q if they believe the Q is beyond an economical repair. I am not sure they mentioned a buy out being cash. I thought they would replace the set with something else...not just $$$. At this point, just what is out there in the 70" range with a picture and specs to nearly match the Q?

Time will tell!

i'm getting the itch to buy some new technology in the form of an hd camcorder :)

i'm looking at either one of the new canon or panasonic models (sony is off the table for obvious reasons...).

Canon VIXIA HF S11 or Panasonic HDC-TM300 (or maybe the HDC-HS300 still on the fence as to whether i should get a hybrid hard drive/memory card camcorder).

any inputs, thoughts, suggestions and/or recommendations for other makes/models (other than sony, even if there is a "better" sony model...it will take me some time to forgive) would be greatly appreciated.

i'm getting the itch to buy some new technology in the form of an hd camcorder :)

i'm looking at either one of the new canon or panasonic models (sony is off the table for obvious reasons...).

Canon VIXIA HF S11 or Panasonic HDC-TM300 (or maybe the HDC-HS300 still on the fence as to whether i should get a hybrid hard drive/memory card camcorder).

any inputs, thoughts, suggestions and/or recommendations for other makes/models (other than sony, even if there is a "better" sony model...it will take me some time to forgive) would be greatly appreciated.

I can't speak of the models above but my last HD camcorder purchase was a Canon. At the time the optics were considered equal or better than others based on many prof. reviews. FWIW

Ron

Optical block replaced without any problems,old block sent back to Sony for a rebuild.It will probably end up in one of your TVs in the future.New bulb also installed.TV looks great again.I hope for 2 more years out of this block.Sony installer said the new block is a revised design,but I know better .

Sad news all around it seems. My Q is still up and running but the whole prognosis is so lousy I can't get myself to buy a spare bulb (who knows if it will last that long). A shame when the bulb seems to be worth more than the tv - which post warranty will soon become something I have to pay to dispose of.

My second OB has just developed the "yellow stain"--same failure mode as before. Telephoned Sony, referred to same tech as before (both Sony and tech have history by telephone number), replacement OB on order. Just about the same life as before--approx 2 years.

Sad news all around it seems. My Q is still up and running but the whole prognosis is so lousy I can't get myself to buy a spare bulb (who knows if it will last that long). A shame when the bulb seems to be worth more than the tv - which post warranty will soon become something I have to pay to dispose of.

when i have to dispose of mine i will chainsaw it into manageable pieces and put it out at the curb; certainly wouldn't want it to cost me any MORE than i've already been duped into paying :)

i'll be sure to record the even for posterity and post it on youtube; i'm sure they'll get great viral marketing out of that :eek:

when i have to dispose of mine i will chainsaw it into manageable pieces and put it out at the curb; certainly wouldn't want it to cost me any MORE than i've already been duped into paying :)

i'll be sure to record the even for posterity and post it on youtube; i'm sure they'll get great viral marketing out of that :eek:

Once the optical block warranty expires and it fails again,I think Sony should handle the disposal of the TV at their expense.Maybe they can get them all together and use them to build a monument at their headquarters in Japan.

Once the optical block warranty expires and it fails again,I think Sony should handle the disposal of the TV at their expense.Maybe they can get them all together and use them to build a monument at their headquarters in Japan.

We are investigating e-book readers. Needless to say, Sony is not on the candidate list and we expressed our opinion in a radio call-in show locally, called the" High Tech Texan". He agreed with our dismissal of the Sony product. If Sony wants out of the hardware business, they are following a perfect formula to achieve that end.

Optical Block replaced and Q is as good as now......... but for how long.

http://q006beforeandafter.shutterfly.com/27

http://q006beforeandafter.shutterfly.com/28

Glad it is fixed.
Congratulations!
PS Australia was one of the worst pictures I have seen in a while.

Optical Block replaced and Q is as good as now......... but for how long.

http://q006beforeandafter.shutterfly.com/27

http://q006beforeandafter.shutterfly.com/28


Pretty dramatic change.
What DVR or HTPC are you using ?

Stew

blue polarizer has gone bad. My yellowing isn't so bad on my sxrd but can't show blacks anymore, its blue. Also general picture temp is way too blue and washed out.

Is this diagnosis of the Blue Polarizer going bad a separate issue from the optical block going bad? My Q's problem has been the same as yours and putting in a new ob didn't help- still no real blacks, just bluish purple cast and recently I have been noticing that the edges of the picture are more blue than the center of the picture like there is 1-2 inch prominently blue border around the perimeter of the picture.

Is this diagnosis of the Blue Polarizer going bad a separate issue from the optical block going bad? My Q's problem has been the same as yours and putting in a new ob didn't help- still no real blacks, just bluish purple cast and recently I have been noticing that the edges of the picture are more blue than the center of the picture like there is 1-2 inch prominently blue border around the perimeter of the picture.

How long since the replacement? My last OB (#3) went from perfect to as you describe in a few months. All of mine have done this (yellow center, blue edges). However replaceing the OB has fixed it. The first one lasted a couple of years, as did #2. This last one - not so much...

Is this diagnosis of the Blue Polarizer going bad a separate issue from the optical block going bad? My Q's problem has been the same as yours and putting in a new ob didn't help- still no real blacks, just bluish purple cast and recently I have been noticing that the edges of the picture are more blue than the center of the picture like there is 1-2 inch prominently blue border around the perimeter of the picture.

The consensus is that the blue polarizer, for sure, is burning, causing the OB failure mode of bad color. It is not known if the other polarizer filters are failing. I suspect that since some failures add green, while others add yellow, it's more than one. It is clearly heat related. Some fail over a long period of time succombing to generally higher ambient temps or reduced cooling fan flow because of dust. Some fail very quickly after a power outage when the cooling fan does not continue to run and the blue polarizer overheats. Many people have put their Q's on a UPS to keep the fan running after a power loss. We originally did this to extend lamp life, but it is becoming apparent that the blue polarizer filter in the OB is much more prone to damage from this loss of air flow when the power fails while the TV is "on". I recommend that anyone having an OB replacement put a UPS with at least 450 watts (not VA) steady-state capacity between the Q and the wall, if you want to extend the longevity of the OB. My area of Houston has the power grid reliability of a third-world country (actualy, I've lived in third-world countries with better reliability) so I "test" the UPS at least bi-weekly.

The blue polarizer is apparently a plastic piece that does not have enough ability to withstand even slightly higher temps than "normal". I have been curious why the Sony SXRD front projectors have not had our problems with the blue polarizer filter failure. It could be that the higher price points of the FP market allowed Sony to put a better part in the FP's, or (and I think this more likely) the light path/air flow pattern is sufficiently different in the FP's to avoid overheating the plastic filter.

I am sure that Sony's engineers are aware of the failure mode if they are rebuilding the OB's. It would seem a simple matter to replace the polarizing filter with an upgraded material. Hopefully, the rumored "modified" OB's have this part fixed. I'd imagine the extra cost is measured in fewer than $10 and not makeing this change would seem to be penny wise and pound foolish. I suspect that the first OB faiures (mine among them) were replaced with first-design parts. My hope is that Sony's taken the time to upgrade the part in the current rebuilt OB's.

The tradgedy of this is that Sony has not been forthcoming about the failure mode or if they have upgraded the part. One is left with the suspicion that they are simply trying to get to July 2010 and leave their best customers in the lurch on the basis that "we got 5 years" of use and that's enough for anyone. They don't want to do a recall and fix them all, the way the old pre-Sir Howard Stringer Sony would have done. If the OB's do indeed have an improved part, those of us on the original OB, or an early replacement OB can only hope for another failure before June 30, 2010.

Is this diagnosis of the Blue Polarizer going bad a separate issue from the optical block going bad? My Q's problem has been the same as yours and putting in a new ob didn't help- still no real blacks, just bluish purple cast and recently I have been noticing that the edges of the picture are more blue than the center of the picture like there is 1-2 inch prominently blue border around the perimeter of the picture.

I just had mine replaced yesterday. Blacks are back and contrast is deeper. I couldn't believe how much cooler the color temp got after years of use. Guess i just got used to blue tinted faces. Hoping this OB lasts a couple years.

Note: As to an UPS. Mine has been on an UPS since day one (currently on a 3KW). However, the temperature in my room (with the Q) is probably higher than normal (at lesat sometimes) due to the AC, temperature setpoint, and the 7 channels of audio (plus a few other things). All the fans work (amd are on high altitude mode), and the Tech cleaned them this last time. Yet less than a year on this OB and it's what I consider "bad" (though nowhere near the picture above). Probably a combination of a bunch of stuff as to heat buildup. YMMV

How long since the replacement? My last OB (#3) went from perfect to as you describe in a few months. All of mine have done this (yellow center, blue edges). However replaceing the OB has fixed it. The first one lasted a couple of years, as did #2. This last one - not so much...

OB was replaced just 6 months ago!

WOW This is not a good trend to be seeing. I was hoping it was just me.

Im just using Time Warner and their Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8300HD. They have not updated this POS for years now!

Sorry about the Australia movie........ it was awful in green tint and perhaps worse when the Q was fixed cause I could see how bad the movie really was without the green fog.

Q seems to be running great and the new OB is just like new............ but for how long?

Time will tell!

I looked again and I believe the GE contract says that they will only "scrap" the set if parts are no longer available.

Hmm maybe some newer items are hitting the market 5 million to 1 contrast 200hz refresh and 1 ms response time sounds appealing.. Let us know if anyone gets a chance to see these... I am wondering if these will blow away the laser tvs (but I assume way below the oleds).

http://www.ubergizmo.com/15/archives/2009/11/philips_releases_new_led_pro_hdtvs.html