Hi everyone,
I believe I may have already asked this question, but I did not get a response (or I didn't notice one)...I'm interested in getting a blu ray or hd-dvd player and the big sticking point for me is upscaling of standard dvds. I currently have an older sony dvd player thats progressive scan, and I allow the tv to do the upscaling (progressive scan off on the dvd player). Is the tv's upscaling equivalent to what I would see from a hd-dvd player or blu ray player upscaling my dvds. If that's the case, it allows me to narrow my decisions down to the xbox 360 add on and ps3, since both don't upscale, but are more affordable. Thanks.

Thankyou all for the great information...I have recently purchased a KDF-55WF655 in absolutely great shape....I wanted to see if any members out there have this set and what they have set the picture values to....I have read mixed reviews on the Avia dvd ...any hep would be much apreciated..thankyou all

I owned the 60XS955 and recently sold it to my sister since we didn't have room in our move to Mexico. Now I'm missing it so I'm looking at getting a 60XBR2 and were curious as to what the pros and cons are of the new tv since a few years have passed since the XS955 came out. FWIW, I absolutely loved my XS955 and everyone that came over were blown away by picture quality. I know I'm in the minority but I also love the side speakers.

I bought my 60XS955 in December 2004 and absolutely love this TV. I bought a replacement bulb a year ago to have on hand just in case it went out around the Super Bowl or another big event. The display started looking a little dim the last few weeks so I swapped out the bulb tonight and WOW! It's like having a new TV again - everything is bright and crisp. If you've had the TV since the beginning like me and are still on the original bulb I highly recommend changing it.

I bought my 60XS955 in December 2004 and absolutely love this TV. I bought a replacement bulb a year ago to have on hand just in case it went out around the Super Bowl or another big event. The display started looking a little dim the last few weeks so I swapped out the bulb tonight and WOW! It's like having a new TV again - everything is bright and crisp. If you've had the TV since the beginning like me and are still on the original bulb I highly recommend changing it.

Couldn't agree more. I had mine replaced under EW about 6 months ago and it was literally like night and day. It's funny, it dims so slowly that you don't realize it until it's critical. Then WOW!

Harmony remotes are programmed using their web site. You input the model numbers of all your equipment and macros (Activities) are set up using a wizard. The program will ask you what input the TV should be tuned to and will send a signal that will switch the TV directly to that input.

Will any Harmony remote be capable of doing this direct input entry with the XS955? (Even a lower-end model such as the 550?)

Will any Harmony remote be capable of doing this direct input entry with the XS955? (Even a lower-end model such as the 550?)

I don't know about the 550, but the Harmony 880 can jump directly between inputs, with the exception input 8... which is solved by going to input 7 and up one automatically.

I don't know about the 550, but the Harmony 880 can jump directly between inputs, with the exception input 8... which is solved by going the input 7 and up one automatically.

Thanks for the info. I've read up a bit since my last post and it looks like the 550 is able to do this as well, and I did hear about the input 8 issue. The 880 is clearly a more robust remote, but I prefer the squared-off design of the 550. And now that it's going for only 80 bucks on Amazon, it may be too tempting for me to pass up. I now really regret buying the $20 Sony RM-VL 600 -- Sure it was cheap and works fine for what it is, but not being able to directly switch to an input is a very big shortcoming.

Can anyone point me to some good settings for the TV. I been playing around with it but I'm having a hard time getting set right. If there is anyone that has it calibrated well and get give me some settings it would be much appreciated.

I have a KDF55XS955 and I just had the Optical Block change because of the Road map or fog problem. All is well but the picture is tilted a bit it's like a little lower on one side. I don't want to have to make another apt. for the tech to come out so I'm wondering is there a easy way to fix this in the service menue? Thank's for any help anyone can give.

Wow, I just replaced the bulb in my 2 year old 60XS955 and what a difference! The reduction in brightness was so gradual I didn't realize how much it had dimmed over the past couple years.

I decided to call Circuit City and have the bulb replaced under warranty after hooking up a new XBR LCD for the bedroom. It was so much brighter than the LCD projection I thought I'd try replacing the bulb. It was pretty easy to get CC to send me a new bulb, and it was a snap to install. Amazing. :)

i own a 60 inch set, for two years, i am thinking of upgrading to 1080p, should i go for new sxrd 2020, 60xbr2 or wait till xbr3 comes out

i own a 60 inch set, for two years, i am thinking of upgrading to 1080p, should i go for new sxrd 2020, 60xbr2 or wait till xbr3 comes out

How close do you sit to the screen? 1080p improves pixel density if you are close to the set, but at a comfortable distance like 10 feet or so I don't know if you are really going to really notice that much of a difference.

I would hold off as long as you can.

How close do you sit to the screen? 1080p improves pixel density if you are close to the set, but at a comfortable distance like 10 feet or so I don't know if you are really going to really notice that much of a difference.

I would hold off as long as you can.

12-13 feet would like to get 70 inch preferably! I am trying to play hold, as much as I can :D

Hi folks, i have a 2 yr old baby that has been great so far. Recently, its been acting a tad strange - once we turn it on, it lights up and stays on for about 2-3 mins and then the screen goes off - the power light (below the screen) starts flashing for about 10 seconds (like its going into standby) and then the screen lights up again with a picture...the cycle recurs...i have a DirecTV HD box connected and which is working fine...

i am not sure what the issue is and wondered if this problem was a common one in this forum. i run a monster power center+conditioner off the mains and tried plugging the pwr conditioner to a different wall socket and then tried plugging the TV in directly to the wall sockets - result was the same.

This TV is our flagship CE piece and very central to our entertainment quotient! so desperate for some guidance.

Thanks in advance.

Echo...

Sorry to hear this is happening. I would say a service call is in order, but it could be something as simple as a lamp replacement.

Good luck! Let us know how it works out for you.

Where can I get lamp cheapest? best buy told me it was simple to replace in the back

Best bet would be to do a google search for the best price. Best buy is correct in saying that it is fairly simple to replace, but they are incoorect in that it is in the front not in the back.

Good Luck
Carmine.

Where can I get lamp cheapest? best buy told me it was simple to replace in the back

If you are comfortable with ebay, that's where I got mine and it worked out well. It was around $160 I think?

My install took about 10 minutes and I did it very slowly and carefully. The instructions are in the manual.

If you do it, don't forget to reset the lamp hours via instructions are in this thread or the Grand Wega IV thread.

Good luck!

For those people looking for direct access to the inputs via remote...I just purchased a $20 Sony Universal Remote at Best Buy. There are newer codes for Sony TVs that preprogram the VCR buttons as direct inputs. So pressing the Stop key is the same as Input 2, Play is Input 5 (I'm not sure of the sequence here, but they work). The newer remote also has keys like the decimal point entry and twin view.

Hi folks, i have a 2 yr old baby that has been great so far. Recently, its been acting a tad strange - once we turn it on, it lights up and stays on for about 2-3 mins and then the screen goes off - the power light (below the screen) starts flashing for about 10 seconds (like its going into standby) and then the screen lights up again with a picture...the cycle recurs...i have a DirecTV HD box connected and which is working fine...

i am not sure what the issue is and wondered if this problem was a common one in this forum. i run a monster power center+conditioner off the mains and tried plugging the pwr conditioner to a different wall socket and then tried plugging the TV in directly to the wall sockets - result was the same.

This TV is our flagship CE piece and very central to our entertainment quotient! so desperate for some guidance.

Thanks in advance.
Hey EChO, I'm having the same exact problem... Did you find the solution to yours? Sure would like to hear if you got it working again and what needed to be done.

Thanks!

Echo/MadMerlin... sounds like you need a replacement lamp.

What is the best way to calibrate my TV? Are there any helpful pointers anyone can give me. I am trying to get the blacks just right. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!!!

Has anyone had their XS955 turn on and give a total snow storm with some measure of a picture in the background? Mine did that today. I checked all my active inputs and tuner and it was all the same. I turned it off and one after waiting and it was the same. I called to schedule a service and turned it off. I tried again a bit later and it's normal again! :eek: I'll cancel the appt. if it still works when they call to confirm. I've got a few days. This was the first time it did anything like this.

Has anyone had their XS955 turn on and give a total snow storm with some measure of a picture in the background? Mine did that today. I checked all my active inputs and tuner and it was all the same. I turned it off and one after waiting and it was the same. I called to schedule a service and turned it off. I tried again a bit later and it's normal again! :eek: I'll cancel the appt. if it still works when they call to confirm. I've got a few days. This was the first time it did anything like this.

Yes - I had that a couple of times a year or two ago. I turned it off, unplugged for a few minutes, then started it back up and it was fine. Hasn't happened since.

Can anyone please explain to me what the "roadmap" defect looks like on this set? I think mine has it, but I am not sure (erratic blue lines and splotching). Sony says the optical block will be covered if it is the roadmap.

Dennis

Yes - I had that a couple of times a year or two ago. I turned it off, unplugged for a few minutes, then started it back up and it was fine. Hasn't happened since.


Mine was off for a few days (trip) and self corrected. We'll see for how long...

Has anyone considered upgrading their XS955. I have a 55inch and these 1080p tvs are really coming down in price and the blacks levels have always been so so on this tv. I have both HD-DVD and Blu-ray but I'm worried despite the better resolution I might get something that doesn't measure up to the picture quality of this tv and excellent SD tv quality it has even when zoomed. Plus looking for atleast 5 inches larger.

I'm curious what a good asking price for this tv would be, espeically with atleast 2 years of an extended warranty still on it.

I don't want this to turn into a thread about which other tvs are better, but I didn't want to create a whole new thread about one older tv. And I hope many hear might still be looking at this thread and upgraded or got an extra new tv and can directly compare with experience.

I am, for 60xs955! I liked last years 70 inch XBR2, but held my self back, for HDMi 1.3 and better faster displays and design.

I saw their current new SXRD 60 inch 2020, TV, heck an ugly duckling pq was not that good either.

Has anyone considered upgrading their XS955.

I have a 60" and am guilty of always wanting to upgrade... but I'll have to say I'm pretty much happy and content with the 788p picture of the XS955 current set.

The black levels might not be as inky as I would like, but I really only notice the brighter blacks only in scenes that are mostly black. If there's a bright scene where someone is wearing a tux... on my set that tux is deep black.

And video games look great, which is the most important thing to me! :cool:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/125/356401082_1460a64309_o.jpg

Sorry to correct you Daver, but that is 768p.

Carmine.

Sorry to correct you Daver, but that is 768p.

Carmine.

Your source?

This (http://www.buy.com/prod/sony-kdf-60xs955-60-grand-wega-3lcd-projection-hdtv/q/loc/111/202973400.html) probably isn't the most reliable source, but I don't see any reason to doubt it:

"Native Resolution: Since the KDF-60XS955 has a native display resolution of 1386 x 788, all input signals will be displayed at 1386 x 788. The TV has three 0.87" Wide XGA LCD panels, one for each RGB (red, green, blue) signal that each resolve 1.09 million pixels to deliver a clear, crisp, precise picture."

There's no resolution stated on Sony's site, but they put the pixel count at 1,092,168 Million Dots per Panel, which matches the above.

DaverJ, isn't it fun when the TV pops up its info screen, which can easily cover critical areas, and you mess up a game! :mad: :mad: :mad:
It's happening more frequently now for me. :(
Arghhhhh!

DaverJ, isn't it fun when the TV pops up its info screen, which can easily cover critical areas, and you mess up a game! :mad: :mad: :mad:
It's happening more frequently now for me. :(
Arghhhhh!

Yea, I wish I could figure out a pattern (input, time, activity). Sometimes I will go months without seeing it, and other times I'll see it twice in a week. :confused:

It seems to pop up more on certain inputs for me. I rarely see it watching Tivo or Xbox 360, but it seems more common playing Wii or PS3. And by "rarely" I mean it does happen.

Yea, I wish I could figure out a pattern (input, time, activity). Sometimes I will go months without seeing it, and other times I'll see it twice in a week. :confused:

It seems to pop up more on certain inputs for me. I rarely see it watching Tivo or Xbox 360, but it seems more common playing Wii or PS3. And by "rarely" I mean it does happen.


My last episode was twice in one hour and 3 times in the day! :(

I get it on all my main inputs. HDMI and component. I don't use the Replay (S) that much any more and the VCR (Yellow) hardly at all.

I have a 60" and am guilty of always wanting to upgrade... but I'll have to say I'm pretty much happy and content with the 788p picture of the XS955 current set.

The black levels might not be as inky as I would like, but I really only notice the brighter blacks only in scenes that are mostly black. If there's a bright scene where someone is wearing a tux... on my set that tux is deep black.

And video games look great, which is the most important thing to me! :cool:

[IM]http://farm1.static.flickr.com/125/356401082_1460a64309_o.jpg[/IMG]

I ended up getting a new tv anyway. The new Toshiba 65inch 1080p DLP 65hm167. Even though the screen is 10inches larger, the whole body is actually slightly less wide and slightly shorter than the Sony.

The 55xs955 is staying in the family. I'm roughly selling it to my dad for $1000, which still has slightly over 2 years left of on it's warranty. And he can pay by over time by helping with payments to the credit card I used for 24 month no interest on the new tv. It's weird, I'm 26 and I've been giving my parents hand me downs most the time :)

This purchase also landed me a Toshiba HD-DVD HD-A2 for $200 + 10% off for him to use with the Sony. I'm sure it's going to make a huge difference for him over the Toshiba 32inch 4:3 HDTV that he has and never used for HD. He also needed a new DVD player anyway as his was beginning to malfunction. So at this price, even if HD-DVD fails, he still has a decent upscaler for this 55incher.

I have a 60 inch, and planing to use ps3/ toshiba XA2 via HDMI.

PS3 for BR only, HD XA2 for SD DVDS and HD DVDS

May i ask, your kind experience / what resolution and setting pref if any?

thnx

In the spirit of sharing knowledge and since I could not find anything documented on this thread....however this seems to be a prevalent problem with the A20's.

I have a KDF55XS955 for about a year and a half and recently got the 6 red lights blinking when I powered on (to be precise it was 5 green then 6 red repeating). The tv fan did not even start, black screen. The service repairman was just here and fixed the thermal fuse. He said that it should never happen again since he did not have to take the old fuse out (I really didn't understand what he did but I went with it lol). Sooo $200 later, I can relax and watch the hockey game tonight. btw, this tv is still incredible and puts a smile on my face when I turn it on, even for a little mishap and inconvienience. Hope this helps someone out with this problem.

Chris

I have the 60XS955 and Comcast just offered me an HD STB for free for one year. I currently use a Cablecard. Before I rip all the wires out, I was wondering...will the PQ on HD or SD be better or worse with the STB? Anyone try a Cablecard vs STB comparison? I've heard the Cablecard was slightly better, but I wanted to hear your opinion.

I have the 60XS955 and Comcast just offered me an HD STB for free for one year. I currently use a Cablecard. Before I rip all the wires out, I was wondering...will the PQ on HD or SD be better or worse with the STB? Anyone try a Cablecard vs STB comparison? I've heard the Cablecard was slightly better, but I wanted to hear your opinion.

I use both a CC and box via HDMI. I notice no difference. The CC for the $4 gives me the freedom to just watch TV without the whole home theater booting.

On another note.
I've just noticed a small "blue cancer" appearing in the lower left corner of the screen. It's especially noticeable when the 360 boots up and the screen is light green. It appears everywhere though. :(

Any thoughts?
60XS955

On another note.
I've just noticed a small "blue cancer" appearing in the lower left corner of the screen. It's especially noticeable when the 360 boots up and the screen is light green. It appears everywhere though. :(

Any thoughts?
60XS955

Joe,

That's very bad news. It's a common point of failure with these TVs and is caused by the optical block/engine failing. If you're still within your warranty period contact Sony ASAP. If you have to repair on your own it's about $1k.

Here's a good thread on the issue on another site: http://www.agoraquest.com/viewtopic.php?topic=26237&forum=34&start=0&select_page_number=1

I'm currently battling Sony to try to get them to fix my set which is out of warranty. Under normal circumstances I understand them not covering something out of warranty, but in this case there are widespread known issues with these TVs.

Chris

Joe,

That's very bad news. It's a common point of failure with these TVs and is caused by the optical block/engine failing. If you're still within your warranty period contact Sony ASAP. If you have to repair on your own it's about $1k.

Here's a good thread on the issue on another site: http://www.agoraquest.com/viewtopic.php?topic=26237&forum=34&start=0&select_page_number=1

I'm currently battling Sony to try to get them to fix my set which is out of warranty. Under normal circumstances I understand them not covering something out of warranty, but in this case there are widespread known issues with these TVs.

Chris

Thanks for the heads up, Chris. I'm under BestBuy's EW. I am applying for Lemon because of the number of issues I've had. I don't think I'll get it because all weren't fixed so not enough exchanged parts. :( This will certainly be a part. So my hope for lemoning the set gets stronger. It sill does the annoying pop up info screen and recently produced nothing but a snow storm screen. Sheeeesh. :mad:

It was the light engine.
Best Buy declared the Sony a lemon. I get to go shopping with $3200 (+tax)

I think I'm not getting another Sony. I'm looking at the 61" Sammy DLP LED and the 65" Mitsubishi DLP.

Any ideas? I have to process this in 48 hours. :eek:

It was the light engine.
Best Buy declared the Sony a lemon. I get to go shopping with $3200 (+tax)

Good luck with your choice Joe! I'm sorry the Sony didn't work out for you -- I'm going to miss your epic tales of woe. :o

Good luck with your choice Joe! I'm sorry the Sony didn't work out for you -- I'm going to miss your epic tales of woe. :o

Don't ya worry, with my luck (I have a 360 too [3rd one]) you'll see new stories! ;)

Gl joe. Let us know whatever you pick how it compares. I'm sure whatever you choose the black levels will be much better.


You could probably get the pio60 plasma for 4500 or less with some negotiation. Thats what i would choose most likely.

Second choice would probably be the sxrd.

It was the light engine.
Best Buy declared the Sony a lemon. I get to go shopping with $3200 (+tax).....

Sorry it didn't work out. You suffered enough, and sincere thanks for all the info you've posted during the experience. Yes, let us know what you get, how it compares, etc...

Gl joe. Let us know whatever you pick how it compares. I'm sure whatever you choose the black levels will be much better.


You could probably get the pio60 plasma for 4500 or less with some negotiation. Thats what i would choose most likely.

Second choice would probably be the sxrd.

Plasma is out for me. Bright living room too many reflections. I previously had a Sony 53XBR200 (I think?? one before HD) It had the shinny screen protector. Aiyeeee the glare! Plasma would be just like that. Plus, X-360, burn in! Yeah I know, plasmas DON'T burn in. :rolleyes:
I'm looking at the Sammy HLT6187S. Would like the 89 but BB don't carry. :(

Sorry it didn't work out. You suffered enough, and sincere thanks for all the info you've posted during the experience. Yes, let us know what you get, how it compares, etc...


Will do and thanks. See above for my #1 right now.

BTW #2 is Mits 65732, but I don't think the 360 will do 1080p with its DVI connection??? :confused:

Hey man,
I have the xa2 via hdmi set to 1080i. I've toggled between 1080i and 720p and I really can't tell a difference probably for reasons that Daver clearly states in his posts. The xa2 matches the set well and all dvds look killer.

Hey man,
I have the xa2 via hdmi set to 1080i. I've toggled between 1080i and 720p and I really can't tell a difference probably for reasons that Daver clearly states in his posts. The xa2 matches the set well and all dvds look killer.

would you please share your settings on xa2 and set

Joe,

That's very bad news. It's a common point of failure with these TVs and is caused by the optical block/engine failing. If you're still within your warranty period contact Sony ASAP. If you have to repair on your own it's about $1k.

Here's a good thread on the issue on another site: http://www.agoraquest.com/viewtopic.php?topic=26237&forum=34&start=0&select_page_number=1

I'm currently battling Sony to try to get them to fix my set which is out of warranty. Under normal circumstances I understand them not covering something out of warranty, but in this case there are widespread known issues with these TVs.

Chris

I wanted to get my screen shot in this thread too. I posted it in the GWIV thread, it belonged here.
Linky (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10487935&&#post10487935)

I have noticed recently when there is a black screen there is a spot on my TV that has a greenish tint. It's like a circle near the top left of the TV screen. Anyone know what it could be?

I was watching The Players golf tournament today in HD on NBC, and if it wasn't for my Sony TV, I'd have never known it was being played in Kentucky. (The Blue Grass State for those that don't know!) ;) See the attached pic.

I have noticed recently when there is a black screen there is a spot on my TV that has a greenish tint. It's like a circle near the top left of the TV screen. Anyone know what it could be?

Light Engine?? You have an extended warranty, right? :eek:

Light Engine?? You have an extended warranty, right? :eek:
Is that what it is? Yes I do have an extended warranty thank goodness. They told me they were ordering a part but a technician wasn't there so they could not specify the part. They should be here the next few days. As long as it gets fixed I don't care I just wanted to know what kind of problem it was. Light Engine would be bad though.

Is that what it is? Yes I do have an extended warranty thank goodness. They told me they were ordering a part but a technician wasn't there so they could not specify the part. They should be here the next few days. As long as it gets fixed I don't care I just wanted to know what kind of problem it was. Light Engine would be bad though.

Educated guess, I'm not a TV technician. :confused:

Educated guess, I'm not a TV technician. :confused:
Haha. Thanks for your input though.

i noticed my KDF-55WF655 getting dim lately so i ordered a new blub, 2 days ago the tv died, and makes a horrible noise when i try to turn it on, this is not what the manual mentions happens when the bulb dies, has this happened to anyone else?

my tv just flashes green and makes a bad sound, could it be the bulb in a weird state? my new bulb comes tomorrow

my tv just flashes green and makes a bad sound, could it be the bulb in a weird state? my new bulb comes tomorrow

Really hard to say... good luck with the lamp replacement! :o

Please post back tomorrow with a status report!

My friend had the same TV and just ordered a replacement bulb for it. He just got it the other day and did not install instead he got a new TV and offered me the bulb. My TV currently does not need a replacement so if I keep it uninstalled can anything happen to it where it would not work. Does it need to be installed right away or can I just keep it until i need it? I am assuming this is a stupid question and you don't have to but confirmation would be nice. My other question is the place he got it from said he has 30 days to report any defects with the bulb. So would I be able to take mine out, pop this one in to make sure it's cool, and then put my other one back? Or could that screw something up? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

I bought my 60xs955 in September of '05, with the Best Buy 4 year service plan. Recently, I noticed the image getting dimmer. It was subtle, but I noticed it. Called the local service location, and they just ordered me a lamp and brought it over.

After the install, the picture is so much brighter it's like I have a new TV.

I advise all of you that if you are really losing detail in the shadows and other dark areas on the screen, try a new bulb.

Just installed a new bulb and wow what a difference. My question is, does the internal clock that indicates how many hours the bulb has been use automatically reset or do I have to reset it?

Hey Dom. No the lamp counter will not automatically reset. It must be reset manually within the service menu. Unfortunately, i do not have the instructions in front of me on to manually reset the lamp counter. It is definately documented on these forums.

Enjoy!
Carmine.

Just installed a new bulb and wow what a difference. My question is, does the internal clock that indicates how many hours the bulb has been use automatically reset or do I have to reset it?

i do plan to upgrade this fall, how involved is bulb changing ritual

i do plan to upgrade this fall, how involved is bulb changing ritual

It seems intimidating, but it's really not bad.

The access panel is the large section of silver (grey?) in the front bottom, above the black stand under the screen. You might want to pop it off early and take a look behind there when the TV is off. You will see a small door with a sliding lock secured with a thumb screw.

When it's time to replace the lamp, the process is 1) loosen the thumb screw, slide the lock and remove the door, 2) take a hex screw (which should be provide with the lamp) and unscrew the lamp casing and remove the lamp, 3) put the new lamp in and tighten the hex screw, then 4) put the access door back on, slide the lock and tighten the thumb screw.

It sounds intimidating, and it was when I did it. But it's very user accessible and took me just a couple nervous minutes.

And you'll be really impressed with the TV all over again when you are done! :cool:

Hey Dom. No the lamp counter will not automatically reset. It must be reset manually within the service menu. Unfortunately, i do not have the instructions in front of me on to manually reset the lamp counter. It is definately documented on these forums.

Enjoy!
Carmine.
Thanks!

It seems intimidating, but it's really not bad.

The access panel is the large section of silver (grey?) in the front bottom, above the black stand under the screen. You might want to pop it off early and take a look behind there when the TV is off. You will see a small door with a sliding lock secured with a thumb screw.

When it's time to replace the lamp, the process is 1) loosen the thumb screw, slide the lock and remove the door, 2) take a hex screw (which should be provide with the lamp) and unscrew the lamp casing and remove the lamp, 3) put the new lamp in and tighten the hex screw, then 4) put the access door back on, slide the lock and tighten the thumb screw.

It sounds intimidating, and it was when I did it. But it's very user accessible and took me just a couple nervous minutes.

And you'll be really impressed with the TV all over again when you are done! :cool:

thnx a lot! But that pannel kinda looks smaller for size of bulb I have seen in the pictures. Where can I get good price on bulb?

thnx a lot! But that pannel kinda looks smaller for size of bulb I have seen in the pictures. Where can I get good price on bulb?


You are looking at the wrong panel... it's a large piece of grey plastic... almost the width of the screen.

Well I just found out the light engine has to be replaced on my TV. Anyone have this done before? Is this bad for my TV in the long run? I have a warranty so I do not have to pay anything but was just wondering why an issue like this would happen.

Hi folks, i have a 2 yr old baby that has been great so far. Recently, its been acting a tad strange - once we turn it on, it lights up and stays on for about 2-3 mins and then the screen goes off - the power light (below the screen) starts flashing for about 10 seconds (like its going into standby) and then the screen lights up again with a picture...the cycle recurs...i have a DirecTV HD box connected and which is working fine...

i am not sure what the issue is and wondered if this problem was a common one in this forum. i run a monster power center+conditioner off the mains and tried plugging the pwr conditioner to a different wall socket and then tried plugging the TV in directly to the wall sockets - result was the same.

This TV is our flagship CE piece and very central to our entertainment quotient! so desperate for some guidance.

Thanks in advance.

Just had same problem with my 55xs955. Error codes said it was lamp driver but web research showed it might just be bulb. Changed bulb and everythings fine. Bulb had 8500 hrs on it. hadn't really noticed any dimming at the time but i think the new one is brighter.

Well I just found out the light engine has to be replaced on my TV. Anyone have this done before? Is this bad for my TV in the long run? I have a warranty so I do not have to pay anything but was just wondering why an issue like this would happen.I had a stuck red pixel and had my light engine replaced last year. Took the tech less than an hour and was problem free. The bonus is that before hand my image was slightly rotated about 1-2 %, now it is dead straight :). Just don't let the tech leave until he tests it and you verify the picture is straight and centered.

I had a stuck red pixel and had my light engine replaced last year. Took the tech less than an hour and was problem free. The bonus is that before hand my image was slightly rotated about 1-2 %, now it is dead straight :). Just don't let the tech leave until he tests it and you verify the picture is straight and centered.
Thanks for the info.

Posting my experience to add to the shared data pool here..

My KDF-60XS955 started having a problem about 3 months ago where suddenly I'd get image retention (blue ghosting of previous images) after even a very short amount of time.. The problem grew in severity to the point where I now see bright blue images anytime a white-section of screen is displayed (and faded dark blue images on a black-section). Over time they go away, but it has made the TV almost unwatchable.

When I initially called Sony, they thought it was the optic(s) block?.. But I had to go through my Sears extended warranty, so Sears sent out a guy. I'm not up on my terms, so I'm not sure if it's the same thing, but he determined (quickly) that he thought it was an "optics engine" problem, and ordered a replacement (when it arrives in 3-7 days, I have to schedule another appointment).

I wonder if all of these TVs will have problems at the same time, or if it's just a small percentage of these that are faulty.

Posting my experience to add to the shared data pool here..

My KDF-60XS955 started having a problem about 3 months ago where suddenly I'd get image retention (blue ghosting of previous images) after even a very short amount of time.. The problem grew in severity to the point where I now see bright blue images anytime a white-section of screen is displayed (and faded dark blue images on a black-section). Over time they go away, but it has made the TV almost unwatchable.

When I initially called Sony, they thought it was the optic(s) block?.. But I had to go through my Sears extended warranty, so Sears sent out a guy. I'm not up on my terms, so I'm not sure if it's the same thing, but he determined (quickly) that he thought it was an "optics engine" problem, and ordered a replacement (when it arrives in 3-7 days, I have to schedule another appointment).

I wonder if all of these TVs will have problems at the same time, or if it's just a small percentage of these that are faulty.


It's probably a large percentage of people here and small overall ;)

Good luck and since the image ghosting is blue I wonder if it's related to the "blue cloud"? Then it's the light engine.

Good luck and since the image ghosting is blue I wonder if it's related to the "blue cloud"? Then it's the light engine.

I had the Blue Cloud problem and it soon developed the image ghosting. Replacing the light engine fixed both problems.

In the spirit of sharing knowledge and since I could not find anything documented on this thread....however this seems to be a prevalent problem with the A20's.

I have a KDF55XS955 for about a year and a half and recently got the 6 red lights blinking when I powered on (to be precise it was 5 green then 6 red repeating). The tv fan did not even start, black screen. The service repairman was just here and fixed the thermal fuse. He said that it should never happen again since he did not have to take the old fuse out (I really didn't understand what he did but I went with it lol). Sooo $200 later, I can relax and watch the hockey game tonight. btw, this tv is still incredible and puts a smile on my face when I turn it on, even for a little mishap and inconvienience. Hope this helps someone out with this problem.

Chris

Same problem and diagnosis on my KDF60XS955- although I had an alternating pattern of 3 flashing green and six flashing red.

John

kdf 55wf655 has worked fine for 2 years, straight DVI out of cable box into TV- now I've added a XA2, and a Trek switchbox.

Once I did that, I found getting the TV to find and lock on the signal was getting more and more difficult, and now, even running the cable or dvd straight into the set causes the following behavior:

1: Fire up tv and cable, or dvd
2: TV will find signal, display for a moment, then go to black.
3: If you turn off the dvd or cable, screen flutters, displays random colors and noise, then black.

Unless:

You have TV on, turn on DVD player second, and when the XA2 starts sending the "HD DVD" splash screen, the TV displays that fine. Then, once it switches from that screen to the dvd content (intros, menu, whatever), TV goes black again.

Thoughts?

kdf 55wf655 has worked fine for 2 years, straight DVI out of cable box into TV- now I've added a XA2, and a Trek switchbox.

Once I did that, I found getting the TV to find and lock on the signal was getting more and more difficult, and now, even running the cable or dvd straight into the set causes the following behavior:

1: Fire up tv and cable, or dvd
2: TV will find signal, display for a moment, then go to black.
3: If you turn off the dvd or cable, screen flutters, displays random colors and noise, then black.

Unless:

You have TV on, turn on DVD player second, and when the XA2 starts sending the "HD DVD" splash screen, the TV displays that fine. Then, once it switches from that screen to the dvd content (intros, menu, whatever), TV goes black again.

Thoughts?

1st thought it to make sure the HD-DVD player is set to display 720p or 1080i, not 1080p.

2nd though is something with that switchbox.

1st thought it to make sure the HD-DVD player is set to display 720p or 1080i, not 1080p.

2nd though is something with that switchbox.

Oh, it all worked at one time, but now, even without the switchbox, it doesn't display.

I posted a couple times about setting. Is there anyone they can post there calibrated settings for this TV for me. It would be much appreciated!! Thanks in advance if anyone can help.

It's probably a large percentage of people here and small overall ;)

Good luck and since the image ghosting is blue I wonder if it's related to the "blue cloud"? Then it's the light engine.
Sony finally woke up. Get it repaired for free or send in the receipts and get your money back. Check the Sony support/ news page. A extended warranty has been issued.

link please

link please

Check here. (http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/support-info.pl?template_id=1&info_id=316&mdl=KDF55WF655)

link please
I cannot post a link. I am new member and I must have 5 posts before I can put in a link. This is #2.

3 to go

Check here.
That is the claim form. If you look around a bit they have pictures of the road mapping problem and a new extended warranty covering the blue dot and stars that they started to cover last week.

This is 3 posts, link coming soon.

I had the blue spot problem show up last year. Sony refused to cover the problem, saying it was not road mapping. I wrote to the executive reveiw committe. They offered to cover part of the cost of the opticle block, but I must pay labor. I said no. I will by a new tv, not Sony. I just started a new trouble report 2 weeks ago when I saw the new exrended warranty and I have been approved and parts are on order and will be repaired at no cost to me.

4 posts, link coming soon

FYI, the blue spot problem eventually will get bad enough that it looks like the road mapping.I t did for me anyway. It is about time they step up and fix it. I am dissapointed they make me look at that blue stain for 6 months before they agree to fix it.

5 posts, links are next

I will try the links now.

1. Blue dot (new)http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?mdl=KDF60WF655&news_id=206

2. Road mapping (old)http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?mdl=KDF60WF655&news_id=127

I posted a couple times about setting. Is there anyone they can post there calibrated settings for this TV for me. It would be much appreciated!! Thanks in advance if anyone can help.
anyone??

Check here. (http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/support-info.pl?template_id=1&info_id=316&mdl=KDF55WF655)

I own a 60 inch 2 yrs old, do I get my money back, so I can buy xbr5

I own a 60 inch 2 yrs old, do I get my money back, so I can buy xbr5
Sorry, let me clarify. You get the cost of the repair back if you spent money out of pocket to repair the problem.

FYI..a technician replaced my thermal fuse today - all is well.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Trayns
In the spirit of sharing knowledge and since I could not find anything documented on this thread....however this seems to be a prevalent problem with the A20's.

I have a KDF55XS955 for about a year and a half and recently got the 6 red lights blinking when I powered on (to be precise it was 5 green then 6 red repeating). The tv fan did not even start, black screen. The service repairman was just here and fixed the thermal fuse. He said that it should never happen again since he did not have to take the old fuse out (I really didn't understand what he did but I went with it lol). Sooo $200 later, I can relax and watch the hockey game tonight. btw, this tv is still incredible and puts a smile on my face when I turn it on, even for a little mishap and inconvienience. Hope this helps someone out with this problem.

Chris

Same problem and diagnosis on my KDF60XS955- although I had an alternating pattern of 3 flashing green and six flashing red.

John

Same problem and diagnosis on my KDF60XS955- although I had an alternating pattern of 3 flashing green and six flashing red.

John

Sorry, let me clarify. You get the cost of the repair back if you spent money out of pocket to repair the problem.
The tech just left. My kdf60wf655 looks like the day I bought it. No charge, they replaced the optical block. The replacement OB was new and not a refurb as per the tech.

Finally they came thru.

I don't really know how to explain the issue I am having but I will try my best. I have a Direct TV HD DVR H20. While I watch stuff in HD even on regular channels it sort of looks like there is random "fuzz" or some sort of noise around certain things. For example a persons face if they turn quickly you will see some noise on there cheeks especially males with a little facial hair. If I am watching a Mets game when a ball is hit in the outfield it just does not look as clear when you have a still shot. I don't know if this is a settings issue or something is wrong with the TV. I just got a new light engine so it can't be that. Again it is hard to explain the issue. I guess when there is a lot of movement it seems like there is a significant amount of noise. I never really noticed this before so I think something could be wrong. I had the Directv receivers replaced twice already so it is not that either. If anyone can help me out that would be great.

I don't really know how to explain the issue I am having but I will try my best. I have a Direct TV HD DVR H20. While I watch stuff in HD even on regular channels it sort of looks like there is random "fuzz" or some sort of noise around certain things.

Dom... maybe what you are seeing is compression artifacts? (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compression_artifacts)

Dom... maybe what you are seeing is compression artifacts? (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compression_artifacts)
No it doesn't look like that. It mostly looks like the "screen door" affect but even if you move further back it still happens. Like during a baseball game if a ball is hit into the outfield when the camera is moving it looks like fuzz i guess? Like I said it is hard to explain. But I am not getting a clear picture like I should when things are moving. You really notice it during brighter colors like white, green, blue, etc. It's rahter annoying. I am just trying to find out a way maybe to describe the problem to a tech or what part may be acting up.

No it doesn't look like that. It mostly looks like the "screen door" affect but even if you move further back it still happens. Like during a baseball game if a ball is hit into the outfield when the camera is moving it looks like fuzz i guess? Like I said it is hard to explain. But I am not getting a clear picture like I should when things are moving. You really notice it during brighter colors like white, green, blue, etc. It's rahter annoying. I am just trying to find out a way maybe to describe the problem to a tech or what part may be acting up.

Sounds like motion blur. I get it from time to time but its not really a big deal. It seems to happen most with fast-paced sporting events via digital cable. It doesn't happen with fast action movies on DVD.

Sounds like motion blur. I get it from time to time but its not really a big deal. It seems to happen most with fast-paced sporting events via digital cable. It doesn't happen with fast action movies on DVD.
Maybe that is what it is. I don't really remember noticing it as much as I have been lately.

What resolution is your DVR outputting? You might want to try sending 720p if you are currently at 1080i and see if that helps. :confused:

I doubt this will help, but you never know. I'm sending 1080i from my DVR and it looks fine.

What resolution is your DVR outputting? You might want to try sending 720p if you are currently at 1080i and see if that helps. :confused:

I doubt this will help, but you never know. I'm sending 1080i from my DVR and it looks fine.
Would you be able to PM me the settings of your TV? I just want to see if the settings I have right now may be causing it.

I had to change thrmal fuse and lamp recently. Can somebody please post steps to check "lamp hours" after relacement. I have found steps on some other treads but it did not work for me. Thank you in advance. KDF-55XS955

I had to change thrmal fuse and lamp recently. Can somebody please post steps to check "lamp hours" after relacement. I have found steps on some other treads but it did not work for me. Thank you in advance. KDF-55XS955

To check lamp hours, click here. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8045683&&#post8045683)

To reset lamp hours, click here. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8494955&&#post8494955)

Thank you for info. It does not work for me for whatever reason. After I go to service menu and press "jump" 3 times it is just blank screen no info. Pressing number 2 after that 9 times does not do anything either. Not sure what I am doing wrong.

What resolution is your DVR outputting? You might want to try sending 720p if you are currently at 1080i and see if that helps. :confused:

I doubt this will help, but you never know. I'm sending 1080i from my DVR and it looks fine.
I noticed it while playing Fifa for 360 today. It kind of looks like black dotted lines going down the screen but you can only notice it on the grass. I don't understand what it could be.

I noticed it while playing Fifa for 360 today. It kind of looks like black dotted lines going down the screen but you can only notice it on the grass. I don't understand what it could be.

Can you snap a pic and show us? The only thing I can think of is aliasing. :confused:

Also, you might want to try bring the sharpness down.

Hello, I'm an owner of the Sony KFD-55XS955 (purchased 11/2004)

What does it mean when after turning the TV set on, after a few minutes, the picture is very dark, then goes black (no picture on the screen). I still get sound, the green light on the front of the set which shows the tv is on is flashing. Then after turning the tv off, and turning it back on after a few minutes all seem normal (maybe the picture is a bit darker than it was).

I called Best Buy (purchased the 4-year plan) and they are having a repair man come to my house on Thursday. I'm not going to call to cancel the appointment even though the tv's picture is working now.

Do you guys think it could be the "light engine"? Is that what it's called? Anyone else on here have/had the same issues?

Thanks

Hello, I'm an owner of the Sony KFD-55XS955 (purchased 11/2004)

What does it mean when after turning the TV set on, after a few minutes, the picture is very dark, then goes black (no picture on the screen). I still get sound, the green light on the front of the set which shows the tv is on is flashing. Then after turning the tv off, and turning it back on after a few minutes all seem normal (maybe the picture is a bit darker than it was).

I called Best Buy (purchased the 4-year plan) and they are having a repair man come to my house on Thursday. I'm not going to call to cancel the appointment even though the tv's picture is working now.

Do you guys think it could be the "light engine"? Is that what it's called? Anyone else on here have/had the same issues?

Thanks

Sounds like the bulb.

Sounds like the bulb.

That's what I'm thinking.

I hope the repair tech doesn't give me a hard time (by telling me nothing is wrong) since I'm now getting a picture. Maybe the picture will get worse between now and Thursday.

My personal opinion is that the next time I would bypass the best buys store and call the authorised Sony repair center direct.

They could troubleshoot these issues with you over the phone as that flashing light is a code. Mine did this for me, ordered a lamp and I had Sony mail it to my house for me to change myself. A lot less trouble for all. No cost to me.

Do you have to pay for the trip to the house? My guess is yes which will be reembursed if Sony descides to cover the issue under the warranty. If not you pay.

Beware that the repairman does not bill you for something that Sony will cover,
they tried to do this to me once also.

I have the 4-year extended warranty. This warranty covers materials and labor. I was assured no cost to me.

Excellent, then sit back and enjoy the ride. Lock the liqour cabinet.

That sounds very much like the bulb, be sure they reset the timer if they change it.

Can you snap a pic and show us? The only thing I can think of is aliasing. :confused:

Also, you might want to try bring the sharpness down.
I will get picture as soon as I can. I will also mess with the sharpness and see if that does anything. Thanks for all your help so far.

My personal opinion is that the next time I would bypass the best buys store and call the authorised Sony repair center direct.

They could troubleshoot these issues with you over the phone as that flashing light is a code. Mine did this for me, ordered a lamp and I had Sony mail it to my house for me to change myself. A lot less trouble for all. No cost to me.

Do you have to pay for the trip to the house? My guess is yes which will be reembursed if Sony descides to cover the issue under the warranty. If not you pay.

Beware that the repairman does not bill you for something that Sony will cover,
they tried to do this to me once also.

NEVER bypass calling BestBuy to do the repair. It's the only way to count strikes towards the lemon clause. Ask me, I know! This set will lemon by it's history, at least mine did! It has lots of issues.

NEVER bypass calling BestBuy to do the repair. It's the only way to count strikes towards the lemon clause. Ask me, I know! This set will lemon by it's history, at least mine did! It has lots of issues.
Ho w many issues with the TV to you need for it to me considered a lemon?

NEVER bypass calling BestBuy to do the repair. It's the only way to count strikes towards the lemon clause. Ask me, I know! This set will lemon by it's history, at least mine did! It has lots of issues.
Can you explain "lemon Clause" I am not familiar. Is that a Best buy thing, a law or what?

BestBuy's EW has a "Lemon" clause, if you have your yellow folder handy READ IT! Basically it's 3 strikes and the set is out. I don't believe a bulb replacement counts.
YMMV with other EWs.

NEVER bypass calling BestBuy to do the repair. It's the only way to count strikes towards the lemon clause. Ask me, I know! This set will lemon by it's history, at least mine did! It has lots of issues.

You think my set will become a lemon? TDMA was responding to my post.

My set (55XS) has been working perfectly since I bought it (Nov./2004). I hope this isn't the start of bad things happening. After my initial scare of very dark picture / then the screen shuts off / blinking green lights... it seems to be back to normal (maybe the picture is a little bit darker now). I still have the service tech coming out on Thursday. Hope he replaces something for the hassle!

And Joe... I've been reading your posts in this thread for what seems to be at least a year. Congrats on getting your's "lemoned".

You think my set will become a lemon? TDMA was responding to my post.

My set (55XS) has been working perfectly since I bought it (Nov./2004). I hope this isn't the start of bad things happening. After my initial scare of very dark picture / then the screen shuts off / blinking green lights... it seems to be back to normal (maybe the picture is a little bit darker now). I still have the service tech coming out on Thursday. Hope he replaces something for the hassle!

And Joe... I've been reading your posts in this thread for what seems to be at least a year. Congrats on getting your's "lemoned".

Congrats isn't "fun", I'd really rather have had no issues. I'm still waiting on the slow as molasses upper management at BB to OK a Samsung HLT6189 which is not a SKU item. It's been 2 months now. I think they use smoke signals, and it's been windy lately! I'd wish they'd have just said no in a week and I'd have just chosen the 6187 and been done with it. Oy it never ends! Or is it just me? ;)
Meanwhile my Sony is "bluer" than ever and poping up the info data like clockwork.
At least Sony would have replaced the light engine (or rather BB) but it's been too many issues over this time period. Maybe I'll get the 60" XBR2 and guarantee another "Lemon" in 4 years! :(

I have a Panasonic HT940 (upconverting) Home Theater unit and a 60' Sony LCD. Until recently the picture quality has been very, very good (I upconvert to 720p). A week ago, all 2:35 aspect ratio movies have a slight, thin, almost transparent line on both the top (a quarter inch front he black bar) and bottom (a quarter inch above the black bar) that stretches horizontally across the screen. It's not there on 1:85 aspect ratio movies and not there on full frame movies...any ideas? I've checked to make sure the HDMI cable is plugged in securely...it is. Thanks.

Has anyone changed out their lamp before the original one died? I am still on my original lamp, but the picture seems to be getting darker to me.

Has anyone changed out their lamp before the original one died? I am still on my original lamp, but the picture seems to be getting darker to me.


Time for it to go. It's a slow death not a "pop" death. It's getting dark means it has been dimming down for months but you didn't know it. Now you are noticing it. It will be like getting a new TV when you change the bulb.

Has anyone changed out their lamp before the original one died? I am still on my original lamp, but the picture seems to be getting darker to me.

Yep, it's probably getting darker. I replaced mine after 2 years and WOW... :eek: what a difference.

I vow to replace mine every 2 years.

Has anyone changed out their lamp before the original one died? I am still on my original lamp, but the picture seems to be getting darker to me.
Scheduled for this Saturday after 2 1/2 years. I haven't checked the hours, but last time I did it was around 5,000.

My 55xs is 2 years/8 months old. Best Buy called me this morning and will be at my house between 10:00 & 12:00. I checked the # of hours on the lamp last night... it's at 3800ish.

Wonder if that's normal time for when the lamp goes? It works out to be about 4 hours per day use since I bought it.

Would someone PM me a recommended place to buy a new lamp? Thanks.

My 55xs is 2 years/8 months old. Best Buy called me this morning and will be at my house between 10:00 & 12:00. I checked the # of hours on the lamp last night... it's at 3800ish.

Wonder if that's normal time for when the lamp goes? It works out to be about 4 hours per day use since I bought it.


How does one check the lamp hours? Thanks.

How does one check the lamp hours? Thanks.
check post #1855 in this thread

check post #1855 in this thread


That is how I checked my lamp hours.

The technician came and went today. He had a new bulb in the box in his hand when I answered the door. Took him all of 15 minutes (probably only 2 minutes of actual installation). He didn't know how to reset the lamp timer, so I'll do that myself (thanks to the post listed above)

The optical block in my 60XS955 is going. Came home today and turned it on and the blue cloud is there on the left side of the TV. Good thing Sony extended the warranty on these things. The TV was purchased in Dec 2004. I just replaced the lamp a couple of months ago. Hopefully it doesn't take too long to get the service guys out here to repair it.

While 70 inch XBR5 is around the corner, I do not want to waste $200 plus on bulb etc

The technician came and went today. He had a new bulb in the box in his hand when I answered the door. Took him all of 15 minutes (probably only 2 minutes of actual installation). He didn't know how to reset the lamp timer, so I'll do that myself (thanks to the post listed above)

Thanks to all that posted earlier instructions at this thread about Lamp replacement and reset hours.

Had same experience as described above. I asked the tech if he wanted the lamp reset instructions, and he stayed and reset the lamp hours. We kept the set on while the Lamp reset, and watched as it went from 5600+ hours to zero. He then took the instructions with him :)

He was actually very good, knew about the other problems with the set, and had replaced light engines on it before. He was on his way to replace a light engine on the XBR, which he described as more complicated and taking twice as long. He mentioned the light engine problem (blue blotch) seemed to appear small, and then grows in size. Hopefully I'll never find out.

He never checked the original lamp brightness with the set on, as I told him I had the set off so that the lamp would be cool for him to replace and not potentially burn his hand.

He took the original lamp (I tried to keep it), and indicated Sony takes them back due to Mercury content. This was not a Sony tech visit, but from a big box store where I have my Extended Warranty. Though no cost to me, the receipt I received indicated $200 for Lamp and $150 for labor.

Overall, a simple process.

He mentioned the light engine problem (blue blotch) seemed to appear small, and then grows in size. Hopefully I'll never find out.



Well here's a couple of examples of the Blue Disease 2 1/2 months out. I'm still waiting for BestBuy to reply to my request or get an acceptable new model in stock. (How do they compete in this arena? All their RPTVs are old stock?)

Well here's a couple of examples of the Blue Disease 2 1/2 months out. I'm still waiting for BestBuy to reply to my request or get an acceptable new model in stock. (How do they compete in this arena? All their RPTVs are old stock?)

That's exactly what my set looks like, though not as advanced. At least it's still watchable. The Sony rep was pretty helpful and I shouldn't have to pay anything out of pocket. The service tech just has to verify the blue cloud and Sony deals with them for payment.

Well here's a couple of examples of the Blue Disease 2 1/2 months out. I'm still waiting for BestBuy to reply to my request or get an acceptable new model in stock. (How do they compete in this arena? All their RPTVs are old stock?)

Given Sony's warranty extension, why not approach them instead of Best Buy? Maybe the process will be better. I feel for ya.

Given Sony's warranty extension, why not approach them instead of Best Buy? Maybe the process will be better. I feel for ya.

The set was lemoned so I will continue on. The upside is 1080p, the downside is, the unknown... I'm trying to get the Samsung HTL6189S BB only stocks the 87. I hve the "budget" for the 89 and they have no other big ticket RPTVs. To get a flat LCD is to much more $$$ and un available anyway. BB is seriously getting low end in their selection. The Magnolia section is a joke. Oh, no Plasma, too bright a room and X-360. I believe in burn in as opposed to those that dream it won't.

That's exactly what my set looks like, though not as advanced. At least it's still watchable. The Sony rep was pretty helpful and I shouldn't have to pay anything out of pocket. The service tech just has to verify the blue cloud and Sony deals with them for payment.

The optical engine was replaced today on my 60XS955. I had just replaced the lamp a month or two ago and the picture looks brand new. Even better, it cost me nothing out of pocket. Sony's customer service has been less than stellar in the past but they handled this very well and were pleasant and professional to deal with, and the repair was completed within a week of me first contacting them. Hopefully the repair holds and I can get 3 more years out of this set before I move up to a 1080p TV.

The set was lemoned so I will continue on. The upside is 1080p, the downside is, the unknown... I'm trying to get the Samsung HTL6189S BB only stocks the 87. I hve the "budget" for the 89 and they have no other big ticket RPTVs. To get a flat LCD is to much more $$$ and un available anyway. BB is seriously getting low end in their selection. The Magnolia section is a joke. Oh, no Plasma, too bright a room and X-360. I believe in burn in as opposed to those that dream it won't.


I just got the email approving my special order! Yay! Maybe now I can get back to enjoying TV again. Of course my 360 Elite gave hints it may die and so it goes! It never ends!

Of course my 360 Elite gave hints it may die and so it goes! It never ends!

Oh noes! :(

At least MS is committed to repairing the faulty 360s totally on their dime. :o If you've gotten any red rings of death, snap a pic and send the unit in pronto!

Oh noes! :(

At least MS is committed to repairing the faulty 360s totally on their dime. :o If you've gotten any red rings of death, snap a pic and send the unit in pronto!

I'm a veteran. This is my 4th unit 3 RRoD. It's cost me though, as it all happened before MS' epiphany. At least I'll be able to run it at 1080p and watch it die so purrrty. ;)

It's cost me though, as it all happened before MS' epiphany.

Good news! MS is refunding (http://www.xbox.com/en-US/support/petermooreletter.htm) all people who had RROD and paid out of pocket expenses.

Good news! MS is refunding (http://www.xbox.com/en-US/support/petermooreletter.htm) all people who had RROD and paid out of pocket expenses.

If I had kept the receipts after I finished with BestBuy. I'm sure I could have at least recovered the cost of the warranty. If. :(

Now it's official. I just Red Ringed on my Elite! :eek: :mad: :eek: :mad:

Sorry for the Off topic, just frustrated!

Updating on my other problem from a page or 2 ago, I think I am just getting a bad "screen door" affect. It seems ever since I replaced the bulb and have a much brighter picture I have noticed it more. Are there any settings that could make this less noticeable? Does anybody else have the same sort of problem? Thanks in advance for any help or info you can provide.

Updating on my other problem from a page or 2 ago, I think I am just getting a bad "screen door" affect. It seems ever since I replaced the bulb and have a much brighter picture I have noticed it more. Are there any settings that could make this less noticeable? Does anybody else have the same sort of problem? Thanks in advance for any help or info you can provide.

Maybe as your bulb dimmed you adjusted your settings up a bit at a time and forgot about it. Maybe go back to the start of this thread for some calibration ideas and reset them??

Maybe as your bulb dimmed you adjusted your settings up a bit at a time and forgot about it. Maybe go back to the start of this thread for some calibration ideas and reset them??
What key setting should I be looking to adjust?

What key setting should I be looking to adjust?

I'd find a calibration list from an earlier post and try it as is. Nothing in particular as I don't know what you did, I know when I had the bulb changed I had to redo my settings as I was adjusting some a bit at a time.

I'd find a calibration list from an earlier post and try it as is. Nothing in particular as I don't know what you did, I know when I had the bulb changed I had to redo my settings as I was adjusting some a bit at a time.
Ok thanks

Last night, noticed a blue haze in the lower right corner of the screen. I've checked out the pictures on Sony's site, and the pics linked above, and my problem is very minor compared to the examples. It grows in size?

So, I have the Best Buy 4 year warranty and Sony's extension through Dec '08. Is there any way I can get a new tv out of this? Which warranty service should I attempt?

Last night, noticed a blue haze in the lower right corner of the screen. I've checked out the pictures on Sony's site, and the pics linked above, and my problem is very minor compared to the examples. It grows in size?

So, I have the Best Buy 4 year warranty and Sony's extension through Dec '08. Is there any way I can get a new tv out of this? Which warranty service should I attempt?

It will grow. Sony extended warrant only covers cost of repair. New tv is doubtful.

Does anyone have any idea of what the ms audio delay is in the 60XS955 or if there is one at all?

Last night, noticed a blue haze in the lower right corner of the screen. I've checked out the pictures on Sony's site, and the pics linked above, and my problem is very minor compared to the examples. It grows in size?

So, I have the Best Buy 4 year warranty and Sony's extension through Dec '08. Is there any way I can get a new tv out of this? Which warranty service should I attempt?

Definitely use your Best Buy warranty, that's why you bought it, right? It has a lemon clause, read it.

Called Best Buy warranty service, had the local repairman come out lickity split to confirm the Blue Disease.

He identified not only the growing area in the lower right of the screen, but also a faint blue blob in the middle of the screen. He said that he is having to replace a lot of light engines right now.

He mentioned that the Best Buy plan was a good thing, because I would have had to bring the set to him to do the repair if I didn't have it. Also, he mentioned that when he changes the light engine, he gets inside and removes all of the dust from the miscellaneous fans and components.

He also told me that turning the set off and on quickly really causes a shortage in the lamp life, because it needs the time to cool off, and to never leave the set turned on during a storm because loss of electricity prevents the fan from cooling the lamp off.

I'll update you guys if I hear anything new.

I just got the email approving my special order! Yay! Maybe now I can get back to enjoying TV again. Of course my 360 Elite gave hints it may die and so it goes! It never ends!

It never ends. After the Elite RRoD'd my main PC died (MoBo PS and HDD all died in a horrible symphony of "pop!" What a month I'm having! Dell came out and replaced the MoBo and PS under warranty, that's when Vista wouldn't restart and the HDD gave up the ghost! (Hitachi DeathStar that I installed for more space!) It's prolly all related but I can't blame Dell for the HDD, but the replacement PS is constantly turning on so another one is on its way. OY!
Back to the TV and topic!
OK so I'm approved on the Samsung replacement special order. It takes a week or so to succsessfuly enter the SKU into the computer and actually work! Then I'm informed by my Magnolia agent that they need to take back my XS to get the credit BEFORE they can order the Samsung and that would take a MONTH to deliver! :eek: You mean I'm with no TV for a MONTH! I say. :eek: :( :confused: I literally was being told this on the phone and was standing, I had to sit down before I'd fall from disappointment. I asked if there was any way to get a loaner? He said he'd see and call me back. In about 15 minutes he called. They have a yellow tag Sony 50" SXRD I could "buy" as a loaner. So that's what I did with the receipt noted that they're taking it back on delivery of the Samsung.
Next chapter (it is an Epic after all!). I buy the loaner and we setup Friday (today) as the delivery/exchange. So I get a call on Thursday afternoon to confirm from the warehouse. Cool, I think! Not so fast Joe. I get another call about an hour later from another warehouse guy saying Culver City BB never got the 50" out to them to deliver to me. So I should expext a call from a Culver City Bb manager to arrange something else! :eek: :eek: :eek: I don't wait, I call Daniel at the BB Magnolia. He's there and is unaware of any problems. He apologizes and goes to check. It's true, someone there didn't get the TV on the truck to get it to the warehouse. (Wed is his day off so he couldn't do it.) He says we'll do the exchange on Saturday if that's OK. So now it's Saturday.

So now we wait and see. :confused: :(

Man, Joe... if it wasn't for bad luck, you would have no luck at all. :(

But thanks for sharing -- you have the most epic electronic adventures I've ever read! :o

Wow Joe, you need to go to Vegas and get a job as a 'Cooler'.

Thanks guys, for the confidence! ;)
So I get a call today from Daniel my rep at BB, they missed the truck AGAIN! So, he says, I'm going to commandeer a truck and bring this set over in the next two hours! By God, HE DOES! I now have a 50" 2020 model SXRD. It looks soooo good, it is NOT blue! No we see if we can get the rest of this done in the next month!

When I look to replace my lamp, how will it come.

I went to one site and saw just the lamp itself; however, I thought I saw in the manual a casing etc. around the lamp.

I did do a search, but has anyone recently bought a lamp at a good price with shipping etc.? if so, where?

And is this a XL-2200 or a "workable replacement?" - http://store.l-f-l.com/cgi-bin/cp-app.cgi?rrc=N&pg=prod&ref=a-1085-447-a&op=XL+2200&db=SONY&CMP=BAC-CNET

Thanks guys (and gals)

Dwaine

Hey guys and gals,

Thanks to this site I was able to check my LAMP hours on my SONY KDF-60XS955 literally minutes before it went out for good!

There were two numbers: 10,000 (or so) and 2450 (or so)

Now, I can assume that the 2450 number is the number of hours the Lamp has been on and in use (actually providing light for a picture) and that the 10,000 number is the number of hours the TV has been plugged in or something like that?

Am I correct?

Notice the clarification though... "providing light for a picture"

Sometimes I come in the room several hours after the kids have left the room and the TV is on (green light for power), but there is no signal (i.e. it is set to cable and the cable box is off). Does this count towards LAMP time?

Dwaine

NOTE: I think I got a pretty good deal on a SONY XL-2200 Lamp at $130 total cost.

Sometimes I come in the room several hours after the kids have left the room and the TV is on (green light for power), but there is no signal (i.e. it is set to cable and the cable box is off). Does this count towards LAMP time?

If the TV is on, the lamp is burning and counting toward hours used... even if it's just displaying a blank/black picture.

... [snip] ...

NOTE: I think I got a pretty good deal on a SONY XL-2200 Lamp at $130 total cost.

Would you mind sharing where you got this deal from? Was it an Internet place or a B&M store? Thanks!

Thanks for the clarification -- that's what I thought.

Do you know what the two different numbers represent?

From a seller on eBay with a VERY high rating and so far all is well. If not, i will let you know.

I looked specifically for NEW IN BOX and SONY XL-2200 and avoided "replacement for SONY XL-2200"

Do you know what the two different numbers represent?

I believe, if you were in the correct menu, the first number is lamp hours on and the second is power cycles (times turned on then off).

How long have you had the TV?

Hey guys, I posted a thread about my problem and then found this thread so maybe you guys can help. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the military and just got orders to England. I will be there for 3 years. Started thinking of things that will be different over there and realized something. Don't know too much about it but I was told that my TV may not work over there due to them having some kind of different service programmming????

I have a Sony 60" KDF-60XS955 Rear projection LCD TV and I am wondering if I will have any problems over there viewing normal TV or cable. If so, is there a way around it or something I can buy for it to work properly. I have had this TV for about 2 years and I love it and don't want to have to part without it.

Any info at all would be appreciated,

AL

Hey guys, I posted a thread about my problem and then found this thread so maybe you guys can help. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the military and just got orders to England. I will be there for 3 years. Started thinking of things that will be different over there and realized something. Don't know too much about it but I was told that my TV may not work over there due to them having some kind of different service programmming????

I have a Sony 60" KDF-60XS955 Rear projection LCD TV and I am wondering if I will have any problems over there viewing normal TV or cable. If so, is there a way around it or something I can buy for it to work properly. I have had this TV for about 2 years and I love it and don't want to have to part without it.

Any info at all would be appreciated,

AL


Will the crating and move cost you anything? If so
1)doubt it will be worth it
2) doubt it will survive the trip.
3) not sure on it working over there, I think not, will let others chime in on that.

Yeah, looking to see if anyone knows. Not worry about the crating and shipping. Military takes care of that and if they brake it, I show them what I paid for it and they reimburse me what I paid for it, or pay for a equivilant tv brand new.

So like I said, looking to see if anyone knows wether I can use it over there or not.

Called Best Buy warranty service, had the local repairman come out lickity split to confirm the Blue Disease.

He identified not only the growing area in the lower right of the screen, but also a faint blue blob in the middle of the screen. He said that he is having to replace a lot of light engines right now.

He mentioned that the Best Buy plan was a good thing, because I would have had to bring the set to him to do the repair if I didn't have it. Also, he mentioned that when he changes the light engine, he gets inside and removes all of the dust from the miscellaneous fans and components.


I'm actually looking around for places to purchase these exact parts. I am well trained in electronics repair and am sure I can do it myself, mainly because someone has offered me a KDF-55WF655 for free, just with this same problem. I figured 'Free? It would ok to sink a little bit of cash in it to fix it'. And if I break it, I'm only out of..well, $0 :)

That would be incredible!!!

I bought the TV in October of 2004, so jusat under three years.

10,000+ LAMP hours WOW!

I'm actually looking around for places to purchase these exact parts. I am well trained in electronics repair and am sure I can do it myself, mainly because someone has offered me a KDF-55WF655 for free, just with this same problem. I figured 'Free? It would ok to sink a little bit of cash in it to fix it'. And if I break it, I'm only out of..well, $0 :)

You might try calling Sony, they seem to be repairing "blue" issues out of warranty.

Hey guys, I posted a thread about my problem and then found this thread so maybe you guys can help. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the military and just got orders to England. I will be there for 3 years. Started thinking of things that will be different over there and realized something. Don't know too much about it but I was told that my TV may not work over there due to them having some kind of different service programmming????

I have a Sony 60" KDF-60XS955 Rear projection LCD TV and I am wondering if I will have any problems over there viewing normal TV or cable. If so, is there a way around it or something I can buy for it to work properly. I have had this TV for about 2 years and I love it and don't want to have to part without it.

Any info at all would be appreciated,

AL
I looked at the specs for your tv. It only mentions NTSC tuner which is the U.S. standard. Europe uses PAL. Besides that the tv only takes 115 volts. Europe house current is single phase 220 volts. You will need to step down the voltage or you will fry the power supply when you plug it in.

I'm actually looking around for places to purchase these exact parts. I am well trained in electronics repair and am sure I can do it myself, mainly because someone has offered me a KDF-55WF655 for free, just with this same problem. I figured 'Free? It would ok to sink a little bit of cash in it to fix it'. And if I break it, I'm only out of..well, $0 :)

I tried to get parts before Sony started covering the blue blob issue. Forget it. They will only sell to authorized repair center. The shop will not do it either because they have to return the old parts to be refurbished or they get charged the full price for the OB.

The unit is covered by extended warranty that covers parts and labor. Just open a beer and let Sony fix it free of charge.

Hey guys, I posted a thread about my problem and then found this thread so maybe you guys can help. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the military and just got orders to England. I will be there for 3 years. Started thinking of things that will be different over there and realized something. Don't know too much about it but I was told that my TV may not work over there due to them having some kind of different service programmming????

I have a Sony 60" KDF-60XS955 Rear projection LCD TV and I am wondering if I will have any problems over there viewing normal TV or cable. If so, is there a way around it or something I can buy for it to work properly. I have had this TV for about 2 years and I love it and don't want to have to part without it.

Any info at all would be appreciated,

AL

They use a different system over there. In North America is it a NTSC system.

In the UK, I believe it is PAL with a different number of lines, etc. Your TV won't work over there.

Hey guys.

I got my new lamp in and BOY can I tell a difference.

Now, for those of you who have done this AND have calibrated your TV -- did you recalibrate after replacing the Lamp?

Dwaine

Do they have any kind of converter box or something that I can purchase that would allow me to use my TV over there?

Hey guys.

I got my new lamp in and BOY can I tell a difference.

Now, for those of you who have done this AND have calibrated your TV -- did you recalibrate after replacing the Lamp?

Dwaine


Yes what a difference a new lamp makes. If you have tweaked on your set to keep brightness up as your old bulb was dimming, then you might need to go back and adjust a few things. I ended up going through my calibration dvd again. A little quicker this time as I knew what to look for. It couldn't hurt.

To my friends who followed my long nightmare saga...it may have been resolved now. As a final entry in the special order Samsung from BestBuy, they lost it. A 61" LED DLP fell off the Earth. I checked on Wednesday and it was on track for delivery to the store on Thursday night. Well, it's gone. It never arrived. Where is it? Who knows and Who isn't in until Monday. So I asked my sales guy to switch me to the 65" Mits Diamond which they have 16 IN STOCK. I'm giving up on LED for old school DLP but hey. It's The Mirrors!
It'll take about a week to get it, but that's at least SOP. If I actually get it, I'll be over in the xx833 Mits forum! Had a 50" 2020 SXRD as a loaner. Nice set, but if it was mine I'd have to have a service to correct overscan! :eek:
Yeah, it's me. I can't wait to see what adventures are to come with the Mits!

If they have 16 in stock why does it take a week to get it?!

If they have 16 in stock why does it take a week to get it?!

Because it's me. :eek: I'm OK with it, at least it will come.

Because it's me. :eek: I'm OK with it, at least it will come.


Let's hope you don't see the rainbows with DLP. ;)

Hopefully you have better luck with the new set. It's disappointing to spend so much $ on a TV and have so many issues.

It's disappointing to spend so much $ on a TV and have so many issues.

Good luck Joe! I'll miss the epic stories in this thread. :o

Good luck Joe! I'll miss the epic stories in this thread. :o

They could be just beginning in the xx833 Diamond thread! :eek::D;)

I have a 60XS955 that I purchased from Future Shop (Canada) and after being assured by the salesman that their extended warranty covered bulb replacement I agreed to buy the ext. warranty. After 2 years the set started to turn off maybe once a month and then come back on and stay on. Now, after 2 1/2 years, it suddenly started to turn off and back on continuously (won't stay on for more than 30 seconds or so). I haven't noticed any drastic change in the picture (getting darker, etc.).
I read at least one post in this thread from someone with the same problem and he solved it by replacing the bulb. After contacting Future Shop and receiving a call from their out-sourced repair shop the tech also said it sounds like the bulb needs to be replaced but Future Shop won't cover it under their ext. warranty and it will cost you $488! (I just checked SonyStyle Canada and they go for $299)
I checked the lamp time and it was 12,455 so I guess if the bulb needs to be replaced I shouldn't complain, but I will be really po'd if FS doesn't cover it.
Has anyone else had this same issue or had any experience with bulb replacement under Future Shop extended warranty? I read through the fine print and couldn't see anything that said bulb replacement not included.

Good luck Joe! I'll miss the epic stories in this thread. :o

So, DaverJ. I got the Mits on Saturday. As LarryD would say... Pretty Pretty Nice, yeah, Pretty Pretty Nice. :cool:

I think I'll now bow out of this forum, Good luck to all, if it starts getting a blue hot spot in a corner, call Sony pronto!

Joe

Paul37,
I have a 55xs955 and after two and a half years of heavy use, the display developed the symptoms you describe. Replacing the bulb did indeed cure the problem. However, I've got to warn you about what you replace that bulb with. I ordered an "OEM equivalent" part online to have on hand when my original bulb finally failed. The original failed about five months later so I pop in the replacement in five minutes and I'm back in business. Four months of use and the replacement blows up! Back online to get another replacement from a different vendor that claims the part is manufactured by Sony. It is not. It is the same POS as my first replacement, manufactured by LTI (Lighting Technologies International). Only a 90 day warranty on this to boot. My original bulb had a Phillips label on the bulb housing.

If a replacement bulb says it comes complete with the housing it is likely a knock off. The original bulb is meant to be removed from its housing when it needs replacing. No big deal, three screws, two wires. I found an outfit, dlplampsource.com that appears to sell such a bulb for our display. For a fifteen dollar premium to the POS version, you get a one year warranty and likely five times the longevity. $160.00 US , free shipping.

PS Don't toss the lamp housing when you replace your bulb! Also, most of the vendors offer at most a 90 day warranty. If you order a bulb to 'have on hand' you probably stand a good chance of exceeding the warranty period before you actually use it.

Paul37,
I have a 55xs955 and after two and a half years of heavy use, the display developed the symptoms you describe. Replacing the bulb did indeed cure the problem. However, I've got to warn you about what you replace that bulb with. I ordered an "OEM equivalent" part online to have on hand when my original bulb finally failed. The original failed about five months later so I pop in the replacement in five minutes and I'm back in business. Four months of use and the replacement blows up! Back online to get another replacement from a different vendor that claims the part is manufactured by Sony. It is not. It is the same POS as my first replacement, manufactured by LTI (Lighting Technologies International). Only a 90 day warranty on this to boot. My original bulb had a Phillips label on the bulb housing.

If a replacement bulb says it comes complete with the housing it is likely a knock off. The original bulb is meant to be removed from its housing when it needs replacing. No big deal, three screws, two wires. I found an outfit, dlplampsource.com that appears to sell such a bulb for our display. For a fifteen dollar premium to the POS version, you get a one year warranty and likely five times the longevity. $160.00 US , free shipping.

PS Don't toss the lamp housing when you replace your bulb! Also, most of the vendors offer at most a 90 day warranty. If you order a bulb to 'have on hand' you probably stand a good chance of exceeding the warranty period before you actually use it.

I have a 60xs955, but I believe the bulb is the same for both sets. I am not sure what you are calling the housing, but I ordered my replacement bulb directly from Sony and the bulb came sealed in a black housing. To replace only required removing one screw with a supplied allen wrench. Pulled the light unit straight out and pushed the new unit in. Tightened the one screw and done. Like I said, the part came directly from Sony so it was not a knock off. The manual that came with the TV also described the change in this manner.

Paul37,
I have a 55xs955 and after two and a half years of heavy use, the display developed the symptoms you describe. Replacing the bulb did indeed cure the problem. However, I've got to warn you about what you replace that bulb with. I ordered an "OEM equivalent" part online to have on hand when my original bulb finally failed. The original failed about five months later so I pop in the replacement in five minutes and I'm back in business. Four months of use and the replacement blows up! Back online to get another replacement from a different vendor that claims the part is manufactured by Sony. It is not. It is the same POS as my first replacement, manufactured by LTI (Lighting Technologies International). Only a 90 day warranty on this to boot. My original bulb had a Phillips label on the bulb housing.

If a replacement bulb says it comes complete with the housing it is likely a knock off. The original bulb is meant to be removed from its housing when it needs replacing. No big deal, three screws, two wires. I found an outfit, dlplampsource.com that appears to sell such a bulb for our display. For a fifteen dollar premium to the POS version, you get a one year warranty and likely five times the longevity. $160.00 US , free shipping.

PS Don't toss the lamp housing when you replace your bulb! Also, most of the vendors offer at most a 90 day warranty. If you order a bulb to 'have on hand' you probably stand a good chance of exceeding the warranty period before you actually use it.

Thanks for the heads up. A service guy is supposed to come in the next day or 2 to check my set. If it needs a bulb I'm not going to let him install one since he wants $488 for it. I'll buy one direct from Sony and install it myself.

I have a 60xs955, but I believe the bulb is the same for both sets. I am not sure what you are calling the housing, but I ordered my replacement bulb directly from Sony and the bulb came sealed in a black housing. To replace only required removing one screw with a supplied allen wrench. Pulled the light unit straight out and pushed the new unit in. Tightened the one screw and done. Like I said, the part came directly from Sony so it was not a knock off. The manual that came with the TV also described the change in this manner.

Yeah, looking at my manual that's what I was expecting - all one unit, just one screw involved (after removing the bulb cover). Apparently they contain mercury so I'll probably take the old one to the hazarous waste disposal dropoff.

I replaced mine myself. Sony diagnosed the problem over the phone and sent me the lamp fed ex.

You local shop will probably bill you for the trip.

They wanted the old bulb back, they sent the shipping documents with the new. Just put the old back in the box and call the shipper.

Be carefull. my local shop tried to tell me the lamp was not covered by warranty and tried to bill me and also bill sony warranty.

Texadillo

The black plastic cage around the actual bulb is what I'm refering to as the housing. With my original "bulb", the housing can be opened to remove/replace the bulb itself. If you'll take a look at dlplampsource.com (choose sony then XL-2200) you will see for yourself. I don't know what Sony is selling as a replacement lamp. It may say Sony on the box but not on the unit itself. Do you still have the original to compare with your replacement? If the housing can't be opened I'm betting its a knock off. If it can be opened, Sony has charged you somewhere north of forty bucks for the 'convenience' of not having to swap out the lamp from your original housing! The length of the warranty Sony gives may also be a clue to the quality of the lamp.

FWIW the knock off I bought has obvious differences in appearance to the factory installed unit aside from not being able to be opened.

Texadillo

The black plastic cage around the actual bulb is what I'm refering to as the housing. With my original "bulb", the housing can be opened to remove/replace the bulb itself. If you'll take a look at dlplampsource.com (choose sony then XL-2200) you will see for yourself. I don't know what Sony is selling as a replacement lamp. It may say Sony on the box but not on the unit itself. Do you still have the original to compare with your replacement? If the housing can't be opened I'm betting its a knock off. If it can be opened, Sony has charged you somewhere north of forty bucks for the 'convenience' of not having to swap out the lamp from your original housing! The length of the warranty Sony gives may also be a clue to the quality of the lamp.

FWIW the knock off I bought has obvious differences in appearance to the factory installed unit aside from not being able to be opened.

I do still have the original and the casing and all markings are identical. You may be right about the convenience fee, I don't know. I bought the lamp about 6 months ago at a cost of $174.95. Not sure about the warranty. Considering how sensitive these type of bulbs are to body oils and dirt, I would rather pay a couple dollars more and not have to touch the bulb.

Edit: I just looked at the web site you mentioned and it looks like the bulb is protected. I would go this route the next time. Thanks

I replaced mine myself. Sony diagnosed the problem over the phone and sent me the lamp fed ex.

You local shop will probably bill you for the trip.

They wanted the old bulb back, they sent the shipping documents with the new. Just put the old back in the box and call the shipper.

Be carefull. my local shop tried to tell me the lamp was not covered by warranty and tried to bill me and also bill sony warranty.

I ended up replacing the lamp myself too. Couldn't get one from Sony though -the SonyStyle website said out of stock for the XL-2200 bulb and none of the Sony stores had any. Finally found one at a Sony authorized repair shop.
The extended warranty from the store where I bought my tv paid for the service call even though I declined to have the lamp replaced. I'm still considering taking them to small claims court though since the terms and conditions of their warranty doesn't mention anything about the bulbs being excluded.

I bought the 5 warranty directly from Sony after I got my set. My bulb is 2 1/2 years old but is still working.

The warranty documents don't specifically speak to the bulb.

1 Has anyone had a new bulb covered by the Sony Warranty?

2 If so, can you just order a replacement, or do they have to come out?

3. And must the old bulb be burned out to get a new one?

I'm just wondering because I'm reading that the bulbs dim over time, so it might be time to get a new one.

Thanks!

I ended up replacing the lamp myself too. Couldn't get one from Sony though -the SonyStyle website said out of stock for the XL-2200 bulb and none of the Sony stores had any. Finally found one at a Sony authorized repair shop.
The extended warranty from the store where I bought my tv paid for the service call even though I declined to have the lamp replaced. I'm still considering taking them to small claims court though since the terms and conditions of their warranty doesn't mention anything about the bulbs being excluded.

I just got one too! would u please share instructions?

I just got one too! would u please share instructions?
If you still have your User Manual the instructions (with illustrations) for replacing the lamp start on page 16. If not:

1. Turn off the power on the main unit. Wait several minutes, then unplug the power cord.
2. Wait at least 30 minutes after unplugging the power cord to allow the lamp to cool down before replacing it.
3. Remove the front panel cover of the TV.
4. Loosen the screw on the lamp cover, slide the knob to the left, pull out the lamp cover. Loosen the screw that holds the lamp (with the allen key that should have come with your replacement lamp), then pull out the lamp.
5. Without touching the glass of the new lamp, insert it and tighten the screw. Replace the lamp cover, slide the knob to the right until the ^ marks line up and then tighten the screw.
6. Reattch the front panel cover.

Hope that helps. Be careful not to touch the glass of your new bulb.

My 2005 Kdf55655wf joins the ranks of the blue burn in.

I bought the 5 warranty directly from Sony after I got my set. My bulb is 2 1/2 years old but is still working.

The warranty documents don't specifically speak to the bulb.

1 Has anyone had a new bulb covered by the Sony Warranty?

2 If so, can you just order a replacement, or do they have to come out?

3. And must the old bulb be burned out to get a new one?

I'm just wondering because I'm reading that the bulbs did over time, so it might be time to get a new one.

Thanks!

I had the original 1 year warranty and Sony covered the lamp. I had a hassel with the local service center who tried to screw me and sony by saying it was not covered and wanted me to pay for the lamp pick it up and replace it myself. I am sure they where going to bill sony for a service call

The final outcome was I complained to Sony about the local shop, diagnosed the problem over the phone with sony corp. and they fed exed a new lamp overnight to my house which I replaced myself. They wanted the old lamp back and enclosed all the shipping documents with the new and said to just put the old in the new's box.

The local shop really sucked, so if you can try to deal with sony direct.
I told them I was trying to save us both time and money.

I had the prblem where the set would not power up and blinked the green light several times, that is how and why sony covered the lamp under warranty.

If yours works you may not have a claim.

Not quite sure if this is the correct thread.
I just had the bulb replaced through Best Buy's in home service on my KDF-50WE655.

Is there anything special I need to do once the bulb is replaced, like leave the TV on for a certain amount of time? I can already tell I might need to do some recalibrating, but the picture on this thing is brighter than it's ever been.

Yup a new bulb does wonders for the picture as the bulb will fade from the moment you fire it up. The fade is so gradual that after 1000's of hours it's not really noticable but replacing it gives you a good idea of how the picture changed. The good part is a new bulb and you have a new brighter picture. You can't do that with a plasma or lcd and the cost of the bulbs are now less then $200. I had mine done last year after 2 1/2 years.

The only thing you can do (if you're comfortable in the service menu) is reset your lamp timer. This will give you an idea of how many hours you have. The tech did mine when they changed the bulb, balast, and cleaned the tv. You would be surprised how much dust collects in these things. My fan is starting to get louder so before my warranty goes I'm going to have the optical block and exhuast fans replaced.

i changed bulb, new bulb was dimmer than old, put the old back!

The only thing you can do (if you're comfortable in the service menu) is reset your lamp timer. This will give you an idea of how many hours you have. The tech did mine when they changed the bulb, balast, and cleaned the tv. You would be surprised how much dust collects in these things. My fan is starting to get louder so before my warranty goes I'm going to have the optical block and exhuast fans replaced.

I'm not even sure how to get into the service menu, so I might just leave that alone.

It's funny you mention the fan, I had to have my exhaust fan replaced a few months ago because it had become louder than the fan in my XBOX 360.

Did you have just the exhuast fan or the optical block fan done too?

The main exhuast fan is easy to get to but the optical block fan is buried in there. I could easliy do the main fan. If that fixed your fan noise I might research the model number and do it myself. Mine is not as loud as my 360 but I hear it now when up until now I never did. Slight whine when the room is completely quiet. I'm just not sure which fan I'm hearing. If it is the optical fan then I'm leaving it to my warranty. Guess I could get the inside cleaned again while they're at it.

Oh here you go on resetting lamp hours if you dare. It's easy if you follow the steps.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8494955&&#post8494955

It was just the exhaust fan that was causing the noise for me. It was replaced under the Best Buy warranty, and it fixed all the noise problems I was having.

Thanks for the reset instructions. I'm gonna do that tonight.

Ok - I think my first bulb may have finally died... Where is the best place to order from? SonyStyle? I would like to order today for over night shipping to hopefully have it by Thanksgiving...

I got a brand new bulb, never been used. I got it as a replacement from Sears direct from Sony, but I don't need it and I already have a spare backup bulb on hand. If somone wants it, PM me your offers.

I have owned a Sony KDF-60XS955 for about two and half years now. I so far have replaced two thermal fuses and one bulb. Pretty damn expensive TV thus far. No extended warranty.

:(its this dead pixels or the blue fog on a sony kdf-55xs955

Call sony open a file...


http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?mdl=KDF60WF655&news_id=206

:(its this dead pixels or the blue fog on a sony kdf-55xs955

Eventually it will get like this and unusable. This pic is a black srceen.

calling sony today thank you

Hi folks,

I know this has probably been asked a thousand times but I need that warm, cozy feeling before I spend $200 hard earned cash! I have a KDF60XS955, purchased in Jan 2005. Recently, the picture has shut off, the green light flashes like 30 times and then the picture comes back on. This is regardless of input source (Cable, DVD and PS3). I followed the directions listed on this thread and found LampTM = 6342 and LampCT = 2587. Is it time for a new lamp?

Thanks all!

Hi folks,

I know this has probably been asked a thousand times but I need that warm, cozy feeling before I spend $200 hard earned cash! I have a KDF60XS955, purchased in Jan 2005. Recently, the picture has shut off, the green light flashes like 30 times and then the picture comes back on. This is regardless of input source (Cable, DVD and PS3). I followed the directions listed on this thread and found LampTM = 6342 and LampCT = 2587. Is it time for a new lamp?

Thanks all!
Afraid it is time for a lamp replacement. I suggest you read several posts on this thread pertaining to the subject. #1936 is a good place to start.

Thanks! Ordered it and it's on its way - looks like resetting the lamp hours shouldn't be too difficult either.

good news i call sony on 12/3 and their going to replace the optical block
12/10 very fast

I too suffer from the blue fog although its minor. It's at the bottom of the picture and is about 2 feet wide and only about 2 inches high. Right now, its just an annoyance. How critical is SONY for repairs. I contacted them and they referred me to an authorized local repair center. They in turn said they'll charge me $125 to do a diagnostic which SONY will pay for "if approved". The repir guy has to take a picture and send it in. I'm concerned that its not bad enough right now and SONY wont approve the optical block repair. Should I wait a bit? How quickly does this problem spread?

It only took 2-3 weeks for mine to spread from the 2" high blue line at the bottom of the screen to a big blob that covered about 1/3 of the screen. Sony referred me to the closest authorized repair shop and I emailed them a couple of pictures. They called to say that an optical block had been ordered and set a date to come for the replacement. No cost to me at all.
I had replaced the bulb not to long before the blue blob started and with the new bulb and the new optical block my set looks like new again. I hadn't realized how much the picture had deteriorated over the 2 1/2 years I've had it (12,000+ viewing hours).

I just have mi optical block replace and looks
just like i have a new tv.
now i just need a new lamp mine has like 12.000 hours

I just have mi optical block replace and looks
just like i have a new tv.
now i just need a new lamp mine has like 12.000 hours

Yeah, you'll notice even more improvement after you change the bulb. With mine it was almost like going from SD to HD again after replacing both the optical block and the bulb. I had over 12,000 hours on mine too.

Yeah, you'll notice even more improvement after you change the bulb. With mine it was almost like going from SD to HD again after replacing both the optical block and the bulb. I had over 12,000 hours on mine too.

I just replaced the bulb 2 months ago and its significantly brighter. When they replay the optical block, will the picture improve also or just make the notorious "blue fog" go away? (Bought the set 12/04 - 12000+ hours)

with a new lamp like you have it should look as good as the day you bought it. Make sure it does before the tech leaves.

I just replaced the bulb 2 months ago and its significantly brighter. When they replay the optical block, will the picture improve also or just make the notorious "blue fog" go away? (Bought the set 12/04 - 12000+ hours)
You should also notice a significant improvement in the picture after your optical block is replaced. Like tdma said, it will look as good as it did when it was brand new.

You should also notice a significant improvement in the picture after your optical block is replaced. Like tdma said, it will look as good as it did when it was brand new.

So basically, in 2 years the TV will degrade to where it is now except for no blue fog? I wonder if the new OB has a longer life? Makes me wonder if LCD's degrade at the same rate...

the lamp degrades, the optcle block is a design flaw covered by extended warranty till dec. 08. With a good ob, the tv will look great till the lamp wares out

Do the "new" optical blocks degrade?

Got my new free optical block today for the 60XS955! With that and a new bulb, it's like having a new TV.

My TV (KDF60XS955) does not have the blue dots, etc...

Is this something that will definitely happen or that only some people have issues with? I know I can't get it changed to a "for sure good one" unless my TV shows signs of a bad one... or can i?

Dwaine

My TV (KDF60XS955) does not have the blue dots, etc...

Is this something that will definitely happen or that only some people have issues with? I know I can't get it changed to a "for sure good one" unless my TV shows signs of a bad one... or can i?

Dwaine

I think it will need to be symptomatic. How many hours on your set? Mine had 10,000.

The tech who fixed mine said he hasn't seen that many sets with this problem. BUT, it's obviously affecting a lot of people if Sony is offering free fixes.

I don't remember how many hours on the bulb...

Oh well - if not symptomatic then I guess I'm okay...

I'm experiencing blue fog I think as well and it's getting worse.I don't have an extended warranty so does that mean I have to pay out of pocket for an ob and if so how much can I anticipate spending? Mine almost looks like burn in across the bottom of the screen as I can see the HDNET image in the bottom corner of the screen while the screen is blue going from input to input.

Eventually it will get like this and unusable. This pic is a black srceen.

that is terrible. I have a KDF50-WE655. So far so good

I'm experiencing blue fog I think as well and it's getting worse.I don't have an extended warranty so does that mean I have to pay out of pocket for an ob and if so how much can I anticipate spending? Mine almost looks like burn in across the bottom of the screen as I can see the HDNET image in the bottom corner of the screen while the screen is blue going from input to input.
Sony has extended their warranty to cover ob replacement on 2004 models for the "blue fog/blob problem - I believe it's in effect until the end of 2008. If that's what you have the repair should be free. Check the Sony website or call them for details.

Sony has extended their warranty to cover ob replacement on 2004 models for the "blue fog/blob problem - I believe it's in effect until the end of 2008. If that's what you have the repair should be free. Check the Sony website or call them for details.

Thanks.I looked again and I'm pretty sure it's blue fog. Also I had the set calibrated shortly after I got it.Will a new ob mean I need to get it recalibrated?

I received a warrantee extesion card in the mail from Sears. My bulb just went out 2 days prior. I called and purchased the warrantee for $229 for 1 year, which includes a free service. Right after I signed up, I called the service dept and they mailed me a new bulb. I just replaced it and used the instruction on this forum to reset my lamp TM. I had 6,620 on my lamp. From what I've read, this is really good. The picture is really bright and the tv looks awesome! I hope this next bulb last just as long, but if not, that's ok, Sears will replace it within the year. Thanks to everyone who provided the info for the reset. By the way, good thing I looked up the manual online from Sony. I almost started taking apart the back of the tv to try and find the bulb. It was a simple replacement.

I'm experiencing blue fog I think as well and it's getting worse.I don't have an extended warranty so does that mean I have to pay out of pocket for an ob and if so how much can I anticipate spending? Mine almost looks like burn in across the bottom of the screen as I can see the HDNET image in the bottom corner of the screen while the screen is blue going from input to input.

They will install a new optical block free of charge. They've extended the warranties for this problem through 12/31/08. The website specifies the 2004 model year but mine is a 2005 and it was covered.

Mine started with a triangular blue spot in the lower right corner and then started spreading across the bottom of the screen. It then started spreading up into the middle of the screen. It was most noticeable when watching football, parts of the fields had a blue hue, the green background showed the problem best.

Here's the website:

http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/news-item.pl?mdl=KDF60WF655&news_id=206

Thanks.I looked again and I'm pretty sure it's blue fog. Also I had the set calibrated shortly after I got it.Will a new ob mean I need to get it recalibrated?

Your settings will not be affected by a new optical block. They are stored in flash memory on one of the boards. Probably will not need re-calibration. I would just get Avia or Video Essentials and check it. The tech will check it for proper operation and basic calibration.

Sony will schedule a service call with one of their contract service companies. SOP is for them to come out and verify the problem and THEN order the part and come out again to replace it. You can save time by just getting a tech on the phone and explaining what your set looks like. If you're sure it's the blue fog problem, tell them you've researched it on the web including Sony's website and that you're sure you have the problem. They may bag the first call and just order it and schedule a call when the part arrives, it only took 2 days for my part to arrive and they came out in about 5 days.

BTW, it would be over $1000 if Sony wasn't covering it.

I'm buying a multi-year extended warranty on my next set, got lucky this time, might not the next.

Your settings will not be affected by a new optical block. They are stored in flash memory on one of the boards. Probably will not need re-calibration. I would just get Avia or Video Essentials and check it. The tech will check it for proper operation and basic calibration.

Sony will schedule a service call with one of their contract service companies. SOP is for them to come out and verify the problem and THEN order the part and come out again to replace it. You can save time by just getting a tech on the phone and explaining what your set looks like. If you're sure it's the blue fog problem, tell them you've researched it on the web including Sony's website and that you're sure you have the problem. They may bag the first call and just order it and schedule a call when the part arrives, it only took 2 days for my part to arrive and they came out in about 5 days.

BTW, it would be over $1000 if Sony wasn't covering it.

I'm buying a multi-year extended warranty on my next set, got lucky this time, might not the next.

So my set is 3 years old, nearly, and after reading this lot I had the bulb replaced, under my CC extended warrenty. Only had about 2,600 hours on it but the bulb was starting to turn yellow, so I'm told.

My question is, although I don't see any of the blue mist forming, would it be worth getting the colour block changed from Sony?

Or would they even cover a "just in case" request?

Seggers

its been about 3 years since ive had this great TV set.
now im moving across country and have a question. im bringing this tv with me,
i have original box in excellent shape, and just going to put the tv back in, package it like oem did, and then have it shipped with rest of my stuff by truck common carrier from midwest to california... does anyone think it will or will not make it without damage?

should i open the tv and remove the light/lcd piece or somethign else and bring with me personally and reinstall when i arrive with the tv to its new home?

thanks for the tips in advance.

My 60xs955 made it just fine from Wisconsin to Arizona without doing anything special.

this is good to hear.

did you use the original boxing and styrofoam pieces? i still have all that, and was going to rewrap the tv, and put back just like i got it, and hope it to make it. all that bouncing around won't matter huh? When i received it, it was on a specialized carrier that had special air ride suspension as they carried a lot of other sensitive tvs, and other consumer goods etc. not sure if the moving company i chose (upack.com) would be as carefull.

thanks for the reply

Have the moving company pack it and unpack it at the other end and turn it on before you sign anything. They will have to fix if it is broken

I just replaced my bulb in May. Today I turn on my TV and the picture is very dark. All the settings were the same. Did I get a faulty bulb?? Can something else be the problem?? I have a warranty but this is the third thing to go wrong and I am extremely frustrated.

Well the tech was out today and replaced the ob. He claims the replacement is new and improved making it better than the original.The picture is very good so maybe it's true.
As a side note another thing he mentioned that I have to admit I don't do often enough is vacuum the back of the set.He said it should be done at least every few months and doing so can extend the life of the lamp.

So my set is 3 years old, nearly, and after reading this lot I had the bulb replaced, under my CC extended warrenty. Only had about 2,600 hours on it but the bulb was starting to turn yellow, so I'm told.

My question is, although I don't see any of the blue mist forming, would it be worth getting the colour block changed from Sony?

Or would they even cover a "just in case" request?

Seggers

Nope. Afraid the Opt. block will have to fail to get you free service.

Well the tech was out today and replaced the ob. He claims the replacement is new and improved making it better than the original.The picture is very good so maybe it's true.
As a side note another thing he mentioned that I have to admit I don't do often enough is vacuum the back of the set.He said it should be done at least every few months and doing so can extend the life of the lamp.


Talking from experience you will want to keep the back vacuumed clean to save on the thermal fuse. These TVs run hot and they need all the air they can get.

I have had two thermal fuses replaced at $350 a piece. Now I vacuum her out every month.

I bought the Sony Extended warranty and my set is 3 years old.

The bulb is still good, but everyone here says the bulbs degrade over time. If I want a new bulb, will Sony have to send out a repairman..or can I just call and request one to be shipped to me? Anyone try this with Sony?

I heard some other warranty providers just send them out on request.

Thanks!

Is there a way to see the actual frequency of a channel the TV is tuned into using the service menu?

I bought the Sony Extended warranty and my set is 3 years old.

The bulb is still good, but everyone here says the bulbs degrade over time. If I want a new bulb, will Sony have to send out a repairman..or can I just call and request one to be shipped to me? Anyone try this with Sony?

I heard some other warranty providers just send them out on request.

Thanks!

I think it would have to fail and they may want a tech to verify it. I didn't think bulbs were included in the Sony extended warranty. How many hours on it? I got 10,000 hours and 1700 cycles out of my original. I didn't get the extended warranty so I bought a spare after one year but didn't need it until 1.5 years after that.

I didn't know if it was cost-effective for them to send a tech out to verify a bulb replacement. That's why I was hoping someone with the Sony Warranty might respond. I wouldn't bother, but everyone keeps saying here how the newer bulbs look so much better than an older one.