i wonder if the newer batch of x3 that come in Costco will already have the new firmware...i hope they do b/c i really dont want a tech who doesnt know his stuff too well in the house

Man I wish I lived up North. I wonder why they would only carry them up North?

Man I wish I lived up North. I wonder why they would only carry them up North?

im in the north and they dont have the x3 here....

I would really like to have a X3 again. I did see the new Philips unit CostCo was carrying and without it being powered on it looked nice. I noticed a USB on the side that you can use a pen drive and update firmware. I am going to go back this weekend and see if they have the Philips hooked up to a feed.

I would really like to have a X3 again. I did see the new Philips unit CostCo was carrying and without it being powered on it looked nice. I noticed a USB on the side that you can use a pen drive and update firmware. I am going to go back this weekend and see if they have the Philips hooked up to a feed.


the philips does indeed look very nice...it also comes with a built-in tuner...i was comparing the philips with the xm11 side by side and the pq was equally nice in both...i think i may just spring for the philips if the x3 does not show up...

vasichko, let me know your thoughts about the philips.

I've been following this thread for about a week and REALLY want to get one of these but looks as if my Costco's are out as well. Is there any other dealer that carries the Maxents?

Also, I was at CC last night and noticed they had in the Maxent 11MX model which is the older one. Well, the pq was extremely nice. Actually as nice as anything they had in the store. Am I looking at the same 11MX that everyone else it claiming BB's is terrible? I have yet to see the 42X3 but from what I saw of the 11 model...I'de say only the Pioneers were better.

This is coming from someone who owns a 34" XBR910 Sony tube and I put PQ first.

Read back a few pages Kristopher...apparently the MX11 has been improved by Maxent and all reports are that it looks better than any of the older Best Buy models.

I purchased the x3 at Costco last week. I've have the set hooked up via HDMI formatted to 720p and am using the HD Tivo receiver from Directv. Today I turned on the set and had a black screen with no picture. I hit the format button on the receiver and the picture came on. I know there are issues with HDMI and color on the x3, but has anyone had problems with HDMI and no picture?

Has anyone had a problem with Maxent customer service calling back? I left a message last week (12/1 or 12/2) and again this week (12/7 or 12/8) and neither time has anyone called me back. It's kind of irritating when you call their customer service and get a voice mail and then they don't return the messages you leave. Any advice?

[QUOTE=orangedawg]Has anyone had a problem with Maxent customer service calling back? I left a message last week (12/1 or 12/2) and again this week (12/7 or 12/8) and neither time has anyone called me back. It's kind of irritating when you call their customer service and get a voice

I emailed them regaring the issue with my X3 and never got a response. When I have called during business hours I have always gotten through to speak with someone.

damit...i wonder if the x3 will come back to costco...right now i only see x11 and im leaning towards the philips over that

I was in Costco in San Francisco this evening. They had the new MX11 on display (still no more MX3's) and the PQ looked pretty good to me. One disadvantage for some people would be that the MX11 appears not to have any built-in speakers. Others might view that as a good thing, I suppose. :-)

you know the x3 was on display in jersey but the boxes were all 11's. the x3 looked like the best picture in the place.. but they fed the really expensive sets with coax, laff.

the vizio also looked pretty good.

you know the x3 was on display in jersey but the boxes were all 11's. the x3 looked like the best picture in the place.. but they fed the really expensive sets with coax, laff.

the vizio also looked pretty good.

Hmm. I wonder what the deal is then? Some have them some don't. I guess we just wait.

you know the x3 was on display in jersey but the boxes were all 11's. the x3 looked like the best picture in the place.. but they fed the really expensive sets with coax, laff.

the vizio also looked pretty good.

where in jersey?!

Hello All
I was at Costco yesterday doing a little shopping and out of curiosity checked out the X-11 The Plasma had the same problem as the ones sold at BB. The entire
picture had a green tint to it. I spent several minutes in the user menu to see if I could reduce the effect but nothing would fix it.

This effect was easy to see on light or white backgrounds The Phillips,Pioneer and Panasonic displaying the same signal had no problems.Looking at the internal's of the plasma through the back I saw a lot of LG stickers on parts. I don't know if all of them suffer from this or they had a bad production run but I would say buyer beware on the X-11.

ATB,
Ray

Hello All
I was at Costco yesterday doing a little shopping and out of curiosity checked out the X-11 The Plasma had the same problem as the ones sold at BB. The entire
picture had a green tint to it. I spent several minutes in the user menu to see if I could reduce the effect but nothing would fix it.

This effect was easy to see on light or white backgrounds The Phillips,Pioneer and Panasonic displaying the same signal had no problems.Looking at the internal's of the plasma through the back I saw a lot of LG stickers on parts. I don't know if all of them suffer from this or they had a bad production run but I would say buyer beware on the X-11.

ATB,
Ray

thanks for the heads up...i guess there goes the chance of me getting a x11 :eek:

Is the 42x3 available online. I'm thinking of purchasing a Plasma for my parents in Florida -- and they loved my Maxent. If I could get the same set for them, I would...

so there arent anymore x3s?? i have read a little here and there about this tv but how does it compare with the philips 42" ?? im concerned about the pq because i bought a 42" on black friday and ended up returning it because it was messed up and i thought a better deal would roll around come christmas time.

so there arent anymore x3s?? i have read a little here and there about this tv but how does it compare with the philips 42" ?? im concerned about the pq because i bought a 42" on black friday and ended up returning it because it was messed up and i thought a better deal would roll around come christmas time.

i too am in the same predicament about philips and maxent...there are no more x3s as far as i can see...i dont think im gonna jump on the x11...therefore, the only other one available from costco within my price range is the philips...i compared the x11 to the philips side by side and i couldnt tell apart the pq....but still i would rather have the x3 cuz of the panny parts :(

it seems that the x3 is available online...but there is a shipping charge of 200...i wonder if these also have the panny parts? any comments?

it seems that the x3 is available online...but there is a shipping charge of 200...i wonder if these also have the panny parts? any comments?

They took the X3 completely off the website about 2 weeks ago and now its back up. So I don't know if they will be offering them in stores again or just certain stores. A guy on here said his store recently restocked them. I miss my X3 cause now I have the X11, but if they don't get the X3 back in I may just go with the Philips. They just got it in at my warehouse, I haven't gotten a chance to see it with a signal yet as they just put the display model up there.

I am having Maxent send me the CD to do the firmaware update. What do I need to get to hook computer up to Maxent? Has anyone run into problems doing upgrade with the CD. I would have preferred to replace the chip but they said they would have to send tech out to do it. Any advice would be appreciated.

They took the X3 completely off the website about 2 weeks ago and now its back up. So I don't know if they will be offering them in stores again or just certain stores. A guy on here said his store recently restocked them. I miss my X3 cause now I have the X11, but if they don't get the X3 back in I may just go with the Philips. They just got it in at my warehouse, I haven't gotten a chance to see it with a signal yet as they just put the display model up there.

Costco website should provide the ability to check the stock of a given item in warehouses near us, similar to other retailers (like radio shack). That'd prove to be great help for us.

I checked two warehouses in SF Bay area (Fremont and Redwood city), none of them have it. It is too hard to make a call to each warehouse and check the stock.

I also noticed that the stock of plasmas as such is very limited. Looks like Panasonic EDTV 42 was there in both places, but no Phillips (42 model), they had vizio 50 and Pioneer models.

I wonder if there is something about Pioneer, it is there for a very long time. Usually costco models do not have long shelf time (mostly with electronics items)

I though of buying online, but then they charge 200 for s & h, which takes the cost to another level.

ignore, see it.

i totally agree sanjath about the inventory check system. my local costco has a wide selection but no x3...i wish i could check on nearby costcos...i tried calling but no one seems to pick up...EVER!

Okay so is there anything else that I need to be aware about the X11 before I buy it? I would like to pick one of these up in time for the holidays before they get sold out around my town. I just got back from BB (not CC) and they seem to have an X11 model underneath the LG 42" set and they look the same nearabout. I realize that ppl here said the BB models are the bad ones, but unfortunately my costcos are sold out of Maxent and Phillips and the X11 is the only thing I can afford.

This X11 at BB to me looked like the updated one as the picture had no green tint. I do remember the bad one and I'm 99% sure this wasn't. One thing I took note of was the use of DVI. I think the older X11 had DVI as well. That's a good thing for me since I plan to use my PC and Xbox 360.... hence DVI and RGB. I believe others have noted that by using component you are recieving the best quality hdtv, or at least that's what I gather. So I shouldn't miss too much with HDMI for what I want correct?

Final question.... resolution on this display is 1024x768. Will I be limited to this when I hook the PC up or can this go to 1280x1024? I thought I read somewhere that this display can do it but I'm not sure. It doesn't matter as long as I have a reliable 1:1 pixel map for my media center pc.

Based on answers to my questions I will decide to make the move since I already like what I saw in the store. I know you guys are by far more videophile-etique than I am, which is the reason I love this board.


PS- for the ppl who are choosing the philips over the new maxent....why? I'm just curious

thanks again for the help

kristopher, im leaning towards the philips over maxent b/c i have read plenty of good things about the philips from people and also b/c it has a built-in tuner....no one really has any solid opinions about the x11...i do not know the other answers to ur questions...however, if you do buy the x11, please do post a detailed review as this may actually sway me towards the maxent...btw, if i were you i would give costco preference over bb b/c of their awesome return policy...

Thanks TheeeGod. I may very well indeed go ahead and get the Maxent X11 at BB. They have a 30 day no questions asked return policy which I already confirmed about this item so...

When I get it home I'll calibrate it with Avia the best I can and see what happens. I have the Sony 34xbr960 boob tube (best crt IMO) in a bedroom to put side by side. I will post pics here of them together when everything is set up.

Take care

Thanks TheeeGod. I may very well indeed go ahead and get the Maxent X11 at BB. They have a 30 day no questions asked return policy which I already confirmed about this item so...

When I get it home I'll calibrate it with Avia the best I can and see what happens. I have the Sony 34xbr960 boob tube (best crt IMO) in a bedroom to put side by side. I will post pics here of them together when everything is set up.

Take care

cheers mate! i will be waiting anxiously for your report...hope all goes well :)

I walked in the local costco in Avon MA and they had one x3 on the floor. It happened to be a return (sealed box). I grabbed it and asked them to check other stores since I wanted to get two for gifts. They checked all stores in eastern mass and southern NH. No other ones available. It's marked for "deletion" or something like that implying it's discontinued.

I walked in the local costco in Avon MA and they had one x3 on the floor. It happened to be a return (sealed box). I grabbed it and asked them to check other stores since I wanted to get two for gifts. They checked all stores in eastern mass and southern NH. No other ones available. It's marked for "deletion" or something like that implying it's discontinued.
Heh I was at the Avon, MA Costco last night and bought an MX-32X3 sealed in the bosx a well. :D

I called the store around 2 PM and the the employee told me they only had a display unit available. She checked all stores in MA and found 2 others with the display model only. No new in stock.

I figured I would take a ride to Avon anyway and drove up there. I got stuck in a massive traffic jam on Rt. 24 South. It was about 4:45 by the time I got to the store. I couldn't find the display model. I did find a display of the MX-4211. I thought I was SOL. I asked any employee and he said he thought he aw one at the end of the aisle of printers. I walked over and saw a sealed Maxent box with "MX-42X3" printed on the outside. The employee told me thatI got lucky because someone had returned it a little while before. The display model was sold since the time I called. Wow.

I put it in my car and claimed it. Then the staff started getting paranoid at the register and at the membership desk because I had layed it flat on the cart. They had a little bit of a meeting at the register and I told the cashier it was the last one so there was no way I wasn't buying it. Then at the membership desk the manager helped me stand it upright on the cart and told me that I shouldn't plug it in the same night because I layed it down and I needed to allow the "gas" to settle inide the display. He said by laying it down I risked causing the display to leak. This sounded a bit like an urband legend to me. But the Costco staff was overly paranoid about this. It seemed like they were convinced that I had ruined the display already. lol

Anyhow, I got home and went out to dinner so it did sit it for a few hours. When I got home I set it up. It looks fantastic. I rented Final Fantasy from Netflix and watched it. What a display! I haven't even tweaked anything yet.

I did not have as much success with my Xbox hooked up with the Xbox High-Definition Pack. The Xbox Dashboard did not look 'Green" like it looked on my CRT TV. It looked like a "greyish green" When I played some Halo 2 in 480p, it didn't look very good. Any ideas?

has anyone tried to mail order a x-3 from costco recently and did actually receive the correct product?

has anyone tried to mail order a x-3 from costco recently and did actually receive the correct product?

I haven't. I am not gonna pay $200 extra dollars to wait 3 weeks to have it at my door. For $200 it should be there within a week, they should just offer it for free shipping for that price.

H

Anyhow, I got home and went out to dinner so it did sit it for a few hours. When I got home I set it up. It looks fantastic. I rented Final Fantasy from Netflix and watched it. What a display! I haven't even tweaked anything yet.

I did not have as much success with my Xbox hooked up with the Xbox High-Definition Pack. The Xbox Dashboard did not look 'Green" like it looked on my CRT TV. It looked like a "greyish green" When I played some Halo 2 in 480p, it didn't look very good. Any ideas?

Yeah I had the same problem, Its the compnent cables. reseat them and set your Xbox correctly you should be fine. I find Madden to be almost too sharp edged at 720. You may find the HDMI input to be more red then others but tweaking down th oolor setting should help that alot.

I ran the white screen inPC mode for 6 hours to burn in the pixels and have not had an issue with any pauses on DVD or even the DVD screen which I have left on for over 4 hours. So although I do not recommend you do this. It proved to me i did not have to fret burn in. (Perhaps the white burn sufficiently broke in the pixels)

Good luck. You have a nice TV there and peace of mind for long time.

Heh I was at the Avon, MA Costco last night and bought an MX-32X3 sealed in the bosx a well. :D

I called the store around 2 PM and the the employee told me they only had a display unit available. She checked all stores in MA and found 2 others with the display model only. No new in stock.

I figured I would take a ride to Avon anyway and drove up there. I got stuck in a massive traffic jam on Rt. 24 South. It was about 4:45 by the time I got to the store. I couldn't find the display model. I did find a display of the MX-4211. I thought I was SOL. I asked any employee and he said he thought he aw one at the end of the aisle of printers. I walked over and saw a sealed Maxent box with "MX-42X3" printed on the outside. The employee told me thatI got lucky because someone had returned it a little while before. The display model was sold since the time I called. Wow.

I put it in my car and claimed it. Then the staff started getting paranoid at the register and at the membership desk because I had layed it flat on the cart. They had a little bit of a meeting at the register and I told the cashier it was the last one so there was no way I wasn't buying it. Then at the membership desk the manager helped me stand it upright on the cart and told me that I shouldn't plug it in the same night because I layed it down and I needed to allow the "gas" to settle inide the display. He said by laying it down I risked causing the display to leak. This sounded a bit like an urband legend to me. But the Costco staff was overly paranoid about this. It seemed like they were convinced that I had ruined the display already. lol

Anyhow, I got home and went out to dinner so it did sit it for a few hours. When I got home I set it up. It looks fantastic. I rented Final Fantasy from Netflix and watched it. What a display! I haven't even tweaked anything yet.

I did not have as much success with my Xbox hooked up with the Xbox High-Definition Pack. The Xbox Dashboard did not look 'Green" like it looked on my CRT TV. It looked like a "greyish green" When I played some Halo 2 in 480p, it didn't look very good. Any ideas?

I definitely think this is an urban legend.
Enjoy.

OK I hooked up an old Sony DVD player I had laying completely idle and gave it a quick whirl through Avia through both component (480i) and composite, coming up with surprisingly moderately different settings, at least as far as tint was concerned (though keep in mind this could just be caused by differences in the DVD player's outputs). Also keep in mind that contrast seems to have a slight-to-moderate impact on all the other settings (except sharpness, which I keep at 1 regardless). Without further ado, here's what I came up with for composite and component 1 (480i) based on what is probably a relatively safe contrast of 40 (note that on my unit I wasn't actually seeing white crush problems until contrast was set above 80 but I don't want it anywhere up there for fear of burn-in):

Composite:

Contrast 40
Brightness 60
Color 33
Tint -2
Sharpness 1
Noise reduction Off
Color Temp Warm

Component:

Contrast 40
Brightness 59
Color 33
Tint +9
Noise reduction Off
Color Temp Warm

On both of the TV's inputs once I did the quick Avia calibration colors do subjectively seem about the same despite the big differences in the tint setting. The color decoder seems to be set pretty decently OOTB on this set (on the color decoder check blue of course is spot-on as is green, and red looks to be around 5% undersaturated), which is definitely a good thing if we can't figure out a way into a service menu on these. :)
So are these the ideal settings for this set?

The ideal settings are those which look ideal to you!

Exactly.. :mad: Why can't they have it on the floors? They know there is high demand since it was gone pretty last time. I was kidding myself that I would buy and return at local costco to get full refund ($$$+ shipping) back. Then Go back and buy it. ;) But I just don't have time to follow through. ;) .

I haven't. I am not gonna pay $200 extra dollars to wait 3 weeks to have it at my door. For $200 it should be there within a week, they should just offer it for free shipping for that price.

EDIT>>

mod note: no price talk, please. MSRP only, thanks.

I apologized, Mod. I thought that is MSRP price from Costco since that is regular price.. I won't mention the price at all again.
Thank you.
Exactly.. :mad: Why can't they have it on the floors? They know there is high demand since it was gone pretty last time. I was kidding myself that I would buy and return at local costco to get full refund ($$$+ shipping) back. Then Go back and buy it. ;) But I just don't have time to follow through. ;) .



EDIT>>

mod note: no price talk, please. MSRP only, thanks.

I apologized, Mod. I thought that is MSRP price from Costco since that is regular price.. I won't mention the price at all again.
Thank you.
Thank you for your support.:)

Product is in stock (I ordered one this am) from brightandsleek.
Free shipping, 3-5 days, price is at their web site.

I must be doing something wrong. My DVD player is connected to the Component 1 input and DVDs really look stunning. My Xbox (the original Xbox) is connected to the Component 2 input, via the OEM Microsoft High Def Pak. In the Xbox Dashboard I sent the Xbox to "Widescreen", and 480p=Yes and 720p =No. I set 1080i to "No" (It doesn't matter what I set it to as it doesn't help the image.

My Xbox image looks terrible . The greens look yellowish and the reds look yellowish, for example. The color is not vivid at all and their is a graininess to the image, especially in the Xbox Dashboard, which is mostly black and green. In fact, darker scenes in-game look pixelated and not very good, even in 720p mode, which the TV detects.

There also seems to be an odd distortion on the screen. It almost looks like the sort of distortion created when you have an unshielded speaker near a TV. In fact, in-game, when anyone is speaking and the sound is coming from the center speaker, the distortion on-screen appears to be synchronized with the voice of the person speaking. So clearly something in the audio is screwing with the visuals. I moved the center speaker away and cleared any excess wires from the Xbox and TV but still couldn't get it to stop the distortion. All my speakers are shielded anyway.

The MS Hi-Def Pak has the proprietary Xbox connector at one end and 5 plugs at the other end. Three of the plugs are for component (Red, Blue, Green), and Two are from Audio Left & Right (Red & White). The high def also has a plug for an optical cable that goes from the head of the proprietary end to your Dolby Digital receiver, which I have done. I reseated the plugs and i can't get the image any better.

I am thinking that perhaps I mistakingly put the Red Audio plug into the Red Component jack? I saw this troubleshooting tip while perusing the Cox HDTV Help section. I'll have to double check it when I get home. It could be the reason for the distortion on-screen coinciding with the audio.

Other than that, I don't know what it could be. Perhaps the High-Def Pak is defective? Or is there a particular setting in the TVs display settings I should be changing?

Product is in stock (I ordered one this am) from brightandsleek.
Free shipping, 3-5 days, price is at their web site.


That price is still quite a bit higher than CC's price. I think I'm just gonna go with the Philips for that price.

I am having Maxent send me the CD to do the firmaware update. What do I need to get to hook computer up to Maxent? Has anyone run into problems doing upgrade with the CD. I would have preferred to replace the chip but they said they would have to send tech out to do it. Any advice would be appreciated.
You will need a f/f RS232 cable - monoprice.com is a good source.

I did the CD upgrade on my set last week - On the first attempt the progress bar got to 51% and stopped dead. The cursor turned into an hourglass and my heart stopped beating.

I waited a few minutes and called Maxent. On my second try I reached Rick who claimed to be Jay's boss. I explained what was going on - he said I was hosed (don't even bother to try restarting the isploader, the set wouldn't respond) and should box up the set and send it back to CA. I asked what happened to in home service and was told they would not provide it for this problem.

While on hold for Rick's supervisor, we were mysteriously disconnected! I called again and - miracle of miracles - got through to Jay! I again explained the problem and he asked me to hold while he did some research.

While holding I restarted the program (without touching the set) and about the same time Jay got back on the line the program successfully completed the upgrade! With Jay still on the line, I turned the set on and all seemed OK. Whew!

Saw no great improvement in PQ, but the red push on HDMI was gone. The "HDM" commands now worked via RS232 but still no "Native (1:1)" from the "wide" button (owner's manual, pg. 31).

Also, 480i on HDMI input still won't work - after another reading of the spec's I'm not certain the 480i is supported on HDMI - can anyone confirm or deny this?

I can, however, confirm that that the upgrade does not alter the gain and bias settings.

Well I got my problem resolved. The red Audio and red Component cables are identical on the Xbix High Def Pak. I swapped them and all is good. Very good.

What does the 30 sec image shift do? How does it work? I don't even notice anything special happening on-screen every 30 seconds so I am not sure it is even working. Will it help me avoid burn-in, especially with my Xbox?

I can, however, confirm that that the upgrade does not alter the gain and bias settings.


I am going to pass on the upgrade and stick with the 615 firmware. I simply cannot imagine my PQ getting any better (I don't have a red or green push w/ HDMI) so I will sit tight. Anyone else happy with what they have and will pass on the CD upgrade?

Hello,
Did anybody buy the MX-42X3 from Costco in LA county or Orange County area recently? If yes, please let me know the store location. I am planning to buy one and trying to find out if any of the Costco in SoCal has it. I tried to call them up one by one but the wait time is really unbearable.
Thanks!
Dave

Hello,
Did anybody buy the MX-42X3 from Costco in LA county or Orange County area recently? If yes, please let me know the store location. I am planning to buy one and trying to find out if any of the Costco in SoCal has it. I tried to call them up one by one but the wait time is really unbearable.
Thanks!
Dave

Did you try to route your call to the membership desk? I did that when I was checking for my MX3 and I they picked up instantly and were willing to tell me what they had in stock. Even walked over to see if they had more than one!

OK. For some reason my remote stopped working completely. The red light on the top illuminates when I press a button but the TV doesn't respond. I removed and checked the batteries and they are in correctly. I don't find any mention of it in the Troubleshooting section of the manual or in the Menu settings. Any ideas on how I get this thing to work with the TV again? Strange...

Did you try to route your call to the membership desk? I did that when I was checking for my MX3 and I they picked up instantly and were willing to tell me what they had in stock. Even walked over to see if they had more than one!

What I did in Massachusetts is I went to one store in person and asked nicely. They went to the computer and looked up about 10 of them in about 30 seconds.

What I did in Massachusetts is I went to one store in person and asked nicely. They went to the computer and looked up about 10 of them in about 30 seconds.

My store has the best service. They just got a new Philips unit and only the display was up no boxes, no tags, nothing. They guy climbed up benind and on top of the display and got the number. He then looked in their computer and wrote down the price, item number, and told me that they have 15 units arriving on 12/13/05. I have always gotten great help/service at CC.

Upgraded my FW to 822 via the CD and HDMI red push is now corrected(well, barely noticeable). My friends came over and was amazed by the PQ of the maxent 42x3 for the price I paid but they can't find one in Costco now :D I do wished that it had two hdmi ports now that the red push is addressed.

NFL Football in HD is awesome...

I am going to pass on the upgrade and stick with the 615 firmware. I simply cannot imagine my PQ getting any better (I don't have a red or green push w/ HDMI) so I will sit tight. Anyone else happy with what they have and will pass on the CD upgrade?

I was quite happy with my v. 615 but I got the upgrade from one of the members from this board so I figured I do it. I noticed marginal improvement in red push although it was not a significant problem with my panel. One other strange improvment i noticed is before with v 615 I had my HD DVR converting all signal to 1080i as it looked better to me even on stations that were broadcasting in 720p. Now it looks better allowing the HD DVR to "pass through" the signal getting 720p stations in 720 and 1080i station in 1080. Not dramatic but better.

There seems to be some available MX 42X3 Maxent with Panasonic glass and electronics available. If you are on the market for a 42" plasma and no tuner and lack of some aspect ratio for components video do not deter you then this is possibly your best bet.

You have to thank Motegi who originally discover the Panasonic connection.

Northville Dave,

Wow, that was a close call. I also spoke to both Jay and Rick. I had much better luck with Jay who does what he says he would do. My gain and bias, as I posted before, did not change with the upgrade.

edv2122,

I do not know the reason why your PQ did not DRAMATICALLY improve. Mine did. Mayhaps, you already have a very good PQ, particularly Ten Midgets. My guess and this is purely a guess your sets have the image board version .3 the latest and as such, most if all the image improvements have been built-in. I am reasonably sure that my image board is version .2 or older and therefore the improvement is DRAMATIC!!!

In a lot of cases, HD and SD, my image PQ is as good as a Panasonic or Pioneer.

Ten Midgets, you are right in not fooling with the upgrade since none is necessary for you. There are risks involved, i.e. my chip replacement with the Maxent technician and Northville Dave near disaster upgrade.

;)

edv2122,

I do not know the reason why your PQ did not DRAMATICALLY improve. Mine did. Mayhaps, you already have a very good PQ, particularly Ten Midgets. My guess and this is purely a guess your sets have the image board version .3 the latest and as such, most if all the image improvements have been built-in. I am reasonably sure that my image board is version .2 or older and therefore the improvement is DRAMATIC!!!

In a lot of cases, HD and SD, my image PQ is as good as a Panasonic or Pioneer.

;)

I would second this comment. A lot of the false contouring that I was experiencing, both with SD and with HD (1080i signal from an Accurian STB tuner), has gone away after doing the 615 to 822 upgrade on my set. This has definitely improved my feelings about the Maxent. The picture over component still seems a bit noisy compared to HDMI, but you have to be pretty close to the screen to notice it, plus the component connection allows me to correct for overscan.

Pre-upgrade, I was really on the fence about this set, strongly considering returning it and getting an industrial Panny model, but the lower price and Costco's consumer protection are just about pulling me back off the fence to the Maxent side. There's something to be said for having all of these inputs (plus the speakers) for the future flexibility of use.

I think my final judgement on keeping this set will be another attempt to calibrate with DVE or the THX optimizer, plus some time evaluating the RGB performance (it was a bit fuzzy before the upgrade, and I haven't had a chance to re-evaluate it yet).

Did you try to route your call to the membership desk? I did that when I was checking for my MX3 and I they picked up instantly and were willing to tell me what they had in stock. Even walked over to see if they had more than one!

Thanks Ten Midgets. I tried your suggestion and finally got someone on the phone. They told me that the only store that still carried MX3 in SoCal was the costco in Irvine and it was a return (not a brand new one). The price is the same as the brand new one but I was kind of desperate and bought that one anyway.... (I really hope I made the right decision though, we just never know the real condition of returns). The cosmetics looked okay, no scratch or damage. When I turned it on last night, the pictures looked very good (DirecTV HD via hdmi) as well, although I saw a little bit of a green push. (I have not really played around with the color settings & stuffs ... I still need to do some search on this forum as far as how I can go to the service mode and adjust those R, G, B values).

Great information in this thread. Has anyone checked into the Maxent XM11 at Best Buy rumored to now be selling for a VERY low price after rebate (see FatWallet.com for details). This is the same model that Costco now carries and has plenty of stock available for the holiday rush.

Also I tried the THX optimizer this weekend and found that it produced dramatically different setting than the Avia disc suggested. I looked at the THX results, decided that I didn't agree with them and went back to my Avia settings. Anyone else have opinions on these two calibration methods? How does DVE fit w/ these?

Great information in this thread. Has anyone checked into the Maxent XM11 at Best Buy rumored to now be selling for a VERY low price after rebate (see FatWallet.com for details). This is the same model that Costco now carries and has plenty of stock available for the holiday rush.

Also I tried the THX optimizer this weekend and found that it produced dramatically different setting than the Avia disc suggested. I looked at the THX results, decided that I didn't agree with them and went back to my Avia settings. Anyone else have opinions on these two calibration methods? How does DVE fit w/ these?

Here is my review thread on the XM11 that I tuned using DVE. Take a look. How were your settings compared to mine?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=616409

Just got back from my local CostCo to see if they had a Philips unit. I look to my left and there was a 42X3 in the box that had been returned. It powers up, no burn in.

It is being held for me currently. Should I buy it or not??? What would you guys do???

Take it Vasichko. You have been searching for this set for quite some time without the shipping fee and there it is. I would try to get them to knock off 10% or something, but if the set looks perfect I would take it regardless. Think about the return policy they offer -- you have nothing to lose and you will have the set that will make you happy. You may not have another chance at this TV...

Take it Vasichko. You have been searching for this set for quite some time without the shipping fee and there it is. I would try to get them to knock off 10% or something, but if the set looks perfect I would take it regardless. Think about the return policy they offer -- you have nothing to lose and you will have the set that will make you happy. You may not have another chance at this TV...

Yeah, I was thinking that too. I only got to have my first one for a week. I think I'm gonna take it. Well at least I had fun tuning my XM11 with DVE and posting a review.

I haven't. I am not gonna pay $200 extra dollars to wait 3 weeks to have it at my door. For $200 it should be there within a week, they should just offer it for free shipping for that price.

Lots of wrong info here:

#1 - it's white glove shipping. They bring it into your house and take the packaging. They will also move your old TV to wherever. It's not left at your door.

#2 - the shipping time frame is largely based on the customer's availability.

#3 - If you decide to return the TV, the s/h is REFUNDABLE.

So really, it's worth a shot if you really wanting the x3. :cool:

Do you also pay tax on an online purchase? If not, you are really only paying an extra $50 (or less) for the shipping difference compared to the sales tax. Something to think about it you want a brand new set.

Yes, we need to pay tax as well.

Lots of wrong info here:

#1 - it's white glove shipping. They bring it into your house and take the packaging. They will also move your old TV to wherever. It's not left at your door.

#2 - the shipping time frame is largely based on the customer's availability.

#3 - If you decide to return the TV, the s/h is REFUNDABLE.

So really, it's worth a shot if you really wanting the x3. :cool:

My local CC has one right now. They are holding it for me till I can get a truck this evening. Im glad I didn't have to pay shipping.

Vasichko: Glad you can find a new one. Is the price much higher than what costco is selling?

Vasichko: Glad you can find a new one. Is the price much higher than what costco is selling?

I think by "CC" he means Costco, not Circuit City. That had me really confused as well, since "CC" is usually short for "Circuit City" around here.

Vasichko: Glad you can find a new one. Is the price much higher than what costco is selling?

Sorry for the mistake. I meant CostCo. It's great. The guy got it off the net and 2 days later decided he wanted to go bigger and got a 50" Pio. So its pretty much brand new. Plus they will offer a 10% discount since its open box.

Sorry for the mistake. I meant CostCo. It's great. The guy got it off the net and 2 days later decided he wanted to go bigger and got a 50" Pio. So its pretty much brand new. Plus they will offer a 10% discount since its open box.

Arrghh.. I got robbed. I bought an open box (return) X3 as well from Costco last night and did not get the 10% off. I guess I did not ask for it because I thought they did not do discount for open box like Frys...stupid me. Now that I have opened the box, I will be having a hard time to proof them that it was an Open box before (or do they have a record for it in their computer?)

Arrghh.. I got robbed. I bought an open box (return) X3 as well from Costco last night and did not get the 10% off. I guess I did not ask for it because I thought they did not do discount for open box like Frys...stupid me. Now that I have opened the box, I will be having a hard time to proof them that it was an Open box before (or do they have a record for it in their computer?)

I would double check. I think they would have record of the item being labeled as opened or returned. It would never hurt to check just in case.

That price is still quite a bit higher than CC's price. I think I'm just gonna go with the Philips for that price.

Your choice. When I figure no sales tax and delivery to the door it's looking pretty good to me.

OK, has anyone had any problems with your remote for this unit? Last night I could not get the remote to work. It was transmitting a signal because I "taught" my Sony Commander Universal remote some functions.

This morning, I picked up the remote and figured I'd try it. And it worked fine. :confused: Then at lunchtime I stopped home and picked up the remote and it wouldn't work again. :mad: I can't get the TV to power-on unless I press the button that is on the TV.

This is very frustrating. Why would a remote work intermittently? This really souring my purchase of this Maxent and customer support has yet to respond to my e-mail. :mad:

Wow what a great night. Returned my XM11 and got a 42X3 back. The guy who had it got it online and saw a 50" Pio and returned it after 2 days of use. The screen still had the sticker on it. No burn in at all, looks great, glad to have my X3 back again.

The best part is I went up to CostCo today and when I saw it I had them hold it. It happened to be the manager and he gave me an open box 10% discount. What a day.

Had a friend of mine come with me whom is in the neighborhood for buying a LCD or PDP. He saw how the return policy was no hassle and said he is getting his unit at CostCo. He was a little skeptical before tonight and was leaning towards BB. Now the price and service has turned him to the dark side.

Ok now to the point.

I have the 615 firmware. I know some guys have gone to the 622. What is the best way to get this firmware? What would you guys recommend?

OK, has anyone had any problems with your remote for this unit? Last night I could not get the remote to work. It was transmitting a signal because I "taught" my Sony Commander Universal remote some functions.

This morning, I picked up the remote and figured I'd try it. And it worked fine. :confused: Then at lunchtime I stopped home and picked up the remote and it wouldn't work again. :mad: I can't get the TV to power-on unless I press the button that is on the TV.

This is very frustrating. Why would a remote work intermittently? This really souring my purchase of this Maxent and customer support has yet to respond to my e-mail. :mad:

Did you check the batteries???

When I emailed Maxent they got back to me in about 5 days. Have you tried calling them?

Goto www.maxentusa.com

I have the 615 firmware. I know some guys have gone to the 622. What is the best way to get this firmware? What would you guys recommend?

Actually the firmware upgrades to 822 I believe, not 622.
I wouldn't upgrade unless you have a problem with the current firmware. If you call Maxent, tell them what problems you are having, if they decide it is indeed the firmware version that is the problem, they may send you the firmware CD. They will also require you to fax them the sales receipt, your info, the current firmware version, and serial #.
Again, there is a risk of killing your set when upgrading the firmware, so I wouldn't do it unless you have problems with the current firmware.

Actually the firmware upgrades to 822 I believe, not 622.
I wouldn't upgrade unless you have a problem with the current firmware. If you call Maxent, tell them what problems you are having, if they decide it is indeed the firmware version that is the problem, they may send you the firmware CD. They will also require you to fax them the sales receipt, your info, the current firmware version, and serial #.
Again, there is a risk of killing your set when upgrading the firmware, so I wouldn't do it unless you have problems with the current firmware.

So what does the firmware improve???

If you are not using HDMI, nothing really.

so the x3 has a panny display and the xm11 has an lg display??? whats wrong with an lg display, lg plasmas look really nice!

If you like what you see. Buy it. There is nothing "wrong" with LG. But most people have jumped on the Panasonic is best bandwagon. If I did not already have my Mx3 I would buy the LG model f it looked ok. IN fact if mine fails I will get the LG on exchange.

Don't buy hype. Buy with your eyes.

Did you check the batteries???

When I emailed Maxent they got back to me in about 5 days. Have you tried calling them?

Goto www.maxentusa.com
I installed the new batteries that came with the TV. I also tried another set of new batteries. That didn't help. Last night i was able to turn the TV off with the remote. This morning, I tried to turn the TV on and off with it and it wouldn't respond. I put the remote right in front of the IR sensor and it still wouldn't work.

I am going to have to call Maxent today because they never responded to my e-mail that I submitted through their website.

Either the remote is screwed up, my TV has a faulty sensor, or the firmware on my TV is screwed up. Luckily I have a Tivo to change channels but changing display settings, inputs, or poweing on and off are a chore.

If you are not using HDMI, nothing really.

I will be planning to use HDMI early next year. I may get a DVD player that up converts to HD or when the HD-DVDs come out.

So is it worth just fixing it now?

BigBrother - If you can pick up a Harmony 880 universal remote you will love it! I did (despite my frustration at the price) and would now not give it back for the world. BB is offering 10% coupons now so that can help. Just a suggestion to solve your remote problem. And in the meantime you can ship your original remote back to Maxent for service or replacement.

I will be planning to use HDMI early next year. I may get a DVD player that up converts to HD or when the HD-DVDs come out.

So is it worth just fixing it now?

I also have the 615 firmware and do not plan to upgrade it. My PQ is fantastic and I don't want to mess up a good thing. There is also some speculation on this thread that the 615 FW has the latest imaging board (.3 I believe)? My set was manufactured in August 05 and I think I must have the latest version because I don't want to change a thing! Only upgrade the firmware if you identify a green or red push onscreen or your picture flickers.

ps: I use HDMI.

I also have the 615 firmware and do not plan to upgrade it. My PQ is fantastic and I don't want to mess up a good thing. There is also some speculation on this thread that the 615 FW has the latest imaging board (.3 I believe)? My set was manufactured in August 05 and I think I must have the latest version because I don't want to change a thing! Only upgrade the firmware if you identify a green or red push onscreen or your picture flickers.

ps: I use HDMI.

Mine was made in Sept. 05. I haven't used HDMI yet so I won't know, I don't have anything in the house that needs HDMI right now.

Well then you have no need to upgrade the firmware...enjoy the set!

Question about the panel - how do we know it is Panasonic? I believe it is because we can see the Matsushita logo on the circuit board through the holes on back. But is that the only evidence we have on who manufactures the panel? Do the circuit boards & panels always come from the same manufacturer? Just curious...

Sorry for the stupid question - but how do you find out which version of firmware you have?

Question about the panel - how do we know it is Panasonic? I believe it is because we can see the Matsushita logo on the circuit board through the holes on back. But is that the only evidence we have on who manufactures the panel? Do the circuit boards & panels always come from the same manufacturer? Just curious...

Its is om the panel. The other wa to know is maxent has gone back to LG glass about the same time Panasoinic has a nation wide shortage of TVs.It seems Panasonic unestimated their branded sales and ran out of OEM glass. I would imagine the patents on the panel technology would have to include the circuitry to drive those panels.

Sorry for the stupid question - but how do you find out which version of firmware you have?

Under Info on your TV menu

Sorry for the stupid question - but how do you find out which version of firmware you have?

On the on-screen menu, go to "Info".

I was in COSTCO today and saw the Maxent XM11- I guess with the LG glass. It looked fine on HD. The question is: has anyone taken this one home yet and checked out the SD reception. I bought a Panasonic Th-42PM50U at COSTCO about a week ago. It is an EDTV. The HD is very good. The Maxent I saw might be 5% or so sharper on HD. However I am not that pleased with the SD on the Panny I bought. I am using S-Video for viewing SD. Is it possible that the Maxent XM11 now in my COSTCO will be better on SD (or are they all just so-so on SD)? Also, will it have the same firmware problems that the X3 has?

If you do not like the ED version of SDTV you will hate the HD version,

Thanks for your reply Kingfrog. I've heard that said- EDTV is better on SD but stores like CC, BB and COSTCO only let you see HD- no way to compare.
By the way I like your signature line. But do the ones with the most toys have more fun? Just kidding...

sculptor, i think vaschiko wrote a decent review about the x11 on another thread...i am still contemplating between the x11 vs the philips...i am so hoping that i get lucky like vaschiko...soon hopefully soon :)

I was in COSTCO today and saw the Maxent XM11- I guess with the LG glass. It looked fine on HD. The question is: has anyone taken this one home yet and checked out the SD reception. I bought a Panasonic Th-42PM50U at COSTCO about a week ago. It is an EDTV. The HD is very good. The Maxent I saw might be 5% or so sharper on HD. However I am not that pleased with the SD on the Panny I bought. I am using S-Video for viewing SD. Is it possible that the Maxent XM11 now in my COSTCO will be better on SD (or are they all just so-so on SD)? Also, will it have the same firmware problems that the X3 has?

Yeah, I did a review about a day before I took back my XM11. You should search for it on here, I also posted pics as well.

sculptor, i think vaschiko wrote a decent review about the x11 on another thread...i am still contemplating between the x11 vs the philips...i am so hoping that i get lucky like vaschiko...soon hopefully soon :)

You don't even know how lucky I am still feeling.

BigBrother - If you can pick up a Harmony 880 universal remote you will love it! I did (despite my frustration at the price) and would now not give it back for the world. BB is offering 10% coupons now so that can help. Just a suggestion to solve your remote problem. And in the meantime you can ship your original remote back to Maxent for service or replacement.

Ten Midgets -

I got the Harmony 659 from CostCo to use with this set and the rest of my components, and I have had problems with it and the Maxent. The TV almost never goes to the right input when I start up (I think that it's due to the TV's needing about a 7 second period to start up before being able to receive an input change command). Have you been able to solve this problem with your Harmony 880? I'd consider upgrading the remote if it dealt with this issue.

Its is om the panel. The other wa to know is maxent has gone back to LG glass about the same time Panasoinic has a nation wide shortage of TVs.It seems Panasonic unestimated their branded sales and ran out of OEM glass. I would imagine the patents on the panel technology would have to include the circuitry to drive those panels.

Sorry Kingfrog, but can you clarify your first sentence? I am looking for definitive proof on this if possible.

I got the Harmony 659 from CostCo to use with this set and the rest of my components, and I have had problems with it and the Maxent. The TV almost never goes to the right input when I start up (I think that it's due to the TV's needing about a 7 second period to start up before being able to receive an input change command).
I have the 659 and it works great. I just keep it pointed at the set for 3 seconds or so.

-Chris

Yeah no problems here either. I setup my inputs online and its worked great since! I went with the 880 because it has Tivo buttons and an aspect ratio switch. I'm not sure why your 659 would be having issues....

I am not sure what you consider definitive proof. (especially in an internet forum) But the label on the panel is proof enough for me.Then again it's only a "nice to know." I would have bought this Maxent if it had a Hasbro Panel. My eyes do the buying when it comes to TVs where you can actually see exactly what you are buying, especially when there is no time limit on returns. If mine failed ai would not hesitae to replace it with the MX11. IT does not look any better or worse to me.

I have the 659 and it works great. I just keep it pointed at the set for 3 seconds or so.

-Chris

I keep the thing pointed at the Maxent for a LONG time whenever I power up the system with one of the "activity buttons" on the remote. My problem is that whenever I shut off the TV after watching one input source (e.g. TiVo, which uses the AV1 input), then power up later on with an activity buton for a different input source (e.g. DVD player, which uses the HDMI input), all of the other components power up correctly and the TV comes on, but it's invariably still set to the wrong input (i.e. the last one that I was using). I have gone online and changed my remote's settings to try to compensate for this, but no dice.

Has anybody else had this partiular problem with a Harmony remote when powering up and switching inputs (in combination, not just switching inputs while the set's already been on for a while)?

So, you guys are talking like the 42X3 is superior to the MX11. If that's the case, why?

Secondly, I have been looking at the Philips 42 Ambilight model that Costco has. How does the picture measure up to either of these Maxents or are there other considerations (plus/minus) besides the obvious Ambilight feature in going with the more expensive Philips?

I got the Harmony 659 from CostCo to use with this set and the rest of my components, and I have had problems with it and the Maxent. The TV almost never goes to the right input when I start up (I think that it's due to the TV's needing about a 7 second period to start up before being able to receive an input change command). Have you been able to solve this problem with your Harmony 880? I'd consider upgrading the remote if it dealt with this issue.

I've got the 880 and had to tweak the settings to get around this Maxent input problem. Through the Harmony website where you program your remote, there is a place to adjust the delays. Basically, you tell the remote to delay any additional TV signals until the predetermined time after TV startup. I think I have mine set at something like 1100 ms. You have to keep the remote pointed at the TV until the delayed input changing signal is sent from the remote.

Or, on the 880, you can also press the "Help" button, and the first thing it does is resend the input signal to the TV, which also fixes the problem that one time only.

So, you guys are talking like the 42X3 is superior to the MX11. If that's the case, why?

Secondly, I have been looking at the Philips 42 Ambilight model that Costco has. How does the picture measure up to either of these Maxents or are there other considerations (plus/minus) besides the obvious Ambilight feature in going with the more expensive Philips?

The 42X3 is better because of improved picture quality (supposedly a Panasonic panel & definitely Panasonic circuits) and because it has an HDMI input. Not much difference other than that.

...My problem is that whenever I shut off the TV after watching one input source (e.g. TiVo, which uses the AV1 input), then power up later on with an activity buton for a different input source (e.g. DVD player, which uses the HDMI input), all of the other components power up correctly and the TV comes on, but it's invariably still set to the wrong input (i.e. the last one that I was using). I have gone online and changed my remote's settings to try to compensate for this, but no dice.


Is it possible to change the sequence order in the startup macro?
Send power on to TV
power up Receiver, etc,
change receiver to correct input
whatever else
then as last step, send correct TV input.

I had a similar issue with a Pronto remote a few years back... changing the order worked for me.

JayMan

Is it possible anyone go point me where to get the firmware with instructions??? Has anyone uploaded the data that Maxent sent them to a FTP or anything???

Please help...
I have a Maxent 42x3 hooked up with a LG LGDVB418 HDMI dvd player and seems that whenever I am watching a movie that has scenes in dark the screen shows shadows and "big" pixels...very ugly!
I am using a moster cable HDMI cable and The power source is been "filter" by another moster cable gadget...
Please...any sugestions?

It's macroblocking...Let me guess, your DVD player is upconverting to 1080i or 720p?

Try the same DVD through component and see if you see the same thing.

EDIT: You're not the only one having problems with the HDMI on this player:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=426637&page=4

Robert

Please help...
I have a Maxent 42x3 hooked up with a LG LGDVB418 HDMI dvd player and seems that whenever I am watching a movie that has scenes in dark the screen shows shadows and "big" pixels...very ugly!
I am using a moster cable HDMI cable and The power source is been "filter" by another moster cable gadget...
Please...any sugestions?

Its all the needless Mon$ter stuff. You obviously don't need it. :rolleyes:

It may not be the TV. Mine has no such problem except on some DVDs and Im pluged diredctly into the wall with the HDMI that came with an $80 Toshiba DVD player. It did appear in a copied version of Polar Express. Some irregular shading, but certainly not distractiing in the least. Sin City looked fine and that is a dark movie which will reveal all kinds of issues.

I heard there might be a couple of MX3's left at some costco's. If I were to find one, would it be the same one that would have the panasonic glass everyone is talking about or would it be something different?

As far as I know, all of the MX3's have Panasonic glass and electronics. If I'm wrong I'm sure somebody will correct me.

Sorry if this was posted before but I have spent an hour searching for it. What code works with the Tivo HD-250 (HD Tivo) I've tied the sampo codes listed but none work. Thanks.

Also, I read alot of threads talking about the coupon price at costco. I'm wondering how much was the lowest price they were selling it for and if there's some way to get this coupon. Being we can't post prices on this thread could someone please PM me this info. Thanks.

I think the coupon is long-since expired, it was just for a limited period.

As far as the Tivo goes, I spent a long time trying to find a code that works (and searching for the information on line too) and finally gave up, I don't believe that there is a code that works for the Maxent. I bought a Logitech Harmony H688 intelligent remote, which is very cool... it took a little getting used to, but now I don't miss my Tivo remote at all. I also found that it works a lot better than the Maxent-provided remote, which seemed to be really sensitive to being aimed exactly right.

As far as I know, all of the MX3's have Panasonic glass and electronics. If I'm wrong I'm sure somebody will correct me.

Dave, it is not true that we know for sure that it uses Panny electronics. In fact it's much more likely than not that it does NOT.

Another question. When I play movies that I compressed using dvd shrink. Like taking one of my movies that has 7-8 GB's and compressing it to 4 GB's. The resulting movie has faint black lines running across in a vertically slanted pattern. Sometimes when I play the original I can sometimes see these lines just not as frequent. Is this set defective or is this a common artifact?

Update-After watching more movies I notice this happens alot even on the originals. Also the lines come and go. This only is noticeable in dark scenes. Everytime the dvd's start the logo screens look all weird like the scaler can't lock in. When I hit display I read 480I but I have progressive out enabled. I think something is causing a conflict because the lines are there and then i will rewind and there not there. This is really frustrating because I don't know if it's the TV or DVD player. I don't notice this when I use HDMI and my HD Tivo source. The DVD player is a $300 panasonic w/ dcdi, I hope it's not the problem. Any thoughts?

Yet another update- I hooked up a toshiba dvd player and it detected progressive and I don't have those lines. Can'y believe my panasonic cp-72 doesn't work right. If the dvd player wasn't displaying progressive shouldn't the TV's scaler take over and I never should have seen those lines?

Dave, it is not true that we know for sure that it uses Panny electronics. In fact it's much more likely than not that it does NOT.

I think I have to disagree here. The inside is loaded with Matsushita parts.

I'm an idiot. I setup my dvd to enable progressive in the menu but forgot to press the progressive button on the front. Now I have a new issue although not as bad. When there is a screen that is all black I see faint somewhat bright wavy lines running horizontally. I only notice this when the screen is all black. Also when watching a really widescreen movie like 2:35:1 sometimes I see faint white flashes on the bottom and top black bars. Is this common?

Dave, it is not true that we know for sure that it uses Panny electronics. In fact it's much more likely than not that it does NOT.

Ahhh Yep. It certainly does. Panasonic circuitry fpr sure in the MX3

more proof is virtually the same Cnet reviews on the Panasonic as the Maxent.

I Fedex'd the remote mack to Maxent on Thursday. They say I should be mailed a replacement within a few days of them receiving it.

I have a couple quick questions:

1. Is the VGA out on the back of this TV the same as a VGA port on a PC? Can I use an RGB cable like I would use with a computer monitor?

2. My Cox DVR has a DVI port. I tried to plug a DVI-RGB adapter into the DVI port on the cable box but it's slighly different. This adapter came with an ATI x8oo Pro that i bought for my PC. I figured it would be the same type of DVI found on computers but the DVI on the cable box has an extra prong so the adapter won't fit in it.

The reason I tried this is because the Maxent doesn't have a DVI port, so I figured I'd try to convert the cable box DVI port to VGA. lol.. now I am confused.

The reason I tried this is because the Maxent doesn't have a DVI port, so I figured I'd try to convert the cable box DVI port to VGA. lol.. now I am confused.

Your cable box may not output the analog signal via the DVI port. You may want to try using a DVI to HDMI cable or adaptor, and connect the cable box's DVI output to the HDMI input on the Maxent.

How long did it take Maxent to get back to you guys regarding issues with your X3? They had me fax a copy of my receipt and info to them last Thursday. I'm just curious on the turn around time.

I just bit the bullet and paid shipping on my second 42x3. This set is a gift for my parents for xmas. Costco white glove takes 20 days, so maybe they'll have it by next Christmas! Too many good things about this set to risk going with the MX version.

Just curious if anyone else has ordered through Costco.com and how long it took to ship?

Now I have a new issue although not as bad. When there is a screen that is all black I see faint somewhat bright wavy lines running horizontally. I only notice this when the screen is all black. Also when watching a really widescreen movie like 2:35:1 sometimes I see faint white flashes on the bottom and top black bars. Is this common?


Can anyone help me on this issue? Is this normal?

Hey.... my brother in law notice the picture is really nosiey espcially up close in front of it.
is this nomral for plamsa. far away it looks great, get closer and the picture is kinda gainy. i hope i'm explaining this right. This is watch any show via cable with HDMI.
i notice the same thing with x360 playing games. thanks

i didnt buy the best cables....should i buy something more expensive (i brought from monoprice) and see if the signal improves?

I have an interesting issue with the audio - can anyone help?

I have my cable box connected to this tv via HDMI, so I use a seperate composite cable to connect the sound from the cable box to the appropriate composite connections on the TV. I am having trouble with volume levels - the output on one of the composite cables (that goes to the right speaker) seems to be zero. I have tried playing with the balance and had no luck. I know the speakers on the tv work fine because they work ok with other sources like DVD or Xbox.

Is this a manufacturing defect or is there something I could try to fix this?

If you're connected via HDMI, why do you need to connect composite cables?

Does anyone know if all firmware versions can be upgraded via serial cable to 0822? I have 0608 and have only heard of people with 0615 using the cd to upgrade to 0822. I have the upgrade files...just need to find out if this is something I can do.

Thanks

I just bit the bullet and paid shipping on my second 42x3. This set is a gift for my parents for xmas. Costco white glove takes 20 days, so maybe they'll have it by next Christmas! Too many good things about this set to risk going with the MX version.

Just curious if anyone else has ordered through Costco and how long it took to ship?
I ordered on 11/29/2005. Costco claims it shipped on 12/09/2005. I have yet to hear from the shipping company. I'm really frustrated. The anticipation is killing me, and I hoped to have it before christmas.

Anyone having problems with their HD Tivo through hdmi being recognized after switching inputs? If I switch to component and then back to hdmi sometimes I don't get a signal. This doesn't happen all the time though which is weird. I know these tivo units had issues but they have since been fixed.

Hi guys,

I have Directv HD tivo hooked to my X3's HDMI input. Every time I turn on my X3, the picture flickered for about 10 - 15 seconds. After that, the picture looks fine.

It was not a huge issue or anything, it is just kind of annoying. But then again I bought it open box from costco because I was late in a game when I bought this (Mid Dec -- right after costco not selling this set anymore). Wonder if I should just exchange this with the 42" Phillips.

Do any of you have a similar "flickering" issue like this with your X3?

Thanks,
~Dave

Well I just installed the 822 firmware and the PQ looks awsome. I can really tell a difference when viewing HD channels.

I keep the thing pointed at the Maxent for a LONG time whenever I power up the system with one of the "activity buttons" on the remote. My problem is that whenever I shut off the TV after watching one input source (e.g. TiVo, which uses the AV1 input), then power up later on with an activity buton for a different input source (e.g. DVD player, which uses the HDMI input), all of the other components power up correctly and the TV comes on, but it's invariably still set to the wrong input (i.e. the last one that I was using). I have gone online and changed my remote's settings to try to compensate for this, but no dice.

Has anybody else had this partiular problem with a Harmony remote when powering up and switching inputs (in combination, not just switching inputs while the set's already been on for a while)?

I'll bet that you haven't set the "delay" properly on the remote. If the remote sends a "power on" quickly followed by a "change input to blah" then the tv isn't powered up to the point where it is ready to take the "change input" request. This is REALLY a big deal on projectors. I have my projector set to about 15 seconds before it changes input. I forget what this parameter is called but it is there.

I'll bet that you haven't set the "delay" properly on the remote. If the remote sends a "power on" quickly followed by a "change input to blah" then the tv isn't powered up to the point where it is ready to take the "change input" request. This is REALLY a big deal on projectors. I have my projector set to about 15 seconds before it changes input. I forget what this parameter is called but it is there.

Yup, I found out about this on theer website. Problem fixed.

Anyone having problems with their HD Tivo through hdmi being recognized after switching inputs? If I switch to component and then back to hdmi sometimes I don't get a signal. This doesn't happen all the time though which is weird. I know these tivo units had issues but they have since been fixed.

Hi guys,

I have Directv HD tivo hooked to my X3's HDMI input. Every time I turn on my X3, the picture flickered for about 10 - 15 seconds. After that, the picture looks fine.

It was not a huge issue or anything, it is just kind of annoying. But then again I bought it open box from costco because I was late in a game when I bought this (Mid Dec -- right after costco not selling this set anymore). Wonder if I should just exchange this with the 42" Phillips.

Do any of you have a similar "flickering" issue like this with your X3?

Thanks,
~Dave


Guys: I had similar problems with switching to HDMI on a version 615 firmware set, and they went away after I upgraded the firmware to 822. Read back through this thread for more info.

Guys: I had similar problems with switching to HDMI on a version 615 firmware set, and they went away after I upgraded the firmware to 822. Read back through this thread for more info.


I just ordered the firmware cd through maxent. I got it for the red push problem but it would be nice if it fixed the hdmi issue. Anyone have any tips on the update...I'm kind of nervous.

BTW...reading through the posts it states the red push issue is on hdmi only. But I noticed it on component too. Anyone else see this too?

Would this serial cable work for the upgrade?


http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10212&cs_id=1021201&p_id=449&seq=1&format=2&style=


It says serial printer cable but would it still work?

Okay, how did you guys order the CD to upgrade the set? Maxent has yet to return any of my calls. Has anyone else had a problem with their customer service? What does it take to get them to return a call? I've tried to be nice on their answering machine (every time I call during business hours I only get the answering amchine) to no avail.

So, is this really the set to get...I mean, it's that good for the price? It really rivals Panasonic and Pioneer?

So, is this really the set to get...I mean, it's that good for the price?

I bought two. One for me (which I love) and one for my parents. IMHO, it's a great set and great value.

Okay, how did you guys order the CD to upgrade the set? Maxent has yet to return any of my calls. Has anyone else had a problem with their customer service? What does it take to get them to return a call? I've tried to be nice on their answering machine (every time I call during business hours I only get the answering amchine) to no avail.

I just called and asked for tech. support and the gentleman instructed me to fax some info along with the receipt and I got the CD with the new firmware. I didn't have any trouble at all with bad customer service.

I was experiencing some red-push on my picture and the sound did not work with HDMI. Now that I have the new firmware all of the problems are gone and it works great.

Has anyone noticed an off-black band of distortion that starts at the top of the screen and extends about 3 -4 inches down from the top edge and is only visible during really dark screens?

I notice this usually only when a DVD is starting up and they are showing the movie studio logo/into. It seems to go away after that. I've only noticed it in one other dark scene. I think it tends to show up when the entire screen is black and their is a bright object in the center of the screen, which would explain why it happens at the beginning of DVDs.

is this normal?

Has anyone noticed an off-black band of distortion that starts at the top of the screen and extends about 3 -4 inches down from the top edge and is only visible during really dark screens?

I notice this usually only when a DVD is starting up and they are showing the movie studio logo/into. It seems to go away after that. I've only noticed it in one other dark scene. I think it tends to show up when the entire screen is black and their is a bright object in the center of the screen, which would explain why it happens at the beginning of DVDs.

is this normal?

Yeah I noticed this as well. It almost seems as if it is rippling sometimes. Maybe the rippling is my eyes playing around with me. With the center logo I do see some bands, but in dark scenes of movies they are not there.

Anyone else notice this or experience this??? If it is normal, what causes it???

Hmm.. easy to get lots of posts when speculating on the TV but no posts when a problem may be cropping up!!

We are all busy watching TV :)

Bigbrother,

I have this same problem with flashes within the black bars when I play an 2:35:1 movie. I also get rippling on the all black screen when it starts. I have asked this question before but I never get any replies.

Anyone know how to proram or what the remote codes are for the Maxent with the 8300?
Just closed on the house and wall mounted the plasma. Saw HD on it for the first time. out side of some contouring that is different on every channel, it looks great.

Bigbrother,

I have this same problem with flashes within the black bars when I play an 2:35:1 movie. I also get rippling on the all black screen when it starts. I have asked this question before but I never get any replies.
The TV looks fantastic 99.9 percent of the time. The distortion isn't even there when watching dark scenes in movies of letterboxed movies. It only appears when first popping a DVD in the player. At first I thought it may have been my Toshiba DVD player, but I see others have noticed it as well.

HDTV looks phenomenal. I watched Monday Night Football in HDTV and it looked fantastic. I just hope the problem we are experiencing isn't an indication of a more serious problem looming down the road.

Anyone know how to proram or what the remote codes are for the Maxent with the 8300?
Just closed on the house and wall mounted the plasma. Saw HD on it for the first time. out side of some contouring that is different on every channel, it looks great.

I posted it earlier in this thread...

I'm going crazy. I've tried to get the lighter colored corner sticker adhesive off but it won't come out. I tried warming it up for close to an hout then wiping it with a 3M cloth with screen cleaner but it still won't come off. Has anyone else not been able to get it off. Also, can anyone else see the line when the plasma is on?

Xylene (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xylene)... dissolves all!

Bigbrother,

I have this same problem with flashes within the black bars when I play an 2:35:1 movie. I also get rippling on the all black screen when it starts. I have asked this question before but I never get any replies.

Ok good, glad I am not the only one with this problem..

Anyone else have to adjust their tint nearly all the way to the green side using SA 8300 DVR on component?

Just finished installing the Maxent in the new house and saw HD for the first time on it after a month. Wow. In any case Time Warner's DVR has extreme red push. All other inputs are fine. I use HDMI for the DVD and the other component for Xbox.

Did anybody who ordered from costco.com late Nov/ early Dec get their X3 yet? I ordered one on Dec 13 but the status still says "In Process". I tried to call their customer service but got on hold forever.

Has anyone been able to pick one of the X3s up at the local warehouse lately?

I saw two 42X3's at the Colchester, VT costco last week.

There are alot of MX3's left in the midwest.

Bigbrother,

I have this same problem with flashes within the black bars when I play an 2:35:1 movie. I also get rippling on the all black screen when it starts. I have asked this question before but I never get any replies.

I noticed this when I first got the set. It seemed like the black level was constantly adjusting itself (it would brighten on dark scenes and dim at bright scenes). After calibrating brightness & contrast it went away. I used the test pattern on Digital Video Essentials that displays black bars while flashing a white box on the screen. I believe this is supposed to test for this sort of artifact. I re-adjusted the brightness a little (I think I turned it down and left contrast the same) and the problem went away.

Guys: I had similar problems with switching to HDMI on a version 615 firmware set, and they went away after I upgraded the firmware to 822. Read back through this thread for more info.
`

Like several of you here, I too have that same HDMI problem. Distorted, flashing images with REDS. Is anyone willing to burn me a copy of the firmware upgrade and send it to me? Thanks, would really appreciate it!
I guess I'll have to go buy a RS232 cable.
I called Maxent USA and they told me I need my receipt, which I can't find anywhere.

I noticed this when I first got the set. It seemed like the black level was constantly adjusting itself (it would brighten on dark scenes and dim at bright scenes). After calibrating brightness & contrast it went away. I used the test pattern on Digital Video Essentials that displays black bars while flashing a white box on the screen. I believe this is supposed to test for this sort of artifact. I re-adjusted the brightness a little (I think I turned it down and left contrast the same) and the problem went away.

I was also thinking it was my settings. I am still in break-in so everything (contrast, color, brightness) is at 35 right now.

`

Like several of you here, I too have that same HDMI problem. Distorted, flashing images with REDS. Is anyone willing to burn me a copy of the firmware upgrade and send it to me? Thanks, would really appreciate it!
I guess I'll have to go buy a RS232 cable.
I called Maxent USA and they told me I need my receipt, which I can't find anywhere.

For one there is no way to get a hold of you. No private message, no email, etc.

You would risk your set rather than having CostCo pull the transaction number and get you a receipt? What would you do if your set didn't work properly after doing the 622 firmware?

For one there is no way to get a hold of you. No private message, no email, etc.

You would risk your set rather than having CostCo pull the transaction number and get you a receipt? What would you do if your set didn't work properly after doing the 622 firmware?

Good point. Thanks for your assistance. I went to Costco and they do not have an itemized transaction but they are willing to take it back for store credit. At this point, I might just do that. They have a 42 Phillips plasma that seems to have better specs and cost just about the same.
I might go that route just because it is a risk messing up the firmware.
Anyways, my email add is truthonly03@yahoo.com
shoot me an email and I'll get you my info.
Thanks again for your help.

Has anyone verified what the "rippling" is cause by when you have an image in the middle surrounded by darkness? I also noticed this when I turn off my cable box as well. Its hard to describe its like a waving or something. I will try to post pics later.

Im wondering if I should contact Maxent regarding this issue?

Just got confirmation that Costco.com has shipped my 42X3 to my parents in FL. No tracking info which is probably because it's a trucking company. Anyone know where Costco.com ships from?

My parents are going to be surprised to say the least... :D
and my father will have it in time for playoff football in HD.

Word to the wise...If you don't have any problems don't do the firmware upgrade. I followed instructions to the tee and it killed my set. Froze on 66%.

For one there is no way to get a hold of you. No private message, no email, etc.

You would risk your set rather than having CostCo pull the transaction number and get you a receipt? What would you do if your set didn't work properly after doing the 622 firmware?

Vasichko,
Thanks for emailing me the firmware upgrade. Strangely enough I took the MX 42X3 back to Costco today and they gave me a full refund. I think Costco is no longer carrying the MX 42X3 and now only carries the MX11 which is DVI and not HDMI. I wonder if this is due to complaints or just my local Costco.
In anycase, I'm picking up a Philips 42 7220 which they have (equivalent to the 7320). It's only about $200 more than the Maxent, and I think is better overall than the Maxent. Of course it sold out right as I got there. They're supposed to get another shipment before the new year. There's a $100 discount right now, so it's a decent deal. At this point, I might just go for an LCD TV and give up on plasmas. I do have a XGA DLP projector so this is actually my wife's TV.
Anyone with burn in experience? Which is worse LCD or plasmas?

Vasichko,
Thanks for emailing me the firmware upgrade. Strangely enough I took the MX 42X3 back to Costco today and they gave me a full refund. I think Costco is no longer carrying the MX 42X3 and now only carries the MX11 which is DVI and not HDMI. I wonder if this is due to complaints or just my local Costco.
In anycase, I'm picking up a Philips 42 7220 which they have (equivalent to the 7320). It's only about $200 more than the Maxent, and I think is better overall than the Maxent. Of course it sold out right as I got there. They're supposed to get another shipment before the new year. There's a $100 discount right now, so it's a decent deal. At this point, I might just go for an LCD TV and give up on plasmas. I do have a XGA DLP projector so this is actually my wife's TV.
Anyone with burn in experience? Which is worse LCD or plasmas?

The reason the 42X3 is discontinued is there is a known shortage of Panasonic PDPs and components. If Panny can not make them fast enough for their own sets, then obviously they will not sell them to Maxent.

Word to the wise...If you don't have any problems don't do the firmware upgrade. I followed instructions to the tee and it killed my set. Froze on 66%.

What did you do?

I did mine and had no problems at all? Did you check the connection of the RS232 on the set as well as the PC?

Also is the "Image Shift" option the pixel shifting feature that prevents burn in?

Im assuming if you set it for 10 seconds it shifts the image every 10 seconds?

Word to the wise...If you don't have any problems don't do the firmware upgrade. I followed instructions to the tee and it killed my set. Froze on 66%.

Mine froze at 51% but I restarted the update from the beginning (w/o turning off or otherwise messing with the 42X3) and it completed just fine.

I got my firmware update and installed it. Picture looked *slightly* better on component inputs. I hadn't used HDMI, so I picked up a reasonably priced cable online ($10) and tried attaching my Motorola DVR (62something) and the Accurian OTA HD tuner from Radio Shack.

I was startled to see how much better the color looked w/HDMI. And there definitely was more clarity, but also a much brighter picture overall.

I decided to compare the bias and gain settings. I have no idea what they were before the firmware upgrade, but heres what I found with the latest upgrade

.... HDM CP1 AV1
RGN 294 294 343
GGN 297 308 357
BGN 290 299 346
RBS 433 493 400
GBS 444 492 399
BBS 449 509 406

I noticed the component inputs (CP1 and CP2) were identical, as were the AV inputs (AV1 and AV2).

I felt the component never looked as "red" as the HDMI, so using tint made it either too red or too green. I tried setting the component values to the same values as the HDMI values. The picture did look better. However, when I switched inputs to compare to the HDMI, I lost the settings.

So the trick, I learned, is to use the SAV command (I used SAV:000) and the settings for that input will "stick". Indeed, by changing the settings for CP2 I had also changed them for CP1.

I don't know if these are the "right" settings, as it's really, really difficult to use this interface with something like AVIA. However, it looks so much better, I'm very, very happy.

Thought I'd pass this info on to anyone who is not afraid of using the serial interface. When I asked about how to set the bias/gain with the remote, Jay told me that a special service remote was needed. It would be nice to know those codes, so we could use AVIA, but for now, I'm much happier.

And to my eyes, using OTA HD and the Comcast/Motorola DVR box, there is a noticeable difference in detail between component and HDMI. I am so impressed, I am going to price HDMI switches. My Lexicon already does component switching, and it's obviously more convenient, but I want to explore this new way to spend more money. :rolleyes:

Word to the wise...If you don't have any problems don't do the firmware upgrade. I followed instructions to the tee and it killed my set. Froze on 66%.

I know what you mean... my firmware upgrade froze on me AT LEAST 20 times; not kidding. I just sat there patiently, attempting to breath slowly, and on the 21st try it made its way all to the 100% mark without freezing.

If you stick with it, I'd say you have a frustrating chance of pulling through with a successful firmware update.

Everything works fine now! Just got it mounted with a peerless sf660 and it looks great.

Also is the "Image Shift" option the pixel shifting feature that prevents burn in?

Im assuming if you set it for 10 seconds it shifts the image every 10 seconds?

that's my understanding of what it does.

I'm in the process of setting up an HTPC and I've had very little luck getting the display calibrated to settings I like. Is anyone who has calibrated the RGB to their satisfaction willing to share their settings (Contrast, Brightness, and Clock Phase). The only settings where I feel like I'm even close are:

Contrast: 85
Brightness: 50
Clock: 91

I'm worried because the Contrast and Brightness seem too high. I'm worried about whether I could run a burn in risk at those levels even with the image shift on. Any ideas? Am I just being paranoid?

I just bought the x3 set from my local costco. I joined this morning with the intention of buying a tv set. First I checked the one on the east side of cleveland, and they had the updated version that uses the LG glass. So later I tried the one on the west side of town, and I got the second to last one that they had in stock. I have to go back tomorrow to pick it up since I didn't have room for it in the car tonight.

Seems like its a pretty good set, PQ looked alright in the store, but their feed was jittery on all the tv's so it was hard to tell. In any case, I am just glad that its from costco, so if I have any problems I will just have to pick something else out.

Well I picked mine up today and managed to get it home safely. The tv really looks nice. I tried component and hdmi for my STB, but hdmi deffinitely looks better. I have the 615 firmware, so I do have the red push. For the time being its mostly being neutralized by using the "cool" color setting, but I will deffinitely try the firmware flash. (First I need to get ahold of a windows computer though, since my laptop and desktop are only linux now).

My only real complaint at this point is that I can't use the stretch modes on the component input. While my cable box will do this, its a pain. From what I can tell the SA8300 will only pass the "widescreen" 480P through HDMI, so I have to use a mode that upconverts everything to 1080i and puts pillars on SD content. But then I can use the STB's stretch or zoom options.

The problem there is it takes everything and mades it 1080i, even the 720P, which I want left as progressive for sports. So I am left with the auto hdmi mode that leaves HD alone, and upconverts SD content, but then I can only use zoom, not stretch. I know there are some other people on here using this TV with the SA8300 DVR, anybody else come up with a better work around? HD is great, and I can stretch that, but the SD stuff is bit of a pain.

One last thing, if watching with pillars on the sides, to avoid burn in, are medium gray bars the best? The STB puts them in, and I have a choice of black or medium or light gray. Light is annoying, but medium seems ok, will this be alright?

I just thought I'd update you guys with my firmware upgrade experience. I put off doing the upgrade for a while because I was very happy with the set once I calibrated it (see earlier posts). I thought for sure that I would have to recalibrate after flashing.
The upgrade went smoothly. Make sure you follow the steps exactly. Computer savvy folks (like me) are probably more likely to have problems if they try to expedite things :) After the upgrade I needed to adjust the brightness/ contrast and bump up the color slightly. The picture looks pretty much the same to me. The firmware upgrade does not change the RGB values so I guess that's why the colors stayed put and recalibrating was not necessary. This begs the question: So what did the firmware do? So far the only thing I have found is:
1. The built in picture modes (vivid,standard etc...) are now somewhat acceptable.
2.
3.

Please fill in the blanks with your findings as this might be helpful to others thinking about tweaking/flashing etc..

Happy New Year!
-Phil

So I was just looking at the tv again, and I noticed the same slight discoloration that at least one other person had noticed, from the damn sticker that was on the upper left hand corner of the glass.

I can't imagine that the glass is actually discolored since the sticker seemed to be a static cling type, not stuck on there with adhesive. My worry is that glass and plastics will sometimes react and chemicals will leech. If my tv was made in august and that sticker has been on there since there, I am concerned it may have permanently discolored the glass. I mean, it was REALLY REALLY stupid of maxent to put that promo sticker on all the tv's. Does their marketing department thing that every single one will be a display model? I really hope that somebody has figured out how to fix this discoloration.

Is there a chance that someting could go wrong during update that would make tv unusable? I am reluctant to do update, but I would like to improve hdmi picture. It isn't even close to being as good as component. I have the cd that Maxent sent me. Do I just hook up computer with rs232 cable and run program?

So I was just looking at the tv again, and I noticed the same slight discoloration that at least one other person had noticed, from the damn sticker that was on the upper left hand corner of the glass.

I can't imagine that the glass is actually discolored since the sticker seemed to be a static cling type, not stuck on there with adhesive. My worry is that glass and plastics will sometimes react and chemicals will leech. If my tv was made in august and that sticker has been on there since there, I am concerned it may have permanently discolored the glass. I mean, it was REALLY REALLY stupid of maxent to put that promo sticker on all the tv's. Does their marketing department thing that every single one will be a display model? I really hope that somebody has figured out how to fix this discoloration.

I think you mighty be overreacting about the sticker discoloration. I can only see it when its a sunny day and I look at the screen from a certain angle. It certainly doesn't affect the screen's performance any, and you cannot see any differences when you are watching the set.

I bought an MX3 along with a friend at the same time from Costco in Aug. 05. Both are Ver 050608. We are happy with performance. I'm using an LG LST-4200A into the HDMI input for OTA & QAM. My friend has a Comcast Motorola 6412 DVR. We were just discussing if we should update the S/W. Just so we have the latest version? But will we see any noticeable improvement vs. risk of creating a new problem? I have an Oppo 971H on order. If there are no issues interfacing it with the TV, then should probably leave well enough alone.


I just thought I'd update you guys with my firmware upgrade experience. I put off doing the upgrade for a while because I was very happy with the set once I calibrated it (see earlier posts). I thought for sure that I would have to recalibrate after flashing.
The upgrade went smoothly. Make sure you follow the steps exactly. Computer savvy folks (like me) are probably more likely to have problems if they try to expedite things :) After the upgrade I needed to adjust the brightness/ contrast and bump up the color slightly. The picture looks pretty much the same to me. The firmware upgrade does not change the RGB values so I guess that's why the colors stayed put and recalibrating was not necessary. This begs the question: So what did the firmware do? So far the only thing I have found is:
1. The built in picture modes (vivid,standard etc...) are now somewhat acceptable.
2.
3.

Please fill in the blanks with your findings as this might be helpful to others thinking about tweaking/flashing etc..

Happy New Year!
-Phil

I think you mighty be overreacting about the sticker discoloration. I can only see it when its a sunny day and I look at the screen from a certain angle. It certainly doesn't affect the screen's performance any, and you cannot see any differences when you are watching the set.

Agreed, once I sat back, and even looked closely while it was on I realized that you can't see it. None the less it pisses me off. If you bought a new car with a giant hunk of paint missing under the bumper, but that you couldn't see wouldn't that irk you a bit?

In any case, now I just need to update this firmware and I think the tv will be perfect. By the way, does anybody else notice with the image shift function is on? I thought it was a pixel orbiter kind of thing, but when I tried hooking my computer up I noticed it just shifted everything around by 1 pixel. Not that it really matters since I won't be using vga normally, and I have yet to see 1 iota of image retention let alone burn in, but I thought this was a bit odd.

The MX42X3 I ordered from costco's website was deliverd with firmware 822 and no sticker. I occasionally notice lots of colorbanding. Will calibrating with DVE or Avia reduce this?

After having this TV for a few months I can say it was worth the money. Yes there is some dark area contouring but I suspect a plasma at twice the cost would experience the same as one cannot tell if itis the TV or the source. Too many variables. All in all an EXCELLENT buying decision with ) buyer's remourse. You will find at the outset things you obsess over will disappear once you realize what a great TV it is for the money and how much you saved by buying at Costco and having the normally "limited and expensive" peace of mind EW many buy and never use.

Is it perfect? Nope. But cable TV isn't perfect, nor are DVDs and they do not deserve perfection quite yet.

.... as one cannot tell if itis the TV or the source. Too many variables....
well, I got rid of my MX3 several months ago and now I watch the same material on 52" Mitsu DLP.... I dont see any of that stuff that drove me crazy with the Maxent & Vizio Plasma sets.... But as long as your happy with your set, thats what matters most. For me, it just didnt work out....

well, I got rid of my MX3 several months ago and now I watch the same material on 52" Mitsu DLP.... I dont see any of that stuff that drove me crazy with the Maxent & Vizio Plasma sets.... But as long as your happy with your set, thats what matters most. For me, it just didnt work out....

I sat in front of a 60" Toshiba DLP on New Years Eve and I was VERY impressed! The set's picture looked nothing like what I saw in the stores and would have considered a TV like it had I known how quality a picture you can receive....

I bought an MX3 along with a friend at the same time from Costco in Aug. 05. Both are Ver 050608. We are happy with performance. I'm using an LG LST-4200A into the HDMI input for OTA & QAM. My friend has a Comcast Motorola 6412 DVR. We were just discussing if we should update the S/W. Just so we have the latest version? But will we see any noticeable improvement vs. risk of creating a new problem? I have an Oppo 971H on order. If there are no issues interfacing it with the TV, then should probably leave well enough alone.

I bought my 42x3 in August as well but it had the 615 firmware. I remember reading that someone toasted their set during the flash so the danger certainly exists. Make sure you have the correct cable. Make sure you can reliably connect to the set with Hyperterminal first. Shut off any screen savers ,anti-virus, active firewalls (ie zonealarm) or anything that may pop-up/on and interrupt the PC while its uploading the firmware. If you're using a laptop, plug it in the AC outlet! Is it worth upgrading? I can't say for sure. Hopefully more people will chime in.

-Phil

Has anyone experienced any issues with their HDMI inputs? I just had an HD Tivo replaced because the HDMI wasn't working (someone known issue on those units) and now this morning the same thing happened. I'm curious if it's the Maxent to blame?

Any input is appreciated.

I bought my 42x3 in August as well but it had the 615 firmware. I remember reading that someone toasted their set during the flash so the danger certainly exists. Make sure you have the correct cable. Make sure you can reliably connect to the set with Hyperterminal first. Shut off any screen savers ,anti-virus, active firewalls (ie zonealarm) or anything that may pop-up/on and interrupt the PC while its uploading the firmware. If you're using a laptop, plug it in the AC outlet! Is it worth upgrading? I can't say for sure. Hopefully more people will chime in.

-Phil

I also have the 0608 firmware and have yet to hear from anyone that has upgraded this firmware using the serial cable. Is it possible? I'm certainly not going to try it blind... :o

well, I got rid of my MX3 several months ago and now I watch the same material on 52" Mitsu DLP.... I dont see any of that stuff that drove me crazy with the Maxent & Vizio Plasma sets.... But as long as your happy with your set, thats what matters most. For me, it just didnt work out....

After I fried the maxent during the firmware upgrade, I got a vizio 50". Now There is a major buzzing problem. Isn't there a plasma without an issue? Maybe that's why panny's sell for $5000. BTW, Now that I saw a 50", I could never go back to a 42". 8 inches adds alot.

Well, after many other posts on which plasma to get and after reading hundreds of posts on this forum and the 50x3 forum, I decided to take the plunge and pick up the 42x3 today. Being almost midnight here on the east coast, the picture I have attached to this page is as far as I will get tonight. I need some sleep--especially since I live in Cincinnati but had to drive up to Indianapolis to find one of these sets.

i must say that today was the first time I saw this set up and running someplace. Both of the Costcos here in Cincinnati do not have them in stock. They are out and, like everyone else already know, they are now a deleted item in most stores' inventory. In other words, once they're gone, they're gone. So after several calls to other stores within a two hour or so drive, I was lucky enough to find an Indy store that had 7 of them. That was yesterday. They were down to 5 when I showed up tonight to get mine.

PQ at Costco looked really nice. I was pleasantly surprised. I will post more thoughts on the set over the next few days once I get my TWC HD DVR hooked up. But for now, I can at least say "I got it." That, and the set has a build date of July 2005 and was built in Taiwan. Let me know if there are any other things I could or should be looking for with this set........

-Scott

You're lucky you got one Scott. All the Costcos around me on Long Island, NY are even sold out of the MX11s now...nevermind the 42X3! i think we all feel fortunate that we were able to pick one up when we did. :D

Has anyone experienced any issues with their HDMI inputs? I just had an HD Tivo replaced because the HDMI wasn't working (someone known issue on those units) and now this morning the same thing happened. I'm curious if it's the Maxent to blame?

Any input is appreciated.

I did have a HDMI problem. But after I updated the firmware to 050822 HMDI has been trouble free.

;)

Has anyone noticed image retention on this set?I had a problem with the 50" Vizio when I was watching the great raid last night and there was a night scene with a bright lantern in it. When the shot moved the large ghost image stayed for close to a minute untill it was washed out. I never noticed this on the maxent. I'm not talking about burn in just faint white leftover images on black scenes. Has anyone noticed this on the maxent?

Has anyone noticed image retention on this set?I had a problem with the 50" Vizio when I was watching the great raid last night and there was a night scene with a bright lantern in it. When the shot moved the large ghost image stayed for close to a minute untill it was washed out. I never noticed this on the maxent. I'm not talking about burn in just faint white leftover images on black scenes. Has anyone noticed this on the maxent?

I have not noticed any image retention at all with this set. I was initially totally paranoid and didnt even want my fiancee to play her playstation2 on it. But after some use (and using reasonable settings, about 45 brightness, 60 contrast) I haven't noticed anything at all.

Maybe the little problems plasmas used to have are truly pretty much gone?

I have not noticed any image retention at all with this set. I was initially totally paranoid and didnt even want my fiancee to play her playstation2 on it. But after some use (and using reasonable settings, about 45 brightness, 60 contrast) I haven't noticed anything at all.

Maybe the little problems plasmas used to have are truly pretty much gone?

I guess the only real way to find out is to try it yourself. I will be doing that sometime between today and this Sunday. This is my first plasma TV, so I am sure that I will be needing some guidance and info on what to do or not do with this set.

I have talked with TWC already. I can stop by one of their local offices to swap out my current digital box for a HD box. I intend to do that Friday and have my spankin' new 42x3 up and running in HD in time for the Bengals/Steelers playoff game on Sunday. If the Bengals win, that'd be cool. But after $$$$ at Costco, I would rather have the TV be cool than the Bengals!! LOL!! ..........

I've done a lot of PC gaming on the 42x3. I have not seen any burn-in. I don't even use the image shift anymore. The little hicup that it gives was getting on my nerves. I see that chanc cured his HDMI connectivity problem with the 822 firmware. So the list of confirmed 822 firmware improvements so far are:

1. The built in picture modes (vivid,standard etc...) are now somewhat acceptable.
2. Improved HDMI connectivity
3. Helped the red push issue

3. Helped the red push issue. Although some see a difference and some don't. I have an August build which might have an updated board and I think the red push is all in my head. I think it's more of a source issue. I had the 50" vizio that hasn't reported any red push problems and it diplayed red push on the same source material as the maxent did.

3. Helped the red push issue. Although some see a difference and some don't. I have an August build which might have an updated board and I think the red push is all in my head. I think it's more of a source issue. I had the 50" vizio that hasn't reported any red push problems and it diplayed red push on the same source material as the maxent did.

My set was mildly mis-calibrated, some material looked good other stuff looked too red. Adjusting the tint helped but it was still off. I doubt the factory spends much time calibrating these sets. Have you tried adjusting the RGB controls?

Did you adjust the tint to green? How much? I'm not messing with a serial cable anymore to adjust rgb. I have Contrast at 60-Brightness 40- Color 45. How about you?

Contrast 67
Brightness 50
Color 23
Sharp 30
Tint 0
Temp Warm

This is on HDMI. If you are using the factory RGB settings the above might not be right for your set. If you have a serial cable why not give it a try again. I posted my new "calibrated" RGB settings a few pages back. If you are using HDMI give it a whirl. Just remember to copy the your original settings before making changes.

-Phil

Here are the HDMI Warm RGB numbers

RGN 220
GGN 222
BGN 185
RBS 455
GBS 467
BBS 474

Costco still is selling the X3 on their website -- but I have read everywhere that this is no longer to be made? Do they have any in stock or have they failed to update their website? Any info?

but I have read everywhere that this is no longer to be made? Do they have any in stock or have they failed to update their website? Any info

I ordered mine on Dec.19th. Still in the process of shipping.

Well, after many other posts on which plasma to get and after reading hundreds of posts on this forum and the 50x3 forum, I decided to take the plunge and pick up the 42x3 today. Being almost midnight here on the east coast, the picture I have attached to this page is as far as I will get tonight. I need some sleep--especially since I live in Cincinnati but had to drive up to Indianapolis to find one of these sets.

i must say that today was the first time I saw this set up and running someplace. Both of the Costcos here in Cincinnati do not have them in stock. They are out and, like everyone else already know, they are now a deleted item in most stores' inventory. In other words, once they're gone, they're gone. So after several calls to other stores within a two hour or so drive, I was lucky enough to find an Indy store that had 7 of them. That was yesterday. They were down to 5 when I showed up tonight to get mine.

PQ at Costco looked really nice. I was pleasantly surprised. I will post more thoughts on the set over the next few days once I get my TWC HD DVR hooked up. But for now, I can at least say "I got it." That, and the set has a build date of July 2005 and was built in Taiwan. Let me know if there are any other things I could or should be looking for with this set........

-Scott

Yup. Called today to check and see if they had one in stock. My buddy wants one bad and the item is deleted here as well. Damn I feel so lucky I found mine when I did.

Anyone notice that the price on this set just went down (trying to stay out of dangerous territory here), but they still list the model as the x3. Does costco have any sort of price protection, I read somewhere that it was 30 days. I just bought the tv on the 30th, could I go back and get the difference given back to me?

.....I just bought the tv on the 30th, could I go back and get the difference given back to me?
YUP, their policy is 30-days on price protection.... they owe you approximately $108.00 USD.... :D

Get cha money mayne!

YUP, their policy is 30-days on price protection.... they owe you approximately $108.00 USD.... :D

Get cha money mayne!


Is this really true?? I ask, because I too just noticed this on Friday. I called the Indianapolis store where I bought my 42x3 this past Tuesday and then I called the Cincinnati store where I signed up for membership. BOTH stores told me that online and in store purchases are two separate entities and that they will not price match to the web. They also said that since the general public is welcome to buy from the website (for a 5% premium) and that I would still need to pay for shipping even at the lower price on the net that for those reasons they cannot price match their in store pricing to online pricing.

Basically they're saying "Yeah it's $100 cheaper online, but the shipping is still $200. So in the end it's no better anyway." Kind of crappy if you ask me. After all, the money ALL still ends up in Costco's pockets!!! :(

BTW, it's 2:45am as I type this. I figured I'd log in before going to bed. I've spent the last 7 hours unpacking, setting up, hooking up, and playing with my new 42x3. I bought it Tuesday night but had no chance to get it going until today. I will post some more detailed initial thoughts of this set sometime over the next couple of days. But in a nutshell, all I can say is "Wow!" Well worth the searching, well worth the 50 pages of reading here, well worth 4 hours round trip to go buy one. I am so pumped about watching football tomorrow in all of its HD glory. :)

Well I have to run out there today, I guess I will see what happens. The price on the web deffinitely went down, so I guess I will have to see if the price in the store did. Between the x3 and the x11 there was already a price difference, so I am just wondering if they evened the prices out.

I ordered mine on Dec.19th. Still in the process of shipping.

You will probably get your X3 very soon. I ordered it Dec 15 and it was delivered right after the new year. Unfortunately I have to return it to the store because the foam liner insider the screen came loose! yuck! This was the 2nd X3 that I returned, the first one I bought open-box from the store and it had the flashing/ flickering issue when I turned it on, I think this can be fixed by upgrading the firmware but I did not know it at the time. I think I am just a very unlucky X3 owner....I do love the pic quality so much (for that kind of price) so I ordered one from costco.com today ... again! Hopefully I have a much better luck this time.

You will probably get your X3 very soon. I ordered it Dec 15 and it was delivered right after the new year.
I was able to get the tracking info from Costco. It's coming via HomeDirect from California. It wasn't loaded until the 28th and then sat in a truck for a few days. I'm guessing it will show up this week.

Hope you have better luck with your new X3.

With 1400 Posts someone must have tried this puppy with a tivo...

Tivo doesn't list Maxent and the long search doesn't seem to work either.
Anyone know what the remote code is?

For those that are still looking for a Maxent 42X3 I found another source which is Page computers plus shipping is much cheaper than Costco too. Happy hunting! CT :)

With 1400 Posts someone must have tried this puppy with a tivo...

Tivo doesn't list Maxent and the long search doesn't seem to work either.
Anyone know what the remote code is?

Sorry, I tried every code and the Tivo remote doesn't support the Maxent.

I solved the problem by buying a Harmony programmable remote (they have several models, the one I got is an H688) which will support all of your AV hardware and actually works better than the TV remote if you are controlling multiple things (TV, amplifier, Tivo, VCR, DVD player, etc.) I thought I would miss my Tivo remote, but after a week I never even thought about it again!

Sorry, I tried every code and the Tivo remote doesn't support the Maxent.

I solved the problem by buying a Harmony programmable remote (they have several models, the one I got is an H688) which will support all of your AV hardware and actually works better than the TV remote if you are controlling multiple things (TV, amplifier, Tivo, VCR, DVD player, etc.) I thought I would miss my Tivo remote, but after a week I never even thought about it again!

I've got an H688 (in another room) and it's a nice remote but it's not nearly as easy to use as a Tivo remote. Anyone else have another solution/workaround?

You will probably get your X3 very soon. I ordered it Dec 15 and it was delivered right after the new year. Unfortunately I have to return it to the store because the foam liner insider the screen came loose! yuck! This was the 2nd X3 that I returned, the first one I bought open-box from the store and it had the flashing/ flickering issue when I turned it on, I think this can be fixed by upgrading the firmware but I did not know it at the time. I think I am just a very unlucky X3 owner....I do love the pic quality so much (for that kind of price) so I ordered one from costco.com today ... again! Hopefully I have a much better luck this time.

What flickering are you speaking of? The blue screen when you first turn it on?

What flickering are you speaking of? The blue screen when you first turn it on?

It was blue, then it flashes some red bars with the picture in the background for about 1 minutes right after I turned it on. This happened everytime. I tried HDMI and then COmponents connections, both had the same results.

When watching a movie with alot of dark scenes I noticed a bar across the middle of the screen about 1" thick that stood out. I have not watched any programs with static images that could have caused any type of image retention. My contrast and brightness are at 45 or 35 while the color is at 25. I have noticed by adjust the contrast/brightness it goes away or it creates a rippling affect on the screen when it is all black and I have my cable box turned off. Could you check yours and see if it does this as well?

When watching a movie with alot of dark scenes I noticed a bar across the middle of the screen about 1" thick that stood out. I have not watched any programs with static images that could have caused any type of image retention. My contrast and brightness are at 45 or 35 while the color is at 25. I have noticed by adjust the contrast/brightness it goes away or it creates a rippling affect on the screen when it is all black and I have my cable box turned off. Could you check yours and see if it does this as well?

I have returned both of my defective X3s so I have no X3 right now but I will check what you were seeing once I receive my new X3 that I ordered from costco.com -- it will probably show up by the end of this month since I just ordered it on Sunday.

Anyone dared to attempt the firmware upgrade through the serial port on an older 0608 set yet??

OK. Here is a recap of my experience.

- I bought the Maxent X3 from Costco about 5 weeks ago.
- I set it it up and it looked fantastic after some minor tweaking
- I adjusted ALL my setting with the supplied Maxent remote
- The next day the remote stopped working consistently
- My universal remote doesn't work with the TV it either, even after learning
- For the next few days the remote worked intermittently but more often not
- 3 weeks ago I called Maxent and explained the problem
- I faxed them my receipt and shipped them my remote
- They shipped me a new remote and it still doesn't work :mad:

I love the TV, but I cannot accept paying all this money for a TV and not having remote functionality. It is a major pain to have to adjust the PQ settings and to change inputs. It's getting really frustrating.

I believe the TV is actually the problem. Why wouldn't the new remote work? Why would my Sony Commander universal remote be able to learn the signal from the Maxent remote? This means the remote is transmitting a signal, yet the TV is not responding to either remotes.

Do you think it could be a firmware problem? How likely is it that I have a faulty IR sensor? I need to call Maxent again but I have a feeling they will tell me to ship it to them, which I refuse to do because the shipping cost will be too costly. And I know all Costco stores in Massachusetts are out of stock of the X3s. So if I return it, I will not be able to get a replacement.

Does anyone here have any suggestions as to why my TV isn't responding to the remote and how can I fix it? Please... I am getting desperate here. :(

You have to try one of the Harmony remotes before you do anything. If it doesn't work with one of those, then its your TV because they are the best out there. I'm pretty sure if you pick one up you'll be watching fine in no time. And if not you just take it back for a refund. But try this first...I did and have been pleased ever since.

BiggBrother,

There is nothing worse than a remote control which does not work. Actually, it's something we all take for granted and then when we lose it, it then becomes apparent that's it's one of most of the most wanted function.

I doubt if a firmware upgrade will do anything for you. My older firmware never had any remote control problem and neither did the newer firmware. If indeed your Maxent IR sensor is the culprit, then Maxent probably can send a tech to replace the sensor board. It's under warranty so they should really fix it.

Returning the set to Maxent is a real stupid idea even if you still have the original box. But returning to where you bought it (Costco?) for a new set might be a better solution.

I hope you did all the trivial stuff like cleaning the the optical sensor on the remote, fresh batteries, clean the TV front etc...

Best of luck,

;)

Anyone dared to attempt the firmware upgrade through the serial port on an older 0608 set yet??

I never had the 0608 firmware so I do not know anything about it, except I read in this forum that it was a real improvement to PQ and connectivity when it was upgraded. Either it was through a chip or firmware I do not know. If you search this forum you will find the info.

In any case there is some risk with firmware upgrade, especially from my personal experience. See my previous posts.



;)

When watching a movie with alot of dark scenes I noticed a bar across the middle of the screen about 1" thick that stood out. I have not watched any programs with static images that could have caused any type of image retention. My contrast and brightness are at 45 or 35 while the color is at 25. I have noticed by adjust the contrast/brightness it goes away or it creates a rippling affect on the screen when it is all black and I have my cable box turned off. Could you check yours and see if it does this as well?

Hey, thanks for the serial cable tip. I appreciate it.

My settings for contrast and brightness are at 50, color 30. There is no bar in the middle or rippling effect that I can see when the cable box is turned off.

;)

Contrast 67
Brightness 50
Color 23
Sharp 30
Tint 0
Temp Warm

This is on HDMI. If you are using the factory RGB settings the above might not be right for your set. If you have a serial cable why not give it a try again. I posted my new "calibrated" RGB settings a few pages back. If you are using HDMI give it a whirl. Just remember to copy the your original settings before making changes.

-Phil

Here are the HDMI Warm RGB numbers

RGN 220
GGN 222
BGN 185
RBS 455
GBS 467
BBS 474


I noticed that you usually used the WARM setting for temperature as against the COOL settings that a few guys have recommended to reduce the red push. Did you use warm because you like the color? :rolleyes:

Which brings me to the next question, your RGB settings are for the WARM temp, would they be different say if your temp is COOL?

Did you also play with the BIAS settings?

Thanks,

;)

P.S. By the way my HDMI and Component RGB settings are quite different from yours. :rolleyes:

I never had the 0608 firmware so I do not know anything about it, except I read in this forum that it was a real improvement to PQ and connectivity when it was upgraded. Either it was through a chip or firmware I do not know. If you search this forum you will find the info.

In any case there is some risk with firmware upgrade, especially from my personal experience. See my previous posts.



;)


Believe it or not, I've read every post in this thread and while there is speculation about the issue, nobody states for sure whether the serial port upgrade will or will not work on a 0608 set. A few people with 0608 did get chip upgrades early on. I have the sofwtare and equipment to do it but I really don't want to render my X3 useless...(AKA I don't have the brass ones to try this...)

Believe it or not, I've read every post in this thread and while there is speculation about the issue, nobody states for sure whether the serial port upgrade will or will not work on a 0608 set. A few people with 0608 did get chip upgrades early on. I have the sofwtare and equipment to do it but I really don't want to render my X3 useless...(AKA I don't have the brass ones to try this...)

Call Maxent and ask to talk to JAY who is very knowledgeable. Be very careful with your serial laptop connection. Hyper Access free with Windows only supports COM 1-4.

Live a little out of the box !!! :) I know for fact that JAY will fix you up.

;)

Well, just called and was directed to voicemail. I left a message so we'll see. I also sent an email...

Well, after 4 months of tweeking and not being happy with the slight red push on the HDMI input, I gave up on the Maxent. Took it back to Costco and bought a Philips for just a bit more money. Well worth it! The Phillips 42PF7220A/37 has more features and a noticably better picture on both HD and SD content. I bought the Philips before I took back the Maxent so that I could compare using the exact same cable box setup. Since the Philips has a built in tuner and is cable card ready, I'm just waiting on comcast to bring me a card, then I can move the stb back to my rear projection tv. Those of you that bought the Maxent at Costco, stop in and take a look at the Philips. IMHO it's a better deal.....

Does anyone have thoughts on a stand for this set? My parents just received their set and need a good solid "silver" stand. I'd like to point them in the right direction. Anyone using stands from CC or BestBuy?

I noticed that you usually used the WARM setting for temperature as against the COOL settings that a few guys have recommended to reduce the red push. Did you use warm because you like the color? :rolleyes:

Which brings me to the next question, your RGB settings are for the WARM temp, would they be different say if your temp is COOL?

Did you also play with the BIAS settings?

Thanks,

;)

P.S. By the way my HDMI and Component RGB settings are quite different from yours. :rolleyes:

Each temp setting has its own set of RGB values. If you adjust the RGB (bias/gain) on Warm for example the other temp settings (Cool and Nat) remain unchanged. I choose to adjust Warm to 6500k which is an ISF standard for video.

whats up everyone, I am new... is there any welcoming forum?
http://urlcut.com/fatassn00bcockdotcom823.gif

Well, after 4 months of tweeking and not being happy with the slight red push on the HDMI input, I gave up on the Maxent. Took it back to Costco and bought a Philips for just a bit more money. Well worth it! The Phillips 42PF7220A/37 has more features and a noticably better picture on both HD and SD content. I bought the Philips before I took back the Maxent so that I could compare using the exact same cable box setup. Since the Philips has a built in tuner and is cable card ready, I'm just waiting on comcast to bring me a card, then I can move the stb back to my rear projection tv. Those of you that bought the Maxent at Costco, stop in and take a look at the Philips. IMHO it's a better deal.....

I wasn't all that impressed with the Philips unit. The only thing I liked was the dual HDMI but that was about it. I felt the picture was not as good as my X3 and I did not like the fact I did not have different settings for each individual input.

Yes, I bought a stand from "Target stores" in Nothern California, exact color as the monitor and able to withstand up to 135 lbs,<<<<35 1/2" wide by 19 1/2" deep>>>>. and 18" high for only $35.00. .

I wasn't all that impressed with the Philips unit. The only thing I liked was the dual HDMI but that was about it. I felt the picture was not as good as my X3 and I did not like the fact I did not have different settings for each individual input.

ditto on the Phillips. even the relativity of the Cnet review favored the Maxent. The deal breaker is dual HDMI and no independant color settings. I like component and feel there are less compatibility issues overall and as well the PQ is not a factor as splitting hairs comes to mind.

I'm hoping the Maxent stays in good stead otherwise I'll have to pony up for the 50" Vizio.

ditto on the Phillips. even the relativity of the Cnet review favored the Maxent. The deal breaker is dual HDMI and no independant color settings. I like component and feel there are less compatibility issues overall and as well the PQ is not a factor as splitting hairs comes to mind.

I'm hoping the Maxent stays in good stead otherwise I'll have to pony up for the 50" Vizio.

Yeah I wasn't impressed with CNet's review. They gave it some bad ratings on design and features. Forgranted it is missing some zoom features, but at least it has independent memory settings for the inputs, the Philips doesn't even have that and it got a better rating of features. Load of crap.

Ok here is what I found out. The reason mine was creating a rippling effect is because what I had it at apparently the unit tries to over compensate and over push in dark areas. When using DVE I was very close to the screen and I noticed that adjust the brightness by +1 cause noise in the blacks. So the rippling appears not to be an issue with my unit but the firmware trying to compensate. I did notice that when watching dark programming the blacks are not "floated" and no longer appear brighter.

Here is what I got using DVE and having the latest firmware using component and being in a pitch black room. Try it out and tell me what you guys think of these settings please.

Contrast: 45
Brightness: 19
Color: 25
Tint: 0
Sharpness: 10
Color Temp: Natural

What is DVE Vasichko? I have mine connected thru Component, but I have an HDMI cable sitting around waiting to be connected.

On another note, has anyone else noticed their screen will mysteriously just stop displaying the picture and go blank? The TV is on and the audio is still being processed through the receiver, but the screen is blank. I have to press the settings button to bring up the Menu in order to get the picture back.

This is very similar like what happens on your PC when Powersave mode comes on and the monitor turns off, yet the the PC is still on. However, it seems to happen about 5 minutes after I turn on the TV and start watching Digital Cable or change inputs. it doesn't happen all the time either, but seems to be happening more frequently.

I'm starting to think my unit is a lemon. First my remote stopped working, and no this problem. Can I return this to Costco even if I have used it and about it a month and a half ago? I really like the TV but it's just not working right.

What is DVE Vasichko? I have mine connected thru Component, but I have an HDMI cable sitting around waiting to be connected.

On another note, has anyone else noticed their screen will mysteriously just stop displaying the picture and go blank? The TV is on and the audio is still being processed through the receiver, but the screen is blank. I have to press the settings button to bring up the Menu in order to get the picture back.

This is very similar like what happens on your PC when Powersave mode comes on and the monitor turns off, yet the the PC is still on. However, it seems to happen about 5 minutes after I turn on the TV and start watching Digital Cable or change inputs. it doesn't happen all the time either, but seems to be happening more frequently.

I'm starting to think my unit is a lemon. First my remote stopped working, and no this problem. Can I return this to Costco even if I have used it and about it a month and a half ago? I really like the TV but it's just not working right.

I had this problem when I first purchased the set. Talked w/Jay in support, he sent me a firmware update. I have not seen this happen since. He sounded like he'd never heard of this happening, but including your post I've seen two others that have had the problem.

What is DVE Vasichko? I have mine connected thru Component, but I have an HDMI cable sitting around waiting to be connected.

On another note, has anyone else noticed their screen will mysteriously just stop displaying the picture and go blank? The TV is on and the audio is still being processed through the receiver, but the screen is blank. I have to press the settings button to bring up the Menu in order to get the picture back.

This is very similar like what happens on your PC when Powersave mode comes on and the monitor turns off, yet the the PC is still on. However, it seems to happen about 5 minutes after I turn on the TV and start watching Digital Cable or change inputs. it doesn't happen all the time either, but seems to be happening more frequently.

I'm starting to think my unit is a lemon. First my remote stopped working, and no this problem. Can I return this to Costco even if I have used it and about it a month and a half ago? I really like the TV but it's just not working right.

DVE is Digital Video Essentials. It is a dvd that is used to calibrating the picture.

OK. Maxent has indicated my display may have a faulty image board. This might explain the disappearing image and the lack of response to the remote, which is also handled by the image board, according to the Maxent serivce rep.

A service tech should contact me in 7-10 business days to come to my house and replace it.

Yes, absolutely you can still return it to Costco. I returned two X3 to costco because they all had defects. A new one will arrive tomorrow. Hope I dont have a problem with the new one.



What is DVE Vasichko? I have mine connected thru Component, but I have an HDMI cable sitting around waiting to be connected.

On another note, has anyone else noticed their screen will mysteriously just stop displaying the picture and go blank? The TV is on and the audio is still being processed through the receiver, but the screen is blank. I have to press the settings button to bring up the Menu in order to get the picture back.

This is very similar like what happens on your PC when Powersave mode comes on and the monitor turns off, yet the the PC is still on. However, it seems to happen about 5 minutes after I turn on the TV and start watching Digital Cable or change inputs. it doesn't happen all the time either, but seems to be happening more frequently.

I'm starting to think my unit is a lemon. First my remote stopped working, and no this problem. Can I return this to Costco even if I have used it and about it a month and a half ago? I really like the TV but it's just not working right.

Please take all CostCo inquiries, etc to the Master CostCo Thread!

Thanks.

Dave

Perhaps the service tech can update my firmware as well while he's out here. Do you think Maxent would approve of having him upgrade the firmware while he replaces the board?

Good new for those with 0608 looking to upgrade to the newest firmware. Sent Maxent an email and got a response. Here's what I wrote:

Comments:
I own an MX-42X3 with firware rev 0608. A friend bought the same set
that came with rev 0615. He was able to upgrade his firmware through
trhe serial port using software provided by Maxent. He is willing to
lend me the CD for my use but I would like to verifiy with Maxent that
rev 0608 can be upgraded with this CD. Can you let me know?

THANKS so much,
Heath Perry


Here's what they replied with:

Yes, the unit can be upgraded with the cd software.

Regent USA
Technical Support

Good new for those with 0608 looking to upgrade to the newest firmware. Sent Maxent an email and got a response. Here's what I wrote:

Comments:
I own an MX-42X3 with firware rev 0608. A friend bought the same set
that came with rev 0615. He was able to upgrade his firmware through
trhe serial port using software provided by Maxent. He is willing to
lend me the CD for my use but I would like to verifiy with Maxent that
rev 0608 can be upgraded with this CD. Can you let me know?

THANKS so much,
Heath Perry


Here's what they replied with:

Yes, the unit can be upgraded with the cd software.

Regent USA
Technical Support


Good luck, let's know how you make out

:D

I have a couple of really dumb questions.

On some shows, especially ones with dark scenes, there seems to be a graudation in the brightness and colour between the light areas and the dark areas. This sometimes results in some wierd effects making certain parts of images looking like a cartoon or causing a colour shift looking somewhat like a rainbow..

I've found turning the colour down to about 28 helps with this but I've seen the same effect on black and white source material.

Also no matter what level I have the colour or tint set to sometimes facial features have small patches of a reddish tint.

Is this normal for plasma displays? These effects seem especially pronounced in a direct side by side comparison with a RCA F38310 38" crt hdtv.

I'm using the component input, software rev. 615.

Thank You, Bill.

Thats "normal." I have the same issue. Its probably not the display because there is no consistancy to the problem. I have seen normal graduations of shading on some DVDs and terrible on others in darker scenes. As well certain broadcast cable channels are better then others on all types of lighting.

Some compress the signal too much I guess. Its called HD lite. It seems to be source dependant. I have seen this on other brands of TVs as well. After awhile you wont notice it unless you really get a terrible source.

You can adjust it out to some degree. But perfection is a long way of in thos technology. Everytime i see that issue I am glad I did not spend another thousand dollars for a name brand because the sources are so inconsistant.