Funny you should mention that. HD-DVDs look great on my TDP-MT700 (which is still on its third bulb, with under 120 hours so far).

I'm sure it does. Even regular DVD's looked great on my MT700. In fact, if these things didn't do such a great job scaling to 720P, they would probably have a bigger market for HD-DVD right now. I'm probably going to wait a few months to see how the "real" BD launch goes; but part of me is hoping that dies on the vine so we can just get on with HD-DVD (with all studios and player manufacturers on board).

4th bulb just blew. 2 months and 3 days since last trip to Topps. Maybe Toshiba will treat me right.

well i got the refund for the mt700 too. Actually had better luck with regular cs than manager. Every time i spoke to the manager (there was this one guy who just refuses refund flat out no matter what). Last time i called i explained the situation to the regular cs, went on the merry go round with him for a few, then he put me on hold for 2 mins then told me my request for refund was granted and someone will contact me with return address. Everything was smooth sailing afterwards, took 4 weeks for the check to arrive, but that was expected.

gaga
ps i also got an extra mt700 bulb(new design) for sale $200 , topps replaced it before the refund was authorized. It's the new design and has less than 50 hrs, think was around 40, been a while. PM if interested

Just got off the phone with Toshiba CS. No refund for me yet, it's off to Topps again in the morning.

Just got off the phone with Toshiba CS. No refund for me yet, it's off to Topps again in the morning.

Hang in there SSragtop. Suggest you call Tops after they've had it two days and see if it's fixed or sitting on a shelf. If it's sitting, you are probably in line for a refund. Since Toshiba has to pay for these to be returned regardless, they may simply be having Tops verify that the unit really is bad (bulb blown) versus just some numbskull who forgot to flip the on switch on the back.

I've lost confidence with the MT-700. I recieved mine back on Mon afternoon from Tops and my HDMI port is still not working (I again plugged same HDMI cable + DVD player into another display and it works flawlessly). It has been sent to Toshiba at 3 times already and each time they have replaced the main board. A firmware upgrade was also performed during this last service.

I called 866 590 0912 and have requested a refund. The CSR I spoke to sounded understanding and indicated I would get a call back within 2-3 days to go over "options." I really hope Toshiba is consistent with others and does not give me a hard time / turn down my request. Nothing but praise so far as Toshiba has treated me very fairly. Let's see how the next phone call goes.

I called Tops yesterday to check the status of my projector. The lady told me that they were holding it due to repeated lamp failures and that I should call Toshiba for an exchange/refund. So I called Toshiba and the CS I spoke to seemed surprised by this but told me he would call Tops and investigate further. About three hours later, Toshiba called back and told me they were issuing a refund and that Tops would be keeping the projector to use for research. She told me to fax in my receipt and she would call me when she received it. I just faxed it in, so maybe it won't take too long for the check to arrive.....football season is almost here. Now I've got to decide on a replacement. I'm almost considering the PE7700 since they seem to have the problem fixed. Or maybe the 8720, but it is twice the cost, plus I would have to redo the mountind due to the longer throw. Decisions, decisions......

won't take too long for the check to arrive.....football season is almost here. Now I've got to decide on a replacement. I'm almost considering the PE7700 since they seem to have the problem fixed. Or maybe the 8720, but it is twice the cost, plus I would have to redo the mountind due to the longer throw. Decisions, decisions......

Congratulation SSragtop! It sounds like the discusssion for you went exactly as mine did. My rebate's in the bank and the new AE900 is working good. If you have a Costco near you, you may consider that route. If you're anything like me, you are probably pretty "risk-sensitive" right now. OTOH, if BenQ really does have the lamp situation fixed, the PE7700 might be a good choice as well.

If you want something in the same price range, I'd strongly consider the Infocus IN76. It's quite likely that's what I'll replace my refunded MT700 with.

I recieved a call back from Toshiba Monday and I am getting my refund as well.
It will take 7-10 business days for me to get shipping label...3-5 business days to deliver and if I understand correctly, another 4-6 weeks to process check.

I already purchased a Sharp XV-Z2000 from Costco.com since it was a close fit (specs, offset , throw) from what I have read so far. The price + return policy at Costco is very attractive as well and should keep me very happy til 1080p becomes mainstream.

Again, nothing but praise for Toshiba for the quick service, almost 100% no hassle, and standing behing their products. I hope they win HD-DVD. I would not hesitate to buy another product from them.

Has everyone had to send their projector in with a problem or has anyone been able to get a refund with a working model?

Seems all who have posted that have gotten refunds, myself included, had to have a problem with PJ first. Should have no problem with Toshiba.

Technically I am still waiting for mine (early stage of the refund process). I personally would have been reluctant to ask Toshiba for refund if I did not have all the HDMI / bulb issues. It might be worth trying, however. I know the feeling of turning on the MT700 and each time being unsure if the unit is going to work properly or not. Not pleasant.

I have had two blown bulbs but it is working perfectly now. I guess I have to wait for it to blow again.

I was cleaning out my Theater Closet and realized I never returned the last replacement lamp Toshiba sent me just before they bought back my projector (thank God). I believe it is the updated design and it is still packed in the factory double box (never opened).


If you are interested in buying it as a back up or replacement email me at boweryboy@yahoo.com. I think $225 including shipping is fair?


Bill

Bill,
You may also want to post in the PE7700 thread since the lamp is interchangable.

I also have an updated design spare official Toshiba Mt700 bulb still packed in the factory double box ..I did test for 2 hours to ensure that it was a good working bulb (and yes it is).
Please PM at quack724@yahoo.com if interested.

I also have an updated design spare official Toshiba Mt700 bulb still packed in the factory double box ..I did test for 2 hours to ensure that it was a good working bulb (and yes it is).
Please PM at quack724@yahoo.com if interested.


How much are you looking to get for it?

eBay has a number of them for sale under $200. And, yes, I'm interested in getting a lamp for my MT700.

Guys, I'm not sure if I can discuss pricing on the forum. can you please PM at
quack724@yahoo.com . You can be assured I'm not here to gouge anyone.

Watching a little TV this evening and suddenly black screen. :(

I got decent life from my first bulb (as compared to most on this group). Toshiba graciously replaced it and upgraded the firmware. If I got 500 hrs on the second bulb I don't think it's much more than that.

Since I've only lost two bulbs I'm not sure what Toshiba will do, but I will certainly be calling tomorrow and getting them to run over my options. Repeatedly feeding this thing bulbs on my dime is definitely not an option.

I am on my third bulb and it is working fine. I am afraid that it will burn out after my 2 year warranty but way before the expected life of 2-3000 hours. Do you all think they will still give us our money back after the warranty expires?

Guys, i did not experience as many bulb issues like you guys. WHen I did have my MT700 sent back 3 times it was for HDMI issue (twice) and color issues. After the third failure (HDMI went bad again), I complained (nicely) and politely requested a refund. Toshiba didn't try to push fixing the issue again. The CS rep said I would get a call back within 2-3 business days in which I did and got approval for a refund. I received my refund pretty quick as well. Now, this was within warranty period .. but I think if the same issue (bulb in your case) is not going away even after the warranty expires it is still a strong case to request a refund. A lemon is a lemon. I was pleased with how Toshiba handled my issues and would not hesitate to buy from them again.

PJ is boxed and ready to ship out in the morning.

Maybe since this is the third trip to the service center I'll get a call like SSragtop and others have gotten and Toshiba will offer.

benchobi, i don't know if other's got offered but for me, I made the -request-...politely, but firm.

Just passed 1600 hrs on original lamp. Still a great pix with no dimming. Guess I got lucky.

Still no word from Toshiba yet. Called on monday for a status update and was told 5-7 business days from then to get an update from tech support.

The good news is that it wasn't "slap a bulb in and send it back" type deal. It sounds like mine's been taken to the next level.

Benchobi, I called Topps to check on my projector. They told me that they were holding it due to multiple lamp failures. I then called Toshiba and relayed this info to them. They started the refund process that day. I suggest you give Topps a call and see what's up.

SS,

I had called Tops last week and they suggested calling Toshiba if I hadn't heard anything in 3-5 days. After 5 days I called Toshiba but customer svc says they aren't hooked into tech support to get immediate info (hence the 5-7 day wait).

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

I got a message today and called......they're starting the refund process today.

It sure is nice to live in an age of the educated consumer. That is, I'd bet ten years ago we'd never have known that there was an issue with the projector. We'd suck up a $400 expense and move on.

Benchobi, glad to hear.. what projector will you be moving on to? Despite the offset, I moved on to the HC3000 and couldn't be happier.

Benchobi, glad to hear.. what projector will you be moving on to? Despite the offset, I moved on to the HC3000 and couldn't be happier.

I haven't decided yet, but I have looked at the HC3000. It looks good. That Panny also AX100 looks nice, but I'd like to stick with DLP - especially after reading the thread on LCD "burn-in".

You guys are sooo lucky. Mine is still working. I almost can’t wait for my third bulb to blow so I can send it back and get a refund and then get a new (even better) projector. Waiting and watching.

hahaha, how sad is that? "I WANT my bulb to blow now!"

lol, cracks me up :)

You guys are sooo lucky. Mine is still working. I almost can’t wait for my third bulb to blow so I can send it back and get a refund and then get a new (even better) projector. Waiting and watching.

Yeah, I'm somewhat glad to be out considering the relability issues. However, I AM NOT looking forward to trying to fit a new projector to my room - especially if I have to move the mount. :(

Oh I agree - if/when I get a diff projector, it's going to be hell to integrate into my room unless it also has that convenient 0 degree offset.

Well, us 7700 owners are not having problems anymore. I am well over 700 hours. Some are over 1000 hours. I know it would be a tough choice, but we are all very happy.
Warren.

Just buy one with lens shift.

Well, us 7700 owners are not having problems anymore. I am well over 700 hours. Some are over 1000 hours. I know it would be a tough choice, but we are all very happy.
Warren.

My Toshiba is still going strong although I don’t have a lot of hours on it. My first two bulbs were the old style. I still wonder if the new style will last longer for me. It seems like there have only been a couple of people who have had problems with the new bulbs. I wonder if BenQ ever got with Toshiba to give them the fix. When I sent mine in for the second bulb replacement they did a firmware upgrade. Has there been any further information on this?

If I got a refund from Toshiba, I would still be strongly inclined to buy a Benq PE7700, since it would fit the same mount obviously, and based on comments like Warren's above. The other alternative is to "hope" that it lasts until 1080p projectors are available for US$2500 or less but is still under warranty (April 2007 in my case).

I had the MT700 and after getting the refund, got the PE7700. No problems with about 560 hrs. on it. Installation was a snap. Actually the picture on the BenQ is a little softer, so suggest you hold onto your Toshiba UNTIL the warranty is about to expire. Still miss the Toshiba. Throws one heck of a picture.

Still miss the Toshiba. Throws one heck of a picture.

I'll agree with that. It's sad watching a little CRT when just behind it there's a 123" blank screen.

Having a heck of a time finding something to replace the Tosh. I'm still a little gun-shy, so I doubt I'll get the 7700. The current DLP PJs in my price range have ridiculous offsets that won't work in my application without keystone correction. Although the reports from users that have used keystone correction are promising, I'd rather not be forced to use it.

It looks like LCD projectors really have come a long way and I'd be tempted to try one, but I can't see spending a couple grand on a PJ with a one year warranty.

I'm having PJ withdrawals. :p

It looks like LCD projectors really have come a long way and I'd be tempted to try one, but I can't see spending a couple grand on a PJ with a one year warranty.

I'm having PJ withdrawals. :p

How 'bout spending 1.5 grand on a PJ with an unlimited warranty? (Costco AE900 :) )

With over 1600 hrs on the original lamp my Mt700 died. The ready light would not come on. Called Tosh customer service and obtained their account number to ship free to TOPS overnight air. TOPS received it the next day. A day later Tosh rep called me and said TOPS notified them that the projector couldn't be fixed because of no parts and no replacement units available. Told me to fax receipt. Rep called the next morning and told me I would receive a full refund. Said they had a lamp issue that couldn't be resolved. I lucked out since projector is 17 months old. Pays to have a warrantee longer than one year. Ordered a Panasonic PT-AX-100U because of brightness. Hope the picture is near what I had on the Toshiba. Had one hell of a picture.

Wow....

Amazing warranty story. Took 5 bulbs before Toshiba refunded mine. Good choice on replacement PJ.

Where Is The Last Firmware Version Of Mt700 ? and the bulb problems is fixed in new version? tanks

I don't recall the one and only firmware version, but the lamp problems were never fixed for the MT-700 and is why everyone is getting refunds.

An attorney has contacted me and he is considering filing a class action suit against Toshiba. My projector is still working with my third bulb. I guess if it blows again I will be asking for a refund as well. There may be many people out there who are unaware of this problem and these forums.

I don't think any class action lawsuit would even be successful because Toshiba is refunding everyone and even (in my case) paying for shipping. Toshiba has taken care of us on this one. If they could've fixed it, they would. They couldn't, so they gave us our money back. Kudos to them.

agree.. SJK, did ask Toshiba for a refund? If not, I'd just go that route first before legal action. I got my refund with no resistance since my MT700 had documented multiple issues.

To throw in my 2 cents, I can only hope that Sanyo (just ordered the Z5) stands behind their product the way Toshiba did for me. 3 bulbs in less than 300 hours was a bummer, but getting a full refund (haven't received it just yet) after having a projector for almost a year is good service IMHO.

To make a long story short, my company was sent a Toshiba TDP MT700 as a gift from one of our vendors early last year and this projector was given to me to use. After a month of use, the lamp died and I went through the toshiba/tops fix and got the unit back. Another month of use and it died again and I sent it to tops as per toshiba's request. Now toshiba customer service says they won't fix it or replace it. They said they would refund it with a receipt, but I've had trouble obtaining the receipt from the vendor (they say they can't locate it). Now I'm stuck with a lemon and on my recent attempt at resolving this issue with toshiba, they are standing firm.

They've been handing out refunds left and right because they know the product is a lemon. Should I talk to a supervisor or threaten legal action? Any ideas?

I don't know if I would call it KUDOS to give us our money back after multiple failures and ONLY to those who ask. The really should recall this lemon. I am shure there are many out there who have and will spend money on replacement bulbs that they should not have to.

When has everyone's "updated" bulbs been blowing? I'm just over 580hrs on my third bulb and it's going strong - not even flickering these days.

I have to admit my "updated" bulb is going strong also.

When has everyone's "updated" bulbs been blowing? I'm just over 580hrs on my third bulb and it's going strong - not even flickering these days.

what is the deal with these "updated" bulbs and where does one get them?

what is the deal with these "updated" bulbs and where does one get them?

They came out late last year, IIRC. They had a wire adjusted in a different place. There should be links to photos and diagrams around here somewhere. I'd think that every bulb on the market now is the updated design.

When has everyone's "updated" bulbs been blowing? I'm just over 580hrs on my third bulb and it's going strong - not even flickering these days.

Well, Murphy is an *******. I NEVER should have posted saying my bulb was doing well. Didn't this happen to me last time?

Anyhow, just happened again at ~592 hours. This was bulb number 3. And my parents are coming into town in 3 days. Figures. Sigh.

Oh well, Tosh, I loved you old girl....I bid you adieu.

Well, Murphy is an *******. I NEVER should have posted saying my bulb was doing well. Didn't this happen to me last time?

Anyhow, just happened again at ~592 hours. This was bulb number 3. And my parents are coming into town in 3 days. Figures. Sigh.

Oh well, Tosh, I loved you old girl....I bid you adieu.

Yeah, I'm sure you're real bummed about the phatty refund you're about to get :cool:

You know, you can just bring your parents over and let them see my much awesomer (I know, not even a word) H79. Your mom would especially like me...er, it.

It's my stepmom. Ass.

And stop thread hijacking. I'll go pee on your car.

Update - Tosh wanted me to send my pj in to Tops. I asked if there were other options, and she coyly said that was pretty much the only one, and tried to convince me. Then, I asked about a refund, and she told me to email or fax in my proof of purchase and they'd see what would happen.

So, here goes...

You should be fine Jon. Expect authorization for refund from Toshiba in about five business days.

Awesome. I'm crafting my "reason" email now :)

^^^ Let Toshiba know that your PJ is defective and that you are requesting a refund. Should be all that is necessary.

I said that, but in many many words.

Hmm, I just reached 580 on my AE900.

I'm just sayin'.

I'm not a fan of LCD, but thanks.

I just checked my bulb hours and I'm at 1371. Woohoo!

I'm running it standard on high altitude. A bit of fan noise but I can live with that.

My first bulb went out after 200 hours of use (no high altitude fan mode). Got a free replacement and this bulb has lasted almost a year.

I now consider it a great purchase. It was touch and go for a while.

Eric

man, am i glad to have avsforum around so i know i'm not alone on this, and have some clout when talking to toshiba. first bulb died at 100 hours, got a new bulb, second one died, had them fly it back for repairs... and now a year later, third bulb died under 800 hours, and i've been running it in high altitude mode, standard brightness, for the life of that 3rd bulb.

i know it's out of warranty but i hope they'll do the refund for me, since as others have observed here, they really *ought* to do a recall. talk about fundamental flaws.

i guess now i just have to start figuring out a replacement projector. man, and the MT700 was so perfect for me! i mean, other than all the failure.

The PE7700 will install in your setup without any changes needed. No more lamp failures since new lamp design, firmware upgrade.

sigh... my first call to toshiba and they immediately pointed out "Well, your warranty is expired..." and referred me to a local service center. i'm all for outsouring call centers, but the guy i was talking to had a very thick accent such that it was really difficult to communicate with him, which made it tough to argue with him. also, given that the number i called was specifically for toshiba's projectors, it was a little surprising that he claimed to be totally oblivious to this projector's problems. maybe he just hasn't been working there very long?

has anyone managed to get a refund past warranty? i'm sure they're not legally obligated to make good at all, but if it comes down to it and they tell me "sorry you're S.O.L. since it's over warranty" i don't know what i'm going to do. they've discontinued this thing, they already dealt with two blown bulbs from me before, so if they won't do right by me now it basically translates to, "on our second repair attempt we managed to string you along for just long enough that the bulb outlasted your warranty by a little bit... on this documented failure of a product that we quickly stopped manufacturing." projectors are too expensive for that kind of behavior.

ugh. so much for my high regard for toshiba's service. well, i shouldn't speak too soon -- i'll see how future calls go. :(

keep trying..quality of reps depends on who you get. multiple failures indicate a lemon which many ppl on this thread have experienced. you might bring up the fact that others on this thread have received refunds under similar circumstances. and afaik, only Tops is the qualified repair vendor for this unit so you can't just send the MT700 to a local service center.

^^^ Let Toshiba know that your PJ is defective and that you are requesting a refund. Should be all that is necessary.

Yeah, so I guess I should have been more succinct and a little less nice in the letter.

They wanted me to send it to a service center for repair. They didn't have a reason for awhile, but then coughed up that it was because the unit was out of warranty, which I promptly proved was incorrect, other than for the lamp. Anyhow, I grilled the poor guy pretty good, and he couldn't offer me anything. He was very relieved when I asked to speak to a supervisor. They're supposed to call back within 24 hours.

Keep insisting on a refund. The projector has a two year warranty so I doubt anyone is past this point. Sounds like there maybe some belt tightning on the refund policy. In the past one would have to send unit to Tops first, before Toshiba authorizes the refund.

Yeah, I basically asked to know what they're going to do different this time for the "repair" besides replacing the lamp. I have no problem with them checking it out first - and I asked about that, but the impression the poor service guy gave me was that it would be "repaired and returned to me." No biggie, I assumed it wouldn't be too easy to work this out. I figured this belt tightening would happen anyways, but that doesn't dissuade me from the fact that this unit is defective and I deserve that refund.

yeah, i managed to get mine sent to TOPS. i kept asking about a refund, but the guy kept saying, "no, it's a 'repair warranty' " -- whatever that means, as opposed to the other kinds of warranties?? -- "so we have to send it to TOPS."

i was hoping for the "we're out of replacement parts so you're getting a refund" call, but instead i got a call from a woman at TOPS verifying my change of address, which suggests that they're going to repair it and send it back.

good call on asking to know what the repair entailed. i think with 3 lamp failures at this point i should be able to legitimately demand (very politely) documentation on why the previous lamps failed and why they believe it is now fixed.

on the upside, i guess every time i send it back i'm getting a new free 2000-hour bulb. only none of the bulbs ever last close to that long, so maybe the joke's on me. :)

on the upside, i guess every time i send it back i'm getting a new free 2000-hour bulb. only none of the bulbs ever last close to that long, so maybe the joke's on me. :)


Exactly :(. And, I'm going to get cranky if they don't have an answer on the repair question.

i called TOPS yesterday night and left a message asking for faxed records of the detailed repairs they carried out the first time they repaired the projector (on the second bulb failure) and what they were going to do this time. a woman called me back this morning saying, "oh, it's irreparable, with the multiple bulb failures and all. toshiba's going to do an exchange. they'll call you, and normally it'll take a few weeks."

wasn't thrilled about having no display device for a few weeks. wasn't thrilled about getting a new MT700 and going through it all over again vs. a refund.

so when jennifer from toshiba called me a few hours ago and said "TOPS says it's irreparable, and we don't have exchange units, please fax us your receipt again, we're mailing you a refund," i was pretty happy.

i have to admit, through all of this, toshiba has done right by me. i think the projector design was flawed to begin with, and having worked in hardware engineering before, i have a strong hunch those engineers *knew* they were cutting it too close with the design, but beyond that, toshiba has handled all the failures very well, never stringing me along, always paying for fedex overnight to TOPS and the likes.

if anything, the experience has just made me wary of being the early adopter when it comes to projectors. it hasn't soured me to toshiba, though. i don't think they did this on purpose, and they handled it all as well as they could.

(now, i'm probably being particularly forgiving of their flaws since i just got that "we're sending you a refund" phone call 15 minutes ago... but still...)

After 2 bulbs (196 hrs & <100 hrs) and a trip to TOPS, I too am joining the Toshiba MT700 refund club (TOPS told Toshiba my PJ cannot be repaired). For anyone out there that replaced their Toshiba with the BenQ 7700, do the mounting holes match up on the BenQ and the Toshiba? I did a homemade mounting solution and I was curious if I would need to rework it if I decided to go with the BenQ as a replacement. Also, what is your impression of the BenQ vs the Toshiba? I saw one post mention the BenQ is a bit softer....any other opinions?

Thanks!

i called TOPS yesterday night and left a message asking for faxed records of the detailed repairs they carried out the first time they repaired the projector (on the second bulb failure) and what they were going to do this time. a woman called me back this morning saying, "oh, it's irreparable, with the multiple bulb failures and all. toshiba's going to do an exchange. they'll call you, and normally it'll take a few weeks."

wasn't thrilled about having no display device for a few weeks. wasn't thrilled about getting a new MT700 and going through it all over again vs. a refund.

so when jennifer from toshiba called me a few hours ago and said "TOPS says it's irreparable, and we don't have exchange units, please fax us your receipt again, we're mailing you a refund," i was pretty happy.

i have to admit, through all of this, toshiba has done right by me. i think the projector design was flawed to begin with, and having worked in hardware engineering before, i have a strong hunch those engineers *knew* they were cutting it too close with the design, but beyond that, toshiba has handled all the failures very well, never stringing me along, always paying for fedex overnight to TOPS and the likes.

if anything, the experience has just made me wary of being the early adopter when it comes to projectors. it hasn't soured me to toshiba, though. i don't think they did this on purpose, and they handled it all as well as they could.

(now, i'm probably being particularly forgiving of their flaws since i just got that "we're sending you a refund" phone call 15 minutes ago... but still...)

Good for you man.

I just got a call back from the supervisor. He pretty much treated me like an idiot, and couldn't give me any other answer than "they'll evaluate it and do a heat run on it." Sigh. He even told me he didn't have the number to TOPS because they didn't talk to customers. Sigh again. I'm going to call TOPS, get their take on it, and then prob just send it in and hope it gets taken care of like it did for you.

While I do think Toshiba's customer service has been treating people right in general, this lack of knowledge is slightly frustrating. I'm going to be very unhappy if they try to stick me with an exchange unit.

Yes the BenQ has a softer image than the Toshiba. Other than that they are identical. The mounting holes on the 7700 are the same, as well as the throw, offset, etc. Had no trouble with the installation. Did like the sharper image of the Toshiba but still very happy with the BenQ and no lamp issues. If you need a zero offset projector the 7700 is a good choice.

Jon,
You must send PJ to Tops before will they will consider a refund.

Jon,
You must send PJ to Tops before will they will consider a refund.

You see, they didn't tell me that. They gave me the impression I was being denied outright.

I feel kind of silly now :o

PS: And I was so proud of myself for standing up for my rights as a consumer, hahaha.

I had to do the same. On Toshiba's authorization, I sent my PJ to Tops. I included a letter stating I haven't gotten anywhere near advertized life on two bulbs and requesting investigation into the issue with my PJ. Long story short, there were no replacement units available to swap mine with so they sent me a check instead.

I hated to give up my projector but I'm glad they took care of me.

meh, i don't know, now that i have to figure out what to get as a replacement, the BenQ is definitely tempting... but it's been a year and a half, and i just got all my money back as though i put it in a time capsule. a time capsule with exploding light bulbs, i guess... and now the Sony Pearl is only $1200 more than the PE7700... hmmmm... :)

time to start poking around some *other* threads, now...

jon, i'd definitely make sure to include the (polite) letter with the background info on the projector's history of failures, just to make it clear to the TOPS people. but i can't imagine they're doing anything other than telling toshiba every MT700 that comes in with prior bulb failures is a lemon and to pay the customer off.

There are no exchange units for the TM700. Seems like TOPS won't repair any units telling Toshiba they are not repairable. Anyone sending their units in to TOPS will probably get a refund. Still waiting for my check. They said four to six weeks and its been four. Will be calling after six weeks.

... and now the Sony Pearl is only $1200 more than the PE7700... hmmmm... :)
I know we cannot discuss prices here, but can you tell me what prices are $1200 apart? (Is it current street prices of the Benq versus Sony, or what you paid for your Toshiba versus current Sony price, etc.?)

If I could get a Sony VW50 ("Pearl") for only $1200 more than what I paid for my Toshiba (in its first month of availability), I would be quite excited.

Received my refund. If anyone in the Phoenix area wants a free lamp and spare remote they can come and get them.

Received my refund. If anyone in the Phoenix area wants a free lamp and spare remote they can come and get them.

justhanging,
I would love to take that lamp and remote off of your hands and I would gladly pay the shipping to Illinois. Thanks for considering me.

Update - got a call from a charming young woman named Jennifer at Toshiba today. Short story short, I'll have my refund in 4-6 weeks, but probably less. I'm a happy camper!

I have to say, Tosh's service has done a great job, with the exception of not clearly informing me that they needed to look at the unit before even considering a refund. Yeah, yeah, I know it seems obvious now, but after my request they should have said, "okay, we'll consider it, but you have to send it in to get looked at first and we'll go from there," rather than, "sorry, no refund, send it in so we can repair it." That difference was aggravating to me, but, considering how much I bet typical customer service folks are told, I'm not holding a grudge.

So, I'm happy as a clam. I'll miss my PJ - it was a SWEET piece of machinery. Just wished it worked consistently.

One last thing - speaking with Jennifer (she's the one in charge for PJ's customer service or something for TACP), she indicated to me that they've sold thousands of these in North America since they were released, but have only had irreparable problems with under a hundred. Interesting huh? She said she's read forums on the topic as well, and feels kind of hurt when people bash her service because they're trying their best. :)

I'm sure we're a vocal minority, but I guess there is hope for some. She also said that this refund thing is a method to keep customers from waiting for replacement units until they develop the fix. So....a fix a la BenQ's seems plausible....

That's all I got. Don't shoot the messenger. And be nice to Jennifer if you talk to her at Toshiba.

Toshiba was very good about keeping me up to date on my refund. Got the check within two weeks. I still have two unused bulbs and a spare remote I'll need to get rid of on ebay.

Hi Guys,

Is it true that I can use Benq PE7700's lamp for my MT700 projector? Because they $150, $200 cheaper then Toshiba's.

Thanks, Gabor

Yes, it is true, Gabor. Both of my replacement bulbs have been from Benq.

Thanks Chris for the quick response :)
By the way, do you still have lamp problems with your MT700 eve with Benq lamps?
Mine got 240 hours in it, but after I turn it on lamp starts to flicker after 2-3 hours, so I'm switching lamp mode as soon as I start to notice. Lamp still works but based on you guys' experience I don't think I can go on with this lamp...

My first bulb lasted maybe 135 hours and my second one lasted 76 hours. Both were the "old design". My third bulb (the "new design") has around 280 hours on it so far, and I had a few times when it flickered about 40-60 hours ago. I put it into High Power (or Normal?) mode for a while, each time, and the flickering went away.

So here is another happy - sort of - ending. Like others before me, after four lamp failures in 18 months Toshiba agreed to a refund. I used some of the money to get a Z5, and after some calibration, am very happy. I really think it is something that Toshiba is making these refunds. I certainly would not hesitate to buy Toshiba again.

Its interesting to me that on this single thread, I discovered the projector, learned a good place to buy it, learned about the lamp problems, then about the new lamp model, and then that the lamp problems persisted, and finally about the way to approach Toshiba for a refund. Amazing.

If anyone would like my remote control, PM me and I will mail it to you.

What's the number to call at Toshiba to get the refund on the projector and to speak to the famous Jennifer?

Jack

Just had my second bulb go out last night on this projector. the first lasted 225 hours, this one lasted about 450. Talked to Toshiba and I am currently sending it to TOPS. they wanted to first send me another bulb, but i told them I didn't want to deal with another bulb replacement and I think the unit is defective. Has anyone had any luck getting it refunded after only 2 failures. I'm hoping that once TOPS gets this unit they will just say it's not repairable and I can get my refund now. If not, I would appreciate any Toshiba contacts(Jennifer??) as well in case I have to fight them on a refund.

Good News! Received a phone call from Jennifer at Toshiba last night and they are gonna give me a refund. She said the multiple lamp failure on this model wasn't repairable and they do not have any replacements. She said it would take 4-6 weeks to receive my refund. Not bad after only 2 bulb failures. While the bulb problem was disappointing, I give Toshiba customer service a big thumbs up!

Hi all.
I just joined this forum because of the now all too infamous Toshiba MT700. I am beside myself trying to figure out what to do.
My shiny new MT700 arrived in the post two days ago. I found this site the day after it was posted. It’s down stairs next to my new 80" screen. All bought for my 30th birthday.
Does anyone know if all MT700's are defective?
Should I get rid of it ASAP? The company I bought it from is very good to deal with and I think I might be able to swing a refund.
I want it to work. I spent the last two days in work making a stainless steel ceiling mount for it and it looks the bizz but looking at all the posts about lamp problems makes me want to send it back tomorrow.
I beg the question is there anyone out there that has a MT700 with a lamp life of over 1000 hours. Toshiba's stated 3000 hours seams to be a fairy tale.
No offence but I don't want to join the already large MT700 lamp failure club. By the way I had a problem with my Toshiba 340 DVD player and they gave me a refund and paid the postage so it's across the board that their good customer service stands. But my brothers same DVD player went the same way so quality is a problem with Toshiba.
Thanks...

Not all of them are. I'd use it a lot to see how it fares. Toshiba will take care of you if you have problems - they're great. I'd definitely buy from them again (and this is after having a defective MT700 that I got a refund for).

You may want to consider the sister projector the BenQ PE7700. After getting my refund on the Toshiba, have no problems since. The BenQ is also zero offset. Am surprised you were able to find a dealer selling the Toshiba. They have been unavailable in the US for about a year now.

Oooh good point. I almost bought the BenQ as a replacement.

I second the BenQ PE7700. The toshiba and the BenQ are pretty much the same projector and BenQ has hashed out their lamp problems as far as I know. People are reaching over 1000 hours on the BenQ, so I guess the lamp issue is taken care of. Good Luck!!! :)

I have a new bulb and firmware from Toshiba and I am just over 200 hours on the new bulb. I have had the projector for a little under 2 years. So far so good. Great picture. Are there any others out there who still have this projector and if so can you list how many hours you have on your lamp?

You may want to consider the sister projector the BenQ PE7700. After getting my refund on the Toshiba, have no problems since. The BenQ is also zero offset. Am surprised you were able to find a dealer selling the Toshiba. They have been unavailable in the US for about a year now.


I am based in Ireland. I bought the MT700 because it dropped in price from €1700 to €1250. At that price it was too good to refuse.
I was looking at the BenQ but the price is at €2800 in Europe so it was Toshiba for me.

I have decided to send my mt700 back and as a result I am now looking again for a good projector around the €1500 mark.
Does anyone have thoughts on Optoma hd72i.
thanks again..

Are there any others out there who still have this projector and if so can you list how many hours you have on your lamp?
I still have my TDP-MT700, and my bulb (the first I got of the new design) has 290+ hours on it. I still do expect to eventually send it back to Toshiba, though.

I still like it enough that I would strongly consider a Benq PE7700 to replace it, except that I really want a 1080p machine.

Thanks Chris. I am also ever 200 hours on the new bulb and I have a feeling it may last longer than others believe. I have had several conversations with Toshiba and they claim that there are many of these units out w/o problems. It is good to know that they are taking care of the ones that do have the problem. It is also interesting that the majority of BenQ’s with the new bulb and firmware seem to be working just fine. Toshiba did claim to update my firmware when they replaced the bulb and the BenQ and Toshiba seem do be identical. I would be surprised if BenQ did not give Toshiba the same firmware upgrade that they are putting in their own units. Would there be any reason not to?

The only thing I know about the firmware is that it was about a year ago when Benq specifically made the firmware available that was said to "fix the bulb problem" (version 0.49?, for Benq only). Around that time, many of us expected Toshiba to have a matching new firmware available as well, but they never did, certainly at least not any widely-announced one. The fact that they have been refunding the purchase price to many customers implies that Toshiba either had some reason that they could not release a "bulb-fix" firmware, or that they simply decided it was not worth trying to do so. Toshiba is currently out of the home-theater projector business entirely, so that may also be why they did not have a later firmware upgrade available.

Maybe someone can tell me what I am seeing. I noticed “sparkles” on the faces and in lighter areas of a movie I was watching last night. It was not on one DVD only. It almost looked liked missing pixels but they were green or yellow. Any help would be appreciated.

Maybe someone can tell me what I am seeing. I noticed “sparkles” on the faces and in lighter areas of a movie I was watching last night. It was not on one DVD only. It almost looked liked missing pixels but they were green or yellow. Any help would be appreciated.

The best way to narrow a problem like this down is to start at the SOURCE change the player then try a different CABLE. Now if the problem is still their you know it's the pj, at that point, I would do a complete calibration, after calibration one has to consider a repair and weight the cost of repair vers replacement ....Always ask up front for the cost of "diagnostics" before the repair.

Hope it works out.......

Do you guys think I should send it back and get my money back for this? What other projectors are similir or better in terms of picture quality?

Do you guys think I should send it back and get my money back for this? What other projectors are similir or better in terms of picture quality?

i recently took my Toshiba refund for this projector and purchased the Sharp Dt-500 from costco. Picture quality is very similar and the blacks and contrast are slightly better than the Toshiba. Spent less and got more, can't beat that. I think the Twin brother of the DT-500(xv-z3000) can be had on closeout at BestBuy Magnolia for the same price. It's apparently the same with an extra iris for even lower light output for better blacks/contrast - depending on room, screen material, and screen size, the z3000 may work for some as well.

A used Optoma H79 with DC3 is a nice step up ;) Lens shift, even more quiet, better black level...they seem to be going for about $2k

How do you think the Panasonic AX100 compares in terms of contrast?

Me? I've never seen the Panny. That said, I have yet to see an LCD PJ that I like :( I much prefer DLP so far.

I know, I love my DLP but it may be hard to find one that will fit in with my setup. O offset and short throw. I am also looking at the DT-500. Any other suggestions? I will miss my mt-700.

The H79's throw is on the shorter end of medium, and it can fire straight ahead :) I even know of a friend that will probably be selling his shortly to upgrade to a JVC RS1.

Other suggestions? Call me crazy, but you could always get a BenQ PE7700 :D

Sorry, the PE7700 is one road I will not go down. I am looking for worry free this time. I will check out the H79. I am looking for new. In fact warranty is one criteria I am very interested in. In fact I just remembered I charged my MT-700 on my American Express. I am going to investigate if my warranty is doubled. I think the DT--500 may work as well as the Panasonic and Sanyo LCD. I really would like a Darkchip2 or three DLP though.

Just FYI - the H79 had a minority amount of early bulb dimming as well, but the problem did not seem widespread. If the bulb got to about ~300ish hours it was usually good to out past 1500. Optoma apparently took decent care of people with the warranty though, but I don't have specifics.

I would have bought the BenQ as a replacement if I didn't want to upgrade - it would have saved me a bunch of cash, and all the indications seem to point that BenQ has the issue pretty well resolved. That was just my impression, however.

Jumping in late to this thread, so my apologies if I am missing important info -

It seems that you folks (Razee and SJK) are considering some fairly old technology. Is there a specific reason for this?

THe last year has been a banner one for PJ technology. If you are looking for something to replace the Benq 7700 or the Tosh MT700, there are MANY options out there that will cost considerably less than your looking at.

I could be wrong, but in today's market, $1000 will get you about the same picture on the wall as $2000. The $2000 PJ will simply have more features, such as lens shift, dual irises, etc.

If light output is not an issue, the veteran Optoma H79 is a nice unit, but bulb dimming was definitely a model killer back about a year ago for this one. If you can live with 300 lumens, then it throws a great picture.

For LESS money, a brighter and possibly even better picture, the Mits HC3100 is a darkchip 3 unit with the latest tech.

For LESS money than the 3100, the Mits 3000, which can still be found, will throw a tremendous picture, better on all counts than the 7700 or the MT700 according to professional reviews.

For even LESS money than the 3000, the Mits HD1000 will throw an image better than the 7700 and MT700, that's brighter than the all of the above, with a trade-off on slightly less contrast. If you have a big screen (120" daig. or bigger), its phenomenal, and can be had shipped for about $900 US. I have owned both the 3000 and th 1000, and I shipped the 3000 back because the 1000 looked better on my 133" screen.

I have no first hand experience, but the HD72 is good unit, as is the newer HD73, and there are several LCD options out there at the $2000 level that are incredibly flexible in their application.

It's a great time to buy a new PJ :)

Thanks TSO. My problem is with the offset from manufacturers like Mitsubishi and Optoma. My setup now is ceiling mounted with 0 offset. I have a rafter and my ceiling is not particularly high. I think I am stuck with the LCD’s with lens shift or I need to find a Manufacturer who makes DLP’s with less offset like Sharp. I would love any other recommendations.

As SJK said, all of the DLP PJs that you mention have large negative offsets, and cannot replace the MT700 or BenQ PE7700 without major room re-arrangement. Their PQ is no better, either. We've already spent the money on our MT700's. The only DLPs that will fit and have equal, or better, PQ cost around $1K more.

This is why I'm considering getting one of the under $2K LCDs. However, I'm waiting for my finances to catch up (and possibly a mid-year surprise 1080p PJ coming into view at under $2K).

BTW, before I got my MT700 from the original owner, I was a long time LCD owner, so I'm not adverse to getting another LCD PJ. However, it wasn't until the latest round of LCD PJs (Z5, Ep400 & AX100) that their PQ have come close to what the MT700/PE7700 can do. At least BenQ has done something about the lamp problem, Toshiba just hopes the problem will go away. At least Toshiba has refunded the purchase price to original owners (only :mad: )

BTW, my lamp warranty company (Repair Master/Warrantech) still hasn't sent me a replacement lamp :eek: (the excuse - it's on backorder, since last November :eek: ). That is my latest complaint about their service - they never notified me about the ownership transfer, and refuse to update their website which still shows the original owner when I access it :eek:. They also refuse to acknowledge that the PE7700 uses the same lamp, which is currently available (both their CSRs and "Engineering" staff). Note that Repair Master will not call me nor send me an email, even though they have both - I am forced to call them for anything.

My frugal side asks: "why should I spend $400+ on a PE7700 lamp, when I can add a $1K and get a PJ which works (in my LR/HT)"? As I noted above, something like the Z5 will satisfy my use and keep my budget happy (sort of, if I consider the MT700 to be a total write-off).

SJK -- Just a note, FYI. I'm considering the Z5 because: (1) it will work with my screen - I have to use an ND2 filter on my MT700 with my Da-Lite High-Power Screen and (2) Art Feierman gave the Z5 a good review: http://www.projectorreviews.com/Manufacturers/sanyo/PLVZ5/index.asp. On his Image Quality page, he said: Turns out, the Sanyo PLV-Z5 is exceptional in terms of shadow detail, exceeding that of every other under $10,000 projector I have reviewed, except one, the almost twice the price Samsung SP-H710AE. Even my (and I really am pleased with it) BenQ PE8720, with its Darkchip3 DLP (blacker blacks, higher contrast than Darkchip2), comes up short, and my BenQ is pretty well tuned!

Ct-wiebe the Z5 is on my short-list as well as he Panny and the Sharp DT-500. I also hope the picture will be as good as my MT-700. I really want good blacks so I may lean towards the Z5. It also has a better warranty. I still have to make sure I can get my money refunded from Toshiba. I wonder if anyone knows how the lumens and “true” CR ratios of the above projectors compare to the PE7700 and MT-700?

Has anyone checked out the Optoma HD7100 I just found this one. It looks like a similar price ad setup to the MT-700's with the latest Darkchip3 DLP technology?

SJK - make sure to read about the various Optoma bulb problems. There were a bunch on the H79/H78. I'm not sure how the HD7100 fared, but . For the $1K difference you may want to try the DT-500 from Costco with a slight tilt. If you don't like it then you can just return it.

I think you asked in the DT-500 thread for how much keystone you'd need. I couldn't answer because at the moment I'm running with a fairly severe tilt, even worse than taking into account the 8% offset difference between the MT700 and DT-500. It doesn't bother me much, so you might be okay with a slight tilt. I ran my MT700 with a few inch tilt for quite awhile and was fine.

Thanks gimp. I am sure I could raise my projector up 3-4 inches and lower my screen 1-2 to make this work. That would give me the 7 or so I need.

At least Toshiba has refunded the purchase price to original owners (only :mad:
Claus-

Have you considered getting in contact with the original owner to see if he/she will cooperate with you to get a refund from Toshiba?

BTW, My MT700 is up to almost 300 hours on its third bulb (first new-style), but I expect to have to work with Toshiba soon enough.

Thanks gimp. I am sure I could raise my projector up 3-4 inches and lower my screen 1-2 to make this work. That would give me the 7 or so I need.

I have the Sharp DT-500 also and with a slight tilt. I have very low basement ceilings and actually the spot where the projector resides is lower than the ceiling in the rest of the basement due to ductwork. The MT700 worked perfectly for me with 0 offset but did have to tilt the projector slightly with the DT500. the Sharp is a 1280x768 projector, so there is a bit of lens shift you can use. about 1.5-2 inches up or down.

Kudo's to Toshiba in regards to handling my refund. Just got my check over the weekend. The whole ordeal took less than a month.

Thanks glowkiss. I am going to send mine back as well. I have already had two bulbs blow and I want to send it back before the warranty expires. I think they just replaced bulbs and never “fixed” anything. That is essentially my argument. Anyway, how do you think the picture on the Sharp compares and do you find it to be louder than the Toshiba? Also, did you look at any other units and if so which ones?

I am considering the Sharp, the Z5, the AX100 and I think there is one Optoma that has a short throw low offset. I really loved my Toshiba. Oh yah, one more “crazy” consideration is the BenQ 7700. I do have a spare bulb, but I am still not 100% convinced ther is not an inherent design flaw with this model.

One more question for those in the know. Will a 1280 X 768 unit have a different throw size than my 16:9 screen? 16:9=1.78 1280X768=1.67. If so will it be larger or smaller?

Thanks glowkiss. I am going to send mine back as well. I have already had two bulbs blow and I want to send it back before the warranty expires. I think they just replaced bulbs and never “fixed” anything. That is essentially my argument. Anyway, how do you think the picture on the Sharp compares and do you find it to be louder than the Toshiba? Also, did you look at any other units and if so which ones?

I am considering the Sharp, the Z5, the AX100 and I think there is one Optoma that has a short throw low offset. I really loved my Toshiba. Oh yah, one more “crazy” consideration is the BenQ 7700. I do have a spare bulb, but I am still not 100% convinced ther is not an inherent design flaw with this model.

I think the picture on the DT500 and the MT700 are close. The DT500 has a lower black level and seems to be a little brighter to me. The lower black level is definitely noticeable when watching movies, both projectors look similar watching hi-def sports on cable. The colors are a little more accurate on the MT700. The greens are gonna need some tweaking on the DT500, hopefully once the service menu codes are known some tweaks can correct this. It is minor and not noticeable with most material but the greens are a bit limey in nature. The projectors are about the same in noise level, especially in low lamp modes. They sound different though. The Sharp has fans near the outside of the projector and you can hear them whirring. The Toshiba seemed to be more internal and deeper sounding. tough call on noise. I was looking at the optoma 7100, benq 7700, and sanyo z5. The Optoma seemed to be having some bulb issues that weren't being addressed well with Optoma. The lens shift would have been nice but after dealing with bulb issues on the Toshiba, I didn't want to go there again - plus it was at least 500$ more. The sanyo was intriguing also, but I think I'm a DLP guy based on DLP and LCD's that I have seen. The Benq was definitely in the running since they seemed to have addressed the bulb issues but I wanted to try the sharp since it had better specs.

I think the picture on the DT500 and the MT700 are close. The DT500 has a lower black level and seems to be a little brighter to me. The lower black level is definitely noticeable when watching movies, both projectors look similar watching hi-def sports on cable. The colors are a little more accurate on the MT700. The greens are gonna need some tweaking on the DT500, hopefully once the service menu codes are known some tweaks can correct this. It is minor and not noticeable with most material but the greens are a bit limey in nature. The projectors are about the same in noise level, especially in low lamp modes. They sound different though. The Sharp has fans near the outside of the projector and you can hear them whirring. The Toshiba seemed to be more internal and deeper sounding. tough call on noise. I was looking at the optoma 7100, benq 7700, and sanyo z5. The Optoma seemed to be having some bulb issues that weren't being addressed well with Optoma. The lens shift would have been nice but after dealing with bulb issues on the Toshiba, I didn't want to go there again - plus it was at least 500$ more. The sanyo was intriguing also, but I think I'm a DLP guy based on DLP and LCD's that I have seen. The Benq was definitely in the running since they seemed to have addressed the bulb issues but I wanted to try the sharp since it had better specs.

Thanks. What do you mean be lower black levels? Do you mean darker or not as dark? Do you think the Sharp has as much “punch” as the Toshiba? Also, how do you think it handles shadow detail? I think the Toshiba handled shadow detail amazing but it was only “very good – not great” in terms of overall black level. It could have used a little more “punch”. But I was not complaining.

My refund check came today. I will miss my MT-700 – but I won’t miss worrying about my bulb blowing. I have an extra new bulb if someone wants to PM me I can make you pretty good deal. Anyway I am leaning heavily towards the DT-500. In fact I have an order in for one but I am going to make sure it isn’t too noisy before I decide to keep it. I will miss this projector and this thread.

...Yeah, I miss my MT700 as well. I really like my H79, but it has nearly 30% less lumen output (I didn't know this before buying), and while it's not bad...I definitely miss the plasma-like output of the Tosh. The H79 has a lot of things going for it, and it is a better unit for other reasons, but I just wanted to say how much I miss the MT700 as well :)

If you don't have a Silverstar, that would be a quick way to get that brightness back.
Warren.

If you don't have a Silverstar, that would be a quick way to get that brightness back.
Warren.

I have an optoma Graywolf (spec'd 1.8 gain, but I think it's more like 1.4-1.6), and the PJ mounted near mid-screen - so the brightness isn't bad. it's not worth buying a new screen at least. I just found that I was noticing the difference and would wax nostalgic about the Tosh. Nice suggestion though :)

Thanks. What do you mean be lower black levels? Do you mean darker or not as dark? Do you think the Sharp has as much “punch” as the Toshiba? Also, how do you think it handles shadow detail? I think the Toshiba handled shadow detail amazing but it was only “very good – not great” in terms of overall black level. It could have used a little more “punch”. But I was not complaining.

the sharp has a darker black than the Toshiba and better shadow detail... Although getting the best of both dialed in is a little tricky. You can reduce brightness to a point where the black level is amazing but at a cost of shadow detail. Turning up brightness brings out some great shadow detail and still a great black level, but there does appear to be some 'noise' in the dark areas on some material. I think you'll be very pleased with both, once you find the sweet spot on the brightness and contrast slider. I think the image brightness is very similar as well. With the better black level on the sharp, i think it gives the appearance of being slightly more punchy than the Toshiba. I don't have any factual measurements to back this up. But i was only about 2 weeks between projectors and brightness is not an issue to me. There is a slight brightness uniformity issue in the upper right corner on the sharp, an issue i didn't have with the toshiba. Good luck with your purchase, I'm sure you'll be happy as I was with this purchase.

Hooray! RepairMaster/Toshiba finally came through with a replacement lamp for my MT700. It's been 9 months (I've been bugging RepairMaster for 3 months, and they didn't notify me about the warranty transfer, I had to call them :eek: ). Now I get the chance to see how long this one lasts. I may see about getting a UPS with voltage regulation for the PJ, although my power is pretty good quality.

Good luck Claus!!!! I hope this one lasts you a while. :)

That's good to hear, Claus. My "new-design" bulb is over 300 hours and still going. I haven't been casually watching the projector as much as I did with the Infocus X1 I had before.

I still haven't installed my new lamp yet because I want to take some pictures ot it before I do.

ASIDE: I've had my backup HC3, LCD, PJ since 9-25-2005 (I just checked). I'm up to about 800+ hours on it (in about 17 months, minus about 2 months of vacation time). Lately, we've been using it at about a 25 hours a week rate, now that I have DirecTV HD service - the Super Bowl (OTA - CBS-HD) and Discovery HD Theater looks great on it).

I'm getting anxious to get the MT700 back up and running. I'm not going to baby the MT700 (i.e., change my viewing habits). However, I'm seriously thinking about getting a UPS with power conditioner for it (as a precaution) even though my power is fairly stable.

I'll keep everyone posted on my results with my replacement lamp. If and when it goes again, I'll have to decide what to do (but probably exercise the warranty again, if replacement lamps are still available - now that I know that Warrantech/RepairMaster will give me a credit, if I have to buy a PE7700 lamp). Hopefully, affordable 1080p PJS will be available by then (dream on :rolleyes: ). I hope to keep my MT700 running until after the next round of PJ updates in the fall of this year.

I just talked to Toshiba this morning... They are sending me a refund for my TDP-MT700.

It was a great projector for almost two years, except for the bulb problems.

Got your PM. I may try the same.

I just talked to Toshiba this morning... They are sending me a refund for my TDP-MT700.

I don't know how much you guys paid for your MT700, but with the refund you can probably buy the new Epson Power Lite Home 1080 (it's only U$ 2.999!), a true 1080p LCD very well reviewed at ProjectorCentral. I've had a TW100 from Epson and it was great.

That's what ChrisW6ATV is doing, and if I can get a refund from Tosh, I may do the same. My situation is a little different, but I will still try.

As Claus said, I have ordered the Epson Home Cinema 1080 projector (same as the model EMP-TW1000, apparently). Beside the fact that its price is not very far above the price of the MT700 when it was released about two years ago, the Epson should be a good replacement for these reasons:

-The Toshiba has "zero lens offset", which is unusual, but it was ideal in my viewing room. The Epson has "lens shift", that essentially lets you "dial in" any offset you want, even a negative offset, as well as left/right positioning that will let me mount it in the exact same place as the MT700. I doubt that is possible with any DLP projector sold for under US$6000, which would still not be 1080p. (Many other LCDs have this ability as well.)

-LCD projectors have usually not had the black-level abilities of DLP projectors, but the Epson TW1000 has been compared favorably to even some 720p DLPs for its black-level performance.

-The MT700 has a very wide-angle/short-throw lens that was critical in my viewing room, and the Epson is one of only two 1080p projectors that can equal or approach it. (The Panasonic PT-AE1000 is the other.)

I can't wait for mid-April!

So you guys are lucky Tosh didn't fix your projectors. ;) I am stuck with my BenQ 7700 with ~1700 hours on it. Still loving it though.
Warren.

Warren, since I bought my MT700 second hand (and Toshiba won't transfer the warranty), I'm in the same boat (unless I can work a deal with the original purchaser). I'll have to see how long my "new" lamp lasts and then relagate my MT700 to the electronic trash heap (or tear it apart and see if I can "fix" it).

I still think the "fixed" PE7700 is a great projector, and if I was not set on getting a 1080p projector (blame Amir at Microsoft for that :) ) , I would probably have bought a PE7700 to replace my MT700, especially at their current prices.

Oh, it is a great projector, but I would sure like that money toward a RS1.

Warren.

One of my buddies just replaced his H79 with a RS1. It should be in his theater next week after it gets ISF'd. Waa Waa Wee Waa! Can't wait to see it!

Unfortunately, I just saw a nicely setup RS-1 on blue-ray, hd-dvd, and sd-dvd. I don't mean to hijack this thread but as a pe7700 owner (MT700 clone) it is interesting to see what all the fuss is all about from comments in the more expensive forum.

I could say that without a doubt, the RS-1 is outstanding. With all material, even Revenge of the Sith on SD-DVD, everything had that looking out a window feel to it. The space scenes were black, even with plenty of white elements in the image. After the viewing I came home and fired up the Benq and played the same scenes on a tweaked ffdshow htpc. For me, this is my best source for sd-dvd and I believe it's not that very different from my xbox with hd-dvd, perhaps lacking a bit of detail. Anyways, the picture on the benq feels like there's just that bit of grey haze over the whole image. I can't really say that there's less detail on the benq. I suppose that may require an A/B comparison, but the noticeable difference is that on the RS-1 everything seemed more sharply defined and had more of a 3-d look to it. And of course, the blacks were just spectacular.

It's really an unfair comparison but overall, for the price, the benq and I'm sure it's sister pj, the MT700 are both great values. Sure it gives up on PQ with respect to the RS-1 but I would bet most people would be more than happy with either of the twins, especially at the price they're going for now. And if I hadn't seen the RS-1 in person, I would still be really happy. Now I'm not so sure :-)

Regards

Worry about my lamp. It's my second lamp. Almost 200 hours. I just saw new PE7700 firmware solve the lamp problem. I am wondering if I can use pe7700's firmware on My MT700. Is there anyone has experience. My PE7700 already ran out of warranty.

I have never heard of the Benq firmware being used on the MT700. Unlike some other projector brands, these ones are not user-upgradable. If you are the original buyer of your MT700, you should probably try to get a refund from Toshiba, as most other owners have done. They are a very good company to deal with on this issue.

But my MT700 works fine. I do not use it very frequently. I only have less than 200 hours on this new lamp. I doubt if I can get refund in this situation.

Hi guys, I have two bulbs for this projector that I would like to sell as I no longer have the projector. I really miss the picture this projector put up. I meant to list these in December but got overwhelmed with work and didn't have time.

Both bulbs are brand new and never been installed. I realize there are some design differences but I don't know enough to tell you if I have old or new. If you're interested send me a PM and I can send you pictures.

Thanks for your interest.

Bulbs are posted on ebay, item #150124209859.

As Claus said, I have ordered the Epson Home Cinema 1080 projector (same as the model EMP-TW1000, apparently). Beside the fact that its price is not very far above the price of the MT700 when it was released about two years ago, the Epson should be a good replacement for these reasons:

-The Toshiba has "zero lens offset", which is unusual, but it was ideal in my viewing room. The Epson has "lens shift", that essentially lets you "dial in" any offset you want, even a negative offset, as well as left/right positioning that will let me mount it in the exact same place as the MT700. I doubt that is possible with any DLP projector sold for under US$6000, which would still not be 1080p. (Many other LCDs have this ability as well.)

-LCD projectors have usually not had the black-level abilities of DLP projectors, but the Epson TW1000 has been compared favorably to even some 720p DLPs for its black-level performance.

-The MT700 has a very wide-angle/short-throw lens that was critical in my viewing room, and the Epson is one of only two 1080p projectors that can equal or approach it. (The Panasonic PT-AE1000 is the other.)

I can't wait for mid-April!

ProjectorPeople has a nice price on the Epson through tomorrow. Any update on how the Epson 1080 compares to the MT700? My MT700 has 1766 hrs on its original bulb and still going. Looking at upgrading but depending on the Epson's PQ compared to MT700 might just get a another bulb and upgrade after the original and replacement goes.

ProjectorPeople has a nice price on the Epson through tomorrow. Any update on how the Epson 1080 compares to the MT700? My MT700 has 1766 hrs on its original bulb and still going. Looking at upgrading but depending on the Epson's PQ compared to MT700 might just get a another bulb and upgrade after the original and replacement goes.If you read the Epson 1080 thread, ChrisW6ATV replaced his MT700 with the Epson 1080 and loves the "improvement".

Michael_Truong -- I'd be worried about the lamps sold on ebay. They are most likely the old design ones - unless you get a guarantee that they are the new designs (with free return, if they aren't). If the connection to the wire coming out of the top of the lamp element is right at the top of the lamp element, then it's the old design. The new design has about a 1/4" (slightly less) of wire from the element top to the wire feed freom the base of the lamp. You can see this when you look at the top of the lamp.

Here are 2 pictures of my new MT700 lamp - the connection you are looking for is the crimped joint on the wire coming out of the top of the central bulb.

CT,

Thanks for the pictures on the lamp. As far as I can tell both lamps have the crimp similar to pic2.

Any update on how the Epson 1080 compares to the MT700? My MT700 has 1766 hrs on its original bulb and still going. Looking at upgrading but depending on the Epson's PQ compared to MT700 might just get a another bulb and upgrade after the original and replacement goes.
The Epson Home Cinema 1080 is everything I hoped it would be.

-Its lens shift did indeed let me mount it in the same place as the Toshiba; in fact, I had it installed in an hour or two after it arrived (including the trip to the hardware store for different metric bolts).

-Its black-level performance equals the Toshiba's, in my opinion.

-It filled my 92" screen from 9 feet away, just fine (as Jacksonian told me it would, in another TW1000 topic).

-Its picture quality overall is excellent (and 1080p is just so sharp and clear, a big step up from 720p in my close-up viewing position).

-It is also quieter than the MT700.

You have achieved amazing life with your bulb; if you are happy with your projector's picture quality and you cannot see the pixel structure from where you sit, then you will save a lot of money by staying with it through another bulb, and after that the 1080p projectors will certainly be less expensive than now, probably under US$2000.

Bulb went tonight. What's the number to call?? Don't know if they'll do anything, but it doesn't hurt to ask. Anything specific I should tell them besides that the bulb went? Thanks.

Did everyone leave this thread or sold their MT700?

Toshiba bought mine back at full retail after it went through two bulbs and ended up in the shop. They said they couldn't repair it, and didn't have a replacement. Fine with me. I ended up getting a SONY 1080P Pearl. MUCH HAPPIER.

The Toshiba was nice but kept breaking and the SONY is sooooo much nicer.

EOL

I have an extra bulb or two, along with an extra remote if anyone wants to buy 'em.

As with many others, I sent my TDP-MT700 in and got a refund from Toshiba. I replaced it with an Epson Home Cinema 1080 LCD projector, also known as a TW1000. Its short throw ratio and lens shift abilities let it fit right where the MT700 had been, and its picture quality is excellent.

I recieved the refund and picked up an Optoma H79, which required some finesse in room placement, but it worked.

Chris - How are the absolute black levels (not contrast) of the Epson compared to the Tosh? Just curious; I'm glad to hear the TW1000 pq is excellent, but I've always been such a skeptic of LCD-based pjs... :)

Thats I one thing I has issue with too. The SONY required moving the mount back to the edge of the back wall to get the same size screen the Toshiba had. And that was with the zoom fully adjusted where the Toshiba was closer to the screen and still had zoom play.

I always preferred DLP as well but some people noticed rainbows. Everyone was happier with the SONY.

Besides going from 720P to 1080P was a nice plus.

Mine is one and a half year old and still going with the original lamp. I'm at around 450hrs.
Should I expect problems soon?

There were couple times when the lamp started to flicker but if I removed it and cleaned the connectors (both lamp and PJ) and put it back, the flicker went away.

So I'm cleaning the connectors every 2 months, I hope I can reach 1000hrs with it.

not sure if many are reading thru this now still but my bulb went in the MT700 the other week and ive been looking at replacing the bulb.

Im sure i saw it on here that the PE7700 bulb is exactly the same as the MT700 and is also a lot cheaper. Is this correct?

Im in the UK otherwise id buy one of yours lol. But i assume the bulbs will be the same here in the UK and so the PE7700 will fit my MT700?

Anyone can confirm this for me? the MT700 bulb here is about £400 compared to the PE7700 bulb at £210... :mad:

after 2 years on my first bulb, my replacement (which i got a year ago), blew after a couple hours.

what was the conclusion on bulb failure cause, was it bulb, or PJ??

If PJ, i wouldn't want to invest in another bulb, if bulb batch, I too want to know if the (more popular and less expensive) PE7700 bulb will work.

This was a bulb issue.

Ive had my projector about 2 years now ish. My first bulb blew and i got a replacement which started to flicker Tosh sent me a replacement without asking for that one back. the Replacement was a new type bulb and i got about 1300 hours out of it. When that went i put in this old flickering one (old style) had about 400 hours out of that.

so i want to get another bulb (projector out of warranty now) of the new style. But obvioulsy the cheapest bulb for it, so the PE7700 if that will definately fit.

anyone??

anyone??



Yes, the PE7700 bulb will fit.

thanks steve

Ok im streching a bit here but getting nowhere in the UK.

I need a replacement part for my MT700 which is out of warranty.

Behind the Colour Wheel is a Boxed shape Mirror (its in 4 parts glued together to make a tube)

The glue on mine has broke down and so the mirrors have colapsed.

I need to get this part (Light Tube/Light Pipe/Light Box whatever it is called) Ive spent a week trying to get help from Toshiba and the end result is they can supply the part, but only as the whole assembly at £900 GBP :mad: robbing sods.

Do any of you know where i can try to just order this simple part from, or have a Broken Unit that i could buy and take this part from?? (which is a last resort)

There must be a repair center somewhere that has this parts....

Can anyone here help me??

Thanks

Ok im streching a bit here but getting nowhere in the UK.

I need a replacement part for my MT700 which is out of warranty.

Behind the Colour Wheel is a Boxed shape Mirror (its in 4 parts glued together to make a tube)

The glue on mine has broke down and so the mirrors have colapsed.

I need to get this part (Light Tube/Light Pipe/Light Box whatever it is called) Ive spent a week trying to get help from Toshiba and the end result is they can supply the part, but only as the whole assembly at £900 GBP :mad: robbing sods.

Do any of you know where i can try to just order this simple part from, or have a Broken Unit that i could buy and take this part from?? (which is a last resort)

There must be a repair center somewhere that has this parts....

Can anyone here help me??

Thanks


In Europe I don't know. I assume it's similar as in the States. Here they have to provide replacement parts for 7 years. I don't know if it's a legal requirement but I think it is; if the parts aren't available they have to replace with a similar or better quality unit or pay you for it. Since Toshiba didn't replace the model they to have the parts or pay you for it, even if outside warranty. Again this is in the states, your mileage may vary, and you may have a lot of headaches getting there.

If you can find the part to buy I'm sure it's going to be expensive. And this unit was just prone to repeated problems for menu of us.

Last resort would be to contact the OEM of the unit since it wasn't Toshiba. I forget who that was at the moment but is easy to to find in the forums.

Good luck.

Well i have contacted BenQ parts dept, and explained that the PE7700 is the same as the MT700 (and i hope the guts of it are as well) and asked about the Light Pipe.

They told me yup no probs, will be about 2 weeks and £15 GBP for it.

Ive ordered it, i just hope it is the same size as the one in the MT700.

i was doubtful when i ordered the BenQ Bulb but that fit and works perfectly.

fingers crossed huh.

Well i have contacted BenQ parts dept, and explained that the PE7700 is the same as the MT700 (and i hope the guts of it are as well) and asked about the Light Pipe.

They told me yup no probs, will be about 2 weeks and £15 GBP for it.

Ive ordered it, i just hope it is the same size as the one in the MT700.

i was doubtful when i ordered the BenQ Bulb but that fit and works perfectly.

fingers crossed huh.

EXCELLENT, good to hear. Hope it all works out.

does anyone still have new design bulbs for the mt7oo for sale?

Bulbs made for the Benq PE7700 work fine in the essentially-identical TDP-MT700. They should be easily available.

does anyone still have new design bulbs for the mt7oo for sale?

I got a bulb from Toshiba just before they bought back my unit and stopped selling them. The bulb is still sealed.

Let me know how to confirm it's the latest version for you and how much you think it's worth.

The new-design bulb can be identified by looking at the glass rod/cylinder inside the reflector housing. Old bulbs had a wire crimped or welded right at the tip of the rod. The new design had the crimp/weld away from the end of the rod, maybe 1/4 to 1/3 of an inch away. If you go back through this topic, you will find a drawing I made showing the difference.

Yup and if in doubt buy a BenQ PE7700 bulb. Toshiba wanted £485 for a bulb, i bought a BenQ one for £200. Slotted in and up and running perfectly.

received the LightPipe from BenQ today and its exactly the same as the one from my Toshiba, just £892 cheap!!!

ill NEVER buy from toshiba again the robbing sods!

A Big Thumbs up to BenQ with fantastic helpful staff. :)

(Quoted from another discussion.)

Warrantech finally came through for me on a replacement lamp for my Toshiba MT700, but it took 9 months and numerous phone calls. I had to do the looking for them (to find acceptable replacements - Toshiba was of absolutely no help).
Claus, I am glad to hear you finally got a new bulb under your warranty. I hope you get some good life out of it and your MT700. My new-design bulb was past 225 hours on my Toshiba, versus the first two bulbs that died before 100 hours each.

Since many or most of these projectors (in the USA, at least) were taken back by Toshiba, I wonder how many are still in use, and what bulb life people have got from the new-design bulbs with them?

It is bad to hear how hard it was to get the bulb. I remember when I got my first one through my American Express card warranty, I just told them the Benq bulb was the same and they had me buy it (with the Amex card) and they gave me the credit back.

Chris, the problem was that Warrantec claimed that their policy doesn't allow them to substitute parts from a different manufacturer (BenQ). The lamp I got was actually marked as being from Toshiba (after they told Warrantec that it wasn't available "until next week", for 4 weeks in a row). I kept bugging Warrantec and they kept bugging Toshiba until we got an ETA.

PS -- I'll give you a call this weekend, I just have to see your Epson 1080p. My M700 was y first DLP PJ, and probably my last - at least until they provide units that fit my set up and budget.

Dear friends;
I have a Panasonic S97 for almost 3 years now, always connected directly to my Toshiba MT700 through component video. Last week I finally connected it to the projector through HDMI, passing through my Marantz SR 8002 AVR. What happens is the following: when I turn on the projector and send it only the receiver’s HDMI output, it’s fine. But when I turn on my S97 (HDMI - HDMI to the receiver), a message appears on the front panel of the player (U 70 3, I guess) and everything gets scrambled: the sync between the AVR and the projector is lost, a light flashes on the front panel of the receiver, indicating there is something wrong on the connection between the player and the Marantz and I can’t get an image. If I disconnect the player from the receiver and connect the HDMI out of the S97 in the MT 700 everything gets normal again, and I have the image (It takes some time, tough). Then I put all cables back again and I’m fine. I think the problem is on the S97, not the receiver nor the projector, because of that error message on the player. Any thoughts? Any help is appreciated. Thanks a lot!

The problem is that the required handshaking from the S97 to your AVR and then to the MT700 is not making the round trip. You do have to turn on the equipment in the correct order, starting with the S97, then the AVR and finally the MT700.

The key is that you did say that going from the S97 directly to the MT700 "takes some time" to recognize the connection (implies that the S97 signal is barely strong enough for the MT700). Adding the extra connection, adds enough impedance in the path to disrupt the handshaking signal.

Thanks a lot, Claus! I'm upgrading my player to the new Oppo 983. I hope the problem will go away then.

Unfortunately, it didn’t work. I’ve tried all possible combinations turning things on and whenever the player and the receiver are on there is this handshaking problem. Any thoughts? I’ve tried 3 different HDMI cables (good ones, and different lengths) and the problem persists. What should I do???
Thanks!

Hmmmm. It sounds like it's an interface problem between the S97 and your AVR. I seem to vaguely recollect that the S97 HDMI interface was designed to work with the Panasonic digital AVRs and had problems with other brands of AVRs. Your new Oppo should (?) work fine.

I really hope so!
Thanks!

after 2 blown bulbs and a return to toshiba for repairs,this buld made it to appx.750hrs.and boom went boom 2 nights ago.and I was just braggin about how It may have been resolved for good!owell.I hope the refunds are still offered!

my luck with getting toshiba to still honor the on going issue of blowing bulbs is not going well.the endless months of waiting on repair and bulbs that were not available used up our warranty periods its seems.I am not pleased with how they have dealt with this matter.

When Toshiba knows there were issues with this unit,how can they still consider this a bulb and not a projector problem?

this projector still gives me nightmares. It was my first projector too, almost quit right there.

Nothing like the bulbs going out every 2 months then spend hours on the phone with toshiba explaining the same issue every single freaking time.

I never understood how a large company let it go on like this. They should issued an immediate recall and refunded the money when the problem became apparant. Instead they pretend it wasnt a problem and all hush hush. I eventually got my money back when the 4th bulb blew under half a year, I lost it and started screaming on the phone at the manager and threaten to take it to small claim court.

The sad thing is i always thought toshiba as a very good brand. What a nightmare, never bought another toshiba product after that..just on principle.

Hi,

I just had a fan problem with my Toshiba MT700 2 weeks ago. I was able to replace the fans but I only could find 1.6W models instead of the original 1.8W. The projector works fine, but I would like to ask you guys a favor by checking the ballast temperature with altitude on normal.

Could you please go into the service menu and check what numbers do you read?
I get +3600 with altitude set high and +5000 when altitude is on normal.

I just want to make sure that the lamp is not getting more heat with the 1.6W fans.

Many thanks!!!!
Gabor

There is no doubt you MT700 owners have had a rough go of it with the bulb issues.

As most of us know the Benq 7700 is the twin of the MT700. Benq has clearly fixed the bulb issue for some time now. Has anyone ever contacted Benq to see if they would have a look at their Toshiba? I'll have to talk to my contact at Benq and see if there is a possibility due to the PJ's basically being the same.

I'll probably just get told no, but it wouldn't hurt to try.

FYI for anyone looking for a bulb assembly. There's a new one for sale on eBay right now. It's the whole assembly. Apparently most people sell the bulbs and not the whole assembly.

Just an FYI.