The Official "PIO 4312/4304" Thread!!! [Text View] - Page 2

bmott

05-02-05, 07:14 PM

Well i don't know how much truth is in this but i have read that: Makes me thinkg i should stick to componenent.

"Need to choose between Component Video and DVI?
Here are the facts...

One of the most common questions we get is whether or not a DVI connection is superior to a Component Video connection. The definitive answer is, "Well, it depends...".

First off, let's talk about the difference between Component Video and DVI. Even though component video is used on many digital sources (e.g. DVD, HDTV, etc.), the signal itself is analog. DVI, on the other hand is digital. There are PLENTY of salesman out there that will tell you DVI is superior because it is digital. This is simply not the case.

The superiority of DVI over Component Video actually has to do with what type of TV (or display) you are running to. Simply put, if your display uses a digital display technology, then DVI will yield superior performance over Component Video. If your TV is analog, though, the performance of DVI will be identical to Component Video.

OK, so how do you tell if your TV is digital or analog? Well, the salesman would tell you that all HDTV and HDTV-ready TV's are digital, but this is simply not true. HDTV signals are, in fact, digital. However, most TV's sold today (even HDTV's) are actually analog.

There are only two types of TV's that are truly digital. These are based on either DLP (Digital Light Processing) or LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon, also called D-ILA or HD-ILA). EVERY other type of TV is actually analog. This includes Plasma, LCD, or CRT (standard rear-projection).

So, unless your TV is DLP or LCoS, component video and DVI will look identical. To take this a step further, DVI might actually look worse to you, since many TV's with DVI inputs disable all picture controls (e.g. brightness, contrast, etc.) when using a DVI signal.

OK, so why do digital TV's benefit from DVI? The difference has to do with signal conversion. Let's say that you are using a DVD Player with a DVI output and your TV is a 56" DLP. If you were using component video cables in this example, the signal would have to be converted to analog (to use the analog component video connection), then it would have to be converted back to digital to be displayed (since DLP is a digital display technology). Every time you convert a signal from digital to analog (or vice versa) you take a small performance hit. However, if you were running DVI (digital), the signal could stay digital throughout the entire connection. Thus, you would not lose any performance due to unnecessary conversions.

Bottom line, if you are using an analog television (e.g. ANY Plasma, LCD, or CRT), then our Ultimate Component Video Cable will absolutely work perfectly for you. If, however, your TV is digital (e.g. DLP or LCoS ONLY) then using our Ultimate DVI Cable will yield noticeably better performance."

This is brought to you from the guys at cobalt cable

Originally posted by SteveHoltam
The only reason I would perfer a HDMI switching receiver would be because these TV's only have one digital input. Thats good for one HD receiver, but now here comes the new HD DVD players, and I would bet they are going to have digital outputs as will the new Xbox 2 coming out this year. That is three digital outputs looking at my single input...

Its not a big issue today, but its going to be an issue by the end of the year. Thats one reason I am not going to upgrade my audio receiver until I can get one with digital switching for less then $1,000

The 5805 is an awesome device! If only money was not an object!!!

Steve

kdb209

05-02-05, 07:28 PM

Originally posted by bmott
Well i don't know how much truth is in this but i have read that: Makes me thinkg i should stick to componenent.

"Need to choose between Component Video and DVI?
Here are the facts...

One of the most common questions we get is whether or not a DVI connection is superior to a Component Video connection. The definitive answer is, "Well, it depends...".

First off, let's talk about the difference between Component Video and DVI. Even though component video is used on many digital sources (e.g. DVD, HDTV, etc.), the signal itself is analog. DVI, on the other hand is digital. There are PLENTY of salesman out there that will tell you DVI is superior because it is digital. This is simply not the case.

The superiority of DVI over Component Video actually has to do with what type of TV (or display) you are running to. Simply put, if your display uses a digital display technology, then DVI will yield superior performance over Component Video. If your TV is analog, though, the performance of DVI will be identical to Component Video.

OK, so how do you tell if your TV is digital or analog? Well, the salesman would tell you that all HDTV and HDTV-ready TV's are digital, but this is simply not true. HDTV signals are, in fact, digital. However, most TV's sold today (even HDTV's) are actually analog.

There are only two types of TV's that are truly digital. These are based on either DLP (Digital Light Processing) or LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon, also called D-ILA or HD-ILA). EVERY other type of TV is actually analog. This includes Plasma, LCD, or CRT (standard rear-projection).

So, unless your TV is DLP or LCoS, component video and DVI will look identical. To take this a step further, DVI might actually look worse to you, since many TV's with DVI inputs disable all picture controls (e.g. brightness, contrast, etc.) when using a DVI signal.

OK, so why do digital TV's benefit from DVI? The difference has to do with signal conversion. Let's say that you are using a DVD Player with a DVI output and your TV is a 56" DLP. If you were using component video cables in this example, the signal would have to be converted to analog (to use the analog component video connection), then it would have to be converted back to digital to be displayed (since DLP is a digital display technology). Every time you convert a signal from digital to analog (or vice versa) you take a small performance hit. However, if you were running DVI (digital), the signal could stay digital throughout the entire connection. Thus, you would not lose any performance due to unnecessary conversions.

Bottom line, if you are using an analog television (e.g. ANY Plasma, LCD, or CRT), then our Ultimate Component Video Cable will absolutely work perfectly for you. If, however, your TV is digital (e.g. DLP or LCoS ONLY) then using our Ultimate DVI Cable will yield noticeably better performance."

This is brought to you from the guys at cobalt cable

Sounds like BS by people who want to sell you expensive Component video cables.

Plasmas and LCDs (and any other fixed-pixel display like DLP) are most definitely digital.

SteveHoltam

05-02-05, 09:00 PM

I agree with the above poster, BS.

Also, it fells to mention or address the "REAL" reason of the digital connections, COPY PROTECTION!!!! Currently every satellites HD receiver has the ability to down-rez the component outputs maximum resolution. Today you can get 720p and 1080i, but at the flick of a switch, the most the component outputs would give you would be 480p. I am willing to bet $$$ that the new HD DVD's will do the exact same thing. Hollywood has thier say in all these technolgies and they have demanded a copyprotection system which is HDCP.

To ignore this looming future is foolish. DVI is the future. Like it or not.

Steve

pbenjamin

05-03-05, 01:56 AM

Originally posted by bmott
So, unless your TV is DLP or LCoS, component video and DVI will look identical.

This part, at least, is nonsense. The SA8300HD has both component and HDMI outputs. Connecting both to the PDP-4304 and putting the display into split screen mode, I was able to do a side by side comparison when first setting up the display. Of the group of people in the room, there was no consensus on which was better, but the one thing everyone agreed on was that they were clearly not identical.

bmott

05-03-05, 11:58 AM

Originally posted by pbenjamin
This part, at least, is nonsense. The SA8300HD has both component and HDMI outputs. Connecting both to the PDP-4304 and putting the display into split screen mode, I was able to do a side by side comparison when first setting up the display. Of the group of people in the room, there was no consensus on which was better, but the one thing everyone agreed on was that they were clearly not identical.

I don't think thats a good comparison. If you do the dual screen with the same source they look different as well. so it would have to be a full screen side by side comparison.

I haven't played much with the HDMI input on mine yet because i need to get a DVI to HDMI headed cable first, but on my Sony HD Wega CRT i could not tell a difference between DVI and Component from my HD box. ( Both are high quality cables (monster dvi and cobalt component)

dangerousdavid

05-03-05, 12:27 PM

I got the D*TV HD box. The picture looks great. It has outputs for 480, 720 and 1080 via the HDMI.

I currently have it set at 1080 but 720 looks the same to me. Does this matter or is the scaler doing the output?

pbenjamin

05-03-05, 01:10 PM

Originally posted by bmott
I haven't played much with the HDMI input on mine yet because i need to get a DVI to HDMI headed cable first, but on my Sony HD Wega CRT i could not tell a difference between DVI and Component from my HD box. ( Both are high quality cables (monster dvi and cobalt component)

The was on a CRT which is analog.

SteveHoltam

05-03-05, 02:00 PM

dangerousdavid, the tv can only display 720p max, so yeah, your at the mercy of the scaler. I did my own tests and to me, leaving the HD box at 1080i seemed to give me a higher image quality. Im sure this would change depending on the HD source being either 720p or 10801 though.

Try different source material at differnet resoltions and see whats looks the sharpest for you.

Steve

bmott

05-03-05, 06:02 PM

WEll remember these displays are 768P so you are upcomverting from 720p or downconverting from 1080i.

I have mine set to 720P output on my HD box.

So you guys think its worth it to get a hdmi/dvi cable so i can hook up my hd box with it instead of component. That would leave me another input for my second dvd player, but mostly im worried about the qaulity. Is it better

pbenjamin

05-03-05, 07:26 PM

On the SA cable boxes, you have the choice of "pass through", which allows you to pass whatever the source is (480i, 720p, 1080i) to the monitor and have it do the conversions. Does what I am hearing here imply that some STBs force you to pick one format and they convert everthing to that?

SteveHoltam

05-04-05, 02:07 AM

Yeah, most DirectTv and I think Dishnet receivers have a user selectable "default" resolution. There are a few exceptions, and even some with a physical switch on the back, which is the worst design. My HD Tivo is easy to flip between them, and with a nice HD frame paused, it makes it easier to compare them to each other. Pass through would be nice, but its all going to end up at 768p anyway I guess :-)

Steve

hardwired

05-04-05, 08:34 AM

Is the Costco 4312 using the same plasma glass as the new Pioneer PDP-4350HD? Beside the lack of a media box and any tuners, how does the picture quality compare to the 50HD model? I love the new Pioneer 50HD series but the $5500 pricetag for the 4350HD and $7000 for the 5050HD is obscene.

Shopping-TVs

05-04-05, 09:16 AM

Originally posted by hardwired
Is the Costco 4312 using the same plasma glass as the new Pioneer PDP-4350HD?

I called Pioneer about this and they told me no. The 4350 uses a similar glass as the Pioneer elite. I ended up ordering a 4350 after weighing all the different options (glass, media receiver, additional connections, etc). The $5500 is the list price for the 4350. You can easily get $1400 - $1500 off from one of the online dealers.

hardwired

05-04-05, 10:31 AM

I looked at the online option but unfortunately even at that the 4350HD was a grand more than the Panny 42PX50U locally. :(

waltaz

05-05-05, 12:42 AM

Originally posted by gowens7228
le penseur and all!

i have aggregated the ISF calibration settings from this forum and noted the factory settings using le penseur's formatted document. now it is all in one place. enjoy!

--------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE:
Numbers before the slash are ISF Calibrated settings for COMPONENT INPUT #5 found on this forum. After the slash are original factory settings for the
same input. This should take < 15 minutes and really is quite easy.

SERVICE MENU:
Make sure the 4304 is first set to the desired input (INPUT 5 in my
case). With the 4304 in STANDBY, press DISPLAY on the remote (just
press, do not hold). Wait 3 seconds, then press LEFT, UP, LEFT, RIGHT
and POWER (on the remote). If done correctly, the 4304 turns on and the
INFORMATION page is displayed. Press MUTE to move through the top-level
menus (which are INFORMATION, FUNCTION CHECK, COMMON ADJ, OPTION,
INITIALIZE). Press the DOWN key to move through individual sub-menus.

1. Make sure that the INFORMATION screen shows that the settings are
for INPUT 5 (on the top right, it should show a field beginning with
"IN5-").
NOTE: While scrolling through the submenu settings in the following
steps (e.g., "RY GAIN <=> ..."), use the LEFT/RIGHT
buttons on your remote while scrolling through these fields,
to change the values (if that's what you want to do :-))!

2. Press MUTE to advance to the INDIVIDUAL ADJ. menu.
Cycle through the settings, by pressing DOWN:
RY GAIN <=> : 128/134
GY GAIN <=> : 117/122
BY GAIN <=> : 134/131

3. Press MUTE to advance to the COMMON ADJ. menu; this should show
RGB 1 (+) as the menu item (if it doesn't, UP/DOWN will cycle through
all the choices).
(a) On RGB 1 (+), hit SET to enter the sub menu (COMMON ADJ. will
change to show COMMON-RGB1)
Cycle through the settings, by pressing DOWN:
AD MAIN R GAIN <=> : 187/209
AD MAIN G GAIN <=> : 178/193
AD MAIN B GAIN <=> : 179/194
AD MAIN R OFFSET <=> : 129/127
AD MAIN G OFFSET <=> : 162/162
AD MAIN B OFFSET <=> : 128/128
Press SET to exit.
(b) Press DOWN to go to RGB 2 (+); press SET to enter the sub menu:

AD MAIN CONTRAST <=> : 081/081
Press SET to exit.
(c) Press DOWN to go to PANEL1 (+); press SET to enter the sub menu.
Cycle through the settings, by pressing DOWN (no changes to here):
X-SUS U1 <=> : 128/128
X-SUS U2 <=> : 129/129
X-SUS D1 <=> : 128/128
X-SUS D2 <=> : 128/128
Y-SUS U1 <=> : 128/128
Y-SUS U2 <=> : 129/129
Y-SUS D1 <=> : 128/128
Y-SUS D2 <=> : 128/128
Y-SUS D3 <=> : 128/128
Y-SUS D4 <=> : 128/128
VLT-SUS <=> : 107/107
VLT-OFS <=> : 157/157
Press SET to exit.
(d) Press DOWN to go to PANEL2 (+); press SET to enter the sub menu.
Cycle through the settings, by pressing DOWN:
PANEL R HIGH <=> : 247/241
PANEL G HIGH <=> : 248/249
PANEL B HIGH <=> : 256/256
PANEL R LOW <=> : 508/512
PANEL G LOW <=> : 511/512
PANEL B LOW <=> : 509/512
ABL LEVEL <=> : 117/123
Press SET to exit.

4. Switch unit off (i.e., place it in standby) to exit the service menu.
I'm trying to finalize my ISF and user settings for Inputs 2 and 5. I'm finally ready to go into the service menu, but have not yet applied the above ISF calibration settings. Given the above settings for Input 5, I have the following questions:
1. Once I apply the settings noted above, will I need to then change the user settings that I've previously settled on for Input 5 (pre-ISF)?
2. Would the above settings also be applicable for Input 2 - HDMI? Or has someone got a different set of ISF calibration settings for that? If so, what are they?
3. Based on the above, what are your post-ISF user settings for both inputs?

I guess to net it all out, I'm looking for the following (don't know if there's a consensus):
- ISF calibration settings for Input 2 - HDMI (HD STB, in my case)
- Subsequent user settings for Input 2
- ISF calibration settings for Input 5 - Component (DVD player)
- Subsequent user settings for Input 2

Thanks a ton,

Walt

waltaz

05-05-05, 12:09 PM

Bump...

waltaz

05-05-05, 11:29 PM

Another bump for the settings...

xmltok

05-06-05, 12:13 AM

In response to your questions:

1. Possibly, these might change slightly when you adjust the service menu changes, but by a small amount.
2. Yes. No.
3. Defaults, I have changed all of mine back to 0's except for the sharpness to -1 when something is too noisey for DNR.

Something that may be leading to some of the confusion; the service menu settings we are talking about effect all of the inputs. They are mainly to adjust gray levels in brights and darks. There is still seperate settings for the component inputs, but these being analog I expect you would find different settings depending on what you have hooked up to them. Try to match your HDMI.

soi_01

05-07-05, 12:03 PM

Noticed on the COSTCO web site they are selling # 724601 & Item # 704312
I'm getting ready to pick up the 704312 when I saw the #724601. Anybody know how the 704312 differs from the 724601? Should I still get the 704312?

Mike

wabkab

05-07-05, 12:53 PM

The specs look better on the 4312. This may be the Costco site's fault. If not the other model may be an older generation based on the lower specs. If somehow the 4601 is a new generation, then the new pioneers have advantages over last years. Either way, find out which model has a the newest generation panel(not just new to Costco) and consider going with that one. One caveat, the 4312 is overwhelmingly loved by their owners(including me).

soi_01

05-07-05, 06:32 PM

Picked up a 4312 today. Looks great even w/o a picture.
Right now using coaxial comcast cable w/ analog outputs. HD comcast due Weds. Trying to figure out how to connect to 4312. Cable box also has some sort of multipin s video. Any suggestions for connecting greatly appreciated.
Going to radio shack to see if they casn help.

Mike

somno

05-07-05, 06:42 PM

I have been enjoying by PIO 4312. I do have a question about blanking out the screen while listening to music.

My AV reciever (a Rotel) needs the monitor to be on in order to connect with the cable box (SA with Charter). I often listen to one of the music channels and do not want my monitor screen to be on but if I turn off the monitor the reciever refuses to connect to the channel and I get no audio.

Is there some way to leave the PIO 4312 on but just blank out the screen so that I can listen to music without putting wear on the screen?

soi_01

05-07-05, 06:59 PM

using 4312 speakers but no soumd from dvd. pirates of the caribean dvd displays black bars at top and bottom. want to minimize burn in. can I make it full screen or do something else to limit burn in? even w/ 480i dvd it looks good.

Mike

faldoc

05-07-05, 10:15 PM

I was torn between the Costco Panny PX25U/P and this 4312 and the Pio won me over. I just set it up and I love it! Now I have to upgrade my STB, D*Tv box, receiver, cables, DVD player... where does it end????

soi_01

05-07-05, 10:22 PM

They wont let it end. . . It'll never end. . .

Reading the documentation I thought DVDs displayed at 480p, but mine displays a 480i. Have an old Comcast cable box w/ coax and video out.
Can't figure out how to input the coax. Comcast HD is due to be installed
Weds. Audio is pretty good Pioneer audio, IMO.

waltaz

05-07-05, 11:40 PM

Originally posted by somno
I have been enjoying by PIO 4312. I do have a question about blanking out the screen while listening to music.

My AV reciever (a Rotel) needs the monitor to be on in order to connect with the cable box (SA with Charter). I often listen to one of the music channels and do not want my monitor screen to be on but if I turn off the monitor the reciever refuses to connect to the channel and I get no audio.

Is there some way to leave the PIO 4312 on but just blank out the screen so that I can listen to music without putting wear on the screen?
Just change to an unused input, like Input 4, then listen to whatever with the blank screen.

somno

05-07-05, 11:46 PM

Just change to an unused input, like Input 4, then listen to whatever with the blank screen.

Thanks waltaz,

That was much to easy a solution. Guess I should have thought of that myself.

wabkab

05-08-05, 12:42 AM

You won't get 480p until you connect with component cables(or HDMI if the DVD unit outputs that). Since you'll need your component input 5 for DVD, make sure Comcrap hooks you up with HDMI for TV.

soi_01

05-08-05, 09:41 AM

Using input 5 for dvd using component cables, still 480i.
Watched Pirates of the Caribean DVD last night,
Couldn't get rid of black borders at top and bottom of screen.
Earlier, I had been able to use "zoom" to fill screen. Wenbt through menus and discovered orbiter, whicjh I enabled. Read in this thread that it's important to avoid burn-in during the first hundred hours. Why to sources such as Comedy Central still have the large logos = burn-in, if I understand this correctly.

Mike

wabkab

05-08-05, 09:53 AM

You can avoid those channels in the first several hour if you want to, although I didn't and I had no problems. Regarding your dvd, since you're already using component, the only thing left is that you don't have your dvd player set to output progressive scan. It's either in the dvd setup menu or a slide switch on the back of the player.(unless your player is not progressive scan). Once you do that, you'll be using progressive scan. If you need another component input, read the manual as you can assign the RGB in the pioneer menu and use a converter cable. That'll give you another component input in case you need it for you HD box. I think most hd boxes have HDMI out now, but I use component because I use my Denon 2805 to switch everything as it up-converts all my stuff to component. Trying to keep it simple for the family. Haven't even tried the HDMI, but very satisfied with component for HD.
Good luck and let us know how it works.

wabkab

05-08-05, 10:01 AM

Using component inputs or HDMI for that matter, will leave you less options for changing aspect ratios since they are source driven. I think the pio only allows for Cinema and one other mode when viewing progressive scan(anything greater than 480i). Change your sidebar option to gray in the pio menu and don't sweat the burn in issue too much. Read some earlier threads from Kenlong and Waltaz for some guidance for settings.
Enjoy!

soi_01

05-08-05, 10:09 AM

I don't want to take a chance hanging the 4312 on the wall w/ original lathe/plaster. Any suggestions for complimentary stands?

soi_01

05-08-05, 10:39 AM

Will find how to change top bars to gray and review burn in messages and upgrade my 5 y/o 480i dvd player to one with progressive scan. Recmmendations for good progressive scan dvd players players appreciated. Ideally, one that hold multiple dvds. Alos. will do a google search.

ravmazda

05-08-05, 10:48 AM

I have the Onkyo 770 HTIB and the Onkyo DV-CP702 DVD player (lists around $200) with progressive scan, holds 6 discs, also plays CDs, and it works great with the Pio 4304 PDP. I have mine hooked up to the VGA input using a VGA to component cable adapter that I got from Parts Express (link below). Picture is so good it looks like HD content.

http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&DID=7&Partnumber=181-700

wabkab

05-08-05, 12:03 PM

Yes that VGA converter cable scenario was what I was referring to wrongly as the RGB. Search ecoustics.com editorial review sections for dvd players. The new yamaha universal(plays SACD and DVD audio) was reviewed recently. I have a toshiba progressive scan universal 5 disc changer that works flawlessly with my 4312 and was less than 200 retail about a year ago. You'll have many good options including players that upconvert to 720p via HDMI ala Sony/Samsung/Bravo..others...

wabkab

05-08-05, 12:10 PM

Make sure to get those inputs that you are using off the "Dynamic" setting and go to "User" mode. Make the few adjustments such as Waltaz's settings. The manual is very brief, but functional and you will find the panel protection information section pretty well laid out. You can keep your "Energy Saving" mode on "standard". Also, I was a little worried about the increased contrast recommendations from the earlier posts, but I have had mine +10 without any burn in issues. That's even from the first 20 hours or so of mine being set up.

wabkab

05-08-05, 12:19 PM

Ps. Sometimes, even if you've set your panel for gray bars instead of black, you'll still get black on source driven feeds that send 4:3 content in a widescreen or letterboxed mode. Those you can't do anything about except what the panel will let you which I think is maybe Cinema(which helps some) and Zoom which distorts things. The black bars shouldn't hurt anything for 2 hour movies, etc. Just change to a full screen channel after that for a while.

faldoc

05-08-05, 12:39 PM

I picked up my Pioneer 4312 at Costco yesterday, and have SD D*TV, and SD TW cable as well as my cheap Apex progressive DVD player hooked up to the various inputs.
I found a single dead green pixel up about 4 inches from the top which I have to strain to see so I am not hauling this back.
Very nice picture, even with SD except for the crappy signal we get from TW.
Now I have to go about ordering the HD stuff from D*TV.

Question: is a $25 cable really all you need to convert component video to VGA? Or do you have to get a $100 converter box too? It would be nice to be able to use those other 2 inputs.

wabkab

05-08-05, 01:00 PM

Cable is it!

soi_01

05-08-05, 03:12 PM

Just picked up a samsung dvd-hd850 progressive scan hdmi dvd player.
Followed the hdmi instructions (I think) but can't get a picture from dvd player.
Sey up options are are blank. Disconnected hdmi connected then plugged in same component connections I was using w/ 480i dvd player, but get a low quality reddish picture. Can't access controls to configure p scan dvd player. Probably doing something dumb. Any ideas, excluding needed brain transplant?

soi_01

05-08-05, 03:57 PM

soi_01> but get a low quality reddish picture. Can't access controls to configure p scan dvd player. Probably doing something dumb. Any ideas, excluding needed brain transplant"

component input 5 - 4312 displays no signal input, but samsung dvd player is connected. From the DVD manual - Press the input selector on your tv remote control until the Component signal from the DVD player appears on the TV screen. 4312 displays no input signal and cannot configure the DVD player using on screen menus.

Do progressive scan dvd players require higher grade compnent cables?

soi_01

05-08-05, 04:14 PM

Selecting the right input source fixed it. I'm looking at a very impressive picture without changing any settings. My apologies for taking up bandwidth.

soi_01

05-08-05, 04:23 PM

4312 manual states 480p for dvds. samsung has settings for 720p dvd and 480p dvd. Will 720p dvd setting work with the 4312?

wabkab

05-08-05, 06:30 PM

Through the HDMI only.(for dvd of course)

wabkab

05-08-05, 06:39 PM

Just a quick chill signal. Sounds like you're doing a lot of upgrading, etc., very quickly. I think if you'd have checked in to the upconverting DVD players a little more you would have found that Sony's model and maybe another brands are getting a lot better reviews/recommendation over the Sammy(not much price difference either). Search these forums for info, as there is a ton. Not that your Sammy isn't excellent, but you may find something that does everything that you want, better for the same or less.

soi_01

05-08-05, 10:49 PM

Best Buy didn't have the Sony in stock. Picked up the sammy 850 just to use hdmi. I'm not married to it. Using 720p watching Step Into the Liquid DVD. Wow. On Weds Comcast will install HD Comcast which use the single HDMI, then I'll have to find sometning else for DVD input. ravmazda suggested component to vga cable for the DVD. Guess I'll do that but open to other suggestions. Really like the one cable HDMI hook up.

wabkab

05-08-05, 11:31 PM

We'll there are some HDMI switching A/V Receivers out this year. Maybe there is such a thing as just an HDMI switcher?
But, if you've got Comcast box to HDMI, then component input 5 for DVD, then what else do you need that won't be adequate with Svideo input or a composite. Oh yeah, I forgot, no 720p from dvd without HDMI. Need that switcher or settle for 480p DVD.
Keep us posted on how it works.

wabkab

05-08-05, 11:36 PM

What would really be practical is an up-converting AVR to HDMI that would pass 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i. I'm doing that now, but only with component. I think the AVRs out now switch HDMI, but don't up-convert. I could be wrong(hopefully I am).

SteveHoltam

05-09-05, 01:34 AM

I think most of the HDMI switching AVR receivers DO upconvert the signals. That is a nice feature, but at a big cost. Some even use the Faroudja chip sets! Still out of my price range, but a handful of new ones are coming out soon, and Im sure in another year there will be some nice ones for about $1,000.

Steve

gongura

05-09-05, 03:05 AM

Why do I get the picture in the bottom right of the TV when I select 760P or 1080i from my Sammy 850HD. The 480/720P versions work pretty good, its only when I select the 760P or 1080i. I am using a DVI->HDMI ocnverter cable to connect my Sammy to the Pio. Using the component inputs for my HD receiver.

ravmazda

05-09-05, 06:04 AM

As I stated earlier, the 15 pin VGA adapter to component cable works great- no extra hardware is required since the PIO does the work here under the menu you choose either component or VGA for this input. I really don't see the need for upscaling DVD players with the PIO since this PDP does an awesome job of upconverting the 480p to its native panel resolution. With upscaling DVD players, you let the DVD player do the conversion, but I would just let the display take care of this until we have true HD DVD players. You would be hard pressed to tell the difference between HD and DVDs on my set and even Comcast OnDemands @ 480i look almost as good as DVDs. Analog SD looks just OK but that is not the fault of the display but the source.

I have mine setup as follows-

Comcast/Motorola HD with DVR w/ DVI to HDMI cable
Onkyo CP702 6 disc DVD player with Component to VGA cable
XBox with MS HD cables to Component input
All sound by fiber optic to Onkyo 770 HTIB and also analog inputs directly into TV for newscasts, etc.
Logitech Harmony 659 remote to make life easier on wife/kids/me.

soi_01

05-09-05, 11:51 AM

ravmazda, Comcast is going to install HD cable on Weds. Will they ba able to setup DVI to HDMI cable or can they setup cable HDMI To 4312 HDMI?
Riight now the samsung hd850 dvd player is sending a 720p signal to the 4312. From your post it sounds like I should change that to a 480i signal from dvd player to 4312. When I get a component to VGA cable which input do I use on the 4312?

waltaz

05-09-05, 11:59 AM

Some random comments:
1. When I got my 4312, I also got a new DVD player since my old one didn't have component outputs. After alot of research in the DVD part of this forum, I went with a Sony 775. It is a single disc player, but there is a multi-disc version of it - the 975, I think. I have it outputting at 480i and it's great. The Pio does the conversion work.
2. My cable is from Cox. I have their HD service and a SA8300HD STB. It is connected to Input 2 via HDMI.
3. I was unable to get into the service menu yesterday. I tried the sequence of button presses from standby, but it only gave me a blank screen. Thoughts?
4. Does anybody know if there is any negative impact with having direct, but filtered (through a sun screen/shade), sunlight shining on the glass?

Walt

theueck

05-09-05, 12:56 PM

I agree with all who are using 480i settings on their DVD player's. The Pio scaler is excellent, let it do the conversions. I get fewer jaggies with the DVD player set to 480i than I do with it set to 480p.

Walt: Sunlight will not hurt the screen, only too much heat.

Ken

wabkab

05-09-05, 01:17 PM

Interesting, I have a JVC DVD recorder using Svideo @ 480i and a Toshiba player with Component @ 480p and the Toshiba is superior. It's probably the Component input? I'll try it at 480i and see.

yizzung

05-09-05, 02:18 PM

I picked up this plasma yesterday and I too have just scheduled Comcast to install on this Friday. (Getting the HD/DVR. I assume they install the Moto box here in Nor Cal?)

Anyway, can someone chime in on what to expect when Comcast does an install? Do I need to go out and buy any additional cables or will the install guy have the right stuff for optimal viewing on this Pioneer? I also have a Panny progressive scan w/ component & a DirecTivo (SD) w/ S-video.

Thanks!

ravmazda

05-09-05, 05:26 PM

I have the PIO 4312 and the only cable that Comcast had was component or DVI. I went to Radio Shack and purchased a 6 ft. DVI to HDMI cable, which was $99. I use my DVD on input 1 (VGA) and be sure to go to setup on the panel and pick component for input 1 since it is not a computer. Comcast set the box (HD-DVR) to 1080i output with 480i passthrough on 4:3 (non HD content).

soi_01

05-09-05, 11:21 PM

Comcasst is due here on Weds. If I can't get a DVI to HDMI cable from RS by then they'll setup using component? Will I still get 1080i or 720p from cable hd? Can I use the hdmi cable later w/o another visit from comcast?

wabkab

05-09-05, 11:27 PM

You'll get HD(1080i and 720p) via component also. Some say it's just as good. I don't use mine, but I thought the 4312 package included a DVI to HDMI cable?

yizzung

05-10-05, 12:39 AM

The only cable that came with mine was the power cable... No DVI/HDMI cable in my boxes. I'll snag a DVI/HDMI cable before my install on Friday. I think what I'm hearing is that the comcast motorola box only has DVI. If it has HDMI, someone let me know before I fork out the cash. :)

I also read that since DVI/HDMI is digital that it doesn't make sense to pay extra $$ for gold plated, etc. Anyone experimented with 'affordable' HDMI cables on this set (or any other HD)?

ravmazda

05-10-05, 06:16 AM

Comcast HD boxes and DVR boxes only have DVI and component outputs. They will supply a DVI cable or component but they do not have HDMI cables or DVI to HDMI cables. If you want to use the HDMI input, you will need to purchase a DVI to HDMI cable. I bought mine at RS, but you may find it cheaper online. I agree that digital is digital and any decent quality cable should be fine. The RS cable is gold plated but not very thick, but the PQ is excellent. You could also let Comcast hookup via component and buy the cable later and install yourself. The Comcast tech used my DVI to HDMI cable.

I did notice that if you set their remote to turn everything on at once, if the tuner is on a 480i channel initially, the PIO panel may not sync right and you need to repower the tuner. Either turn the panel on first then the tuner or tune to a HD channel first or right after powering on the PIO. I have a harmony remote and have mine set to go to a HD channel right after powering everything up.

For best PQ, set the Comcast Motorola box at TV type = 16:9, 1080i output with 480i 4:3 passthrough. Do this by turning on the PIO and turn off the tuner. Press the menu button on the tuner and you will be in the setting menu that will allow you to do this. Repower the tuner and you are set. The Comcast tech should do this for you, but you can change the settings yourself if you like. These settings will allow your PIO to do all/most of the scaling instead of the tuner box. Digital cable and HD look great and SD is acceptable. It will also automatically stretch SD content to 16:9, but if you want 4:3 aspect ratio, set the PIO screen size to 4:3 and you will have grey side bars. HD 4:3 channels are broadcast in 16:9 so you still have black side bars.

Let me know if you have any questions.

robglasser

05-10-05, 12:04 PM

Originally posted by yizzung
The only cable that came with mine was the power cable... No DVI/HDMI cable in my boxes. I'll snag a DVI/HDMI cable before my install on Friday. I think what I'm hearing is that the comcast motorola box only has DVI. If it has HDMI, someone let me know before I fork out the cash. :)

I also read that since DVI/HDMI is digital that it doesn't make sense to pay extra $$ for gold plated, etc. Anyone experimented with 'affordable' HDMI cables on this set (or any other HD)?

If you need a cable, got check out pacific cable. You can get an HDMI, DVI, or HDMI -> DVI cable for a fraction of what you'd pay for "monster" type cables in retail outlets. I've bought a few cables from them and they work great. My HDMI -> DVI cable I am using today looks identical to the Monster cable, thick solid cable, gold plated, and about a quarter of the price.

kdb209

05-10-05, 01:59 PM

Originally posted by yizzung
The only cable that came with mine was the power cable... No DVI/HDMI cable in my boxes. I'll snag a DVI/HDMI cable before my install on Friday. I think what I'm hearing is that the comcast motorola box only has DVI. If it has HDMI, someone let me know before I fork out the cash. :)

I also read that since DVI/HDMI is digital that it doesn't make sense to pay extra $$ for gold plated, etc. Anyone experimented with 'affordable' HDMI cables on this set (or any other HD)?

Don't waste your money on an expensive HDMI cable. I'm using the free (and pretty cheaply made) HDMI cable that came with the Panny S97 upconverting DVD player and the picture is excellent.

soi_01

05-10-05, 04:20 PM

Anybody done a comparison between Comcast HD using component and Comcast HD using DVI to HDMI?

soi_01

05-10-05, 04:25 PM

Anybody done a comparison between Comcast HD using component and Comcast HD using DVI to HDMI?

gmwedding

05-10-05, 08:13 PM

I tested both Component and DVI-to-HDMI cables with the Pioneer PDP-4304 Plasma display (Costco 4312 kit) and the Motorola DCT6412 STB/DVR.

Both provided excellent HD picture quality with little or no noticeable difference. I now use the DVI-to-HDMI cable for the STB-TV connection and the Component cable for the DVD-TV connection. However, it should be noted that the SD (standard definition) picture quality through the DCT 6412 varies greatly from analog channel-to-channel, and it is vastly inferior to the picture quality from Comcast's first digital STB.

Surround Sound audio connections for the STB/DVR and the DVD Player are through a Pioneer VSX 912k AV Receiver (also recently purchased through Costco) using two Monster Digital Fiber Optic Cables (ILSR-2M InterLink LightSpeed Reference).

OUR HT SYSTEM
HDTV: Pioneer PDP-4304 43-inch Plasma
COMPUTER/DVD-R: Apple PowerBook G4-1.2GHz/Matshita UJ-816 (Mac mini upgrade planned)
AV RECEIVER: Pioneer VSX-912K 6:1 A/V Receiver
STB/DVR: Motorola DCT 6412 Digital Video Recorder
DVD: Sony DVP-NS725P DVD/MP3 Player
VCR: Sony SLV-N900 Video Cassette Recorder/Player

MUSIC: Apple iTunes, iPods, networked Macs, Ethernet (10/100), Airport/Airport Express (WiFi 802.11b/g), hard wired to Pioneer AV Receiver and speaker system

SPEAKERS: 6:1 (7:1 Virtual) Surround
Monitor Audio Radius 225 (Center)
Boston CR77 (2-Mains)
Boston A60 Series II (2-Surrounds)
KLH HT9900 (2-Bookshelf Rears)
KLH HT9900 (Passive Subwoofer)

faldoc

05-10-05, 09:55 PM

I have a question about a setup such as this 4312 montor and a Pio 1014 or similar receiver:

if you have HD DTV going into the monitor HDMI input, and a HD cable box going into the Component via the receiver, can you program the receiver's universal remote to change the monitor input and the receiver output at the same time without using the monitor remote? I like to switch back and forth between sources a lot without handling all the remotes.

kdb209

05-10-05, 10:14 PM

faldoc

05-10-05, 10:35 PM

I hope if any remote can do it, it is a Pioneer 1014 receiver's remote. However, I have assumed things before and been wrong.

sachinh

05-11-05, 01:54 PM

soi_01

05-11-05, 03:44 PM

Comcast HD installed today. Cable guy unfamilar with advanced settings on the Motorola HD\DVR box. Right now using RS Gold component cables to PIO.
POI only uses native input signals but doesn't convert them. eg, 480i from old dvd player, 1080i or 720p from new DVD player or 480i from analog cable channels or 1080i or 480p from HD cable. They all display as inputed. (bought dvi to hdmi cable from RS. Very displeased paying $100.00 for item worth $3.00 - $4.00. Very happy with 1080I output from DVD player using straight hdmi) What do I need to configure the PIO so 480i input signals are converted to 480p or better? Having problems with aspect ratios. Just watched Dodgeball 4:3, dvd player set to 4:3 and PIO set to 4:3.
PIO displayed full screen but image still a little compressed. Can I make top and bottom borders gray insteAD OF black(ish)?

faldoc

05-12-05, 10:42 PM

I ordered a Harmony 676 remote and a Pioneer 1014 for this Pio 4312 setup.

I have been watching and admiring a few DVDs on this set and DTV SD but my eyes popped out when I watched Monsters Inc. Man this is one great plasma display!

Can't wait till cable HD is installed Saturday. I am a kid in a candy store!

gmwedding

05-13-05, 03:48 PM

The Pio 4312 package with the 4304 display from Costco is a very good product and we're happy with it after a month of use. I have noticed one important limitation that is disappointing, but not entirely unexpected. We sometimes see subtle banding in quartertone and midtone color gradations, such as a blue sky that gradates from light to dark such as when the sun is pictured. The banding also sometimes is visible if heavy, gray smoke or clouds are pictured. However, it does not show up in three-quater tones (shadows) or blacks.

I've read conflicting specifications on the Pioneer and Costco Web sites, but I believe the 4304 display uses Pioneer's older ACE II (Advanced Continuous Emission II) technology, which employs 10-bit processing to produce 1,024 gradation steps for each cell and a color palette of over 1.07 billion colors.

This compares to 256 grayscale steps that can be produced by some competing products.

But the specifications for Pioneer's newest models now discuss an ACE III technology. Supposedly, the gradation rendering is improved with ACE III, which is said to distinguish 1,792 steps for each of the pixel colors. The Pioneer marketing hype only notes that this "helps keep the blacks truly black and provide finer gradations within the dark areas."

OUR HT SYSTEM
HDTV: Pioneer PDP-4304 43-inch Plasma
COMPUTER/DVD-R: Apple PowerBook G4-1.2GHz/Matshita UJ-816 (Mac mini upgrade planned)
AV RECEIVER: Pioneer VSX-912K 6:1 A/V Receiver
STB/DVR: Motorola DCT 6412 Digital Video Recorder
DVD: Sony DVP-NS725P DVD/MP3 Player
VCR: Sony SLV-N900 Video Cassette Recorder/Player

MUSIC: Apple iTunes, iPods, networked Macs, Ethernet (10/100), Airport/Airport Express (WiFi 802.11b/g), hard wired to Pioneer AV Receiver and speaker system

SPEAKERS: 6:1 (7:1 Virtual) Surround
Monitor Audio Radius 225 (Center)
Boston CR77 (2-Mains)
Boston A60 Series II (2-Surrounds)
KLH HT9900 (2-Bookshelf Rears)
KLH HT9900 (Passive Subwoofer)

yizzung

05-13-05, 11:02 PM

Maybe this is off-topic, but why don't we have a "PIO 4312/4304 official thread"? Does anyone else feel a little cheated here? I mean, "PIO going bye-bye at Costco" doesn't seem to do this thread much justice anymore and it certainly seems like there's enough of us owners out here to justify an official consolidating thread from the moderator... Just a thought. :)

somno

05-13-05, 11:30 PM

I second that idea. We should have our own official thread!

yizzung

05-13-05, 11:46 PM

Originally posted by gowens7228
le penseur and all!

i have aggregated the ISF calibration settings from this forum and noted the factory settings using le penseur's formatted document. now it is all in one place. enjoy!

--------------------------------------------------------------------
NOTE:
Numbers before the slash are ISF Calibrated settings for COMPONENT INPUT #5 found on this forum. After the slash are original factory settings for the
same input. This should take < 15 minutes and really is quite easy.

SERVICE MENU:
Make sure the 4304 is first set to the desired input (INPUT 5 in my
case). With the 4304 in STANDBY, press DISPLAY on the remote (just
press, do not hold). Wait 3 seconds, then press LEFT, UP, LEFT, RIGHT
and POWER (on the remote). If done correctly, the 4304 turns on and the
INFORMATION page is displayed. Press MUTE to move through the top-level
menus (which are INFORMATION, FUNCTION CHECK, COMMON ADJ, OPTION,
INITIALIZE). Press the DOWN key to move through individual sub-menus.

1. Make sure that the INFORMATION screen shows that the settings are
for INPUT 5 (on the top right, it should show a field beginning with
"IN5-").
NOTE: While scrolling through the submenu settings in the following
steps (e.g., "RY GAIN <=> ..."), use the LEFT/RIGHT
buttons on your remote while scrolling through these fields,
to change the values (if that's what you want to do :-))!

2. Press MUTE to advance to the INDIVIDUAL ADJ. menu.
Cycle through the settings, by pressing DOWN:
RY GAIN <=> : 128/134
GY GAIN <=> : 117/122
BY GAIN <=> : 134/131

3. Press MUTE to advance to the COMMON ADJ. menu; this should show
RGB 1 (+) as the menu item (if it doesn't, UP/DOWN will cycle through
all the choices).
(a) On RGB 1 (+), hit SET to enter the sub menu (COMMON ADJ. will
change to show COMMON-RGB1)
Cycle through the settings, by pressing DOWN:
AD MAIN R GAIN <=> : 187/209
AD MAIN G GAIN <=> : 178/193
AD MAIN B GAIN <=> : 179/194
AD MAIN R OFFSET <=> : 129/127
AD MAIN G OFFSET <=> : 162/162
AD MAIN B OFFSET <=> : 128/128
Press SET to exit.
(b) Press DOWN to go to RGB 2 (+); press SET to enter the sub menu:

AD MAIN CONTRAST <=> : 081/081
Press SET to exit.
(c) Press DOWN to go to PANEL1 (+); press SET to enter the sub menu.
Cycle through the settings, by pressing DOWN (no changes to here):
X-SUS U1 <=> : 128/128
X-SUS U2 <=> : 129/129
X-SUS D1 <=> : 128/128
X-SUS D2 <=> : 128/128
Y-SUS U1 <=> : 128/128
Y-SUS U2 <=> : 129/129
Y-SUS D1 <=> : 128/128
Y-SUS D2 <=> : 128/128
Y-SUS D3 <=> : 128/128
Y-SUS D4 <=> : 128/128
VLT-SUS <=> : 107/107
VLT-OFS <=> : 157/157
Press SET to exit.
(d) Press DOWN to go to PANEL2 (+); press SET to enter the sub menu.
Cycle through the settings, by pressing DOWN:
PANEL R HIGH <=> : 247/241
PANEL G HIGH <=> : 248/249
PANEL B HIGH <=> : 256/256
PANEL R LOW <=> : 508/512
PANEL G LOW <=> : 511/512
PANEL B LOW <=> : 509/512
ABL LEVEL <=> : 117/123
Press SET to exit.

4. Switch unit off (i.e., place it in standby) to exit the service menu.

Perhaps I am retarded but this doens't work for me. I can get into the menu but when I access all of these settings, there are no numbers on the right hand side of the colon on my display. When I press left/right, nothing happens. No numbers show up, no numbers increase or decrease. What am I doing wrong? Please tell me that I'm not arbitrarily changing these values when I press left/right and that the numbers don't show up on the screen. Is that why everyone says "press button five times"? If so, this interface is truly lame... Please tell me that I'm just not doing something right.

soi_01

05-14-05, 12:05 AM

Changed component cables to dvi to hdmi from hd cable box to 4312.
Picture appears more life like. I believe h/v refresh rate changed. (also changed some other settings) I tried to change Setup/Signal Format to 480p, but option not available. Will somebody tell me what I'm doing wrong?

Did a quick google search for female dvi to hdmi cables. Appears price range is $11.00 to <$40.00 for good quality cables.

gmwedding

05-14-05, 04:37 PM

Originally posted by faldoc
I have a question about a setup such as this 4312 montor and a Pio 1014 or similar receiver:

if you have HD DTV going into the monitor HDMI input, and a HD cable box going into the Component via the receiver, can you program the receiver's universal remote to change the monitor input and the receiver output at the same time without using the monitor remote? I like to switch back and forth between sources a lot without handling all the remotes.

We use the Pio 4304 (Costco 4312 Kit) with a Pio VSX-912k AV Receiver and Comcast's Motorola DCT-6412 DVR with an HDMI connection. The TV's Component connection is used for a Sony DVP-NS725P.

A Pio Pre-Programmed, Learning Remote, the XXD3056, is included with the Pio VSX-912k AV Receiver. It does not have the best ergonomics for a TV controller and is missing a few key buttons that necessitates mapping some functions to buttons that are not properly labeled (though intuitive by their position). But I have successfully programmed this Pio AV-Receiver Remote for many key TV, HDTV/DVR and DVD functions (using the automated Learning mode and in some instances, a Search Codes by Brand mode. Pioneer code 1046 supports the PDP-4304 Plasma).

Our Pio XXD3056 Remote now controls and operates the basic functions for all devices in our HT System (On/Off, Channel Number, Volume, Enter, Arrows (up/down and left/right), and some other key functions on the following devices:

Pio VSX-912k AV Receiver - Pre-programmed for all functions
Pio PDP-4304 Plasma TV - TV Input selection. No PIP, Screen Size, Menu (Picture, Screen, etc.) yet.
Sony DVP-NS725P DVD - Top Menu, Menu, Play, Pause, Stop, Etc.; Audio, SubTitle, Angle
Motorola DCT-6412 - DVR (Play, Stop, Record FW/FFW, R/FR, Live, Return, Guide, Menu)
Sony SLV-N900 VCR - Top Menu, Menu, Play, Pause, Stop, Etc.;

This was achieved one device at a time, in three or four separate programming sessions over the past few weeks. Most of the labeled buttons on the Pio XXD3056 now support the correct function on a given device. The challenge in Setup with a Learning Remote is thinking through logical button mapping for each device for those instances in which the XXD3056 lacks comparable buttons for a given component function.

Once I figured out which buttons to use for which functions, I usually just selected Remote Setup, a device in the XXD3056's Multi-Control button panel and navigated to Learn. I would then just hold the XXD3056 IR panel in front of the selected device's IR transmitter and press buttons that correspond to one another, one at a time, to automote the learning. It works pretty well, once I learned the programmable Pio's idiosyncrasies. It is important to remember that each buttton can do double and triple duty, depending on which component is selected in the Pio XXD3056's Multi-Control Panel (device options are DVD, TV/Satellite (Cable 1 and Cable 2), VCR, CD-R, Receiver, CD, Radio Tuner, TV Control.

I used the Setup by Brand function to program the Pio XXD3056's TV Control panel (four buttons) to operate the Pio 4304's TV Input selection. The AV Receiver's CD Input is used for music input from Apple Macs running iTunes. The connection is via Apple's Airport Express wireless router, and even this Input selection and volume can be controlled via the Pio Remote, though the music must be controlled from the computer.

OUR HT SYSTEM
HDTV: Pioneer PDP-4304 43-inch Plasma
COMPUTER/CD-R/DVD-R: Apple PowerBook G4-1.2GHz/Matshita UJ-816 (Mac mini upgrade planned)
AV RECEIVER: Pioneer VSX-912K 6:1 A/V Receiver
STB/DVR: Motorola DCT 6412 Digital Video Recorder
DVD: Sony DVP-NS725P DVD/MP3 Player
VCR: Sony SLV-N900 Video Cassette Recorder/Player

MUSIC: Apple iTunes, iPods, networked Macs,
Ethernet (10/100), Airport/Airport Express (WiFi 802.11b/g)
hard-wired to Pioneer AV Receiver and speaker system

SPEAKERS: 6:1 (7:1 Virtual) Surround
Monitor Audio Radius 225 (Center)
Boston CR77 (2-Mains)
Boston A60 Series II (2-Surrounds)
KLH HT9900 (2-Bookshelf Rears)
KLH HT9900 (Passive Subwoofer)

REMOTE CONTROL Pioneer XXD3056 AV Receiver Remote

CABLE/HDTV/DVD SERVICE: Comcast, Blockbuster Online

CONNECTIONS
Fiber Optical (DVR to AV-Receiver and DVD to AV-Receiver)
Mini D-Sub/DB15 (TV1 to Macintosh)
HDMI-DVI (TV2 to DVR)
S-Video (TV3 to VCR)
Composite Video (TV4 to VCR/NTSC - Unused)
Component (TV5 to DVD)

soi_01

05-15-05, 06:47 PM

yizzung, there's at least one other 4312 thread out there - "Pioneer 4312/4304 (the 'Costco' Pio) settings/tweaks"
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=495807&perpage=20&pagenumber=1

question - if I use component to RGB for my DVD player how will it improve picture quality over DVD component connection?

bweech

05-15-05, 07:11 PM

How come I can't find a 4312 or 4304 on the Pioneer web site?

cheridave

05-15-05, 07:24 PM

Title Edited.

Dave

faldoc

05-15-05, 08:34 PM

gmwedding
Thanks for taking the time to reply. I am adding things to my system, and I will be replacing various components to it as I can. Since the Pioneer 1014 receiver only has 2 component inputs I have to use the HDMI and vga inputs. I will try the remote it comes with, but I also ordered a Harmony remote, which I can use elsewhere if the Pio remote does the job.

I envision the inputs to be used as follows:

HDMI: DTV/HD DVR
VGA: DVD player by component to vga cable or through receiver
Component: through receiver from HD cable box/cable DVR
S-video: game input
AV: no hookup, or game use

So far I have an old Technics AV receiver, which is being replaced this week when my Pioneer 1014 comes in from onecall.

My old Pana VHS VCR is not in the system right now, till the new reciever comes in. I am not replacing this for a while, maybe a combo DVD/VHS recorder will be useful.

I just had Time Warner bring in a HD cable box yesterday which is using the component input on the monitor. Fantastic PQ in HD! Need more channels.

My cheap Apex DVD player uses the AV connections since I could not see much improvement by using the component input. Still looks great. Just finished the LOTR trilogy over the past 2 days. WOW!

SD DTV receiver is hooked into the S-video. This will soon be replaced when I can order HD DTV and DVR/Tivo for cheaper than $999. Maybe this week.

I am so pleased with this Pio monitor. I am getiing back into watching TV again. I have my laptop here while watching Discovery Channel in HD. Will I ever get tired of this great picture?

Artwood

05-15-05, 09:22 PM

When will the successor to the 4312 come out--the next Costco Pioneer low price special?

soi_01

05-16-05, 02:11 PM

Just ordered 6 foor component to HD-15 cable (55-873-RCA-6)& dvi to hdmi 6' cable(DVI-2-HDMI-6) from Ramelectronics http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/hdtv-cables.html for $65.57 delivered. They also sell an HDMI switch that'll allow me to plug in the cable box and hdmi dvd player into the single HDMI port on the 4312.
Switch box part #EXT-HDMI -241

no$$

05-16-05, 04:24 PM

bweech,
4304 is same as 434cmx with card built in

soi_01

05-16-05, 11:00 PM

I'm not going to hang my 4312 on the wall. I'm looking for a nice table top with shelves for components.

Any suggestions?

kdb209

05-16-05, 11:25 PM

Originally posted by soi_01
I'm not going to hang my 4312 on the wall. I'm looking for a nice table top with shelves for components.

Any suggestions?

I spent a long time looking around for a TV Tabletop Stand.

I finally settled on an Aspen Furniture model OTF2110.

http://www.aspenfurniture.com/digital%20solutions/OTF%20Console_Data.htm

You can probably find/order one from a discount oak type of furniture store.

It met my needs almost perfectly:

45" W - a nice fit for the 4312
22" H - using the lower height on the 4312 stand, this gave a good viewing height.
25" D - deep enough for any of my A/V components
Enclosed Solid wood - needed to be closed and toddler proof
Looks like "real" furniture - rather than typical A/V stands - important for the wife
Cheaper (~$275) than equivalent name A/V furniture stand.
Comes with casters for easy moving.
No assembly required.

jechiu

05-17-05, 05:42 PM

I want to thank eveyone here to help me choose costco pioneer 4312. It's amazing TV. Even it's $3k but when I sit in front of tv & watch those quality pictures, I still feel money well spent.

soi_01

05-17-05, 08:56 PM

Looks good thanks.

bmott

05-19-05, 03:22 PM

What PowerStrip Settings are people using to get 1024x768p to sync correctly on this monitor with their HTPC's?

soi_01

05-19-05, 07:56 PM

jechiuI> want to thank eveyone here to help me. . .

I agree with you a hd picture on this monitor is stunning
but I'm disappointed in the lack of hd content out there.

kimmcd

05-21-05, 03:31 PM

We're considering this tv but have some concerns about the warranty issue. Our in-home warranty has saved us massive headaches on our last two sets, so we're not so sure about not having one. Everyone keeps bringing up the great Costco return policy, but I can't seem to find it spelled out anywhere on their site. We're members, but we haven't been for long and we've never paid much attention. What exactly is their return policy?

We've narrowed the choices down to this, the Pio 4351hd or the Philips 42pf9966 (which is at the bottom right now judging by reviews we've seen). If we purchased either of these two, we'd go to Best Buy. We're looking at a 42 inch to mount above the fireplace in our new condo - no room for anything larger. We're moving from DTV Tivo to HD DTV Tivo at the same time.

faldoc

05-21-05, 03:49 PM

Costco return policy is your money back or replacement. With computers there is a 6 month return policy. I got my Pioneer from Costco just for this reason. You have less choice but a good product at a good price and they back up the products they sell.

This is on their website:

Returns or Exchanges
Costco guarantees your satisfaction with the merchandise you purchase from us. Costco.com products may be returned to any of our hundreds of Costco warehouses worldwide. Or, if you wish to return or exchange merchandise directly to costco.com, contact us at customer service.

Effective November 4th, 2002, Costco Wholesale’s desktop and notebook computer return policy is six-months from the date of purchase. After six-months from the date of purchase, all service and technical support will be subject to the applicable remaining manufacturers' warranty.

Link to policy (http://www.costco.com/Service/FeaturePageLeftNav.aspx?ProductNo=10166081#Returns)

kimmcd

05-21-05, 04:24 PM

Do I take that to mean that there is no expiration date on returns? If in five years this TV goes out, I can take it back?

RU Geekman

05-24-05, 10:48 AM

How come I can't find a 4312 or 4304 on the Pioneer web site?Because they generally feature only the current generation of product. That would be the PDP-4345HD (4.5-gen) and PDP-4350HD (fifth-gen).

valkyrie

05-24-05, 12:53 PM

kdb209

05-24-05, 03:35 PM

Originally Posted by bweech
How come I can't find a 4312 or 4304 on the Pioneer web site?

Because they generally feature only the current generation of product. That would be the PDP-4345HD (4.5-gen) and PDP-4350HD (fifth-gen).

IIRC it wasn't even listed when it was a current generation product.

The reason more likely is that the 4312/4304 was not a product marketed to the public. It was a bundle created exclusively to be sold at Costco (I beleive there was a similar bundle marketed exclusively thru Tweeters).

Qsquare

05-24-05, 05:23 PM

I picked up the PIO and returned the VIzio last weekend. Thank you to those who helped with with the box dimension. I threw out the outer box and the 3 inner boxes fits easily in my Path Finder.

I love this PIO! The PQ is amazing with my LG3510 with DVI-HDMI. Good transfer DVDs look even better than some local OTA HD channels. DVDs also look great with my Samsung 841 set at 480i with component cables. No black crush at all if you turn on the black level and allowing the plasma to scale with 480i. I have only done minimal tweaking with a THX DVD and have not mess with the service menu yet.

I wish I got the PIO from the get-go and not wasted 3 mos with the Vizio. The extra $1k was worth it.

====================

I was playing with the color setting on HDMI menu and was pleasantly suprise to learn that if it's set to COLOR4 rather AUTO, the black level is significantly better. I was able to see the drop THX drop shadow at "0" brigthness with my LG3510. Changing the brigthness to "-2" correctly set the black level. The black level on local TV programs and DVD significantly improved.

I also have the Samsung 841 player and was not able to get BTB to pass using HDMI/DVI and COLOR4.

Trick414

05-25-05, 08:02 PM

A member on Fatwallet just posted some of the "summer to savings" deals at Costco, and there's a Pioneer HDTV plamsa listed at $500 off next month, but the new price is HIGHER than the one currently listed on the Costco site (and in stores). Could it be that the new 5th generation plasma is about to arrive there? Has anyone seen the add from Costco and can confirm this?

I've got the ad. It has a black bezel with silver speakers and silver stand. It is item # 896289, which is different from the current Pio (704312) listed on Costco.com

The coupon is valid June 20 to June 26 and says valid only on costco.com.

The ad says it has an HDMI input as well as a media receiver, though it doesn't show the receiver... take that for whatever it is worth...

I'm interested in this as well, because my Vizio has been having some issues.

kdb209

05-25-05, 11:51 PM

Originally Posted by valkyrie
A member on Fatwallet just posted some of the "summer to savings" deals at Costco, and there's a Pioneer HDTV plamsa listed at $500 off next month, but the new price is HIGHER than the one currently listed on the Costco site (and in stores). Could it be that the new 5th generation plasma is about to arrive there? Has anyone seen the add from Costco and can confirm this?

]I've got the ad. It has a black bezel with silver speakers and silver stand. It is item # 896289, which is different from the current Pio (704312) listed on Costco.com

The coupon is valid June 20 to June 26 and says valid only on costco.com.

The ad says it has an HDMI input as well as a media receiver, though it doesn't show the receiver... take that for whatever it is worth...

I'm interested in this as well, because my Vizio has been having some issues.[/QUOTE]

Based on that description - black bezel with silver speakers and silver stand - I would guess it is either a PDP-4340HD or PDP-4345HD if it's a 43" or a PDP-5040HD or PDP-5045HD if it's a 50". It's probably not the 4350/5050 because they have dark speakers, not silver. Both the xx40 and xx45 series have silver speakers, silver stands, and separate media receiver boxes.

I checked costco.com, but the new set is not listed yet. The 4312 is the only Pioneer there. Does the ad say the size - 43" or 50".

Trick414

05-26-05, 07:06 AM

Based on that description - black bezel with silver speakers and silver stand - I would guess it is either a PDP-4340HD or PDP-4345HD if it's a 43" or a PDP-5040HD or PDP-5045HD if it's a 50". It's probably not the 4350/5050 because they have dark speakers, not silver. Both the xx40 and xx45 series have silver speakers, silver stands, and separate media receiver boxes.

I checked costco.com, but the new set is not listed yet. The 4312 is the only Pioneer there. Does the ad say the size - 43" or 50".

It's the 43".

It's priced about $1300 (after $500 discount) more than the Vizio P42HD.

esqjme

05-26-05, 09:44 AM

My head is spinning from all of this research. I was all set to buy the Sony PFM42X2, but was concerned about inputs and bare bones features. Then my cousin (who owns Jerry's AV in PHX) suggested I go to Costco because of the value and liberal return policy. So it became the PIO 4303/4312 based on the conversations I have seen here but now this new Summer Savings wrinkle has me thinking differently. Should I wait for this online deal Costco will offer on 6/20 for the PIO PDP-4350 over the 4304?

Costco also has a Phillips 43 LCD. HELP!

I want a unit that can take my HDTV, my pro scan DVD and my ps2. I want sexy looks for the unit (so Pana is out) and I want it to last. THANKS!

gmwedding

05-26-05, 02:19 PM

See if the new Costco plasma model uses Pioneer's ACE II or ACE III technology.

We have the 4312/4304, which uses the older ACE II to provide a palette of just over 1,000 tonal values for each gas cell. This is an improvement over older models that produced just 256 color values for each cell.

However, you still will see banding in areas of some scenes with the ACE II technology -- scenes in which colors graduate from light to dark, such as a sky (down to the horizon) at dusk or dawn or when a halo appears around a bright sun. You also sometimes see the very subtle tones in light gray smoke and clouds break up and posterize. These are the only shortcomings I have encountered so far in what is an otherwise nice plasma TV, but they can be quite distracting. With the Pio 4312/4304, this banding is a bigger problem than the reduced black levels that some people complain about (for the most part, I have not found Pio 4312/4304 black levels to be a problem).

It may be that a newer model with ACE III or other improved signal processing technologies has corrected this and I would like to know the answer to this question. I think that turning on all the MPEG and digital noise reduction features that correct other digital processing anomolies actually may enhance this banding effect and I am trying to evaluate this now. The Pio 4312/4304 comes with these feaures turned off, but we've had them turned on recently. Turning them on, reduces the noise in a scene. In computer graphics, artists actually add digital noise to graduated color swatches to eliminate banding.

kdb209

05-26-05, 04:12 PM

esqjme

05-26-05, 04:21 PM

kdb209

05-26-05, 04:37 PM

Well, if what they say is true about it likely being the pdp-4340, then that unit used ACEII also. The only difference seems to be better looks, and media receiver. I have no clue if I should wait or just get the 4304. sigh.

I looked at the 4340 (actually the 4341 closeout at Best Buy) and preferred the 4312, even though it did not have the media receiver - i planned on using D*, so the built in tuners were not a big deal for me. The 4341 would have been about $400 more with the BB rebate.

But the bottom line was aesthetics. The 4312's dark matte bezel looked good and unobtrusive. The 4340 had a high gloss black bezel and silver stand and speakers that just looked ugly.

gmwedding

05-26-05, 04:44 PM

Well this banding isn't always visible in the type of scenes described, but it sometimes is. The fact remains that the Pio 4312/4304 is a very nice HDTV. While we would have preferred an LCD flat panel, their prices are still way too expensive.

robglasser

05-26-05, 05:03 PM

... better looks ...

Highly subjective. Personally I like the all flat black look of the 4312 over the mixed glossy black and silver look of the 4340/45. =)

esqjme

05-26-05, 05:50 PM

robglasser

05-26-05, 06:05 PM

So would I be correct in assuming that from a tech standpoint, these two units are going to have the same exact PQ? Clearly I need to go see each unit i person to see which is more pleasing to my eye. I will say that my all silver home theater is likely to go better with the 4340 if that is the only consideration here. Thanks gentlemen.

If indeed it is 4340/45 here are the main differences from teh 4312:
1. The bezel, 4312 = All Matte/Flat Black, 4340/45 = Speakers and stand Silver, rest Glossy Black.
2. The 4340/45 comes with a media receiver that allows for more inputs and built in NTSC and ATSC tuners. One cable goes from the Media Reciever to the TV, all your components then connect to the media receiver
3. The speakers can be mounted on the sides or the bottom, the 4312 only allows for speaker connections on the side.

Other than that it should be pretty much the same. I looked at it when it was onsale at Best Buy as well and after rebates and everything it would have been about $350.00 more than the 4312. I didn't care for the silver and glossy black, though it wasn't a deal breaker, but really I didn't feel the extra cash for the media reciever was worth it, I wanted to take that cash insead and put it towards a HD DVR.

joebird

05-31-05, 04:42 PM

K Rock XP

05-31-05, 08:22 PM

nice find.

kdb209

05-31-05, 08:42 PM

They just updated the Costco website with the information on the upcoming summer deal here (http://www.costco.com/Browse/Productgroup.aspx?Prodid=11049088&whse=BC&topnav=&cat=3314&hierPath=79*3314*).

It's the PDP-4345HD with the outboard media box. The specs look the same (brightness, ACE-II, etc) as the current 4304. So it seems like it'll be a $300 difference (from 6/20 through 6/26) for the media box which also includes DCR and ATSC tuners.

Actually a $500 difference, since the PDP-4345HD is only available at that price through costco.com, so add $199 for shipping. You can't pick it up in person. There is no shipping cost on the new 4345 page, but you can't order it yet. The shipping on the 4312 is $199, so I expect the 4345 to be similar.

joebird

05-31-05, 10:45 PM

Good point. I assumed it may be available in stores, but that may not be true.

kdb209

05-31-05, 11:06 PM

Good point. I assumed it may be available in stores, but that may not be true.
The special promoition in the Costco coupon book says it is only available thru costco.com.

ravmazda

06-01-05, 06:23 AM

I'll stick with my 4312. I really don't need another box (media center) and I also don't need to spend another $500.

waltaz

06-01-05, 12:00 PM

I also saw this via a flyer we got from Costco. Big diffs seem to be the media receiver with tuner and the look, including how the speakers attach. Which is a big deal for me, since I currently don't have the 4312's speakers attached because they don't fit in my niche. Which my wife doesn't like.

I'm thinking of "trading in" the 4312 for the new one by taking it back and getting the new one PROVIDED the new one WITH the speakers attached fits in my niche. The dimensions on the web site show 44 1/8" wide - does anyone know if that is with the speakers attached, or without? I have 47 1/2" to work with.

Walt

RU Geekman

06-01-05, 12:49 PM

That's with the speakers atttached.

virent

06-02-05, 10:09 AM

The Costco website mentions that the media receiver for 4345HD has only 1 input of each type.
# A/V Input: x1 (RCA Pin)
# S-Video Input: x1
# HDMI Input: x1
# Monitor Output: x1
# Component Input: x1
# D-sub Input - AV & PC

While other websites show the following :
# A/V Input (Front) x 1 (RCA Pin)
# A/V Input (Rear) x 3 (RCA Pin)
# S-Video Input (Front) x 1
# S-Video Input (Rear) x 2
# S-Video Output (Rear) x 1
# Component Input (Front) x 1
# Component Input (Rear) x 2
# D - Sub 15 Input (Front) x 1 (For PC Input)
# Digital Audio Output (Rear) Yes (Optical)
# iLink 2 Terminals
# HDMI Input 2 (with HDCP)

Which one is correct?

Chisand

06-03-05, 12:53 AM

wabkab

06-03-05, 11:09 AM

Hadn't been here in a while. The reason, I suspect, is like most of us we have been thoroughly enjoying the pretty much flawless Pioneer from Costco. Now back to watching that addictive habit and happy viewing.
Just give me more high def programming. I'm ready for the NFL package season.

waltaz

06-03-05, 12:08 PM

Waltaz, As you can see in the picture, the speakers on the 4345 are smaller than the display. This is so they can be removed and put end on end on the bottom of the set if desired. I don't know if that makes it easier to fit your application but you should be able to get the exact dimensions from the manual on the Pioneeer website.
Yeah, I thought as much because before I got the 4312, I was looking at the 4345 at BB and noticed that the speakers could be attached to the sides or bottom. That gives much more flexibility for the installation.

I will likely do the "trade," but it has nothing to do with the quality of the display. We love it - HD is just awesome. It's just that for the family, it's too much of a pain in the arse not having the speakers hooked up.

BTW, I sent an e-mail to costco.com about the process and while they haven't responded yet, the info on the return part of the site says you get refunded the purchase price AND any shipping and setup charges. Which is very cool, since that is $199. So I will likely order the new one between 6/20 and 6/26 and take the old one back when the new one arrives.

accents

06-05-05, 10:40 AM

Yeah, I thought as much because before I got the 4312, I was looking at the 4345 at BB and noticed that the speakers could be attached to the sides or bottom. That gives much more flexibility for the installation.

I just bought the 4312. It said you could mount the speakers on the bottom somewhere in the table stand manual. Might be worth looking again.

Accents

accents

06-05-05, 10:54 AM

I ended up purchasing the Costco Pioneer PDP-4312HD, and I wanted to pass on some of my research. I read reviews on the web, and I found that Panasonics and Pioneers were the best rated plasma TVS. Based on my budget and what I could find locally, I chose the Costco Pioneer.

Picture is spectacular with Directv HD Discovery channel. I feel like I am looking at a high resolution photograph that is the size of the 43" TV screen. Amazing is just not enough to describe the quality of the picture. I have bad eyes (down to the big E on the eye chart in one eye), and I can only describe high definition tv as watching tv with glasses where everything is crystal clear. Normal tv is like watching tv without glasses, blurry and no detail.

On the bad side of the 4312, dark movies are not so good as all of the black and near black tend to blend together as in one of the Matrix movies in high definition. (Note, I might be able to tweak settings more.) I do note that people's faces tend to be on the red side on standard tv 480i, but the red face is not a problem in high definition. I might get a pro out to tweak the tv. But again, the high definition is just amazing.

Accents

accents

06-05-05, 10:58 AM

The 4312 does not have a tuner, but I purchased a Directv HD Receiver (RCA) which does both Directv HD and antenna local HD stations for three hundred. The 4312 converts everything 480i/p,1080i,720p to 768p. You can also hook up a computer to the 4312 (I have not done so.) You can get the 4312 on the web cheaper than at Costco, but you would have to pay shipping and Costco's return policy is generous.

Costco Pioneer model PDP-4312HD. Spoke with Pioneer service rep to confirm previous findings that the Costco model is related to the industrial model- PDP-434CMX. Again, the customer rep confirmed that the Costco model is based on the PDP-434CMX. Pushing the rep harder, he confirmed that it is the PDP-434CMX but with a different feature set of bells and whistles. I can hook the Costco model up to a Directv receiver, VCR or a compputer. I confirmed that the Costco model has an HDMI input and will display copyrighted material. (The PDP-434CMX manual mentioned a DVI connection which would not support displaying copyrighted material, so I wanted to be sure about the HDMI input.).

Accents

accents

06-05-05, 11:01 AM

post

accents

06-05-05, 11:03 AM

post 5 now I can post urls. Argghs! This is so painful.

accents

06-05-05, 11:04 AM

Took me a long time to find the pioneer web site for this model.
You can check pioneer website for more information on the PDP-434CMX
http://www.pioneerindustrialav.com/ims/product/manuals/0,,196140362_196151303,00.html.

The manual from Costco is similar but not exactly the same as the pioneer PDP-434CMX users Manual.pd. (You can download the manual from the www.pioneerindustrialav.com web site). The PDP-434CMX users Manual will give you an idea of the Costco's 4312 functionality (similar but not the same as the Costco version). And the remotes for the Costco and the remote pictured in the PDP-434CMX manual appear to be the same. The inputs/outputs on the monitor are the ones listed on the Costco website. You get a table top stand and speakers with the Costco unit.

There was some talk about Costco selling old previous model year, so I checked that out.
The Costco model is the current model year (confirmed with customer rep.) The PDP-434CMX debuted in June 2004. Press release link -
http://www.pioneerindustrialav.com/ims/press/releases/0,,196140362_202825714_103812981,00.html

The avsforum has an official thread: The Official "PIO 4312/4304" Thread!!! for tons of information on tweaking etc.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=521385&highlight=pioneer+costco+4304

Oh I had to break the big box from Costco open at the store to get the smaller boxes out so that I could fit it in my Ford Explorer. Otherwise to move the original big box, you need a pickup. From what I have read, don't lay the box down for transport or you can end up with a lot of broken glass.

Accents

bobaphx

06-06-05, 03:45 AM

I was about to purchase the Costco Pioneer 4312 when the Best Buy sale on the 4341 (a 4340 really) came along a few months back. I bought the 4341 (for about $300 + more) because:
1. As much as I like the the look of the 4312 I like the look of the 4341 better. It looks more expense and looks pretty much like the Elite models and other high end sets from other manufacturers.
2. The silver stand is good quality, handsome design, and allows the panel to easily swivel from side to side which we have used more often than I thought we would. The silver color works well with my components... all of which have some silver on them.
3. I didn't particularly like the silver speakers (but not a deal breaker) and have never taken them out of the box anyway because I use my HT surround speakers. However, they can be mounted on the sides OR on the bottom giving the TV a Panasonic/JVC/Samsung kind of look. I will use the speakers, in one of the configurations, when I move the TV to the bedroom someday.
4. I really like the separate Media box now that I have it. It makes for a very neat and easy install. I routed the only 2 wires (power & video) up the middle of the back of the stand and you can't see any wires, at all, dangling around the setup... very neat. Also, when I do hang it on the wall (which I plan to do when I find the right media cabinet and the time to do it), the 2 wires to panel will make that very easy.
5. Now... the real reason I bought the Best Buy Pioneer 4341 was the 36 month NO Interest financing. I hauled that big box out of Best Buy without a penny out of pocket and have set up my BofA ebill account to pay Best Buy $100.00 per month for the next 36 months. I just counldn't pass that deal up.

With all this said, I think anyone would be happy with either of the 2 Pioneers (4312 or 4345 with coupon) from Costco. Since my friends have seen my Pioneer over the past few months, one has purchased the 4312 from Costco and another is planning on purchasing the 4345 during the Costco coupon sale.
This Pioneer Plasma is beautiful and I'm thrilled to have it.

soi_01

06-06-05, 08:43 AM

With all this said, I think anyone would be happy with either of the 2 Pioneers (4312 or 4345 with coupon) from Costco. Since my friends have seen my Pioneer over the past few months, one has purchased the 4312 from Costco and another is planning on purchasing the 4345 during the Costco coupon sale.
This Pioneer Plasma is beautiful and I'm thrilled to have it.[/QUOTE]

I believe mosta ll mfgs will be using a media box design. It'll make uograding components easy and as you stated stated very clean design with jsut two cables going to monitor,

accents

06-06-05, 10:10 AM

For the braver souls and those willing to explore the dark depths of techno never never land
Technical Manual version 2.0 for the PDP-434CMX Plasma Display Panel (Adobe PDF, 21.76MB)
http://www.pioneerindustrialav.com/ims/product/manuals/0,,196140362_196151303,00.html

Accents

pioneer
(youll figure it out)

gmwedding

06-06-05, 11:22 AM

Center channel speaker for Costco Pio 4304 (4312)

We recently added a nice center channel and two left/right front speakers to our sound system that is paired with this Pioneer plasma. Our Pio is mounted on the tabletop stand that comes with the display. Finding a center channel speaker small enough to fit under the stand that Pioneer ships with this model, and still attain big sound, is a real challenge. Most normal center speakers are too tall for this configuration, even if the stand is set to maximum height, which leaves just 4.75 inches of vertical clearance and the smaller form factor micro speakers didn't provide the sound we were looking for. We could not mount a speaker on the wall above the plasma, because it (and the stand) sit angled in a corner next to the fireplace.

I thought some might benefit from our saga.

Because we were working on a tight budget, we first purchased two Boston Acoustics left/right fronts to match the bright timbre of two older BA A60 Series II speakers we planned to use as surrounds. Of course, it would have been ideal to just purchase an entire new 5:1 or 6:1 sound system, but the budget just did not allow this. Also, it is wise to first build around a good center, but initially, we just couldn't find one of a suitable height that we could afford. In spite of the fact that most of the Boston center channel products were too tall for our setup, we started by adding the two Boston bookshelf speakers as left/right mains:
Boston CR77 mains: 6.5" woofer; 89dB/52-23Khz (+/-3db); 12.25"h x 7.5"w x11.5"d; 8 ohm/15-100w.
Boston A60/Series II surrounds: 8" woofer; 90dB/52-20Khz (+/-3db); 75w; mylar dome tw; 8 ohm; (circa 1980)

Then, we borrowed an old, unused and under-powered center from a neighbor for temporary use while we searched for a center. Then, we came across a stack of 110-watts-per-channel Pioneer VSX 912k AV Receivers at Costco, and picked one up for about $250. This model is two generations behind the current comparable Pioneer products, but very capable -- and a big improvement over the old 30-watts-per-channel Denon we were only using.

This made a huge difference in the sound quality. Unfortunately, we then blew out the foam woofer surrounds on the 25-year-old BAs that we had designated as our side surrounds while watching Van Helsing, which has a great soundtrack to test an audio system! So much for saving money by trying to build a system mixing old and new components! Fortunately, BA had replacement woofers available for $40 each and we re-installed these. What a great company.

About a month ago, we finally found a great center channel spearker that fits under the Pio 4304/4312 stand and matches the timbre of the other Boston speakers -- the Monitor Audio Radius 225 is a slim speaker designed for use with stand or wall-mounted flat screen TVs and normally sells for $349. We found one at a Good Guys closeout for $279, which was closer to our budget.
Monitor Audio Radius 225: 90dB/55-25Khz (+/-3db); 4.7"h x 24"w x 4.1"d.

The sound is big and the specs are better than the BA left/right fronts we purchased. It has a black lacquer finish but this is barely noticeable when the speaker is nestled under the Pio monitor (I do wish Monitor Audio offered a flat black option). Of course, if we had the funds, we would have purchased matching Monitor Audio Bronze or Silver left/right mains (I had looked at these before purchasing the BA mains, but had to pass because of their higher prices -- which started at $299ea/$600 pair). Like the Monitor Audio center channel, these have better specs than the BAs we eventually opted for. But we are very happy with the audio system.

This story probably offers some good lessons on how NOT to go about assembling a sound system, but it did work our for us...

faldoc

06-06-05, 01:47 PM

gmwedding:
you might try to go back to Costco and tell them what you paid for your 912k and they should give you $100 back because it went on clearance for $149.95 last month.

gmwedding

06-06-05, 04:17 PM

gmwedding:
you might try to go back to Costco and tell them what you paid for your 912k and they should give you $100 back because it went on clearance for $149.95 last month.

Hey, thanks for the ino. I'll get right on that.

joebird

06-06-05, 05:25 PM

The Technical Manual on that website is password protected -- did you get the password?

joebird

06-06-05, 05:29 PM

I was referring above to the version 2.0 manual. The other manual is readable, and there seems to be a few significant differences between the information in that manual and reality regarding the 4304.

accents

06-07-05, 09:51 PM

there seems to be a few significant differences between the information in that manual and reality regarding the 4304.

Yes, there are differences. It was my understanding from the customer rep that the Costco 4304 is the PDP-434CMX model with different bells and whistles. But the fact that there is a lot of commonality between the two models helps me confirm that the 4304 is based on the PDP-434CMX and gives me some assurance of the qualtity of the 4304.

I have no idea if the service manual for the PDP-434CMX model will work with the 4304. I am not yet brave enough to try it. I thought some of the gurus here might be interested.

password is pioneer

accents

no$$

06-08-05, 09:52 AM

the 4304 and 434cmx are exactly the same with 1 exception, the video card is built in with the 4304.

soi_01

06-08-05, 07:43 PM

[QUOTE=soi_01]With all this said, I think anyone would be happy with either of the 2 Pioneers (4312 or 4345 with coupon) from Costco. . . . .

Has anybody compared PQ betweenn the 4312 and 4345 and features?

pbenjamin

06-08-05, 07:51 PM

the 4304 and 434cmx are exactly the same with 1 exception, the video card is built in with the 4304.

That's just wrong. There are several differences. Start out with the physical layout. The controls are on the side of the 434cmx and on the front of the 4304. The 434cmx has the point zoom and screen management features which the 4304 lacks. That is just from a quick perusal of the 434cmx manual. There are probably more.

no$$

06-09-05, 12:19 PM

Hi Paul,
The engineer at pioneer told me " no difference, except the video card". The physical layout is not all that important, is it? The picture quality is and that is exactly the same.

pbenjamin

06-09-05, 03:13 PM

I am more concerned about the features. The picture quality is probably the same across all of the 4th generation 43" panels. I was told the same thing about them being the same and assumed that the 4304 would have all of the features of the 434cmx. I then learned through the old Pio at Costco (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=489362) thread that it was missing some things, particularly the screen management, which I was quite concerned about at the time. I went ahead and bought the 4304, and am quite happy with it. It is misleading, though, to say that the panels are the same.

no$$

06-09-05, 04:34 PM

I am also happy with mine, when Pioneer say the "same" one has to take their word for it, no? The picture quality, again according to Pio. is different/ better as you move up the line. The 4304/4312 is the 434cmx in a diffferent box. I was given all the advantages of the higher models but the cost is not worth it to me. If money was no object I would look at the Elite series or a Fujitsu.

soi_01

06-09-05, 07:28 PM

Hi Paul,
The engineer at pioneer told me " no difference, except the video card". The physical layout is not all that important, is it? The picture quality is and that is exactly the same.

Can the video card be swapped out in the new one or the 4312?

kdb209

06-09-05, 07:48 PM

Originally Posted by no$$
Hi Paul,
The engineer at pioneer told me " no difference, except the video card". The physical layout is not all that important, is it? The picture quality is and that is exactly the same.

Can the video card be swapped out in the new one or the 4312?

People have speculated that the 4312 may be upgradable, but no one has opened up the back of one and said definitively whether there is a card slot or not. The layout of the Component/S-Video/Composite RCA connectors looks like one of the 434CMX video cards (PDA-5004 IIRC), which means there could be a real card and slot behind the back plate, or it could mean that Pioneer just integrated the 5004 onto another board.

There is one other very significant difference between the 4312 and the 434CMX - the 4312 has an HDMI input, the 434CMX a DVI one.

no$$

06-10-05, 09:52 AM

According to Pio. the card is not upgradable in the 4312, however, if you are right about the HDMI/DVI input issue, I then would have to consider the info. given to me directly from the engineer/tech at Pio. to be unreliable. I am glad the 4312 has the HDMI, the picture is very nice.

waltaz

06-10-05, 01:40 PM

Yeah, I thought as much because before I got the 4312, I was looking at the 4345 at BB and noticed that the speakers could be attached to the sides or bottom. That gives much more flexibility for the installation.

I will likely do the "trade," but it has nothing to do with the quality of the display. We love it - HD is just awesome. It's just that for the family, it's too much of a pain in the arse not having the speakers hooked up.

BTW, I sent an e-mail to costco.com about the process and while they haven't responded yet, the info on the return part of the site says you get refunded the purchase price AND any shipping and setup charges. Which is very cool, since that is $199. So I will likely order the new one between 6/20 and 6/26 and take the old one back when the new one arrives.
Here's the Pio that Costco.com will be selling June 20-26:
http://www.costco.com/Browse/Productgroup.aspx?Prodid=11049088&whse=BC&topnav=&cat=3314&hierPath=79*3314*

Basically, the 4341/45 that BB was selling earlier in the year.

I am going to my local Costco today to discuss how to facilitate the return. I am guessing I'll have to order the new one, pay for it with a credit card, wait until it arrives, then bring in the 4312 to the local store for the refund.

soi_01

06-10-05, 07:55 PM

There is one other very significant difference between the 4312 and the 434CMX - the 4312 has an HDMI input, the 434CMX a DVI one.[/QUOTE]

Which is preferred DVI or HDMI? After dropping 3K for thr 4312 I'm a little put off by the video adapter not being upgradable. This technology changes all the time and being locked into an aging video adapter is not a good thing.

joebird

06-11-05, 01:18 AM

HDMI and DVI should give you an equivalent picture. They are both digital, and use the same encoding scheme. The main difference is that HDMI can also carry digital audio. If you get an HDMI/DVI conversion cable then the picture quality should be the same no matter which you have on your display. HDMI saves you the trouble of also connecting audio to the display (plasma). If you are using an external audio amplifier then you don't really need this extra benefit of HDMI, and DVI would be fine.

accents

06-11-05, 10:25 AM

Which is preferred DVI or HDMI? After dropping 3K for thr 4312 I'm a little put off by the video adapter not being upgradable. This technology changes all the time and being locked into an aging video adapter is not a good thing.

From what I have read.... DVI is the aging video connector, and HDMI is the new video connector. You want HDMI, not DVI.

For example, my Directv HD reciever had a DVI +HDCP connector (HDCP is the copy protection built in to HDMI). I had seen the Directv HD reciever at Best Buy with an HDMI connector, and I wanted the HDMI connector. To sell me the unit with DVI+HDCP, the satellite guy threw in a DVI +HDCP to HDMI cable (which are pricey), so that I could connect the receiver to the Pioneer 4304.

Accents

accents

06-11-05, 10:30 AM

Red faces.
For the most part, I am happy with the Costco Pioneer 4304 color, but the faces are too red. I have tried tweaking the normal color settings without much improvement. Does anybody have any suggestions for tweaking down the red faces?

On some shows the faces are flesh toned, on other shows the faces are very red. Has anybody else noticed this? Or is it that the TV's resolution now shows up bad camerawork, and now I can see it? On HD channels, the red faces are less noticable.

Accents

accents

06-11-05, 10:41 AM

Has anybody compared PQ betweenn the 4312 and 4345 and features?

When I was trying to track down the origins of the 4312, I did notice the physical size differences. They are two different manufactured displays: 4312 from Pioneer's industrial displays and the 4345 from Pioneer's retail displays.

4312 Dimensions: 42-1/8" W x 24-13/16" H x 3-7/8" D
Dimensions:

4345 Display: 44-1/8" W x 25-11/16" H x 3-7/8" D

The point is that they are not the same box with different bells and whistles. They are two entirely different boxes. As to what inner components may be common, I really don't know.

Hope it helps,
Accents

gmwedding

06-11-05, 11:16 AM

Red faces: what you are seeing has nothing to do with camera work. Rather, the brightness, contrast color and tint settings on virtually all TVs are set overly high at the factory by manufacturers, probably so that the picture quality of retail floor models will appear vibrant in brightly lit showrooms.

Depending on the amount of ambient light in your viewing room (and the color temperature of your lighting), you can simply adjust the brightness (our Pio 4312/4304 plasma is now -8); contrast (ours is 0); color saturation (-4); tint (0) but the optimal settings for your display and viewing conditions may vary. You also can purchase a DVD that walks you through routine HT video and audio setup -- the most commonly used products are the AVIA Guide to Home Theater or Digital Video Essentials. I picked up the DVE DVD at Best Buy, but they can be difficult to find in the DVD section. You can order them online as well from Amazon or their respective Web sites.

Alternatively, you can hire a HT professional to perform a certified ISF (Imaging Sciences Foundation) calibration. They use a computer, a calibration device and special software to access the TVs internal service and diagnostics menu and make adjustments that conform to precise mathematical specifications (without these tools, you're trying to do the same thing making visual judgements and the results will vary with each person attempting it).

Some plasma owners place a daylight-balanced (6500-degree Kelvin), 24-inch fluorescent light source behind the display to compensate for an inherent limitation in plasma technology that affects the maximum black level that can be achieved. Plasma bias backlighting fools the mind's eye and improves viewers' perceptions of black levels (While many plasma screens have black level deficiencies -- the Pio's is pretty good, though not perfect). You can purchase special 'plasma bias' lamp kits (the fluorescent tubes are more expensive, but have a higher CRI -- color rendering index), which is to say they create an accurate color neutral, daylight-balanced viewing environment. However, inexpensive (though less color-accurate) fluorescent lamps are available at your local Home Depot. Do not use 'rope lighting or any other 'warm' light source as a plasma bias light -- it will alter your color perception. Even wall paint can affect your color perception, and purists might want to choose a neutral gray for their HT environment. If you intend to use plasma bias lighting, add it to the room before doing a manual calibration, since it could affect the visual judgements — and adjustments — you make.

Ideally, calibration is a procedure that should be repeated periodically as the display ages since the output capabilities of any technology constantly changes as phosphors and LCD light sources age and diminish. An added benefit: turning down the brightness and contrast settings will prolong the life of your display. Search the Web, and the AVS Forum for more on HDTV calibration.

soi_01

06-11-05, 02:15 PM

The point is that they are not the same box with different bells and whistles. They are two entirely different boxes. As to what inner components may be common, I really don't know.

Hope it helps,
Accents[/QUOTE]

Yes, it helps. Does the new model have optical glass front panel or plastic? I believe the 4312 has plastic front panel.

Mike

ir0nchef

06-12-05, 12:03 AM

cheridave

06-12-05, 11:27 AM

Threads Merged!

Dave

soi_01

06-12-05, 03:24 PM

begwer

06-12-05, 06:19 PM

I am probably going to buy either the 4345 from costco or the 4350 elsewhere. Question I have is whether someone can recommend an installer in the NY area who can help me get the thing set up correctly?

Thanks in advance.

joebird

06-12-05, 07:47 PM

Yes, make sure your cables are not crossed. For component on both ends:

Y = green connector
Pb = blue connector
Pr = red connector

Of course, as long as you are consistent on both ends it should not matter, but this is the generally accepted setup.

accents

06-13-05, 11:41 AM

Purchased the unit and when i connect anything via component or rgb. the colors are not correct. Throught RGB the screen is all red. Through compenent, the colors are just very green and makes the image way off in color. is there setting i'm missing out on or do you think its just a defective unit. everything through compsite , s video, and even HDMI is perfectly fine. please let me know your thoughts AV gods.

Component cable. I don't remember the details, but I do remember we had to do something with a menu setting either with the Directv box or with the 4304. There is a setting related to component cable (page 12 of manual??). Something related to the different colored connectors getting a setting being Pb versus something else. I knowmy explanation is vaque, but it might get you looking in the right direction. Or perhaps someone can explain this better.

Accents

PS My thanks to Geo/GMwedding for the excellent explanation of "red faces"

joebird

06-13-05, 01:04 PM

Yes, pages 21-23 in the manual describe the procedure.

soi_01

06-13-05, 04:25 PM

There is one other very significant difference between the 4312 and the 434CMX - the 4312 has an HDMI input, the 434CMX a DVI one.[/QUOTE]

What is the model # for the pioneer plasma COSTCO will sell beginning June 20th?

Mike

berkleegrad

06-13-05, 05:49 PM

Greetings All,

I just joined the PDP4312 parade and glad I did! Pardon my newbie question if it has been asked before:. . .

After reading KenLong's helpful submissions, I decide to adjust the picture attributes from the menu; but, ALL of the picture options are greyed out. Am I overlooking something obvious or are these options changed from the service menu?

I'm using the BHN Pace HD box with component outputs (until my HDMI2DVI cable arrives) on input 5 ...

BTW, I also unable to access the Menu Picture Options from the menu when viewing DVDs on input 3

thanks in advance, -Rick

berkleegrad

06-13-05, 10:55 PM

dqdude

06-14-05, 08:31 PM

Greetings All,

sorry to waste the bandwidth. . .

I was able to find my answer in the 4312 settings and tweaks thread: # 495807

Changing the display from dynamic to user (or any other setting but dynamic) did the trick.

And as my wife says; "the display is stunning."

I'm trying to find that thread...I( assume that it is in the archived area) and I cannot find it. Can you provide the link.

I'm trying to change the display from dynamic to user and can't figure out how to do it.

Thanks!

berkleegrad

06-14-05, 09:29 PM

Can you provide the link.
Thanks!

dqdude;

The name of the thread is: Pioneer 4312/4304 (the 'Costco' Pio) settings/tweaks ; but, I haven't posted enough messages so the s/w won't let me leave a fully formed url . Just cut and paste - /avs-vb/showthread.php?t=495807 - afer the avsforum domain name and that should get you there.

You can easily change from dynamic mode to user mode (or whatever) by using the AV selection on the remote. It's the button to the lower left of the "left arrow".

hope this helps, -Rick

dqdude

06-15-05, 12:23 AM

dqdude;

The name of the thread is: Pioneer 4312/4304 (the 'Costco' Pio) settings/tweaks ; but, I haven't posted enough messages so the s/w won't let me leave a fully formed url . Just cut and paste - /avs-vb/showthread.php?t=495807 - afer the avsforum domain name and that should get you there.

You can easily change from dynamic mode to user mode (or whatever) by using the AV selection on the remote. It's the button to the lower left of the "left arrow".

hope this helps, -Rick

Got it...thanks for the help!

Just returned my piece of crap, Vizio, today and got the 4304. It is unreal how much better the 4304 is!!!

berkleegrad

06-19-05, 06:33 AM

Got it...thanks for the help!

Just returned my piece of crap, Vizio, today and got the 4304. It is unreal how much better the 4304 is!!!

dqdude,

We've got a little 13" Vizio LCD TV in the kitchen, which helped "push down the tall grass" for the purchase of the PDP 4312. :)

The PQ on the Vizio was certainly much better than the TV it replaced and better than the rest of our standard CRT TVs for that matter. But, the PQ on the Vizio just doesn't compare to our "new, bright and shinny" Pio.

enjoy your new Pio, - Rick

soi_01

06-25-05, 11:25 PM

soi_01

06-26-05, 11:53 AM

Will the speakers and stand from a 4304 fit a 4345?
If they'll fit I'd like to buy them from a user who no longer needs them.

waltaz

06-26-05, 08:20 PM

[QI am going to my local Costco today to discuss how to facilitate the return. I am guessing I'll have to order the new one, pay for it with a credit card, wait until it arrives, then bring in the 4312 to the local store for the refund.

Did you return your 4312 and buy the 4345?

I wonder if the 4345 is upgradeable what with the media box?
Is the 4345 a higher end unit?

Mike
Yes, I've got the return authorization from Costco for the 4312 and am waiting to hear from them as to when they'll have someone out to pick it up.

I ordered the 4345 last Monday and it is now in the process of being shipped (which will take 2-3 weeks).

The 4345 is not a higher-end display than the 4312 (it's the same), it just has more consumer features and a different look, along with the media box. And the speakers can fit on the sides or bottom. It is the Best Buy version they were selling up until Feb. or March.

Price is exactly the same as the 4312 was.

soi_01

06-26-05, 10:51 PM

>[QUOTE=waltaz]Yes, I've got the return authorization from Costco for the 4312 and >am waiting to hear from them as to when they'll have someone out to pick it up.

>The 4345 is not a higher-end display than the 4312 (it's the same), it just has more >consumer features and a different look, along with the media box. And the >speakers can fit on the sides or bottom. It is the Best Buy version they were >selling up until Feb. or March.

I like the idea of only one cable going to the display and all of the connections in the media box. I wonder if the components in the media box are upgradeable?

Mike

kdb209

06-27-05, 12:42 AM

Will the speakers and stand from a 4304 fit a 4345?
If they'll fit I'd like to buy them from a user who no longer needs them.

If the 4345 is similar to the 4340, then no.

The 4340 (actually Best Buy 4341 bundle) had silver speakers which were smaller that the screen height and mounted recesssed. The 4304 has full height speakers that mount flush.

The 4341 has a silver swivel mount stand, the 4304 a black, fixed, two post stand.

plasmatime

06-27-05, 11:28 AM

soi_01

06-27-05, 12:27 PM

I did not know that the local stores did deliveries or pick-ups

COSTCO stores in the Baltimoe MD area do not deliver or pick up.
I believe COSTCO does not have a pick up/delivery service.

waltaz

06-27-05, 12:39 PM

Alright Waltaz, you need to help me out with the whole Costco return process. I would love to exchange my 4312 for the 4345 because it would be much easier to deal with less wiring. I bought my 4312 from a local store, how did you go about arranging the return? Did you buy the 4345 from the same local store?

I did not know that the local stores did deliveries or pick-ups.
I went through Costco.com for both transactions.

I think that if you purchased it at a local store, you have to take it back to that (or any) store.

BTW, the special for the 4345 ended yesterday and it is not even on the web site anymore - only the 4312 is.

soi_01

06-27-05, 04:09 PM

If the 4345 is similar to the 4340, then no.

The 4340 (actually Best Buy 4341 bundle) had silver speakers which were smaller that the screen height and mounted recesssed. The 4304 has full height speakers that mount flush.

The 4341 has a silver swivel mount stand, the 4304 a black, fixed, two post stand.

I'd like to know if the stand from a 4312 will work on a 4345?

Mike

waltaz

06-27-05, 04:28 PM

I'd like to know if the stand from a 4312 will work on a 4345?

Mike
I don't think so

soi_01

06-28-05, 08:20 PM

Anybody watching TV on a 4345?

waltaz

06-29-05, 12:06 AM

Anybody watching TV on a 4345?
Mine comes tomorrow...that was quick!

chinatti

06-29-05, 11:06 AM

Hi forum,

I've been reading this thread intently, and I'm pretty sold on the PIO4312, and will probably be picking one of these up from Costco. I'm in the process of a remodel, and there's a perfect little wall cavity to pop this baby into. I'm trying to figure out the speaker plan, so I have a few questions:

- Does the 4312 have audio outputs that I can feed into my AV receiver?
- Are the speakers wired externally? Specifically I was thinking about connecting the two 4312 speakers in parallel to my center channel output on my receiver, and using my own speakers for Left/Right.
- What's the best height to wall mount a set like this? I know this is somewhat subjective, but I figured I'd ask to see what people thought...

Thanks in advance,
Steve

waltaz

06-29-05, 12:04 PM

- Does the 4312 have audio outputs that I can feed into my AV receiver?
I don't believe so. It is a monitor only, with no tuner, so it doesn't output. I run my sound from my cable set-top box to my receiver. I don't use the 4312 speakers (because they don't fit in my niche).
- Are the speakers wired externally? Specifically I was thinking about connecting the two 4312 speakers in parallel to my center channel output on my receiver, and using my own speakers for Left/Right.
Yes, you can do this - they are like any other speakers to wire in wherever you want them.
- What's the best height to wall mount a set like this? I know this is somewhat subjective, but I figured I'd ask to see what people thought...
I don't know as I've got mine on the stand on a media cabinet. Probably 5-6' would be my guess.

accents

06-30-05, 05:21 PM

- Does the 4312 have audio outputs that I can feed into my AV receiver?

I added wireless headphones that needed audio out. I found some of those red and white cables that allowed me to tee out an extra set of audio outputs before being plugged into the TV. It has a feed thru connector. If someone knows what I am talking about, please explain it beter. Anyway, the morale of this story is that it can be done without having an audio out from the TV.
Accents

soi_01

07-01-05, 09:35 PM

I went through Costco.com for both transactions.

I think that if you purchased it at a local store, you have to take it back to that (or any) store.

BTW, the special for the 4345 ended yesterday and it is not even on the web site anymore - only the 4312 is.

Did the 4345 arrive? Is the media box upgradable? likes/dislikes compared to the 4312?

Mike

waltaz

07-02-05, 04:00 PM

Did the 4345 arrive? Is the media box upgradable? likes/dislikes compared to the 4312?

Mike
Got it on Weds. Don't know about the media box.

While the display is the same (I think), I like the 4345 much better. Why?:
- Speakers attach at the bottom and fit in my niche. Nice speakers; sound great.
- It looks bigger and a little nicer (actually, it is, overall)
- Profile from front to back is thinner
- Media box makes it simple to plug in a game console or digital camera/videocamera. Input 4 is on the front of it. Plus, it's much easier to change/check all the other connections.
- Integrated tuner that I have yet to use, but it's very nice to have. I will split the cable signal to both the STB and directly to the TV (eventually).
- Remote is very nice - not the basic version the 4312 came with.
- Menus are nice

All-in-all, it just seems much more consumer-friendly. For exactly the same price and net NOTHING out of pocket, it was a no-brainer.

coach2win

07-02-05, 09:44 PM

of course.........

soi_01

07-02-05, 10:42 PM

All-in-all, it just seems much more consumer-friendly. For exactly the same price and net NOTHING out of pocket, it was a no-brainer.[/QUOTE]

I bought my 4312 about five weeks ago and I'm somewhat pertubed to 4345 was released so close to my 4312 purchase. How is the media cable attached to the screen/media box? It is removable? I only need a three foot cable instead of the nine foot cable. It sound like you're very pleased with the 4345. Do you think the 4312stand and speakers will fit on the 4345?

Mike

Daylightdon

07-02-05, 10:46 PM

I am a NEWBIE!
I am considering a 4312. What else do I need to watch HDTV?

soi_01

07-02-05, 11:07 PM

I am a NEWBIE!
I am considering a 4312. What else do I need to watch HDTV?

HD tuner and HD source. I'm using Comcast HD Tuner.
pretty wonderful image and ok to good stereo sound.

waltaz

07-03-05, 02:03 AM

All-in-all, it just seems much more consumer-friendly. For exactly the same price and net NOTHING out of pocket, it was a no-brainer.

I bought my 4312 about five weeks ago and I'm somewhat pertubed to 4345 was released so close to my 4312 purchase. How is the media cable attached to the screen/media box? It is removable? I only need a three foot cable instead of the nine foot cable. It sound like you're very pleased with the 4345. Do you think the 4312stand and speakers will fit on the 4345?

Mike[/QUOTE]
Yeah, I don't know why Costco sold the 4345's for one week - they must have got a bunch. From order to delivery was 9 calendar days - my 4312 took a month.

The media cable attaches via two VGA kind of connectors.

The 4312 stand and speakers will definitely NOT fit on the 4345 - very different set up.

Daylightdon

07-03-05, 10:00 AM

Do I need an HD DVD player or can I use the one I have?
Can my LD player put out HD?
What about my Satilite receiver?

soi_01

07-03-05, 06:11 PM

Do I need an HD DVD player or can I use the one I have?
Can my LD player put out HD?
What about my Satilite receiver?

you can use your current dvd player, but you'll get mbetter picture by trading up to one that outputs at least 480p. Before I upgraded my dvd player for the 4312 I did a quick google search for dvd players, sony don't remeber model and samsung hd dvd850. Best Buy was sold out of the the sony so I bought the samsung 850. It's a very good dvd player w/ component outs, hdmi oust, etc. It'll output 480i, 480p, 720p, and 1080i. I liked the pictures generated by 720p, 480p and 1080i. It produces a much better image than my old interlaced sony dvd player. However, the manual states dvd input signal should be limited to 480p. www.ramelectronics.com sells very good hdmi\dvi, hdmi/hdmi cables, etc at a very reasonable price. they also sell an hdmi switchthat'll take multiple hdmi inputs. Don't know anything about laser disks.

Mike

soi_01

07-05-05, 10:38 PM

[/QUOTE]
Yeah, I don't know why Costco sold the 4345's for one week - they must have got a bunch. From order to delivery was 9 calendar days - my 4312 took a month.

Do you notice any difference in picture quality?

do you notoice

waltaz

07-06-05, 12:04 AM

Do you notice any difference in picture quality?

I believe the display panels are exactly the same. The settings are a little different and I haven't dialed mine in yet, so it's still a little dark.

Daylightdon

07-06-05, 08:24 AM

Where can I find a glossary of all the new terms and acronyms I hear and read?
eg HDMI etc.????

plasmatime

07-06-05, 01:28 PM

Has anyone seen the 4345 at their local costco? Will it be coming to B&M?

waltaz

07-06-05, 01:51 PM

Has anyone seen the 4345 at their local costco? Will it be coming to B&M?
I have not seen one at the local Costco's and don't think they'll be there. I think the 4345 was a one-time thing online.

pstrisik

07-07-05, 06:38 PM

waltaz

07-07-05, 11:49 PM

I just called Pioneer and was told that Costco is now an authorized internet dealer. This should mean that any Pios bought from Costco, internet or B&M, will be covered under the Pio warranty. I wonder if this will alter their return policy for the Pio plasmas?
I had understood that Costco was an authorized dealer and that the Pio warranty would appy.

No, the return policy will not change - that's a huge Costco selling point.

soi_01

07-09-05, 10:17 AM

I bought my 4312 about five weeks ago and I'm somewhat pertubed to 4345 was released so close to my 4312 purchase. How is the media cable attached to the screen/media box? It is removable? I only need a three foot cable instead of the nine foot cable. It sound like you're very pleased with the 4345. Do you think the 4312stand and speakers will fit on the 4345?

Mike
Yeah, I don't know why Costco sold the 4345's for one week - they must have got a bunch. From order to delivery was 9 calendar days - my 4312 took a month.

The media cable attaches via two VGA kind of connectors.
.[/QUOTE]

How many HDMI conections are available on the 4345 media box? The costco website states two are a available. Will you confirm this?

Mike

waltaz

07-09-05, 02:00 PM

How many HDMI conections are available on the 4345 media box? The costco website states two are a available. Will you confirm this?

Mike
Yep, there are two HDMI connections.

dcobb1

07-11-05, 05:35 PM

First off, beautiful TV. I've been ogling over it every time I went to a Costco for the past few months and finally made the plunge, couldn't be happier. Besides having great PQ, the thing looks very sexy (which is good because I have it mounted on a wall right above my fireplace. Very happy with the purchase. Was surprised by how simplistic the remote was, but it seems to be capable of doing everything, so fine by me. Only thing that's a bit frustrating is just the one HDMI & Component input.

Couple questions, my apologies if this has already been covered

1. Both my Comcast DVR and Samsung 841 DVD player support HDMI out. So which is better to connect via HDMI Cable or DVD player? Right now I’m using the DVR via Component cause I don't have the HDMI cable yet, but the DVD player which just arrived today comes with it. Also I don't have a gaming system yet, but in the event I do, what do I do next? Just use RCA connections?

2. For surround sound systems, can you simply run the center channel out from your amp and split it to each of the Pio's side speakers? I realize they are not meant to be a center channel speaker, but having my big center channel speaker sitting on top of this classy looking TV just looks goofy. Anyone else try this? Is there any reason I shouldn't try this? I realize it may not sound as good as a true center speaker, but it would look a lot nicer.

Thanks!

waltaz

07-11-05, 05:37 PM

Couple questions, my apologies if this has already been covered

1. Both my Comcast DVR and Samsung 841 DVD player support HDMI out. So which is better to connect via HDMI Cable or DVD player? Right now I’m using the DVR via Component cause I don't have the HDMI cable yet, but the DVD player which just arrived today comes with it. Also I don't have a gaming system yet, but in the event I do, what do I do next? Just use RCA connections?

2. For surround sound systems, can you simply run the center channel out from your amp and split it to each of the Pio's side speakers? I realize they are not meant to be a center channel speaker, but having my big center channel speaker sitting on top of this classy looking TV just looks goofy. Anyone else try this? Is there any reason I shouldn't try this? I realize it may not sound as good as a true center speaker, but it would look a lot nicer.

Thanks!
1. Do your HD cable STB/DVR via HDMI and your DVD via component
2. Don't know

soi_01

07-11-05, 10:31 PM

Couple questions, my apologies if this has already been covered

1. Both my Comcast DVR and Samsung 841 DVD player support HDMI out. So which is better to connect via HDMI Cable or DVD player? Right now I’m using the DVR via Component cause I don't have the HDMI cable yet, but the DVD player which just arrived today comes with it. Also I don't have a gaming system yet, but in the event I do, what do I do next? Just use RCA connections?
Thanks![/QUOTE]

Comcast HD DVR boxes I've seen have dvi out. Buy a cable that converts dvi to hdmi. I bought my cables from Ram Electronics - http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/DVI_monitor_cables.html. Very good quality stuff at very good prices - less than a third the cost of monster cable. Also, they sell a hdmi switchbox. multiple HDMIs from sources(s) to single HDMI on 4304. Also bought a component out cable to computer in. So, the 4304 has two component inputs and with hdmi switchbox it has multiple hdmi(s) in.

Mike

theueck

07-12-05, 10:04 AM

waltaz and others:

How does the HD and DVD PQ compare on the above? I have the 4312, bought it in March. Just curious.
thanks

jdebord

07-13-05, 08:14 PM

I was looking to get a plasma TV after finally getting our built-in cabinets "expanded"...

I already ordered some Yamaha speakers - the YSP-1. It is an all-in-one set that is long, and intended to sit in front of the set. I didn't realize that would pose a problem until I measured my space and factored in the speakers...

My space for the set and speakers is 32" high (another 1"+ behind the lip on the top), 40.5" wide, and 24" deep.

The Yamaha YSP-1 is 7.75" high, 40.5" wide, and 4.5" deep.

It seems like a few 42" plasmas will work, but the top of the speaker will fall just below the bottom of the screen. I can't picture if that will look bad or not.

Anyway, I was at Costco today checking out the PDP-4312, and looking at the back, it looked like the stand could be adjusted. It was displayed in the bottom hole, but it looked like it could go up two more notches, which would put the bottom of the screen at 7.75". If anyone could confirm or deny, I'd really appreciate it.

Any advice on how the speaker set up might look (good or bad) would be appreciated as well.

I'm hoping to buy a set tomorrow, and this and the similar sized plasma sold at Best Buy seemed to be the two that would work. This plasma (the Pioneer) happened to be the one I was looking at anyway (before I realized the space issues), so if it works out, that would be cool.

Thanks,

Jason

waltaz

07-14-05, 12:23 AM

waltaz and others:

How does the HD and DVD PQ compare on the above? I have the 4312, bought it in March. Just curious.
thanks
I believe the displays are the same, but the setting menus are different. So they set up "differently."

FWIW, my new 4345 seems a little "blacker," as I have not yet mastered the settings. I did run DVE on Input 3 Component, but I'm not convinced.

Walt

waltaz

07-14-05, 12:27 AM

My space for the set and speakers is 32" high (another 1"+ behind the lip on the top), 40.5" wide, and 24" deep.

Make sure to measure the width of the 4312. 40.5" might NOT be enough for it.

Anyway, I was at Costco today checking out the PDP-4312, and looking at the back, it looked like the stand could be adjusted. It was displayed in the bottom hole, but it looked like it could go up two more notches, which would put the bottom of the screen at 7.75". If anyone could confirm or deny, I'd really appreciate it.

Yes, the stand for the 4312 can be adjusted over two or three notches.

Keep in mind that with Costco, if it doesn't fit, or you don't like how it all looks, you can return it.

jdebord

07-14-05, 12:38 AM

Oops - I meant 62.5" wide in the cabinet! (that was the width of the Yamaha speaker)

Thanks for the info on the set - it is appreciated. I've nver bought from Costco, and they were telling me a bit about that policy while I was there. Their return policy is really that liberal?

Also, where should I buy some kind of extended warranty for the set? Is it necessary?

Thanks again,

Jason

waltaz

07-14-05, 10:00 AM

gmwedding

07-14-05, 12:15 PM

If I correctly understand your question (see below), the space available to fit a center channel speaker under the Costco 4312 stand indeed is limited -- to a scant 4.75 inches. Most full-sized, center channel speakers will not fit in this space, and you are left to consider smaller "micro" speaker systems, most of which may not have that "big screen" sound. I diligently searched for a diminutive center speaker for the Pio 4312 display stand, since our screen currently is not mounted on the wall. I finally found what I consider to be a nearly perfect solution -- a Monitor Audio center channel speaker that just fits this tight space.

Monitor Audio is a well-regarded Canadian manufacturer and their moderately-priced ($349) Radius 225 is stylishly designed to complement flat (LCD or plasma) screens. It can be mounted on walls or placed on shelves, as needed, and it can be used as either center and/or left/right mains, or even side surrounds. It also has built-in ports to attach a wall mount. So, the Radius 225 is wide and narrow (or tall and narrow) depending on your placement and use. Since it measures (in inches) 4.7h x 24w x 4.1d, it fits perfectly under a Pio 4312 stand that is raised to the highest (top notch) position!

The cabinet we purchased is in black lacquer, but three or four other finishes are available. Unfortunately, no flat black option that would perfectly match the 4312 monitor and stand is offered. However, once the black lacquer version is nestled under the display (on the 4312 stand), the finish is hardly noticeable, largely because a flat black grill covers most of the face. The speaker is a couple of inches wider than the monitor stand's bottom plate, but this is a minor issue for us, since everything is placed on a flat black TV stand/component cabinet in our den. With a plasma bias backlight added behind the whole assemply, the finish differences are barely noticeable in our setup.

Best of all, the Monitor Radius 225 has good specs -- 90dB/55-25Khz (+/-3db), And as luck would have it, the radius 225 delivers what is termed a 'bright' sound that just happened to match the timbre of four existing Boston Acoustics speakers we had already attachd to our HT system for left/right mains and side surrounds. This may not be a high-end audophile system, but it is not a budget, $300 speaker-in-a-box system either. We love the results.

I was looking to get a plasma TV after finally getting our built-in cabinets "expanded"...

I already ordered some Yamaha speakers - the YSP-1. It is an all-in-one set that is long, and intended to sit in front of the set. I didn't realize that would pose a problem until I measured my space and factored in the speakers...

My space for the set and speakers is 32" high (another 1"+ behind the lip on the top), 40.5" wide, and 24" deep.

The Yamaha YSP-1 is 7.75" high, 40.5" wide, and 4.5" deep.

It seems like a few 42" plasmas will work, but the top of the speaker will fall just below the bottom of the screen. I can't picture if that will look bad or not.

Anyway, I was at Costco today checking out the PDP-4312, and looking at the back, it looked like the stand could be adjusted. It was displayed in the bottom hole, but it looked like it could go up two more notches, which would put the bottom of the screen at 7.75". If anyone could confirm or deny, I'd really appreciate it.

Any advice on how the speaker set up might look (good or bad) would be appreciated as well.

I'm hoping to buy a set tomorrow, and this and the similar sized plasma sold at Best Buy seemed to be the two that would work. This plasma (the Pioneer) happened to be the one I was looking at anyway (before I realized the space issues), so if it works out, that would be cool.

Thanks,

Jason

brentley

07-14-05, 01:43 PM

Do you have a photo of what this setup looks like? it sounds like it would fit the bill perfectly and if it looks great I may just pick up one of these plasmas.

berkleegrad

07-15-05, 02:05 PM

2. For surround sound systems, can you simply run the center channel out from your amp and split it to each of the Pio's side speakers? I realize they are not meant to be a center channel speaker, but having my big center channel speaker sitting on top of this classy looking TV just looks goofy. Anyone else try this? Is there any reason I shouldn't try this? I realize it may not sound as good as a true center speaker, but it would look a lot nicer.

Dcobb1,

We've been using the Pio's side speakers as the center channel in just the same manner as you described since our purchase last month. It sounds pretty good - not as good as our Klipsch; but, since we are space limited this works much better than I expected it too ;).

hope this helps, -Rick

jdebord

07-15-05, 07:38 PM

kdb209

07-16-05, 02:08 AM

Thanks for the information.

Well, I have the Pio set - pretty nice looking, without even tweaking anything yet...

Quick question (couldn't find it in the manual) - can you make the side bars on 4:3 programming black instead of grey?

Thanks!

Jason

IIRC, Yes. If you read through all the Pio threads here there is a way through the service menu to change the pillarbox bars from grey to black. That was my original intention also, but I discovered that the "Wide" zoom mode does such a good job stretching 4:3 material in an unobtrusive way, I just use it nearly all the time for 4:3 material.

jdebord

07-16-05, 01:27 PM

Hmmm... I read through this thread last night and didn't spot that (it is quite a bit to read in one sitting!). If someone could point me to that bit, I'd really appreciate it!

Thanks again,

Jason

soi_01

07-16-05, 10:07 PM

Hmmm... I read through this thread last night and didn't spot that (it is quite a bit to read in one sitting!). If someone could point me to that bit, I'd really appreciate it!

Thanks again,

Jason

GRay bars reduce possibility of burn-in. Good idea to keep the gray bars.

Mike

Daylightdon

07-25-05, 08:03 AM

Many of the cable and satellite stations now have their logo superimposed in the lower right corner of the screen. Will this cause a "BURN-IN" of the logo on the plasma screen?

benjosevilla

07-25-05, 06:02 PM

pbenjamin

07-25-05, 07:41 PM

I had my unit for about 2 weeks now. There was a setting for the "orbiter". I turned it on with the impression that it will move the screen around when the display is not 100% (bars on the screen) to minimize burn in. I have yet seen it work. Is there a way to "disable" some to the input ports when "scrolling" through the list of available inputs. I use a universal remote and the TV/VIDEO key scrolls from input 1 to input 5. My Sony Wega CRT had an option to skip unused inputs.

I believe that the orbiter does a fairly subtle shift. I have never noticed it but there are people who post here who claim to have seen it. As to the remote, I don't think there is a way to skip unused inputs. I would suggest getting a remote that can send the discrete codes for each input. I use a Harmony remote and I can directly address the inputs (labeled "laptop", "DVR", "DVD", "VCR") that I want without having to cycle through them.

soi_01

07-26-05, 06:09 PM

Many of the cable and satellite stations now have their logo superimposed in the lower right corner of the screen. Will this cause a "BURN-IN" of the logo on the plasma screen?

It seems most broadcasters have redesigned their logos to reduce the possibility of burn-in. I've noticed some or all PBS logos are in different locations w/ some in the upper right hand corner. I've been using my 4312 for two months w/o burn-in. I reduced the brightness setting from dynamic to standard.

Mike

soi_01

07-26-05, 07:13 PM

I have not seen one at the local Costco's and don't think they'll be there. I think the 4345 was a one-time thing online.

Having watched the 4312 and the 4345 have you noticed any difference in PQ?

waltaz

07-27-05, 12:28 AM

Having watched the 4312 and the 4345 have you noticed any difference in PQ?
If anything, the 4312 was slightly better, but I had it more dialed in. I just have not really spent time on the 4345 yet. Don't get me wrong, it's great, I just think it can be better.

soi_01

07-27-05, 08:18 PM

If anything, the 4312 was slightly better, but I had it more dialed in. I just have not really spent time on the 4345 yet. Don't get me wrong, it's great, I just think it can be better.

The 4345 is still on the pio website. Does the media box generate a lot of noise?
I'd use it in a small 10' x 15' room.

I own a 4312 and have an unopened 4345 in my living room that I'm going to keep or send back unopened.

waltaz

07-28-05, 12:07 AM

The 4345 is still on the pio website. Does the media box generate a lot of noise?
I'd use it in a small 10' x 15' room.

I own a 4312 and have an unopened 4345 in my living room that I'm going to keep or send back unopened.
I have not noticed any noise at all from the media box. And I sit close to it.

benjosevilla

07-31-05, 02:40 AM

I was using the THX optimizer to calib the contrast. My DVD is progressive and is connected using the component input. I can move the contrast up or down but I could barely see the THX logo in the middle of the screen. By adjusting the contrast, you should be able to remove the back drop shadow of the THX logo. On my unit, I can barely see the logo! I tried this test on my old Wega 36" CRT (using the same DVD player) and I can easily see the THX logo from the black background. Any one else has this experience?

waltaz

07-31-05, 11:36 AM

vendetto

08-10-05, 01:43 PM

Can anyone tell me who is a calibrator and how to get him and what the price typically is?

chinatti

08-14-05, 11:48 AM

theueck

08-14-05, 08:35 PM

I have the exact same issue when powering up the 4312 and 6412. Once I change the channel, no problems.

Love the PQ with HD sports broadcasting. Had mine since March '05.

They've still got a few 4312's left in Marietta, Ga. Costco; couldn't keep them stocked.

Enjoy

benjosevilla

08-15-05, 12:23 PM

Just got my new PDP-4312 plugged in, and it looks pretty nice. A few questions.

I've noticed that occasionally, the TV seems to have trouble syncing up. It seems to be either the HD channels are shifted 50% right, so that you see the left half on the right and the right half on the left. On SD channels, it seems like sometimes I see only half the channel stretched dramatically across the screen. Changing the channel seems to fix things. Has anyone else seen any issues like this? I have a Comcast Motorola DCT-6412 dual tuner DVR, and I'm using DVI-HDMI adapter cable to connect to the set.

Also, I was just in Costco over the weekend, and it seems like they have a new 42" Pioneer (the PDP-4312s aren't available anymore). The new one is a PDP-4214HD. A quick look at the box indicated 1HDMI, and possibly two component inputs? Not sure, the markings were unclear. I couldn't find anything on the web on this model. Is anyone familiar with it? Just wondering if I should take advantage of the Costco return policy if the PDP-4214HD was a newer/better model. Anyone familiar with this model?

Thanks in advance

PS- Do I need to use anything in particular to clean smudges from the screen?

The sync issue I see with analog signals when I started using the HDMI input. I did not notice it with the component input. If the TV is turned on before the cable box, you won't see this sync issue. As what was said, changing channels also fixes the sync. Unfortunately, the COMCAST remote turns on the cable box before the TV when using the power button on the remote.

You can use glass cleaner if you need to. Spray the cleaner on the cloth and not on the screen then wipe off the smudge.

I like this set as well. As I posted earlier, the only adjustment issue I have is with the THX optimizer not displaying the THX logo (at least not visible) regardless of how I change the contrast and brightness.

Have you noticed that the volume is a lot lower on digital channels. I have to bump it up to 90% of max then I have to turn it back down on analog signals.

willjb77

08-15-05, 05:45 PM

pstrisik

08-16-05, 04:54 PM

Also, I was just in Costco over the weekend, and it seems like they have a new 42" Pioneer (the PDP-4312s aren't available anymore). The new one is a PDP-4214HD. A quick look at the box indicated 1HDMI, and possibly two component inputs? Not sure, the markings were unclear. I couldn't find anything on the web on this model. Is anyone familiar with it? Just wondering if I should take advantage of the Costco return policy if the PDP-4214HD was a newer/better model. Anyone familiar with this model?

Doing a quick search, I came up with a couple of references. One suggests that the 4314 might have a tuner: http://www.hdtv-info.org/forum/showpost.php?p=4061&postcount=3. Still likely based on the 434 panel.

The other is reference to the Pio parts site that seems to group the 4314 with the 4304: http://parts.pioneerelectronics.com/model.asp?modelNum=PDP4314&x=46&y=9.

The costco website has dropped the 4312. The only Pio listed is the 5040.

pstrisik

08-16-05, 04:57 PM

OK Im sure that this is going to be a stupid question, but i just purchased the Pioneer PDP-4304 and am wondering how to receive HD with it? do i just need to call the cable company and get a HD cable receiver?
Correct. You either need HD service from cable or satellite or an external tuner to pick up over the air HD broadcasts if you have them in your area.

If you get cable or satellite, they will provide you with a box/converter/decoder, whatever, to connect to your panel. You do have to make sure it's an HD capable box, but if you are subscribing to HD channels, I would hope they would point that out!

chinatti

08-16-05, 05:03 PM

Doing a quick search, I came up with a couple of references. One suggests that the 4314 might have a tuner: <url removed>. Still likely based on the 434 panel.

I'm guessing that poster really meant the 4312 (not 4314)...

The other is reference to the Pio parts site that seems to group the 4314 with the 4304: <url removed>

The model I saw was a 4214, not a 4314. It's a 42" model, not a 43" like the 4312.

I do see the PDP-4214HD listed on the Pioneer website, but not many parts are shown. Is there any place to download pioneer manuals online (to check out the features on this unit)?

The costco website has dropped the 4312. The only Pio listed is the 5040.

Right ... I saw this in my local store (Nashua, NH).

plasmatime

08-16-05, 05:09 PM

Is it HDTV or EDTV? I heard that Pio was going to release an ED model to Costco.

Also, did you happen to see whether it has a media box?

chinatti

08-16-05, 05:13 PM

Is it HDTV or EDTV? I heard that Pio was going to release an ED model to Costco.

Also, did you happen to see whether it has a media box?

Didn't get a chance to look too carefully, but I believe it was HD, with no media box.

A little poking around on the web, including the pioneer site mentioned above, lead me to believe that it *might* be the PDP-42A3HD rebranded for Costco, but that's just a hunch. That model includes an HD tuner as the earlier post indicated.....

pstrisik

08-16-05, 07:55 PM

The model I saw was a 4214, not a 4314. It's a 42" model, not a 43" like the 4312.
Oops, I looked right through the 42. It may be based on the 424 then:
http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pna/service/support/article/0,,2076_4259_243869887,00.html

berkleegrad

08-29-05, 08:21 AM

Greetings All,

What is the recommend Pioneer wall mount for the PDP 4304/4312, and how much top ;clearance do I need to install the unit with the mount?

After confusing myself with research :) , I could NOT determine if I needed the: Pioneer PWM-1011 or the PDWB-5003.

My concern is that I've been "too smart by half" :eek: - the Pio is slated to be mounted in a niche that has about 3/4 of an inch clearance all the way around. Some of the after market wall mounts require between 16" - 20" top clearance to "slide the unit on too the brackets. Are there any wall mount units that don't require so much vertical clearance? Can this unit be mounted directly on the wall WITHOUT a mounting bracket?

thanks in advance

JayMan007

08-31-05, 03:59 PM

Edited:

Pricing and Discount talk is not allowed!

testudo

09-08-05, 10:49 AM

A couple questions. But first off, lucky enough to have found a Costco where these units were consolidated, as it looks like there are few left. Returned a 50" Akai that was unaccaptable for viewing anything less than 720P - gotta love Costco!

Secondly, thanks to all for posting the service menu settings and how to's.

1) Based on the default service menu settings being different for each set, do I need to match the posted ISF tech's setting to the numerical value or the delta from my set's default values?

For example, if the posted settings are (new/default) 150/155 and my set's default is 170, do I dial down the value to 150 to match the posted setting or just the -5 delta (# of clicks) to 165?

My AV receiver, Denon AVR1705, upconverts S-Video to component output. I'd like to take advantage of this and exclusively use the component input on the monitor (Input 5) since there's no posted service menu settings/tweaks for Input 3. For the time being I'm stuck with an SD signal from my D*TV, no clear signal for HD - darn trees - have to wait for new mpeg4 birds to be activated.

2) Does the analog (S-Video) to digital (Component) conversion degrade the signal? Trying to determine if I should run everything through the Denon or straight to the display.

Any insight is appreciated.