got email monday, never got tracking info. got too much info from this board, so called dvdo (along with probably a lot of others - LONG waits.) Got the tracking number, scheduled for Friday delivery. Bummer - local team is in the 1AA championship game Friday nite. no way I'm going to chance missing the game setting up a new device. :(

The first tracking info is usually just billing info for UPS. Got my email Monday and finally had movement last night and received the product today. I went ground as ground is overnight for my location. :D

Was a signature required? I am hoping UPS will leave it outside my door (no one home when the UPS man comes to my house tomorrow)...

Our default for UPS shipments is 'Signature Required' unless otherwise specified.

Our default for UPS shipments is 'Signature Required' unless otherwise specified.

Thanks - I was afraid that would be the case... It makes sense of course considering the value...

Has anyone ordered their VP30 from lenexpo electronics? If so, what has been your experience. My credit card was charged for the full price a couple weeks ago, because according to them, they needed to "lock up" the first batch to avoid further delay. I just spoke to "Eliah(sp)" who is supposed to call DVDO and get updated info. He told me that DVDO is not getting him the units until Friday at this point. I would not generally have a problem with this but Monday I was told Wednesday they would go out. Today on Wednesday, I'm told Friday they will go out, and they have already collected all the funds!!!. He's supposed to call me in fifteen minutes. That was about twenty minutes ago, so I'll see.

I just got a call from Mike at Lenexpo. Evidently, Gary? from DVDO informs him that the VP30 is not shipping until Friday. He stated that he was told that the software is still being finalized. What gives. He said he was going to call DVDO back and ask them to clarify.

Our default for UPS shipments is 'Signature Required' unless otherwise specified.
I must have specified otherwise as mine was left on the front porch without signature.(although I don't recall doing that-no biggy though) That may be standard though with Ground.

BTW, very nice fit and finish...although I think I prefer the matte finish front panel of the HD+. :)

Josh
Have you tried the VP30 with the 1080P Samsungs? Have you had a chance to compare 1080i via HDMI with 1080p VGA? If not and you have a Samsung could you give me your impressions?
Thanks

I have not tried the VP30 with a 1080p Samsung, nor do I have one.

I may have an oppurtunity to try this out later this week.

I will try the VP30 with my 1080P Samsung this weekend.

I must have specified otherwise as mine was left on the front porch without signature.(although I don't recall doing that-no biggy though) That may be standard though with Ground.


I was told by a UPS guy awhile back, that if you have ever signed a slip that allows them to leave a package without a signature, that this will become your default from then on.

I was told by a UPS guy awhile back, that if you have ever signed a slip that allows them to leave a package without a signature, that this will become your default from then on.
Well, you were told that, but that does not absolve UPS if they leave a package on your front door and it gets stolen. It is totally up to the driver wether or not a package is left without a signature. They are 100% liable if they leave it and you do not get it.
Best,
Chris

I must have specified otherwise as mine was left on the front porch without signature.(although I don't recall doing that-no biggy though) That may be standard though with Ground.



around here, that is default for home delivery. regardless of shipper or receiver's instructions. which is why I have all UPS shipped to my company - again, around here, company deliveries MUST be signed for. lesson learned after multiple easter egg hunts around front yard, bushes, evergreens looking for various packages of variable degrees of perishablility.

I will try the VP30 with my 1080P Samsung this weekend.
I assume you got your shipping info? Great news. :D
I arrived home to find a UPS slip that says they were here between 2 to 5. I was here until 5:30. Tomorrow if they come that late I will direct them where to deliver.

Josh- If you get a chance to compare, I would love to hear everyone's opinion.

I will try the VP30 with my 1080P Samsung this weekend.

Did you get your shipping info?

Well, mine's hooked up and running and so far it works very nicely. Have yet to really get into it and play around yet, the next couple of days should be fun. :)

dlm10541 - I have already uploaded the codes for the VP30 to Logitech's (Harmony's) site.

Thanks, Josh for doing this!!!!

- Gerry

Did you get your shipping info?

I got it Tuesday with an estimated Friday delivery. Hopefully the weather on the East coast today doesn't delay delivery tomorrow. I can't even pick it up until Saturday morning(unless I get lucky and get to the Mailbox store before 6pm) and I'll be at my girlfriends this weekend so i won't even be able to hook it up until Sunday night.

Kris Deering,

Lucky you for having the VP30 for a few weeks now, a benefit of being a Senior Editor. What are your impressions? Will you be doing a "Benchmark" review of the VP30? Can you see a improvement in video quality over the HD+, have you made any qualitative measurements yet?
By the way, would it be fair to call you a bubblehead? Although you are from the front end of the boat.

Well I am successfully up and running albeit after some anxious moments changing setting on component that had used different outputs on the HD+.

I am an amateur compared to many of you but here are some quick reactions.

MY DVHS player works fine over component @1080i--didn't on the HD+

I am getting sound from digital outputs on HDCP DVDs on my Denon 2910 using HDMI to the VP30.

My DTV HD-DVR is working fine over HDMI

I had to add the HDMI inputs to my Harmony 880 set up. I hope they are now there for all to use. Perhaps they have some internal programing yet to do.

I am having a problem with DVI-HDMI connection on my Motorola DCT-6412 cable box/DVR. Component works fine. I am researching because I think I have read that this box does have problems with this.

Overall it is doing what I expected--a good thing!! :)

I got it Tuesday with an estimated Friday delivery. Hopefully the weather on the East coast today doesn't delay delivery tomorrow. I can't even pick it up until Saturday morning(unless I get lucky and get to the Mailbox store before 6pm) and I'll be at my girlfriends this weekend so i won't even be able to hook it up until Sunday night.

Congratulations!

i was informed by Jason this morining that AVS has not even received them yet...

It's nice to finally start seeing some real action here. I'm looking forward to reading the feedback! :)

For the Europeans who read this thread: I got my shipping confirmation e-mail today (was sent very late yesterday actually, local time).

Short and sweet message:

"Thank you for your on-line order.
Your order ######## has been shipped from DVDO.
"

The money haven't been withdrawn from my account yet though. I guess that, and getting the tracking info, won't happen until the local dealer here sends the unit to me.

But at least things are in motion. :)


-Would be nice to hear from those of you who have gotten it, if there is a noticeable increase in picture quality from HD / HD+, or if it's the same.

Spill the beans those that have them, we are lickin' our chops here :D

-Gary

dlm10541 - I have already uploaded the codes for the VP30 to Logitech's (Harmony's) site.
To echo dlm10541's post about Harmony, I just tried to update my 880 today and the input listing it presented is outdated, no HDMI for example. In fact, I don't think it had SDI listed either. I chose AUTO but have pretty much boondoggled things up after checking to see if it works.

I have a question about that AUTO setting. If a DirecTV HD-TiVo is connected for example, will the AUTO sensing work as there is still a signal coming from the HD-TiVo when it's in standby mode?

I will admit I have not read the manual in depth yet but I wanted to at least try and see what the deal is with Harmony first.

You can set the priority of the inputs for the 'Auto' input selection in the 'Input Adjust' menu. A source like a TiVo, I would prioritize near the bottom of the list because, as you state, it is always on.

Kris Deering,

Lucky you for having the VP30 for a few weeks now, a benefit of being a Senior Editor. What are your impressions? Will you be doing a "Benchmark" review of the VP30? Can you see a improvement in video quality over the HD+, have you made any qualitative measurements yet?
By the way, would it be fair to call you a bubblehead? Although you are from the front end of the boat.

I guess bubblehead would be appropriate even if I haven't been riding subs in a while now.

Of course the VP-30 will be added to the benchmark but the results will be the same since it uses the same de-interlacing solution. I haven't had a chance to do a "side-by-side" with the HD+ but I am extremelly pleased with the quality of the VP-30. The HDMI inputs work awesome, I love the color space options and I love the flexibility of their new Y/C delay adjustments. The scaling is excellent and in line with what I was seeing from my Denon 5910 (which uses the same scaler).

As you noted Kris, I expect the VP30 performance to be no different from the HD+/HD. BUT did the 5910 use the same scaling engine as the VP30? I thought the 5910 had the version 1 and the VP30 version II of DVDO's scaling engine?

To echo dlm10541's post about Harmony, I just tried to update my 880 today and the input listing it presented is outdated, no HDMI for example. In fact, I don't think it had SDI listed either. I chose AUTO but have pretty much boondoggled things up after checking to see if it works.

I have a question about that AUTO setting. If a DirecTV HD-TiVo is connected for example, will the AUTO sensing work as there is still a signal coming from the HD-TiVo when it's in standby mode?

I will admit I have not read the manual in depth yet but I wanted to at least try and see what the deal is with Harmony first.


On the selection screen go to the right and click on it doesn't look like my setup

Either look to see if the HDMIs are listed or click on "I have remote"and you can teach the codes-- this is what I did--only a couple of minutes.. I believe Harmony has internal programming to do

On the selection screen go to the right and click on it doesn't look like my setup

Either look to see if the HDMIs are listed or click on "I have remote"and you can teach the codes-- this is what I did--only a couple of minutes.. I believe Harmony has internal programming to do
Yeah, I was going to go that route next...was sort of hoping it would be there to do it the "easy" way. :D

You can set the priority of the inputs for the 'Auto' input selection in the 'Input Adjust' menu. A source like a TiVo, I would prioritize near the bottom of the list because, as you state, it is always on.
Okay, so this function "Auto", tells the unit to look for a signal on the input that is requested first, even though there are signals present on other inputs..?

Just to throw it all out there, I will likely be adding a Cable DVR and a Dish DVR, both of which are always "on" as well.

Has anyone taken their SDI from their old DVDO and put it in the VP30 yet?

Has anyone taken their SDI from their old DVDO and put it in the VP30 yet?
Yes, pretty simple procedure. I wiggled the connector loose and then popped the SDI board off the standoffs by pressing a fingernail down on the part protruding through the board. It takes a little working at it, but it took about 10 mins max.

P.S. It helps to have a 16mm(I think that was it) deep well socket for the outboard SDI connector on the back panel.

Got an e-mail from AVS that they charged my credit card, but no shipping/tracking info yet. So, I guess the AVS VP-30's are enroute or are about to be.

Ray

Our default for UPS shipments is 'Signature Required' unless otherwise specified.

Josh, you might want to check that. UPS just left mine without a signature, and I've never authoirzed them to leave anything without a signature that required one. I'm not complaining, I'm very happy they did leave it, but just thought DVDO might want to know.

Got an e-mail from AVS that they charged my credit card, but no shipping/tracking info yet. So, I guess the AVS VP-30's are enroute or are about to be.

Ray
I had mine hooked up before they even debited my CC...the original hold had fallen off a month or so ago... :p :D

In fact, already have a RMA number for my HD+. :)

It pays to live in the bay area sometimes I guess..

Josh, you might want to check that. UPS just left mine without a signature, and I've never authoirzed them to leave anything without a signature that required one. I'm not complaining, I'm very happy they did leave it, but just thought DVDO might want to know.

Same here, I had the package outside my door this evening when I came back from work (with UPS 3 day select). I am quite happy with this though, but it appears signature is not required per default...

Got my VP30 but have not had time to install it yet.

One minor, minor, minor nit--it would have been good to include instructions for those who ordered the trade-in on what they needed to. I'm trading in my iScan HD+.

When I didn't see any documentation on how to trade in, I momentarily panicked and called DVDO. Spoke to a very nice, reassuring person (can't remember his name) who told me I have 30 days to try out the new unit and if I wanted to keep the VP30 and trade in my HD+ to e-mail a certain person at DVDO (is it okay to post the person's e-mail address here?) to request the RMA and include my name, address, order #, and serial #.

Josh--can you confirm me that I got that all right?

Thanks!

- Gerry

P.S. I also currently have the SDI mod on my HD+ that I need to put in the VP30. In a previously post, Josh said: "The VP30 will be shipping with the standoffs for the SDI module installed on the VIB (Video Input Board). All you need to do is remove the SDI module from your HD/HD+ and 'snap' it into your VP30."

Pardon my ignorance, but I haven't opened up my VP30 yet--what is a standoff? Will it be obvious when I install the SDI mod on the VP30 what the standoff is?

Got my VP30 but have not had time to install it yet.

One minor, minor, minor nit--it would have been good to include instructions for those who ordered the trade-in on what they needed to. I'm trading in my iScan HD+.

When I didn't see any documentation on how to trade in, I momentarily panicked and called DVDO. Spoke to a very nice person (can't remember his name) who told me I have 30 days to try out the new unit and if I wanted to keep the VP30 and trade in my HD+ to e-mail a certain person at DVDO (is it okay to post the person's e-mail address here?) to request the RMA and include my name, address, order #, and serial #.

Josh--can you confirm me that I got that all right?

Thanks!

- Gerry

P.S. I also currently have the SDI mod on my HD+ that I need to put in the VP30. In a previously post, Josh said: "The VP30 will be shipping with the standoffs for the SDI module installed on the VIB (Video Input Board). All you need to do is remove the SDI module from your HD/HD+ and 'snap' it into your VP30."

Pardon my ignorance, but I haven't opened up my VP30 yet--what is a standoff? Will it be obvious when I install the SDI mod on the VP30 what the standoff is?

I emailed DVDO today per the instructions at the DVDO site and promptly received an email with RMA within hours.

The standoffs are the little white plastic pieces that help hold the SDI card above the main board. With the VP30 the standoffs are already installed on the main board. It will be obvious when you see it. :)

The web site has info on the upgrade details, check http://www.dvdo.com/faq/faq_upg.php, toward the bottom of the page. I think it is a 30 day money back guarentee, but you have 60 days to return your trade in for credit.

Eric

My hat is off to LenExpo Electronics. I had some concerns when I was given indications of more delay for the VP30 all while others were receiving their units. Mike from the company called me today and gave me the tracking number to confirm that I would have the unit by overnight UPS delivery at no additional charge to me. I had concerns. He followed up quickly and resolved the issue. That is first class service. Thanks.

Thanks ALL for the upgrade info. Completely forgot about checking the website--DOHHH! Just call me Homer . . .

Yes, pretty simple procedure. I wiggled the connector loose and then popped the SDI board off the standoffs by pressing a fingernail down on the part protruding through the board. It takes a little working at it, but it took about 10 mins max.

P.S. It helps to have a 16mm(I think that was it) deep well socket for the outboard SDI connector on the back panel.
Thanks for the advice. I think I will do it tomorrow when I am a little fresher.

Keenan
Thanks also, I was looking for a package with the spacers. When I didn't find one, I came here and you had my answer.

Thanks for the advice. I think I will do it tomorrow when I am a little fresher.

Keenan
Thanks also, I was looking for a package with the spacers. When I didn't find one, I came here and you had my answer.
Just remember to be gentle and not force anything too hard. Be aware that there is a whole circuit board beneath the SDI card that could get damaged fairly easy depending on how you wiggle the card off.

Got mine in, and most everything looks good so far. I did swap over my SDI input, and once I got it out of my HD (it was there to stay) and into the VP30, it worked perfectly.

One comment -- I don't know what robot you guys use to install screws, but please turn it down a half notch. I about stripped 2-3 case screws trying to get them open the first time because they were so tight -- yikes!!!

Someone mentioned earlier a problem with the Motorola 6412 Cable DVR -- I have the Phase III version of this w/ HDMI, and everything ~almost~ works -- picture is OK, but sound volume is very low compared to other inputs.

And on a related front -- I cannot get any DD5.1 output from my VP30 via an HDMI input from the 6412! If I hook up a coax cable from the SPDIF output on the back of the 6412 to the VP30, I get full DD5.1. But via HDMI, I only get PCM.

PLEASE Please please tell me this is something Comcast/Motorola have screwed up and not the dreaded "HDMI+HDCP audio" debacle we've been going around-and-around about....

-John

Someone mentioned earlier a problem with the Motorola 6412 Cable DVR -- I have the Phase III version of this w/ HDMI, and everything ~almost~ works -- picture is OK, but sound volume is very low compared to other inputs.

And on a related front -- I cannot get any DD5.1 output from my VP30 via an HDMI input from the 6412! If I hook up a coax cable from the SPDIF output on the back of the 6412 to the VP30, I get full DD5.1. But via HDMI, I only get PCM.

PLEASE Please please tell me this is something Comcast/Motorola have screwed up and not the dreaded "HDMI+HDCP audio" debacle we've been going around-and-around about....

-John
That's the problem I mentioned earlier. Firmware version 12.22 for the Moto box is supposed to fix the problem but has not been downloaded to all headends yet.

I traded in my old 6412 yesterday and everythingis fine.. Got a new Phase III with HDMI so I am happy. I had some sound problems until I went to the user menu and under additional HDMI settings set the audio to pass through

[QUOTE=John Williams]
One comment -- I don't know what robot you guys use to install screws, but please turn it down a half notch. I about stripped 2-3 case screws trying to get them open the first time because they were so tight -- yikes!!!

QUOTE]

In regards to removing screws on both the HD+ and VP30 to remove and install the SDI mod, which specific screws do you have to remove? All? Some?

Inquiring minds with multiple thumbs need to know! :)

THANKS!

- Gerry

GerryWaz,

You just have to remove....(counting in my head) 9 outside case screws. Two top, one back, 3 left, 3 right. Once in, the SDI board is held in by plastic standoff clips. Oh, and you'll have to unscrew the BNC connector that goes through the back of the case.

The toughest part was getting the board free from the standoffs. After that, it was a snap, literally.

-John

dlm10541,

User menu? Where? Are you on Comcast or some other, better cable provider?

-John

I may have answered my own question about DD audio by reading over in the Motorola 6412 w/ HDMI thread, here (see the top of the page for reference):

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6731683#post6731683

It sounds like it may be a cable DVR bug/limitation. Can anyone here who has an HDMI-equipped DVD player confirm this, so I can apologize here and raise a stink over there?

:)

-John

dlm10541,

User menu? Where? Are you on Comcast or some other, better cable provider?

-John
Provider is Suscom which has been bought by Comcast.

With tv onand box off press MENU on front. A user menu for initialsettings should appear on screen

John I am running the cable box, direct tv HDDVR plus denon 2910 over HDMI with no sound problems.

Well thank goodness for that. I'll fiddle more with the settings when I get back home.

Thanks again!

-John

glad to hear you guys have the VP30 and we can finally discuss it.

I find the PQ improvement quite dramatic from the iScan HD+...

The press releases and other info that was released about the unit led me to believe this was a relatively small quantitive improvement over the iScan HD+. However, this is not the case here.

analog inputs (in particular SVIDEO) have been radically improved. The introduction of the BNC for analog output has also yielded quite a big improvement for analog users.

The 4 HDMI inputs are a great idea and I think they show a lot of forseight with regards to our future needs.

I noticed an improvement in scaling, the picture is sharper and smoother than before. Y/C delay has a much better resolution, which lets me fine tune things greatly (although, I wish I had up-down Y/C delay, 4:2:0 edge overshoot elimination and separate Pb/Pr delay control).

HDMI has given me no problems so far, and worked flawlessly even with arcane sources that have wierd timing issues.

I also like the fact that I have much improved control over test patterns and that the menus now show over the test patterns.

The LCD looks pretty good, but I really think DVDO should rethink their design and go much flashier & sexier (the unit is too "boxy" - a complaint I have with many scaler designs).

I would have also liked to have had a DVI output in parallel with HDMI (it would certainly cabling a lot easier & cheaper).

I understand the unit has a lot more memory. Looking forward to having some new features!

The introduction of the BNC for analog output has also yielded quite a big improvement for analog users.



Your review was believable until I read this.

Your review was believable until I read this.


Care to elaborate and back up your point? What's the problem?

I don't recall this being answered yet: Can the VP30 recognize DVD aspect ratio flags from HDMI input sources and adjust its aspect ratio controls automatically?

Josh, can you comment?

"analog inputs (in particular SVIDEO) have been radically improved. The introduction of the BNC for analog output has also yielded quite a big improvement for analog users"

Ofer,

Can you elaborate on the improvements on the SVideo inputs?

Josh,

The list of discreet IR codes posted on your web site (http://www.dvdo.com/faq/IRcodes-isvp30.html) doesn't include HDMI, as near as I can tell. When will those be updated?

-John

Any word on when AVS will receive their shipment to send out to us?

Anyone know if there is any difference between using SDI or HDMI at 480I from a DVD player? I have a Sony DVP-NS975V which will pass a 480I signal over the HDMI output and it seems the VP30 will accept this input even though it is not that common. Since both are a digital connection, I'm wondering if SDI would offer any advantages, either theoretical or real world.

I'm looking at the VP30/Denon 2910/SDI bundle on the DVDO web site and wondering if there would be any difference in video quality. From what I have read about the 2910, it sounds like a better DVD player than my Sony, but the advantages seem mostly related to analog audio quality and internal video scaling. I wouldn't be using either of these in my setup.

Your review was believable until I read this.

WTF!! :confused:
the VGA connector is the poorest quality connector used today on HT Gear, the BNC RGBHV output should yield massive improvements for analog users

those dinky VGA connectors are garbage and the picture quality suffers from it

can't wait to get mine, I also noticed in the manual that the Y/C adjustment has -100 to +100 adjustment :D, thanks for that one DVDO, I agree we need vertical adjustment for that one also

-Gary

Anyone know if there is any difference between using SDI or HDMI at 480I from a DVD player? I have a Sony DVP-NS975V which will pass a 480I signal over the HDMI output and it seems the VP30 will accept this input even though it is not that common. Since both are a digital connection, I'm wondering if SDI would offer any advantages, either theoretical or real world.

I'm looking at the VP30/Denon 2910/SDI bundle on the DVDO web site and wondering if there would be any difference in video quality. From what I have read about the 2910, it sounds like a better DVD player than my Sony, but the advantages seem mostly related to analog audio quality and internal video scaling. I wouldn't be using either of these in my setup.

I had the same question...I used the avs search engine and found a ton of info. Most said technically yes an SDI path should be better. I recently compared and commented in another thread that if pushed to give a percentage change it would be 10%....increase in detail, enhanced sharpness and 3 dimensionality. It's more of a tweak IMO. But, run a search and read what others have said.

Ron

Ok, sorry I was not considering VGA alternative, I was thinking of vs RCA. But still using a breakout on VGA would solve any cable quality issues.

I've been running a 26' cable from bettercables for quite some time without any issues (from my iSCAN HD to my H79). I just ordered a 30' HDMI/DVI cable from RAM. Is 15' really the max without using a repeater? I spoke to the folks at RAM and they indicated that I should not have any problems....

HDMI to HDMI and HDMI to DVI Cables
New RAM Electronics "High End" Rev2 Cables

http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/DVI-hdmi_cables.html#hdmidvi-r2

New 30' cable arrived. Works perfect now! Slick how the HDMI output from my cable box feeds the audio to the VP30 which outputs it (via digital cable) to my processor (HDCP is on)! This thing rocks! SJ

I have a VP-30 SDI modified and a Denon 3910 SDI modified on order with JVBDigital. A question that has been bothering me as I read the various threads regarding the fact that the next generation of digital surround sound will only output on the HDMI and not the standard toslick or digital cable is whether I can upgrade the units ( VP30 and/or Denon) to a higher version of HDMI as the standards change with the release of Blu-Ray? This is particularly important as my current receiver doesn't have HDMI imput and I am thinking of upgrading to a Denon receiver with HDMI but it doesn't make much sense to do so if the scaler and receiver can't be upgraded to the new standard whether that be 1.1 or above. Any imput would be appreciated.

I'm sure the DVDO is the **** (I still might get one), but it seems to be truly future-proof a scaler would have to have two HDMI outputs. One to the display and one to your new receiver/pre-pro which you will be buying.

Does the next-gen audio spec include standard DD mixes as well for legacy folks?

I have a VP-30 SDI modified and a Denon 3910 SDI modified on order with JVBDigital. A question that has been bothering me as I read the various threads regarding the fact that the next generation of digital surround sound will only output on the HDMI and not the standard toslick or digital cable is whether I can upgrade the units ( VP30 and/or Denon) to a higher version of HDMI as the standards change with the release of Blu-Ray? This is particularly important as my current receiver doesn't have HDMI imput and I am thinking of upgrading to a Denon receiver with HDMI but it doesn't make much sense to do so if the scaler and receiver can't be upgraded to the new standard whether that be 1.1 or above. Any imput would be appreciated.

I'm sure they will have an upgrade program if needed..... :)

Does the next-gen audio spec include standard DD mixes as well for legacy folks?
Yes.

IMO, it is still way too early to be worried about next-gen equipment and compatibility with older devices. The next-gen formats will undoubtedly require a complete re-investment in equipment to have the full functionality of those formats.

It's a matter of cost versus want, for example, if my AVR does the job right now, and a new one is going to run me a pile of money I would wait on purchasing.

OTOH, you could be waiting a long time, take the Anthem D1 for example, that device has been in the "upgrade" mode for close to a year and a half now and it's still not hit the market.

Personally, I'm not even thinking about next-gen for maybe 18-24 mos down the road.

I'm sure they will have an upgrade program if needed..... :)
Indeed, that upgrade program with DVDO is one of the things that sets them apart from much of the industry.

OK. I have my VP30 connected. The good thing is 5.1 audio is going out over the HDMI from my HD-TiVos and my Sony 975 player(set at 480i).
Now the bad. the 1080P out over VGA won't work, just like it didn't on my HD+. That really isn't a big deal right now. The major problem I have is the picture from my HD-TiVos. The resolution is being cut in half like bobbing. The HD-TiVos are outputting 1080i but when it goes through the VP30 and outputs 1080i also it is cutting the resolution in half. It is very obvious on the material and extremely noticeable on the HDNet test pattern. The HD+ did not do this. Is this some kind of a bug in the software? Now if I switch the VP30 output to 720P the picture looks fine although there is less detail since it has dropped to 720P. This is definitely something from the VP30 causing this. Any ideas?

Yes.

IMO, it is still way too early to be worried about next-gen equipment and compatibility with older devices. The next-gen formats will undoubtedly require a complete re-investment in equipment to have the full functionality of those formats.

It's a matter of cost versus want, for example, if my AVR does the job right now, and a new one is going to run me a pile of money I would wait on purchasing.

OTOH, you could be waiting a long time, take the Anthem D1 for example, that device has been in the "upgrade" mode for close to a year and a half now and it's still not hit the market.

Personally, I'm not even thinking about next-gen for maybe 18-24 mos down the road.

Point taken. I guess it's a matter of how you want to spend your money. The DVDO is reasonably priced and available today, but to take advantage of what's around the corner you would eventually have to upgrade. But something like the Crystallio II or forthcoming Lumagen, for example, tees up the next gen formats for an additional two grand or so, and therefore might be worth the wait.

I'm sure the DVDO is the **** (I still might get one), but it seems to be truly future-proof a scaler would have to have two HDMI outputs. One to the display and one to your new receiver/pre-pro which you will be buying.

Does the next-gen audio spec include standard DD mixes as well for legacy folks?

Why would it not be that you input the whole hdmi signal into your receiver/pre-pro for the audio then use the receivers hdmi out as a input for the vp30?

Daniel.

Regarding SDI vs HDMI.

I have the Denon 3910 with SDI and there is a very large difference between the SDI performance and DVI into my HD+.

The SDI output is extremely clean with no visible macroblocking on a Sony G70. The DVI output has a lot of macroblocking noise with dark scenes, but allows the gamma adjustments on the DVD player to function which is VERY useful (Are you listening DVDO?). If I set the DVI output of the 3910 to 1080i then the macroblocking is still present but I find the de-interlacing is better in the displayed image.

I have a few Vp30s on order and will be trying this test again, especially I an hoping for improved deinterlacing performance over SDI.

I'm also planning to test a Pioneer 989 DVD Player which allow native (480i/576i) output over HDMI.

Actually as an aside I will be shortly purchasing a Video processor to use with my G90 and the chosen product absolutely must include gamma, despite being a DVDO dealer and very interested in the VP30. The lack of gamma adjustment is a big issue.

Aaron

What the heck is going on with this thing? Even when I input 720P from the HD-TiVo and output at 1080i from the VP30 the resolution is cut down. What the heck is the problem? The HD+ did not exhibit this kind of behavior. I called DVDo suppport but it was after business hours so I left a message. I also sent an email. Well at least the DVds look fine from my Sony 975 and my Oppo but I need to check it out with the calibration disc.

I'm an HD+ owner who upgraded to the VP30. I've been using my VP30 since Tuesday evening on my Samsung 720p DLP and thought it was about time to post some impressions.

First up the transfer of the SDI module was pretty straight forward. I was a bit concerned about how I was going to remove the standoffs from the HD+, until I popped open the VP30 and found that new standoffs were already inserted in the board. It would have been nice to have updated SDI install instructions for the VP30, but the board layout and enclosure are quite similar to the previous model so it was pretty obvious what needed to be done. One nice touch I noticed while doing the upgrade was that all the screws holding the cover on are now the same size. Not that the screw lengths mattered much on the HD+ but it's just one less thing to keep track of when doing the upgrade.

I took a few photos of the HD+ and VP30 internals which I can post if folks are interested. One thing I noticed that was new on the VP30 besides the smaller heat sink was an expansion socket on the board right next to the Sil504. Most of the visible traces seemed to be going to the deinterlacer, but who knows what's going on other layers. So, Josh, what's this for? Debbuger port for firmware development? Diags at the factory? Some cool future expansion?

So after a bit of rewiring work on the AV system I fired up the VP30. As expected the interface is extremely similar to the HD+ with a few more input choices and a handful of new options. Most of my previous settings transferred over and seem appropriate. I haven't done a full calibration yet. I did notice that the overscan setting for my HD TiVo needed to be increased from the HD+ setting, perhaps this is due to the switch from DVI to HDMI. I'm also suspicious that my audio delay setting is no longer accurate. I will have to remeasure that, perhaps this weekend.

Picture quality wise the VP30 is an improvement over the HD+, though a very, very subtle improvement. The new scaling engine seems subtlely sharper/clearer and perhaps with a touch smoother in shadow detail. I'd like to A/B the HD+ and the VP30 but it's really not practical given my setup, so I have to work from memory. In short the difference between the HD+ and the VP30 is incredibly subtle, perhaps 1-2% better on my setup.

One item I was a little disappointed not to see in the VP30 is the non-linear scaling feature. Josh did mention that this would be the first thing they work on for a firmware update. While I knew this feature would likely be absent on the initial release, I'm not sure it's the wisest thing to still be advertising this device as having a non-linear scaling feature when that feature is not yet available. They should probably add a "coming soon" disclaimer next to that feature on the website.

I generally use a universal remote, so I'm not very picky about bundled remotes. I think however, that overall the remote is an improvement. Unlike the HD+ it's got discrete power buttons and direct buttons for particular submenus. And the test patterns are no longer cycled by obscure number buttons, but dedicated forward and backward buttons. Also the vestigial number buttons from the HD+ have been removed.

The VP30 is clearly the child of the HD+ as it still has the DirecTiVo digital audio problems I had with the HD+. I'm surprised others haven't run into this problem. Essentially if optical digital audio originates from a DirecTiVo (either my HD or my SD Hughes) programs with AC3 audio will occasionally be silent. They can be made to produce sound by switching the associated audio input on the DVDO to another input and then back to the correct input. This problem does not occur when TiVo audio is connected directly to my receiver (a Pioneer Elite VSX-47TX). Also fiddiling with the receiver (unplugging inputs, toggling inputs) does nothing to resolve the issue. The workaround is that I just use the analog outputs from the TiVo. No TV surround sound for me. Or perhaps HDMI is the answer, I haven't yet experimented on the VP30.

All and all, I am happy with the VP30 upgrade. I now have more HDMI inputs and am quite happy about that. I am also looking forward to exploring the new features as I play more with my new toy. For instance, I haven't yet played with HDMI colorspaces or audio. I am also looking forward to what firmware update goodies DVDO has in store for me in 2006. Owning an HD+ in 2005 was a pleasure particularly because of the cool and feature packed aspect ratio update.

- Collin

Here's a photo of the expansion socket thingy I mentioned in my post above.

- Collin

It was so wonderful REMOVING all of the extra cables going to my Optoma H79. Now I only have one cable (DVI/HDMI) going to the projector! Also, this allowed me to source lock the H79 on the DVI input. This is a huge plus as the Optoma is sometimes a pain to switch/sync. Now it stays on only one setting. When I turn the projector on it is ready to go. This really has made my setup so straightforward. This unit is sweet. Picture quality seems much better than my iSCAN HD. Also, I was a little worried about my XBOX360. There is really NO lag as the VP30 transcodes the component 720p to HDMI. Also, the ability to set the picture control for all the inputs really is great. Fantastic.

:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) SJ

Here's a photo of the VP30's internals.

- Collin

Here's a photo of the VP30's internal with the SDI module installed.

- Collin

For reference here's a photo of my HD+'s internals, sans SDI module.

- Collin

Has anyone been able to get VGA to work between the VP30 and a Samsung 1080p????

Point taken. I guess it's a matter of how you want to spend your money. The DVDO is reasonably priced and available today, but to take advantage of what's around the corner you would eventually have to upgrade. But something like the Crystallio II or forthcoming Lumagen, for example, tees up the next gen formats for an additional two grand or so, and therefore might be worth the wait.

Well, I will wait for them to debug the new formats while I enjoy my DVDO VP30 :-)


Have fun!


P.S. Still no shipping info...

Got my VP30 up and working with the SDI mod installed (thanks, John!) from my old HD+. Only difficulty was figuring out to get the BNC connector off the old unit to the new one, but I figured that one out.

Pretty much agree with everyone that the improvements were well worth the upgrade.

One question, though--is anyone else having a problem with their new VP30 remote? Mine has the range of 6-7 feet at most. Beyond that, it's very, very iffy and rarely works at all.

I sit about 9-10 feet away from my Sony 50" LCD TV so this is an issue for me should I need to use the VP30 remote.

Tried fresh new batteries--no difference

Tried my old HD+ remote on the VP30 and it worked--it's range was well beyond 6-7 feet. No problem sending commands from over 10 feet away.

Could I have a "bad remote" for my VP30?

- Gerry

GerryWaz,

We must have the same batch of remotes. I have to be about 6' away pointing *straight* at the VP30 to get it to work. With my old HD, I could be clear across the room at an angle, and it would work. And I even started out with Duracells in the new remote!

What gives?

-John

Got my VP30 up and working with the SDI mod installed (thanks, John!) from my old HD+. Only difficulty was figuring out to get the BNC connector off the old unit to the new one, but I figured that one out.

Pretty much agree with everyone that the improvements were well worth the upgrade.

One question, though--is anyone else having a problem with their new VP30 remote? Mine has the range of 6-7 feet at most. Beyond that, it's very, very iffy and rarely works at all.

I sit about 9-10 feet away from my Sony 50" LCD TV so this is an issue for me should I need to use the VP30 remote.

Tried fresh new batteries--no difference

Tried my old HD+ remote on the VP30 and it worked--it's range was well beyond 6-7 feet. No problem sending commands from over 10 feet away.

Could I have a "bad remote" for my VP30?

- Gerry

Actually I seem to have the same issue. Although I have programmed my MX3000 which has sensors on each piece of my equipment and therefore don't really have an issue. The unit seems to be powerful as I have an IR receive for other home automation equipment which shows a fairly hot signal coming from it. Certainly doesn't seem to work as well as my iSCAN HD remote/unit combo. Doesn't seem to work from my normal viewing position in my HT. SJ

Got my VP30 up and working with the SDI mod installed (thanks, John!) from my old HD+. Only difficulty was figuring out to get the BNC connector off the old unit to the new one, but I figured that one out.

Pretty much agree with everyone that the improvements were well worth the upgrade.

One question, though--is anyone else having a problem with their new VP30 remote? Mine has the range of 6-7 feet at most. Beyond that, it's very, very iffy and rarely works at all.

I sit about 9-10 feet away from my Sony 50" LCD TV so this is an issue for me should I need to use the VP30 remote.

Tried fresh new batteries--no difference

Tried my old HD+ remote on the VP30 and it worked--it's range was well beyond 6-7 feet. No problem sending commands from over 10 feet away.

Could I have a "bad remote" for my VP30?

- Gerry
I had to get my remote close and point it directly at the VP30 to have it work.

I have not tried the VP30 with a 1080p Samsung, nor do I have one.

I may have an oppurtunity to try this out later this week.

This was Josh's reply when I asked him about trying the VGA out to the Samsung. Let's hope he does have the opportunity since aaronwt has not been able to get it to work.

I can get it to work at 720 P but with HDCP it won't show the output of both my HD-TiVos or my Sony 975 over the analog out. It will show the output of the OPPO over the analog out. But my main problem is the resolution problem when outputting 1080i. It is cut in half for some reason and this did not occur with the HD+.
Audio wise with HDMI it is excellent. It's nice to be able to put the audio over the HDMI and output it from the VP30 digital outs. This will eliminate several cables for me. But for now I have to hook my HD-TiVos up straight to the TV because the picture is so bad with the resolution at 1080i. I might reconnect it and run it at 720P but it still doesn't look as good as the HD-TiVos did through the HD+ since the HD+ didn't cut the resolution.

I am almost ready to pull the trigger on VP30. Is anybody can provide detailed instruction to how I can do 1:1 mapping on Panasonic th50px50u, will it take native resolution over HDMI, etc,. Any feedback of the owners of the same TV about picture quality from SD and DVD would be nice too. Alex

mswlogo,

I didnt' mean a big PQ improvement, but a usability improvement.

This feature is something that was asked several times of DVDO and every other scaler manufacturer. Pulling long distance RGBHV cables causes a lot of problems vs. separate BNC cables. CRT projector owners would appreciate that.

I didn't see a dramatic change between HDMI input and SDI input (although, I plan on continuing to use SDI for the foreseeable future).

Note that most of my testing, so far, was with PAL (there are enough people testing with NTSC and PAL is a common problematic area). There are still a few problems (all of which were reported to ABT). IMO, the new VP30 is a slightly bigger improvement than was originally advertised.

One question, though--is anyone else having a problem with their new VP30 remote? Mine has the range of 6-7 feet at most. Beyond that, it's very, very iffy and rarely works at all.

Yes, I have the same problem with mine. I have not programmed my 880 yet so I'm still using the VP30 remote, but it is not useful or practical to use in the manner I have to use it currently.

What size and type displays are you guys running that see a large improvement from iScan HD/HD+ to VP30?

mswlogo,

I didnt' mean a big PQ improvement, but a usability improvement.

This feature is something that was asked several times of DVDO and every other scaler manufacturer. Pulling long distance RGBHV cables causes a lot of problems vs. separate BNC cables. CRT projector owners would appreciate that.

I didn't see a dramatic change between HDMI input and SDI input (although, I plan on continuing to use SDI for the foreseeable future).

Note that most of my testing, so far, was with PAL (there are enough people testing with NTSC and PAL is a common problematic area). There are still a few problems (all of which were reported to ABT). IMO, the new VP30 is a slightly bigger improvement than was originally advertised.

Can you perhaps describe your issues with PAL? I'm interested in this.

In my view...

Scaling is excellent, sharp and crystal clear.

BNC output terminated on BNC blade on my 50" plasma gives a noticeable sharper picture (on test patterns) than previous iScan models, and other scalers. Really is high quality output.

The realtime scaling effects (e.g. changing from 4:3 to 16:9) are superb.

I have same remote control issue, only works at very short direct distances away.

Also RS232 codes to switch aspect ratios have changed, since HD anyway, so my auto-controller switcher (the PARC209) no longer works. Wish they still supported the old RS232 codes, as well as new ones.

Got a few PAL issues with false positives on 2:2 pulldown and combing, but on SLI DVD input the deinterlacing and scaling is awesome. Also does fantastic 2:2 pulldown at 48Hz for Region1 DVDs.

StooMonster

Seems like many of us have a distance issue with our otherwise VP30 excellent remotes.

While I also have a Logitech Harmony 880 (which I've yet to reprogram), for some things I prefer still using the DVDO remote (and, if anything should happen to the 880, like having that good backup at hand).

I don't feel the issue is a deal-breaker for those considering the VP30. I'm glad I made the upgrade "plunge." A remote with a stronger signal is more towards a "nice to have" than a big "need to have" issue for me. Still, I wish it was "stronger" for when I'm "lazy" on the couch :) .

Josh--any comment on the lack of distance strength with the new remotes?

THANKS!

So no one is having the problems I'm having with 1080i HD input into the VP30 from HDMI and output at 1080i where the VP30 is cutting the resolution in half, like it's deintelacing the 1080i by bobbing and downconverting to 540P before upconverting back to 1080i? I just know the HD+ didn't have this problem. I hope it's a firmware problem or just isolated to my unit because otherwise it shows a good picture from DVD sources and my SDTiVo. I still need to throw some test patterns on the DVD players but I won't get around to that until early next week.

You may want to try switching your device to 720p to see what happens? I'm running two HD sources into the VP30 (720p) with no issues. Both are HDMI (one with HDCP protection). SJ

Seems like many of us have a distance issue with our otherwise VP30 excellent remotes.


Actually, I got a SUNGALE HD928 multi-zone DVD player with HDMI (for US$90!) 10 days ago. This player is amazing (plays any DVDs from any zone as well as Divx, etc.!) but the remote has the worst range I've ever seen. It looks like the exact same remote used by the VP30... (see it here: http://www.geeks.com/largePic_All.asp?InvtId=HD928&Pic=HD928-unit.jpg )

aaronwt,

I don't have my VP30 yet so excuse me if this is a stupid question, but do you have to set that particular HDMI input (1080i) to be passed through in order bypass the VP30's deinterlacing. If that input is just set at 1080i output, then I imagine every signal it gets goes through the deinterlacer. I don't think it has the ability to be told to deinteralace only SD material. In other words did you set the HDMI 1080i input you have to be passed through or did you set it as 1080i output?

Andy

If there is a setting like that I don't know where it is. the menu system is like the HD+ and I never had to to anything like that with the HD+. The main reason I want to run the 1080i through the HDMi is for the HDMi switching and for the negative overscan so I can see as close to 100% of the picture as possible. This was excellent in the HD+ so I don't see why I'm having problems with the picture with the VP30, but it seems like it's definitely doing something that it shouldn't be doing. I'll have to investigate further when I get home tomorrow night.

I'm not sure you can "pass through" a signal like you could on the HD+. I was referring to changing your HD sources to output 720p which normally can be done on each device. I have a sat and cable box. Both allow me to select the HD output. SJ

I am experiencing the following issue:

I get a substansial amount of noise when transcoding analog component (480i) to HDMI (720p). When I use HDMI to HDMI the picture is clear without any noise. On the IScan HD+ I did not have any noise when going from 480i analog component to 720p DVI (same sources and displays). Could it be that the HDMI signal strength out on the VP30 is lower than the DVI out on the IScan HD+?

Anyone else seen the same?

dlm10541 - I have already uploaded the codes for the VP30 to Logitech's (Harmony's) site.
FYI to Logitech Harmony owners who have not updated their remotes yet . . .

Just went to the Harmony site and reprogrammed my 880 remote.

The site only had the following inputs available for the VP30: Auto, Video 1, Video 2, S-Video 1, S-Video 2, Component 1, Component 2, and Passthru. (Is Passthru the same as SDI?)

Anyway, you may need to manually add HDMI 1, HDMI 2, HDMI 3, HDMI 4, or SDI and then use the remote learning function.

Worked pretty well. I'm now bouncing between by Comcast HD cable coming in via HDMI 4 and DVD coming in via SDI and I'm loving what I'm seeing on my Sony via the VP30.

- Gerry

P.S. Does Comcast offer a digital receiver with HDMI out yet? Mine "goes up to" DVI. THANKS!

So no one is having the problems I'm having with 1080i HD input into the VP30 from HDMI and output at 1080i where the VP30 is cutting the resolution in half, like it's deintelacing the 1080i by bobbing and downconverting to 540P before upconverting back to 1080i? I just know the HD+ didn't have this problem. I hope it's a firmware problem or just isolated to my unit because otherwise it shows a good picture from DVD sources and my SDTiVo. I still need to throw some test patterns on the DVD players but I won't get around to that until early next week.
Luckily, I am not having any problems like that.

FYI to Logitech Harmony owners who have not updated their remotes yet . . .

Just went to the Harmony site and reprogrammed my 880 remote.

The site only had the following inputs available for the VP30: Auto, Video 1, Video 2, S-Video 1, S-Video 2, Component 1, Component 2, and Passthru. (Is Passthru the same as SDI?)

Anyway, you may need to manually add HDMI 1, HDMI 2, HDMI 3, HDMI 4, or SDI and then use the remote learning function.

Worked pretty well. I'm now bouncing between by Comcast HD cable coming in via HDMI 4 and DVD coming in via SDI and I'm loving what I'm seeing on my Sony via the VP30.

- Gerry

P.S. Does Comcast offer a digital receiver with HDMI out yet? Mine "goes up to" DVI. THANKS!
I was hoping all of the inputs would be there. I am new to universal remotes and have not tried to use the learning function.
I want to be able to use my TV speakers from my HDMI sometimes and then sometimes send the audio from HDMI to my amp. How do I set up changing the audio output for that? Do I add an extra command for the DVDO to change the audio output and do I have to put a time lag in after it is turned on before this command? :confused:

FYI to Logitech Harmony owners who have not updated their remotes yet . . .

Just went to the Harmony site and reprogrammed my 880 remote.

The site only had the following inputs available for the VP30: Auto, Video 1, Video 2, S-Video 1, S-Video 2, Component 1, Component 2, and Passthru. (Is Passthru the same as SDI?)

Anyway, you may need to manually add HDMI 1, HDMI 2, HDMI 3, HDMI 4, or SDI and then use the remote learning function.

Worked pretty well. I'm now bouncing between by Comcast HD cable coming in via HDMI 4 and DVD coming in via SDI and I'm loving what I'm seeing on my Sony via the VP30.

- Gerry

P.S. Does Comcast offer a digital receiver with HDMI out yet? Mine "goes up to" DVI. THANKS!

Haven't done my 880 yet..does it work better than the VP30 remote?

I played with it again last night and frankly, it's not acceptable in it's current state. I even turned the VP30 45 degrees to get a clearer shot at the IR receiver and I still had to stand up and point almost directly straight toward it and be about 6-7ft away.

P.S. Does Comcast offer a digital receiver with HDMI out yet? Mine "goes up to" DVI. THANKS!
Yes, the Motorola DCT6412 Phase III, may not be in all areas yet. Make sure it has FW 12.22 as there is an HDMI related audio issue with pre-12.22 FW.

The all digital DCT3412 is also available in some areas that have have Digital Simulcast of analog completed.

I was hoping all of the inputs would be there. I am new to universal remotes and have not tried to use the learning function.
I want to be able to use my TV speakers from my HDMI sometimes and then sometimes send the audio from HDMI to my amp. How do I set up changing the audio output for that? Do I add an extra command for the DVDO to change the audio output and do I have to put a time lag in after it is turned on before this command? :confused:

I'm not sure but I think the Harmony adds some kind of time lags naturally. The key is getting the right devices in the right order. I'm finding I need to have the VP30 usually turned on last (or at least after the devices sending it the video signal to the VP30 and receiving the signal from the VP30 are turned on)--or else I get the infamous flashing blue light on the VP30 and I have to cycle power on the VP30 to right things.

The learning mode was pretty easy once I figured it out. When customizing the device you get to a grid with the inputs. Just add the new inputs that you want to the grid and the Harmony site will walk you through learning the comands for each. Just have your DVDO remote handly as you'll need to position it in a certain way with the Harmony before pressing the desired key on the DVDO remote for the Harmony to learn.

I haven't gone much beyond that yet. I'm need to add some more of the DVDO remote's button to the Harmony.

As for your two audio scenarios when for watching TV, I'd set up two activities for watching TV--like "Watch TV" and "Watch TV2". I customize each with the two different sound options and devices to turn on. I think that would work (I hope) and should be easy to do.

- Gerry

Haven't done my 880 yet..does it work better than the VP30 remote?

I played with it again last night and frankly, it's not acceptable in it's current state. I even turned the VP30 45 degrees to get a clearer shot at the IR receiver and I still had to stand up and point almost directly straight toward it and be about 6-7ft away.

It's definitely a far stronger signal with the Harmony 880. No problems there.

I just need to experiment with adding more commands to the Harmony, especially the ones I use often with the DVDO remote. I just have On, Off, Adjust Down, Adjust Up, and all the inputs now on the Harmony for the VP30.

- Gerry

Yes, the Motorola DCT6412 Phase III, may not be in all areas yet. Make sure it has FW 12.22 as there is an HDMI related audio issue with pre-12.22 FW.

The all digital DCT3412 is also available in some areas that have have Digital Simulcast of analog completed.
THANKS so much for the info and tip. Will check it out with Comcast next week.

- Gerry

It's definitely a far stronger signal with the Harmony 880. No problems there.

I just need to experiment with adding more commands to the Harmony, especially the ones I use often with the DVDO remote. I just have On, Off, Adjust Down, Adjust Up, and all the inputs now on the Harmony for the VP30.

- Gerry
Thanks, I generally don't use the Harmony for more detailed changes or functions, usually use the VP30(previously HD+) remote for that stuff, but if the VP30 remote issue is not resolved I may have to swap over as many functions as possible to the Harmony.

Think I will sit tight for awhile, at least until we hear from Josh.. :)

Finally moved the SDI board from HD+ to VP30. The hardest part is to get the board off the stand-offs without breaking the board. Now time to play with VP30.

I've been following the Posts on the New VP30 but haven't seen any related to RS232 Automation protocol commands. Does anyone know if they exists or if they will in the near future?

The good thing is 5.1 audio is going out over the HDMI from my HD-TiVos and my Sony 975 player(set at 480i).
Now the bad. the 1080P out over VGA won't work, just like it didn't on my HD+.

This sounds like an HDCP problem. If the source has HDCP on, you can't use the analog output.

The HD-TiVo will enable HDCP if it detects the source supports it. I would disable HDCP on the input of the VP30 for the HD TiVo. This should allow the VGA output to work.

You won't be able to do this for the Sony DVD because it always has HDCP on. If you turn it off on the input of the VP30, you will not get a picture.

I have had the short range issue with the HD, HD+ and VP30 remotes.

I have had the short range issue with the HD, HD+ and VP30 remotes.
Are you saying every one of those remotes has the same problem with the VP30? Or, that all those combos had the remote problem? I never had this much problem with the HD+ and it's remote.

Are you saying every one of those remotes has the same problem with the VP30? Or, that all those combos had the remote problem? I never had this much problem with the HD+ and it's remote.

I'm yet to hook up the VP30, but with the HD (later HD+) I never had a problem with the remote from 12 feet.

I have now played around with the VP30 a litte bit more and I have determined that there is a problem with the VP30 upconversion/deinterlacing of analog 480i component source to HDMI 720p ouput. For some reason there is quite a bit of digital noise in the resulting output signal. I did not have this problem with the iScan HD+ for the same combination (with DVI out).

I have now changed my DVD players from outputing 480i to 480p and everything is okay (i.e. 480p component in with 720p HDMI out is fine - no noise). Since one of the benefits with the iScan is the good deinterlacing I am a bit disappointed where I would rather output 480i from the DVD players to have the iScan do the deinterlacing...

Is this a probelm on only my player or have anyone else noticed the same?

Hi Guys!
Does Pioneer 59AVi pass BTB in 480i via HDMI? I have mine connected to VP30 but is not passing BTB. Output level is set to video. Theta Carmen II connected via RGBHV is passing BTB.

I have now played around with the VP30 a litte bit more and I have determined that there is a problem with the VP30 upconversion/deinterlacing of analog 480i component source to HDMI 720p ouput. For some reason there is quite a bit of digital noise in the resulting output signal. I did not have this problem with the iScan HD+ for the same combination (with DVI out).

I have now changed my DVD players from outputing 480i to 480p and everything is okay (i.e. 480p component in with 720p HDMI out is fine - no noise). Since one of the benefits with the iScan is the good deinterlacing I am a bit disappointed where I would rather output 480i from the DVD players to have the iScan do the deinterlacing...

Is this a probelm on only my player or have anyone else noticed the same?
Maybe this is somehow related to the problem I'm having with 1080i. Where it is cutting the resolution in half. I need to run some test patterns on the 480i input to see what it does. Unfortunately with Christmas approaching I am going to have very little time to trouble shoot it this week. I think I'll have to reconnect my HD+ for my HD TiVos and I'll have to run my DVD players at 720P through the VP30. It sounds like it does something weird when it receives an interlaced signal, but I have no idea why it would affect a 1080i signal since it shouldn't be deinterlacing it to output it at the same resolution. If it is there is defintely a problem because my HD signals at 1080i look like crap going through the VP30. I'll have to take a picture tonight of the HDNet test pattern going through the HD+ and the VP30 for a comparison. The difference will be obvious.

One question though, what is the best format to output over the HDMI? The 10bit output or should I match the VP30 output with each source output since the VP30 will remember it for each input.? I've tried all 3 choices and they will make the picture brighter or darker but it doesn't affect the resolution problem I'm seeing.

Maybe this is somehow related to the problem I'm having with 1080i. Where it is cutting the resolution in half. I need to run some test patterns on the 480i input to see what it does. Unfortunately with Christmas approaching I am going to have very little time to trouble shoot it this week. I think I'll have to reconnect my HD+ for my HD TiVos and I'll have to run my DVD players at 720P through the VP30. It sounds like it does something weird when it receives an interlaced signal, but I have no idea why it would affect a 1080i signal since it shouldn't be deinterlacing it to output it at the same resolution. If it is there is defintely a problem because my HD signals at 1080i look like crap going through the VP30. I'll have to take a picture tonight of the HDNet test pattern going through the HD+ and the VP30 for a comparison. The difference will be obvious.



-Maybe I'm misunderstanding something, but it sounds to me like the VP30 is "deinterlacing" the 1080i and outputting it as 1080p.
But the VP30 can't 'properly' deinterlace 1080i, so as per your description, it does bob and downscale, then upscale the signal in order to output it as 1080p:

The iScan VP30 can not deinterlace a 1080i signal, it field-scales (Bobs) a 1080i signal and outputs it as 1080p.

Maybe look at the Information part in the menu, to see if it's outputting 1080p and not 1080i.

Did you want it to pass the signal through instead of making it 1080p? Maybe there's a setting somewhere in the menues that will disable the 'deinterlacing'.

Note: I haven't received my unit yet, so I get this from reading this thread only.

-Maybe I'm misunderstanding something, but it sounds to me like the VP30 is "deinterlacing" the 1080i and outputting it as 1080p.
But the VP30 can't 'properly' deinterlace 1080i, so as per your description, it does bob and downscale, then upscale the signal in order to output it as 1080p:



Maybe look at the Information part in the menu, to see if it's outputting 1080p and not 1080i.

Did you want it to pass the signal through instead of making it 1080p? Maybe there's a setting somewhere in the menues that will disable the 'deinterlacing'.

Note: I haven't received my unit yet, so I get this from reading this thread only.


I doubt DVDO would do this intentionally - can DVDO comment on this?

I don't expect motion adaptive de-interlacing of 1080i but throwing away half the
resolution would make the 1080p output worthless to me...

If there is a setting like that I don't know where it is. the menu system is like the HD+ and I never had to to anything like that with the HD+. The main reason I want to run the 1080i through the HDMi is for the HDMi switching and for the negative overscan so I can see as close to 100% of the picture as possible. This was excellent in the HD+ so I don't see why I'm having problems with the picture with the VP30, but it seems like it's definitely doing something that it shouldn't be doing. I'll have to investigate further when I get home tomorrow night.


Our VP30 isn't hooked up yet but I'm planning on passing thru 1080i. Is component input (via 1080i component out from HDTivo) to HDMI 1080i output showing the same problem? Or is the bob and weave happening only on HDMI input to HDMI out? thx

I am not having any problems with my 1080i output. Are you sure you selected 1080i as your output setup format?

So at this point we know that you can't pass-through 1080p until a firmware upgrade.

Has the question been answered if you can pass-though 1080i ??

That way there is no down-scaling (field-scaling) by the VP30.

Is it correct that the terenex chip (HQV products) will de-interlace 1080i as the DVDO products do with 480i ?

I have now played around with the VP30 a litte bit more and I have determined that there is a problem with the VP30 upconversion/deinterlacing of analog 480i component source to HDMI 720p ouput. For some reason there is quite a bit of digital noise in the resulting output signal. I did not have this problem with the iScan HD+ for the same combination (with DVI out).

I have now changed my DVD players from outputing 480i to 480p and everything is okay (i.e. 480p component in with 720p HDMI out is fine - no noise). Since one of the benefits with the iScan is the good deinterlacing I am a bit disappointed where I would rather output 480i from the DVD players to have the iScan do the deinterlacing...

Is this a probelm on only my player or have anyone else noticed the same?

I'm running component 480i out of my DVD player into the VP30 and then to my projector at 720p (via HDMI/DVI). I'm not seeing any issues with this. Is there some test pattern I should look at to verify? Picture looks great to me! SJ

Do I have to download files for SDI like I did on my HD?
No, with the SDI card installed, you are ready to go.

Do I have to download files for SDI like I did on my HD?

No like the HD+ its supported from from the start, the HD needed a firmware upgrade to a new version but not on the vp30. plug it in and it autodetects.

Daniel.

I've been following the Posts on the New VP30 but haven't seen any related to RS232 Automation protocol commands. Does anyone know if they exists or if they will in the near future?
In post #1346 above I mention that old iScan HD aspect ratio switching codes are no longer supported, but I think they changed in HD+.

The manual (which you can download from DVDO.com) has a couple of pages devoted to the RS232 control codes. They seem pretty comprehensive.

StooMonster

Just a quick one, fwiw. Got my VP30 up and running, more or less, in about as much time as it takes to connect wires. got a picture out of my crt fp immediately - only real problem was that the VP kept defaulting things back to component instead of RGBHV a few times. Once that was sorted out, only problem I'm seeing now is some image shift, and overscan. So will need to actually READ the manual (horrors) to get that sorted out. Otherwise, quite nice, feeding S-video, 480p component, and 1080i HD in over DVI, and outputting 1080i over RGBHV. Need to try other output res, but already had Runco dialed in at 1080i, so figured I'd start easy.

for those who care, by far the biggest improvement I can see is in 480i SD cable, over S-video. It doesn't look like HD, but it has become much more watchable - great for when games are on ESPN or Comcast, or something else that isn't HD.

Thanks for the response. I looked on the DVDO website and can only find the codes for the HD+ (which I have now working on RS232 codes). I do not see codes for the VP30. The critical difference in the VP30 to HD+ is missing HDMI direct input codes. Do you know if there are codes (automation manaual) posted on the wbesite specifically for the VP30? I appreciate anyones help on this topic.

So here are pics of the same HDNet test pattern. One from the HD+ and one from the VP30. Both were input at 1080i and output at 1080i over HDMI. I am using the underscan feature in each, but it is the same even when not using it.

HD+

http://www.aaronwt.com/VP30/HD%2B.JPG



VP30

http://www.aaronwt.com/VP30/VP30.JPG

The picture shows exactly how it looks when viewing it, just closer since I zoomed in with the camera, but the difference is obvious. Even with regular viewing material it is obvious that the resolution is reduced considerably.
What can I do to correct this?


The firmware is version 1.00! Is that the correct version?

I'll have to dig up some component cables and see how it looks over the component input.

I just checked it using the component input at 1080i and the result is the same. I sent an email to DVDO support with the previous pics. Hopefully they will have an answer for me. I have no desire to watch HD this way or to have to drop my HD-TiVo output to 720 for it to look halfway decent while also decreasing the resolution to 1280x720P instead of 1920x1080i which is what it should be. So for now I guess I'll leave the VP30 connected for testing the DVD inputs over HDMI but I'll have to connect my HD-TiVos straight to the TV since I don't have room to have both the HD+ and the VP30 connected at the same time.

Aaron looking forward to your finding's

My VP30 should arrive this week, I will be inputting 1080i from HDMI from D-VHS decks and a Dish Network HD PVR, output will be hdmi at 1080i to Mits 65813

your problem could very well be related to the fact that Directv does not send true HDTV(they send 1280x1080i) where as Dish sends the true 1920x1080i signal, the VP30 may be scaling that 1280 > 1920, just a idea

but being that you are only getting 1280x1080i from Directv, setting your unit to 720p COULD be a alternative

why anyone pays for garbage HD-Lite from Directv is beyond me, I do realize that some folks don't even know this fact though, that is a true shame in itself

-Gary

But the problem is that even when watching OTA from CBS, NBC, or PBS the resolution seems to be reduced. Also the HD+ doesn't exhibit the problem on the test pattern. I still need to see what it does with the DVD players if they input a pattern at 1080i compared with 720P or 480P, 480i.

And also now that I think about it, DirecTv might be broadcasting at 1280x1080i but the HDTiVo is still outputting a signal at 1920x1080i. So the HDTiVo is converting the 1280x1080i to 1920x1080i before it enters the VP30. This doesn't affect the TV when input directly into it or the HD+. I figure if the HD+ can do it correctly then the VP30 should be able to, which unfortunately it isn't at the moment.

you have some good points, I was just throwing out a "possible"

but I will be sure and check what you are seeing first thing when I get my VP30, as I will be using 1080i in/1080i out

but (and a big but) I will be using a 1080i display, then again you said your HD+ didn't have this issue

have you compared the 2 units on a 1080i display ??

-Gary

I don't have my 1080i set anymore.

Are you sure you have the de-interlacer set properly? What mode do you have it set to?

I'm running component 480i out of my DVD player into the VP30 and then to my projector at 720p (via HDMI/DVI). I'm not seeing any issues with this. Is there some test pattern I should look at to verify? Picture looks great to me! SJ

The noise is obvious. I also tried a PAL DVD player today with a 576i output over component and converted to 720p over HDMI. Here again I get the same noise... On the iScan HD+ the same combination is producing an excellent image (using DVI out). Again, as long as I feed the VP30 a progressive source the output is good, but both 480i and 576i have noise issues on the resulting 720p output over HDMI. So, there seems to be a problem with the deinterlacing on the VP30, at least on my unit. I will call DVDO tomorrow...

Lars, just as a test can you try the DVD player's S-video output to the VP30? Other people have been raving about the VP30's performance with cable 480i S-video. I'm wondering if perhaps your VP30 has a defect with its component inputs? If you get the same problem over S-video, we can rule that out.

Are you sure you have the de-interlacer set properly? What mode do you have it set to?

For example what modes are you talking about?

Lars, just as a test can you try the DVD player's S-video output to the VP30? Other people have been raving about the VP30's performance with cable 480i S-video. I'm wondering if perhaps your VP30 has a defect with its component inputs? If you get the same problem over S-video, we can rule that out.

Here are two snapshots to illustrate what I see on component in with 480i vs 480p : http://www.pbase.com/lars158/vp30

I will give it a try using s-video tomorrow to see if this is a particular problem only on the component inputs... but if was really a problem with the component inputs I would expect the same noise on the 480p over component, so to me it seems to be related to the deinterlacing.

I agree that the Iscan HD+ have wonderful deinterlacing. My iScan HD+ configuration was 480i/576i component input from DVD with 720p DVI output and the result was really great! (I was hoping for the same excellent results with the VP30). I am sure this is some kind of defect (be it sw or hw) as the noise is definitely not on an acceptable level... :(

For example what modes are you talking about?
My guess would be Film Mode.

Input Adjust>Film Mode>(Off-Film Bias-Auto)

Which one do you have it set at?

Those pics have the look of a flag reading problem.

My guess would be Film Mode.

Input Adjust>Film Mode>(Off-Film Bias-Auto)

Which one do you have it set at?

Those pics have the look of a flag reading problem.

I will check it out tonight when I get home. It should be set to Auto but I will double check. The HD+ was set to auto and worked fine.

I did notice that I can achieve the same effect when the HD-TiVo is connected to the TV or HD+ by pausing the HD-TiVo which shows only show 1 field. Hopefully I will be able to talk to someone at DVDo tomorrow and they will be able to correct the problem.

I got my VP30 hooked up today and almost all is well. Transfer of SDI unit went very smoothly. Only installation problem I had was in order to get an image at all I first had to do a hardware reset to factory defaults and then could set the output to my display. A small but nice improvement in overall image quality, part of which may be because I'm now able to use a higher quality component cable.

But now for the ugly: the remote is nearly worthless. As others have commented it only works out to about 7 feet reasonably reliably and beyond 8.5 feet won't work at all. Sitting 12 feet away, I can't quite stretch my arm to 7 feet.

What gives? And other than using a universal remote, is there any way to fix this problem? The HD/HD+ remote also is limited to the same distance with the VP30 but worked out to about 14 feet with the HD+.

My guess would be Film Mode.

Input Adjust>Film Mode>(Off-Film Bias-Auto)

Which one do you have it set at?

Those pics have the look of a flag reading problem.

I just checked and the film mode is grayed out for every input resolution except 480i.

I agree. The remote is practically useless compared to HD+ remote. You have to be no more than 6-7' away from the unit for it to work. BTW has anybody tried 480i from HDMI in 59AVi to VP30? It is not passing BTB. What am I doing wrong? Does 59AVi pass BTB only in 480p & above?

again, just subjective, but the S-vid from my cable tuner looked great last night - but I was watching the ESPN-HD game (in sd) - given a good cable signal in, the VP-30 gave me a picture that made me happy I spent all that money. OTOH, I don't have any ota test patterns to look at, to see if I have all the problems mentioned above. I could run Avia, but dvds usually look a lot better than cable - at least mine do.

as far as the remote - is there a category for worse than useless - my Holmes electric space heater has a better one. Mine won't even work from 4 foot unless I conciously aim it - 20 degrees off axis and it is a no go.

Here are two snapshots to illustrate what I see on component in with 480i vs 480p : http://www.pbase.com/lars158/vp30

I will give it a try using s-video tomorrow to see if this is a particular problem only on the component inputs... but if was really a problem with the component inputs I would expect the same noise on the 480p over component, so to me it seems to be related to the deinterlacing.

I agree that the Iscan HD+ have wonderful deinterlacing. My iScan HD+ configuration was 480i/576i component input from DVD with 720p DVI output and the result was really great! (I was hoping for the same excellent results with the VP30). I am sure this is some kind of defect (be it sw or hw) as the noise is definitely not on an acceptable level... :(

I tested with s-video input this morning and the noise is not there... so, it appears the noise is only present when I feed the VP30 with 480i/576i over component...

Can anyone comment if the 480i issue appears to be strictly related to the component inputs, or if it applies to SDI as well (which is always 480/576i)?

I.e. is algorithmic or input-specific?

-John

Can anyone comment if the 480i issue appears to be strictly related to the component inputs, or if it applies to SDI as well (which is always 480/576i)?

I.e. is algorithmic or input-specific?

-John

John, I do not have SDI, but I have tested 480i/576i input over component and s-video, and I only get the noise over component, so the issue I have seems to be input related (and is possible an issue only on my unit since no one else have reported it)... I will call technical support once they open this morning to see if they can advise.

I agree. The remote is practically useless compared to HD+ remote. You have to be no more than 6-7' away from the unit for it to work. BTW has anybody tried 480i from HDMI in 59AVi to VP30? It is not passing BTB. What am I doing wrong? Does 59AVi pass BTB only in 480p & above?

480i via HDMI works fine for me. I tried it with the Classe DVD player, a new Oppo DVD player and my JVC D-Theater deck. All of them did fine.

I just checked and the film mode is grayed out for every input resolution except 480i.

It should be, you aren't going to do Film de-interlacing to a progressive signal?? And DVDO already said they aren't doing film based de-interlacing to a 1080i signal.

I can comment on SDI 480i signal and I have not seen a noise problem at all. Terrific PQ using SDI + VP30 into Panny AE900.

Ron

For those that traded in their HD+, or any other iScan equipment toward the purchase of the VP30:

Sent my HD+ Friday to DVDO(overnight from my area-SF bay area), and I just got an email stating my credit card has been credited the amount of the trade-in.

To say I am impressed doesn't really do it justice. Flabbergasted might be a better term. :D

In any case, I want to give kudos to DVDO for their fantastic and speedy customer service, outstanding. You guys keep making the good product and I will be buying it. :) :)

So here are pics of the same HDNet test pattern. One from the HD+ and one from the VP30. Both were input at 1080i and output at 1080i over HDMI.

For what it's worth I thought I'd see if I could reproduce your problem by sending 1080i from my VP30 to my 720p set. Low and behold I got the same results as you. The HDNet Pattern sent from my HDTivo at 1080i to the VP30 looks great when the VP30 converts it to 720p, but exhibits the same blockiness / line inversion you are seeing when sent at 1080i. I sent my HD+ back to DVDO already so I can't fire it up for comparison.

- Collin

I talked to DVDO today and they said that there is a bug in the firmware causing the 1080i issues. They told me they might have a firmware update by tomorrow, but definitely will have a firmware update by Christmas to address the issue. It will be posted on their website as soon as it's available.

I talked to DVDO today and they said that there is a bug in the firmware causing the 1080i issues. They told me they might have a firmware update by tomorrow, but definitely will have a firmware update by Christmas to address the issue. It will be posted on their website as soon as it's available.

Allow me to speak for everyone here:

WE LOVE YOU, DVDO!!

anybody still waiting for their vp30 like me?

Yep, still waiting for mine from AVS. I got an e-mail on the credit charge a few days ago, but haven't heard anything more on shippng, etc. I'm sure the delay has to do with DVDO sending them to AVS first and then out to those of us who pre-ordered at the great powerbuy price. I don't mind a few days. The price was great and I wanted to support AVS for all they do.

Ray

Yep, I am . Placed through AVS and I have not received the shipping EMAIL yet.

Not sure what the delay is. Surely, they should have received them by now.

I was hoping to receive before Christmas, so I would have time to play with it. Time gets tight right after Christmas with all of the family stuff to do - put things together, parties, etc.

I'm really impressed with the prompt product support and great customer service I'm reading about in this thread. :)

anybody still waiting for their vp30 like me?
:)
Me too. "All I want for Christmas is my VP30!" :)

We have identified a bug with 1080i input signals, when the output is set to 1080i.

We do have software available that can be installed into the VP30 to correct this problem. We will have this software on the website in the next few days, but if you would like it now please send me an email (Josh@dvdo.com) and I will get it to you with the installation instructions.

Just to be clear, if you are not using 1080i as the output resolution from your VP30, you do not need this software (or rather, you do not have this bug).

Thanks for the quick response!

:)
Me too. "All I want for Christmas is my VP30!" :)

Yep - still waiting - bought myself a VP30 and a SL500 for Christmas - got
the SL over the weekend - now if I can only get my VP30 :-)

I ordered within hours of the special AVS promo - requested overnight shipping -
and still don't have any tracking info.

Has AVS received their VP30s yet?

I don't know about other folks on the thread, but I'd rather wait and recieve a VP30 that has the kinks worked out. I feel bad for those that are in possession and having issues. I can deal with a delay if it means a more stable unit...my HDTV isn't going anywhere. Price you pay for the price we've paid ;).

Thanks Josh for the news on 1080i><1080i, you guys are great

I don't think dealers have received theirs yet or they are just now starting to get them

-Gary

I don't know about other folks on the thread, but I'd rather wait and recieve a VP30 that has the kinks worked out. I feel bad for those that are in possession and having issues. I can deal with a delay if it means a more stable unit...my HDTV isn't going anywhere. Price you pay for the price we've paid ;).


Looking at the state of HD, it'll might be a long wait for anything related to AV and/or HD to work anywhere close to bug-free.

Geeks rejoice - your prayers were answered! The days of plug and play, error and bug free connectivity are finally over. :)

Truth be told - it is sometimes fun and always educational to find a bug in a product, prove it exists, localize it to the product, and have it fixed. Beats finding a bug in a "mainstream" product and learning that they really don't care.

Sweet! I just updated the firmware and it seems to have corrected the 1080i issue. The HDNet pattern on the VP30 now looks like it does with the HD+ at 1080i output.
Thanks again for the quick response.

Sweet! I just updated the firmware and it seems to have corrected the 1080i issue. The HDNet pattern on the VP30 now looks like it does with the HD+ at 1080i output.
Thanks again for the quick response.

Alright - congratulations!

Whoops! I spoke too soon. It corrects the problem but intermittently. It will be fine for about 20seconds and then revert back to the old way for 10 to 20 seconds and then switch back to the corrected way for around 15 to 20 seconds etc.

Ok it seems to be fine as long as I output at 59.94 Hz and not 60Hz. That was one of the things I messed around with prior to the update to see if it made a difference which it didn't before the update. I guess as long as it is at 59.94Hz it will be fine. I looked at it for 2 minutes and didn't see any problems.

The drama!

I'm glad you got it working though -- that **** would've had me baffled.

Now we need to know how to send the 1080p signal thru VGA to the new Samsungs. A friend had a cable he lent to me, but I think I will need precise, step by step instructions about what to do.

I had the same question...I used the avs search engine and found a ton of info. Most said technically yes an SDI path should be better. I recently compared and commented in another thread that if pushed to give a percentage change it would be 10%....increase in detail, enhanced sharpness and 3 dimensionality. It's more of a tweak IMO. But, run a search and read what others have said.
Thanks Ron and others for the replies regarding HDMI vs SDI. Been away from the forum for a few days and catching up. Lots of activity in this thread. Based on the replies I think I will hold off on SDI and give the HDMI path a try first.

Ok it seems to be fine as long as I output at 59.94 Hz and not 60Hz. That was one of the things I messed around with prior to the update to see if it made a difference which it didn't before the update. I guess as long as it is at 59.94Hz it will be fine. I looked at it for 2 minutes and didn't see any problems.

Great! Now where is my tracking number :-)

What are the odds AVS pre-order folks will get their order by Christmas Eve? How about New Year's? :(

I'm still enjoying the VP30 and am glad that I upgraded. I am very pleased with DVDO and its products and services (for me, out of the box, the performance of the VP30 seems so much better than the HD+--haven't had to do a lot of tweaking).

However, I'm still curious if Josh has any comments on the remote issue.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Even though I have a Logitech 880 remote, I'm having a few minor problems getting everything to work correctly with the VP30.

My main issue is this. When I use the "Watch TV" activity setting on the 880, the TV, Motorola HD cable box, and VP30 all get turned on correctly. However, a few seconds in, as the TV is warming up, the VP30's light goes from solid blue to blinking blue and stays blinking blue.

My only solution so far to that is to use the VP30 remote, getting very close to the TV, and put the VP30 on standby. I then push the ON button on the VP30 remote. The VP30's light goes from off to momentarily red to solid blue. However, my picture on the TV is usually weird. About half of the normal right side of the picture is on the left, then there's a black bar in the center and then there's most of the left side of the picture. My solution to this is to change channels on my HD cable box and then the picture comes in okay.

Anyone have any idea what's going on or how to fix it? VP30 menu setting?

This worked perfectly before with the HD+ in the system. The only differences now are the VP30 and the use of an HDMI (from VP30) to DVI (to Sony) cable, which I got from DVDO with the VP30. My Sony Grand Wega KF-50WE610 does not have a HDMI input. With the HD+, I went DVI to DVI.

Thanks!

- Gerry

What are the odds AVS pre-order folks will get their order by Christmas Eve? How about New Year's? :(

According to anonymous sources, Calibre thought that it had the adVantage in shipping new video processors but realized, too late, that DVDO not only had an "HD" unit, but also the "HD+" and now a "VP30". After considering renaming the V-HD the V-"Prez" (also considered: "PM" and "Diety"), Calibre decided to send a rogue set of units to AVS to take out the VP30s on arrival.

Algolith, catching word of Calibre's plans, sent in its forces aboard its new "DragonFly" (some reports indicate that several secret "Mosquito HDMIs" could be seen overhead).

The result was mayhem. The rogue V-HDs all had their circuit boards ripped out, and the DragonFly crashed (or may have been shot down) while attempting to land. The VP30s suffered some damage and were forced to retreat with blue lights flashing; however, they are expected to regroup and redeploy very soon.

The Mosquito HDMI is missing and is reportedly seeking shelter with Elvis.

Further reports to come as this intense situation develops.

I'm already looking ahead to next year and will plan on upgrading to the VP40. As long as DVDO keeps their generous upgrade program and excellent support, I will definitely stick with them.

have you guys tried to save the output display profile to all 4 custom display profiles?

If it's set up to automatic, bad timing could explain it.

Also, try playing with HDMI output polarity and see if that makes any difference.

stlblufan : You had me going for atleast 2 lines, shows us how far things have gone *grin* anyway i can report that some of the missing vp30's have escaped to europe and atleast one of them has found shelter in my home as of today. Ill report on how she is feeling in a few hours.

aaronwt: Its still not known if it will be called the vp40 or if it will be a new model. Thats something we (this forum) made up i don't think we have seen any hints from dvdo if its true. After seeing the inside of the vp30 i think its not a bad bet we will see a small print with the result of Dale's work to be installed like the sdi card. (see some of the images posted and the large connector near the 504.

Daniel.

However, my picture on the TV is usually weird. About half of the normal right side of the picture is on the left, then there's a black bar in the center and then there's most of the left side of the picture. My solution to this is to change channels on my HD cable box and then the picture comes in okay.

I have this same problem. The black bar on my screen is in the form of an "L" turned on its back, and it masks about a third of the screen when present. As you indicated, the only way I have been able to get rid of it is to change channels on the cable box (mine is the SA8300HD). And I'm using all HDMI.

Thanks gentlemen. I know it's simple; just needed to know if the VP30 used the same method to switch between YUV and RGB.

Phil.

Yes i can now confirm that the hd+ and vp30 do the same thing. I just tested a scart+composite cable without any problem on 576i signals.

Greetings,

Daniel.

However, I'm still curious if Josh has any comments on the remote issue.

- Gerry

Good question. Is there anyone not experiencing the short-ranged remote issue? Sounds like an IR receiver problem, actually.

anybody still waiting for their vp30 like me?
I ordered mine Nov. 11 at their online website and haven't received mine yet. The website claims that the vp30 is now shipping and that orders will be filled the same day. So anyone seeking to purchase online expecting quick delivery should beware.

Good question. Is there anyone not experiencing the short-ranged remote issue? Sounds like an IR receiver problem, actually.

Its a receiver problem for sure, ive tested it with a ir extender and that solved all the problems. Weird for sure seems to me the new 'window' inside the case is part of the problem. Anyway if its really a problem use a $15 ir extended with its target light close to the window of the vp30.

Daniel.

I ordered mine Nov. 11 at their online website and haven't received mine yet. The website claims that the vp30 is now shipping and that orders will be filled the same day. So anyone seeking to purchase online expecting quick delivery should beware.

not to busy your chops, but many of us have been waiting since September - I received mine last Friday, but had ordered in middle of September. Just remember - good things come to those who wait :D

Good question. Is there anyone not experiencing the short-ranged remote issue? Sounds like an IR receiver problem, actually.

I'm now using an IR sensor directly on my VP30 (use a URC MX3000 with an RF station). However, even with this setup, the VP30 sometimes misses an IR command. Definitely does not work as well as my iSCAN HD did. SJ

Its a receiver problem for sure, ive tested it with a ir extender and that solved all the problems. Weird for sure seems to me the new 'window' inside the case is part of the problem. Anyway if its really a problem use a $15 ir extended with its target light close to the window of the vp30.

Daniel.
This jives with what I discovered while playing around last night. I believe the IR receiver in the case is too recessed to allow anything other than an almost straight on angle to have it work. I use an IR extender setup as well, and even with the extender block attached just to side of the IR receiver on the VP30 I still had problems. Just for fun, I attached the extender block right over the IR window on the VP30 facing it directly at the window with a piece of scotch tape. Bingo! It now works from almost any distance, I tried at 25' plus, and at any angle that the IR extender pickup eye could "see". This was with both the VP30 remote and the Harmony 880.

That little experiment(which will be my functioning resolution with a little more detail paid to the actual attachment) leads me to believe the IR receiver on the VP30 is just mounted too recessed in the case and/or the cover of the window is restricting anything but a straight on shot.

Even though I have a Logitech 880 remote, I'm having a few minor problems getting everything to work correctly with the VP30.


I'm using a 880 as well and so far have not been successful in getting the power on/off squared away. The Harmony site has some issues with the Power and Standby commands from the VP30 remote, even when learning in RAW mode. I'm going to give it another shot today, keep us posted on how you progress as well.

the IR prism might be helpful:

http://www.hometech.com/infrared/emitters.html#AT-IRPRISM

several different versions available from various companies

According to anonymous sources, .........<


Very funny, thanks for the laugh... :D

I'm now using an IR sensor directly on my VP30 (use a URC MX3000 with an RF station). However, even with this setup, the VP30 sometimes misses an IR command. Definitely does not work as well as my iSCAN HD did. SJ
Have you tried placing the repeater directly over the the eye in the VP30?

If it comes to that; would it be possible to open the case and carefully move the IR sensor closer to the window inside the VP30? Or is it a LED thingy soldered to the board and can't be nudged/moved?

If it comes to that; would it be possible to open the case and carefully move the IR sensor closer to the window inside the VP30? Or is it a LED thingy soldered to the board and can't be nudged/moved?
It would be much safer and saner to just use a repeater or maybe a device like the IR Prism Mark Rubin posted a link to.

these are even better:

SpeakerCraft ILC-1.0

http://shop.store.yahoo.com/legacy2/spilinst.html

Hai,

yes please don't take my comments as a hint to take your vp30 apart hehe, lets see what dvdo has to say on the topic. My comment was more that if this is the worst problem it can be fixed for cheap in a non warrenty breaking way.

On the topic of the displays it seems they changed the lcd at the last moment it doesn't look like the one of the website and seems to be allways off when you are not in the menu. Also the led can't be turned off anymore (just low). The manual still talks about a led off in some areas so its kinda weird i only see 2 sliders that set the level of output.

Daniel.

For those of you that have moved from a HD+ to a VP 30.......

Have you found that the picture quality settings you had on the HD+ work just as well on the VP30 or are you going to have to do some re-adjustment or even calibrate again?

Have you found that the picture quality settings you had on the HD+ work just as well on the VP30 or are you going to have to do some re-adjustment or even calibrate again?

What I am about to post won't directly answer your question, but it will give you some info.

Kris Deernig and I fed a Tekronix SDI signal generator and YC/Composite generator into the Composite, YC, Y'PbPr and SDI inputs of the VP30. We first used the built-in test pattern to check the outupt levels into a Tek DPO3052. Once we had done that we fed the same pattern (100% and 75% bars) into the VP30 and looked at the outputs. The picture controls for all inputs were all defaulted to the correct levels. (sans YC delay)

The above just states that they meet spec. Given that the output of your DVD player probably does not, you will need to adjust.

I have not done with this the HD or HD+.

Also, it looks like a setting of 5 or 6 seems to be about right for the YC delay. This was by eye based on a given DVD player and a couple of displays. We really need to use a bowtie but because of MPEG decoders sometimes using MPEG1 instead of MPEG2 style cositing, I can't trust any of the encoded bowties. I will create one to test shortly in VC1 and verify it where I have 100% control.

What I am about to post won't directly answer your question, but it will give you some info.

Kris Deernig and I fed a Tekronix SDI signal generator and YC/Composite generator into the Composite, YC, Y'PbPr and SDI inputs of the VP30. We first used the built-in test pattern to check the outupt levels into a Tek DPO3052. Once we had done that we fed the same pattern (100% and 75% bars) into the VP30 and looked at the outputs. The picture controls for all inputs were all defaulted to the correct levels. (sans YC delay)

The above just states that they meet spec. Given that the output of your DVD player probably does not, you will need to adjust.


This sounds like you have a review of the vp30 soon is that right ?

Daniel.

For those of you that have moved from a HD+ to a VP 30.......

Have you found that the picture quality settings you had on the HD+ work just as well on the VP30 or are you going to have to do some re-adjustment or even calibrate again?

Generally, yes the HD+ settings work, though I have not yet done a full calibration. A few controls were different, notably the overscan setting on my HDTivo which changed from DVI in to HDMI in. Also controls like the Y/C delay have changed their scale so they may need tweaking. I'm also suspicious that my audio delay setting is no longer precise though it's very close. I will have to measure it sometime.

- Collin

This sounds like you have a review of the vp30 soon is that right ?

I am sure Kris will have one.

The YC delay used to function in 1/2 pixel increments. Not is works in 1/32 of a pixel, I believe.

Have you tried placing the repeater directly over the the eye in the VP30?

That's where it is. I'm now adjusting the IR output going to receiver. Seems to work better. Thanks. SJ

For those of you that have moved from a HD+ to a VP 30.......

Have you found that the picture quality settings you had on the HD+ work just as well on the VP30 or are you going to have to do some re-adjustment or even calibrate again?
I needed to move my sharpness to 2 to be the equivalent of the HD+ .
The HD+ outputs at RGB so the VP30 would have to be set the same to make a comparison.
I am wondering if I should set the output to 4:2:2 for the 10bit output, 4:4:4 for leave it at RGB?
For now I' have to leave it at RGB since my set was calibrated wiith the HD+. Hopefully I'll be able to get a visit from Eliab again to have it calibrated with the VP30 attached.

I should mention that the HDMI output of the VP30 is good to go at 422 and 444. They bypassed the 9030 processing and do their own color conversion

Yes i can now confirm that the hd+ and vp30 do the same thing. I just tested a scart+composite cable without any problem on 576i signals.

Greetings,

Daniel.

Thanks Daniel for confirming that.

Phil.

It would be much safer and saner to just use a repeater or maybe a device like the IR Prism Mark Rubin posted a link to.

Hmmm . . . personally I don't mind spending a few bucks to get a solution for the remote issue, but anything beyond that might prove a "conundrum" for me.

On one hand I got a great discount from ordering through this forum and a nice trade-in from DVDO. So if I invested in something, I'd still be ahead. I'm fortunate that I can afford to add extra equipment. And I don't want DVDO to suffer badly for what might be a simple oversight or mistake--they've given me great products and service.

But, on the other hand, investing in a repeater or a device like the IR prism to make up for what MIGHT possibly prove to be a design flaw---the "consumer advocate" in me could have an issue with that.

And I'd only be using the new device for the VP30--most of the rest of my equipment doesn't need it--and it's in racks with perforated metal screens. The VP30 is in the open with my HD cable box on a shelf under my Sony TV.

On the other hand, with the holidays, I could use the extra exercise in getting up to get to the VP30 IR sensor sweet spot . . . ;)

- Gerry

Gerry,
This is a perfect time for you to upgrade to a RF remote like the mx-600 or something similar. That way since you already need to use one ir repeater, you might as well convert your whole system to RF. Imagine, not even having to point your remote anymore, it's great! Took me awhile to remember that you don't have to point the remote at the equipment anymore, and it is great being able to control everything from any room in the house! just a thought.....
Best,
Chris

I already don't have to point my IR Harmony 680 remote. The VP30 is the only item I need to point it at. Everything else and the remote can be facing almost any direction and it will still work.

the IR prism might be helpful:

http://www.hometech.com/infrared/emitters.html#AT-IRPRISM

several different versions available from various companies

Do you need to buy anything else to make this device work? Will it work without the flood emitter?
Javry

Do you need to buy anything else to make this device work? Will it work without the flood emitter?
Javry

I don't have the VP-30 but these prisims are intended to address the problem that is reported here: it should help the IR response but we really need someone to try one: the flood emitter may not be required


I don't use the prisims anymore since going to an RF remote control system that uses RS232 and/or IR emitters: my HT has a 63 inch plasma and LCD displays that throw out so much IR noise it made direct IR control unreliable


(I have some extra prisims for anyone nearby: PM me)

Sorry for a silly question but what sync 1 and sync 2 inputs are used for and how?

Thanks,

VN2000

For those who pre-oredered from AVS as did I :

I have got my FEDEX tracking number with deliver tomorrow ( I requested
overnight ). I was one of the very first to pre-order...

Sorry for a silly question but what sync 1 and sync 2 inputs are used for and how?

Thanks,

VN2000

The sync inputs allow you to add a sync to a signal, for example if you feed a rgb signal you can add the sync there. A good use is for example in europe where scart connector is used alot and scart->rgb cables provide the 3 colors and a composite cable feeds the needed sync. I use this on a HD+ and now VP30.


tony: Good to see avs orders got delayed you got it so cheap makes sense to me to get back at you by adding a small delay. Pity they will ship before xmas ;)

Daniel.

I've searched through many of the 2910/3910 comparison threads and couldn't find any specific information about whether the PQ differences hold true in the SDI context. I'm looking at DVDO's bundle of the VP30 and the 2910, but if the 3910 will provide better PQ I'll go for it (build quality and audio are not a big issue for me).

Thanks for feedback.

tony: Good to see avs orders got delayed you got it so cheap makes sense to me to get back at you by adding a small delay. Pity they will ship before xmas ;)

Daniel.


Thanks! ( I think :-)

But, on the other hand, investing in a repeater or a device like the IR prism to make up for what MIGHT possibly prove to be a design flaw---the "consumer advocate" in me could have an issue with that.


I agree, but given what would seem to be a rather complex procedure to "fix" the receiver eye location on the VP30, using a relatively inexpensive device like Mark posted or a IR repeater setup(I think I paid under $100 for mine with about 12-device capability), IMO, is a much smoother road to go. I don't see how this problem could be fixed without a return of the unit to DVDO. Plus, with a repeater setup you can put your equipment anywhere. I'm of the camp that I don't want any distracting lights or LEDs in my field of vision when viewing content and the repeater setup allows me to cover all those distractions.


Which brings me to a question. On the HD+ there was the ability for the power LED to go dark after the unit had been on for a few minutes, on the VP30 I have not seen a way to do this. I see the settings in the Config menu for VFD for brightness and off, but nothing to control the power LED. Anyone see something I'm missing? Is there a way do it?

My current setup is to use a Gefen DVI switcher to connect a PowerMac (running 1080p) and Sharp AVC box to a Sharp LCD panel, and I have a Comcast 6412 Phase III sending HDMI through the AVC box. I'm wondering how the introduction of the VP30 would change how I do things.

Should I use an HDMI to DVI cable to send a signal from the VP30 directly to the LCD, and connect everything else thorugh the VP30 (including using another DVI to HDMI cable to send the PowerMac signal directly into the VP30)?

Should I instead keep the Gefen box "next" to the panel and send the VP30 output into the Gefen box, so the PowerMac will be more closely connected to the panel? I assume that in light of the current firmware issue with the VP30 being unable to pass 1080p through, I have no choice but do this for the time being.

Any other alternatives?

That said, for content being played off my PowerMac, will there be any way to pass that through the VP30 and have it work it's magic instead of having the PowerMac do the scaling? Would I need to somehow figure out a way to be passing the DVI signal to the VP30 at a resolution consistent with the content I'm watching, or is it simply impossible?

Or, an interesting possibly, should I buy an SDI breakout box of some sort (like from http://www.blackmagic-design.com) and pass that into the VP30? But if I did that, what player would I be using, since I assume VLC would not be able to send a signal directly to the SDI port?

I apologize in advance that this post goes a bit OT strictly speaking, but it is after all the VP30 that is at the center of these questions.

Thanks.

Thank you Danielo for your explanation.

VN2000

I agree, but given what would seem to be a rather complex procedure to "fix" the receiver eye location on the VP30, using a relatively inexpensive device like Mark posted or a IR repeater setup(I think I paid under $100 for mine with about 12-device capability), IMO, is a much smoother road to go. I don't see how this problem could be fixed without a return of the unit to DVDO. Plus, with a repeater setup you can put your equipment anywhere. I'm of the camp that I don't want any distracting lights or LEDs in my field of vision when viewing content and the repeater setup allows me to cover all those distractions.


Which brings me to a question. On the HD+ there was the ability for the power LED to go dark after the unit had been on for a few minutes, on the VP30 I have not seen a way to do this. I see the settings in the Config menu for VFP for brightness and off, but nothing to control the power LED. Anyone see something I'm missing? Is there a way do it?

Mine goes dark. I'll have to check the settings tonight.

Mine goes dark. I'll have to check the settings tonight.
Really..? Okay, then I obviously do not have something set right.

Mine goes dark as well. I noticed because when Kris brought his over he complained that his never went dark and had resorted to black tape. :)

Mine goes dark as well. I noticed because when Kris brought his over he complained that his never went dark and had resorted to black tape. :)
That's was to be my very next move.. :D

But it is nice to be able to get the info that the unit is handling the signal before it goes dark.

So did you set it to do that, or, has it done from the get go..?

For those who pre-oredered from AVS as did I :

I have got my FEDEX tracking number with deliver tomorrow ( I requested
overnight ). I was one of the very first to pre-order...


Glad to here that! I was also a very early pre-order and asked for 2-day so maybe I'll get it Friday (I hope!). Can't check my email till I get home tonight - if I can stand the wait!

Mike

I just got my tracking # from AVS too for Friday delivery. I guess they are in a major shipping mode right now and trying to get them all out.

Ray

Quick question -- if my HDMI output supports 4:2:2 (10 bit) or 4:4:4 (8 bit), which should I use? Or should I leave it set to AUTO (i.e. does HDMI negotiate the format with the TV)?

-JMW

John

Output of what? iScan or source? The output of the iScan supports YCbCr 422 and 44 as well as RGB. All three work well.

If your speaking about your DVD player source, then I would try the 422 mode first as it may produce the best results.

SJHT:

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_11_4/gefen-hdtv-repeater-10-2004.html

my bet is that the VP30 doesn't put out as much voltage as the HD unit(they are also different outputs hdmi vs DVI)

you are going to be running into trouble with that 30 Foot cable no matter the output device, most folks say 15 feet is pushing it, I would be willing to bet you will have trouble without a repeater

-Gary

Just fyi, the 30' HDMI/DVI cable from ram works perfect. Not sure if I might have issues in the future with this, but it works great now! Thanks.

Sorry, should have been more clear!

I have a DVD with an SDI output and a Motorola 6412p3 HD cable DVR, both connected to a VP30, which outputs HDMI to a Mits 62725 DLP RPTV.

What would be the best output setting from the VP30 to the Mits TV via HDMI?

-John

Which brings me to a question. On the HD+ there was the ability for the power LED to go dark after the unit had been on for a few minutes, on the VP30 I have not seen a way to do this. I see the settings in the Config menu for VFD for brightness and off, but nothing to control the power LED. Anyone see something I'm missing? Is there a way do it?

In the Configuration menu, there is an option for "LED Brightness" which lets you adjust the brightness of the LED for both when you are actively adjusting the VP30 and when it is in normal usage (i.e., when you aren't mucking with the settings). Mine came preset to "1" for both, but setting it to "0" for normal usage will make it go off. I think.

The other possibility is that page 30 of the manual mentions something called "System Settings." One setting is for "Power LED," and the options are (i) ON, (ii) OFF and (iii) AUTO. The latter setting was what I had my HD+ set to in order to make it turn off after 30 seconds or so. Offhand I don't recall having seen this menu on the VP30 but I'll check tonight.

What I do know is that somehow I was able to make the LED turn off while watching programming. Or perhaps I just didn't notice the LED? It definitely isn't as bright as the one on the HD+.

- I need some quick help regarding the international upgrade program:

On the DVDO international upgrade page, it states:

Once your iScan VP30 arrives, you will have 30 days to return your old iScan unit for trade-in credit. The RMA# and full instructions for returning your old iScan will be sent to you. As soon as we receive your old unit, you will receive instant credit in the appropriate amount against your credit card.

I'm now thinking I may have misunderstood this sentence. I have always been under the impression that the VP30 will arrive at my place first, and that I then have 30 days to return the old iScan. But now I've been in contact with my local dealer, and they tell me to return my old iScan HD first, then they'll send me the VP30 afterwards.

Which is right?

- I need some quick help regarding the international upgrade program:

On the DVDO international upgrade page, it states:

Once your iScan VP30 arrives, you will have 30 days to return your old iScan unit for trade-in credit. The RMA# and full instructions for returning your old iScan will be sent to you. As soon as we receive your old unit, you will receive instant credit in the appropriate amount against your credit card.

I'm now thinking I may have misunderstood this sentence. I have always been under the impression that the VP30 will arrive at my place first, and that I then have 30 days to return the old iScan. But now I've been in contact with my local dealer, and they tell me to return my old iScan HD first, then they'll send me the VP30 afterwards.

Which is right?
I don't know about international sales, but in the USA, you get the VP30 and then have 30 days to return the HD.

This question would be best answered by the folks at DVDO.

In the Configuration menu, there is an option for "LED Brightness" which lets you adjust the brightness of the LED for both when you are actively adjusting the VP30 and when it is in normal usage (i.e., when you aren't mucking with the settings). Mine came preset to "1" for both, but setting it to "0" for normal usage will make it go off. I think.

The other possibility is that page 30 of the manual mentions something called "System Settings." One setting is for "Power LED," and the options are (i) ON, (ii) OFF and (iii) AUTO. The latter setting was what I had my HD+ set to in order to make it turn off after 30 seconds or so. Offhand I don't recall having seen this menu on the VP30 but I'll check tonight.

What I do know is that somehow I was able to make the LED turn off while watching programming.
I tried all the different settings to no avail. That part on page 30 seems to have been lifted from the HD+ manual as there is no such application in the VP30 menu, as far as I can see anyway...

At this point there is no ability to turn off the Status LED on the front panel of the VP30. The controls which are in the Configuration menu, control the front panel display backlight.

Thanks Josh, that confirms exactly what I have experienced.

Soo...black tape it is!! :p :D

has anyone with the vp30 hooked up hdmi with the scientific atlanta 8300hd (hddvr) and had sucess with audio output. i get a picture no problem but i cannot get sound thru the hdmi option i have to hook up a optical audio out from the box to get audio. any advice? thanks
-rob

Anyone using the VP30 with a Panny AE900? If so I'm wondering if anyone has 1:1 pixel mapping working yet, and if so any comments on getting it setup.

jcg

- I need some quick help regarding the international upgrade program:

On the DVDO international upgrade page, it states:

Once your iScan VP30 arrives, you will have 30 days to return your old iScan unit for trade-in credit. The RMA# and full instructions for returning your old iScan will be sent to you. As soon as we receive your old unit, you will receive instant credit in the appropriate amount against your credit card.

I'm now thinking I may have misunderstood this sentence. I have always been under the impression that the VP30 will arrive at my place first, and that I then have 30 days to return the old iScan. But now I've been in contact with my local dealer, and they tell me to return my old iScan HD first, then they'll send me the VP30 afterwards.

Which is right?

In our country we get support from the local dealer but im 99% sure its after you get the unit. Mail dvdo about it i doubt it will be a problem. Also find it a little weird that its 30 days for international and 60 days for usa. As a example ive got my vp30 2 days ago and don't plan on sending the hd+ back before 2006 :).

So just ask doubt it will be a problem, also i would not be shocked we are the only 2 who got units under this deal sofar and things are still abit in flux.

Daniel.

has anyone with the vp30 hooked up hdmi with the scientific atlanta 8300hd (hddvr) and had sucess with audio output. i get a picture no problem but i cannot get sound thru the hdmi option i have to hook up a optical audio out from the box to get audio. any advice? thanks
-rob

I have the SA8300HD and have been able to do this (thought I use optical in application because my pre/pro doesn't have an HDMI input).

There are a bunch of variables here: what software does your SA8300 run, SARA or Passport? If Passport like mine, you may have recently received a software upgrade that added an "HDMI" option to the SETTINGS/MORE SETTINGS/DIGITAL AUDIO menu. If so, select it and you should get audio via HDMI.

More information in the SA8300 threads located here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=581843) .

Thanks Josh, that confirms exactly what I have experienced.

Soo...black tape it is!! :p :D

well atleast its not very bright led like the ones on the optoma H78/H79 these are so bright they destroy 50% of the blacklevel of the projector. Josh maybe also replace the screenshots of the vp30 on the website it shows a display that imho is not possible with the production unit (since its not a 2 line lcd).

but what does led 'brightness normal' do ? 'brightness navigation' does the lcd when in menu mode but my lcd is allways 100% off when i am not in a menu. reading the manual i do get the feeling it should display something in normal mode.

btw i do like the look of the vp30 alot better than the hd/hd+ its somehow very stealth like.

Daniel.

Is the update for the 1080i to 1080i at the website yet?

Quick question -- if my HDMI output supports 4:2:2 (10 bit) or 4:4:4 (8 bit), which should I use? Or should I leave it set to AUTO (i.e. does HDMI negotiate the format with the TV)?

-JMW

I have mine set for auto, this is the input so I guess it will match the device output. The Output of the VP30 has to be selected from 3 choices. Mine is at RGB right now since my HD+ was calibrated and that is the output of DVI I believe. I'm still trying to find out what is the best output to use with the VP30--RGB(8 bit), 4:2:2(10 bit), or 4:4:4(8 bit).
And I'm also using a Samsung 1080P DLP if that makes a difference.

Glad to here that! I was also a very early pre-order and asked for 2-day so maybe I'll get it Friday (I hope!). Can't check my email till I get home tonight - if I can stand the wait!

Mike

Good luck! Just checked the tracking and it shows it has left N.Y. and is scheduled
to arrive tomorrow in Laguna Niguel, CA...

I can't wait. I have been holding off on various DVDS and am looking forward
to watching many of my DVDS over again!

Gerry,
This is a perfect time for you to upgrade to a RF remote like the mx-600 or something similar. That way since you already need to use one ir repeater, you might as well convert your whole system to RF. Imagine, not even having to point your remote anymore, it's great! Took me awhile to remember that you don't have to point the remote at the equipment anymore, and it is great being able to control everything from any room in the house! just a thought.....
Best,
Chris

Well my Harmony 880 is only a few months old. Was looking at the Home Theater Master's before I got the Logitech. Didn't have a problem with any equipment and their remotes so I didn't see the need for the RF. DRATS!!!!

I agree, but given what would seem to be a rather complex procedure to "fix" the receiver eye location on the VP30, using a relatively inexpensive device like Mark posted or a IR repeater setup(I think I paid under $100 for mine with about 12-device capability), IMO, is a much smoother road to go. I don't see how this problem could be fixed without a return of the unit to DVDO. Plus, with a repeater setup you can put your equipment anywhere. I'm of the camp that I don't want any distracting lights or LEDs in my field of vision when viewing content and the repeater setup allows me to cover all those distractions.
Thanks for the suggestion. After picking up both a new Arcam AVR300 receiver and upgrading to the VP30 this month, and with Christmas expenses, any consideration of making the "IR repeater" plunge will have to wait a bit.

Was hoping for something a lot cheaper than the IR repeater since I only have a problem with the VP30 remote. No problem with any other equipment. Maybe the collector will work. Hopefully someone will try and report back.

- Gerry