Isn't SXRD just a newer type of LCD? It replaced the 3rd generation of Sony WEGA LCD's so I figured SXRD was just some proprietary Sony LCD technology, no ?From what I've read it's Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCoS), which I believe is actually an older technology than DLP.

It looks great to my eyes, but it is bigger and bulkier in the rear than a comparable DLP or LCD.

It's the fairest way to compare sets. If the manufacturer doesn't think enough of it to Factory Default it to a reasonable PQ when it goes through QC, they probably didn't do a very good job assembling it anyway...

Probably more of a matter of economics.

Does make you wonder what the manufacturers are thinking. Save a few bucks on manufacturing cost and loose sales to Sony or spend the bucks and stand a better chance of selling their sets.

Sunday CC flyer in Orlando Sentinel shows 60" for the 50" msrp. Obviously a mis-print. But FYI if you can use it in price negotiations.

Sunday CC flyer in Orlando Sentinel shows 60" for the 50" msrp. Obviously a mis-print. But FYI if you can use it in price negotiations.


They also have no interest till 2008 advertised in todays flyer ......nice bargaining
tool hopefully.

In my ad they list the 50" at it's suggested retail price with no interest unitl 2008.

I just looked closer and it says 50" SXRD at the retail price we know, but the model number is for the 60" set.

In my ad they list the 50" at it's suggested retail price with no interest unitl 2008.

I just looked closer and it says 50" SXRD at the retail price we know, but the model number is for the 60" set.


Thats not the case in the ohio ad .. its all about the 60". Think I'll go stir them up this afternoon.

Sunday CC flyer in Orlando Sentinel shows 60" for the 50" msrp. Obviously a mis-print. But FYI if you can use it in price negotiations.


Here in New JERSEY. It states 60 inch Grand Wega SXRD and the model number in tiny print KDSR60XBR1 3999.99 with no payments till 2008.
Go Get them

Same here in WNY - $3999.99 for the 60". I'm sure it's a mistake, but even at that price CC will make a profit. Hell, the Internet guys are selling it for this and LESS, and I assume CC has more buying power than just about anybody. When you think of it, with all due respect to Sony, that's probably about what this TV and technology are worth. Hell, you can get a 55" plasma from Hitachi for about the same price, and you won't need a bulb a year.

Same here in WNY - $3999.99 for the 60". I'm sure it's a mistake, but even at that price CC will make a profit. Hell, the Internet guys are selling it for this and LESS, and I assume CC has more buying power than just about anybody. When you think of it, with all due respect to Sony, that's probably about what this TV and technology are worth. Hell, you can get a 55" plasma from Hitachi for about the same price, and you won't need a bulb a year.

Same here in the Boston Area. Circuit City flyer for Oct. 30 has a picture of the 60" Sony Grand Wega SXRD, the description says 60" and the part number is KDSR60XBR1. And it says in large print 3999.99.

Not sure how to make this work in our favor. It's clearly a mistake, but how do you take advantage of it?

Same here in the Boston Area. Circuit City flyer for Oct. 30 has a picture of the 60" Sony Grand Wega SXRD, the description says 60" and the part number is KDSR60XBR1. And it says in large print 3999.99.

Not sure how to make this work in our favor. It's clearly a mistake, but how do you take advantage of it?
If CC won't honor it (my local store already has a sign in front of the 60XBR1 saying "sorry, we meant the 50-inch") then take it to Best Buy or another local retailer and get them to pricematch it. If you're lucky, they won't bother calling to verify the price -- after all, it is printed in the official flyer. I just did this to pricematch the set I already bought at BB, and had no problems. You probably need to move fast on this, though. The longer you wait, the more likely someone at the store will have called CC to check on the price and found out it's a mistake.

Can we stop spamming every sxrd thread with this? Theres no need to copy/paste what you posted in one thread to another. You post it once...people will see it, thats good enough.

If CC won't honor it (my local store already has a sign in front of the 60XBR1 saying "sorry, we meant the 50-inch") then take it to Best Buy or another local retailer and get them to pricematch it. If you're lucky, they won't bother calling to verify the price -- after all, it is printed in the official flyer. I just did this to pricematch the set I already bought at BB, and had no problems. You probably need to move fast on this, though. The longer you wait, the more likely someone at the store will have called CC to check on the price and found out it's a mistake.

Yes, Circuit City is claiming it is a "misprint" and they will not honor the price. It is $4699.99. So, if they all claim it's a "misprint" and they're not responsible, I'm not sure what can be done with it... :mad:

3999.00 shouldn't be a mistake. I paid less than that at PC Richards in Commack, NY.

If CC won't honor it (my local store already has a sign in front of the 60XBR1 saying "sorry, we meant the 50-inch") then take it to Best Buy or another local retailer and get them to pricematch it.
I just returned from my local Best Buy. They happily matched the price from the CC printed ad and my set will be delivered tomorrow.

I just returned from my local Best Buy. They happily matched the price from the CC printed ad and my set will be delivered tomorrow.


Edit ..... to meet this forums rules sorry for this mistake ..........

I grabbed one at Sears with price match plus 10% .... no prob at all...

Hurry, Hurry, Hurry! Grab your Doggies while they hot, Dudes! just don't cry later if they speck to puppies in Dog's Wool ;)

I grabbed one at Sears with price match plus 10% .... no prob at all...

Just got back from Great Indoors and Ultimate Electronics. GI said they would price match the CC $1k off but UE said they wouldn't because it was a mistake. When I asked the UE guy what he could do for me, he said that if I bought a stand, he could give me 36 months no interest but I pay retail for the TV and stand. I told him if he gave me $800 off the TV and stand together. I would buy right there. He went off to his manager and got the thumbs down. No wonder they are in bankruptcy.

I'm not in the market right now (Feb/March new house gets done) but if everybody is dealing like crazy right now, can you imagine what it will be like right after the holidays?

BTW: The UE guys really don't have a clue. The salesman kept telling my brother that the SXRD's picture was worse than the Sammy 67 series. I asked him to explain why he thought that he said "Just look for yourself." A guy standing next to us laughed and told him needed to get his glasses checked.

Same here in the Boston Area. Circuit City flyer for Oct. 30 has a picture of the 60" Sony Grand Wega SXRD, the description says 60" and the part number is KDSR60XBR1. And it says in large print 3999.99.

Not sure how to make this work in our favor. It's clearly a mistake, but how do you take advantage of it?
Best Buy in NY has the 60" on display in the store marked $3999.99

When the sku ran it came up $4799.99. When I asked why it was higher, they changed it to $3999.99. No problem.

Good Guys here in SF (19th avenue @ Stonestown) has the 60''s listed for $3999 as well.

What makes you so sure its a mistake?

Can anyone direct me to a good AV store in Indianapolis? The only one I can find is Ovation, and they just filed Chapter 11, so not sure what their currently inventory is like. Really hoping to see anSXRD in a good setting, or the ultimate would be to see a Qualia in person.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

I would check a Sony Style Store. In NY every Sony store that I have been to has had a qualia on display.

Hurry, Hurry, Hurry! Grab your Doggies while they hot, Dudes! just don't cry later if they speck to puppies in Dog's Wool ;)

i took advantage of this and am super pumped! I had to go to 2 sears (laguna hills mall sears turned me down -- south coast plaza sears let me have it -- matched + 10%).

weeeeeeeeeee

any chance someone is willing to scan in the ad and pm me? thx

The ad is available on the Circuit City web site.

Roy

The ad is available on the Circuit City web site.

Roy

They must have corrected it as it now says its the 50" model for that price (at least the Columbus, OH ad says that).

The actual image of the ad says 60", but the description you see in the browser says 50.

if you live near a circuit city you can get the flyer right at the store, usually they're right up front.

Yup the corrected the Flash pop up to say 50, it definately said 60 yesterday, which the add still does on that page...

i took advantage of this and am super pumped! I had to go to 2 sears (laguna hills mall sears turned me down -- south coast plaza sears let me have it -- matched + 10%).

weeeeeeeeeee

Are you saying that you got this (60xbr1) set at 3999 less 10%??

KP

Are you saying that you got this (60xbr1) set at 3999 less 10%??

KP
I think he means a 110% pricematch. I.e., if the store has it for $5000, and you pricematch using a competitor's ad for $4000, then they'll subtract 110% of the difference, which would be $1100, for a final price of $3900.

I REALLY need a copy of that add if somone should be so kind..:)
Ways to get it:
1) If you've got a Circuit City near you, they should have stacks of flyers at the front of the store, and you can just grab one.

2) Go to www.circuitcity.com and click on "Weekly Ad" at the top right. Pick the Flash or HTML formats, browse to page 2 (at least on my local version of the flyer) and print. For me, it's still showing the info for the 60" next to the $3999 price.

Ways to get it:
1) If you've got a Circuit City near you, they should have stacks of flyers at the front of the store, and you can just grab one.

2) Go to www.circuitcity.com and click on "Weekly Ad" at the top right. Pick the Flash or HTML formats, browse to page 2 (at least on my local version of the flyer) and print. For me, it's still showing the info for the 60" next to the $3999 price.

Thanks Igot it :) WOW!!!

Please guys, to avoid so much repetition, can you please take the discussions about CC pricing over to the other thread here...
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=597457
Thanks. :)

Hey, they killed that thread! Guess those weasels at Circuit City got them to shut it down! Boycott any Circuit City that won't honor the advertised price because it is not selling it at a loss. They still make money on $3999. :mad:

Hey, they killed that thread! Guess those weasels at Circuit City got them to shut it down! Boycott any Circuit City that won't honor the advertised price because it is not selling it at a loss. They still make money on $3999. :mad:
These types of posts scare me around election day when I'm reminded how liberal the rules for exercising our franchise are. :eek:

These types of posts scare me around election day when I'm reminded how liberal the rules for exercising our franchise are. :eek:
Ah, but AVSForum is not a democracy, last I checked. And I have to confess, we've all been pretty flagrant in violating the "post no prices other than MSRP" rule on this thread, not to mention the one that was deleted... :o

Welp, lurking here paid off. I went to Best Buy a few hours ago to grab a 60" at this amazing price. I walk to the back of the store and they actually had the sticker price at $3999. I asked for that price plus a $500 gift card, free delivery and $200 for the 4-year warranty as someone else here also got. I told him I wanted the $500 stand as well and to get me a discount on it also.
He said they lowered the price only for yesterday to price match Circuit City's screwup and wasn't sure if that price was still good. So he went and talked to the store manager and came back and said that they were supposed to have taken the sign down, but the manager approved since the price was on the tv and that I'd be the last to get it at that price. He said they can't discount the warranties, but he could give me 10% off anything and free shipping. I ended up paying about $5k when all was said and done. I also did the no interest until January 08. They had everything in stock and delivery is on Friday!

My tweeter didn't price match the ad because it was a mistake. Though they told me to come back around the 11-13 or black friday.

These types of posts scare me around election day when I'm reminded how liberal the rules for exercising our franchise are. :eek:

So, you're against free speech or for it? Because you aren't being very clear...or perhaps you're a fan of Circuit City or do not believe in boycotts?

The only thing that should scare you today is Trick or Treaters. ;) Certainly, not posts on a public forum (that is controlled by people who do not like us to talk about pricing)... :eek:

That's pretty dumb to remove that thread. So much for free speech on the internet.



:rolleyes:

If I had a dime for every time I have seen this type of post......

You are on AVS Forum! It has rules of conduct that you agree to abide by when you signed up! One of which was not to post prices. There is NO right to "Free Speech" here. In fact, you have no right to post here PERIOD! You are here because the owners of this forum allow you to be here.

If you don't like the rules, you should not have agreed to them when you signed up.

Sorry for the rant, but I am tired of seeing these types of posts.

Oh, and welcome to the forum! :D

:rolleyes:

If I had a dime for every time I have seen this type of post......

You are on AVS Forum! It has rules of conduct that you agree to abide by when you signed up! One of which was not to post prices. There is NO right to "Free Speech" here. In fact, you have no right to post here PERIOD! You are here because the owners of this forum allow you to be here.

If you don't like the rules, you should not have agreed to them when you signed up.

Sorry for the rant, but I am tired of seeing these types of posts.

Oh, and welcome to the forum! :D

While you are factually correct, you omit the fact that the rule isn't uniformly enforced.

Everyone knows a serious component of AV enthusiasm is the price or cost of pursuing this passion (whether it be financial or otherwise).

It's my guess that the Forum owners see traffic on certain threads and handle it with kid gloves if the thread has other merits and it contributes to the overall popularity of the forums.

So, don't pull out the old "rules are rules" when the rule isn't always enforced and everyone knows it... :)

Alright, I'm dropping the previous discussion and changing the topic. :D

So, everyone who hasn't already bought one of these sets, why haven't you bought it? :confused:

Is it only about the cost of the set, or is something else holding you back? :p

You tell me your reservations, and I'll tell you mine! :cool:

Alright, I'm dropping the previous discussion and changing the topic. :D

So, everyone who hasn't already bought one of these sets, why haven't you bought it? :confused:

Is it only about the cost of the set, or is something else holding you back? :p

You tell me your reservations, and I'll tell you mine! :cool:

2 things...

1. Blue hue problem mentioned in the owners thread (don't know if it really is a problem though)
2. I want to see the JVC set...(1080p inputs?????)

Alright, I'm dropping the previous discussion and changing the topic. :D

So, everyone who hasn't already bought one of these sets, why haven't you bought it? :confused:

Is it only about the cost of the set, or is something else holding you back? :p

You tell me your reservations, and I'll tell you mine! :cool:

Actually I was out this past weekend looking at these sets, and remembered the prob with blue hue, etc. I started looking at the plasmas again. Guess what? I am totally rethinking my position on plasmas. I've been reading about their pros and cons, and they certainly have come a long way. There is no disputing that the pictures are great. I will be certainly looking more closely at them later this week. Oh, one last plus...the prices have been dropping so they are very competitive with the SXRD and others right now.
Let me know if anyone else has been reconsidering the plasmas since even the SXRD has some drawbacks.

umm, I wouldn't call $9000 for a 60" plasma and $4000 for the 60" SXRD competitive.

Statistics given by the manufacturers are claiming 60000 hrs of life for a plasma. However, after 30000 hrs the picture will be only 50% as bright, compared to when the plasma was new.

I would be surprised if the numbers given are accurate. Plasma is a throw away
toy, and should be priced as such.

Everybody and their brother and their brothers dogs are putting out a plasma display. Why? Because the profit margins are HUGE!!!!!

The SXRD's will outlast any plasma. When it comes time to replace it, I will move it to the basement where it will play and play and play.

SDE will always kill plasma for me. Even if the price and small possibility of burn in didn't bother me first. Though I would assume my biggest burn in concern would be convergence grids... which I wouldn't need with a plasma.

There are some nice looking Plasma displays, but they are expensive and don't have a lot of options in the 60" range. If you are looking for something in the 50" range, then at least you've got some options.

Talking about plasma's deteriorating over time, let's not forget the SXRD sets have a bulb that will slowly burn out. So, you'll have to replace it (250 bucks) and before it dies your picture will get progressively less impressive.

I hadn't seen the blue hue issue before in the owner's thread. That is a distressing assertion some owners are making. Nobody wants to see streaks of blue in their blacks.

Personally, I have some issues with the sets resolution at close range. The Qualia's resolution holds up pretty well under scrutinity. But the 60" XBR SXRD image does not look very crisp within 5 or 6 feet of the screen. Granted, I won't be sitting that close, but do people think that is acceptable?

Five feet with a hi-def signal is still crystal clear.

Five feet with a hi-def signal is still crystal clear.

I was in a Circuit City last night watching FOX HD (Comcast CH.825) of the Philadelphia Eagles at Denver Broncos fottball game. The 60" SXRD set was connected directly to the digital cable box. They were actually trying to feed it the best possible signal from Comcast digital. At 10' - 12' I would give the picture an 8 (out of 10). At 5' - 6' I would give the picture a 6.5 TOPS. :eek:

comcast sucks......

What picture is your 10?

umm, I wouldn't call $9000 for a 60" plasma and $4000 for the 60" SXRD competitive.

Umm, was actually thinking of buying a 50" plasma instead of a 50" SXRD ;)

What picture is your 10?

Honestly, I don't think I've seen a 10! :p

I would give the Qualia 006 a 9. It also isn't perfect, but the quality of the image is phenomenal...

Statistics given by the manufacturers are claiming 60000 hrs of life for a plasma. However, after 30000 hrs the picture will be only 50% as bright, compared to when the plasma was new.

I would be surprised if the numbers given are accurate. Plasma is a throw away
toy, and should be priced as such.

Everybody and their brother and their brothers dogs are putting out a plasma display. Why? Because the profit margins are HUGE!!!!!

The SXRD's will outlast any plasma. When it comes time to replace it, I will move it to the basement where it will play and play and play.

Er...I'm usually pretty delicate...but this person has no idea what they are talking about.

"Huge" profit margins on plasma? Are you kidding? The competition is so cut-throat and margins so small that some of the best known plasma makers are cutting back or dropping out completely from the game.

And the rating for plasma is half brightness at 60,000 hours, not 30,000 hours.! At 6 hours of viewing a day that's 27 years of use! Before that time comes you will have replaced either a plasma or SXRD should you buy it today.

You should do a bit more research before you spend your money. Not that you shouldn't buy an SXRD which is awesome, but at least you can make a more informed decision. And there's no point in creating any confusion for other people here.

Er...I'm usually pretty delicate...but this person has no idea what they are talking about.

"Huge" profit margins on plasma? Are you kidding? The competition is so cut-throat and margins so small that some of the best known plasma makers are cutting back or dropping out completely from the game.

And the rating for plasma is half brightness at 60,000 hours, not 30,000 hours.! At 6 hours of viewing a day that's 27 years of use! Before that time comes you will have replaced either a plasma or SXRD should you buy it today.

You should do a bit more research before you spend your money. Not that you shouldn't buy an SXRD which is awesome, but at least you can make a more informed decision. And there's no point in creating any confusion for other people here.


Very true. Plasmas have become very cutthroat - profit margins on Microdisplays are much larger, but will also shrink in the coming years with better product and increased competition.

I'm not in the market right now (Feb/March new house gets done) but if everybody is dealing like crazy right now, can you imagine what it will be like right after the holidays?

It could be great, but it could also be a letdown.

You've had a HUGE increase in supply, but it's been met by demand. If consumers have finally tapped their last dollar of HELOC's, then you could see a big demand fall-off in early '06. Combined with a slowing economy, you could see big drops in TV prices.

As the huge increase in supply for plasmas and LCD's starts to come on stream, it should -- to some extent -- weaken pricing for newer 1080P and new models (but being new, they will resist cuts to some extent). The fact that we are all hot for the SXRD set is very telling -- but fortunately, the average consumer, who doesn't know better, just wants "an HDTV" and will get a decent (not top-end) model for a good price (probably under $2,500-$3,000). So this demand won't hit the SXRD models to the same extent we saw DLP vs Grand Wega pricing and switching in 2003 and 2004.

However, to the extent that we're talking about a high-end model -- sort of like high-end real estate -- we could fall alot less than mid-priced or older (i.e., 720P) models .

Also, take into account the dollar. If the dollar holds steady or rises, you'll see some nice price declines after the holidays regardless of the supply/demand situation listed above. But if the dollar falls, it could negate any positive price reductions from supply/demand -- that's what happened in late 2004 and early 2005 when the dollar swooned (remember, foreign manufacturers want a set amount of local currency and if the dollar falls, the need to charge MORE in dollars for the same yen/yuan/won/whatever). Finally, just a reminder -- the Japanese fiscal year is March 31st, so you could see some big discounting in February/March as Sony tries to close the books.

Alright, I'm dropping the previous discussion and changing the topic. :D So, everyone who hasn't already bought one of these sets, why haven't you bought it? :confused: Is it only about the cost of the set, or is something else holding you back? : p You tell me your reservations, and I'll tell you mine! :cool:

My job situation is in flux and I have a sick family member. Actually, if things turn up, I'd like to buy this set for the family member as I think he'd love to watch sports on it. And he's only 25 minutes away!

I've actually been wondering now that the SXRD is the killer-TV on AVS if maybe I want to sit back and wait and see if the older Grand Wega 720P models come down alot in price. OK, they're not a "10" on a scale of 1-10 like the SXRD but they're certainly an 8 or 9. I'm still not sure from AVS if the older Grand Wegas @ 720P are still being made or if I'm seeing older stock at CC, BB, and PCR.

If I can get a 55" XS model -- the "hot" model last year at this time as I recall -- for 1/2 the price of an SXRD, that'd be a tough choice. Can you go wrong buying the super-hot model 1 year later even if something has supplanted it?

For that kind of savings, I might be willing to find out.

problem with blue hue, etc. I started looking at the plasmas again. Guess what? I am totally rethinking my position on plasmas.

Without duplicating junk over at the Owners Thread, in a nutshell, what's this "blue hue" thing?

While you are factually correct, you omit the fact that the rule isn't uniformly enforced.

Everyone knows a serious component of AV enthusiasm is the price or cost of pursuing this passion (whether it be financial or otherwise).

It's my guess that the Forum owners see traffic on certain threads and handle it with kid gloves if the thread has other merits and it contributes to the overall popularity of the forums.

So, don't pull out the old "rules are rules" when the rule isn't always enforced and everyone knows it... :)

Oh, I agree that the rule isn't always enforced 100% of the time. But that isn't the point at all, is it?

What I took exception to was the idea that somehow people were being deprived of their First Amendment rights to Free Speech, which is ludicrous. Whether the rules are uniformly enforced is another issue altogether.

Oh, I agree that the rule isn't always enforced 100% of the time. But that isn't the point at all, is it?

What I took exception to was the idea that somehow people were being deprived of their First Amendment rights to Free Speech, which is ludicrous. Whether the rules are uniformly enforced is another issue altogether.

Are we discussing SXRDs or torts and injuries? :-)

The rules about not mentioning anything related to price are in sticky in this area, not in the main forum rules. Now that I have read the sticky I edited my comment to respect those that own the forum and those that read it.

Hopefully you will be mature enough to remove your whiny and unrelated comments and follow the rules as well.

Oh, I agree that the rule isn't always enforced 100% of the time. But that isn't the point at all, is it?

What I took exception to was the idea that somehow people were being deprived of their First Amendment rights to Free Speech, which is ludicrous. Whether the rules are uniformly enforced is another issue altogether.

Are we discussing SXRDs or torts and injuries? :-)

Were you injured while installing your SXRD XBR TV? Did your jaw hit the floor and loosen some fillings? Did one of those outrageously large speakers poke you in the eye? Did you bang your head on the screen while becoming immersed in reruns of Baywatch? Call 1-800-XBR-PAIN! :D

There are some nice looking Plasma displays, but they are expensive and don't have a lot of options in the 60" range. If you are looking for something in the 50" range, then at least you've got some options.

Talking about plasma's deteriorating over time, let's not forget the SXRD sets have a bulb that will slowly burn out. So, you'll have to replace it (250 bucks) and before it dies your picture will get progressively less impressive.

I hadn't seen the blue hue issue before in the owner's thread. That is a distressing assertion some owners are making. Nobody wants to see streaks of blue in their blacks.

Personally, I have some issues with the sets resolution at close range. The Qualia's resolution holds up pretty well under scrutinity. But the 60" XBR SXRD image does not look very crisp within 5 or 6 feet of the screen. Granted, I won't be sitting that close, but do people think that is acceptable?

Never seen a plasma without obscene SDE. I'm not worried about the bulb as I bought an extended warrenty which covers that (the only reason I got the warrentee).

My set looks fine from 5-6 feet depending on the source. And that's with a SA 8000HD via component and the box doesn't do great component output. I don't have any blue hue problems. The only thing i feel that makes the qualia any better is it had a glass screen compared to the xbr1's screen which can cause silk screen and cause the picture to be slightly softer.

Oh, and I would never rate a set's PQ based on FUX... FOX. Their HD is terrible.

Interesting article on Sony's future:

http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/thr/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1001393147

Personally, I have some issues with the sets resolution at close range. The Qualia's resolution holds up pretty well under scrutinity. But the 60" XBR SXRD image does not look very crisp within 5 or 6 feet of the screen. Granted, I won't be sitting that close, but do people think that is acceptable?

I would have no problem with you saying "the one or two I've seen, given their feed and setup, were not very crisp within 5 or 6 feet".

However, despite the fact that's it's been 40 years since my undergraduate classes in statistics; I do remember that you can't make sweeping generalizations about something after a sample of one or two (i.e., 60" SXRD image does not look very crisp within 5 or 6 feet).

Mine is setup properly. How good it looks at 5 or 6 feet is pretty much totally dependent upon the quality of the feed. By the way, from what I've read about Comcast, their feed would be pretty limiting.

There's been a few conversations in a few threads about why the XBR's imaging appears to be softer than the Qualia.

High on that list has to be the fact that the SXRD panels on the XBR is smaller than the Qualia's (0.61" vs 0.78").

Other possible reasons include the aforementioned screen material. Other speculation has included the quality of the optics and the scaler.

Anyway, FOX HD does stink, so I won't try defending the quality of the feed. And, as always, I agree that the quality of the material, the component feeding the material, and the interface from the component to the display all matter where PQ is concerned... :)

So, everyone who hasn't already bought one of these sets, why haven't you bought it? :confused:

Is it only about the cost of the set, or is something else holding you back? :p

You tell me your reservations, and I'll tell you mine! :cool:


I am still interested in these Sonys but I have problems with wasted width- Dumbos. Also, I’m not under any “pressure” to replace my current HD set. I guess I’m just like the average AVSer- the best one can afford ASAP. I can buy now or I can wait several months. That said I would have tremendous buyers remorse if I didn’t wait a bit to check out the brand new JVC’s. By the way, they were just posted on their web site.

And also, the unusually short bulb life reported in the other JVC DILIA thread, presents a major concern for me with these sets. Don’t tell me about warrantees either. One way or another, if you want uninterrupted viewing, you will have to fork over cash for a spare bulb. It is an issue.

The other thing that has stalled my decision has been the 50” Plasmas. The prices have become very attractive and I prefer their wider viewing angels.
Give me a 65” Plasma with similar tempting pricing and I’m in, (duh) but I don’t think I’ll be waiting that long.

And also, the unusually short bulb life reported in the other JVC DILIA thread, presents a major concern for me with these sets. Don’t tell me about warrantees either. One way or another, if you want uninterrupted viewing, you will have to fork over cash for a spare bulb. It is an issue.

I was going to say something about this myself, but then I thought better of it.

BUT, now that you've brought it up...people you may have a warranty but you've got to keep a spare bulb around! If your bulb blows out, you've got no TV. If it is a non-Sony over 1 year warranty, you've got to place a call and wait for the technician. How long until they come to your house? Will they bring the bulb or order one after the visit? How long until they're back with the replacement bulb? We could be talking about several days or a week!!! Who can go without their TV set that long?

JVC...aren't you concerned about the quality issues?

...If your bulb blows out, you've got no TV.... We could be talking about several days or a week!!! Who can go without their TV set that long?



My point exactly. Regardless of the manufacturer, these bulbs go and that is a reality that concerns me.

Geeze, I’d have one spare bulb and another spare bulb in my “go bag.” :eek: And then- then I’d deal with replacing those with the warranty

Er...I'm usually pretty delicate...but this person has no idea what they are talking about.

"Huge" profit margins on plasma? Are you kidding? The competition is so cut-throat and margins so small that some of the best known plasma makers are cutting back or dropping out completely from the game.

And the rating for plasma is half brightness at 60,000 hours, not 30,000 hours.! At 6 hours of viewing a day that's 27 years of use! Before that time comes you will have replaced either a plasma or SXRD should you buy it today.

You should do a bit more research before you spend your money. Not that you shouldn't buy an SXRD which is awesome, but at least you can make a more informed decision. And there's no point in creating any confusion for other people here.

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=10000087&sid=aRpw9kBfcbXI


Strong companies with good management are reaping huge profits. Check out this link. Competition is what makes business. The weak get crushed and the strong survive.

What is the right price for any product? Does it matter how much it costs to make? NO!
The right price is what ever the market will bare, and that is why the strong companies are running up huge profit growth on plasma.

Sony television sales have been shrinking in a market that is seeing huge growth. They have a lot riding on this SXRD technology.

It seems that you beleive everything you read. Just because companies are saying that they have extended the life cycle of plasma does not make it so. I have been through airports where the plasma panels are on 24/7. Panasonic panels that are very hard to see during the day after 3 years. Not 30 years!

Maxent, Norcent,Sansui,Akai....why are these names even in the plasma business?

I have answered the question for myself - and the answer is Hitachi 55" plasma.

The bulb thing, the styling (the huge side speakers set off from the display adding a foot to the width of the TV are a deal breaker), the "look" of the cabinet from the side (can you say old Revel model), and the soft PQ I've noted (takes me back to the first RPTVs). Nope.

I have answered the question for myself - and the answer is Hitachi 55" plasma.

The bulb thing, the styling (the huge side speakers set off from the display adding a foot to the width of the TV are a deal breaker), the "look" of the cabinet from the side (can you say old Revel model), and the soft PQ I've noted (takes me back to the first RPTVs). Nope.

So, you're looking at the 55HDX62 - 55" CineForm Director's Series?

You're going to skip 1080 resolution and go with 768?

anyone know how turning on/off effects life of the bulb?

Since some of the rear projection LCD/DLP sets have been out a while, has there been any information about the average life people are getting out of these bulb sets?

A $4000-$5000 TV plus $250 per year (or there abouts) for a bulb seems expensive, to me at least. Not very encouraging. Those closeout CRT televisions are looking very attractive.

Where has it been established that the SXRD bulbs will only last a year or so -- which might be 1,000 - 2,000 hours.

That seems very low to me.

What's the experience been on bulbs on the Grand WEGA LCD series -- once they got the good ones in, that is.

Are the rear speakers detachable? If not, any reason why Sony decided to have them stick out so far -- they had to know that would tee off people who are fanatic about minimizing the excess area around the screen proper.

Where has it been established that the SXRD bulbs will only last a year or so -- which might be 1,000 - 2,000 hours.

That seems very low to me.

What's the experience been on bulbs on the Grand WEGA LCD series -- once they got the good ones in, that is.


Over 6,000 hrs

Somewhere between 8,500 and 9,000 hours currently on my GWII (the problems only started with the GWIII series).

There has been some anecdotal information about the Qualia 006 bulbs already burning out. And the Qualia isn't even a year old...

However, the Qualia bulb is also 200W and burning a LOT hotter, because the XBR only has a 120W bulb.

And, for everyone who doesn't already know, there is both a warm up period for these bulbs and a cool down period, whenever the set is turned on or off.

There's been a few conversations in a few threads about why the XBR's imaging appears to be softer than the Qualia.

High on that list has to be the fact that the SXRD panels on the XBR is smaller than the Qualia's (0.61" vs 0.78").

Other possible reasons include the aforementioned screen material. Other speculation has included the quality of the optics and the scaler.

Anyway, FOX HD does stink, so I won't try defending the quality of the feed. And, as always, I agree that the quality of the material, the component feeding the material, and the interface from the component to the display all matter where PQ is concerned... :)

By the very nature of a Forum (in many cases it's the blind leading the blind) you can find conversations on many crazy theories.

Panels/chips get smaller with every generation. First time I've heard that leads to softer images.

Scaler is the same for Qualia and new SXRD's. Optics are different; but SXRD does not have bad optics.

Up close, the difference would definitely be the screen. "Pick your poison". The SXRD screen is much less reflective but provides a somewhat "softer" image when you are very close to the screen. From normal viewing distance, the softer image should be difficult to see. In my case, I will definitely take the less reflective screen. My prior HD set, a Mits RPTV, had a very reflective screen which was a distraction for four years. Given a choice between the Qualia screen and the SXRD screen, I would pick the SXRD screen for my viewing environment (large family room with lots of large, north facing windows to deal with during the day and open to a kitchen with under cabinent lighting visible at night). That doesn't mean I wouldn't pick the Qualia screen for a dedicated, dark home theatre environment.

Anyone can "nit pick" anything. However, I can't remember any of the "experts" saying the SXRD had a soft screen. At least one of the major reviews said it was the best picture the reviewer had seen since the last 9" crt front projector; and that the SXRD blacks and contrast were arguably better.

Are the rear speakers detachable?

I assume you mean the speakers sticking out to the sides of the set? No, they are not.

Marco99,

Your comments about resolution at 6.5 feet don't make sense. A TV's resolution is what it is at its screen. It is a measurable quality and can be compared directly with other sets of similar size. The variations you see at different distances are variations of your own perception. That's why the optimum distance for viewing a set with N lines of resolution and a diagonal size, D, is L= 2996*D/N. if you stand closer, your eyes will resolve the pixels. if you stand further away, your eyes will low pass filter the image. Let's spread truth here.

Where has it been established that the SXRD bulbs will only last a year or so -- which might be 1,000 - 2,000 hours.

That seems very low to me.

What's the experience been on bulbs on the Grand WEGA LCD series -- once they got the good ones in, that is.

I was not implying that the bulbs only last a year nor was I implying 1,000 to 2,000 hours. I was not making a statement (I'm sorry if it came off as such). For some people this would be the only TV in the entire house and would get turned on/off multiple times per day by multiple people. I would guess in our house it would easily see 2000+ hours in a year. Even spending $200+ to have a working TV every other year for such an expensive initial purchase seems like too much.

I know on front projectors that turning them on/off often decreases the life the bulb quite a bit. Since these are rated much higher in terms of lamp life, I was curious to know others experience from past sets since this (Sony SXRD) has not been out long.

So, you're looking at the 55HDX62 - 55" CineForm Director's Series?

You're going to skip 1080 resolution and go with 768?

A Corvette will accelerate from 0-60 MPH in 5 seconds, but not when there's a old lady in a green minivan with a handicap tag swinging from her rearview mirror in front of you. With glaucoma and Parkinsons. Doing 20 MPH in a 40 MPH zone. In the left lane. Going to the bank to confirm the contents of her safe deposit box for the fifth time that week.

With the dearth of high quality signals available in late 2005, the only thing that matters is quality of conversion. And in 2010 I won't care - I'll sell whatever TV I buy now for 25 cents on the dollar.

Besides, can a converted 1080p signal be any worse than Dumbo ears, shower glass and gray plastic that looks like an old, old model of an aircraft carrier given away at a garage sale?

Panels/chips get smaller with every generation. First time I've heard that leads to softer images.

Actually, it's pretty easy to understand why panel size matters (0.61" vs 0.78").

You're talking about projection technology. You shine a light and magnify 0.61" to
60" and you've just done about 9800% magnification of the image.

You do the same thing with 0.78" to 70" and you've done about 9000% magnification.

So, you're taking a smaller image to start with a stretching it out about an additional 9%.

The only reason you need or want to make the panel smaller is increased efficiency in production process and the associated cost savings. It won't make a better projected image...

Besides, can a converted 1080p signal be any worse than Dumbo ears, shower glass and gray plastic that looks like an old, old model of an aircraft carrier given away at a garage sale?

So, what you're saying is that you basically like the set except for the fact it supports 1080i and not 1080p? ;)

:)

The .61" panel is a newer manufacturing technology and has a higher fill ratio than the .78" panel.

Marco99,

Your comments about resolution at 6.5 feet don't make sense. A TV's resolution is what it is at its screen. It is a measurable quality and can be compared directly with other sets of similar size. The variations you see at different distances are variations of your own perception. That's why the optimum distance for viewing a set with N lines of resolution and a diagonal size, D, is L= 2996*D/N. if you stand closer, your eyes will resolve the pixels. if you stand further away, your eyes will low pass filter the image. Let's spread truth here.

Where does this formula come from?

Marco99,

Your comments about resolution at 6.5 feet don't make sense. A TV's resolution is what it is at its screen. It is a measurable quality and can be compared directly with other sets of similar size. The variations you see at different distances are variations of your own perception. That's why the optimum distance for viewing a set with N lines of resolution and a diagonal size, D, is L= 2996*D/N. if you stand closer, your eyes will resolve the pixels. if you stand further away, your eyes will low pass filter the image. Let's spread truth here.


That formula provides a viewing distance of around 6 times screen hight, or near 50% greater then the visual acuity model, which works out at about 4 times screen hight.
That’s just WAY to much, even SD resolution looks good at 6 times screen hight.


http://www.myhometheater.homestead.com/viewingdistancecalculator.html

The .61" panel is a newer manufacturing technology and has a higher fill ratio than the .78" panel.

OK, people, let's stick with the facts. Same resolution on the panels, same inter-pixel spacing of 0.35 Micrometers, and the same fill factor of 92%. And let's not forget there exists yet another panel which is 1.55" with 4096 x 2160 resolution for industrial applications.

That formula provides a viewing distance of around 6 times screen hight, or near 50% greater then the visual acuity model, which works out at about 4 times screen hight.
That’s just WAY to much, even SD resolution looks good at 6 times screen hight.


I agree this makes no sense whatsoever. A 34" XBR CRT doesn't look bad at 3 feet. Why should anyone NEED to sit 10-12 feet away? If it looks good, sit wherever you want. There are some Qualia 006 owners (70" diagonal) that sit less than 10 feet away from the set. Someone was just saying they watched Rome on HBO HD at 6.5' distance the other night and really enjoyed it. Are they lying, or blind? There is no required viewing distance - people can make their own decisions about screen size and comfortable viewing distances. Anything else is a recommendation or a justification for why something looks poor close up...

Just my $0.02...and I'm wearing a flameproof suit...so go crazy!!! :D

I've also noticed the softer image too and i don't think its the screen. The DLPs are sharper and have a non-glare screen as well. I'll be getting mine in a few weeks and hopefully it'll be sharp enough. The DLPs are definitely noisier though. The SXRDs look better with the noise reduction turned off. I won't really know how sharp they get until I get one home and be able to see what it does with a direct signal rather that the same signal going to 10 different TVs.

What do you guys mean when you say "soft"?

Are you talking about how that SHARPNESS button/control we all have on our older CRT's that makes the pixels very sharp or smooths/softens it out a bit?

FWIW, I always turn my SHARPNESS control on my 27" CRT to the lowest setting. When it's neutral or set to high, it looks pixelated (I think that's the term, right?).

Never seen a plasma without obscene SDE. I'm not worried about the bulb as I bought an extended warrenty which covers that (the only reason I got the warrentee).

My set looks fine from 5-6 feet depending on the source. And that's with a SA 8000HD via component and the box doesn't do great component output. I don't have any blue hue problems. The only thing i feel that makes the qualia any better is it had a glass screen compared to the xbr1's screen which can cause silk screen and cause the picture to be slightly softer.

Oh, and I would never rate a set's PQ based on FUX... FOX. Their HD is terrible.

Then you've never seen a 55" Fujitsu plasma...you can get within 2' of it without SDE. Really. The PQ is astounding.

Never could understand how much or how long people sit in front of their TV's. They want the best picture possible and enjoy it very much but want to complain about having to spend $250 a year possibly on a new bulb. Crap thank goodness its not a computer where you need a new one every two years and not just a bulb.

As I commented in my earlier post about an in-store test, my wife thought the SXRD was "softer", but to me it seemed that it was more realistic compared to the edge enhancement shown by other sets. To me it felt more as if I was looking through a window than looking at something "presented". My set arrives in two days, so we'll see what this puppy can do in my home.

As I commented in my earlier post about an in-store test, my wife thought the SXRD was "softer", but to me it seemed that it was more realistic compared to the edge enhancement shown by other sets. To me it felt more as if I was looking through a window than looking at something "presented". My set arrives in two days, so we'll see what this puppy can do in my home.

Take a look at bold white text against a medium to dark background. Does it appear to have a haze surrounding the white text??

I come from a background of having a 60" GWIII that's been heavily tweaked and appears sharper than the SXRD. Using the same white text test, mine doesn't have this haze.

Something is definately wrong. They're plenty of knowledgable people on this thread that apparantly don't have this haze and say their picture is sharp. Could there be production variances that are that wide???

I've seen reports from some people who have viewed the SXRD in stores and claimed the picture was soft but I don't recall seeing any reports from actual owners that the SXRD's picture is soft. I will admit that when I first saw the SXRD in a store I felt it was soft (relative to A10 and DLP) but now that I've got one I do not find that to be the case.


The SXRD I saw at the tweeter I bought mine from looked like junk. Soft and filled with motion blur.

Looks absolutely nothing like my set.

Then you've never seen a 55" Fujitsu plasma...you can get within 2' of it without SDE. Really. The PQ is astounding.


No I haven't. Not that I really care, but is it a 1080p set?

... complain about having to spend $250 a year possibly on a new bulb. .


A question was presented here asking those who have not purchased this set as to reasons why. Replacing bulbs is a fact not a complaint and for some, this might tip the scale.

AkaStp

I'm just not believing my eyes.

I went back to the store where I had seen the hazy around the white letters on darker background SXRD and the same set wasn't doing it any more. They appeared much clearer than before and without the haze.

Beats the heck out of me.

JimP: can you say bad HD feed and or digital feed. Most stores have the signal split so many times all the sets look like crap.

I just saw the 50" and thought it had a fantastic picture, I was about ready to pull the trigger on a Pioneer 55" plasma and then saw this puppy. Well I also got the 60" for $3989.00? Is this the right price for these? Guy said there was a screw up in pricing them but they had to honor the price.

If anybody here is willing to help an SXRD mate in trouble..please go here

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6471312&&#post6471312

Yikes..... Thats the chance you take buying anything. A tube set can go out with a blink of an eye, and LCD blub can go out, DLP etc..... Anything can happen, doesn't matter on what technology it is using, it's electronic anything can happen. I have had 3 LCD Front projectors, upgrades of course, everyone having well over 1000 hours, hell one over 3000 on the bulb, still was good when I sold it. Also the place I bought mine from has a extended warr, that covers the bulb, meaning if they can't find a replacement with in a couple of days they will give you a loaner. Hell most people have more than one TV, some more than 4 etc... I guess we could go back to reading, which wouldn't be a bad thing for awhile ;) LOL

For all you guys wanting to tweak out your Sony SXRD, if yo don't know already, I know in the past UMR has been a huge help to users with the GW III. I haven't kept up with the recent versions of the Sony's but if he can get his hands on an SXRD I'm sure he'd be an excellent resource for questions.

SteveL... let us know how things go and how you like it even right out of the box. Are you getting the 50 or 60? I think I will wind up with the 60 but sure hate those speakers on the side.
MikeL

For all you guys wanting to tweak out your Sony SXRD, if yo don't know already, I know in the past UMR has been a huge help to users with the GW III. I haven't kept up with the recent versions of the Sony's but if he can get his hands on an SXRD I'm sure he'd be an excellent resource for questions.

Great idea, but umr is now running a business so no more "umr does GW III" threads will exist :) It's OK though, in all honesty people should really spend the $300-$400 and have someone come out to get settings as best as possible.

Chris

Great idea, but umr is now running a business so no more "umr does GW III" threads will exist :) It's OK though, in all honesty people should really spend the $300-$400 and have someone come out to get settings as best as possible.

Chris

I will be in the PA, NJ, MA, NY area the week of Dec. 5th. PM me if you are interested in professional video/audio calibration/setup.

A question was presented here asking those who have not purchased this set as to reasons why. Replacing bulbs is a fact not a complaint and for some, this might tip the scale.

Larry.. your going to spend $4-$5K for a TV, probably $400 for a stand, another $150 for an HDMI cable, and probably if your not crazy an extended warranty for around $350 and your telling me someone wants to make a decision on a $250 bulb? Besides if you get a good extended warranty they give you the first bulb anyway so there is most of the cost of your extended warranty, if you get a good one anyway. Was just down at the video store and read it myself. I probably will be bringing one home later tonight after I discuss it with the wife.

Larry.. your going to spend $4-$5K for a TV, probably $400 for a stand, another $150 for an HDMI cable, and probably if your not crazy an extended warranty for around $350 and your telling me someone wants to make a decision on a $250 bulb? Besides if you get a good extended warranty they give you the first bulb anyway so there is most of the cost of your extended warranty, if you get a good one anyway. Was just down at the video store and read it myself. I probably will be bringing one home later tonight after I discuss it with the wife.

I understand what you are saying. It can, as I said, tip the scales for some. You can’t include the stand, the warranty and the HDMI cable with the bulb since these are going to be purchased regardless of what type of display but a replaceable bulb is unique to these types. Granted it’s probably less than 95% of the total out lay-- it’s a reality and it will be for years to come. It’s not a deal breaker for me but it’s one of those things that goes in the “not good” column. My main point is, if I were to have one of these sets I would have a spare bulb on hand.

$150 HDMI cable? That thing must be a monster! (pun intended)

I will be in the PA, NJ, MA, NY area the week of Dec. 5th. PM me if you are interested in professional video/audio calibration/setup.

I'd love to umr, but alas I'm in the midst of buying another house and I have to wait to 'get settled' before buying a new tv. Thanks for the offer though, I will certainly be in touch when that time comes!

I have been reading a lot of negative comments about this TV here. Do any owners have good comments on this TV? I have a 50" Sony LCD Projection now and am looking to get the 50" SXRD to replace it but I am concerned about people saying the picture is soft and blurry! The other option for me would be the 1080p samsung. Is this TV the right choice?

Look again, the positive comments far outweigh the negatives. I don't see any owners claiming the SXRD looks soft and blurry in their homes. Mine sure doesn't.

Totally right. I saw a show tonight on InHD2 about cave diving, and they were walking through some grass and you could make out every blade of grass perfectly. Simply amazing picture quality...

Dennis

I understand what you are saying. It can, as I said, tip the scales for some. You can’t include the stand, the warranty and the HDMI cable with the bulb since these are going to be purchased regardless of what type of display but a replaceable bulb is unique to these types. Granted it’s probably less than 95% of the total out lay-- it’s a reality and it will be for years to come. It’s not a deal breaker for me but it’s one of those things that goes in the “not good” column. My main point is, if I were to have one of these sets I would have a spare bulb on hand.

Sorry LL3HD as it was not my intent to start any kind of argument here and I apologize as it appears I have. I also would want a spare bulb on hand. My point was in the over all scheme of the cost of things plus you get a free bulb on your extended warranty what was the big deal. But I can see if your really doing pros and cons that would be a con albeit to me not a deal breaker. Sorry again.
Mike

I have been reading a lot of negative comments about this TV here. Do any owners have good comments on this TV? I have a 50" Sony LCD Projection now and am looking to get the 50" SXRD to replace it but I am concerned about people saying the picture is soft and blurry! The other option for me would be the 1080p samsung. Is this TV the right choice?

spinn74,
I would be one of those people, but I was referring to the 60". The 50" that you're interested in seem to be fairly sharp.

About the 60", I posted in one of these thread that I had gone back to the same store where I had earlier viewed the 60" SXRD and the picture was improved. Still not as sharp as the 50" set next to it, but that's to be expected.

I have been reading a lot of negative comments about this TV here. Do any owners have good comments on this TV? I have a 50" Sony LCD Projection now and am looking to get the 50" SXRD to replace it but I am concerned about people saying the picture is soft and blurry! The other option for me would be the 1080p samsung. Is this TV the right choice?

Some SXRDs may have inky blues but of the several I've seen, they all are spot on when it comes to pq. With a good source, it's the best I've seen.

I've also noticed the softer image too and i don't think its the screen. The DLPs are sharper and have a non-glare screen as well.


Spent a few hours reviewing yesterday and I noticed the same thing. The Qualia 006 sitting a few feet away was not only larger, but had a sharper, more detailed picture.

Everbody's claiming that one is better than the other -- SXRD, DLP, etc. -- but they all have their faults -- except the Qualia 006. It's still the best, despite some slight lag and some blooming colors.

Spent a few hours reviewing yesterday and I noticed the same thing. The Qualia 006 sitting a few feet away was not only larger, but had a sharper, more detailed picture.

Everbody's claiming that one is better than the other -- SXRD, DLP, etc. -- but they all have their faults -- except the Qualia 006. It's still the best, despite some slight lag and some blooming colors.

GEE! What a surprise!!! An $11,000 TV that looks better than a $4000 one! Thanks for pointing out the obvious! Who would have guessed?

Spent a few hours reviewing yesterday and I noticed the same thing. The Qualia 006 sitting a few feet away was not only larger, but had a sharper, more detailed picture.

Everbody's claiming that one is better than the other -- SXRD, DLP, etc. -- but they all have their faults -- except the Qualia 006. It's still the best, despite some slight lag and some blooming colors.

I think when you hold up the Qualia 006 as the standard, you are going to find the other sets lacking. Adding the XBR's Iris technology to the 006 is one of the few things that could make it better. Afterall, it's a $13K set, and its undoubtedly got quality control that exceeds any other set out there...

spinn74,
About the 60", I posted in one of these thread that I had gone back to the same store where I had earlier viewed the 60" SXRD and the picture was improved. Still not as sharp as the 50" set next to it, but that's to be expected.

The settings were obviously not set to show a "sharp" picture. I can get my 60" to show an equally sharp, overly processed picture as a DLP, etc. There is a wide range, from very soft to overly sharp depending on the viewers preferrence.

GEE! What a surprise!!! An $11,000 TV that looks better than a $4000 one! Thanks for pointing out the obvious! Who would have guessed?

Many people here who think the new Sony 50" ad 60" are the holy grail. But there is more technology removed from the Qualia 006 to produce these new sets than simply 10" and a smaller chip.

By the way I see you own the 50" so don't take it personally and don't be such a donkey.

I finally had the chance to look at these two sets. I saw them at a Best Buy, so it wasn't under "ideal" circumstances.

I have been a pretty big fan and supporter of DLP technology. I prefer the sharpness and contrast that it provides over the other technologies. So, when I saw the posts saying that DLP's may look sharper than the SXRD's, I thought this sounded plausible and I would not have been surprised at all if I thought the same thing.

I can tell you right off that was definitely NOT the case based on what I saw. They had both the 50 and 60" models. The 60" was next to a 56" JVC D-ILA and a Samsung DLP (720p). There was no comparison. The Sony was definitely better, both in terms of sharpness and color fidelity. The JVC looked pretty bad. The Samsung was better. The Sony was better than both of them in terms of contrast too. When taking contrast and color into consideration, these elements also helped the Sony appear sharper. The Sony really "popped" compared to the sets next to them (this applied to the 50" as well, which was next to a DLP and LCD of similar sizes).

The sets were all being fed a HD signal, so I don't know what DVD or SD TV would look like. But the Sony SXRD's really were noticeably better with the HD feed.

Obviously the big caveat here is that I don't have the slightest idea how any of the sets were calibrated or what their settings were. Nonetheless, the fact that BOTH Sony's looked better than the 4 sets setting right next to them has to say something!

I have no bias whatsoever. I probably won't be purchasing a TV until the middle of 2006 anyway. But count me in as someone who would buy the Sony 60" SXRD if I was going to purchase a set today!

Oh, the set looks great too. The "ears" really don't bother me in terms of looks. The biggest drawback to them is that it makes the set wider and more difficult to fit in a media niche.

Many people here who think the new Sony 50" ad 60" are the holy grail. But there is more technology removed from the Qualia 006 to produce these new sets than simply 10" and a smaller chip.

By the way I see you own the 50" so don't take it personally and don't be such a donkey.

I still fail to see the informative side of your point. I find it blatantly obvious that with a $7000 average difference in price between the Qualia line and the SXRD XBR line, that ANYONE couldn't comprehend that their SXRD XBR would be better than the Qualia TV.. Has anyone ever said that on these threads? I havent seen it! Once again you assume that I am flaming you in some way. I was simply stating the obvious. I'm pretty sure that everyone here would admit that the Qualia is a better unit. So please refrain from calling me a political incorrect jackass..

BTW. I consider my 50" SXRD to be a MORE than adequate bedroom TV, wouldn't you agree? Not to mention that it's about 95% better than what most people have in their bedrooms.. So I'm not sure what you think I need to "take personally"? I guess you made another assumption... Well, let me make one then based on your reactions to everyones comments:

You think the SXRD's are subpar to the Qualia... GREAT! I agree, and I'm happy for you.... I guess we don't get what point your trying to get across. So does that mean that you now want to argue about your Qualia being better than oxygen?

Uh, guys, I think maybe we need a moratorium on comparing the Qualia SXRD's with the XBR SXRD's on this thread. They're both made by divisions of Sony and they both have a version of the SXRD panel. And that's about where the comparisons should stop. :o

They're really different sets and the 70" Qualia is more than 2.5 times the cost of the 60" XBR. Perhaps we can argue about whether the Qualia could possibly be worth 2.5 times the cost of the XBR? :eek:

Personally, I've never really cared for the DLP, LCD or plasma as I seem to be overly aware of SDE. I've always thought the Qualia 006 was a great set. But I could never justify the cost. If the Qualia were half its price I would have bought it when it came out. I think the XBR SXRD's are some of the best sets under $5K and certainly in the 60" range, but I just don't know that it lives up to my expectations or justifies its cost. It's a really tough call for me.. :confused:

I can tell you right off that was definitely NOT the case based on what I saw. They had both the 50 and 60" models. The 60" was next to a 56" JVC D-ILA and a Samsung DLP (720p). There was no comparison. The Sony was definitely better, both in terms of sharpness and color fidelity. The JVC looked pretty bad. The Samsung was better. The Sony was better than both of them in terms of contrast too. When taking contrast and color into consideration, these elements also helped the Sony appear sharper. The Sony really "popped" compared to the sets next to them (this applied to the 50" as well, which was next to a DLP and LCD of similar sizes).

Hi Rob,

I have to agree with you 100%! I wasn't really looking to buy, but was very interested in seeing the SXRD. The local BB had the best setup with the 60" next to several other sets. One of the sets was a 42" Sony but I don't know what technology it was. Well, the SXRD simply blew away all the other sets, INCLUDING the 42". In general a smaller screen size should look sharper than a larger screen. Well, the SXRD looked much more sharper than the 42" or any other TV that was showing the same HD loop. But the sharpness did not seem artificial and looked very nice. Similar to your comment I have no idea how the SXRD or any of the other sets were adjusted - probably not very well. But assuming they all had "factory" settings, its still a reasonable comparison.

After returning a couple more times I went ahead and bought one!!! But it won't be delivered for a week or two. I can't wait.

Gerry

Hi Rob,

I have to agree with you 100%! I wasn't really looking to buy, but was very interested in seeing the SXRD. The local BB had the best setup with the 60" next to several other sets. One of the sets was a 42" Sony but I don't know what technology it was. Well, the SXRD simply blew away all the other sets, INCLUDING the 42". In general a smaller screen size should look sharper than a larger screen. Well, the SXRD looked much more sharper than the 42" or any other TV that was showing the same HD loop. But the sharpness did not seem artificial and looked very nice. Similar to your comment I have no idea how the SXRD or any of the other sets were adjusted - probably not very well. But assuming they all had "factory" settings, its still a reasonable comparison.

After returning a couple more times I went ahead and bought one!!! But it won't be delivered for a week or two. I can't wait.

Gerry

I'll tell you what Gerry, even though we had decided to wait until mid 2006 to get a TV, after seeing just how much better the Sony was than the other sets, it makes it easy to actually get excited about what a nice piece of equipment it is, and how great it would be to own one now! I can definitely understand how you would be pushed over the edge.

It is a very nice set!

I am in the same boat and went down and looked and played with all the different brands over the weekend. My Pioneer was down for the weekend waiting for a part to come and get fixed on Monday. Out of all of the sets and I stayed for several hours tweeking.. The new sony 50 and 60" were the best of the bunch... And you are very right not to compare anything with the quaila! I would not spend that kind of money with things still changing so fast still anyway. Anyway I still may go back this week after doing some budgeting and grab one of the 60" Sony's, I really liked it.

I can tell you right off that was definitely NOT the case based on what I saw. They had both the 50 and 60" models. The 60" was next to a 56" JVC D-ILA and a Samsung DLP (720p). There was no comparison.

Seems a little silly to compare a 1080p set to a couple of 720p sets. You're right, there should be no comparison.

I was in Ultimate Electronics and compared the 1080p SXRD to the 1080p Qualia and Samsung/Mitsubishi 1080p DLPs. (And I'm not arguing price here or justifying price). I'm just stating comparitive purposes, regardless of price.

The 61"/62" DLPs seemed more detailed than the 60" SXRD, in my opinion (and I looked for quite a while). The Qualia was the best of the group, but the DLPs were pretty close. And, after all, it's my opinion and you are all correct to go and create your own after viewing. But, I'm also not the first to notice this and I specifically came to this forum to see if others found the same thing I did -- and they did.

Uh, guys, I think maybe we need a moratorium on comparing the Qualia SXRD's with the XBR SXRD's on this thread. They're both made by divisions of Sony and they both have a version of the SXRD panel. And that's about where the comparisons should stop. :o

And that's disappointing. I've been following Sony a long time and have almost exclusively bought their products. While they make great products, they have lost the compeititive advantage they used to have in TVs and other electronics.

The Qualia was the first 1080p product to market, followed 6 months later by a host of other 1080p products in DLP. Sony should have made the new SXRD equal or better than the Qualia to keep their advantage.

I don't think they have made the new SXRD as good, and I assume that some of you agree with me because you're all throwing up your arms complaining of the comparison. I've spent some time with the Qualia. It's not $13,000 because it has an expensive plastic box, it's because it was first to market for 1080p TVs. The Qualia was also marketed in a retired product line that Sony created to milk high end customers. The first SXRD 1080p product, the Qualia 004 front projector, is an amazing machine and hit the market 2 years ago, well before it's time.

Just don't understand why it took Sony 2+ years to bring SXRD technology to the mass market. 2 years in TV years is a long time.

Scott: There are way more positive reviews then negative for the new SXRD sets. I own the 60" model and am more then happy. You can't go by store feeds. They split the signal many times over and don't adjust the sets to get the maximum PQ. In my in store comparisons I thought the Samsung had the weakest picture. It was often flat and not detailed after calibrating the set by eye. Once again there are plenty of happy Samsung users. The reviews that are the most accurate, most of the time, are professional reviews and all the reviews that I'v read say the new Sony is the best set they have seen to date.

Did any of you guys notice BB's weekend sale on ALL TELEVISIONS posted on their site? Mysteriously the Sony's are gone off the website .. lol, so i guess it means ALMOST ALL.. how do companies get away with these type of shananigans? :P
Link when searching SXRD, show up, but then click it..No product hah. (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=cat12085&type=page&sc=ALL&qs=sxrd&cp=1&sp=Relevance&mipp=25&uq=SXRD&_requestid=41774)

Did any of you guys notice BB's weekend sale on ALL TELEVISIONS posted on their site? Mysteriously the Sony's are gone off the website .. lol, so i guess it means ALMOST ALL.. how do companies get away with these type of shananigans? :P
Link when searching SXRD, show up, but then click it..No product hah. (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=cat12085&type=page&sc=ALL&qs=sxrd&cp=1&sp=Relevance&mipp=25&uq=SXRD&_requestid=41774)

Probably for the same reasons people took advantange of their price-matching with the bogus CC misprint....

Did any of you guys notice BB's weekend sale on ALL TELEVISIONS posted on their site? Mysteriously the Sony's are gone off the website .. lol, so i guess it means ALMOST ALL.. how do companies get away with these type of shananigans? :P
Link when searching SXRD, show up, but then click it..No product hah. (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=cat12085&type=page&sc=ALL&qs=sxrd&cp=1&sp=Relevance&mipp=25&uq=SXRD&_requestid=41774)

I also noticed this earlier today. At first I was kind of miffed, then I thought maybe they were out of stock. It could also be a technical glitch. I was in Best Buy today, and they are definitely still out on the floor and taking orders...

And they are still matching CC's 'mistake' price, even though they know it is an admitted 'error'. ;)

And they are still matching CC's 'mistake' price, even though they know it is an admitted 'error'. ;)

I would be very surprised if that were true. They may match the CC price, but if they actually "know" that it is an error in the CC flyer, I can't imagine that they would match it.

Our local BB was having a "sale" for $4699.00 on the 60 inch model.

If they were still price matching, all of that ended Saturday...new circular out on Sunday!

Signal Path !

I cant read all 205 pages of this thread, so this may have already been answered. (did a search, came up with nothing).

Anyone know what the signal path for the HDMIs is on these TVs? Is it Digital all the way through, or does it go through a D-A-D conversion ?

Yoyogi

PaulyC... some manufacturers like Sony or Bose is a great one for doing this make stores sign contracts that they cannot advertise prices on certain items if another brand is also advertised in the same ad or flyer or whatever... It sucks but they are the ones with the bucks and attorneys.

PaulyC... some manufacturers like Sony or Bose is a great one for doing this make stores sign contracts that they cannot advertise prices on certain items if another brand is also advertised in the same ad or flyer or whatever... It sucks but they are the ones with the bucks and attorneys.

No youre def. right, I hadnt seen any Authorized seller advertise a price lower than the MSRP for the SXRD's online, I was just saying it was kinda funny that BB just takes it down to avoid hassle, Random Caller-" hey youre having an ALL tv sale how come theres no sale on these". sounds pretty obvious, although, an ALL tv sale would actually be false.. but we're giving props these days to BB for honoring CC crazy price so ill shut up..
heh

You stand a better shot of chopping those Donkey ears off the side of you tater head than the Glomboobahs on this monstrosity, Dude :rolleyes:

Eh? Anyway, it's 3-weeks later, the store undertook some delicate prodding and concluded that the above mentioned chopping would be a rather unpleasant experience. They suggested that one wait for the upcoming JVC's less donkey-eared composure. Thus, one is afraid one will not be able to provide pictures of the anticipated SXRD Glomboohah-ectomy. My apologies if all this seems rather tater-headish of me, yo dude person, Sir.

This may have been covered before, but I can't find a way to search through 200+ pages. Can Sony upgrade the TV to upgrade 1080p? I had heard that they did this with the Qualia, but I can't remember if this was true.

Plus can you change the channel if you are recording off iLink? On the Tosh HM95, if you were recording to a D-VHS, you could not change the channel.

I would be very surprised if that were true. They may match the CC price, but if they actually "know" that it is an error in the CC flyer, I can't imagine that they would match it.

Our local BB was having a "sale" for $4699.00 on the 60 inch model.

I was up front about what I wanted to pay for the set, and told them about the erroneous CC ad, in case they wanted to use it for any reason. They matched the price, I don't really know how they rationalized it. The 'sale' price when I walked in the door was $250 off retail, so I got another $750 off...

I was up front about what I wanted to pay for the set, and told them about the erroneous CC ad, in case they wanted to use it for any reason. They matched the price, I don't really know how they rationalized it. The 'sale' price when I walked in the door was $250 off retail, so I got another $750 off...

Cool. Would CC have honored that price too?

Cool. Would CC have honored that price too?

You know, I wondered the same thing myself, after the fact. When I walked into CC and saw the huge letter posted next to the TV stating that it was an error, I didn't even bother talking to the 15-year old who walked up to me asking if I had any questions.

I'm guessing I could walk into BB/Magnolia tomorrow and get them to do it all over again. I told him my basement wouldn't be finished for two months (and thus I was in no hurry), and that I would get 20% off locally at some point, whether he sold it to me today, or someone else sold it to me two months from now. Maybe I just hit them at the right time, and they needed some numbers. Who knows? Of course he gave me the hard sell with cables and other AV equipment, and even suggested I might get even more 'off' if I bought more equipment (at full price, I'm sure).

Interestingly, I told the guy I couldn't believe that the SXRD's weren't over on the Magnolia side, and he said it wasn't BB's doing, it was Sony's. Sony wants it out with the masses, not huddled in the high-end store, where they must presume it'll get less exposure.

Cheers...

Ok, so I'm getting mine delivered from Tweeter on 11/19. I went nuts and bought the Pioneer DVD-59i to go along with it. What does everyone reccomend I do with this unit when it is hooked up. Any tweaks/tips?

if anyone wants a good deal on these TV's and live in Toronto, ontario, or the GTA, let me know.

I have several components that I connect via a DVI switch. Pioneer DV 59 AVI, Scientific Atlanta 8300HD, and an LG OTA Receiver LST-3510 A. The only component that works via the DVI-HDMI connection is the 3510A. My Pioneer DVD player was switching back and forth with 720P and then blanking out. My 8300HD does not work at all. I tried the video 6 & 7 inputs with the same result. Is there a known fix or am I missing something elementary in the setup. My Video 1 composite, Video 3 s-video, and Video 5 component all work fine.

Any help is appreciated.

Ronnie Schenk

I have been reading a lot of negative comments about this TV here. Do any owners have good comments on this TV? I have a 50" Sony LCD Projection now and am looking to get the 50" SXRD to replace it but I am concerned about people saying the picture is soft and blurry! The other option for me would be the 1080p samsung. Is this TV the right choice?

I think the soft and "blurry" issue is related to the fact that you are not seeing edges on any of the pixels like you would with the standard LCDs. I think the edges and artifical edge enhancement from video enhancement circuirty gives the impression of a sharper image on lesser sets. Furthermore there are so many more pixels (2x that of any DLP). This set is capable of faithfully reproducing the broadcast content. If the broadcast is a bit soft that is what you will see. It totally looks like film content on older movies except better than any movie theatre! I've seen razor sharp images on this set also, so sharp it that I have been in Awe. Like Honey come over here and look at this! The image on this set Rocks!

There has been some anecdotal information about the Qualia 006 bulbs already burning out. And the Qualia isn't even a year old...

However, the Qualia bulb is also 200W and burning a LOT hotter, because the XBR only has a 120W bulb.

And, for everyone who doesn't already know, there is both a warm up period for these bulbs and a cool down period, whenever the set is turned on or off.

Add to that factor that many are using the sets in low power mode (about 100w) so that should make the bulb last even longer. I have been doing this (on the 50") and find that even with the low power setting I find it more than bright enough.

For those who can't stand the look of the Dumbo ear speakers (my wife hates them) I have come up with a unique low cost solution. Hanging some soft but thin black cloth over each like curtains in a Theatre. Presto! The ugly ears disapear, the soft black cloth complements the high tech look but doesn't block the sound, the set looks smaller and more elegant. Try it you will be amazed, my wife is now happy and that says a lot. For those who use this idea please send me a check for $20. LOL OK, just post your appreciation. I will publish a picture in a few weeks once I do a complete install in my cabinet.

I have several components that I connect via a DVI switch. Pioneer DV 59 AVI, Scientific Atlanta 8300HD, and an LG OTA Receiver LST-3510 A. The only component that works via the DVI-HDMI connection is the 3510A. My Pioneer DVD player was switching back and forth with 720P and then blanking out. My 8300HD does not work at all. I tried the video 6 & 7 inputs with the same result. Is there a known fix or am I missing something elementary in the setup. My Video 1 composite, Video 3 s-video, and Video 5 component all work fine.

Any help is appreciated.

Ronnie Schenk

Could be a problem with your switch or cables or the components themselves. To rule out the switch and cables connect each directly to the HDMI input 6 or 7 with a known good cable. If it works then the problem is either the switch or original cable. If the cable is known to be good then the issue is with the switch. If it doesn't work directly then there is some compatibility issue with the Sony. My 50" SXRD works fine with the HDMI input connected to a DirecTV HD TIVO unit.

DRAV... thanks for the hint there.. Not a bad idea.. Mine will ge going in a huge entertainment center anyway so I might just build small thin frames and cover them with black speaker cloth for a tight fit..... Thanks... that was a great idea as I hate those ears... The other thing I though of since there is a space in between was the posibility of trying a back light and seeing what that would be like comeing through for viewing... Better?? or worse?? who knows...
Mike

I was up front about what I wanted to pay for the set, and told them about the erroneous CC ad, in case they wanted to use it for any reason. They matched the price, I don't really know how they rationalized it. The 'sale' price when I walked in the door was $250 off retail, so I got another $750 off...


BB seems willing to deal. I brought in the ShopSunshine Price for the 50" SXRD and asked if they could meet it. The 50" was going for an advertised 200$ off retail on the floor. They told me they could not meet it but they got really close! CC would not meet the BB discounted price. They hemmed and hawed and found all kinds of excuses. They called to verify and when the BB acutally verified then they called back again and asked if if was in stock. (It was not at the store but was available to be delivered from their Wharehouse to the store for Pickup on Friday). So CC's excuse was that they only match in stock price, and this was a special price ets. So I went back to BB and bought the set!

I just wanted to thank everyone for their contributions to this board. I recently purchased the 50" SXRD TV and have been completely blown away by the picture. One thing I would like to add, despite what Sony has listed, the SU-GW11 stand will fit this TV PERFECTLY! I bought this stand recently at BB when they were blowing them out at an unbelievable 80% off MSRP and wasn't sure if it would fit the TV since Sony lists the SU-GW12 stand as the only compatible stand. The TV lines up perfectly with the sides of the stand and the pedestal clips on top of the stand lock the TV in place just fine.

I did have one question about the TV. I've been noticing a tan looking rectangular image that takes up most of the screen when you first turn the television on and see the gray background screen while on an input that isn't receiving a signal. It takes awhile but then that tan image starts to disappear as the TV warms up. I haven't had a chance to time how long it takes since I usually flip to an input shortly after turning it on. Once I get a signal and show a picture that tan image seems to have no impact on the picture quality at all. After a few minutes when I go back to the gray screen flipping between inputs I notice the tan image is gone. Anyone know what causes this and is it normal?

Add to that factor that many are using the sets in low power mode (about 100w) so that should make the bulb last even longer. I have been doing this (on the 50") and find that even with the low power setting I find it more than bright enough.

Hi,

I see you're using the 50," and have expressed your pleasure with the pq.

My questions: What's your viewing distance? And what factors did you use in determining your best viewing distance/TV size?

I ask because (as I've posted before), my viewing distance will be 9.5' to just less than 10'. This distance seems to be right on the edge between the 50" and 60" for acceptable tradeoffs. The 60" 'should' work ok, as many have responded back to me. The 50" will be a little small, but the pq should be slightly sharper and brighter, and, of course. $1k less. (I won't be getting the TV until late Dec or more likely Jan.)

Thanks very much for your input.

Rod

I would like your input as well on PQ on SD channels compaired to maybe what you had before. Does this set do a good job at displaying those off of satellite or cable? We still have a lot of them left and will for awhile I am afraid. Thanks ahead. I am also sitting at about 11 Ft. and have currently a 53" Pioneer and am thinking of going to the 60" on the Sony if the picture quality does not suck to bad on the bigger screen at that distance. I think it should be ok from what I have seen and played with it but you never know until you get it home. Thanks

When adjusted properly, the set does a fine job with satellite. Cable will depend on the provider and connection. I have seen it look very bad in the stores.

At 11 feet, I would recommend the 60"

I just wanted to thank everyone for their contributions to this board. I recently purchased the 50" SXRD TV and have been completely blown away by the picture. One thing I would like to add, despite what Sony has listed, the SU-GW11 stand will fit this TV PERFECTLY! I bought this stand recently at BB when they were blowing them out at an unbelievable 80% off MSRP and wasn't sure if it would fit the TV since Sony lists the SU-GW12 stand as the only compatible stand. The TV lines up perfectly with the sides of the stand and the pedestal clips on top of the stand lock the TV in place just fine.

I did have one question about the TV. I've been noticing a tan looking rectangular image that takes up most of the screen when you first turn the television on and see the gray background screen while on an input that isn't receiving a signal. It takes awhile but then that tan image starts to disappear as the TV warms up. I haven't had a chance to time how long it takes since I usually flip to an input shortly after turning it on. Once I get a signal and show a picture that tan image seems to have no impact on the picture quality at all. After a few minutes when I go back to the gray screen flipping between inputs I notice the tan image is gone. Anyone know what causes this and is it normal?

I started to get the SU-GW11, but the specs say it will only hold 75 lbs or so. The 50" weighs in the 90 lb range and the 60" in the 110 lb range. So I went with the Z-designs black and silver stand designed for CRTs and holds 250 lbs.

Today I went to a Circuit City here in Columbus Ohio and happened to notice that they had a sign on their 50" SXRD that said it was $400 off until 11-19-05. They also had a sign for the 60" that said $500 off. My 60" was delivered a month ago (to the day) and they only gave me $400 off at the time. When I asked them if their 110% "Price Match Plus" gaurantee applies to me they said yes and they credited me an additional $117.42. Cool!

My first time posting here, but I've gotten a lot of great info and help from this thread so much thanks.

I recently bought the Sony SXRD 50" as my first ever HD purchase, mainly for XBOX 360 and High Def gaming, and HD television content.
I am extremely impressed with the clarity of XBOX games in 720p on this set like Incredible Hulk Ultimate Destruction and NBA Live 2006. The 480p games are however another story.

I find the 480p gaming almost unplayable on this set, as well as DVD movies. I'm using the latest Panasonic DVD player with progressive scan and the picture is grainy and low quality looking. 480p xbox games are very blurry and have jaggies, and get a distorted look when the camera pans quickly. Some games that looked great and played well on my very old 27 inch CRT are disgusting to look at on this set. Other games are not so bad. But overall, I feel like just going back to my S-video connection on my CRT for the 480p XBOX games it's so bad.

Is this tv not particularly good for gaming, or is there something I'm doing wrong?
I have the XBOX connected directly to the set through Component, and the DVD player the same way. I've experimented with different color modes, but nothing has helped the problem. I bought this tv mainly for the next gen consoles, so when XBOX 360 comes out that will be the real test. But I'm just so disappointed with the 480p xbox content since I've seen it look much better on other RPTVs that are cheaper before. Plus there's no reason dvd's shouldn't be near excellent compared to my s-video crt tv, but they are not. My viewing distance is a little close at 6-7 feet, but I doubt a couple of feet will make the games I've seen look any less ugly.

Can anyone recommend set up advice for this set, and/or good dvds to test with. I am thinking of having it professionally calibrated, but I've already spent a lot on the set and want to hold off before I'm satisfied with the purchase.

Any help is appreciated.

-AC

I did have one question about the TV. I've been noticing a tan looking rectangular image that takes up most of the screen when you first turn the television on and see the gray background screen while on an input that isn't receiving a signal. It takes awhile but then that tan image starts to disappear as the TV warms up. I haven't had a chance to time how long it takes since I usually flip to an input shortly after turning it on. Once I get a signal and show a picture that tan image seems to have no impact on the picture quality at all. After a few minutes when I go back to the gray screen flipping between inputs I notice the tan image is gone. Anyone know what causes this and is it normal?

I believe that's the SXRD (LCoS) panels warming up. I have the same thing, it lasts about a minute. After that, it's completely gone.

For me, it's in the middle area, slightly lower left.

I have Xobx and PS2 and both look great. I would check my cables and see if that helps.

My first time posting here, but I've gotten a lot of great info and help from this thread so much thanks.

I recently bought the Sony SXRD 50" as my first ever HD purchase, mainly for XBOX 360 and High Def gaming, and HD television content.
I am extremely impressed with the clarity of XBOX games in 720p on this set like Incredible Hulk Ultimate Destruction and NBA Live 2006. The 480p games are however another story.

I find the 480p gaming almost unplayable on this set, as well as DVD movies. I'm using the latest Panasonic DVD player with progressive scan and the picture is grainy and low quality looking. 480p xbox games are very blurry and have jaggies, and get a distorted look when the camera pans quickly. Some games that looked great and played well on my very old 27 inch CRT are disgusting to look at on this set. Other games are not so bad. But overall, I feel like just going back to my S-video connection on my CRT for the 480p XBOX games it's so bad.

Is this tv not particularly good for gaming, or is there something I'm doing wrong?
I have the XBOX connected directly to the set through Component, and the DVD player the same way. I've experimented with different color modes, but nothing has helped the problem. I bought this tv mainly for the next gen consoles, so when XBOX 360 comes out that will be the real test. But I'm just so disappointed with the 480p xbox content since I've seen it look much better on other RPTVs that are cheaper before. Plus there's no reason dvd's shouldn't be near excellent compared to my s-video crt tv, but they are not. My viewing distance is a little close at 6-7 feet, but I doubt a couple of feet will make the games I've seen look any less ugly.

Can anyone recommend set up advice for this set, and/or good dvds to test with. I am thinking of having it professionally calibrated, but I've already spent a lot on the set and want to hold off before I'm satisfied with the purchase.

Any help is appreciated.

-AC
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=589332
AC,
I use Digital Video Essentials setup disc and it works very well. There is also a thread for tweaks and adjustments for this set.


Matt

Does this set have a 5th generation HD tuner? A friend of mine just got one and I was amazed at how easily he got in all the local stations OTA with the same antenna I've got (RS double bow tie) and the signal worked all the way through the house. I can put mine in a window and still have trouble even though I only live a couple miles away. My tuners come in an HDTiVo and an Hitachi 57XWX20b HDTV. I was just shocked how good his reception was...

Not to outdue Dr.AV, cuz I actually used his tactic but maybe a little more crazylike by bringing in the lowest price I could find online (about 150-200 below SSunshine last week) and have them work from there, haha, but I figured it out I got about 24% off the 50's price with shipping..At BB... Go in there, find someone to work.. and just make your price, they want to sell these sets...

Bytheway my friend brought over his Xbox yesterday, to run some tests. heh.. I dont play games but this thing is really amazing for games, playing Burnout: Revenge we were basically cracking up and saying wow the whole time...

My first time posting here, but I've gotten a lot of great info and help from this thread so much thanks.

I recently bought the Sony SXRD 50" as my first ever HD purchase, mainly for XBOX 360 and High Def gaming, and HD television content.
I am extremely impressed with the clarity of XBOX games in 720p on this set like Incredible Hulk Ultimate Destruction and NBA Live 2006. The 480p games are however another story.

I find the 480p gaming almost unplayable on this set, as well as DVD movies. I'm using the latest Panasonic DVD player with progressive scan and the picture is grainy and low quality looking. 480p xbox games are very blurry and have jaggies, and get a distorted look when the camera pans quickly. Some games that looked great and played well on my very old 27 inch CRT are disgusting to look at on this set. Other games are not so bad. But overall, I feel like just going back to my S-video connection on my CRT for the 480p XBOX games it's so bad.

Is this tv not particularly good for gaming, or is there something I'm doing wrong?
I have the XBOX connected directly to the set through Component, and the DVD player the same way. I've experimented with different color modes, but nothing has helped the problem. I bought this tv mainly for the next gen consoles, so when XBOX 360 comes out that will be the real test. But I'm just so disappointed with the 480p xbox content since I've seen it look much better on other RPTVs that are cheaper before. Plus there's no reason dvd's shouldn't be near excellent compared to my s-video crt tv, but they are not. My viewing distance is a little close at 6-7 feet, but I doubt a couple of feet will make the games I've seen look any less ugly.

Can anyone recommend set up advice for this set, and/or good dvds to test with. I am thinking of having it professionally calibrated, but I've already spent a lot on the set and want to hold off before I'm satisfied with the purchase.

Any help is appreciated.

-AC


You said you are using Component cables but make sure on your XBOX under the settings under VIDEO that 480P, 720P and 1080i are all set to YES.

I think 480P looks fine as can be expected. Assuming if things are connected and set up correctly on your XBOX then I think your expectations of 480P might be a little too high. Remember 480P means 640x480 resolution, which is relatively low. If you blow that up on a 50" or 60" HDTV like the SXRD's it is just going to look worse. No TV is going to make that look "great," especially compared to 720P or 1080i. I play Burnout Revenge (480P) on my 60" SXRD and it looks fine. If you say that 720P games look great then don't worry about it. If you bought this TV for next gen consoles then you will be fine. All XBOX 360 games will at a minimum be 720P which is going to look great.

The cool thing is that when you get your XBOX 360 some of the backwards compatable titles like HALO and HALO2 have a 720P mode with AA (anti-aliasing) turned on which should make a noticable improvement in visual quality.

So don't worry about it. You said you bought it for next gen gaming. Next gen gaming means 720P and higher not 480P. The SXRD's are a great choice for gaming and one of the reasons I bought my 60".

Check out Tony Hawk 4 and higher which are 720P as well as "MX Unleashed" and "MX vs ATV Unleashed" which are both 1080i games on the original XBOX. The XMEN Legends games are also 720P Those should give you an idea of how good it is going to look (but even better).


As for DVD, it looks excellent on my set (that includes both my Toshiba Progressive scan player as well as my OPPO upscaling DVD player). Do you have the DVD player set to output to a 16:9 TV?? If it looks bad then you definately have something set up wrong.

What DVD's have you been trying? DVD's that are widescreen anamorphic look best.

Is this tv not particularly good for gaming, or is there something I'm doing wrong?

-AC

Well the problem is NOT your TV but rather the low quality of resolution on your 480 games...

There is a "GAME" setting that you might try to improve your games that are 480 resolution. They look bad mainly because your new TV is so high res, that it shows the flaws that your older TV did NOT...

I suggest playing your older games on a different TV.. it's not going to get much better... It's just going to make you want to play the games that are created with a higher resolution.

Not sure if posted already...but here is a review of the 60 by Home Theater Mag:


http://www.hometheatermag.com/rearprojectiontvs/1105sony/

You said you are using Component cables but make sure on your XBOX under the settings under VIDEO that 480P, 720P and 1080i are all set to YES.

I think 480P looks fine as can be expected. Assuming if things are connected and set up correctly on your XBOX then I think your expectations of 480P might be a little too high. Remember 480P means 640x480 resolution, which is relatively low. If you blow that up on a 50" or 60" HDTV like the SXRD's it is just going to look worse. No TV is going to make that look "great," especially compared to 720P or 1080i. I play Burnout Revenge (480P) on my 60" SXRD and it looks fine. If you say that 720P games look great then don't worry about it. If you bought this TV for next gen consoles then you will be fine. All XBOX 360 games will at a minimum be 720P which is going to look great.

The cool thing is that when you get your XBOX 360 some of the backwards compatable titles like HALO and HALO2 have a 720P mode with AA (anti-aliasing) turned on which should make a noticable improvement in visual quality.

So don't worry about it. You said you bought it for next gen gaming. Next gen gaming means 720P and higher not 480P. The SXRD's are a great choice for gaming and one of the reasons I bought my 60".

Check out Tony Hawk 4 and higher which are 720P as well as "MX Unleashed" and "MX vs ATV Unleashed" which are both 1080i games on the original XBOX. The XMEN Legends games are also 720P Those should give you an idea of how good it is going to look (but even better).


As for DVD, it looks excellent on my set (that includes both my Toshiba Progressive scan player as well as my OPPO upscaling DVD player). Do you have the DVD player set to output to a 16:9 TV?? If it looks bad then you definately have something set up wrong.

What DVD's have you been trying? DVD's that are widescreen anamorphic look best.


I have MX vs ATV Unleashed and it does look very nice. Incredible Hulk Ultimate destruction looks great as well and it's 720p. However most of the XBOX games have a lot of jaggies on this set which are distracting. XBOX is supposed to have antialiasing as part of the hardware so that's why it's so odd to see them exaggerated. I expect jaggies in the rare case when viewing a 480p xbox game without antialiasing, or any PS2 game. But in 720p, shouldn't jaggies be minimal at the most? I think what's bothering me the most could be described as SSE. When the motion of the games is fast, the picture gets all distorted and unclear, then when it stops, crystal clear again. It would seem to me that this flaw would make LCoS/SXRD a bad choice for games because of all the fast movement that is happening. Combine that with the low res and jaggies and you have a terrible picture.

As far as my dvd player setup, it is a Panasonic DVD S77, and it's running in 480p mode. I don't know how to upconvert to a higher resolution which many people have posted in here, but it is connected to the SXRD directly with component cables. I've tried Gladiator, Daredevil, Moulin Rouge, and Twister. All movies look worse than s-video on my 27inch Proscan CRT. They are very grainy, artifacty and look low res. I've tried tweaking the settings(thanks for the link matt!), turning off all enchancements, lowering sharpness, etc. and I still get a terrible looking image.

I haven't even seen SD tv on this, but the way things are going I'm afraid to even look at it. Many people have described problems with SSE on good HD content as well as jaggies with this set, from HD tv sports shows not just gaming.

If my XBOX 360/PS3 look great, HD tv content blows me away and I can get DVD's to look as good as everyone is describing, I will be very pleased with the tv. I have over 100 XBOX games, not to mention PS2, but with the next gen looming I won't mind so much if I can't play my old games.

At this point, I'm strongly considering exchanging my tv for a Panasonic Plasma or something else. If the store lets me that is. I'm really grateful to have a forum like this to get expert advice, because not knowing what the problems are or how to fix them is really frustrating for noobs like me.

Any suggestions on getting this set to look as good as what some are describing are appreciated.

-AC

One thing I would like to add, despite what Sony has listed, the SU-GW11 stand will fit this TV PERFECTLY! I bought this stand recently at BB when they were blowing them out at an unbelievable 80% off MSRP

Thanks a lot for this tip, I went to my local best buy and picked up the last one! What a great deal at 100 bucks for a top quality stand. Highly recommend.

-AC

I have MX vs ATV Unleashed and it does look very nice. Incredible Hulk Ultimate destruction looks great as well and it's 720p. However most of the XBOX games have a lot of jaggies on this set which are distracting. XBOX is supposed to have antialiasing as part of the hardware so that's why it's so odd to see them exaggerated. I expect jaggies in the rare case when viewing a 480p xbox game without antialiasing, or any PS2 game. But in 720p, shouldn't jaggies be minimal at the most? I think what's bothering me the most could be described as SSE. When the motion of the games is fast, the picture gets all distorted and unclear, then when it stops, crystal clear again. It would seem to me that this flaw would make LCoS/SXRD a bad choice for games because of all the fast movement that is happening. Combine that with the low res and jaggies and you have a terrible picture.

As far as my dvd player setup, it is a Panasonic DVD S77, and it's running in 480p mode. I don't know how to upconvert to a higher resolution which many people have posted in here, but it is connected to the SXRD directly with component cables. I've tried Gladiator, Daredevil, Moulin Rouge, and Twister. All movies look worse than s-video on my 27inch Proscan CRT. They are very grainy, artifacty and look low res. I've tried tweaking the settings(thanks for the link matt!), turning off all enchancements, lowering sharpness, etc. and I still get a terrible looking image.

I haven't even seen SD tv on this, but the way things are going I'm afraid to even look at it. Many people have described problems with SSE on good HD content as well as jaggies with this set, from HD tv sports shows not just gaming.

If my XBOX 360/PS3 look great, HD tv content blows me away and I can get DVD's to look as good as everyone is describing, I will be very pleased with the tv. I have over 100 XBOX games, not to mention PS2, but with the next gen looming I won't mind so much if I can't play my old games.

At this point, I'm strongly considering exchanging my tv for a Panasonic Plasma or something else. If the store lets me that is. I'm really grateful to have a forum like this to get expert advice, because not knowing what the problems are or how to fix them is really frustrating for noobs like me.

Any suggestions on getting this set to look as good as what some are describing are appreciated.

-AC

Have you tried the Sony's "Game Mode" for your games?

Regarding DVD's. I just read where your DVD player is capable of upconverting to HD. However, you must use an HDMI cable to upconvert to 720P or 1080i. Suggest you try an HDMI cable.

However, there is no legitimate reason that DVD's via component to the SXRD should not look better than on s-video to a regular analog tv. As someone else said, make sure your DVD player is setup to send the signal to a 16x9 tv. Component should be fine. Experiment with both 480i and 480p signals to see which look best. Try Pro, Iris-2, Picture, Brightness, Color, and Hue on the Sony "dots". Decrease Sharpness to "little or nothing". Color Temp. to Warm, Noise reduction - off, Direct Mode-off, Game Mode-Off. Enter Advance Video and set DRC Mode to Cinemotion. Ignore DRC Palette since using Cinemotion bypasses it. Set BN Smoother to off, Advance Iris to low or medium, DTE and all the remaining to -off. Picture should look very good. It not, something is wrong with the DVD player, or the TV.

All my games look fine on my xbox. Much better then my old crt. Just because the xbox can do AA doesn't mean all the games use it. 480p is very low resolution for games.

I've got no motion artifacts or distortion on my tv.

Does anyone know what exactly what Game Mode does to the setting on our sets? Has anyone noticed a difference. I play in non-game mode without any lag or issues.

Thanks in advance

does this set lag on games like the Samsung's DLP, i have a pedestal one an HLR5087w and the lag on ps2 an xbox fighting games even with 480p is killing me, i am gonna change this set but right now i really don't know what to get. could you guys suggest me the best 720p native set to get? i have 4000US$ to spend, thanks in advance.

I have MX vs ATV Unleashed and it does look very nice. Incredible Hulk Ultimate destruction looks great as well and it's 720p. However most of the XBOX games have a lot of jaggies on this set which are distracting. XBOX is supposed to have antialiasing as part of the hardware so that's why it's so odd to see them exaggerated. I expect jaggies in the rare case when viewing a 480p xbox game without antialiasing, or any PS2 game. But in 720p, shouldn't jaggies be minimal at the most?


At this point, I'm strongly considering exchanging my tv for a Panasonic Plasma or something else. If the store lets me that is. I'm really grateful to have a forum like this to get expert advice, because not knowing what the problems are or how to fix them is really frustrating for noobs like me.

Any suggestions on getting this set to look as good as what some are describing are appreciated.

-AC

Sorry, but no large HDTV is going to make those 480P games look better or the ones you say have too many jaggies. That is the limitation of the XBOX and PS2. Garbage in - Garbage Out as they say. The original XBOX may have AA as part of the hardware, but that is only if the developer used it in their game. And of course they are "exaggerated", you are watching them on a 50" screen.

Before returning the SXRD, see if that store will let you hook up an XBOX to the plasma you were thinking about getting and see what it looks like? I bet you won't be happy with it either.

I would wait until the XBOX 360 comes out next week and see what the backwards compatability mode does for your old XBOX titles. Some titles like HALO and HALO 2 are being made to be 720P with Anti-Aliasing which will help a lot. The other option is to play your old XBOX games on a regular SD TV until you have moved on to the next generation games.

You say that MX vs ATV looks nice as well as The Hulk. Well dude, the next gen titles are going to look even better than those, trust me! Look to the future, not the past. :)

BTW, in case you didn't know you can put the XBOX control panel in 480P. Remove any disc you may have in the drive and go to the main screen. Hold down both triggers and at the same time press down on both analog sticks after a second you should see the screen change. To confirm it worked you can press the DISPLAY button on the SXRD's remote and it will say 480P. To put it back just do the same thing again. This works only if you have the XBOX LIVE update. If you never have used XBOX live it may or may not work.

Statistics given by the manufacturers are claiming 60000 hrs of life for a plasma. However, after 30000 hrs the picture will be only 50% as bright, compared to when the plasma was new.

I would be surprised if the numbers given are accurate. Plasma is a throw away
toy, and should be priced as such.

Everybody and their brother and their brothers dogs are putting out a plasma display. Why? Because the profit margins are HUGE!!!!!

The SXRD's will outlast any plasma. When it comes time to replace it, I will move it to the basement where it will play and play and play.

Yeah lets see even at 30,000 btw 60,000 is the rating) hours thats 21 years of 6 hour a day viewing.....Yeah thats a throw away alright. :confused: I do not think you will still have you SXRD then. But I could be wrong. :rolleyes: But my plasma will be hanging perhaps in my garage by then.

While you have nearly 24 inches of depth and a stand to deal with I will gladly hang a much less obtursive, more ergonomic plasma of any size on the wall and have a creamier less "Dick Tracy" looking PQ as well, while you wait for back ordered lamps and experience the deepest blacks you will ever notice while you wait.

Have you tried the Sony's "Game Mode" for your games?

Yeah, that was one of the first things I tried, and all it did was make the picture extremely blurry. The SSE still annoyingly came through. Especially on the King Kong game. The game looked like one big bush whenever I moved lol.

Regarding DVD's. I just read where your DVD player is capable of upconverting to HD. However, you must use an HDMI cable to upconvert to 720P or 1080i. Suggest you try an HDMI cable.

I tried, but right now I can't use HDMI since the tv is too close to the wall and I can't reach the input. I will be moving it to another room where I will have access and it will be one of the first things I try. There is a digital optical out for DD 5.1 but I know that HDMI has sound and video together. Does this mean I won't be able to run HDMI to the tv and run DD from the DVD player out to the receiver? Cause if it's between HDMI, and component+DD I will pick the latter.

However, there is no legitimate reason that DVD's via component to the SXRD should not look better than on s-video to a regular analog tv. As someone else said, make sure your DVD player is setup to send the signal to a 16x9 tv. Component should be fine. Experiment with both 480i and 480p signals to see which look best. Try Pro, Iris-2, Picture, Brightness, Color, and Hue on the Sony "dots". Decrease Sharpness to "little or nothing". Color Temp. to Warm, Noise reduction - off, Direct Mode-off, Game Mode-Off. Enter Advance Video and set DRC Mode to Cinemotion. Ignore DRC Palette since using Cinemotion bypasses it. Set BN Smoother to off, Advance Iris to low or medium, DTE and all the remaining to -off. Picture should look very good. It not, something is wrong with the DVD player, or the TV.

I have done all of this and still get grainy picture with macroblocking on the dvd's I've tried. Even when I reduce the brightness significantly with all others being equal, the source still looks garbage. 480p on the DVD looks slightly better than 480i but not much. I have tried the DVD player in the xbox as well and it looks the same, so my tv could be defective. I will contact my seller and have them come check it. I really wanted to love this tv...

Which DVD player are you using by the way? I will try and get the setup as close as possible to the one that people are getting great picture with.

For those of you playing xbox with none of the problems I've described, can you please post your exact settings/setup so I can experiment? If I can't get this looking good I have to consider returning/selling it. I did get a good price at least.

-AC

Have a few pictures on this page from Tony Hawk 4 (720P) and Burnout Revenge (480P)

http://www.digitalcameraobscura.com/gallery/v/hdtv/?g2_page=2&g2_navId=xffd33ec9

I will try to post more later of some 480P games.

As far as settings are concerned I just have that input set to PRO mode. I don't think I made any changes out of the box.

Have a few pictures on this page from Tony Hawk 4 (720P) and Burnout Revenge (480P)

I will try to post more later of some 480P games.

As far as settings are concerned I just have that input set to PRO mode. I don't think I made any changes out of the box.

Nice post. Those pics look nice, and the Burnout especially looks better than mine. What distance did you take those pics at? I am definitely gonna get a replacement and see if it's my set. Anybody know the advantages/disadvantages of this tv compared to panasonic plasma TH50PX500U? I know this set is 1080p, but I've read it can't even take a 1080p input like PS3 will be, which bothers me since that's the main reason to justify the higher cost of the set.

-AC

Yeah, that was one of the first things I tried, and all it did was make the picture extremely blurry. The SSE still annoyingly came through. Especially on the King Kong game. The game looked like one big bush whenever I moved lol.



I tried, but right now I can't use HDMI since the tv is too close to the wall and I can't reach the input. I will be moving it to another room where I will have access and it will be one of the first things I try. There is a digital optical out for DD 5.1 but I know that HDMI has sound and video together. Does this mean I won't be able to run HDMI to the tv and run DD from the DVD player out to the receiver? Cause if it's between HDMI, and component+DD I will pick the latter.



I have done all of this and still get grainy picture with macroblocking on the dvd's I've tried. Even when I reduce the brightness significantly with all others being equal, the source still looks garbage. 480p on the DVD looks slightly better than 480i but not much. I have tried the DVD player in the xbox as well and it looks the same, so my tv could be defective. I will contact my seller and have them come check it. I really wanted to love this tv...

Which DVD player are you using by the way? I will try and get the setup as close as possible to the one that people are getting great picture with.

For those of you playing xbox with none of the problems I've described, can you please post your exact settings/setup so I can experiment? If I can't get this looking good I have to consider returning/selling it. I did get a good price at least.

-AC

I use a Denon 2910 and HDMI but send DD to my receiver. The DVD player setup requires that I select "multi channel" to send the DD signal to my receiver. No audio goes over the HDMI. As an alternative, I could have selected 2 channel for the receiver or HDMI feed.

I would definitely have the TV serviced and returned if necessary. The TV, if working properly, with your DVD player should have a picture approaching HD. My DVD player (the same Faroudja chip as yours) doesn't look as good as good HD; but looks very close to HBO's most compressed HD movies on D*.

Good luck and just "push ahead". You like the TV and DVD component or HDMI definitely is not a weak point if it is working normally.

Have a few pictures on this page from Tony Hawk 4 (720P) and Burnout Revenge (480P)

http://www.digitalcameraobscura.com/gallery/v/hdtv/?g2_page=2&g2_navId=xffd33ec9

I will try to post more later of some 480P games.

As far as settings are concerned I just have that input set to PRO mode. I don't think I made any changes out of the box.

Very nice pics. Good illustrations of why the SXRD has been getting all those rave reviews.

Nice post. Those pics look nice, and the Burnout especially looks better than mine. What distance did you take those pics at? I am definitely gonna get a replacement and see if it's my set. Anybody know the advantages/disadvantages of this tv compared to panasonic plasma TH50PX500U? I know this set is 1080p, but I've read it can't even take a 1080p input like PS3 will be, which bothers me since that's the main reason to justify the higher cost of the set.

-AC

Those pics were taken about 8.5 to 9 feet away from my 60" set.

The main reason for the PS3 to output 1080P will be for Blu-Ray movies. I really doubt you are going to see any 1080P games. I believe as far as 1080P is concerned there is 1080P24 (which is 24 fps) and 1080P60 (60 fps). Blue-Ray will support 1080P24 but I don't think 1080P60. I doubt even the PS3 will have the horsepower to put out a game in 1080P60 with any decent level of detail. I also doubt developers are going to both with 1080P60 games when next to no one will be able to play them in that resolution.

Has Sony ever had a media format that stuck? ATRAC, Memory Stick, Betamax, and the list goes on.

Has Sony ever had a media format that stuck? ATRAC, Memory Stick, Betamax, and the list goes on.

I believe the Memory Stick has been around since '98, give or take a year or two.

The TV, if working properly, with your DVD player should have a picture approaching HD. My DVD player (the same Faroudja chip as yours) doesn't look as good as good HD; but looks very close to HBO's most compressed HD movies on D*.

Does this go for a component connection with 480p output, since my dvd player will only upconvert through HDMI I've been told?

Cause right now I have it connected through component outputting in 480p 16:9 format and the picture on all movies is extremely grainy and low-res looking. Nothing like what you are describing in terms of quality. I've tried all kinds of settings. Only thing left is to try HDMI connection.

Let me also ask you, if you get closer to the tv, do you notice a grainy texture to the screen on any dvds. If so, how close to the tv are you when you begin to notice?

-AC

I believe the Memory Stick has been around since '98, give or take a year or two.

I am aware of that.But its ONLY Sony products that works in while most other memory formats work in many different products. ATRAC is a Sony only format.

Sony is an arrogant company that marches to it's own drum and they are in trouble financially. Go figure.

I think Blu-Ray is in trouble already because of Sony's supposed adoption of it for PS3. Im placing my bets on HD DVD.

I am aware of that.But its ONLY Sony products that works in while most other memory formats work in many different products. ATRAC is a Sony only format.

Sony is an arrogant company that marches to it's own drum and they are in trouble financially. Go figure.

I think Blu-Ray is in trouble already because of Sony's supposed adoption of it for PS3. Im placing my bets on HD DVD.

LOL!

The vast majority of people on this board will disagree with you.

I am aware of that.But its ONLY Sony products that works in while most other memory formats work in many different products. ATRAC is a Sony only format.

Sony is an arrogant company that marches to it's own drum and they are in trouble financially. Go figure.

I think Blu-Ray is in trouble already because of Sony's supposed adoption of it for PS3. Im placing my bets on HD DVD.

Well, anyone can have their opinion of a company. That's fine. However, the backers of HD DVD would love to have their drives in something that will be as big as the PS3. The PS3 will be good market penetration for Blu Ray.

In regards to that bet. I hope it's not too late to get a refund. :p

LOL!

The vast majority of people on this board will disagree with you.
CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!Not you, him!
:p
(Meaning I AGREE with you!!!)

CRAZY!!!!!!!!!!Not you, him!
:p
(Meaning I AGREE with you!!!)

What do you mean? :confused:



:p ;)

Does this go for a component connection with 480p output, since my dvd player will only upconvert through HDMI I've been told?

Cause right now I have it connected through component outputting in 480p 16:9 format and the picture on all movies is extremely grainy and low-res looking. Nothing like what you are describing in terms of quality. I've tried all kinds of settings. Only thing left is to try HDMI connection.

Let me also ask you, if you get closer to the tv, do you notice a grainy texture to the screen on any dvds. If so, how close to the tv are you when you begin to notice?

-AC

I've read input from at least one ISF professional who claimed that component 480i/480p input from good DVD players (not experiencing Faroudja's macroblocking issues) was the preferred option for Qualia's and the new SXRD's. However, I've been very pleased with HDMI (tried component for only a couple minutes) and have experienced no macroblocking with my Denon.

Do you have an older DVD player; or could you borrow another DVD player from a friend, and try 480i/480p via component or even 480i via s-video? If they look bad, it is probably the TV and I would ask for a service call. If they look much better, then you know it is an issue with your DVD player or the combination of your DVD player and the TV.

I've never noticed any grainy issues. Up close, the pictures look close to how they look with HD.

Well, anyone can have their opinion of a company. That's fine. However, the backers of HD DVD would love to have their drives in something that will be as big as the PS3. The PS3 will be good market penetration for Blu Ray.

In regards to that bet. I hope it's not too late to get a refund. :p

NO I'll keep my bet.I seriously doubt People are going to use PS3's as their main DVD player nor will they pay a premium for BR over HD DVD. Money is always the determiner for the masses. From 10 feet away reg DVD willing all likely look the same anyway.

Blu-ray is only supporting MPEG-2 as the video codec ( the same as D-VHS). HD-DVD will use a new more efficient codec which can achieve a superior picture quality to Blu-ray rendering thr added capacity in BR nill.

The backers of HD DVD are collectively much larger and have much longer tentacles then a few burned out gamers and Sony who has failed to make any standard a true standard.. I don't see PS3 becoming the savior for BR. I don't see videophiles buy PS3 to use them as DVD players. They barely have a working prototype out and no one really knows what the final box will or will not have as is usual with Sony. HD DVD is a more natural progression from DVD and is much less expensive to produce.

This is VHS vs Betamax battle all over again. Unfortunately again for Sony, same result only this time both will be relegated to the SACD BINS. The same wow factor will not be there for most and the size is the same and the cost much more......just like the CD vs SACD. Reserved for those anal retentives who are addicted to technology for it's own sake.

Sony never got it. People will by the "acceptable" at a lesser expense everyday. and HD DVD will in the end because of it's technology and smaller capacity cost much less.r Sony's Columbia Pictures will release BR DVDS. ALL the other distributors will release their movies on both.

In the end people are cynical about new and better and will buy the less expensive which if history repeats yet again for the umteenth time bodes ill for Sony.

I am aware of that.But its ONLY Sony products that works in while most other memory formats work in many different products. ATRAC is a Sony only format.
Sony is an arrogant company that marches to it's own drum and they are in trouble financially. Go figure.
....

Sony's Professional Video division doesn't stand up to that "drum". Their Consumer Products and Entertainment products are not so much about innovation as "Follow me, Break, Replace!". Sony's XBR reputation was almost spotless (until I bought one :p ) then there was the 36" monstrosity (check threads, forums...). Suffice to say, the bigger you get, the harder you fall.

Anyway, back to the thread. What is a recommended DVD player (upscaler?) to use with the SXRD 50/60" ? I'm almost ready to buy one, but cautiously optimistic about the Optical Block issues (resolved?). I'd like to get the best image so DVI? HDMI? Component? (Samsung DVD-HD950 ?)

LOL!

The vast majority of people on this board will disagree with you.

I take no issue with that and accept that as fact. I am well aware I am in the minority here and do not see that as a hinderance to common sense and the abilty to make an informed decision. I am not swayed by a majority on a forum of over the top enthusiasts. I understand their need for the best and many are very anal in ownership as well after they have made their respective choices. I do not place myself in that category. I am an avg Joe.
who learns from people here and chaffs the wheat from the crap for use in my world which is much less about the technology and more about use and costs thereof.

The majority here are a minority in real world terms.The real world majority is usually content with their purchase for many years unlike the majority here who grimace at the "new and improved" TV that just hit the shelves three months after they unboxed their cruel mistress.

The vast majority on this forum are compulsive vidiophiles who look at specs first PQ later. The vast majority on this board do not represent the consumer who will ALWAYS determine the course of what the manufacturer's produce and at what cost. However, The vast minority on this board with respect to those very consumers will pay and do pay a premium for that which the consumer passes due to bang for the buck no matter how deep the blacks are. or whether they can actually ""see" the dust mites on the sheets during a Tom Cruise love scene at two feet from the display.

The vast majority of those NOT on this forum will determine the winners as they have in the past. I consider myself in that majority and in the minority here. Sony has always lost it's efforts at a universal standard. for better or worse most always due to the cost of superior technology most people do not care about.

Living in this little vacuum does not make what you want for the masses so either. Bang for the Buck is a term Sony needs to understand and et out of their vacuum as well.A $288 million loss in their consumer electronics division and ensuing layoffs is more then evidance of that.

Will PS3/BR save the day? I highly doubt it. No more then ATRAC won over Apple in their quest to capitilize on their walkman success. Arrogance is ok for an individual but not for a company culture.

I've read input from at least one ISF professional who claimed that component 480i/480p input from good DVD players (not experiencing Faroudja's macroblocking issues) was the preferred option for Qualia's and the new SXRD's. However, I've been very pleased with HDMI (tried component for only a couple minutes) and have experienced no macroblocking with my Denon.

Do you have an older DVD player; or could you borrow another DVD player from a friend, and try 480i/480p via component or even 480i via s-video? If they look bad, it is probably the TV and I would ask for a service call. If they look much better, then you know it is an issue with your DVD player or the combination of your DVD player and the TV.

I've never noticed any grainy issues. Up close, the pictures look close to how they look with HD.

I don't have another player aside from my xbox and ps2 which are supposed to be sub-par concerning PQ. I don't know why I'm getting such a bad picture, but it could be the player. Very interesting that you don't have any grainy issues even up close. Which Denon model do you have, the 2910? I am concerned with spending $500+ on a DVD player with HD-DVD and BR coming out next year. Most of the future movies we buy will be in High Def so those of us with a 720p/1080p set will most likely upgrade to the latest tech. I'm gonna be testing out the DVD player on the store's floor SXRD model to compare. If the image looks nice there then I know it's the tv. If it looks just as bad then it is either the DVD player or the image produced by the two together. If that's the case I'll get the Denon 2910 or another player most likely.

On a side note, I wanted to say that I tested out some of my newer xbox games on my old CRT and upon closer inspection I did notice all the same "jaggies"/resolution issues, and even some of the blurriness with fast motion. So maybe I was a little quick to jump the gun about how those 480p games look on the SXRD. I will be testing at a normal viewing distance in the next few days, and in a week with X360, so I'll post my impressions after that.

-AC

Sony's Professional Video division doesn't stand up to that "drum". Their Consumer Products and Entertainment products are not so much about innovation as "Follow me, Break, Replace!". Sony's XBR reputation was almost spotless (until I bought one :p ) then there was the 36" monstrosity (check threads, forums...). Suffice to say, the bigger you get, the harder you fall.

Anyway, back to the thread. What is a recommended DVD player (upscaler?) to use with the SXRD 50/60" ? I'm almost ready to buy one, but cautiously optimistic about the Optical Block issues (resolved?). I'd like to get the best image so DVI? HDMI? Component? (Samsung DVD-HD950 ?)

I have the 50" SXRD and bought the Sony NS70. There have been some negative comments about this player in earlier discussions but there were enough good ones to make me give it a shot (I admit to having a favorable bias toward Sony based on a few decades of past experience). I have have been very pleased and have experienced no problems. I'm using HDMI and the PQ in the DVDs I've watched so far has been virtually HD quality. I was just blown away by Batman Begins and Alias season four as a few examples. There are establishing shots of LA in Alias and the detail you can see in the distant mountains beyond the city is really sharp. I haven't seen the Samsung or other upscalers, but I have to wonder how much better it could get. Just my opinion, I could be wrong.

I have the 50" SXRD and bought the Sony NS70. There have been some negative comments about this player in earlier discussions but there were enough good ones to make me give it a shot (I admit to having a favorable bias toward Sony based on a few decades of past experience). I have have been very pleased and have experienced no problems. I'm using HDMI and the PQ in the DVDs I've watched so far has been virtually HD quality. I was just blown away by Batman Begins and Alias season four as a few examples. There are establishing shots of LA in Alias and the detail you can see in the distant mountains beyond the city is really sharp. I haven't seen the Samsung or other upscalers, but I have to wonder how much better it could get. Just my opinion, I could be wrong.
I am still waiting to take delivery opf my SXRD 60" and ended up buying the Panny S97...based on reviews here at AVS Forum. I can't wait to see it!!!
I too was AMAZED in the store at how good DVDs looked on this set. Very close to HD quality!

NO I'll keep my bet.I seriously doubt People are going to use PS3's as their main DVD player nor will they pay a premium for BR over HD DVD. Money is always the determiner for the masses. From 10 feet away reg DVD willing all likely look the same anyway.

Blu-ray is only supporting MPEG-2 as the video codec ( the same as D-VHS). HD-DVD will use a new more efficient codec which can achieve a superior picture quality to Blu-ray rendering thr added capacity in BR nill.

The backers of HD DVD are collectively much larger and have much longer tentacles then a few burned out gamers and Sony who has failed to make any standard a true standard.. I don't see PS3 becoming the savior for BR. I don't see videophiles buy PS3 to use them as DVD players. They barely have a working prototype out and no one really knows what the final box will or will not have as is usual with Sony. HD DVD is a more natural progression from DVD and is much less expensive to produce.

This is VHS vs Betamax battle all over again. Unfortunately again for Sony, same result only this time both will be relegated to the SACD BINS. The same wow factor will not be there for most and the size is the same and the cost much more......just like the CD vs SACD. Reserved for those anal retentives who are addicted to technology for it's own sake.

Sony never got it. People will by the "acceptable" at a lesser expense everyday. and HD DVD will in the end because of it's technology and smaller capacity cost much less.r Sony's Columbia Pictures will release BR DVDS. ALL the other distributors will release their movies on both.

In the end people are cynical about new and better and will buy the less expensive which if history repeats yet again for the umteenth time bodes ill for Sony.


Wow, welcome to last year. Blue Ray supports all the codecs that HD-DVD does. It is likely that they will soon support all the same security measures per HP's urging. They also have support from all major movie studios except one, which HD-DVD can't say right now.

Let's see. Same codecs. Better studio support. Good support from the pc hardware world. More storage space and better interface designs ( I believe they had an advangtage there). They will have a guarenteed installed base of 1:1 with PS3 owners (surely to be in the millions world wide). Yeah they seem doomed.

You really hate Sony don't you.

Question: Doesn't the Sony only have one HDMI input? If that is the case what do you do if your Sat. receiver is HDMI and your DVD is HDMI? is there such a thing as a splitter out there for an HDMI so you would be able to use it for both or are you just screwed... Thanks

Thanks.... I am sitting here holding a spec sheet I downloaded from somewhere that says it only has one and thought oh no scratch another off the list but I am only down the this and one other one that I can't find to look at anyway and thats the HP. I hear its a pretty good set as well. But thanks makes me feel better as I did like the picture on the 60" I saw, could do without the ears but oh well...

I have the panny 97s and a 60" sxrd. While I am pleased with dvd's, it cannot compare with hd. I have the "I, Robot" dvd and have seen the same movie on HD HBO. As soon as you compare the robot's face you will know what I am talking about - even not seeing them side by side. I don't think it would matter what player you use, there will be a noticable difference. On another note, I can't believe the color accuracy of the set. I watched the Dolphins and the Vikings (two different games) and was amazed on how sharp and true uniform and helmet colors appeared. A big change from my former crt. Anyone who is worried about display problems with the set need not worry. If you are unhappy with the picture it will be because of the quality of the input or perhaps a defective set. On another note a strong 5.1 (or 7.1) sound system is a requirement for full enjoyment. For example, I was hesitant about changing my old 8" Cambridge Sound subwoofer to a 12" Hsu but am glad I did.

I take no issue with that and accept that as fact. I am well aware I am in the minority here and do not see that as a hinderance to common sense and the abilty to make an informed decision. I am not swayed by a majority on a forum of over the top enthusiasts. I understand their need for the best and many are very anal in ownership as well after they have made their respective choices. I do not place myself in that category. I am an avg Joe.
who learns from people here and chaffs the wheat from the crap for use in my world which is much less about the technology and more about use and costs thereof.

The majority here are a minority in real world terms.The real world majority is usually content with their purchase for many years unlike the majority here who grimace at the "new and improved" TV that just hit the shelves three months after they unboxed their cruel mistress.

The vast majority on this forum are compulsive vidiophiles who look at specs first PQ later. The vast majority on this board do not represent the consumer who will ALWAYS determine the course of what the manufacturer's produce and at what cost. However, The vast minority on this board with respect to those very consumers will pay and do pay a premium for that which the consumer passes due to bang for the buck no matter how deep the blacks are. or whether they can actually ""see" the dust mites on the sheets during a Tom Cruise love scene at two feet from the display.

The vast majority of those NOT on this forum will determine the winners as they have in the past. I consider myself in that majority and in the minority here. Sony has always lost it's efforts at a universal standard. for better or worse most always due to the cost of superior technology most people do not care about.

Living in this little vacuum does not make what you want for the masses so either. Bang for the Buck is a term Sony needs to understand and et out of their vacuum as well.A $288 million loss in their consumer electronics division and ensuing layoffs is more then evidance of that.

Will PS3/BR save the day? I highly doubt it. No more then ATRAC won over Apple in their quest to capitilize on their walkman success. Arrogance is ok for an individual but not for a company culture.


The problem with your analysis is that you have it backwards. You say that people on this forum, the videophiles, will not be the ones who determine which format wins. I don't think that is true. This will still be a niche format at launch, and your avg Joe is perfectly happy with SD DVD. Thus, it isn't a matter of whether Joe six pack will think HD-DVD is "good enough", because SD DVD is already "good enough". And SD DVD will probably not be going away any time soon, so the new HD Disc format winner will more than likely be determined by the home theater enthusiast like those who visit this forum. And we know where they stand! ;)

Videophile schmideophine. How many of you "experts" have seen Blu-ray? Well I have, and there is NOTHING like it. And the SXRDs are as good as it gets. If you don't like their PQ you can be assured that the source is crap.

The problem with your analysis is that you have it backwards. You say that people on this forum, the videophiles, will not be the ones who determine which format wins. I don't think that is true. This will still be a niche format at launch, and your avg Joe is perfectly happy with SD DVD. Thus, it isn't a matter of whether Joe six pack will think HD-DVD is "good enough", because SD DVD is already "good enough". And SD DVD will probably not be going away any time soon, so the new HD Disc format winner will more than likely be determined by the home theater enthusiast like those who visit this forum. And we know where they stand! ;)


You make a very good point. Will Joe six pack that's watching analog cable on their HD TV going out to buy a $1K HD DVD player to replace their 480i player that they're happy with? Not likely.

does this set lag on games like the Samsung's DLP, i have a pedestal one an HLR5087w and the lag on ps2 an xbox fighting games even with 480p is killing me, i am gonna change this set but right now i really don't know what to get. could you guys suggest me the best 720p native set to get? i have 4000US$ to spend, thanks in advance.

I have been playing XBOX on this set for a week now and I have hardly noticed any lag at all. In NBA Live I noticed a slight lag when shooting free throws. As well as in Star Wars Battlefront there is a slight lag aiming. It's so minimal that it's not even worth mentioning. I've been playing GUN for hours and the aiming is extremely responsive. I don't think this lag is comparible to the Samsung DLPs at all. I will post more comments after I play some X360 on it next week.

-AC

You make a very good point. Will Joe six pack that's watching analog cable on their HD TV going out to buy a $1K HD DVD player to replace their 480i player that they're happy with? Not likely.

Right.

Unfortunately, this also means that the overall success of the HD disc format may be somewhat dubious as well.

Right.

Unfortunately, this also means that the overall success of the HD disc format may be somewhat dubious as well.

And thats my point. You guys will indeed determine who will win the battle. Joe six-pack determines who wins the war.

Thus which technology if either will become affordable and which will always be a costly expense for those relative few who want to and can see those dust mites on the sheets. SACD is a great example of Joe sixpack's apathy for extreme quality. Even Joe's sons and daughters would rather listen to lossy music for the sheer convienience over even lossless CDs. This continuing trend does not bode well for affordable HD DVD players and content.

Kind of getting off-thread topic here guys. HD-DVD vs Blu-ray belongs in another part of the forum.

Update: connected my Panasonic S77 with HDMI and upconverted to 1080i and still got grainy picture on Twister, Daredevil, Moulin Rouge. Image was better on Bad Boys II, but still not approaching HD. And this is the best connection I can have with the tv so it shouldn't be grainy at all unless the dvds are just of poor quality. Gonna try the player out on the store floor model tomorrow with the same dvds to compare.

For those of you who have gotten what you feel is "near HD" quality with this set or at least among the best PQ you have seen, which movies were you watching and on which dvd player?

-AC

Kind of getting off-thread topic here guys. HD-DVD vs Blu-ray belongs in another part of the forum.

Update: connected my Panasonic S77 with HDMI and upconverted to 1080i and still got grainy picture on Twister, Daredevil, Moulin Rouge. Image was better on Bad Boys II, but still not approaching HD. And this is the best connection I can have with the tv so it shouldn't be grainy at all unless the dvds are just of poor quality. Gonna try the player out on the store floor model tomorrow with the same dvds to compare.

For those of you who have gotten what you feel is "near HD" quality with this set or at least among the best PQ you have seen, which movies were you watching and on which dvd player?

-AC

Fifth Element Superbit with Denon 3910 upconverting to 1080i via HDMI. TV settings pro, warm, picture 45, brightness 18, iris 2/low, sharpness/image enhancements either low or off. If this DVD doesn't look great on your TV, then something's wrong somewhere.

I don't have another player aside from my xbox and ps2 which are supposed to be sub-par concerning PQ. I don't know why I'm getting such a bad picture, but it could be the player. Very interesting that you don't have any grainy issues even up close. Which Denon model do you have, the 2910? I am concerned with spending $500+ on a DVD player with HD-DVD and BR coming out next year. Most of the future movies we buy will be in High Def so those of us with a 720p/1080p set will most likely upgrade to the latest tech. I'm gonna be testing out the DVD player on the store's floor SXRD model to compare. If the image looks nice there then I know it's the tv. If it looks just as bad then it is either the DVD player or the image produced by the two together. If that's the case I'll get the Denon 2910 or another player most likely.

On a side note, I wanted to say that I tested out some of my newer xbox games on my old CRT and upon closer inspection I did notice all the same "jaggies"/resolution issues, and even some of the blurriness with fast motion. So maybe I was a little quick to jump the gun about how those 480p games look on the SXRD. I will be testing at a normal viewing distance in the next few days, and in a week with X360, so I'll post my impressions after that.

-AC

Yes, I have the 2910. Despite the fact that it has the Faroudja chip, known for macroblocking, I've experience no macroblocking or any other problems. The upconverted 1080i over HDMI is great.

With the problems you describe, even the xbox/ps2 at 480i with component or s-video should give a better picture (if the problem is your DVD player).

I have just bought the 50" SXBR set. I am trying to set up a DVD player and cable DVR box both through the two HDMI connections on the TV. Only on of the two connections seems to work. Are these two connections both fully capable and interchangeable? Is there some reason one wouldn't work?
I have gotten excellent PQ on the antenna and DVD separately and pretty good cable box PQ without extensive calibration and tuning. But I can't cable box and DVD to work when both are connected to the HDMI connections.

I have just bought the 50" SXBR set. I am trying to set up a DVD player and cable DVR box both through the two HDMI connections on the TV. Only on of the two connections seems to work. Are these two connections both fully capable and interchangeable? Is there some reason one wouldn't work?
I have gotten excellent PQ on the antenna and DVD separately and pretty good cable box PQ without extensive calibration and tuning. But I can't cable box and DVD to work when both are connected to the HDMI connections.

I have the 50" with the D* HD receiver and an upscaler DVD player hooked into the two HDMI inputs with no problems. Not only that, I have basic Time Warner cable with HD to get the networks, as you can't get all the networks on D* in the greater Palm Springs area, which sucks (I was stuck with basic cable anyway when my HOA negotiated a good HOA deal and voted it in for the community, payment not optional). I switch one HDMI cable between the DVD and the HD cable box depending on which one I'm using and this works just fine - video 7 does not care. In short, the two connections should be fully capable and interchangeable based on my experience.

Old Pro- My problem comes from trying to connect the cable box/HDR and the DVD player to the two HDMI inputs at the same time. If I connect only one that device works.

Old Pro- My problem comes from trying to connect the cable box/HDR and the DVD player to the two HDMI inputs at the same time. If I connect only one that device works.

I always have two connected at the same time. The D* HD receiver is always connected to one HDMI input and either the HD cable box or the DVD player is always connected to the other HDMI input. All I can say is that it works for me and I have no clue why it would not work for you. Someone more qualified would have to suggest if it's a tv, setting or device issue.

Hi - Guys I have been reading a lot about SXRD in this thread and I'm thankful to each and everyone of your input.
I just called SonyStyle sutomer service to get a clarification on HDMI input ( remember the spec say KDS-R*xbr1 support 480i, 480p,720p and 1080i). According to the technician I spoke to the set will very well handle 1080p ( i asked him with sample products like PS3 and NuNeo DVD player). Has anyone in this forum already checked on this? I just wanted to double check before I pour thousands in a new teshnology.

Fifth Element Superbit with Denon 3910 upconverting to 1080i via HDMI. TV settings pro, warm, picture 45, brightness 18, iris 2/low, sharpness/image enhancements either low or off. If this DVD doesn't look great on your TV, then something's wrong somewhere.

Ok cool, I will try that setup with my panasonic s77. Btw, anybody who has the panasonic s77 with this tv able to set up Dolby Digital while connecting the dvd through HDMI?

The panny is set up to multi channel and I have the digital optical out going straight to receiver, but I can't get surround sound. I turned HDMI audio output off, but the surround still only works if I have the player connected to the SXRD through component not HDMI. It's weird because the audio test in the dvd player's menu will register sound for the front left and right speakers, but none of the others. However, when I actually play a movie no sound comes at all. So frustrating to have this gorgeous looking dvd and no surround :( Anyone know what I'm doing wrong? I will also check to find a panny s77 thread around to find the answer, but any help is appreciated.

PQ update: Got a new HDMI cable btw, and the picture is much better now. This IS an incredible display when everything is set up properly, and you aren't watching dvd's from 10 years ago with crappy source quality lol. This is my first HDTV so I am quite noob when it comes to all this stuff. Thanks for all the advice and help from you guys, I'll give another update next week when I get X360.

-AC

Hi - Guys I have been reading a lot about SXRD in this thread and I'm thankful to each and everyone of your input.
I just called SonyStyle sutomer service to get a clarification on HDMI input ( remember the spec say KDS-R*xbr1 support 480i, 480p,720p and 1080i). According to the technician I spoke to the set will very well handle 1080p ( i asked him with sample products like PS3 and NuNeo DVD player). Has anyone in this forum already checked on this? I just wanted to double check before I pour thousands in a new teshnology.

He's unsurprisingly wrong. The highest input format is 1080i, not 1080p. The TV itself is 1080p as in everyhing gets converted to that, but that has nothing to do with what its inputs can accept.

Ok cool, I will try that setup with my panasonic s77. Btw, anybody who has the panasonic s77 with this tv able to set up Dolby Digital while connecting the dvd through HDMI?

The panny is set up to multi channel and I have the digital optical out going straight to receiver, but I can't get surround sound. I turned HDMI audio output off, but the surround still only works if I have the player connected to the SXRD through component not HDMI. It's weird because the audio test in the dvd player's menu will register sound for the front left and right speakers, but none of the others. However, when I actually play a movie no sound comes at all. So frustrating to have this gorgeous looking dvd and no surround Anyone know what I'm doing wrong? I will also check to find a panny s77 thread around to find the answer, but any help is appreciated.

PQ update: Got a new HDMI cable btw, and the picture is much better now. This IS an incredible display when everything is set up properly, and you aren't watching dvd's from 10 years ago with crappy source quality lol. This is my first HDTV so I am quite noob when it comes to all this stuff. Thanks for all the advice and help from you guys, I'll give another update next week when I get X360.

-AC

DD will not be accepted by the TV throughh HDMI. I believe no TV out there accepts it. Either set it to 2-channel stereo or send the DD to a separate receiver. By the way, why DD to the TV since it has only 2 speakers (and I doubt the sound modes are good enough to re-create a sense of 3D with only 2 speakers anyway) ?

sunnygunny: Maybe if they can come out with an upgrade but that is a long way off. I doubt there will be much in the way of 1080P games or movie rentals for a long time to come.

Has Sony ever had a media format that stuck? ATRAC, Memory Stick, Betamax, and the list goes on.
There is that little item called a CD. It has done OK as a media format. :) :) :)

DD will not be accepted by the TV throughh HDMI. I believe no TV out there accepts it. Either set it to 2-channel stereo or send the DD to a separate receiver. By the way, why DD to the TV since it has only 2 speakers (and I doubt the sound modes are good enough to re-create a sense of 3D with only 2 speakers anyway) ?

Sorry for the confusion. I don't have DD going to the tv, I don't see where I said that in the post, but sorry if it sounded like that. I have HDMI going to the tv for video only. I have digital optical going to my Onkyo Receiever directly. With this setup I can't get any sound from my surround setup. I have panasonic and multi-channel and HDMI audio output disabled.

Update: I managed to get sound to come from my surround by switching the panasonic settings from "Bitstream" to "PCM" under the Dolby Digital and DTS audio settings in the dvd player audio menu, and setting PCM to 192mhz or something. But what is PCM? I have a feeling it's not really in DD 5.1. Can anyone clarify?

sunnygunny: Maybe if they can come out with an upgrade but that is a long way off. I doubt there will be much in the way of 1080P games or movie rentals for a long time to come.

Thanks guys for the response. I asked the SonyStyle tech guy "What will happen if I plug in PS3 or NeuNeo DVD player that output 1080p?", he said, it will work fine. Can anybody here call SonyStlye again ( may be you talk to a different tech person)? Whats the point in getting a TV for some 4K and the set not supporting full HDTV in the future!
Thanks

Wow! I set this set up Sunday. I am very impressed with the PQ. Its dazzling over the air, and on HD cable, and the DVD viewing is impressive as well. I think any one who is getting a soft image has something set up incorrectly, or is using bad cables.

I do wonder if many wouldn't have trouble with connections and set up though. I am sure this applies to any setup where the user attempts to set up for antenna, cable DVR, and DVD. There a lot of options to master on the controlers as well.

Thanks guys for the response. I asked the SonyStyle tech guy "What will happen if I plug in PS3 or NeuNeo DVD player that output 1080p?", he said, it will work fine. Can anybody here call SonyStlye again ( may be you talk to a different tech person)? Whats the point in getting a TV for some 4K and the set not supporting full HDTV in the future!
Thanks

I think what the rep means is that the TV DOES support full HDTV in 1080p, but not in native format. Most likely the PS3 will have the option to output in several resolutions like XBOX/X360 do and the tv's internals will do the deinterlacing from 1080i to 1080p, or perhaps upconvert from 720p to 1080p. But then again I am rather noob about this stuff.

Of course the PS3 will output 720P and 1080i just like every other box.

Ok cool, I will try that setup with my panasonic s77. Btw, anybody who has the panasonic s77 with this tv able to set up Dolby Digital while connecting the dvd through HDMI?

The panny is set up to multi channel and I have the digital optical out going straight to receiver, but I can't get surround sound. I turned HDMI audio output off, but the surround still only works if I have the player connected to the SXRD through component not HDMI. -AC

I've got the Panasonic S97, so I'm not sure that everything works the same, but it's connected to the SXRD set via HDMI with a direct digital audio output from the DVD player to the receiver as you do. As far as the DVD player settings are concerned, HDMI audio is left on, and Dolby and DTS are both set to Bitstream. With that configuration, I get sound not only to the television, but concurrent DD 5.1 output to the receiver as well.

Have had my 50 inch for a week. Loving it. Does anyone know if the Iris
can be set to a fixed spot. I see occasional moments were a scene will get
brighter. I believe this is that auto iris function. It would be great if you could
manually set and not have it jump aroung in brightness.

Also has anyone had trouble using a surround sound receiver. Never noticed it before but my receiver audio is delayed by about 4 frames compared with the
audio coming out of the tV. It must be a receiver limitation. I have a Yamaha 5440. This happens on all inputs. The only thing I can figure is that the TV is
more efficient and the receiver is not processing the audio fast enough.

Glad to join the group. and thanks to all the posts. I read here for about a month before I took the plung. Very happy with the 50 inch and glad I did not do the 60.
ed

Have had my 50 inch for a week. Loving it. Does anyone know if the Iris
can be set to a fixed spot. I see occasional moments were a scene will get
brighter. I believe this is that auto iris function. It would be great if you could
manually set and not have it jump aroung in brightness.

Also has anyone had trouble using a surround sound receiver. Never noticed it before but my receiver audio is delayed by about 4 frames compared with the
audio coming out of the tV. It must be a receiver limitation. I have a Yamaha 5440. This happens on all inputs. The only thing I can figure is that the TV is
more efficient and the receiver is not processing the audio fast enough.

Glad to join the group. and thanks to all the posts. I read here for about a month before I took the plung. Very happy with the 50 inch and glad I did not do the 60.
ed

Hi,

Could you please tell me how far you're sitting from the 50"?

Thanks

Kind of getting off-thread topic here guys. HD-DVD vs Blu-ray belongs in another part of the forum.

Update: connected my Panasonic S77 with HDMI and upconverted to 1080i and still got grainy picture on Twister, Daredevil, Moulin Rouge. Image was better on Bad Boys II, but still not approaching HD. And this is the best connection I can have with the tv so it shouldn't be grainy at all unless the dvds are just of poor quality. Gonna try the player out on the store floor model tomorrow with the same dvds to compare.

For those of you who have gotten what you feel is "near HD" quality with this set or at least among the best PQ you have seen, which movies were you watching and on which dvd player?

-AC

The quality of DVDs are all over the map. Some are quite good, others quite grainy. Even with an Excellent DVD the upconverted image will still pale compared to a pure 1080i image. Just watch some movies on HDNet or HDHBO or OTA HD Broadcasts for Comparison. Note that even there the image quality will vary a some depending on the conversion process they used and the bit rate for transmission.

The quality of DVDs are all over the map. Some are quite good, others quite grainy. Even with an Excellent DVD the upconverted image will still pale compared to a pure 1080i image. Just watch some movies on HDNet or HDHBO or OTA HD Broadcasts for Comparison. Note that even there the image quality will vary a some depending on the conversion process they used and the bit rate for transmission.

I have a Toshiba DVD/DCR combo player connected with component cables. Several DVD's have looked almost like HD. I first tried an HDMI connection and had two problems. One was a grainy picture with diagonal line artifacts at edges in the scene. The movie was Million Dollar Baby. The other problem was that I didn't seem to be able to get two components connected via HDMI, I was using one for the DVD player and the other for a cable DVR box. Because of this second problem, I changed the DVD player to component cables and got great performance on the same and other movies.

I think it might be worth you trying another type of connection for the DVD and see if you get better results. I would be interested in what you find.

The other problem was that I didn't seem to be able to get two components connected via HDMI, I was using one for the DVD player and the other for a cable DVR box.

It sounds as if you have an issue either with the HDMI inputs on your TV, or one of your cables. You should be able to connect both components. Like you, I have a DVD player and an HD cable DVR box, both with HDMI outputs, and both are connected with no issues. Did you try swapping ports or cables to see if you could isolate the problem?

I have a Toshiba DVD/DCR combo player connected with component cables. Several DVD's have looked almost like HD. I first tried an HDMI connection and had two problems. One was a grainy picture with diagonal line artifacts at edges in the scene. The movie was Million Dollar Baby. The other problem was that I didn't seem to be able to get two components connected via HDMI, I was using one for the DVD player and the other for a cable DVR box. Because of this second problem, I changed the DVD player to component cables and got great performance on the same and other movies.

I think it might be worth you trying another type of connection for the DVD and see if you get better results. I would be interested in what you find.

I am using component input for the DVD players and HDMI for the HD TIVO. When I upgrade to a HD DVD player next year I'll use the other HDMI input.

Hi,

Could you please tell me how far you're sitting from the 50"?

Thanks


My couch is about 12 from the screen. I looked at both the 50 and 60 next to each other and found the imperfections show up more on the 60. ALso the 60 would have overpowered our living room.
ed

I'm 13' from our current TV. I would not even consider going with anything less than the 60".

You would need to turn the advanced (dynamic/auto) iris in the advanced picture settings menu (Pro picture mode) and just use the static iris. That aside, which setting are you using for the dynamic iris? I see very little brightness changes between light/dark scenes with it set to Low.

How do you access the "Advanced Picture Menue"? I set to "Pro" on the picture menu, but am unable to find a menue that allows the the dynamic iris to be turned off, or colors to be adusted individually.

How do you access the "Advanced Picture Menue"? I set to "Pro" on the picture menu, but am unable to find a menue that allows the the dynamic iris to be turned off, or colors to be adusted individually.

The menus scroll down. Just keep going down and you'll see more.

Not sure how you can miss it. As long as you are in Pro mode and scroll down to the bottom of the Video menu you'll find the Advanced option that provides access to another menu that contains the Advanced Iris and other settings.
See pages 81-84 of the manual.

Or scroll up "one" from where you select Pro mode. "Click on" Advance Settings and the second menu comes up on the screen.

My couch is about 12 from the screen. I looked at both the 50 and 60 next to each other and found the imperfections show up more on the 60. ALso the 60 would have overpowered our living room.
ed

Wow. I am sitting about 9 1/2 feet away from my 60" SXRD and I think I could have gone bigger if there was a bigger version available (not that I would have wanted to spend more than I already have).

Thanks guys on the menu tip. I should have found that myself.

Has anyone had experience using one of the programable remote controlers with this set. I am trying to make using our set up more idiot proof for my techno phobe wife. I have a DVD/VCR player, Receiver/Tuner surround sound system, and a DVR/Cable Box.

The quality of DVDs are all over the map. Some are quite good, others quite grainy. Even with an Excellent DVD the upconverted image will still pale compared to a pure 1080i image. Just watch some movies on HDNet or HDHBO or OTA HD Broadcasts for Comparison. Note that even there the image quality will vary a some depending on the conversion process they used and the bit rate for transmission.

You are right on the money. I just had HD cable set up this past week and I am floored with the quality of this set. Some DVDs def looked better than others, but nothing compares to 1080i HD from what I've seen. The cable installer said it was the best picture he's ever seen of all the installs he's done. As well, I realize now that the problems I was seeing on my xbox games were the fault of the system, not the set. I will give an update on this with my impressions of the x360 games I've gotten, but so far I am blown away by the quality of some of the 1080i HD stuff on InHD channel, and sports games in HD. The variance in quality of HD feeds is apparent as well so I can see what you mean about HD looking better or worse on diff channels.

Bottom Line: Go get this set now!

Has anyone had experience using one of the programable remote controlers with this set. I am trying to make using our set up more idiot proof for my techno phobe wife. I have a DVD/VCR player, Receiver/Tuner surround sound system, and a DVR/Cable Box.


I'm using the Logitech Harmony 880 with my 60. Still working out a few kinks but its performing superbly. The best features of this remote are the web-based programming capability and the "activities" function where all your devices can be linked in a logical chain to turn on and off when needed to watch a DVD or TV or change source(s). Nice piece of kit. Had to get Logitech to update its device drivers on their website to get all the required inputs incl. the 2XHDMI on Input 7 to work. So it should now be OK for all!
Hope this helps.

http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/products/features/harmony/US/EN,CRID=2078

I'm happy with the 880 and my 50" SXRD.

Anybody using the SXRD 60-in with a Bravo D1 DVD player via the DVI to HDMI connection? I hooked mine up last weekend and was rewarded with 720p that looked amazing with some Superbit DVDs (Spidy 2) and also Moulin Rouge!. However on 1080i the colors were very bizarre with blue faces and other anomalies. I was surprised it passed any signal on 720p as the Bravo to the best of my knowledge isn't HDCP compliant. I can certainly live with the 720p upscaling on the Bravo until I get my mitts on a Blu-Ray or HD-DVD player but I'd be curious to know if anyone else has this combo.

Has anyone had experience using one of the programable remote controlers with this set. I am trying to make using our set up more idiot proof for my techno phobe wife. I have a DVD/VCR player, Receiver/Tuner surround sound system, and a DVR/Cable Box.


I am also using the Harmony 880 with this set. It works great and the wife loves it. I have the same type of equipment you have.

AkaStp, are you using version 4 or 5 of the Harmony software?

I had version 4 with my 880 remote, but had to load v5 for my mother's 520 (v4 won't recognize it). Now, I use the website to configure, then save the config file to my HD. v5 will load them just like v4 did, but this lets me avoid v5's horribly-designed interface.

I've heard that older remotes used XML. I sure wish they'd stay with that. Still, the 880 is the best buy remote out there, at least to me.

I wouldn't mind developing a user-friendly interface for them though. Something that places the importance of functionality over appearance.

Hey guys, my family and I are in the market for a 60" projection tv for the basement. I have been doing some research on this site and a couple things confused me.

First I just wanted to know if this thread is talking about the same set as this one:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=584936

That thread describes some of the problems with the SXRD, like the blue hue in darkness.

Do your SXRD's have the same problem?

Its goin to be hard persuading my father to get such an expensive set at around $4500 however it's viable. If things don't work out then what would you guys consider the next best looking 60"+ for a cheaper price that has great PQ. I was thinking something from the Samsung line.

One other thing is that I am looking for a TV that supports 1080P just because the PS3 will be able 1080P compatible and I will be using this TV for gaming as well as regular TV watching and of course, those night time DVDs.

OT Content follows:

First, don't start up v5 of the software. Go to www.logitech.com directly in your browser. Under products, point to Harmony Remote Controls, then select member login. After logging in with the same ID/pwd you've already set up, click the "Update My Remote" button near the upper left.

Once it prepares the download file for your setup, which may take a minute or so, choose the save option for the file download dialog box rather than opening the file. Then, you can simply double-click the Update.EZHex file from within explorer. Assuming the Harmony remote software created the correct file association for you, double-clicking should open the software, load the new config onto the remote, and then shutdown the software down. You won't have to deal with that awful interface, and you'll have backup files on hand!

I've kept a history of files, with notes about what changes were made in each. There's no method provided for loading a saved file back onto the website, nor is there a way to read the file. Although it starts off with a block of XML code, most of it is hex (probably compressed XML, since the website mentions compression as a step of the download process). It might be possible to capture what may still be true XML code using a debugger on the HR software, but that's more effort than I'm willing to put into it.

I think you'll find the website interface to be better, but still lacking, from a performance standpoint especially. I just hope the web interface remains long enough for them to figure out how bad v5 is from a functional standpoint.

BTW - the 520 may have been the first remote shippedwith v5 of the software. I just bought an 880 2 months ago that came with v4. v4 is a background, stub app that simply uses your default browser to access the website, rather than a custom version of Mozilla. I've already let them know what I think about v5's pretty but totalling aggravating interface. Hopefully enough others will complain so they won't continue using it as designed. It was obviously built by someone who places appearance way ahead of functionality. They probably don't use a Harmony themselves, or only have a 1 or 2 component system with just a couple of activities. I've got 10 components with 15 activities. Had v5 been what shipped with my 880, I would have returned it and bought another brand.

Hope this helps!

Not by a user, but Logitech's tech support can clone one setup for use on another remote. They took my 880 setup and cloned it, as a starting point for my mother's system using a 520. We share a few common components.

But, you will have to maintain 1 configuration/id/pwd for each remote. At least they can get you started without having to go from scratch.

Since the last ten or so posts have been in regard to the Harmony remote control I guess this is no longer the "Sony SXRD 50" and 60" - Oct/Nov" thread and we should move over to the official thread at http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=584936

Well, the harmony remotes do a great job controlling the SXRD's. Which is kind of a shame, since the SXRD remote is the nicest built remote I've ever owned.

There - we're back on topic! :cool: