Been playing with 1.13 over the weekend and noticed the following....

1. As stated before the remote response is definitely not as good as it was with 1.11. Went back to 1.11 just to check and there is a difference using both my Pronto and the original remote. In fact the original is so bad I thought that the IR lens had somehow switched back to the old one. With the Pronto its not so bad so maybe the multiple IR transmitters on the Pronto are compensating a little.


I too am experiencing poorer remote response since updating to 1.13, both with the supplied remote and my MX-3000. It's worse with the MX-3000 though.


3. I also recently upgraded my PS3 to firmware 1.80. I have noticed that PCM audio through the HDMI to the VP30 is blanking out for a few seconds at a time. DD and DTS output is fine but PCM seems to be having problems. Bypassed the VP30 and plugged HDMI straight into my plasma and the PCM audio was fine with no dropouts. Wierd one this as I am not sure its the PS3 or the VP30 that could be the culprit but it would appear to be another HDMI compatibility issue. BTW if anyone wants to test its blatant while playing Rampage. The 2 channel PCM sound comes and goes throughtout the game and this used to be fine before I upgraded my VP30 and PS3.


I currently run my PS3 HDMI out directly to my receiver, then to the VP30. I have to do it this way because running PS3 PCM audio via HDMI to the VP30 first and then HDMI out to receiver no longer works with 1.13. It's possible that this is a PS3 1.8 issue.

I'm happy to report the iar 1-4 presets are now working properly on my Pronto.

I also installed latest sw 1.13.

- I can also report that the remote response is really bad compared to the 1.11.

+ New gamma for each color is good (steps could be smaller)
+ Overscan show percentages and it is good, did the steps get smaller?
+ Grayed (not usable) menus are improvement I also like the display showing [] when item cannot be used.

I run the PS3 1.8 to the VP30 through bitstream then via toslink to my receiver and have no problems using 1.11. I tried switching to PCM and found that the center channel was missing. I think I had this same issue the first time I used my OPPO via HDMI audio and had to toggle the multi-channel setting to SPDIF. I assume there is something similar going on with the PS3's setting, but I'm definitely getting a signal.

A few days ago I did have an issue with no audio from the OPPO-970 via HDMI. A simple unplugging, and replugging of the VP30 fixed the issue. Besides that 1.11 seems stable, and was the final deciding factor for me to get the VP30. I have fun with mixing the Panorama with the overscan feature, but don't really need the bypass features of 1.12+ and am concerned about the PS3 1.8 issues listed above.

After using the VP30+ABT 102 for a couple of months I must admit that the flexibility is far more impressive than it's picture quality improvement or reliability. The XBR-1 RPTV's actually detect XGA signals as 16:9, so many games are stretched, as well as 4%+ overscanned. Since a good amount of my PC games are still XGA it made gaming frustrating. On the flip side I love using the overscan feature on the PS2 games so it fits the screen perfectly. I noticed that some PC shops are carrying DVDO products, which I think is an untapped market that can really utilize a good processor, especially considering a top of the line CPU or SLI dual video cards will cost almost as much as a VP30.

Well, I'm getting audio dropouts with 1.11b firmware. And audio drops quite frequently. Audio goes through coax and optical, not HDMI.

Well, I'm still getting these audio dropouts with 1.13 FW...

Well, I'm still getting these audio dropouts with 1.13 FW...

Maybe I'm being a bit thick here, but I never understood why anyone should want to use the VP30's audio capabilities.
Buying a VP30 is all about striving for better quality, right?
Then why not let your audio processor or receiver or preamp do the audio, and avoid an extra loop through the scaler?
I myself feed all video sources to the VP30, and all audio to my Linn Kisto processor.
Any good pr./rcvr. has lipsync compensation these days if that's the issue...
All the switching is done elegantly through a macro in my Pronto remote.
I even took care of the VP30 only switching on when required.
Works beautifully!

Maybe I'm being a bit thick here, but I never understood why anyone should want to use the VP30's audio capabilities.
Buying a VP30 is all about striving for better quality, right?
Then why not let your audio processor or receiver or preamp do the audio, and avoid an extra loop through the scaler?
I myself feed all video sources to the VP30, and all audio to my Linn Kisto processor.
Any good pr./rcvr. has lipsync compensation these days if that's the issue...
All the switching is done elegantly through a macro in my Pronto remote.
I even took care of the VP30 only switching on when required.
Works beautifully!

Well, yeah, but when you start having lip sync issues, you'll have to re-route your digital audio through the VP.

Well, yeah, but when you start having lip sync issues, you'll have to re-route your digital audio through the VP.

You missed the point that he was trying to make, in that most receivers and pre-pros also offer lip sync adjustments.
So if you already have it available in the receiver or the pre-pro that you have, then there is no need to also use it in a VP.

You missed the point that he was trying to make, in that most receivers and pre-pros also offer lip sync adjustments.
So if you already have it available in the receiver or the pre-pro that you have, then there is no need to also use it in a VP.

Yes, but the VP30 has adaptive lip sync. If I connect digital audio direct to my processor, I'll start noticing the delay in a few minutes of watching. Through the VP30, you never notice that.

Well, I'm still getting these audio dropouts with 1.13 FW...


me too. VP30 1.13, Oppo981, Lexicon MC12 V4.

Anyoing and there for ages...

Newb Question about scaling,

I have a vp-30 arriving this week:) I read an article on audioholics about the basics of scaling and how it works in general, and they say to feed your scaler with 480i for SDVD etc, but what about HD-DVD should I feed it 480i over hdmi or 720 or 1080I? I can feel it in my bones that this is a really stupid question, but i've been looking all over and haven't found an answer):

Thanks guys,
Tristan

You missed the point that he was trying to make, in that most receivers and pre-pros also offer lip sync adjustments.
So if you already have it available in the receiver or the pre-pro that you have, then there is no need to also use it in a VP.

Yes, but his point is wrong. If you want the receiver do handle the lip sync, you have to handle the video with it as well. You can't have one box handle video and another handle audio and believe you can get a lip sync. That has to be adapted to what is being done to the video signal. Maybe if you only watch one type of video signal, you can get away with a separat solution.

For those who are interested I wrote a small article about the VP30's new zoom method (see attachment). From the intro:

This is [...] about the zoom factor of DVDO's VP30 scaler. The zoom function was revamped considerable with beta firmware 1.12 (and up). That is to say: the zooming algorithm remains invisible (and is most likely unchanged). It is only that the meaning of the zoom factor is now defined precisely and its effect can therefore predicted

Maybe this is also relevant for the VP50. I did not yet found out how the overscan percentages work precisely. Suggestions welcome.

Maybe I'm being a bit thick here, but I never understood why anyone should want to use the VP30's audio capabilities.
Buying a VP30 is all about striving for better quality, right?
Then why not let your audio processor or receiver or preamp do the audio, and avoid an extra loop through the scaler?
I myself feed all video sources to the VP30, and all audio to my Linn Kisto processor.
Any good pr./rcvr. has lipsync compensation these days if that's the issue...
All the switching is done elegantly through a macro in my Pronto remote.
I even took care of the VP30 only switching on when required.
Works beautifully!

Also remember that some of us have old amps that dont have HDMI inputs for audio so need to use the VP30 for HDMI audio switching. In my case I was hoping that the VP30 would be a one box solution that would do adaptive delay based on video mode, add some more coax and optical inputs and also handle HDMI audio. If only it worked as I had hoped :-(

Got woken up early on Saterday by my son complaining that the PS3 didnt have any sounds. Convinced it was just the remote not being able to change the VP30 channel correctly I went downstairs to investigate.

Yep, no sound via HDMI - nothing. The VP30 info screen just shows unknown-PCM. I changed inputs from HDMI3 to 4 and checked that it was set to HDMI audio and still nothing. To check I plugged the hdmi from the PS3 straight into my TV and the sound returned. Back into the VP30 and nothing.

So with the passthrough corrupting my display, very poor remote response and now this I decided back to 1.11. Flashed the VP and rebooted. Sound back and remote working like it should. I set up multiple profiles to mimick passthrough so I am good to go again and my son is happy.

I think 1.13 still has a long way to go :-(

I've had the HDMI sound stop working on me before and usually just pulling the power on the VP30 will reset it back to working.

For those who are interested I wrote a small article about the VP30's new zoom method (see attachment). From the intro:


I couldn't get the link to work. It opened up but the window was blank.

I've had the HDMI sound stop working on me before and usually just pulling the power on the VP30 will reset it back to working.

Yeah I tried that. Even tried a full system default settings on the PS3 with no result. The only thing I didnt do was a factory reset on the VP30 but since it magically started working in 1.11 I dont think that would have helped either. Weird one.

Tristan, feed it 1080i. True 1080 is better than scaled 1080 anyday. The recommendation is for people with upconverting standard DVD players, so you let the vp30 upscale instead of the dvd player. HD DVD doesn't need to upscale, just send it 1080i. If you play standard DVD's in the HD DVD player, there might be some arguement for switching the output, but the current HD DVD players are awesome upconverters, so no need to think about it.
Warren.

Thanks Warren!

Tristan

Didn't know which forum to put this in, but this one came up frequently. I recently ran a news item at my HT publication AUDIOPHILE AUDITION about the v1.3 HDMI cables which their news release said will compensate automatically for lip-sync.

My question is how is that possible just with the new HDMI cable if the source or display doesn't have the proper circuitry to automatically delay the sound to match the picture? I am currently reviewing the Primare delay box with my Samsung DLP, and it appears it's really needed! Will the new HDMI cables make such boxes superfluous?

how is that possible just with the new HDMI cable if the source or display doesn't have the proper circuitry to automatically delay the sound to match the picture?

It's not, and has nothing to do with the cable. Both devices need to be 1.3 and support these features.

For those who are interested I wrote a small article about the VP30's new zoom method (see attachment). From the intro:

This is [...] about the zoom factor of DVDO's VP30 scaler. The zoom function was revamped considerable with beta firmware 1.12 (and up). That is to say: the zooming algorithm remains invisible (and is most likely unchanged). It is only that the meaning of the zoom factor is now defined precisely and its effect can therefore predicted

Maybe this is also relevant for the VP50. I did not yet found out how the overscan percentages work precisely. Suggestions welcome.

Hartelijk bedankt & thanks to Slonk-
Good article!
I've printed it and added it to my VP30 manual.

Looking for some advice on my VP30. I've had it for about 15 months now and it does have the ABT102 card in it. I went to fire up my theater last night and I have no video output from the VP. I changed sources and could get audio from both the DVD player and the cable box. If I moved the cable from the VP to the source direct I could get a picture. I tried a factory reset and did a firmware upgrade to 1.13 as a last resort. There are no error messages on the LCD of the VP to give me any clues.

Why would it receive and process audio but not video? My guess is the warranty on these is likely 12 months so I'm SOL there as it's been 15 months or so. Should I try pulling the ABT102 or am I just grasping at straws?

Jeff

Yes, try pushing the ABT102 card down firmly.

Looking for some advice on my VP30. I've had it for about 15 months now and it does have the ABT102 card in it. I went to fire up my theater last night and I have no video output from the VP. I changed sources and could get audio from both the DVD player and the cable box. If I moved the cable from the VP to the source direct I could get a picture. I tried a factory reset and did a firmware upgrade to 1.13 as a last resort. There are no error messages on the LCD of the VP to give me any clues.
Jeff

Did you get the VP30 up and running?

Did you get the VP30 up and running?

No luck. I pulled the 102 card and tried powering up and still had no video. Reinserted the card and tested once more. As a final test I pulled it from the rack and attached it to a 42" LCD in the bedroom just to have a different display and different cables. After all that I still had no picture. Unbelievable as I just purchased it on 4/18/06 so it's about 13 months old considering the shipping time etc. I'll see how friendly DVDO is with their warranty.

Jeff

No luck. I pulled the 102 card and tried powering up and still had no video. Reinserted the card and tested once more. As a final test I pulled it from the rack and attached it to a 42" LCD in the bedroom just to have a different display and different cables. After all that I still had no picture. Unbelievable as I just purchased it on 4/18/06 so it's about 13 months old considering the shipping time etc. I'll see how friendly DVDO is with their warranty.

Jeff

That's frustrating for sure. Have you tried sending 720p or 1080i to the VP30 also?

That's frustrating for sure. Have you tried sending 720p or 1080i to the VP30 also?

No...I gave up on input sources and tried getting the on screen menu to display and it would not. I did try adjusting the output resolution.

No...I gave up on input sources and tried getting the on screen menu to display and it would not. I did try adjusting the output resolution.

Is the issue only on the HDMI output?

Is the issue only on the HDMI output?

I don't use any other type of output other then HDMI. I can say multiple input types were working as I have Component, S-Video, and HDMI. When selecting any of the sources I would get the blue LED on the VP indicating a good source.

I don't use any other type of output other then HDMI. I can say multiple input types were working as I have Component, S-Video, and HDMI. When selecting any of the sources I would get the blue LED on the VP indicating a good source.

It may just be the HDMI output driver that's dead, last chip on the right of the board if I remember right. Not sure if DVDO will do chip level repairs but if they do it should be quick and cheap(ish) to replace it... otherwise it's a new board.

Do you get audio out of the HDMI?

It may just be the HDMI output driver that's dead, last chip on the right of the board if I remember right. Not sure if DVDO will do chip level repairs but if they do it should be quick and cheap(ish) to replace it... otherwise it's a new board.

Do you get audio out of the HDMI?

Your probably right it's just the HDMI out. Waiting to hear back from DVDO on what they are going to do for me, if anything. I don't use HDMI audio out as my receiver doesn't support it, and the HDMI is running to a projector.

Wondering if anyone can help. I've had my Vp30 just over a year now, i've only just connected up a piece of equipment to the 4th HDMI input. Something seems to be very wrong with it.
Basically it shows the source signal but the picture is either all red or all purple depending on different devices i've tested out. no other colour is visable, just red or purple. I've tried different cables and souces, but no joy.
I'm a bit stumped as to whats going on? Any ideas?
Thanks.

Wondering if anyone can help. I've had my Vp30 just over a year now, i've only just connected up a piece of equipment to the 4th HDMI input. Something seems to be very wrong with it.
Basically it shows the source signal but the picture is either all red or all purple depending on different devices i've tested out. no other colour is visable, just red or purple. I've tried different cables and souces, but no joy.
I'm a bit stumped as to whats going on? Any ideas?
Thanks.
Sounds odd. :confused:

Input 3 & 4 share the same input chip so failures should be consistent between them, it could be the actual socket. Try shining a nice bright torch into the sockets and see if you can spot anything odd about the pins in 4 compared to the others. One might be bent, if so you could carefully bend it back to normal.

If you've never used it there may be a fault inside where it's fixed to the main board. :(

Hello
Do you think that the VP30 will leave me a very beautiful picture on a BARCO G808 by the RGBHV hold?

Do I want to come out of the 1400*788p on my G808 barco by the RGBHV hold of the VP30, is this that I would be able to?

Of what I am going to win in quality by report has what I see at the moment on my barco that is of the 576i.

Thank you

Sounds odd. :confused:

Input 3 & 4 share the same input chip so failures should be consistent between them, it could be the actual socket. Try shining a nice bright torch into the sockets and see if you can spot anything odd about the pins in 4 compared to the others. One might be bent, if so you could carefully bend it back to normal.

If you've never used it there may be a fault inside where it's fixed to the main board. :(

Thanks.
That is weird if 3-4 use the same chip, i will try and look at the input like you say.

Hi,

I noticed that I have a lot of judder when playing ts-1080i-files with 29.97 hz and scaling it to 1080p48 (crt!)

is there anything that can be done here?

roland

Until now I've been okay with my Comcast (which I rarely used) signal being piped directly into my SXRD XBR1 60" and Toslink running from the television to receiver. My roommate decided to get HBO and a digital package, so I thought it would be a great excuse to get a cable box, complete with an HD DVR, On Demand and outputs that I can feed to the VP30 to help out with those awful 480i channels.

Since doing this a couple weeks ago I have had regular handshaking problems. The green screen, and audio loss via HDMI seem to occur almost daily when flipping channels on the set. Is this an issue inherent to cable signals where the VP30 needs to resync every time the channel is changed, or is this something specific to the Comcast box. I don't seem to have this problem when switching DVDs on the DVD player (had no audio occasionally on startup/switching devices), switching modes (XGA, VGA, 1080) on the PC, or playing downloads on the PS3. Is it that I'm just noticing it more since there is more resyncing involved when I'm flipping through dozens of channels or does Comcast have more handshaking issues?

I also noticed a number of audio dropouts which alarmed me when watching through the Comcast box. I hit the replay button to realize that those dropout are all part of the source, not the VP30. These are annoying, and can now really sympathize for those out there who have been living with dropouts introduced by the VP30. I agree with all those on this forums who gripe about Comcast.

My other question about cable television is why do older NTSC source shows look clearer on the HD feed compared to the VP30 upscaling the 480i channels? Do the studios have more powerful video processors doing the upscaling compared to the DVDO? Is the 480i signal more compressed than the 1080i feed? Do the studios use a non-real time scaler to do a better job than one of these few frame lag processor? The clarity that the VP30 offers over my televisions internal scaler seems smaller compared to the difference between the stations upscaling in there 480i and 1080i feeds. The 480i broadcasts take so little space on the DVR, but the 1080i broadcasted upconversions look better.

Set top boxes are notoriously bad when it comes to HDMI handshaking with devices such as receivers and video processors. I have a SA8300 from Comcast and opted to set it up via component and optical rather than HDMI to avoid the poor HDMI implementation in the STB.

It's probably safe to assume that the upconversion at the studios is much better than what's available in the VP30. They are most likely also working with a full bandwidth source signal, rather than the compressed signal that the VP30 would be processing and upscaling.

Bump?

no one?


Hi,

I noticed that I have a lot of judder when playing ts-1080i-files with 29.97 hz and scaling it to 1080p48 (crt!)

is there anything that can be done here?

roland

...Try shining a nice bright torch into the sockets ...


Unless you are from the States, then use a FLASH LIGHT, NOT a torch!!! :)

How's the post-1.13 software progressing?

Personally, I'm still happy at 1.11 since it fixed absolutely every single audio dropout I was having, but I was just curious...

-John

How's the post-1.13 software progressing?

Personally, I'm still happy at 1.11 since it fixed absolutely every single audio dropout I was having, but I was just curious...

-John

Agreed, but the software updates are welcome and reassuring. I was very concered there for a while that support was going to be dropped when the VP-50.

How's the post-1.13 software progressing?

Personally, I'm still happy at 1.11 since it fixed absolutely every single audio dropout I was having, but I was just curious...

-John

Well, you got lucky. I had audio drops with 1.11 and 1.13, so reverted back to 1.07. Still, I notice audio drops, which I hadn't noticed before upgrading to 1.11. But these are much less frequent with 1.07.

Anyway, I know that DVDO have just moved to a new location, so I guess further developments will be available shortly...

Hopfully someone can help. I've just got a tosh HD-XE1 hddvd player, it can output upto 1080p, i've got a panny 50PX70 pdp, which can accept 1080p. I've updated to the beta 1.13 firmware and have the passthrough mode. It works fine if i passthrough 1080i so far. Now when i set the hddvd to upto 1080p and try and passthrough on vp30 it only outputs 1080i, but if i run the hddvd direct to the tv it outputs 1080p. Hopfully this makes sense?? Cos i'm confused. I've tried different hdmi cables, but makes no difference. Any ideas welcome. Thanks.

Hopfully someone can help. I've just got a tosh HD-XE1 hddvd player, it can output upto 1080p, i've got a panny 50PX70 pdp, which can accept 1080p. I've updated to the beta 1.13 firmware and have the passthrough mode. It works fine if i passthrough 1080i so far. Now when i set the hddvd to upto 1080p and try and passthrough on vp30 it only outputs 1080i, but if i run the hddvd direct to the tv it outputs 1080p. Hopfully this makes sense?? Cos i'm confused. I've tried different hdmi cables, but makes no difference. Any ideas welcome. Thanks.

1080p Passthrough unfortunately seems to be very poorly implemented in the current FW. I've passed through 480p, 720p and 1080i just fine, but PS3 suffers from video flickering issues outputting 1080p (video sometimes drops to a black screen briefly) and my HTPC outputting 1080p just makes it go nuts with large amounts of video garbage any time there is movement on the screen.

Both devices work perfectly when hooked up directly to my HDTV. Just have to hope for an eventual fix in new FW.

Ah ok, well thats hopfully all the problem is then, thanks. Any idea on when the next update will be out? This beta version is awefull, hope it all gets sorted out quick.

1080p Passthrough unfortunately seems to be very poorly implemented in the current FW. I've passed through 480p, 720p and 1080i just fine, but PS3 suffers from video flickering issues outputting 1080p (video sometimes drops to a black screen briefly) and my HTPC outputting 1080p just makes it go nuts with large amounts of video garbage any time there is movement on the screen.

Both devices work perfectly when hooked up directly to my HDTV. Just have to hope for an eventual fix in new FW.


I am really glad I saw this. I was waiting for this before I upgraded my set. Media room TV (HLP6160W) only does 720. I want to switch to 1080p projector, but not until this feature is fixed. I would have been really dissapointed if I had jumped before hearing from someone who tested.

Anyone know if they are considering a better trade-in deal (to VP-50) for those of us who have been VERY patient throught this situation? We bought the VP-30 based on published specs that simply have not worked.

I am just reposting this information from VP20 thread since it sounds like it's related.

I recently emailed DVDO tech support about 1080p passthru.
June 8, 2007:

...the VP20 will be able to pass thru a 1080P signal by
way of a upcoming Firmware update. Currently it cannot pass thru a
1080P signal, but within a few weeks we should be releasing firmware
that will address this...


I very much need this ability as well.

Can anyone get any additional information on this firmware release?

I think a better trade-in to a VP50 would be nice as well, but unlikely. In any case, I looked into trade in before and for Canadians it doesn't work well. You'll end up paying fees and taxes at the border on the full price before trade-in. I did some looking into this, and it'd be easier for me to just sell my VP20 (which is actually still new in box, been sitting for months waiting for a display heh) and then buy a VP50 from eBay. I'd like to trade in for a good deal, but if it ends up costing hundreds more it's not worth it.

Does anyone know when a new firmware will be available?

DVDO usually doesn't release that information.

Given the lifespan of the product, I would assume we won't be getting many more updates (if any). The product has been released quite a while ago. I also don't think it really needs any more updates...

Oh, but it does... there are still audio dropouts with the current firmware.

To be asking quite much, I wouldn't comply in case NR would be offered as a firmware upgrade.
Also, I would pay for a hw upgrade just like the ABT 102 has been for VP30, if this could lead to high quality NR (MNR, TNR, etc.).

Since the current software (1.13) is still technically beta, I'd hope they would release a final production version or another small beta-prod cycle to clean up any remaining issues. I'm not expecting a torrent of new features of course, but just a final tidy-up (audio, pass-through, etc.)

-John

Since the current software (1.13) is still technically beta, I'd hope they would release a final production version or another small beta-prod cycle to clean up any remaining issues. I'm not expecting a torrent of new features of course, but just a final tidy-up (audio, pass-through, etc.)

-John


My point exactly!

I'm a relative newbie here, I hope I'm posting this question in the right way on the right thread. If not, apologies in advance.

I'm wondering whether anybody out there has experienced difficulties with the combination of Tivo 3 and the VP 30 connected via HDMI. I can't get ant encrypted digital channels which pass fine via component.

It would appear to be an HDMI handshake issue but where? Neither DVDO nor Tivo tech support could offer any advice. As might be expected the Comcast service people were completely lacking in knowledge about their own Cablecards but happily blamed both the Tivo and the VP 30 and recommended that I throw both of them out and use their HD STB connected directly to my single HDMI input monitor. Morons!!!

Any advice would be most gratefully received.

I'm a relative newbie here, I hope I'm posting this question in the right way on the right thread. If not, apologies in advance.

I'm wondering whether anybody out there has experienced difficulties with the combination of Tivo 3 and the VP 30 connected via HDMI. I can't get ant encrypted digital channels which pass fine via component.

It would appear to be an HDMI handshake issue but where? Neither DVDO nor Tivo tech support could offer any advice. As might be expected the Comcast service people were completely lacking in knowledge about their own Cablecards but happily blamed both the Tivo and the VP 30 and recommended that I throw both of them out and use their HD STB connected directly to my single HDMI input monitor. Morons!!!

Any advice would be most gratefully received.

Hi,
for HDCP signals be sure to have HDCP set to 'on' for both input and output. Are you seeing a picture and then the curtain closes or no pic at all?

Thanks so much for the tip. The HDCP setting for both input and output was ON. I tried going to and from ON to OFF a few times and suddenly everything worked. Magic?

Glad to hear you got it working. Welcome to the forum.

greyjay,

It sounds like someone does not like to shake hands nicely. What you were doing by turning on and off HDCP selection was forcing a handshake to take place. Eventually they got a good enough grip to make it work, metaphorically speaking.

Hi,

I'm trying to decide whether to get a VP30 or VP20. To me, the key difference is that the VP30 has component video output. But whether this matters or not, I'm not sure. I read somewhere that for long cable runs component video is better compared to HDMI. I'll probably need 40-50 feet of cable to the projector.

Would a 50 foot HDMI cable be okay? If yes, then I can just go for the VP20. Unless there's some other compelling reason to get a VP30?

I think that the VP20 only has 3 HDMI ins. I didn't think that I would fill all four HDMI slots on the VP30 up so fast, but have my HD-A1 going directly to my television's second HDMI in since I use it for 1080i only and my four ins are being used. I might need to get my Oppo SDI moded to free up another spot if I get another HDMI device.

In my case, I expect to use only 1 HDMI input and that's from a TViX M-4100SH (when I get it). Then I have 1 composite source and 2 or 3 component sources. Since both the VP20 and VP30 have only 2 component inputs, neither of them help in this situation. I might upgrade my DVD player or get an HD-DVD or Blu-Ray player at some point but that's not anytime soon. I think it'll be quite awhile before I need to worry about a 4th HDMI input.

Hi,

I'm trying to decide whether to get a VP30 or VP20. To me, the key difference is that the VP30 has component video output. But whether this matters or not, I'm not sure. I read somewhere that for long cable runs component video is better compared to HDMI. I'll probably need 40-50 feet of cable to the projector.

Would a 50 foot HDMI cable be okay? If yes, then I can just go for the VP20. Unless there's some other compelling reason to get a VP30?

If you buy a top-quality cable you should have no problem, but it does depend on the equipment involved (in your case, projector and VPXX), so get a return privilege if you can.

Many people on this forum have praised Monoprice for its high quality and very low prices. They offer a 21-day return with no restocking fee.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10240&cs_id=1024001&p_id=2678&style=&seq=1&format=4#feedback

I use their 50 foot cable at 720p with a VP30 and a BenQ PE-8720. The picture is excellent and there are no sparkles.

The real problem with HDMI and the VPXX, reported elsewhere in this thread, is that some projectors won't perform correct HDCP handshaking when connected to an intermediate device (like a video processor) as opposed to a direct connection with a source device. I have that problem; however, I don't believe that anyone has blamed it on the cable.

If you buy a top-quality cable you should have no problem, but it does depend on the equipment involved (in your case, projector and VPXX), so get a return privilege if you can.

Many people on this forum have praised Monoprice for its high quality and very low prices. They offer a 21-day return with no restocking fee.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10240&cs_id=1024001&p_id=2678&style=&seq=1&format=4#feedback

I use their 50 foot cable at 720p with a VP30 and a BenQ PE-8720. The picture is excellent and there are no sparkles.

The real problem with HDMI and the VPXX, reported elsewhere in this thread, is that some projectors won't perform correct HDCP handshaking when connected to an intermediate device (like a video processor) as opposed to a direct connection with a source device. I have that problem; however, I don't believe that anyone has blamed it on the cable.
Thanks for the reply! Good advice. I should probably try the VP20 first and exchange it later for a VP30 if there are problems. Living in Finland, I doubt I'll find those Monoprice cables over here. But, I'm sure I can find decent a decent enough HDMI cable for the price difference between the VP20 and VP30. :)

Regarding the HDCP handshaking issue, I guess this can be solved by simply using the component output on the VP30?

Josh,


What is the basic difference between the VP30 and he VP50?

Also, I run everything from my Accuphase C-290 a great preamplifier but it only has analog inputs. I notice that both the VP30 and the VP50 only have digtal audio outputs. Do you have any suggestions ?

Regarding the HDCP handshaking issue, I guess this can be solved by simply using the component output on the VP30?

Hi,
just wanted to point out the VP30 has 3 component inputs. The 3rd is at the RGBHV input with bnc connectors which also can be used for component input. We're using the bnc component input for our Blu-ray player and the VP30 will output to either HDMI or analog(component).

If given the choice I would choose to use the HDMI input on a projector even with a long run. You might have to audition a few cables before finding a good one.

Hi,
just wanted to point out the VP30 has 3 component inputs. The 3rd is at the RGBHV input with bnc connectors which also can be used for component input. We're using the bnc component input for our Blu-ray player and the VP30 will output to either HDMI or analog(component).

If given the choice I would choose to use the HDMI input on a projector even with a long run. You might have to audition a few cables before finding a good one.
Thanks for the info! I need that 3rd component input so I guess I'll go for the VP30. Anyway, the price difference (that I'm getting) between the VP20 and VP30 is probably worth a good HDMI cable. And since I already have component cables running to the projector, I'll "save" money by not having to buy an HDMI cable.

I might switch to HDMI eventually but at least I don't have to worry about it right now. Audtioning cables isn't very easy here and there's not a whole lot to choose from either.

By the way, I'm also curious about the Vantage-HD but I'm worried about delay issues for gaming. The VPxx has a game mode so I guess it's better in that respect.

Thanks for the info! I need that 3rd component input so I guess I'll go for the VP30. Anyway, the price difference (that I'm getting) between the VP20 and VP30 is probably worth a good HDMI cable. And since I already have component cables running to the projector, I'll "save" money by not having to buy an HDMI cable.

I might switch to HDMI eventually but at least I don't have to worry about it right now. Audtioning cables isn't very easy here and there's not a whole lot to choose from either.

By the way, I'm also curious about the Vantage-HD but I'm worried about delay issues for gaming. The VPxx has a game mode so I guess it's better in that respect.
Note, I believe the BNC input only supports HD modes, 480p and up, but not SD modes like 480i.

Note, I believe the BNC input only supports HD modes, 480p and up, but not SD modes like 480i.

Very true, the bnc component input will not accept 480i.

Very true, the bnc component input will not accept 480i.
Bummer. That means the source will have to do the de-interlacing and send 480p towards the VP30. That kinda defeats the purpose, right?

Anyway, I'm expecting the VP30 today (I wish the delivery guy would hurry up!). I could still swap it for a VP20 but somehow I'm not very confident with an HDMI connection. I have a Panasonic PT-AX100 and there was another guy on this thread saying he had problems with the HDMI connection to this particular projector. So maybe I'm better off with component video.

By the way, is it always best to set the VP's output to the native resolution of the display? My logic says yes but I want to check with you guys. For the AX100, that would be 1280x720. So should I simply set the output to 720p regardless of input?

By the way, is it always best to set the VP's output to the native resolution of the display?

Yes. Absolutely. Always.

I could still swap it for a VP20 but somehow I'm not very confident with an HDMI connection. I

I would use HDMI as a first resort. If you can't get it working, then try component. Most of the HDMI issues seems to revolve around audio, which can always be routed seperately to the receiver.

Can I connect my sony BDP 300 1080p 24 fps, to the VP30, how the output will be, 24Hz, 48Hz or 60hz?, it's worth the money investment and do I note any difference in PQ?
I appreciate any help, thanks

Bummer. That means the source will have to do the de-interlacing and send 480p towards the VP30. That kinda defeats the purpose, right?

Kind of yes... but if you need all three component inputs you could try to use (if possible) the BNC input for the equipment that doesn't support 480i output. A pc for example.


By the way, is it always best to set the VP's output to the native resolution of the display? My logic says yes but I want to check with you guys. For the AX100, that would be 1280x720. So should I simply set the output to 720p regardless of input?
I would recommend that you set the output to the native resolution of your PJ (1280x720), and let the VP do the scaling from all the inputs.
I would also recommend that you do a pixel mapping and simple calibration of the PJ using only the VP and the PJ. After that you can fine tune each input.
There should be a guide somewhere on the dvdo homepage.

On my VP30 I do 1280x720 out for all inputs and resolutions, except when I want to do 1080p. For 1080p I need to enable passthru. I also find that for 1080i to 720p the Vp30 does a good job (it goes from 1080i to 720p without the usual 1080i->540p->720p. Instead it does something smarter and goes directly from 1080i to 720p (it is explained somewhere in this thread))
I also think that the passthru mode only works with HDMI (please correct me if I'm wrong). I also found that I had to tweak the PJ (and the VP's output) a bit when I enabled 1080p passthru as the picture was bigger when using passthru. So I adjusted the PJ to match the passthru picture, next I adjusted the output from VP such that both modes filled the PJ screen.

Good luck!

M.

hi guys


if use firmware vp30-1.11 and vp30 1.13(beta),i get a chroma problem eg red moving patches on the face,person wearing gray,walls that are blue or gray.

if i bypass the vp30(direct to plasma)using firmware 1.11 & 1.13 the problems gone.
this happens on both sources DVB and DVD.
when i revert back to 1.10 the problem is no longer there!!

I owned a DVDO HD+ before but never had this problem :(

has anyone noticed this?

MXM

Looks like a new beta FW 1.14 is available.

Everyone,

I just installed 1.14. The serial interface is operational again, which means Barry's utility is up and running again. I am also noticing that my settings have been retained the last few upgrades. I do not had the other issues people have talked about.

Later,
DVReid

Interesting, I did not know the Utility was down (:-). I guess if there is no serial communications it doesn't work! LOL. No offense DVR.. You did make me laugh. Thanks.

I have drifted away from the VP world for a while. I am working on Pronto PRO remote controls. I have a nice little Gamma curve system ready to go as part of the utility, but am waiting for DVDO to tell me that their side is ready (VP50).

Everyone,

I just installed 1.14. The serial interface is operational again, which means Barry's utility is up and running again. I am also noticing that my settings have been retained the last few upgrades. I do not had the other issues people have talked about.

Later,
DVReid

So, no audio dropouts through coaxial and optical connections? Woo-hoo! Gonna make some upgrades tonight! :D

Movie_fan,

My audio dropouts disappeared at 1.11 or 1.12 for the most part.

DVReid

Barry,

I love what your utility can do. On 1.12 the serial stopped working. I could not install 1.13 through your utility because it would never find the VP30 and after 1.13 installation it still would not work. If you look back in the thread the was a small conversation about this. As soon as I installed 1.14 the utility found everything just fine.

DVReid

Movie_fan,

My audio dropouts disappeared at 1.11 or 1.12 for the most part.

DVReid

Well, mine just got worse. Running FW 1.07 now...

Can't wait for the version that properly HDCP handshakes with a Sony PS3 doing 1080p passthrough, a device that tons of VP30 owners definitely use!

V1.13 -> 1.14 went from 1080p passthrough flickering or sometimes working with PS3, to a completely black screen.

So you're saying that with v1.14 the flickering is gone, right?

:eek:

(along with the rest of the picture, apparently)

Anybody try it with another Blu-ray player like the BDP-S1 yet?

-John

Doug, Yes I now recall that. I am working on other things that have me tied up right now so my mind, what little is left of it, is somewhere else.

I got a note from Mark Strega who let me know about the changes in certain parameters H zoom, V zoom and Overscan. The ini file just needs to be changed. I think I will just let the users do it, and if they have issues they will let me know. It should not be a problem for any one competent enough to deal with a VP30 or VP50.

Would just like to chime in and mention that the VP30 can't passthrough 1080p from my HTPC, either (image OK, but constant snow and flickering).

So, for now, 1080p passthrough should be considered non-existent! :eek:

Would just like to chime in and mention that the VP30 can't passthrough 1080p from my HTPC, either (image OK, but constant snow and flickering).

So, for now, 1080p passthrough should be considered non-existent! :eek:

What kind of output are you using from your HTPC?
Do you have v1.13 or v1.14 loaded on your VP30?
Does this happen with both versions (if you've tried both)?

What kind of output are you using from your HTPC?
Do you have v1.13 or v1.14 loaded on your VP30?
Does this happen with both versions (if you've tried both)?

1920x1080 @ 60 hz.
It's interesting to note that using the newest Catalyst drivers, if I let the 1080p signal from my HTPC output UNDERSCANNED, there are no problems. But as soon as I set it to 0% underscan in my video card settings (so that it will fill the screen completely), the VP30 output goes bonkers. Works fine going straight to my HDTV, so I know I am dealing with a passthrough problem.

Currently, have 1.14 loaded.

Happens on both 1.13 and 1.14.

Hope to see both this and PS3 1080p passthrough working in the near future!

Everyone,

I just installed 1.14. The serial interface is operational again, which means Barry's utility is up and running again. I am also noticing that my settings have been retained the last few upgrades. I do not had the other issues people have talked about.

Later,
DVReid
What version of the utility are you using? I uploaded the 1.14 sw but no luck connecting with Barry's, haven' tried the 151 version yet, but it did not work with the latest upgrade version 136, I think. I did not perform factory reset or such, did you do one?

Seems like remote response is better with this latest version.

I loaded 1.14 and now have a new HDMI/HDCP issue. If the source (say a Moto DCT5100 cable box) doesn't send an HDCP handshake, the curtain closes and no video is displayed. I tried turning off HDCP in/out but that did not help. So I can't view sources over HDMI wothout HDCP handshakes.

I loaded 1.14 and now have a new HDMI/HDCP issue. If the source (say a Moto DCT5100 cable box) doesn't send an HDCP handshake, the curtain closes and no video is displayed. I tried turning off HDCP in/out but that did not help. So I can't view sources over HDMI wothout HDCP handshakes.

Hi,
did you try all the easy fixes like turning power off then on and unplugging the vp30 for a min. then plugging back in? You probably tried all these - just checking.

Hi,
did you try all the easy fixes like turning power off then on and unplugging the vp30 for a min. then plugging back in? You probably tried all these - just checking.
I tried all of the obvious restarts; I reverted to 1.11b and everything is working again. I've got an e-mail into ABT, we'll see what they say about the issue.

I tried all of the obvious restarts; I reverted to 1.11b and everything is working again. I've got an e-mail into ABT, we'll see what they say about the issue.

Would like to chime in and say that I have the same problem with 1.14. I'm going back to 1.13 now until this gets sorted out.

Ok, installed 1.14. Audio dropout situation is better, but it's still there.....

God, that looks like a tough one! :(

Hi,
for HDCP signals be sure to have HDCP set to 'on' for both input and output. Are you seeing a picture and then the curtain closes or no pic at all?


Similar issue here. Except that mine was working fine for a few months (ver 1.11) and while watching HD on a Motorolla cable box the "curtain" closed over the pic and now no pic from that source. If I remove the vp30 from the link the pic is back to my pj


John

Similar issue here. Except that mine was working fine for a few months (ver 1.11) and while watching HD on a Motorolla cable box the "curtain" closed over the pic and now no pic from that source. If I remove the vp30 from the link the pic is back to my pj


JohnJohn,

You are saying you have the issue after upgrading the FW to 1.14, correct?

Actually, you can watch your high def channels, just not the ones without HDCP (at least I can).

I am not making much progress with reporting this and getting it acknowledged as a real problem.

John,

You are saying you have the issue after upgrading the FW to 1.14, correct?

Actually, you can watch your high def channels, just not the ones without HDCP (at least I can).

I am not making much progress with reporting this and getting it acknowledged as a real problem.


Mark,

I didn't upgrade because of the problems you had so I am still on 1.11. Everything was working fine but not anymore. I haven't messed with it too much so I have yet to do a factory reboot.

John

My interest in VPs have grown substantially over the last couple of months, however, I have a few questions that would help me in my decision and understanding. I have the moto 6416 hd/dvr box and have it set to 1080i for HD sources and 480i passthrough for 480i sources. My question is, if I connected a vp30 or 50 would I leave the moto box set at 1080i? I guess I'm wondering what would happen to 720p channels... is the moto upscaling and interlacing into 1080i and then would pass that to the vp30/50 for deinterlacing? I have a panasonic 50px60u (1366x768) and I'm not sure if it supports 1:1 pixel mapping (thru dvi or hdmi), is there a way to know? What would be the ideal setting at the VP level to feed to the TV?

Question about specific application, in jist of the question is, how much benefit will I get using the processors component out?

I am using a Netstreams distributed HD A/V system, Netstreams claims the unit (MLAV300) can take a HD component signal (uncompressed) and then put it back together near your TV at the other end, via the internet.

So the scenario is this:
You have 6 sources, then you put two DVDO vp-30s inline, with dual connections for all of the sources. The VP-30 can accepts component, DVI, HDMI video and digital coax, optical and HDMI audio. It has both HDMI AND a processed output to component video and coax audio.

From here, you connect a VP-30 into 1 of 2 NetSteam MLAV300 which will accept the VP-30's single component video and single audio output, 1 per TV. This will go into the network and then comes out at the TV at one of two VL100's.

The question, as stated earlier is, will there be ANY processing on a signal that comes out of the VP-30?

Thanks

My interest in VPs have grown substantially over the last couple of months, however, I have a few questions that would help me in my decision and understanding. I have the moto 6416 hd/dvr box and have it set to 1080i for HD sources and 480i passthrough for 480i sources. My question is, if I connected a vp30 or 50 would I leave the moto box set at 1080i? I guess I'm wondering what would happen to 720p channels... is the moto upscaling and interlacing into 1080i and then would pass that to the vp30/50 for deinterlacing? I have a panasonic 50px60u (1366x768) and I'm not sure if it supports 1:1 pixel mapping (thru dvi or hdmi), is there a way to know? What would be the ideal setting at the VP level to feed to the TV?

I think all of my Comcast box signals are in either 480 or 1080i. I'm not sure which channels are 720p, but I believe the ones that I watch are all 1080i. The box outputs the signals in these resolutions and the VP30 upscales the standard definition stuff. My PS3 does have a number of games and trailers in 720p. Once again I let it output everything in it's native resolutions and let the DVDO/ABT102 do all the scaling. Hopefully your DVR will allow you to output 720p channels as 720p. I only watch a couple of HD channels that are 1080 native.

Question about specific application, in jist of the question is, how much benefit will I get using the processors component out?

I am using a Netstreams distributed HD A/V system, Netstreams claims the unit (MLAV300) can take a HD component signal (uncompressed) and then put it back together near your TV at the other end, via the internet.

So the scenario is this:
You have 6 sources, then you put two DVDO vp-30s inline, with dual connections for all of the sources. The VP-30 can accepts component, DVI, HDMI video and digital coax, optical and HDMI audio. It has both HDMI AND a processed output to component video and coax audio.

From here, you connect a VP-30 into 1 of 2 NetSteam MLAV300 which will accept the VP-30's single component video and single audio output, 1 per TV. This will go into the network and then comes out at the TV at one of two VL100's.

The question, as stated earlier is, will there be ANY processing on a signal that comes out of the VP-30?

Thanks

The iScan VP30 CAN process these input signals on its respective inputs and output a processed signal over component video:

Composite: NTSC/PAL/SECAM
S-Video: NTSC/PAL/SECAM
Component: 480i/p, 576i/p, 720p, 1080i
RGBHV/Component: 480p, 576p, 720p, 1080i, VGA-SXGA@60Hz
HDMI: 480i/p, 576i/p, 720p, 1080i, VGA-SXGA@60Hz

The one thing to note is that any input HDMI input signal that also has HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) will not be able be output over the component outputs of the VP30. This is a legal issue, not a technical limitation.

In general the operation of the VP line is best (IMHO and others) configured as follows:

1) Set the output section first and try to get a 1:1 pixel mapping with your display over a digital output. This can be checked for using the test patterns in the VP. Doing this implies that the display will do no scaling the assumption being that the VP does it better. If that assumption is wrong then why did you buy . . There may also be some setting on the display to force it to not perform any scaling or other picture "improvement" activities.

2) On each input source set it to put out the native resolution of the signal coming in. This in theory should stop the source device from doing any scaling on the assumption that . . . (see above). On a DVD palyer without SDI set it for interlaced output not progressive as that is what is on the DVD; unless of course the DVD player has a better de-interlacer than the vp, see above assumption. On a set top box set it to output whatever resolutiuon the signal comes in at. In my situation using a SA HD8300 DVR I set t to output all resolutions which then achieves the desired result.

3) Lastly adjust the VP parameters for each source / signal type to look the best. The VP remembers all settings major by source (well actually selected input connection), minor by signal type (resolution)

If done right you could end up with a pure digital chain from head end to display or pretty close to it. I have that with my STB's, and with the DVD players from the dvd signal (non SDI) to the display. When the signal is good, it looks very very good, when the signal is crappy it looks crappy.

The iScan VP30 CAN process these input signals on its respective inputs and output a processed signal over component video:

Composite: NTSC/PAL/SECAM
S-Video: NTSC/PAL/SECAM
Component: 480i/p, 576i/p, 720p, 1080i
RGBHV/Component: 480p, 576p, 720p, 1080i, VGA-SXGA@60Hz
HDMI: 480i/p, 576i/p, 720p, 1080i, VGA-SXGA@60Hz

The one thing to note is that any input HDMI input signal that also has HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) will not be able be output over the component outputs of the VP30. This is a legal issue, not a technical limitation.

Josh, thank you for the reply. Just to make sure, there really wouldn't be a benefit to have a VP50, in this situation?
Thanks

The one thing to note is that any input HDMI input signal that also has HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection) will not be able be output over the component outputs of the VP30. This is a legal issue, not a technical limitation.

Josh,

Should this legal restriction also apply to RGBHV (VGA) outputs? Does HDCP forbid all analog output if it is present on any input?

The reason I ask is, IIRC, the Xbox 360 is able to provide an analog 1080p output via its VGA output for HD-DVD sources. Granted, that's just dealing with AACS (not HDCP licensing) but I thought I'd float it out there.

-John

Josh,

When are you planning to release a production software for VP-30? I think the beta version has been there for more than a month. Some users have pointed out to some bugs in ver 1.14, are you guys working on a fix for these bugs?

Thanks

The remote receiver in the VP30 has never been very sensitive, but using my Pronto has overcome this to some degree.
But since the latest firmware upgrade even the Pronto must be aimed very exact to get some response, no to speak of the original remote which is now even more difficult to operate.
I already have the replacement lens, which didn't make much of a difference btw.
Anyone?

Sorry if I am missing something obvious, but I intend to get a blueray player from Santa, and I wonder if my VP30 will support the 24 images-per-second movie mode as offered by BlueRay?
BTW- just bought a full HD Panny plasma and 1080p from the VP30 works flawlessly- I wonder what HD will be able to add to the magnificent picture in SD mode...

The remote receiver in the VP30 has never been very sensitive, but using my Pronto has overcome this to some degree.
But since the latest firmware upgrade even the Pronto must be aimed very exact to get some response, no to speak of the original remote which is now even more difficult to operate.
I already have the replacement lens, which didn't make much of a difference btw.
Anyone?

Could you explain to me, how firmware changes can do this?

Could you explain to me, how firmware changes can do this?


Not a clue- but it's not impossible that currents, voltages and routing of signals can be changed from software.
DVDO has been very silent on the issue I must admit...
Anyway, I think I'm gonna replace the ir diode by a more powerful one, which might be helpful if the available current allows this.

Gard,

At one point, some VP30 units shipped witha slighly altered IR eye filter (the small piece of plastic on the front that passes only IR signals). Contact DVDO technical support and ask them if you can get a replacement one that's a bit more sensitive.

barend,

I dont' think 24FPS was announced for VP30. If you like the SD picture on your FHD display, you will love FULL HD on it...

Gard,

At one point, some VP30 units shipped witha slighly altered IR eye filter (the small piece of plastic on the front that passes only IR signals). Contact DVDO technical support and ask them if you can get a replacement one that's a bit more sensitive.

barend,

I dont' think 24FPS was announced for VP30. If you like the SD picture on your FHD display, you will love FULL HD on it...

Thanks-
Can't wait: In september the first dual tuner HD sat receiver comes on the market so I can watch the full HD German stations!
As for Blueray: Will wait for the market to settle down and the discs to become more commonplace - and I don't want to get caught in the Region trap...
As always, the VP30 gave a better pic than a direct hdmi line!

I just wanted to give some thanks to Barry for all the work he put into his DVDO Utility. I had a chance to (finally) update my firmware from 1.09a to 1.11b last night. His tool was a pleasure to use, and the information it displays is extremely helpful.

You are quite welcome, The thanks and feedback are appreciated. Many do not realize that I attempt to maintain backwards compatibility (the program was designed to make that easy as it is table driven with the ability to dynamically read the table based on model and installed features) and upgrade the program for the new model(s). The current version is aimed at the VP30 and the VP50, and I will be upgrading the utility to handle any models that DVDO may be introducing in the near future.

I just wanted to give some thanks to Barry for all the work he put into his DVDO Utility. I had a chance to (finally) update my firmware from 1.09a to 1.11b last night. His tool was a pleasure to use, and the information it displays is extremely helpful.

I feel like a silly school kid, giggling in the corner... :p

yetis, May I ask what is so funny so that I can giggle in the center of the room?

yetis, May I ask what is so funny so that I can giggle in the center of the room?

Could be because the rest of the forum members har been trought 1.12, 1.13 and 1.14. and he's going for the old production version. My 2¢

Could be because the rest of the forum members har been trought 1.12, 1.13 and 1.14. and he's going for the old production version. My 2¢

I'll wait for the bugs to get worked out of the betas before doing another install. Until then I'll stick with the production code and read about the experience other members are having with the beta code. The new features available in the betas definitely look great, but I'd rather spend my time watching movies that having to deal with any potential firmware bugs.

Gard,

At one point, some VP30 units shipped witha slighly altered IR eye filter (the small piece of plastic on the front that passes only IR signals). Contact DVDO technical support and ask them if you can get a replacement one that's a bit more sensitive.

barend,

I dont' think 24FPS was announced for VP30. If you like the SD picture on your FHD display, you will love FULL HD on it...

Yes, I remember the IR lens, but my question was how could a firmware change alter the response of a remote control? Behavior ok, but sensitivity?

Yes, I remember the IR lens, but my question was how could a firmware change alter the response of a remote control? Behavior ok, but sensitivity?Pretty easily - For example, if you have a sensor that has a setting like sensitivity or gain you might make adjustments to lower false positives at the expense of more false negatives it you are operating in a noisy environment. I've played with a fingerprint scanner that had major reliability differences based on how you set certain firmware criteria. You could go from making it almost impossible to get a good scan, but the scans were doggone close to perfect to the other extreme of almost anything scanned was accepted but the qulity was very poor.

Pretty easily - For example, if you have a sensor that has a setting like sensitivity or gain you might make adjustments to lower false positives at the expense of more false negatives it you are operating in a noisy environment. I've played with a fingerprint scanner that had major reliability differences based on how you set certain firmware criteria. You could go from making it almost impossible to get a good scan, but the scans were doggone close to perfect to the other extreme of almost anything scanned was accepted but the qulity was very poor.

Here's hoping that DVDO will look into the matter...clearly there's a design flaw in the ir receiver circuitry.
It may or may not be remedied by a software update.
And the diode's angle is quite narrow, which is why I want to experiment with a wider angle unit.

@ Oferlaor

Why do you look so much like me when I was much, much younger?
It's creepy... :eek: :eek: :eek:

Here's hoping that DVDO will look into the matter...clearly there's a design flaw in the ir receiver circuitry.
It may or may not be remedied by a software update.
And the diode's angle is quite narrow, which is why I want to experiment with a wider angle unit.Hasn't it been suggested that FW 1.14 has better IR sensivity than the previous beta FW's?

Well, still audio dropouts in the VP30, and now a new processor comes along.......

I just received my VP-30 about 2 hours ago. When I powered it on the display read "Load .abt file now...". This had me confused until I learned it was looking for a firmware file. I'm not sure why my unit didn't have any firmware initially loaded, but that is another issue.

I installed Tera Term Pro and downloaded 1.11 from the Anchor Bay support pages. I loaded the firmware file to the VP-30 and the unit does s system reset after the file is loaded and then once again asks for the .abt file.

I have tried twice now to load the file and with no luck.

The file I am loading is labelled vp30v1.11.abt.

I just received my VP-30 about 2 hours ago. When I powered it on the display read "Load .abt file now...". This had me confused until I learned it was looking for a firmware file. I'm not sure why my unit didn't have any firmware initially loaded, but that is another issue.

I installed Tera Term Pro and downloaded 1.11 from the Anchor Bay support pages. I loaded the firmware file to the VP-30 and the unit does s system reset after the file is loaded and then once again asks for the .abt file.

I have tried twice now to load the file and with no luck.

The file I am loading is labelled vp30v1.11.abt.

Are you using the correct (NOT latest) version of the FTDI USB-to-serial driver. Apparently the latest version has an issue.

You can download the correct version to use here:

http://www.anchorbaytech.com/docs/zip/R9052151.zip

I am not using a USB-Serial cable. I have a serial connection on my laptop that I am using.

I also tried the 1.14 firmware with the same results.

It seems the VP30 is not accepting any firmware that is sent to it. It may be as simple as a defective unit. I am going to return it tomorrow and try to get another.

Tera Term seems to be very sensitive/picky. Have you tried Barry's tool?

http://www.the-gordons.net/homepage/DownLoad.html

Barry's utility wouldn't connect to the VP30.

Sounds like you've made a valiant effort, but I'd say it's RMA time. Hope you bought from an authorized reseller.

My HT equipment is as follows:

Video Processor: VP30 with abt102 (Firmware 1.10)
TV: Mitsubishi WD-65732 65” 1920 X 1080P panel resolution and input capable
Dish Receiver: ViP 622
DVD Player: Oppo DV-970HD
Cabling: HDMI (nothing special, but not the cheapest either)

HDMI cables are used between all source equipment to the VP30 and from the VP30 to the TV.

All source equipment is set at the 480i resolution, except for HD programming being set to 1080i or 720P whichever is native. VP30 is set to output at 1080P.


Here is my question. My wife and I watch about 70% Dish Network SD programming. The remaining 30% is HD or DVD’s (no real issues there). Even with the VP30 doing the de-interlacing and up-scaling, SD programming is nearly unwatchable at times.

I realize that highly compressed SD video will never look great on a 65" TV, but I want it too look as good as possible. Any ideas on ways to improve this picture?

Do you think the VP50 pro would perform any better since it incorporates mosquito noise reduction and edge enhancement? Also, the VP30 outputs 1080P, but is it a true 1080P? I know it doesn't deinterlace 1080i, but it still outputs in 1080P. Will the VP50 pro upscale 480i to a true 1080P?

I’ve also read that connecting equipment such as mine via component cables can yield a better picture. This doesn’t seem possible to me. What do you think?

Anyone who passed on the upgrade to the VP50 considering a jump to the VP50pro? I'm just curious if anyone is on the fence besides me...

Anyone who passed on the upgrade to the VP50 considering a jump to the VP50pro? I'm just curious if anyone is on the fence besides me...I pulled the trigger yesterday; There was enough 'extra' in the Pro that it seemed worthwhile. Everyone has to decide for themselves if the upgrade is worth it or not. Obviously, it is perceived to be worth it to me.

I want to know if it auto-switches HDMI inputs before I get one. I returned my VP30 because of that.
Warren.

Obviously, it is perceived to be worth it to me.

Agreed, the added noise reduction features, and HDMI 1.3 support are big selling points for me. I don't have a display that supports 1080p inputs though (only 720p and 1080i), so much of the processing power I can't totally take advantage of.

Hello all

I generally do not load beta firmware until it has been finalized. I was getting rather impatient so I loaded the beta1.14 firmware. All went well as usual but the first thing I noticed, as did a number of others on this forum, was that the remote response is very sluggish. I sit almost 2 feet away from my VP30 and i find I now have to push some of the buttons 2 or more times before the VP responds. I was using firmware 1.11 previously and i was able to get the VP to respond almost 20 feet away without a hiccup. I also have the updated IR lens as well.

Greg

Hello all

I generally do not load beta firmware until it has been finalized. I was getting rather impatient so I loaded the beta1.14 firmware. All went well as usual but the first thing I noticed, as did a number of others on this forum, was that the remote response is very sluggish. I sit almost 2 feet away from my VP30 and i find I now have to push some of the buttons 2 or more times before the VP responds. I was using firmware 1.11 previously and i was able to get the VP to respond almost 20 feet away without a hiccup. I also have the updated IR lens as well.

Greg


Actually, I programmed my Pronto to repeat the commands 3 times with a 0,1sec interval, now I have a better chance to a hit...
It's a bit sad though, that a hi-tec factory like Anchor Bay can't build a decent ir receiver!

Hello!

Am I the only one that has some HDMI audio problems with the VP30?

My setup:

Toshiba HD-E1 HD-DVD player (HDMI connection to the VP30)
Pioneer DV-600 AV DVD player (HDMI connection to the VP30)
VP30 with 1.13 firmware (HDMI connection to the 805)
Onkyo TX-SR 805 surrond receiver (HDMI to DVI connection to the screen)
Panasonic TH-50PH9 plasma screen (1366x768)

When the HD-E1 is connected to the VP30 I get no DD+ or Dolby True HD sound over HDMI, I have to use coax and a down sampled DTS 5.1 signal to get any sound. If the HD-DVD player is connected directly to the 805 everthing is fine (if I remeber correctly, has been three days since I tested this).

The same goes with DVD-audio or SACD from the DV-600, no sound at all connected to the VP30. Again, connected directly to the 805 everything is fine.

Connecting the VP30 after the 805 would fix the sound, but create huge lip sync problems. And I would then get the 805 720p upscaled picture from SD sources. Anything over 720p is just passed through the 805, so 1080i from HD-E1 would work, again with some lip sync issues.

The VP30 supports HDMI 1.1/ 1.2? Selecting passthrou from the Input conf. menu changes nothing but the picture. HDMI is on everywhere.

From http://www.anchorbaytech.com/support/faq/vp30.php#faq5 :

The HDMI inputs will also accept audio, given that the video signal is on the same input. If the audio format is Dolby Digital, dts, or PCM then the audio available on the HDMI output from the source will be available at optical/coaxial digital outputs. Excluded formats include Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus, dts-HD, MLP (DVD-Audio) and DSD (SACD) which SPDIF connections are incapable of carrying due to bandwidth limitations.

Is it possible to get my setup to work? Think I've played with every audio setting there is on these boxes, but I cound have missed something...

Thankfull for any input!

Try upgrading to FW 1.14...

Try upgrading to FW 1.14...

Will try that. Leave for one week in the woods tomorrow, but will report back later.

Hello!

Am I the only one that has some HDMI audio problems with the VP30?

My setup:

Toshiba HD-E1 HD-DVD player (HDMI connection to the VP30)
Pioneer DV-600 AV DVD player (HDMI connection to the VP30)
VP30 with 1.13 firmware (HDMI connection to the 805)
Onkyo TX-SR 805 surrond receiver (HDMI to DVI connection to the screen)
Panasonic TH-50PH9 plasma screen (1366x768)

When the HD-E1 is connected to the VP30 I get no DD+ or Dolby True HD sound over HDMI, I have to use coax and a down sampled DTS 5.1 signal to get any sound. If the HD-DVD player is connected directly to the 805 everthing is fine (if I remeber correctly, has been three days since I tested this).

The same goes with DVD-audio or SACD from the DV-600, no sound at all connected to the VP30. Again, connected directly to the 805 everything is fine.

Are you trying to send the audio as bitstream or PCM? If I remember correctly, the VP30 is HDMI 1.1, so you should be able to pass through the audio as 5.1 PCM (HDMI in to HDMI out). You don't run into this issue when connecting either player directly to your 805 because the 805 is HDMI 1.3 compatible, it will accept native TrueHD, DD+, SACD, etc.

Are you trying to send the audio as bitstream or PCM? If I remember correctly, the VP30 is HDMI 1.1, so you should be able to pass through the audio as 5.1 PCM (HDMI in to HDMI out). You don't run into this issue when connecting either player directly to your 805 because the 805 is HDMI 1.3 compatible, it will accept native TrueHD, DD+, SACD, etc.

I've tried both, bitstream and PCM over HDMI both fails. Over optical/coax I get the DTS 5.1 downmix, and that sounds nice, but I shoud get multichannel pcm if I understand everything correctly. I'll try the 1.14 firmware, hope that helps.

Does the VP30 work correctly if PS3 is forced to 1080p24 and it allows signal to pass through correctly? Also sound?

Does the VP30 work correctly if PS3 is forced to 1080p24 and it allows signal to pass through correctly? Also sound?

Yes, it does. I tried it and passthrough automatically kicked in. Sound was also there.

Yes, it does. I tried it and passthrough automatically kicked in. Sound was also there.

How did you verify that it was on pass through mode?

Can VP30 output sound optical if sound is coming from HDMI?

How did you verify that it was on pass through mode?


In the Status screen.



Can VP30 output sound optical if sound is coming from HDMI?

Yes. I'm outputting coaxial, anyway.

In the Status screen.

Yes. I'm outputting coaxial, anyway.
Ouch, so there is no obstacles for buying PS3. At the moment I only have 720p projector and once I get verified that PS3 scales 1080p -> 720p correctly (I know it scales 1080i correctly, no bob there) I can start counting my pesetas :)

How does the VP30 handle 1080p, does it use bob for video and weaving for film?

Ouch, so there is no obstacles for buying PS3. At the moment I only have 720p projector and once I get verified that PS3 scales 1080p -> 720p correctly (I know it scales 1080i correctly, no bob there) I can start counting my pesetas :)
How does the VP30 handle 1080p, does it use bob for video and weaving for film?

My projector is also 720p, but I haven't made a thorough test yet on the PS3, I'm still on a mood for SD. :)

My projector is also 720p, but I haven't made a thorough test yet on the PS3, I'm still on a mood for SD. :)

Don't you use PS3 to downscale 1080i/p -> 720p?

Don't you use PS3 to downscale 1080i/p -> 720p?

No, I use my VP30 for that. Still, I haven't tested which one does it better.

How does the VP30 handle 1080p, does it use bob for video and weaving for film?

As far as I know, VP30 doesn't handle 1080p at its input (other than pass-through with latest FW).

How does the VP30 handle 1080p, does it use bob for video and weaving for film?I assume you mean how does VP30 handles 1080i in to 1080p out? If so: every 520 line field is directly scaled to a 1080p frame. In the process every other field is vertically shifted for half a line to more or less match the two fields. So the information of the two 520 line field is averaged over two 1080p frames. They say it looks reaonably nice.

Unstable 480i 3/2 pulldown to 24/48 Locked cadence output?

Over the weekend I tried a VP30 with 1.14 firmware. Source is a Pioneer 450 DVD-HDRecorder HDMI 480i Output. VP30 Outputs in HDMI 1080p, tried both 24/48 Locked mode. Display is the Sony Pearl VW50 HDMI-HDMI in 1:1 mode.

The Pioneer outputs 480i to VP30 then 24/48 locked Output to the projector, the cadence playback can break easily. For example, if I keep repeat a movie chapter with a remote, there may be at least 2-3 times out of 10 times the cadence lock will break and the 24/48 output image will stutter heavily. While the picture stutter, the VP30 still show the "blue" LED meaning it still run in the correct 3/2 pulldown mode and only the Output sequence is incorrect.

On the other hand, no matter how hard I tried, I can never break the cadence lock with a PS3 playing a blu-ray outputs in 1080 24p to the projector. And the VP30 also plays perfectly smooth in 60Hz locked mode to the projector.

The VP30 does not have the AB102 addon. Will the AB102 card help the cadence lock playback? I doubt it as the VP30 still runs in the correct 3/2 pulldown mode with the stutter Output.

My question is, does the VP30 really supports a perfect cadence locked playback with a 480i 3/2 source to a 24/48 Output?

And if the VP30 can not do a perfect 24/48 output cadence lock, will the newer VP50/pro fully support the feature?

regards,

Li On

www.pixelmagicsystems.com

Unstable 480i 3/2 pulldown to 24/48 Locked cadence output?Employee from a competitor to DVDO making negative and misleading comments in this thread?

While the picture stutter, the VP30 still show the "blue" LED meaning it still run in the correct 3/2 pulldown mode and only the Output sequence is incorrect.The LEDs on the front of the VP30 aren't intended to indicate anything about the status of the unit's deinterlacer. If you're going go around spreading FUD, the least you should at least try and do your homework first. :rolleyes:

The VP30 does not have the AB102 addon. Will the AB102 card help the cadence lock playback? I doubt it as the VP30 still runs in the correct 3/2 pulldown mode with the stutter Output.Was there supposed to be some logic here? You're claiming that a different deinterlacing solution will have no effect on the ability of the unit to lock to a 3:2 pulldown cadence. Right. . .

My question is, does the VP30 really supports a perfect cadence locked playback with a 480i 3/2 source to a 24/48 Output?

And if the VP30 can not do a perfect 24/48 output cadence lock, will the newer VP50/pro fully support the feature?My question is: What is the purpose of this post? It would appear to be nothing more than a (fairly blatant) attempt at slamming a competitor's product. It might be more effective if it weren't so laden with inaccuracies and misinformation. Example: Why would you assume that a product with a different deinterlacing solution and different frame rate conversion hardware would behave the same way?

Li On

www.pixelmagicsystems.comWell, at least you're upfront about the fact that you work for a competitor. Nice job on casually slipping in a link to that competitor's website, by the way.

- Dale Adams

Hi Dale, nice to see your reply. But... why the "attitude"? Are you asleep or someone stole your account? :p

Yes, you are correct with the "power" LED status. Blue simply means the VP30 is processing the input signal. Nothing to say the current deinterlacing mode. Though my good old iScan Plus V2 does has a Blue 3/2 mode LED! I suggest to show the detail deinterlacing mode maybe in the "Information" page.

And maybe (should) the AB102 improve the 3/2 deinterlace but I'm talking a normal blockbuster hollywood movie DVD here so the source should be good in the first place.

From your "ranting" I get that the VP50 has a different (improved?) frame rate conversion but I'm not talking 50Hz-60Hz conversion, only 3/2 interlaced input with a 24/48 locked output. Well, anyway, if you say it does, it does!

So where am I? Is there anything else in your reply that can solve my issue?

More detail on the subject. A good test clip is Ron's moving bar 3/2 test pattern clip in this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=8026006&postcount=71). I just checked and the file is still there. I use the pulldownjudder.ts pattern as it's in 60i with 3/2 pattern. I reencoded the clip to 480i DVD to play on a standalone. In 60Hz Output, the VP30 (as well as other deinterlacers) processes the clip in the correct 3/2 pulldown (as far as I can tell!), always. No problem whatsoever here because it's a simple 3/2 pattern.

But in 24/48 locked Output, the playback will randomly "stutter". And if the stutter occur, it will stutter til the end of the clip (around 30seconds). During the playback of the 30seconds clip, simply "pause" and play the clip can make the stutter come and go randomly.

And the problem is not limited to this test pattern. As I said in the first post, simply keep repeating a DVD movie chapter can make the stutter come and go. And of course the same movie plays perfectly fine in the correct 3/2 pulldown with a 60Hz output.

Besides the perfect test pattern and those close to perfect hollywood movie, I also tried some worse source such as a concert DVD filmed in 24p but encoded in 60i with every scene change with a cadence break. With such source the VP30 will randomly stutter on a scene cut till the other scene cut the playback may back to smooth, then break again in the next scene.

I tried 2 projectors (Sony VW50 for 24/48, projectiondesign 1080p for 48) and a Benq 24" monitor for 48hz. All the display devices show the VP30 internal motion test bar perfectly fine in 48Hz so I think it's not a display device issue.

I also searched this long thread before I posted but didn't find much info on the subject.

If there is something wrong in my test or setting on the VP30, please help! If I should try the VP50 instead, I will.

Thanks in advance.

regards,

Li On

PS: about that web link, from now on I'll disable that "Automatically parse links in text" option. It's not my flaw that the system has it On by default!

www.pixelmagicsystems.com

Hi Dale, nice to see your reply. But... why the "attitude"?The "attitude" comes from the fact that your whole post appeared to be designed to lead up to the following comment:

And if the VP30 can not do a perfect 24/48 output cadence lock, will the newer VP50/pro fully support the feature?If all you're really concerned about is getting this to work with the VP30, why cast aspersions on the (as yet unknown) capabilities of the VP50 Pro, an as yet unreleased product which just happens to be a competitor to your company's Crystalio II? What's the motivation for doing this in the VP30 thread?

I get that the VP50 has a different (improved?) frame rate conversion but I'm not talking 50Hz-60Hz conversion, only 3/2 interlaced input with a 24/48 locked output.The output of the 504 deinterlacer in the VP30 is 60 Hz. How do you suppose that gets transformed to 24 Hz? (A similar process is used in the VP50.)

- Dale Adams

The "attitude" comes from the fact that your whole post appeared to be designed to lead up to the following comment:

You're giving way much credit to my poor English writing. I posted my question as a simple user and nothing more. I don't think my wording is too out of the line after tested the subject over the weekend but didn't quit get the result I expected. If you must know, the reason is because I've been PM a member for a used VP30 for personal usage (my salary is limited too!). But I can't really say that, can I? :p

Anyway, if there is anything in my post that may cause you to think otherwise, it's NOT my intention. If you insist, I apology.

If all you're really concerned about is getting this to work with the VP30, why cast aspersions on the (as yet unknown) capabilities of the VP50 Pro, an as yet unreleased product which just happens to be a competitor to your company's Crystalio II? What's the motivation for doing this in the VP30 thread?

Again, you're reading too much between the line. I still think it's a valid reference on the subject. And a simple "Yes" should answer that question.

The output of the 504 deinterlacer in the VP30 is 60 Hz. How do you suppose that gets transformed to 24 Hz? (A similar process is used in the VP50.)

I don't suppose I know the inner detail. And your point is?

Seriously, can we get back to my issue? Anyone else running 480i film source Input and 24/48 locked Output?

regards,

Li On

www.pixelmagicsystems.com

Li On - I guess you're right that I was reading too much into your post. This probably comes from spending too much time in the HD optical disc area of the forum, as there's an enormous amount of politicking, spreading of misinformation, and spin control going on there. I apologize for misreading your post. It appeared to me to be more of the same type of thing I was seeing in other forum areas, but apparently I was wrong. Again, my apologies.

Seriously, can we get back to my issue? Anyone else running 480i film source Input and 24/48 locked Output?The last iScan video processor on which I tested the 504 deinterlacer with a locked 48 Hz output was the HD+. That had a fairly stable 48 Hz output when used with a good quality source. I say 'fairly stable' here simply because the stability of the 60 Hz to 48 Hz conversion depends on the reliability of the deinterlacer's lock on the 3:2 cadence. The 504 was pretty decent in this respect, but it did occasionally have some problems. [Note that the HD+ did not support a 24 Hz locked output format.]

To the best of my knowledge, the VP30 has the same hardware as the iScan HD+ for conversion of 3:2 pulldown, so I would expect it to behave similarly with a locked 48 Hz output. I've never tested it myself, though.

I have looked at the locked 48 Hz output with an ABT102 card. With a good quality source it worked well in the tests that I performed. Like any deinterlacer, there were cases when it dropped out of lock on the 3:2 cadence. When that happened there could be momentary stutters during the transition to and from the lock state. (The HD+ showed similar behavior when this happened.) The stutter did not always happen as it was dependent on the particular phase of the 3:2 sequence and the 48 Hz output timing at that instant. Again, the stutter should only last for a small fraction of a second as the iScan adjusted to the new lock status.

I never looked at or tested 24 Hz locked output on the VP30 with either the 504 or the ABT102 deinterlacer, so I can't comment on that. It wouldn't surprise me to find that there might be problems with 24 Hz locked output, as I suspect it wasn't well tested due to the lack of displays capable of supporting 24 Hz input at the time the VP30 was introduced.

What you describe sounds abnormal to me for locked 48 Hz output. It actually sounds a lot like a problem that occurred during the iScan HD+ development when the hardware was programmed incorrectly. When that happened, the iScan would get into a mode where it would produce a 3:1 frame repetition pattern instead of the desired 2:2. This would happen randomly during acquisition of lock, and would continue until the 504 lost and then reacquired lock on the 3:2 cadence.

I don't recall hearing about such a case with the VP30, though. Have you contacted DVDO tech support to see if they have any knowledge of a problem like this? If it's anything like the problem I saw on the HD+ (which has since been fixed, by the way) it should be relatively easy to replicate in the lab and to fix.

Unfortunately, I don't have a VP30 here at home so I can't run a quick test to see if I can duplicate what you're seeing.

- Dale Adams

LOL! Indeed I also felt if we're in the HDM forum! :) I checked the VP50Pro thread and there seems some "heat" in it! I can see why my casual mention the VP50Pro may cuase the wrong impression. I've no ill intention at all. Sorry again for any confusion!

If the 480i film source to a (used) VP30 outputs in 24/48 locked works stable, that would be the cheapest way to get judder free DVD playback as I now have a display the Sony VW50 which fully supports 24/48 input.

Anyone else with a 24/48 capable display please try some test on the subject. Find a DVD chapter starting with a panning motion, and keep repeating the chapter to check if the motion will stutter randomly. On the other hand, it's seems the iScan may act randomly from some user comment so it maybe just the one I tested has some issue...

Dale, it'd be great if you can test the issue on a VP50. If that works fine I may need to up my budget a little bit!

regards,

Li On

www.pixelmagicsystems.com

I've tried both, bitstream and PCM over HDMI both fails. Over optical/coax I get the DTS 5.1 downmix, and that sounds nice, but I shoud get multichannel pcm if I understand everything correctly. I'll try the 1.14 firmware, hope that helps.

The 1.14 firmware is installed, but my problems are the same. I can get uncompressed SACD and DVD-Audio over HDMI from the Pioneer DV-600 by turning pass through on. That the picture also is passed through is no problem, I don't need the VP30 to do anything with the simple DVD-A menus, the sound is the important part here. The Onkyo TX-SR 805 is a huge step up from my former receiver, so I'm very happy with the sound quality.

Playing DVDs on the 600 also works fine with pass through turned off, the VP30 handles DD and DTS compressed sound just fine. I leave the upscaling of DVDs to the VP30 as well, looks way better than letting the 600 do it.

I still have to choose between picture and sound on HD-DVD sources from the Toshiba HD-E1. With pass through on I get uncompressed multichannel PCM over HDMI from the DD+ tracks, but the picture is disapointing. Turning pass through off gives me a very nice picture, but then I only get a down sampeled DTS sound track, and only over coax. The 805 does a good job on DTS decoding, and again, way better than my old receiver, but the uncompressed PCM sounds better still. I can live with DTS, but not with the pass throughed pictures, so pass through stays off.

Any hope that the HD sound formats, including SACD and DVD-Audio, will be handled better in a furture firmware? It seems like the VP30 understands some of them, but fails in talking to the 805 in some way. The 805 just says no signal most of the time when the VP30 is fed with HD sound formats. Both the 600 and the 805 support DSD and DVD-A over HDMI, as the VP30 handles HDMI 1.1/1.2 it should too, or am I mistaken here?

My HD+ won't let me process a 1080i 60hz signal from my Toshiba HD A2 HD-DVD player via HDMI>DVI into the iScan HD+. Frankly, the de-interlacing is ok for me. I just want the ability to send an HDMI signal into a DVDO video processor and use the aspect ratio vertical stretch function for use with 2.35:1 HD-DVD's and my anamorphic lens.

Is the VP30 able to do this for me? Can the VP30 take a 1080i HDMI input from a Toshiba HD-DVD player and do the vertical stretch on it for me? Does anybody have an iScan VP30 performing the vertical stretch on an HDMI output (or component?) of an HD-DVD player like the Toshiba HD-A2?

EDIT-Fixed the issue with Toshiba A2 firmware update see below.

thanks,

P.S. Also, how does the de-interlacing/scaling of the VP30 compare to the HD+ and how does the ABT card compare to both? Not a major concern, just a curiosity. I don't need any improvements in de-interlacing/scaling at the moment as the HD+ de-interlacing is adequate. Just curious about the potential improvements.

Anybody? Does your VP30 accept HDMI from Toshiba HD-A2 and do vertical stretch and output to a projector like the Epson TW1000 and work ok?

EDIT - Fixed my issues between my Tosh A2 and iScan HD+ with a firmware update for the Toshiba HD-A2. Odds are there should be no problems with the VP30 since it's HDMI.

Josh,
The Beta Software update (v1.14) for VP30 was released on June 18th. Is there any plan to do a production release in the near future?

Regards

I am running the VP30 with the latest beta firmware. I have seen the slower response to the remote but wonder if anyone has seen this issue? When we switch from the VCR input to one of the HDMI inputs, often the colors look overly saturated with white. I've found the sure way to fix it is to power everything off and back on with the HDMI input as the source.

Is there a setting in the VP30 that I can use to prevent this?

Our equipment:
VP30 w/1.14b firmware
Samsung HLP-4674W: HDMI in from VP30
Scientific Atlanta 8300HD: HDMI / coax to VP30
Oppo DV971H: DVI-to-HDMI / coax to VP30
JVC VCR: Composite video / analog audio to VP30
Rotel RSX-1057: coax in from VP30

As of now, are there any audio dropout problems on coax or toslink with the latest firmware?

Although I fixed the problems with my HD+ and Tosh HD-A2, I'd still like to upgrade, but, I think the VP50 is not neccessary at the moment, especially if I can find a VP30+ABT102 for a decent price. The VP30 has nice video de-interlacing and HDMI so I may go with a VP30 w/ ABT102 for now.

As of now, are there any audio dropout problems on coax or toslink with the latest firmware?


Yes, there are.

Yes, there are.

Ok. I thought the problems with audio dropouts were limited to the HDMI output. I would be inputting and outputting digital coax/toslink and not using any HDMI audio.

Ok. I thought the problems with audio dropouts were limited to the HDMI output. I would be inputting and outputting digital coax/toslink and not using any HDMI audio.

With HDMI audio, I haven't experienced any problems.

Ok. Are the majority of complaints that people have made regarding audio issues (dropouts etc) to do with coax/toslink or HDMI? Or are they with both?

Hi all - I have the following components in my AV setup:

Panasonic plasmaTH-50PX75U (1366 x 768 native)
Toshiba HD-DVD
DirecTV HD

With this setup, would the VP30 do the trick? Id rather not spend the extra $$$$ for a VP50 if I dont have to.

Thx

I have all my audio going through non-HDMI inputs and have had no dropouts with the 1.11 firmware. I can't speak to the latest, I'm afraid.

-John

Ok. I'm still deciding whether or not to get a VP30+ABT102 or either of the VP50 or VP50Pro. Not sure what all the differences are worth. Now that I've fixed the one big problem I had with the HD+ it's hard to justify upgrading at the moment. I would like to upgrade from the HD+ to at least the VP30+ABT102 for the change over to HDMI and the better video de-interlacing. I wonder, would the better video de-interlacing would make TV dvd's look better?

Josh,
The Beta Software update (v1.14) for VP30 was released on June 18th. Is there any plan to do a production release in the near future?

Regards

It's here!! I will be testing it next weekend.

I wonder what is the difference to the previous beta?

So do I! :)

me too

They are exactly the same (Beta v1.14 and Production v1.14). The only difference is the label. All Production versions go through Beta testing, prior to becoming Production, and based on the feedback on v1.14 we feel that it is better than the previous production version in all respects.

They are exactly the same (Beta v1.14 and Production v1.14). The only difference is the label. All Production versions go through Beta testing, prior to becoming Production, and based on the feedback on v1.14 we feel that it is better than the previous production version in all respects.

So, audio dropouts are still there.... :confused:

So, audio dropouts are still there.... :confused:

With what source?

Which AV Receiver are you using?

In the system that I have the VP30/ABT102 connected I am exoeriencing NO dropouts from my Oppo 970 and my HD-TiVo. I am using a Harmon Kardon AV receiver in this setup.

With what source?

Which AV Receiver are you using?

In the system that I have the VP30/ABT102 connected I am exoeriencing NO dropouts from my Oppo 970 and my HD-TiVo. I am using a Harmon Kardon AV receiver in this setup.

Josh, thanks for your answer.

My surround processor is a TAG Mclaren AV32R Bp192.
Sources are:
- Pioneer 696 DVD Player
- PS3
- Oppo 981HD SDI modified.

The Pioneer 696 and the PS3 work perfectly if audio goes through HDMI in. Haven't tested the Oppo through HDMI.

Using coaxial or optical inputs, then I have audio dropouts with all sources.

Please, contact Aaron as he is aware of the situation. Also, would be receptive to test any firmware you could come up with to solve this.

Josh,
Some people earlier reported that the remote response detoriated when they installed 1.14 Beta. Did you observe the same in your setup?

Regards

I can confirm that the remote response has deteriorated with 1.14. I installed an earlier version of the firmware and remote response was good no matter where I pointed the remote from 5 feet away. I reinstalled 1.14 and now I have to point the remote right at the VP30 and sometimes have to push the button a couple of times.

thanks.

I feel as though the issues with the audio with HDMI has been resolved. I also use the PS3, Comcast Motorola Box, and Oppo 970 through HDMI and have no issues. It's too bad that a few still have issues with coax and Toslink. My Toshiba is using analogs directly to receiver and PC is also direct to receiver so there is no issues of course there either.

Is there anyone out there that is still experiencing issue through HDMI?

I feel as though the issues with the audio with HDMI has been resolved. I also use the PS3, Comcast Motorola Box, and Oppo 970 through HDMI and have no issues. It's too bad that a few still have issues with coax and Toslink. My Toshiba is using analogs directly to receiver and PC is also direct to receiver so there is no issues of course there either.

Is there anyone out there that is still experiencing issue through HDMI?

I don't have any dropouts, but I can't get the hi-def sound formats to work without using pass-through. SACD and DVD-Audio should work with HDMI 1.1/1.2 and deliver uncompressed multi channel PCM over HDMI, but I get no sound signal. Multi ch. PCM from my HD-DVD player must be down sampled and compressed to DTS to get any sound at all, I would be great if it was possible to do something with this! Maybe Josh knows if this is possible?

I've had some other issues with 1.14, my remote is horrible and yesterday I had to do a factory reset because the VP30 lagged and messed up aspect ratios (got black bars and half the picture was off-screen). But for the most part 1.14 seems stable to me, the remote have allways been bad, but can't say I notice any worsening compared to earlier versions.

I'm running 1.14 and I still have drop outs when using component or s-video with optical and coax audio. They don't last long but they are very numerous. I can't use my HDMI because I loose all audio after about 10 minutes of use. I reported it to DVDO a few weeks ago and have not heard a word.

I am running 1.14 but do not use the audio path through the VP30, I use my Denon to provide the lip sync correction. So far I have not seen any video issues via HDMI 1080P60 to my BenQ W10000 with this release, and the remote sensitivity is exactly the same as the earlier versions.

Regards

Paul

I am running 1.13 on the vp30 with A LG BH100 and A pioneer 969(59)AVI dvd player. both players are connected exclusively with HDMI to my vp30, I do not get any audio dropouts at all.

I am running 1.13 on the vp30 with A LG BH100 and A pioneer 969(59)AVI dvd player. both players are connected exclusively with HDMI to my vp30, I do not get any audio dropouts at all.

True, I also don't experience dropouts through HDMI, only through coaxial or optical.

I have all my audio going through non-HDMI inputs and have had no dropouts with the 1.11 firmware. I can't speak to the latest, I'm afraid.

True, I also don't experience dropouts through HDMI, only through coaxial or optical.

Are dropouts occurring only when coaxial/optical are used as outputs, inputs, or both?

It seems that HDMI in to HDMI out results in no dropouts. Just trying to get my head around what to expect. I only route video through my VP30, but my setup will be changing soon, and I'd like to run audio through as well.

Are dropouts occurring only when coaxial/optical are used as outputs, inputs, or both?

It seems that HDMI in to HDMI out results in no dropouts. Just trying to get my head around what to expect. I only route video through my VP30, but my setup will be changing soon, and I'd like to run audio through as well.

Audio out from the VP30 is coaxial, always. My surround processor doesn't have HDMI inputs.

With HDMI audio in, there's no droupout.

With coaxial or optical input, it has dropouts.

Audio out from the VP30 is coaxial, always. My surround processor doesn't have HDMI inputs.

With HDMI audio in, there's no droupout.

With coaxial or optical input, it has dropouts.

This is very helpful, my receiver does not have HDMI inputs either.

Thanks!

This is very helpful, my receiver does not have HDMI inputs either.

Thanks!

Anyway, it seems that the problem is in the VP30's coaxial and optical inputs.

Hi guys!
Just got this weird problem.
I acquired a Tvix 5100SH media streamer today. Flashed it to latest beta (1.2.25). Enjoyed beautiful 480i/576i output from the unit into my VP30+ABT102... for a while...
No idea why what happened next. The tvix crashed/hanged after I tried to play a DVD-image with Mpg1 audio (that is one of the things they broke when adding new functionality). After power-cycling the VP30 wouldn't accept 480i at all. All I get is a green light.
The tvix is outputting a 480i signal (as I connected it to my PJ, and it indicated 720x480i (and looked really bad...hehe)), but as mentioned the VP30 is not doing anything. 480p/720p etc as outputs are fine.
When trying the EDID-setting I get VGA-60Hz (it used to be 1080i-60Hz before the crash). The tvix even made a tiny EDID_FAILED.ted file on my PC. I can add it if useful to anyone.
I have tried an earlier firmware, no good, and back to the latest, still no good.
The passthru function is also turned off (In fact when turned on I get a 720x480i picture on my PJ so it do seems like the tvix is sending out the interlaced signal).

So I'm at a loss here... any ideas what I can try next?

Thanks!

M.

Are dropouts occurring only when coaxial/optical are used as outputs, inputs, or both?

It seems that HDMI in to HDMI out results in no dropouts. Just trying to get my head around what to expect. I only route video through my VP30, but my setup will be changing soon, and I'd like to run audio through as well.

In my case it's all coax/optical in and out for audio, and no drop-outs with the 1.11 firmware. So no HDMI audio = no dropouts for me at least.

I did notice some pops/clicks during last weeks SNL but that was reported by others in a Nashville Comcast thread for other NBC shows so it probably isn't the VP30.

-John

In my case it's all coax/optical in and out for audio, and no drop-outs with the 1.11 firmware. So no HDMI audio = no dropouts for me at least.

I did notice some pops/clicks during last weeks SNL but that was reported by others in a Nashville Comcast thread for other NBC shows so it probably isn't the VP30.

-John

In my case, 1.11, 1.13 and 1.14 Beta have audio dropouts.

I just updated to the v1.14 software and I now have some problems that I am sure are user errors, but I just cannot figure out on my own.:o

All worked fine before the software update except I kept getting a distracting horizontal line across the image about 20% up from the bottom. I don't know the cause of this.

Now however, after the software update, I can only get an image from either source by turning on the pass-through.

Whenever I turn the pass-through off, the projector input says “no reg” and gives me a blue screen. I do have sound via the VP30 for what that worth, and the remote seems fine too.

But how do I get the VP30 to process anything and still give an image to my projector?:confused:

I have two sources, a Denon 5910 (outputting via HDMI @ 720P) and a Comcast Motorola HD cable box (I thought outputting 720P too, but now I think it is 1080i).

Both sources input via HDMI to the iScan VP30 (the cable using a DVI/HDMI adapter).

My display is a Sharp XV-Z10000U 720P DLP projector and I’m inputting to it via the DVI input with an HDMI/DVI adapter at the VP30.


Like I said, everything worked fine before and I was several versions old. I had audio drop-outs, but they weren’t that bad.

This situation though is very frustrating. Basically the VP30 is nothing more than a big HDMI switcher for me right now.:confused:

Can anyone help?

Please...

dave7 -
#1 Do a Factory Default (Configuration->Factory Default->Yes)
#2 Set the Output Format to 720p (Output Setup->Format->720p-60)
#3 Make sure that the projector is in the correct aspect ratio mode that bypasses any internal processing. To do this bring up the "Checkerboard" test pattern (Configuration->Test Patterns->Checkerboard) and cycle through the aspect ratio modes on the projector to find the one where you can actually see a checkerboard on screen. Note that if you are using keystone correction, you will want to turn that off for this step.
#4 Turn off the test pattern and check the inputs to see if you need to add any Overscan to either source (Input Adjust->Overscan).

Here is how to optimal set up your Motorola STB:
Put the STB in standby by pushing the Standby button on the Comcast remote or by simply hitting the Power button on the front panel of the cable box.
Push the Menu button to enter the “User Settings” menu
Ensure that:
o “TV Type” is set to 16:9
o“YPbPr Output” to “1080i”
o“4:3 Override” to “480i”

I took my optical audio out of the mix and now I don't loose audio on HDMI when watching TV. I'm still experiencing very short but very numerous audio dropouts when viewing DVD's over component using coaxial audio. DVD video quality is great but the audio dropouts almost ruin a movie. I'd really like to see this fixed.

That's exactly what I'm experiencing.

I guess I'll email DVDO again about this issue.

I am having what looks to be an HDCP issue since updating to the latest firmware. Whenever I switch to my Oppo 970HD source(HDMI 1), I get a black screen. (I do get a solid blue light though.) I have been successful in fixing the problem by switching HDCP off and on a few times. It may also be true that power cycling the VP30 has resolved the issue on one occasion. Anyone else see anything like this?

Jack - Which software did you have before updating it?

I am having what looks to be an HDCP issue since updating to the latest firmware. Whenever I switch to my Oppo 970HD source(HDMI 1), I get a black screen. (I do get a solid blue light though.) I have been successful in fixing the problem by switching HDCP off and on a few times. It may also be true that power cycling the VP30 has resolved the issue on one occasion. Anyone else see anything like this?
Jack_T,

I see the same thing, mostly with our 8300HD. I get audio but a black screen on the default channel (480i) when the 8300HD powers up and the VP30 switches to it. It is easily fixed for me by switching to an HD channel, like ESPN-HD. Then the video is okay no matter which channel is selected, SD or HD.

We have HDMI from the 8300HD to the VP30 for video and an optical cable for the audio (I've been switching between HDMI and the optical cable for audio to see which works better in our setup - we get pops on some channels that carry sporting events when they are not broadcast on the local channels, but only when there is nothing but a blue screen or schedule displayed).

The VP30 output is HDMI to a Samsung HL-P4674W and coax to a receiver.

I have been running v1.14 since it came out in beta.

Carlos

Jack_T,

I see the same thing, mostly with our 8300HD. I get audio but a black screen on the default channel (480i) when the 8300HD powers up and the VP30 switches to it. It is easily fixed for me by switching to an HD channel, like ESPN-HD. Then the video is okay no matter which channel is selected, SD or HD.

We have HDMI from the 8300HD to the VP30 for video and an optical cable for the audio (I've been switching between HDMI and the optical cable for audio to see which works better in our setup - we get pops on some channels that carry sporting events when they are not broadcast on the local channels, but only when there is nothing but a blue screen or schedule displayed).

The VP30 output is HDMI to a Samsung HL-P4674W and coax to a receiver.

I have been running v1.14 since it came out in beta.

Carlos

I occasionally see that with the STB as well, and switching over to an HD station fixes it. This is very infrequent though.

Funny thing is, switching to 720p or 1080i output on the DVD player does NOT similarly fix the black screen. (But as I said before, toggling HDCP seems to.)

Jack - Which software did you have before updating it?

The next most recent one, whatever that was. I have always updated with the latest firmware as I become aware of it.

I occasionally see that with the STB as well, and switching over to an HD station fixes it. This is very infrequent though.

Funny thing is, switching to 720p or 1080i output on the DVD player does NOT similarly fix the black screen. (But as I said before, toggling HDCP seems to.)
We have an Oppo DV-971H but have not seen the same problem. Sorry I couldn't help.

Jack_TWe have HDMI from the 8300HD to the VP30 for video and an optical cable for the audio (I've been switching between HDMI and the optical cable for audio to see which works better in our setup - we get pops on some channels that carry sporting events when they are not broadcast on the local channels, but only when there is nothing but a blue screen or schedule displayed).

The VP30 output is HDMI to a Samsung HL-P4674W and coax to a receiver.

I have been running v1.14 since it came out in beta.

Carlos

Do the pops occur when you are using HDMI or optical for audio?

Okay, you forced my hand. I went and tested every combination (I think). First the setup:

STB: Scientific Atlanta 8300HD, HDMI to VP30 for video.
Receiver: Rotel RSX-1057, connected to VP30 with Coax

We have two Brighthouse channels that transmit sporting events in HD when they are not shown on other HD channels (BHN HD Sports 1 and 2). When they are displaying a blue screen or schedule we sometimes hear pops. I decided to try every combination of audio out settings and digital cables from the STB to the VP30.

Here are the results:

STB Audio Output VP30 Audio Input RSX-1057 Display Result
HDMI HDMI, Non-PCM Flashing Silent
Coax, Unknown Steady Pops
Optical, Unknown Steady Pops
Dolby HDMI, Non-PCM Flashing Silent
Coax, Unknown Steady Pops
Optical, Unknown Steady Pops
Other (PCM) HDMI, Non-PCM Flashing Silent
Coax, PCM 48 kHz Steady Silent
Optical, PCM 48 kHz Steady Silent

The STB Audio Output was set with Audio Digital Out option on the Settings menu. The VP30 Audio Input was set with the Input Adjust menu, then read from Configuration > Information. The RSX-1057 displays the Surround mode and digital input port and source. "Flashing" means these parameters were flashing. "Steady" means the input port displayed steadily and the Surround mode scrolled across the display then the source (Video) displayed steadily.

My results were no pops when the HDMI cable was the audio source. Also, no pops when the STB was set to output PCM. For now, I decided to set the STB to PCM out and set the VP30 to use the coax input for audio.

Carlos

Hi Carlos,

So if I understand your chart and settings correctly, you have opted to receive PCM only from your SA8300. Is the PCM signal 2-ch only? I've always had my 8300 set to Dolby, so my assumption is that it does a downmix to 2-ch, not output 5.1 as PCM.

If my assumption about how the PCM output of the 8300 is correct, why not just run component video from the 8300 to the VP30, and connect its coax or optical output directly to your receiver? This takes the VP30 completely out of the audio loop and you don't need to worry about dropouts.

I'll take it under advisement. Thanks.

I can confirm that the remote response has deteriorated with 1.14. I installed an earlier version of the firmware and remote response was good no matter where I pointed the remote from 5 feet away. I reinstalled 1.14 and now I have to point the remote right at the VP30 and sometimes have to push the button a couple of times.

thanks.


Currently using v1.13, and to tell you the truth the remote reception has always been quite mediocre, wish dvdo would come up with a simple hardware solution.
It's annoying when you use even a powerful ir transmitting diode like the one on the Pronto remote, which can normally be pointed most anywhere (I switch my rear subwoofers by reflection...) and find the scaler hasn't switched on with the rest of the gear...
I'm pretty sure it can't be remedied by software.

Will there be a firmware update for hdmi 1.3 ?
Pretty sure I saw something on the subject, couldn't find it though, sorry...

Will there be a firmware update for hdmi 1.3 ?HDMI v1.3 requires a hardware change which would physically replace the HDMI receiver and transmitter chips. It's not just a firmware change, although new firmware would be required even if the HDMI chips were changed. I am not aware of any plans that ABT might have to produce a new version (or an upgrade to) the VP30 which includes HDMI v1.3. The only upgrade path right now to HDMI v1.3 is to upgrade to the VP50Pro.

- Dale Adams

Hi Carlos,

So if I understand your chart and settings correctly, you have opted to receive PCM only from your SA8300. Is the PCM signal 2-ch only? I've always had my 8300 set to Dolby, so my assumption is that it does a downmix to 2-ch, not output 5.1 as PCM.

If my assumption about how the PCM output of the 8300 is correct, why not just run component video from the 8300 to the VP30, and connect its coax or optical output directly to your receiver? This takes the VP30 completely out of the audio loop and you don't need to worry about dropouts.
I looked into this while on travel this week and think I understand better what I was seeing on my equipment. When I select Other (PCM), the 8300HD is sending 2-channel PCM and my receiver displays "Dolby PL II" plus the default decoding mode. I did not understand that the receiver is using Dolby Pro Logic II to process the 2-channel signal into a surround mode.

I've gone back to "Dolby" on the 8300HD and will stay with the coax between the 8300HD and VP30. I have not had problems with audio dropouts except for those two HD channels when no sporting events are playing. Now I see "Dolby Digital" displayed on the receiver (and on the VP30) when channels except the problem ones are selected on the 8300HD.

I'll monitor the performance. If I see problems I may do as you suggest. I just thought I could send all video and audio from my components to the VP30 and have one cable out to the TV and one to the receiver. Would I have issues with lip-synching if I sent audio directly from the components to the receiver? Thanks for your help.

Would I have issues with lip-synching if I sent audio directly from the components to the receiver?

Most likely. In my setup, I'm able to compensate for the VP30's delay by adjusting the audio delay in my receiver, works great! When I get some time, I want to get another coax cable so I can put the VP30 in the audio loop as well. I'm curious if I'll suffer from dropouts. My motivation is low though since my setup works great right now.

Just put my Panasonic PT-AE2000U up and my VP30 won't sync HDMI with it. I have tried powering it off, unplugging, starting the projector after unplugging, basically every combo you can think of and all I get is a flashing blue screen that will go black, blue, and sometime show the VP30 menu for only a split second. and then back to flashing. The led on the VP 30 will sometimes stay blue and others flash blue. Projector works fine if hooked directly to the HDMI source.
Emailing DVDO about the problem. Is this a HDMI 1.3 problem?

Hi,

I use component1 (tried component2 also) to feed VP30 RGBs from my Topfield digibox. I see some bad analog looking interference when digibox displays all black picture. I do not see this if try using YUV from the same digibox but image has a very bad red push so I cannot use that either. I have tried it with two Topfields and I also checked the cable with a meter and all seemed to be connected ok. Anybody else noticed any problems using RGBs in VP30?

Just put my Panasonic PT-AE2000U up and my VP30 won't sync HDMI with it. I have tried powering it off, unplugging, starting the projector after unplugging, basically every combo you can think of and all I get is a flashing blue screen that will go black, blue, and sometime show the VP30 menu for only a split second. and then back to flashing. The led on the VP 30 will sometimes stay blue and others flash blue. Projector works fine if hooked directly to the HDMI source.
Emailing DVDO about the problem. Is this a HDMI 1.3 problem?
First off you should make shore that you have HDCP set to "on " in the input and output menu,s of the VP30 if you dont the VP30 will not alow HDMI to be sent to your projector. The picture will show for A few second's and then the picture (curtains) will close and the blue light will flash on the front panel of the VP30. If that does not work check your HDMI cables for A proper connection, Are you running A HDMI cable to your projector or HDMI-DVI ??....

All the HDCP features are on for HDMI and I have tried them off also. The VP30 was hooked to a PT-AE900U by the same HDMI cable before the switch and it worked flawless.(No changes to the system at all except the PT-AE2000U) I have seen the issue you are talking about where the VP30 shows the screen and then closes the curtain when I switch to my Cable STB on the old setup with 900U. This is nothing like that. The picture flashes and the projector tries to sync but can't.

I think I have some of the older firmwares and will try an older version to see if it works.

You could try dropping the output resolution too. I had to do that to get my computer to sync with my BenQ projector.
Warren.

Hi,

I use component1 (tried component2 also) to feed VP30 RGBs from my Topfield digibox. I see some bad analog looking interference when digibox displays all black picture. I do not see this if try using YUV from the same digibox but image has a very bad red push so I cannot use that either. I have tried it with two Topfields and I also checked the cable with a meter and all seemed to be connected ok. Anybody else noticed any problems using RGBs in VP30?

IMO this can only be caused by an outside field, try taking the Tops from the rack and see what happens.
IThe TF isn't well screened- I once had it on top of an Arcam receiver which produced hum bars.
Also you should have a good (preferably double screened cable).
My TF5510 produces a very good image thr YUV, no colour issues at all.
That said, I do prefer hdmi- my TF7700HDTVR has it and will arrive on Tuesday.

IMO this can only be caused by an outside field, try taking the Tops from the rack and see what happens.
IThe TF isn't well screened- I once had it on top of an Arcam receiver which produced hum bars.
Also you should have a good (preferably double screened cable).
My TF5510 produces a very good image thr YUV, no colour issues at all.
That said, I do prefer hdmi- my TF7700HDTVR has it and will arrive on Tuesday.

I made another cable and no change. I took the Toppy to another location and no help. I'm using Tasker cable currently, what cable would be double screened?

Does the VP30's passthrough feature support 1080p24?

Well, VP50 got a new firmware this week....

Josh, anything for the VP30?

Does anybody have 1.11 version of the sw, so I could verify that VP30 has nothing to do with the problem?

Hi guys

This is my first post on AVS, greetings from across the pond.

Been having some picture problems with the outputs from my dvdo vp30+abt102

I am running from dvdo vp3o plus abt 102 card via analogue component to a sim2 ht330e. The VP30 hdmi output also serves a 50" fujitsu 58 series plasma.


When I was setting up the projector on Saturday the sky plus (satellite box) feed via dvdo and region 2 dvds were fine , but when I put on region 1 dvd's initially, the bottom 20% of the picture was covered with a grey/ green border including a still frame from part of the dvd picture. The dvdo is
out putting 720p, locked to 50hz, unlocked 60hz to 59.95hz.

This was not an issue on the s video feed to the sim2 so I assume this
is a dvdo vp30 issue

When I played around with the settings to try and get rid of the
masking,the picture suddenly shifted to the right with 25% screen blank
on the left and a green vertical border running up the side of the left
edge of the screen. Further changing of inputs backwards and forward, turning on/off dvd payer projector etc produced same problems or image to left. Last night trying the same thing, the whole image went pink?

No matter what I did (change ouput resolution, timings, colour space,
underscan, overscan, projector inputs etc) or playing with the projector controls, I
couldn't get this to go back to normal. Once I eject the R1 dvd the menu
screen on the marantz dv9500 gos back to normal aspect.

This has happened loads of times so no a glitch i suppose.


Is this a handshanking issue although please note all connections into
the dvdo are analogue no hdmi inputs.

Also the HDMI output from the vp30 is connected to a fujitsu 58 series 50" screen (720p). Again with region 1 DVD's i get a bad juddering of the image (strobing) of the image when any movement is involved

the setings for HDMI output to the plasma is 720p or 1080i, both the same issue really. Checking test pattens i get a visual interference on the screen for the checkerboard, horizontal and vertical test pattens on 720p better on 1080i

I checked a direct feed to the plasma and the motion judder gos away so this is vp30 at fault??

I am running v 1.11 software, did have v 1.13 but had loads of picture issues with that.

I was going to load version 1.14 to see if that makes any difference, but was hoping someone out there may know what the issues are:confused:

Please help someone

Is it normal that you can't change the timings for 1080p output?
I noticed the 1080p image on my Panny HD plasma left quite a few pixels out horizontally as well as vertically.
But changing the figures does not really affect the pic, like changing the HOR FORMAT WIDTH upwards or downwards.

I noticed the VP menu's get awfully small when I set the output to my Panny HD plasma to 1080p, while they appear normal on 1080i output format.

What is the best choice for PQ:
Outputting 1080i and letting the TH42-PV70E do the deinterlacing, or setting the VP30 to 1080P ?
I noticed only the VP50 Pro has special processing for HD.

Thanks!

To Josh:

From another thread in this forum:
We have no intention of releasing any more versions of software for the VP20 or VP30. Do I understand correctly that the VP30 (and VP20) is currently unsupported, and maybe considered an end-of-life product? I had the impression that the whole VP line was still in active support?

That was Josh's response to a post of mine, and yes, it seems like so... You'll probably get support to problems that could arise, but there won't be any software updates.

Don't know what to do right now.

That was Josh's response to a post of mine, and yes, it seems like so... You'll probably get support to problems that could arise, but there won't be any software updates.

Don't know what to do right now.

Shame on Anchor Bay!
So they keep on selling these relatively new scalers,but don't issue firmware upgrades anymore?
Are they trying all of us to buy an expensive VP50 pro ?
Until that one also goes redundant in a few years???!!!
If this msg is correct it will certainly be my last DVDO scaler! :mad::mad::mad:

I don't know what to do myself. I was looking into upgrading to the VP50Pro in a few months, but don't know if I should.

Shame on Anchor Bay!
So they keep on selling these relatively new scalers,but don't issue firmware upgrades anymore?
Are they trying all of us to buy an expensive VP50 pro ?
Until that one also goes redundant in a few years???!!!
If this msg is correct it will certainly be my last DVDO scaler! :mad::mad::mad:I think the policy is quite clear:

VP30 released: dec 2005
VP30/ABT released: may 2006
(informal?) end of software support: nov 2007

Which counts up to 23 months of support for the VP30 and (only) 19 months of support voor de VP30/ABT solution. (I'm not counting in the audio bug which was solved relatively recently.)

Josh: Can you tell me whether the bug I've reported by email to Aaron is still going to be looked at and fixed? I originally emailed him in mid-August and his reply to my request for an update last month was that they were still looking into it.

I've included a copy of the email below for those who are not familiar with the issue. The problem occurs with varying degrees of annoyance on many anime discs, but the examples below show the problem most severely. Swapping out both my VP20 and my ABT-102 did not correct the problem.


On Crest of the Stars DVD 1, episode 1, just before the end credits, there is a scene with serious feathering on the image. The image is fine if I bypass the VP20 and it is fine in game mode 1, but every other mode produces a very bad image. I wasn't able to attach the pictures I took of the problem, but you can download a ZIP of them at:

http://www.cephira.com/Temp/VP20.zip

CotS_bad.jpg shows what the scene looks like in Auto or any of the other modes except Game 1. CotS_game.jpg shows the same scene in Game 1. Just switching the mode while the DVD was paused was sufficient to fix it, and switching it back caused the problem to reappear.

Sai_bad.jpg shows another example just for comparison from a show called Saiyuki. Game 1 also fixes this one but I didn't include a photo.

Both bad scenes have something in common. In the CotS case, the previous scene shows the girl jumping discontinously into the forground over the course of several seconds. In the Saiyuki case, the two horizontal bars with the character closeups appeared suddenly one after the other. The first one (the guy with the monocle on the left) appeared with no problem, but the appearance of the one on the right caused the feathering to appear.

I realize anime can be challenging to deinterlace, but obviously this is some sort of glitch since the cheap deinterlacers in my DVD player and TV handle it fine. I'm hoping the fact that Game 2 has the problem but Game 1 does not will help narrow it down for you.

Donovan

Sorry to ask a question that I am sure has been answered somewhere in the 200+ pages of this thread, but that is a lot to go through. I was thinking of getting a "factory renewed" VP30/ABT102D and was wondering if anyone knew if this is a bad idea? Will I be able to upgrade in the future if I have a factory renewed VP30/abt102d? and do you think they are coming up with a new VP30 device that might be worth waiting for (since they are making it end of life)?

DonovonH:

I've seen this on occasion in anime, and most likely it is a video editing error in the source material. By chance, are those scenes still shots? Or is there stillness in the jagged areas that lasts for 4 fields or longer?

I saw this on an anime disc where a short segment had been mangled such that the low-quality bob was part of the image on-disc, at a 30fps rate. So the processor was actually getting a 2:2 lock and presenting the image as-is. Even in the video deinterlacing mode, the still areas would appear like that, so the only remedy was to switch to Game Mode 1. This was during an opening sequence where the licensor had added their English titles (the textless sequence as an extra on the disc was fine).

As to why your TV/DVD handles it fine, perhaps because it is using its usual bob algorithm and is not getting a 2:2 lock?

It's hard to tell what's happening without having the disc, but I've never seen the VP30 with ABT card, or VP50, resort to a straight vertical bob as an error. I've seen plenty of instances of imperfect anime deinterlacing but never the effect in the screen shots you've attached, except when it's on-disc like that. But I've seen plenty of instances in anime where there is a low-quality bob in the video itself on disc--more than I could ever list.

Hi all,

I seem to be having problems getting my DVDO VP30 with ABT 102 working properly on my Hitachi PJtx100 projector. I have a cable box and a DVD player going in via component cables and then outputting HDMI - DVI to my projector. I get the picture but it is really devoid of i think the colour Red and maybe other colours. It comes out very dark and quite green in colour. I think i have tried going through most of the options but nothing seemed to make any difference. I presume the options change on the fly? Should i use a component out to my projector from the VP30 instead of HDMI - DVI?

I never realised i would have so much problems getting it going, i should have checked to see if its quite fiddly or not i guess before buying it 2nd hand.

Hi all,

I seem to be having problems getting my DVDO VP30 with ABT 102 working properly on my Hitachi PJtx100 projector. I have a cable box and a DVD player going in via component cables and then outputting HDMI - DVI to my projector. I get the picture but it is really devoid of i think the colour Red and maybe other colours. It comes out very dark and quite green in colour. I think i have tried going through most of the options but nothing seemed to make any difference. I presume the options change on the fly? Should i use a component out to my projector from the VP30 instead of HDMI - DVI?

I never realised i would have so much problems getting it going, i should have checked to see if its quite fiddly or not i guess before buying it 2nd hand.

I was having problems settings up my VP30, so I did a reset on it to set it back to factory defaults. Everything worked fine after that. I guess I had just fiddled too much and messed it up.

My VP30 has suddenly stopped working.

The display shows "Powered by ABT" then it quickly flashes "DVDO Iscan VP30 Powered by ABT" with the power light coming on in a red color. It cycles between these 2 messages repeatedly. I've pulled the plug and done a factory reset (plug in while holding menu and exit). I was able to get the checksum displays after the reset, but it went back to flashing between those messages.

Anyone seen this before?

Hi,

Strangely, my VP30 yesterday started doing exactly the same thing!

Waiting for the dealer to get back to me.

This is the second vp30 that has gone faulty on me.

regards

Alan

Guys,

I had the *exact*same issue and it turned out to be a faulty power cable! Call DVDO (hopefully you purchased your unit from an authorized reseller) and they will take care of it for you.

I was skeptic at first that a faulty power chord could result in such bizarre behavior but once I got the replacement and plugged it in; everything worked!

Hi,

Strangely, my VP30 yesterday started doing exactly the same thing!

Waiting for the dealer to get back to me.

This is the second vp30 that has gone faulty on me.

regards

Alan

Mine also just 2 days ago. Is it the cord or the transformer?

Guys,

I had the *exact*same issue and it turned out to be a faulty power cable! Call DVDO (hopefully you purchased your unit from an authorized reseller) and they will take care of it for you.

I was skeptic at first that a faulty power chord could result in such bizarre behavior but once I got the replacement and plugged it in; everything worked!

I had time today to take a voltage reading on the plug that goes into the scaler. It was something like 6.08 volts. So for me I don't think it's the power cord or transformer. The rated transformer output is 6 volts.

Just wondering if someone can help me? I just purchased a VP30 with the ABT add in card and I am using it to process cable tv (480i & 1080i) using HDMI connectors through a Panasonic AX100 projector (720p) onto a 150" screen.

Without the ABT card installed I see a pretty good picture - a decent improvement over the original unprocessed picture. It is sharper (clearer) to my eyes with little in the way of artifacts or noise.

With the ABT card installed I see a much sharper picture (as if it is too sharp) a lot more artifacts - jaggies, more noise & also more ghosting around the images. I am guessing this is not normal and that I should see a better (certainly not worse) picture with the add in card installed. I have reseated the card several times and upgraded the firmware to the latest and have factory reset and completed full power cycles to no effect. I have also tried different resolutions and settings etc including turning the sharpness way down.

Does anyone else use the ABT card on a big screen (100" plus) that could chime in with their thoughts on it? I am quite happy with the picture without the ABT card (I only watch cable tv and DVD movies) so everthing is cool but a lot of reviewers here say that the ABT is a significant upgrade. I am just not seeing that myself.

Don't know if this will help but I had to reset my tv to factory settings then tweaked it with help from the tv forum because of color issues when the ABT card was installed in the VP30. All looks good for us now.

I'm having an issue getting my display, an SXRD XBR1, to sync with the VP30. HDCP in/out are on, VP30's blue light stays on, but my display flashes on and off. Curtain remains open. This occurs regardless of which HDMI input I use.

My source is an SA8300 cable box. If I connect it up via component cables, still using HDMI output from the VP30, and disable HDCP on the output, the connection works fine.

I've tried changing the VP30's output resolution when the 8300 is connected via HDMI, but no luck. I've also tried unplugging both units, ensuring the VP30 is on before powering on the 8300. Is it possible that the VP30's HDMI output cannot effectively drive the 40ft HDMI cable between my equipment cabinet and the TV? Do I have a noise issue that only manifests itself when HDCP is enabled? Perhaps I need signal booster?

Anyone using one of these? I'm curious if it'll help with my issues.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10419&cs_id=1041907&p_id=2849&seq=1&format=2#description

SO I was looking at getting a VP30 with the ABT card. My goal is to play NES, SNES, Genesis, N64, Saturn etc on an LCD with no lag and the best looking display possible.

ANyone have any thoughts on this? OR personal experiences?

CRAP.. my power supply took a dump tonight. go figure. can't get one quickly. its almost impossible to find a 6v dc power supply localy. why oh why did they have to pick 6v.. well here is my solution... dvdo, try to burn this up.

Acopian Adjustable Current Limiting Linear Regulated Power Supply 0-6VDC 12A. Model # VP06HX1200

* Input Voltage: 105-125 VAC, 50-400 Hz, single phase.
* Regulation, Ripple (constant voltage operation): Load Regulation: ±0.005% or 2 mV, whichever is greater. Line Regulation: ±0.005% or 2 mV, whichever is greater. Ripple: 0.25 mV rms.
* Regulation, Ripple (constant current operation): Load Regulation: ±0.2% or 5 mA. Line Regulation: ±0.1% or 2 mA. Ripple: 0.1% rms.
* Remote Voltage Sensing: Provision for sensing the output voltage across the load, to compensate voltage drops in output wiring, is a standard feature.
* Remote Voltage Programming: The output voltage of all models may be controlled by means of external resistance connected in series with the -S lead.
* Voltage Programming Coefficient: See Output Specs. Calibration tolerance, ±2%.


http://bomrat.org/ebaypics/power-01.jpg
http://bomrat.org/ebaypics/power-02.jpg

Input channels of the VP30 are either into a Philips chip (SAA7118 or so) or into HDMI. The Philips chip has room for the 2 composite, 2 S-Video and two RGB(s) or YUV inputs and a little more, but not for another RGBHV input. It seems this RGBHV enters the signal path differently than all the other analog inputs. I would guess it is impossible by hardware to input interlaced signals via RGBHV..

I don't believe that's the case - i.e., that the hardware for the BNC-connector input path is incapable of dealing with interlaced SD signals. The VP30 uses an Analog Devices ADV7402 video decoder for analog HD signals (both RCA and BNC inputs). This device is capable of decoding both SD and HD signals, including NTSC, PAL and SECAM, as well as Y/C and component formats. (I think the VP50 uses the newer ADV7403 chip.)

After checking the block digram of the ADV7402 I still don't get it:
7402 has a 12 ch input matrix, this fits 2 x RGB/YUV (2x3=6 ch) + 2 YC (2x2=4 ch) + 2 x CVBS (2x1=2 ch), for a total of 12 channels. Then I'm still missing the RGBHV input of the VP30. Where does RGBHV go? Also not clear where the two seperate sync input's (from the RGBS inputs) enter the 7402.

I'm trying to set up a block digram of the VP30, so far I have an ADV7402 and 2 x SiI 9031 input stage. We also have a SiI 504 / ABT102 deinterlacer, and an ABT scaling engine in a Spartan? FGPA. Unclear are the components for audio inputs and outputs, the analog audio AD convertor, the video DAC and the supporting control cpu to manage it all.

Suggestions welcome..

CRAP.. my power supply took a dump tonight. go figure. can't get one quickly. its almost impossible to find a 6v dc power supply localy. why oh why did they have to pick 6v.. well here is my solution... dvdo, try to burn this up.

Acopian Adjustable Current Limiting Linear Regulated Power Supply 0-6VDC 12A. Model # VP06HX1200

* Input Voltage: 105-125 VAC, 50-400 Hz, single phase.
* Regulation, Ripple (constant voltage operation): Load Regulation: ±0.005% or 2 mV, whichever is greater. Line Regulation: ±0.005% or 2 mV, whichever is greater. Ripple: 0.25 mV rms.
* Regulation, Ripple (constant current operation): Load Regulation: ±0.2% or 5 mA. Line Regulation: ±0.1% or 2 mA. Ripple: 0.1% rms.
* Remote Voltage Sensing: Provision for sensing the output voltage across the load, to compensate voltage drops in output wiring, is a standard feature.
* Remote Voltage Programming: The output voltage of all models may be controlled by means of external resistance connected in series with the -S lead.
* Voltage Programming Coefficient: See Output Specs. Calibration tolerance, ±2%.
]

Just buy a universal power supply.