Sceptre X37SV-Naga review

[Koui]

I really hope any of you guys with the experience in how to tweak this set to get the most out of it can give me some advice.I'm using a Directv SD-HBH box running Svideo into AV1 on my Sceptre. Here's the tweaks I've made to the factory defaults to make Directv SD look acceptable (to my eyes anyway) :

Video Menu :
Sharpness - 10
Tint - +4

Advanced Menu :
Everything to OFF or 0

System Menu :
Lamp - 0
DCI - OFF

These are the changes to the video adjustments on the Directv box :

Brightness - +5
Contrast - -10
Saturation - +20

I sit between 6-10' back and use 4:3 aspect ratio when watching to minimize compression artifacts.

Hope this helps,
Koui

[jvargasg]

How is it hooked up to SDTV & PS2? Composite or SVideo? Then cant expect much - you are just not taking advantage of the unit. Its still a 480i signal. Until you can get to progressive scan 480p or above via component or DVI/HDMI then you just cant expect a TV like to be better than a CRT that was designed for such a signal.


DirecTV is hooked up thru Svideo and PS2 thru Component, and it does not look good. the difference between composite and Svideo in the direcTV hook up is not even noticeable and I haven't try PS@ with composite since I always use the Componenet cable in my older TV.
I understand this TV is made for higher resolutions but I thought that it would at least look a little better with lower resolutions than a normal TV.
Do you know anything to get this signals to look better on this TV?

[jvargasg]

I'm using a Directv SD-HBH box running Svideo into AV1 on my Sceptre. Here's the tweaks I've made to the factory defaults to make Directv SD look acceptable (to my eyes anyway) :

Video Menu :
Sharpness - 10
Color - 40

Advanced Menu :
Everything to OFF or 0

System Menu :
Lamp - 3
DCI - OFF

I sit between 6-10' back and use 4:3 aspect ratio when watching to minimize compression artifacts.

Hope this helps,
Koui

Thanks for the help, at least is not me the only one hacing this problems.
I have to look into it and see what my setups are, but let me ask you this, what is the advanced menu? how can I get there?
I'll give your settings a try tonight and post the results back tomorrow.

[Koui]

Thanks for the help, at least is not me the only one hacing this problems.
I have to look into it and see what my setups are, but let me ask you this, what is the advanced menu? how can I get there?
I'll give your settings a try tonight and post the results back tomorrow.When you are in AV1 or AV2, pressing the MENU button on the remote brings-up the VIDEO (the word 'Video' labeled in red) menu. Pressing VOL+ scrolls to the ADVANCED, AUDIO, and SYSTEM (all labeled in red) menus. CH- scrolls to the sub-menus under each one and ENTER <---' allows you to change the values. I left all settings at factory default except for the ones I noted.

I'm not having problems with SD on the Sceptre after tweaking. I used 2 Directv boxes and a 34" Sony CRT HDTV. I placed the Sony and Sceptre next to each other, tweaked the Sceptre's settings, and got as close a PQ match as I could while watching the same program on both sets.

[virus2003]

I understand this TV is made for higher resolutions but I thought that it would at least look a little better with lower resolutions than a normal TV.

Yeah, so did I. What an eye opener.. or should I say eye closer. My xbox, ps2, and cube all look entirely and truly disgusting. So, I still play my systems on my 20" mitsubishi crt that is too old for s-video. :rolleyes:

This TV however, is ALL ABOUT my PC gaming. I can't even describe the joy of games at 1920x1080 over DVI. *drool*

PC > console anyway and we all know it! :cool:

David

[Pecs]

I'm not having problems with SD on the Sceptre. I have 2 Directv boxes and a 34" Sony CRT HDTV. I placed the Sony and Sceptre next to each other, tweaked the Sceptre's settings, and got as close a PQ match as I could while watching the same program on both sets.

How would you compare hi-def programming on the Sony CRT and the Sceptre? DVDs? I'm sure the Sony gives better blacks, but I'm curious which (on average) you would prefer for TV watching?

[Neomoon]

With "DTV" as the source, my TV functions identically. But with the NTSC tuner the up/down Favorites buttons cycle through my Favorite channels like up/down channel buttons.

I have yet to try using the Fav. TV buttons on SDTV since I do most of my SDTV viewing via my AIW's TV tuner. I'm pretty confident these buttons will work much the same way they do with your set. When I get home I'll try it out.

[Koui]

How would you compare hi-def programming on the Sony CRT and the Sceptre? DVDs? I'm sure the Sony gives better blacks, but I'm curious which (on average) you would prefer for TV watching?I've had a total of 2 weeks use of two Sceptres and the Sony 34XS955N for about a year.

OTA HD quality (except for black level) is quite similar once I tweaked the Sceptre. SD is a crap shoot on both but I prefer DVDs on the Sceptre. Once I saw a 1:1 pixel match with DVI from a HTPC on the X37, it owned the Sony in resolution, geometry, and WOW factor.

The Sceptre finally allowed me to do what I've been wanting for quite some time...get rid of the 200lb behemoth and seperate computer monitor and roll them into one slim stylish (at least I like the looks) panel.

P.S. The Sony is SOLD!

[Pecs]

I've had a total of 2 weeks use of two Sceptres and the Sony 34XS955N for about a year.

OTA HD quality (except for black level) is quite similar once I tweaked the Sceptre. SD is a crap shoot on both but I prefer DVDs on the Sceptre. Once I saw a 1:1 pixel match with DVI from a HTPC on the X37, it owned the Sony in resolution, geometry, and WOW factor.

The Sceptre finally allowed me to do what I've been wanting for quite some time...get rid of the 200lb behemoth and sperate computer monitor and roll them into one stylish (at least I like the looks) panel.

P.S. The Sony is SOLD!

That is interesting to me, because when buying a set, I was debating between the same two: 34xs955/960 or the sceptre. I ended up getting the sceptre, but part of me always wondered how it would have compared with the sony. Now I can sleep at night.

[Skenzin]

Would putting a HTPC on the VGA port be worth it? Im gonna use the component for xbox360 and was saving the DVI for comcast digital HDTV. I primary would only be using the HTPC for DVDs and Divx playback.

[Neomoon]

Would putting a HTPC on the VGA port be worth it? Im gonna use the component for xbox360 and was saving the DVI for comcast digital HDTV. I primary would only be using the HTPC for DVDs and Divx playback.


I can't honestly say I know what the VGA signal would look like b/c I've only used the DVI connection since I got my computer, but the so called "WOW" factor of the X37 at true 1920x1080 1:1 pixel mapping is unreal and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

I'm currently sitting about 5 feet from the monitor typing this and I am having no trouble at all reading and seeing the text on the screen, and this is with the text at it's default size and not enlarged at all.

[Koui]

Would putting a HTPC on the VGA port be worth it? Im gonna use the component for xbox360 and was saving the DVI for comcast digital HDTV. I primary would only be using the HTPC for DVDs and Divx playback.The VGA port can be used as a second component input with the right cable. I'd put the Comcast and Xbox on component 1 and 2 and the HTPC on DVI. DVDs will look their best with good software like TheaterTek, Zoom, PowerDVD6, etc.

[jpconard]

I see no issue with using VGA with the PC, probably depends on what source you will use the most. VGA takes a little more tweaking but it looks good. I have spent more time using VGA with the v3 set than I did with v1, because v3 set HDMI doesn't work.

My third scheduled for delivery Monday, so I am hoping for the best.

I have been playing King Kong (through Media Center), as well as some HD .ts and of course HD DVR-MS (from TV, 24, Prison Break, Idol, etc.) and all of it looks great.

In my opinion even some SD channels look pretty good. Depends on the channel.

[jay_cee]

Would putting a HTPC on the VGA port be worth it? Im gonna use the component for xbox360 and was saving the DVI for comcast digital HDTV. I primary would only be using the HTPC for DVDs and Divx playback.

You might need to tweak some custom modelines with something like PowerStrip, but it is possible to get a 1:1 mapping with VGA that looks terrific.

[DouglasteR]

Yeah, so did I. What an eye opener.. or should I say eye closer. My xbox, ps2, and cube all look entirely and truly disgusting. So, I still play my systems on my 20" mitsubishi crt that is too old for s-video. :rolleyes:

This TV however, is ALL ABOUT my PC gaming. I can't even describe the joy of games at 1920x1080 over DVI. *drool*

PC > console anyway and we all know it! :cool:

David


Some pics of games on the Scepter will be nice :D

[Trevorm7]

Does it have spdif output if you want to use a reciever but not the crappy speakers it comes with?

[BlackPearl]

SPDIF out is not listed in the manufacturer's specs.

[virus2003]

Some pics of games on the Scepter will be nice :D
Sadly my camera busted two weeks ago :(

I'll see if I can borrow my neighbor's or something. Don't hold your breath.

Meanwhile, maybe someone else that is using it for PC gaming could post a few pics?

EDIT: This review has a few HL2 pics. http://www.hothardware.com/viewarticle.aspx?page=4&articleid=800&cid=2 Nothing too grand looking, but he raves about it. And just to put this in perspective, I do have experience with gaming on LCDs. Ive owned 5 smaller LCD monitors, from 16ms to 2ms response time. This monitor performs like the 8ms it is advertised at :D

[DouglasteR]

Sadly my camera busted two weeks ago :(

I'll see if I can borrow my neighbor's or something. Don't hold your breath.

Meanwhile, maybe someone else that is using it for PC gaming could post a few pics?

EDIT: This review has a few HL2 pics. http://www.hothardware.com/viewarticle.aspx?page=4&articleid=800&cid=2 Nothing too grand looking, but he raves about it. And just to put this in perspective, I do have experience with gaming on LCDs. Ive owned 5 smaller LCD monitors, from 16ms to 2ms response time. This monitor performs like the 8ms it is advertised at :D

Thanks for the help :D

The pics from the review site dont do justice, in the meantime, ill wait for your pics :p

[tlnmp]

The black crush is due to poor grayscale tracking. I've measured
it through the spyder colorimeter. There's too much blue bias and
the color temp is ~12000K. You can fix it on some of the inputs, but I
had to return it because of this. Shame since the high resolution
was really nice.

[donricouga]

You might need to tweak some custom modelines with something like PowerStrip, but it is possible to get a 1:1 mapping with VGA that looks terrific.

What about an HDMI Switch ?
Does the signal or pic quality degrade with something like this ?
Man i wish this set had two digital inputs :(

[Skenzin]

I doubt a hdmi switch would degrade quality since its digital, either the 1's and 0's transmit or not. I was researching DVI switches w/HTPC and they seemed really pricey for me (upwards of $200).

The lack of inputs was really the only thing that concerned me about this set. I think another component would have made me more comfortable. or a dedicated DVI and HDMI.

Oh well. Im sure HDMI switches will drop in price soon.

[Skenzin]

HDMI HDCP switchers.

3 port - http://www.octavainc.com/HDMI%20switch%202port.htm

[donricouga]

I doubt a hdmi switch would degrade quality since its digital, either the 1's and 0's transmit or not. I was researching DVI switches w/HTPC and they seemed really pricey for me (upwards of $200).

The lack of inputs was really the only thing that concerned me about this set. I think another component would have made me more comfortable. or a dedicated DVI and HDMI.

Oh well. Im sure HDMI switches will drop in price soon.

actually, for $136 i could get this one
http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=101&cp_id=10110&cs_id=1011002&p_id=2777&seq=1&format=2

I've bought many stuff from them before and have never been let down.
Its got 5 HDMI inputs and a remote control.
Even though i only have 3 HDMI Sources(Comcast receiver, HTPC, DVD player) it still is an awesome value.

[Caps18]

Some pics of games on the Scepter will be nice :D


My computer can only play HL2 at 1280x720. It looks really good though.

I might have to get this add-on for the game however.
http://halflife2.filefront.com/file/HalfLife_2_FakeFactorys_Hi_Resolution_Pack;49961

And a wireless keyboard and mouse are nice. :)

[techjunkie2005]

I use mine only for htpc in DVI mode. My settings after THX optimizer are:

contrast 135
Black level 11
Color Temp User
R, G, B Gain untouched at 128

Lamp setting is zero since I saw somewhere here that it draws more power with higher settings so zero is where I started from.

Another thing I did with my set was I colored in the white letter across the top with a black sharpie. It does require a steady hand but I think it looks alot better. You can't even see the letters anymore.

Version I have

Debug 0111
06/01/16 14:58
T370hw01

[Koui]

The black crush is due to poor grayscale tracking. I've measured
it through the spyder colorimeter. There's too much blue bias and
the color temp is ~12000K. You can fix it on some of the inputs, but I
had to return it because of this. Shame since the high resolution
was really nice.Which version of the Sceptre did you test and which inputs measured ~12000K? I'm not seeing that much blue bias or black crush on any of the inputs or internal tuners on my V3. Maybe I just got lucky with this particular set but AVIA, DVE, and Nokia monitor test all show correct black, white, color decoder, and gamma (from this site (http://www.photoscientia.co.uk/Gamma.htm)) values after tweaking the Sceptre's menus. I ran the tests with a HTPC and DVD player through Svideo, Component, and DVI. I'll borrow a Spyder this weekend and post the results.

[Pecs]

The black crush is due to poor grayscale tracking. I've measured
it through the spyder colorimeter. There's too much blue bias and
the color temp is ~12000K. You can fix it on some of the inputs, but I
had to return it because of this. Shame since the high resolution
was really nice.

That would explain why I was never able to satisfactorily calibrate DTV with the built-in tuner. What inputs were you unable to fix it on? Just eyeballing it, I'd say things are reasonably accurate when coming out of my PC via DVI.

[jvargasg]

After a week using the Sceptre this is what I have to say about this TV.

Version: Not sure, I have a power switch on the back and the software date on the debug screen is 06/1/16 13:58, no QAM (or at least haven't find it yet)

I have treid several connections but I haven't tried DVI/HDMI/HDCP yet, that seems to be the way all of you guys use it and test it.
This are the different connections I have tried and the results, to my eyes and ears at least.

VIDEO
- SD Directv thru Composite = ugly picture, lots of ghosting, pixelation and jittering.
- SD Directv thru S-Video = a little better, only a little bit
- PS2 Thru Component = 480I games really bad, 480P games a little better
- DTV OTA antenna, Terk HDTVa = here I guess it depends on the signal being broadcasted by the stations, because I've seen really good ones and some others that you can't tell the difference between SD Directv and DTV. keeping in mind that almost every show is listed as 720P or 1080I, I have seen some jittering and ghosting too. not too much pixelation. Please note I am sitting 6 to 10 feet away from TV.
- DVDs on my laptop thru VGA using powerstrip and PowerDVD6 = this is way better, the picture is really good but I can still see some pixelation and a little bit of ghosting, haven't seen any jittering yet. watched shrek2 widescreen, and it looked great. but I have to change the aspect ratio on the TV since the Auto option did not pickup the 16:9

AUDIO
well, what can I say. I was expecting this anyway, but at first it did not sound that bad, I was actually impressed that it was a good sound, even loud, but then I don't know if it's because the tweaking but it's just awful, the bass is anoying, even if I turn the bass down to "0" it still sounds like if the speaker cone was broken, now this is using user mode off course. but if I use the audio presets that come with the TV it does not sound so bad, but still it is real bad.
Now I tried hooking up my pc speakers, Boston Acoustic BA3500, really good speakers, 5.1 capable. first there is no digital outrput on this TV, so got to use either the headphone output or the analog RCA output, so there is no way to get the surround sound DD that comes on the OTA shows out of the TV. so using it on the 2.1 option on my speakers when the signal comes from the headphones I can still control the volume from the TV remote control, but there is a noisy boom on the subwoofer everytime I flip the channels or change the source. Using the Analog audio out, no volume control from the TV, but no noisy boom on the sub either when flipping channels or changing source. but the fact of not being able to get the digital audio out of the TV (without voiding the warranty by opening the case to get the hidden digital output) it just sucks.

Now summarizing this, I don't really know if this TV is good or not, I think its got the potential since is a thru HD (1080 resolution) but for the price being so cheap I think the engineering on it, is cheap too, I am not sure if I am going to keep it since for that kind of money I know is the only set I can afford. maybe this TV was ment to be use with an HTPC like almost all of you are using it, so I may start looking into that too instead of returning it to the store.

If you are buying this set, make sure you get professional help for setting it up or maybe on of those DVDs like AVIA or DVE. And don't forget to save some money for an audio system since the built in speakers are just useless.

I would like your input on this review, since I am not an expert , I don't know if my problems are normal problems for this TV and maybe is just a matter of tweaking the settings or if I just got a bad set.

Thanks in advance

[donsev]

Version: Not sure, I have a power switch on the back and the software date on the debug screen is 06/1/16 13:58, no QAM (or at least haven't find it yet)



That description would be consistent with a V1+ (a version 1 set with the firmware upgrade). You will not be able to access digital cable channels (QAM) but you will be able to access the "hidden" SPDIF (by voiding the warranty as you point out).


I have treid several connections but I haven't tried DVI/HDMI/HDCP yet


Obviously that/those connections will allow you to most fully appreciate what the display is capable of. You have already gotten a taste of what it could be like through your PowerDVD testing using your laptop and the VGA port.


VIDEO
- SD Directv thru Composite = ugly picture, lots of ghosting, pixelation and jittering.
- SD Directv thru S-Video = a little better, only a little bit
- PS2 Thru Component = 480I games really bad, 480P games a little better


Composite will not be great but it should still be watchable. On the other connections you will have to be more specific on your complaints in order for us to determine whether your experience is "normal" or not. (e.g. Is the issue macro-blocking - does the perceived PQ improve if you stand further back from the monitor?).



- DTV OTA antenna, Terk HDTVa = here I guess it depends on the signal being broadcasted by the stations, because I've seen really good ones and some others that you can't tell the difference between SD Directv and DTV.


Sounds about right. If, when you are watching a signal that you know is broadcast in HD (Lost, 24, House, etc.) and you go "wow, so this is what HD is all about", then you've reached the stage where you hope the rest of the TV world catches up to you and produces/broadcasts more stuff in HD.


AUDIO
well, what can I say. I was expecting this anyway, but at first it did not sound that bad, I was actually impressed that it was a good sound, even loud, but then I don't know if it's because the tweaking but it's just awful, the bass is anoying, even if I turn the bass down to "0" it still sounds like if the speaker cone was broken, now this is using user mode off course. but if I use the audio presets that come with the TV it does not sound so bad, but still it is real bad.
Now I tried hooking up my pc speakers, Boston Acoustic BA3500, really good speakers, 5.1 capable. first there is no digital outrput on this TV, so got to use either the headphone output or the analog RCA output, so there is no way to get the surround sound DD that comes on the OTA shows out of the TV. so using it on the 2.1 option on my speakers when the signal comes from the headphones I can still control the volume from the TV remote control, but there is a noisy boom on the subwoofer everytime I flip the channels or change the source. Using the Analog audio out, no volume control from the TV, but no noisy boom on the sub either when flipping channels or changing source. but the fact of not being able to get the digital audio out of the TV (without voiding the warranty by opening the case to get the hidden digital output) it just sucks.


Again, sounds about right based on feedback from this thread.


If you are buying this set, make sure you get professional help for setting it up or maybe on of those DVDs like AVIA or DVE.


Did *you* calibrate your inputs using AVIA or DVE or GetGrey? If not, then you likely aren't getting that max PQ out the the display yet.

[virus2003]

re: jvargasg's review.

I agree with everything you say. Thankfully for me, it's perfect. I don't watch tv all that often, and when I do, I'm used to it looking like crap. Consoles, well, they've always been hideous to me, and I'm more of a PC guy anyway. DVDs, look really meh to me. 480P is just not that cool anymore. A nice display like this only allows you to see all the compression. I never realized how ugly DVDs are!
The sound, oh the sound. I have an older Sony DHC MD-555 sound system hooked up through the analog line out. It's one more remote to have to worry about, but it sounds so much better. This is the first I've heard of a hidden SPDIF? Scandalous.
All of the above would be worth a return, most definitely, if it weren't for the DVI to HDMI. WOW. It's just gorgeous. I play PC games quite a bit, and quite frankly, I thought this display would not function very well as a monitor. I stand so corrected it's not even funny. My 21" Dell monitor upstairs is going to be sold as soon as I can tear my face away from this 37" 1:1 pixel perfect beast! If you have a machine that can play games at 1920x1080, you'll be in heaven. Even at non widescreen res, it's huge! I sit about 4' away from the screen btw.
In conclusion: This display is cheaply made as far as features, firmware, menu systems, and sound. There is no reason why I need to press the button four times to watch a DVD, or four times to switch back to DVI. But, the pretty pretty pretty face on this ugly body keeps me coming back.



PS: Also, as far as I know, I have no QAM. Where would I find it? No mention in the manual. (of course, horrible manual) hehehe. . .

[jvargasg]

Composite will not be great but it should still be watchable. On the other connections you will have to be more specific on your complaints in order for us to determine whether your experience is "normal" or not. (e.g. Is the issue macro-blocking - does the perceived PQ improve if you stand further back from the monitor?).

Well I am not sure if macroblocking is the only problem, but you are right, if I step away of the TV it looks better. But what is annoying is that sometimes the image looks like is moving or jumping like shivering, specially when you look at station logos and stuff like that. Sometimes I see some ghosting too, like if you are watching somebody on the screen and they move from their position then you see the track on the screen really really quick.(I am just to picky and can see it, my wife can't)


Did *you* calibrate your inputs using AVIA or DVE or GetGrey? If not, then you likely aren't getting that max PQ out the the display yet.

Not yet, I am looking to get the disc this weekend and see if that would help the PQ a little.
Do you have any recomendations for settings just so I can try them out and see if that would imrpove the PQ?
video menu, advanced menu, and service menu (like memory delay and all that stuff, and how to get there, you know vol+ Vol- and 3 for example)

Thanks very much

[Nimo]

So I was thinking about getting the fw flashed from Sceptre I live about 20 min away, but I want to know what changes were made. Can anybody see any difference from 06/01/16 to 06\03/03 performance wise, channel surfing, epg etc... I'm just wondering if it's worth the trip would you do it?

[m1ck3ym0us3]

it looks like a 37" viewsonic LCD has replaced the sceptre on the costco site

[el_triad]

Does anyone know if the current versions (whenever they become available again) at Costco are the Version 1 or the Version 2 of the set? This set seems to appear and disappear from the costco website frequently.

If not is there a specific question I might be able to ask the Costo online rep that would tell me which version of set I would be getting?

Thanks

[Dave Kristol]

Does anyone know if the current versions (whenever they become available again) at Costco are the Version 1 or the Version 2 of the set? This set seems to appear and disappear from the costco website frequently.

If not is there a specific question I might be able to ask the Costo online rep that would tell me which version of set I would be getting?

Thanks

The sets people have been receiving recently seem to be primarily Version 2, with a mix of 06/01/16 and 06/03/03 firmwares. I'd be surprised, though, if there's any contact between Costco and the shipping site to determine versions, and I'm sure the Costco rep. would be unable to say. You can't tell by looking at the box, only by taking the set out of the box and examining it. Heck, I doubt the Costco reps even know there are two hardware versions or three versions of firmware.

Dave Kristol

[Dave Kristol]

it looks like a 37" viewsonic LCD has replaced the sceptre on the costco site

It's less expensive, but its specifications are inferior, too: less resolution, not as bright. No QAM tuner advertised. (Of course there's none advertised for the Sceptre, either, but we know it's there on V2 sets.)

Dave Kristol

[ericjut]

Just wanted to give an update to you guys regarding the auto-contrast "feature" that I wasn't able to see (20 pages or so ago).

I said that I wasn't able to see the problem on the component input, but now I can confirm it and it looks pretty bad. I've been playing Oblivion on my 360 and just going around the inventory pages changes the background intensity.

So, after playing with this problem for hours, I tried connecting using the VGA input instead and not only the problem dissapeared, but the shadow detail was greatly improved too.

I guess I kept playing games that were very bright and didn't hit this problem until I played Oblivion.

So, after some testing, it looks like the auto-contrast problem is plaguing only the "Source AV" sources (composite, svideo, component 1, NTSC tuner), while the "Source PC" sources (HDMI, VGA, ATSC/QAM tuner) seem to be ok. Can anybody else confirm this?

Also, is using a Component to VGA adapter on that VGA input fixing the auto-contrast issue too?

Sorry if it's common knowledge on this thread, I tried my best to find the information and couldn't find a clear answer.

Finally, am I the only one that's annoyed by the fact that the VGA and HDMI video inputs share the same audio input on the TV? I don't understand how they can advertise the VGA input as a potential second component without its own dedicated audio input.

-eric

[gadi]

Hi, I am new at this. I just got my 37". When I hooked it up to my PC, the resolution was set 1600x1200 instead of 1920x1080. Does anybody know why that is? I have a Pentium Dual Core 3GHz, 2GB of RAM with nVidia GeForce 6800 card.

gadi

[semuther]

Hi, I am new at this. I just got my 37". When I hooked it up to my PC, the resolution was set 1600x1200 instead of 1920x1080. Does anybody know why that is? I have a Pentium Dual Core 3GHz, 2GB of RAM with nVidia GeForce 6800 card.

gadi

Just change your card's display settings to 1920x1080. Why it came up in some other default resolution is really not all that important.

Steve

[gadi]

Thanks for the reply.

I went to window's control panel and tried to change the display setting to 1920x1080 but there is no such option. Is there a different way of doing this? By the way, I am using DVI output from the PC.

gadi

[semuther]

Thanks for the reply.

I went to window's control panel and tried to change the display setting to 1920x1080 but there is no such option. Is there a different way of doing this? By the way, I am using DVI output from the PC.

gadi

Move your mouse to an unused area of your screen, right click and select "Properties" then select "Settings" followed by "Advanced". You should come up with the Nvidia config menu where you can play with all the resolutions. I'd read the destruction manual for your card and it's driver settings before I messed with this however. If you didn't know all this from the start, you do have some learning to do and probably some mistakes to make.

Good Luck

Steve

[wktaylor]

go to nvidia's website and get the latest drivers for your card. That will probably help.

[ricphu]

I'm trying to tune to specific HD channel but could enter the "-". Anyone know how to do this?

[hakujin]

Also, is using a Component to VGA adapter on that VGA input fixing the auto-contrast issue too?

-eric


NO the problem exists as that is my connection of choice. Thanks for the info on the AV vs. PC inputs. For me, I dislike the auto contrast but it doesn't drive me bonkers. I tried the $40! vga cord for the 360 and I was really annoyed by how washed out games (CoD in particular) look.


I feel you on the audio portion. Not a bad TV at all.... very good bang for buck, but not sure If I'll end up keeping it 6 mo. from now.

Here's my sceptre wishlist
In order of precedence:
-no black crush (or better greys)
-no dynamic contrast
-2 HDMI
-TOSLink

TO GOOD TO BE TRUE

[Dave Kristol]

I'm trying to tune to specific HD channel but could enter the "-". Anyone know how to do this?

You can't, at least not directly.

Here's what you've got to do to get to anything besides X-1. (If you tune to X, you get X-1.) I'll assume you've done a channel scan and have, let's say, X-1, X-2, and X-3. Enter X on the remote (to get to X-1). Hit Channel-up to get to X-2. Same for X-3. (A pain, isn't it!?)

If you have the 06/03/03 firmware, the TV will remember favorites. You can enter the '-' channels as favorites (and leave out ones that aren't favorite), and use the favorites menu to select. But that also requires using Channel-up or -down.

Dave Kristol

[Pecs]

Just wanted to give an update to you guys regarding the auto-contrast "feature" that I wasn't able to see (20 pages or so ago).

I said that I wasn't able to see the problem on the component input, but now I can confirm it and it looks pretty bad. I've been playing Oblivion on my 360 and just going around the inventory pages changes the background intensity.

So, after playing with this problem for hours, I tried connecting using the VGA input instead and not only the problem dissapeared, but the shadow detail was greatly improved too.

I guess I kept playing games that were very bright and didn't hit this problem until I played Oblivion.

So, after some testing, it looks like the auto-contrast problem is plaguing only the "Source AV" sources (composite, svideo, component 1, NTSC tuner), while the "Source PC" sources (HDMI, VGA, ATSC/QAM tuner) seem to be ok. Can anybody else confirm this?

Also, is using a Component to VGA adapter on that VGA input fixing the auto-contrast issue too?

Sorry if it's common knowledge on this thread, I tried my best to find the information and couldn't find a clear answer.

Finally, am I the only one that's annoyed by the fact that the VGA and HDMI video inputs share the same audio input on the TV? I don't understand how they can advertise the VGA input as a potential second component without its own dedicated audio input.

-eric

I can confirm all of that, except on the 3 sets I've had up, the auto-contrast is also present on ATSC broadcasts with the built-in tuner. Solved that problem by adding a tuner to the PC.

[gadi]

Move your mouse to an unused area of your screen, right click and select "Properties" then select "Settings" followed by "Advanced". You should come up with the Nvidia config menu where you can play with all the resolutions. I'd read the destruction manual for your card and it's driver settings before I messed with this however. If you didn't know all this from the start, you do have some learning to do and probably some mistakes to make.

Good Luck

Steve

I downloaded the new driver from nvidia and it works. I have the option now to set to correct resolution.

thanks guys,
gadi

[tlnmp]

Koui,

I calibrated with Avia chapter 7 greyscale ramps and spyder using the spreadsheet
you can find here; on the HDMI input. RGB/DVI should be fine since you have RGB
controls, and so I would recommend this panel if your using HT/PC. I'm pretty sure
I did it correctly since I have two panny plasma who's greyscale in spot on.

P.S. I have V1 even though I ordered in March 06.

[jpconard]

Received my third set today. Set up on HDMI just fine (like the V1 set). Would have kept the first set except for dark irregular horizontal lines in upper right corner.

Would have kept 2nd set if HDMI port worked.

Looks like I will be keeping 3rd set, but haven't tested the VGA port yet, just HDMI. Have both connected in clone mode (2nd one VGA and new one HDMI), both look great.

Some tweaking required, but you can get blacks, contrast, and colors looking pretty good on these sets, especially with the PC (on both VGA and HDMI).

Didn't get latest firmware, but did get 06/01/16 14:58.

One bad pixel found so far, stuck blue, where 2nd set had one stuck red. No big deal.

[Skenzin]

My set arrives tommorow (according to ups). Unfortunately the 2.1 speakers I ordered are delayed. I just hope all the inputs work and any dead pixels aren't overly visible. Thats one of the main reason I went with a 1080p set. Smaller pixels in case of a dead one. I'll post some pics of my setup running xbox360/htpc once its in.

[jvargasg]

You can't, at least not directly.

Here's what you've got to do to get to anything besides X-1. (If you tune to X, you get X-1.) I'll assume you've done a channel scan and have, let's say, X-1, X-2, and X-3. Enter X on the remote (to get to X-1). Hit Channel-up to get to X-2. Same for X-3. (A pain, isn't it!?)

If you have the 06/03/03 firmware, the TV will remember favorites. You can enter the '-' channels as favorites (and leave out ones that aren't favorite), and use the favorites menu to select. But that also requires using Channel-up or -down.

Dave Kristol


Well if you know the "real" channel number, I mean the frequency number, you can do it entering the number in, I just did it on my V1+ set.

[Dave Kristol]

Well if you know the "real" channel number, I mean the frequency number, you can do it entering the number in, I just did it on my V1+ set.

True, but slightly misleading. Around here (NYC area), frequency number 28 carries channels 4-1, 4-2, 4-3. If you enter 28, you probably see 28-1 and get 4-1. (I can't check this right now.) If you manually scan 28, you get all of them set up. If you then want to view 4-3, you have to enter 4 for DTV, which gets you 4-1, then press channel-up to get to 4-2, etc. You can't get to 4-2 or 4-3 directly, which is what the original question was.

Dave Kristol

[ricphu]

True, but slightly misleading. Around here (NYC area), frequency number 28 carries channels 4-1, 4-2, 4-3. If you enter 28, you probably see 28-1 and get 4-1. (I can't check this right now.) If you manually scan 28, you get all of them set up. If you then want to view 4-3, you have to enter 4 for DTV, which gets you 4-1, then press channel-up to get to 4-2, etc. You can't get to 4-2 or 4-3 directly, which is what the original question was.

Dave Kristol

Agreed....this is the problem that I have and channel +/- isn't exactly snappy with the sceptre.

[Skenzin]

Just got my x37 and hooked it up.

Debug 0111
06/01/16 14:58
T370HW01

Initial Impressions: Out of box settings.

No dead pixels I can see. Im not gonna look for any either.

DVD movies on 480p cheapo player look very acceptable. Better then my old syntax. Veiwing angles are very impressive compared to the syntax. Blacks Crush is not nearly as bad either.

tried one xbox360 game for 5 mins with default settings and I wasnt as impressed as the Syntax. Has a more fuzzy quality and darker. Need to tweak a bit on that.

I don't like the OSD, not enough control over PQ. Can't disable noise reduction on component. Syntax had alot better OSD controls and options.

Waiting on my THX speakers to arrive I hooked up the provided ones, OMG I can't believe how bad they are. I haven't heard bass like that since my old 1986 Rx7 with the disentgrated 4" paper cone. Its funny that every bass sounds like my grandfather farted. Even a non-audiophile would laugh at that sound.

I also think my unit was refurb'd/reconditioned. The cable were new and packaged, but I know how a untouched electric device feels and smells when you open it from the factory. Hard to explain but lots of small indicaters like the plastic bag cover on the tv looked used. Like i sad hard to explain things like new platic creaking, etc. Regardless I dont care as long as everything works and so far so good.

So far Im happy so long as I can tweak the PQ up a bit for xbxo360.

[Jason Merrick]

Just wanted to give an update to you guys regarding the auto-contrast "feature" that I wasn't able to see (20 pages or so ago).

I said that I wasn't able to see the problem on the component input, but now I can confirm it and it looks pretty bad. I've been playing Oblivion on my 360 and just going around the inventory pages changes the background intensity.

So, after playing with this problem for hours, I tried connecting using the VGA input instead and not only the problem dissapeared, but the shadow detail was greatly improved too.

I guess I kept playing games that were very bright and didn't hit this problem until I played Oblivion.

So, after some testing, it looks like the auto-contrast problem is plaguing only the "Source AV" sources (composite, svideo, component 1, NTSC tuner), while the "Source PC" sources (HDMI, VGA, ATSC/QAM tuner) seem to be ok. Can anybody else confirm this?

Also, is using a Component to VGA adapter on that VGA input fixing the auto-contrast issue too?

Sorry if it's common knowledge on this thread, I tried my best to find the information and couldn't find a clear answer.

Finally, am I the only one that's annoyed by the fact that the VGA and HDMI video inputs share the same audio input on the TV? I don't understand how they can advertise the VGA input as a potential second component without its own dedicated audio input.

-eric
Hey Eric,

Glad someone else finally agrees with me in this thread that the 360 over VGA looks good. I recently went back and tried the component out on the 360 with a different game (GRAW) and still found it WAY too dark. Granted I could probably adjust this somewhat with the menus, but at least on PGR3 it was not adjustable enough to make the calibration image in PGR3 look right. VGA looks perfect with no adjustment. The other downside to component, is that even if I adjust it to look right, my Sceptre doesn't remember individual settings for each input, so I'd have to adjust for tv and re-adjust for xbox everytime.

As for the auto-contrast feature, I think you may be right about it affecting the Source-AV inputs only. I have occasionally seen a flicker on HDMI with my cable box, but nothing significant enough for me to say it is definitely an auto-contrast problem. It's more than likely just my cable box, or a flaw in the source material.

I agree that they should have included a separate audio input for the VGA, but since the sound is SO terrible over the Sceptre speakers it doesn't really affect me, as I use an external 5.1 receiver for all audio.

[Skenzin]

I havent tested my x37 with my xbox360 vga cable yet. Past experience Ive found the colors too faded for my tatste. I will definitily give it a go though. So far I prefer 720p setting over component to be better than 1080i. I was kinda surprised. On 1080i I noticed some strange texture artifacts in GRAW. They were rare though. Must be the deinterlacing. Does the xbox360 support 1920x1080 over vga?

Also in GRAW you change the brightness. When your in the launch screen just go to "Player Options"

[amert20]

I doubt a hdmi switch would degrade quality since its digital, either the 1's and 0's transmit or not. I was researching DVI switches w/HTPC and they seemed really pricey for me (upwards of $200).

The lack of inputs was really the only thing that concerned me about this set. I think another component would have made me more comfortable. or a dedicated DVI and HDMI.

Oh well. Im sure HDMI switches will drop in price soon.


I am using 5+1 swithc from monoprice without any problem Its cable and switch prices are much cheaper than other locations... http://monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=101&cp_id=10110&cs_id=1011002&p_id=2777&seq=1&format=2

[jvargasg]

Ordered 3/17/2006
Just received my X37SV today, 3/30/2006. How nice of Costco to wait to the 10th business day to deliver it.

DEBUG 0111
06/01/16 13:58
T370HW01
1920 X 1080


Same unit I recieved, Ordered on 3/20/06 and got it on 3/29/06

I also have the internal SPDIF port that bobn4burton confirmed works back in post #336.
I haven't confirmed if my port works yet.

How do you check if you have this and is working without voiding your warranty? where exactly it is located?

I first tested the panel, without any calibration, by playing the 1080p trailer for King Kong.
Today, for the first time, I have seen true high-definition and it was amazing.
The detail shown on Kong gave me chills.
That being said, does anybody really want to see every pore and hair on Jack Black's face?
The WMV-HD version of The Fifth Element was also impressive.

Where do you get this trailers in 1080P? how can I get something like that?
I guess using you are using your HTPC, so if I am using mine but got it hooked up thru VGA (working fine on 1920x1080) can I get the same good PQ as with DVI for 1080P?

Thanks for your time

[Sorax]

Same unit I recieved, Ordered on 3/20/06 and got it on 3/29/06

How do you check if you have this and is working without voiding your warranty? where exactly it is located?

Where do you get this trailers in 1080P? how can I get something like that?
I guess using you are using your HTPC, so if I am using mine but got it hooked up thru VGA (working fine on 1920x1080) can I get the same good PQ as with DVI for 1080P?

Thanks for your time

The optical port is attached to the ATSC tuner. With the screen facing you it is just to the right of center on top inside the TV and visible, particularly in the dark because it glows red, through the vents of the rear casing. I haven't read the Manufacturer's warranty in any detail but I think anything you would do to access the port will technically void it. Of course, if you purchased from Costco there are no worries because of their generous satisfaction guarantee.

I simply placed the TV screen down on a flat surface and removed the screws that hold the back panel in place. I believe there are 4 inset screws along the top and 5 surface screws on either side. I don't remember exactly what was along the bottom. Once I could reach the port I connected an optical cable, widened a vent just enough to pass the cord through and closed the TV back up. Viola, Now connected to a decoder I receive 5.1 OTA right from the tuner.

It is a relatively painless procedure, for yourself and the TV, but I take no responsibility for others trying what worked for me.

I believe you could download the 1080P trailer for King Kong directly from apple but I suggest this website: http://www.davestrailerpage.co.uk . Along with the King Kong trailer it has HD versions of many others. If you have any trouble running the movie reference the thread http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=654826 , it contains several tips on making this movie run well. It takes all my computer has got to run at 1080P but it really makes the X37SV look it's best.

If you have been able to attain 1920 X 1080 over VGA with no problems the trailer should look great. But since the signal is analog there might be some artifacts introduced like color bleeding and lose in clarity. I suspect you would only be able to notice on an identical still-shot side-by-side with a DVI driven TV. Since you probaly won't be doing that just give it a try and enjoy.

[nanjil]

hello:
I missed this tv at costco. costco seems to have given up on this one.
I am considering getting it from on line retailers. I have a coupel of questions

1. does the latest version still has the juddr problem?
2. does it have spdif output or atleast can I get to it by hacking?
3. how many antenna inputs does it have. can I connect a over the air antenna and standard cable at the same time?

thanx

[Skenzin]

heres some pics I promised.

http://dgl.1st.net/x37/x37.htm

For some reason when I run DVI through my nvidia 6600gt the text and image on my desktop has "sparklies". Anyone can point me in the right direction?

[Cloud zer0]

Ok thanks guys for answering my questions back a few pages on the antenna question
(I must get one).

Ok so I am still unsure after reading almost all the pages (took weeks lol)
About the Upconversions in Resolutions.

Will this TV Deinterlace content or convert 1080i to 1080p? i was reading that people are watching various sources, so please tell me exactly how it works. It was not confirmed as well if the signal gets downverted to 720 then up to 1080p.

Its a big risk for me to buy something that has a one year warranty plan, but then i read about how purchasing extended warranties give you the "stick" and send you to really terrible bottom of the barrel service centers, and that once they fix something on your LCD, your warranty is not appended useless.
There is also no stock at costco and also no telling what Firmware I will be receiving as well.

How good is Sceptres reputation? I have and my family had nothing but Mitsubishi, NEC, Sony and Viewsonic. Yes all all Expensive models this will be my first non Japanese elite model , but the visual quality seems impressive. The lifespan for all these tvs/monitors have well extended over 5, 15, and the oldest mitsubishi is 25 years old.
I wonder why they are only confident to apply the lowest warranty.

[Caps18]

heres some pics I promised.

http://dgl.1st.net/x37/x37.htm

For some reason when I run DVI through my nvidia 6600gt the text and image on my desktop has "sparklies". Anyone can point me in the right direction?

Are they like green and pink dots? You can try changing the memory delay. Press both volume bottons on the TV at the same time, then press 3 on the remote (if I remember correctly). Adjust to 3 or 4.

You have quite a few DVDs.

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

The xbox 360 isn't 1080p, and one of the Microsoft guys actually said it wasn't possible. :rolleyes: The PS3 might have 1080p games a while after the initial launch.

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

There is a difference between VGA and DVI at 1080p. But, it is very small, and you have to be 2 feet away to see it. It's probably the same type of difference between vaccuum tubes and ICs.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. how many antenna inputs does it have. can I connect a over the air antenna and standard cable at the same time?

It has one ATSC for over the air digital. It also has one NTSC for cable or an analog antenna. Yes, both ATSC and NTSC can be connected at the same time, just use the remote to switch between the sources.

[donsev]

I said that I wasn't able to see the problem on the component input, but now I can confirm it and it looks pretty bad. I've been playing Oblivion on my 360 and just going around the inventory pages changes the background intensity.

...So, after some testing, it looks like the auto-contrast problem is plaguing only the "Source AV" sources (composite, svideo, component 1, NTSC tuner), while the "Source PC" sources (HDMI, VGA, ATSC/QAM tuner) seem to be ok. Can anybody else confirm this?

Also, is using a Component to VGA adapter on that VGA input fixing the auto-contrast issue too?



Eric, I tried to summarize what I gleaned from this thread a while back and this is what I came up with;


bennynihon, k2_1971, Jason Merrick, ericjut, bluemax50, and anyone else who has offered feedback on the auto-contrast "feature", I want to make sure that I am correctly summarizing that this "feature" ONLY exists on specific ports, namely the Component ports. As I understand, this "feature" does NOT exist on the S-Video, VGA (as PC-VGA), or HDMI (as DVI, HDMI or HDCP).




Input Port Auto-Contrast "feature"
Composite ?
S-Video No
Component Yes
VGA (as YPbPr) Yes
VGA (as PC-VGA) No
HDMI (as DVI) No
HDMI (as HDMI) No
HDMI (as HDCP) No


As you can see, others have reported that using the VGA as VGA-YPbPr does NOT bypass the Auto-Contrast "feature". Do you see the "feature" using composite, S-video and NTSC?

[Neomoon]

Just wanted to drop by an mention that my V3 set has started acting up with my HDMI-DVI connection.

Before I was able to switch inputs and once I would go back to the DVI input my desktop would reapper, however over the weekend it just stopped working. Now once I switch from DVI to any other input then try to come back to the DVI input it simply just sits there saying "No Signal" I'm down to having to use the little program written by someone on here that will get the screen to come back. BUT THIS IS REALLY ANNOYING, I liked the way it was working before now just switching inputs loses the PC input signal. Please help.

[jaxzin]

...I missed this tv at costco. costco seems to have given up on this one...
What gives you this impression? I ask because I'm ready to pull the trigger when it reappears and I'm wondering if you know something I don't. What are other people's opinion? Do we think Costco will get more in stock, or are they done selling them?

[Dave Kristol]

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. how many antenna inputs does it have. can I connect a over the air antenna and standard cable at the same time?

It has one ATSC for over the air digital. It also has one NTSC for cable or an analog antenna. Yes, both ATSC and NTSC can be connected at the same time, just use the remote to switch between the sources.

To clarify, there are separate inputs for ATSC and NTSC. The set does not provide a way to connect both OTA ATSC and cable ATSC and choose between them (assuming the set has QAM support), or to connect both OTA NTSC and cable NTSC and choose between them.

Dave Kristol

[Koui]

So, after some testing, it looks like the auto-contrast problem is plaguing only the "Source AV" sources (composite, svideo, component 1, NTSC tuner), while the "Source PC" sources (HDMI, VGA, ATSC/QAM tuner) seem to be ok. Can anybody else confirm this?On my set I've seen auto-contrast kick-in on component, svideo, composite, and both internal tuners only if I increase the Sceptre's default values of brightness and contrast. I leave the backlight (lamp) set at 0 and make adjustments for black and white levels using the DVD player or cable/satellite box video menus.

[Skenzin]

Having some issues that I cant find the answer for in this gigantic thread.

1. i fixed some strange blue-greenish lines by change the timing setting to 3 when I was playing 1080p stuff over VGA. But DVI over a nvidia 6600gt has a weird flicker. The desktop is solid. But my icons and any windows I bring up will flicker or have flicker lines. They almost look like there moving slightly and really quickly. Timing settings dont fix this.

Looking at it again the whole screen is actually flickering. But it only does it at 1920x1080. All other resolutions are solid.

[Sorax]

Looking at it again the whole screen is actually flickering. But it only does it at 1920x1080. All other resolutions are solid.

I believe someone had a similar experience some pages back. The problem was solved by changing the cable.
The analog computer input is susceptible to small degradations in the signal that could impart some strange artifacts when the TV converts the signal for it's use.
Anyways, a new cable might do the trick.

[jvargasg]

The optical port is attached to the ATSC tuner. With the screen facing you it is just to the right of center on top inside the TV and visible, particularly in the dark because it glows red, through the vents of the rear casing. I haven't read the Manufacturer's warranty in any detail but I think anything you would do to access the port will technically void it. Of course, if you purchased from Costco there are no worries because of their generous satisfaction guarantee.

I decided to go ahead and try it, opened up, took of every screw just to not risk any damage trying to take the back cover off, found the optical port, ran a cable from there to the bottom part of the tv just right next to the connections and ran it out thru the corner with no risk of damaging TV cover and/or cable. Now I can state that I have HDTV with digital 5.1 audio, I am looking forward for this monday's 24!!!

I believe you could download the 1080P trailer for King Kong directly from apple but I suggest this website: http://www.davestrailerpage.co.uk . Along with the King Kong trailer it has HD versions of many others. If you have any trouble running the movie reference the thread http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=654826 , it contains several tips on making this movie run well. It takes all my computer has got to run at 1080P but it really makes the X37SV look it's best.

I went to the link, great BTW, but since my HTPC is still under construction, I don't think I have the minimun specs required to play something in 1080P, so I'll keep researching about this and hopefully in a couple of weeks when I get everything setup on my HTPC I'll give it a try.

Thanks again

[ericjut]

I havent tested my x37 with my xbox360 vga cable yet. Past experience Ive found the colors too faded for my tatste. I will definitily give it a go though. So far I prefer 720p setting over component to be better than 1080i. I was kinda surprised. On 1080i I noticed some strange texture artifacts in GRAW. They were rare though. Must be the deinterlacing. Does the xbox360 support 1920x1080 over vga?

Also in GRAW you change the brightness. When your in the launch screen just go to "Player Options"

You really should give another try calibrating your TV when in VGA mode. In case you didn't know, to be able to control the R, G and B gains, you have to put the Color Temp to "User" mode. Those, in conjunction with the "Contrast" slider, will enable you to calibrate the VGA input pretty well. I'm pretty happy with my VGA source now.

The only problem, just like the other poster pointed out, is that some inputs (like the HDMI input) "share" their settings. In my particular case, since I have a 360 and a HTPC connected to my TV, I decided to calibrate the TV for the 360 and change the video settings on my HTPC at the video card level. That way, I don't have to modify any settings when swapping those 2 sources.

Oh, and as far as the 360 is concerned, 1360X768 is the "highest" resolution possible in VGA. Or in other words, it doesn't support 1920X1080 on the VGA (that would be sweet btw)...

-eric

[hakujin]

You really should give another try calibrating your TV when in VGA mode. In case you didn't know, to be able to control the R, G and B gains, you have to put the Color Temp to "User" mode. Those, in conjunction with the "Contrast" slider, will enable you to calibrate the VGA input pretty well. I'm pretty happy with my VGA source now.

The only problem, just like the other poster pointed out, is that some inputs (like the HDMI input) "share" their settings. In my particular case, since I have a 360 and a HTPC connected to my TV, I decided to calibrate the TV for the 360 and change the video settings on my HTPC at the video card level. That way, I don't have to modify any settings when swapping those 2 sources.

Oh, and as far as the 360 is concerned, 1360X768 is the "highest" resolution possible in VGA. Or in other words, it doesn't support 1920X1080 on the VGA (that would be sweet btw)...

-eric

I didn't calibrate mine either. Perhaps that's why it looks so washed out. You're saying that with a little tweaking, I can get the saturation and shadows out of the vga that is there with the component, replacing compaonent darkness the darkness with clarity?

I might have to give that ago. Though, they seriously need to drop the price on that cord before I entertain actually keeping one. On another note, not that a HD-DVD add-on has been announced, it might be worth holding out to see what's in storet.. HDMI on the 360 AVIP is stated as technically impossible due to the interface being COMPLETELY analog. I find it lame something so new (and powerful) would be intentiionally be limited by analog if only to lower manufacturing costs.

I pulled an old interview with Todd Holmdahl too, which states when the time is right, HDMI will be available. I'm thiking that time will be when PS3 hits (if they hit with Blu-Ray).

It would only seem logical that the game supports the interface too but who knows! But worst case scenario, usb to drive, drive goes directly to tv with hdmi. Boy would that suck. I think I'd pass. But all HDMI to Sceptre would be perfect. Provided it carries 5.1 audio, I could free the 360 from one of my 2 optical ports on my receiver and use the TOSLink on the ATSC tuner thus getting 2 for one 5.1 (OTA and 360)!

[Caps18]

I decided to go ahead and try it, opened up, took of every screw just to not risk any damage trying to take the back cover off, found the optical port, ran a cable from there to the bottom part of the tv just right next to the connections and ran it out thru the corner with no risk of damaging TV cover and/or cable. Now I can state that I have HDTV with digital 5.1 audio, I am looking forward for this monday's 24!!!



Why wouldn't Sceptre put this port on the back of the TV? I'm going to have to open up my TV now to see if it is there. My receiver can't use it, but I'll make sure any one I buy in the future can if this is true.

Is anybody else using this?

[semuther]

Why wouldn't Sceptre put this port on the back of the TV? I'm going to have to open up my TV now to see if it is there. My receiver can't use it, but I'll make sure any one I buy in the future can if this is true.

Is anybody else using this?

Only the early versions of this set have the internal optical port. When they changed to the QAM capable tuner, that port went away.

Steve

[sledge1234]

Only the early versions of this set have the internal optical port. When they changed to the QAM capable tuner, that port went away.

Steve

Ver. 2 has USB port on the ATSC tuner inside. This is not the service port outside, but a true USB port in addition. I am not sure if it is for software upgrades or if it can be used for sound output from the ATSC.

[Edward Sanders]

I posted a couple of messages 10-15 pages back. First, I want to thank people who addressed my vertical lines problems (solved by timing tweaking). I am on my second set (first was really completely and certainly return - refurbished, lacking even some wires and with dead remote). I am still having trouble with my HDMI/DVI post and even with VGA port.

DVI/HDMI: have 3 computers that I checked DVI connection with. 2 Pcs: one with nvidia card and one with Rodeon, and mac mini. DVI connection was dead with all of them, whatever I did with the drivers, etc. Then I got an ATSC tuner with DVI port and a new HDMI/DVI cable, the connection still did not work. Then I checked HDMI connection with an upgrading DVD player with HDMI port, and HDMI to HDMI connection worked! So the port itself is not dead. Could it be that the port is working as HDMI and not working as DVI?

VGA: for the first two days, the set worked with a PC and VGA connection. It was OK, and the screen was filled completely on 1920x1080. After the first week, I connected Sceptre to mac mini through the adapter DVI/VGA. Some strange things started to happen. First 5 days everything was perfect: full screen, 1920x1080. Then one morning display picture shrank and shifted to the right, leaving 3 inch black space on the left and 1 1/2 inch on the right. I could center it by tweaking the Sceptre settings, but it did not fill the full screen. Yet, when I switched to lower resolutions on Mac, the picture on the screen migrated (still did not fill the full screen but, depending of resolution, was be in a different parts of the screen). After 3 weeks of the screen off the center, it switched again and now it is centered almost OK, much less off then it was before, just a bit off to the left. It still does not fill the full screen, leaving around an inch or a bit more on both sides. Again, if I switch to lower resolution, the picture can cover different parts of the screen, so it seems that the computer "knows" that the screen is bigger than what it fills with 1920x1080 . I've tried three different VGA cables, increasingly more expensive. I have not tried Silver Serpent yet, but tried the most expensive VGA cables they had in BestBuy and CompUsa. Nothing changed much, still cannot fill the screen completely.

I have been waiting to see if the DVI problem is resolved and then to try my luck with the third set, only to find out that the set disappeared from C** website. It is not really big problem, as I like the Sceptre overall. If only I could resolve DVI and VGA issues ;-))! Thanks in advance to everyone who might comment on my problems.

[jay_cee]

Couple of comments - Have you tried power cycling your computer while trying DVI? If my TV isn't turned on already when I turn on my PC, the DVI won't come up at all. Its like my video card is checking for a DVI link when it powers up and if it doesn't find one, it disables the port. I'm not sure if its the fault of the TV or my Nvidia 5200. Not a big deal, but its annoying if I happen to forget to turn the TV on first.

The VGA issues you are seeing sound like they could be addressed with custom modeline settings. I'm not sure how that sort of thing is handled in the Mac world, but do some googling for "modeline".


I posted a couple of messages 10-15 pages back. First, I want to thank people who addressed my vertical lines problems (solved by timing tweaking). I am on my second set (first was really completely and certainly return - refurbished, lacking even some wires and with dead remote). I am still having trouble with my HDMI/DVI post and even with VGA port.

DVI/HDMI: have 3 computers that I checked DVI connection with. 2 Pcs: one with nvidia card and one with Rodeon, and mac mini. DVI connection was dead with all of them, whatever I did with the drivers, etc. Then I got an ATSC tuner with DVI port and a new HDMI/DVI cable, the connection still did not work. Then I checked HDMI connection with an upgrading DVD player with HDMI port, and HDMI to HDMI connection worked! So the port itself is not dead. Could it be that the port is working as HDMI and not working as DVI?

VGA: for the first two days, the set worked with a PC and VGA connection. It was OK, and the screen was filled completely on 1920x1080. After the first week, I connected Sceptre to mac mini through the adapter DVI/VGA. Some strange things started to happen. First 5 days everything was perfect: full screen, 1920x1080. Then one morning display picture shrank and shifted to the right, leaving 3 inch black space on the left and 1 1/2 inch on the right. I could center it by tweaking the Sceptre settings, but it did not fill the full screen. Yet, when I switched to lower resolutions on Mac, the picture on the screen migrated (still did not fill the full screen but, depending of resolution, was be in a different parts of the screen). After 3 weeks of the screen off the center, it switched again and now it is centered almost OK, much less off then it was before, just a bit off to the left. It still does not fill the full screen, leaving around an inch or a bit more on both sides. Again, if I switch to lower resolution, the picture can cover different parts of the screen, so it seems that the computer "knows" that the screen is bigger than what it fills with 1920x1080 . I've tried three different VGA cables, increasingly more expensive. I have not tried Silver Serpent yet, but tried the most expensive VGA cables they had in BestBuy and CompUsa. Nothing changed much, still cannot fill the screen completely.

I have been waiting to see if the DVI problem is resolved and then to try my luck with the third set, only to find out that the set disappeared from C** website. It is not really big problem, as I like the Sceptre overall. If only I could resolve DVI and VGA issues ;-))! Thanks in advance to everyone who might comment on my problems.

[Punisher007]

I'm thinking about buying this lcdtv but I'm not aware of any online retailers that sell the v3 with latest firmware. Any advice on where to purchase (other than costco)?

[Skenzin]

I'm thinking about buying this lcdtv but I'm not aware of any online retailers that sell the v3 with latest firmware. Any advice on where to purchase (other than costco)?

Your best bet is probably newegg. I saw a documentary on them and they keep very shallow inventory. However they don't accept returns on large tvs. Once you sign the UPS delivery you have to deal with the manufacturer.

[Pecs]

I posted a couple of messages 10-15 pages back. First, I want to thank people who addressed my vertical lines problems (solved by timing tweaking). I am on my second set (first was really completely and certainly return - refurbished, lacking even some wires and with dead remote). I am still having trouble with my HDMI/DVI post and even with VGA port.

DVI/HDMI: have 3 computers that I checked DVI connection with. 2 Pcs: one with nvidia card and one with Rodeon, and mac mini. DVI connection was dead with all of them, whatever I did with the drivers, etc. Then I got an ATSC tuner with DVI port and a new HDMI/DVI cable, the connection still did not work. Then I checked HDMI connection with an upgrading DVD player with HDMI port, and HDMI to HDMI connection worked! So the port itself is not dead. Could it be that the port is working as HDMI and not working as DVI?

VGA: for the first two days, the set worked with a PC and VGA connection. It was OK, and the screen was filled completely on 1920x1080. After the first week, I connected Sceptre to mac mini through the adapter DVI/VGA. Some strange things started to happen. First 5 days everything was perfect: full screen, 1920x1080. Then one morning display picture shrank and shifted to the right, leaving 3 inch black space on the left and 1 1/2 inch on the right. I could center it by tweaking the Sceptre settings, but it did not fill the full screen. Yet, when I switched to lower resolutions on Mac, the picture on the screen migrated (still did not fill the full screen but, depending of resolution, was be in a different parts of the screen). After 3 weeks of the screen off the center, it switched again and now it is centered almost OK, much less off then it was before, just a bit off to the left. It still does not fill the full screen, leaving around an inch or a bit more on both sides. Again, if I switch to lower resolution, the picture can cover different parts of the screen, so it seems that the computer "knows" that the screen is bigger than what it fills with 1920x1080 . I've tried three different VGA cables, increasingly more expensive. I have not tried Silver Serpent yet, but tried the most expensive VGA cables they had in BestBuy and CompUsa. Nothing changed much, still cannot fill the screen completely.

I have been waiting to see if the DVI problem is resolved and then to try my luck with the third set, only to find out that the set disappeared from C** website. It is not really big problem, as I like the Sceptre overall. If only I could resolve DVI and VGA issues ;-))! Thanks in advance to everyone who might comment on my problems.

I had this exact same problem with my DVI port. Worked with HDMI devices, but not DVI via my PC. Returned it and the next set I got worked fine.

[jpconard]

I received my third and HDMI worked, checked the Costco site on a Monday and it was on for about an hour and got my order in. I haven't seen it on the site since.

Did Costco drop Sceptre all together?

[donsev]

Did Costco drop Sceptre all together?

No, as of today (04/24) they are still carrying the 32".

[Zoglog]

Well I finally found out why the inputs were so weird and didnt work on my harmony remote. Apparently you have to set it to specific inputs rather than cycling inputs and make strwen out commands for each input, which is annoying. And the only way to standardize it was to have it switch to DTV and then back to analog and vice versa. Otherwise there would be no way for the harmony remote to know the # of presses required. It still seems inaccurate though.

However this TV doesnt seem to have any real problems, I was wondering how many V1 users are still out there?

[Nimo]

Well after I didn't get a response from Sceptre I can only come to a conclusion on the latest fw's I think Dave K was asking about the EA in the menu I also have the same listing on my 06/1/16 fw. The EA stands for Emergency Alarm and my set also saves fav's after a power down, as far as I can tell there really is no difference in fw's unless someone can chime in and say different. I decided not to bother with upgrades because my set is working perfect at the moment, and using VLC via firewire to my DCT 6200 to watch TV on my PC looks just fine. A cheap way to watch TV on your PC without having to buy tuner cards. Earlier ver's of VLC were pretty bad but their latest release is quite adequite for the moment even though it has minor sound issues it looks good on the Sceptre :)

[kosstamogen]

Well I finally found out why the inputs were so weird and didnt work on my harmony remote. Apparently you have to set it to specific inputs rather than cycling inputs and make strwen out commands for each input, which is annoying. And the only way to standardize it was to have it switch to DTV and then back to analog and vice versa. Otherwise there would be no way for the harmony remote to know the # of presses required. It still seems inaccurate though.

However this TV doesnt seem to have any real problems, I was wondering how many V1 users are still out there?

I was struggling with the Harmony 880 to get it to switch to the right inputs when you push "Watch TV" yesterday. How did you do it? When I set it to cycling it never lands on the right input. When I did the specific inputs it asks you which command to switch to DVI and I select SetPCDvi, or which input to switch to TVCable and I select SetVideoCable (something along those lines). When I did that I couldn't seem to get it to work. Is that the same thing you did?

What do you mean by have it switch to DTV first then to analog? The thing is when I say "Watch TV" it should go to TVCable, but it dosen't, pushing the help button solves this. But I have to do Help every time which is not right

[Zoglog]

I was struggling to get it to switch to the right inputs yesterday. How did you do it? When I set it to cycling it never lands on the right input. When I did the specific inputs it asks you which command to switch to DVI and I select SetPCDvi, or which input to switch to TVCable and I select SetVideoCable (something along those lines). When I did that I couldn't seem to get it to work. Is that the same thing you did?

What do you mean by have it switch to DTV first then to analog? The thing is when I say "Watch TV" it should go to TVCable, but it dosen't, pushing the help button solves this. But I have to do Help every time which is not right

Yeah those commands don't seem to work, at least I havent gotten them to work.

Basically the only way I can determine the # of presses to goto a specific input is by making it switch to the other of the 2 input switchers. So say I wanted to goto DVI.
I would first have the tv press the analog TV input button, and then press the dtv input button 4 times. A Big pain in the ass. However it has been hitting off by 1 for some strange reason like 80% of the time, I will need to look into it. But it's the only way I can imagine the remote could know. Stupid cheapass sceptre couldnt even put in codes to switch to a direct input... lame =/

[kosstamogen]

Yeah those commands don't seem to work, at least I havent gotten them to work.

Basically the only way I can determine the # of presses to goto a specific input is by making it switch to the other of the 2 input switchers. So say I wanted to goto DVI.
I would first have the tv press the analog TV input button, and then press the dtv input button 4 times. A Big pain in the ass. However it has been hitting off by 1 for some strange reason like 80% of the time, I will need to look into it. But it's the only way I can imagine the remote could know. Stupid cheapass sceptre couldnt even put in codes to switch to a direct input... lame =/

Could it be the delay? I tried to change it but it just behaves kind of funky. I was hoping to have an Activity like "Use Computer" to have it switch to DVI but dosen't look like that is going to happen.

What I don't understand is when I do the help it takes me to the right input.

[Cloud zer0]

I just got off of Online tech support and I addressed a few concerns:
I hope these help
as it pertains to

Upconverting all TV to 1080i, Recording .TS streams, Cost of box.
( I am Danny, the rep is Jesus)


Danny: HD: Do you have a box that will upconvert all Tv signals to 1080i/p/ ?

You are now speaking with Jesus Solorio of Online Customer Care.
Jesus Solorio: Hello, Danny.
Jesus Solorio: Yes, all of our HD boxes do that
Danny: thats good because i will be getting a sceptre lCd and must run at Native res for best results
Danny: i have another question can i ask?
Jesus Solorio: okay
Danny: ok right now i have basic cable (just the 10.00 package) do i need to pay the 45.00 to be able to have the box? How much is the box
Jesus Solorio: The cable box is $5 per month.
Danny: because i thoguht i saw you need a better package to pay a monthly fee
Jesus Solorio: You can get basic cable and an HD box. but you can only get the basic HD channels.
Jesus Solorio: If you want anything else, you will need to get a Digital Cable package.
Danny: ok that make senses, I dont have to get digital cable to use your hd box
Danny: Is your HD box purchasable, or is it only a monthly fee for a "rental"?
Jesus Solorio: No but you will only get 4 channels more
Jesus Solorio: NO, its a monthly rental
Danny: Does it also record or is that a separate feature to purchase?
Jesus Solorio: Separate feature
Jesus Solorio: That will be $10 more per month
Jesus Solorio: A total of $15 per month
Danny: ok and if its recorded digitally, is it possible to transfer this stream to a media file over the computer as mpeg .ts
Jesus Solorio: no
Danny: ok, i am curious how people are recording hdtv streams
Jesus Solorio: It stays in the cable box
Danny: i suppose i need to buy a DVICO fusion tv
Danny: and the RF cable can be connected to the QAM and can be recorded ? or does it lose its its encryption and become scrambled?
Danny: because i could buy a pc hdtv video in -box
Jesus Solorio: You cannot access the HD feed without the receiver
Jesus Solorio: The picture is scrambled
Jesus Solorio: The only thing that is not scrambled is the basic channels (non HD).
Danny: I see. I suppose it its necessary then for TW CABLE to find a way to encrypt the signal further as I notice people are recording HD HBO onto their computers as .ts streams
Jesus Solorio: right
Jesus Solorio: Is there anything else we can do for you today?
Danny: ok one last question. The tV i am interested in has no function for remembering if a signal is 16:9 or 4:3 and will either stretch all signals to wide or leave everything 4:3 does the box have a memory to these settings PER channel?
Jesus Solorio: yes
Danny: thats good news. Thanks a lot for your time and Help, you answered all my questions efficiently
Danny: have a great day :)
Jesus Solorio: you will not be able to stretch it
Jesus Solorio: If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Jesus Solorio: Thank you, Danny, for using Time Warner Cable's Online Chat System.

Yeah I did pinch him on the issue of encryption, but its not like he can do anything to prevent it anways :P, theres always a way.

[Cloud zer0]

SORRY I divided my posts, as it was too long and wouldn't fit.

See above post for other details that are important.

SOLUTIONS

A lot of you have issues that otherwise preventing your from buying or keeping an otherwise fantastic display.
I don't own the TV, but I have found some variable solutions which I think should work, some are directly from this thread, or a combination of ideas, some are theories and the rest is covered by talking to a TIME WARNER representative. Because this display is noted as so pretty, and it has a few bugs, lets see if we can minimize all of them to rival the $3,500 dollar displays its up against.

I will be buying this display in 5 weeks time :D
Remember, this is not a perfect solution, and I leave it open to discussion as this is what i understand and hav concluded. Some are solutions, some are guesses.
Please chip in if you think I am wrong, and put to why. Lets try to work all these problems out :)

Issue 1. "SD TV looks like crap and other signals as well" OR
TV doesn't have an elaborate up converter like the 37" Mitsubishi 1080p LT-3780.
Issue 2. "The sound sucks on these speakers"
Issue 3. " How can i get to up convert my signals and look fantastic?
Issue 4. " Black borders on 1920x1080 on PC
Issue 5. "The TV does not remember the 16:9 or 4:3 stretch settings on a per station basis.
Issue 6. "Interlacing"(1080i)
Issue 7. " Not enough HDMI ports"
Issue 8" Down converting 1080i to 720p back to 1080p"
Issue 9 “ Color is too blue or too bright”
Issue 10 “ Cannot go up to 1920x1080.

Issue 1: Solution: HD receiver box: For 5.00 a month, The Time warner cable box upconverts all TV signals to 1080i ! Did you remember to get a good antenna? Did you also try your cable signal as well?
Issue 2: Are you kidding me? For this price? If there was no speakers at all, few would complain. Just think of it as a free gift, although I rather not listen to it. At worst case scenario , and not using my 700 watt boston cr67, klipsch sub home theatre system, I could use 2 of my small satellites and connect them to the back. Speakers like this sound good and cost 50.00 for a pair. By removing the speakers one has more room and can actually fit his TV in his smaller room. One Is asking a bit too much at this price.
Issue 3:FFDSHOW from HTPC upscales all DVDS/Files/ and de interlaces. Lancoz looks the best. Games coming from here are of coursed scaled.
Issue 4: Solution: Video card:The Ati control panel has a zoom function in software to size the whole screen up or down to lessen under or overscan. This can be adjusted on a per monitor basis. Should be available in Nvidia drivers as well.
Solution PC: Hothardware noted that 1280x720 resolution in fact still looks terrific coming from games, if one has not a high end pc.

Issue 5: TW CABLE: Once again solved. The boxes they have, Jesus concluded that they will “Remember” the Tv stations and won't stretch the 4:3 images!
Issue 6:Only a theory, but what happens when you put the monitor at 30hz?
Thats close to the interlacing scan of 29.97. Can one try this?
VLC media player does the best job at deinterlacing, especially 1080i doubling frame rate and 3:2 pulldown conversion (LINEAR). Unfortunately FFDSHOW does not have anywhere near (IMHO) a quality deinterlacer as good as VLCs linear: A. Looks fantastic, reduces artifacts and jaggies B. Improves motion to a very fluid progressive 60p state C. Low CPU overhead
Issue 7: For a TV this quality and at this price, we already have a lot, such as a perfect handshake with your PC and a beautiful picture. Down the line cable companies will make their receivers with additional HDMI ports, or one could plop down 125USD for an additional hdmi box (which I can't find that also contains the necessary Component, s video and so forth.
Issue 8: How do we know this for sure? Does the picture in fact look good on a true 1080i image, compared to a 720p image? I will see to contacting Sceptre for this answer.
Issue 9: Go to USER color and turn the blue down to as low as possible, because the TV is defaulted at 11,000 K and is much higher than very high 9300K Monitor Crt. The NTSC standards are 6500K. Get it as close as possible.
PC solution: One can adjust colors COLOR in Avivo for Ati. Reduce the blue in there to compensate if one can't fix the colors in the display itself.
Issue 10: Cables. This was discussed before that VGA cables can “barely” if at all reach the required resolution interfacing with an LCD monitor. A higher quality gauge shielded cable is recommended and was a solution to a few peoples problems. It is already like the only? Monitor that will do this in the first place. For myself, I will be using DVI to HDMI to the Sceptre, and if thats not quality try the VGA cable. The one provided by Mitsubishi is really good, but is only 6 foot.

After writing all of this, I realized hey Sceptre is a bargain and much awaited to have.

[hakujin]

my lord...

chat logs that are both unhelpful and unecessary and a Q&A that involves various conjecture and metaphors about hookers?!
Did you share all that for your own amusement or was it supposed to be helpful to someone?

[Cloud zer0]

Edit: Dammit my cousin is going to get my IP banned..

[donsev]

It's Baaaack!

(at our favorite online warehouse).

[DouglasteR]

It's Baaaack!

(at our favorite online warehouse).


:D GREAAT ! For anyone that bought this monitor, how much is the shipping and handling ( From C****) to Miami ?! Thanks for the help !

[Dave Kristol]

:D GREAAT ! For anyone that bought this monitor, how much is the shipping and handling ( From C****) to Miami ?! Thanks for the help !

S+H to the NY area (from California) was about $80.

Dave Kristol

[jvargasg]

I've been using this TV for a couple of weeks now, and I am not so satisfied.
The PQ in terms of colors is not so bright, the colors are not vivid at all, and YES believe me I’ve been tweaking it a lot and I got it set to the best picture possible, at least for my eyes.
Besides the color, my main concern is the artifacts and jittering, I cannot get closer than 4 feet because it looks really bad. And yes I set my memory delay to 3 and then 2 until I got the best possible image. The funny part is that when I first got it I was amazed with the HD picture, but now I don’t know if is just that I got used to it and became a little more picky about the PQ or maybe the TV just went bad.

The question here for the experts, those who has got 2 or 3 sets until they got the keeper, is it possible to get a good picture that you can sit 3 feet away from TV and still looks as good as a normal PC monitor, no jittering, macro-blocking, stuttering, etc.

You know am use to SD thru Directv, digital signal too, and I was hoping to get better PQ from a real HDTV with OTA antenna, and at this point I rather watch my shows on my older SD Panasonic TV.

Do you guys have any recommendations? And if so is to return it and try another one, what is the best process to do this, (return and then buy another one with the refund or buy another one, compare them, and then return the bad one, etc) let me know what has had worked out for you the best.

Thanks a lot

[Dave Kristol]

I've been using this TV for a couple of weeks now, and I am not so satisfied.
The PQ in terms of colors is not so bright, the colors are not vivid at all, and YES believe me I’ve been tweaking it a lot and I got it set to the best picture possible, at least for my eyes.
Besides the color, my main concern is the artifacts and jittering, I cannot get closer than 4 feet because it looks really bad. And yes I set my memory delay to 3 and then 2 until I got the best possible image. The funny part is that when I first got it I was amazed with the HD picture, but now I don’t know if is just that I got used to it and became a little more picky about the PQ or maybe the TV just went bad.

The question here for the experts, those who has got 2 or 3 sets until they got the keeper, is it possible to get a good picture that you can sit 3 feet away from TV and still looks as good as a normal PC monitor, no jittering, macro-blocking, stuttering, etc.

You know am use to SD thru Directv, digital signal too, and I was hoping to get better PQ from a real HDTV with OTA antenna, and at this point I rather watch my shows on my older SD Panasonic TV.

Do you guys have any recommendations? And if so is to return it and try another one, what is the best process to do this, (return and then buy another one with the refund or buy another one, compare them, and then return the bad one, etc) let me know what has had worked out for you the best.

Thanks a lot

Hmm. You didn't say what firmware version you've got. I've got 06/03/03 (3rd set, keeper). I've only seen OTA HD on the Sceptre, not via DirectTV, cable, game console, or PC. I much prefer watching programs in HD to watching SD programs via cable on my old Sony TV, but I sense that I'm a less critical (or technically knowledgable) viewer than many here. To me, the detail is far superior, and I like the 16:9 image. Because of the size of my room, I am probably about 3-4 feet from the TV when I'm watching it.

I can't speak to differences between the Sceptre and a PC monitor, nor am I familiar with the PQ artifacts you describe. I occasionally see pixelation of the HD picture due to signal strength, which depends on the station. I'd say my chief PQ complaint is that the picture tends to be dark, with poor dynamic range, poor ability to distinguish darks.

Dave Kristol

[hakujin]

Hmm. You didn't say what firmware version you've got. I've got 06/03/03 (3rd set, keeper). I've only seen OTA HD on the Sceptre, not via DirectTV, cable, game console, or PC. I much prefer watching programs in HD to watching SD programs via cable on my old Sony TV, but I sense that I'm a less critical (or technically knowledgable) viewer than many here. To me, the detail is far superior, and I like the 16:9 image. Because of the size of my room, I am probably about 3-4 feet from the TV when I'm watching it.

I can't speak to differences between the Sceptre and a PC monitor, nor am I familiar with the PQ artifacts you describe. I occasionally see pixelation of the HD picture due to signal strength, which depends on the station. I'd say my chief PQ complaint is that the picture tends to be dark, with poor dynamic range, poor ability to distinguish darks.

Dave Kristol

I agree 100% with your complaints Dave. jvargasg, the pic OTA is WAY better then anything I've seen through DirectTV on my 43" Sony RPTV so not sure what you're experiencing to say that but Dave is right. Picture tends to be dark, subsequently losing the ability to distinguish darks (black, black, black, not range).

For the price I still love the set. Great with 360, I love WS OTA, great as a computer monitor (best in price range?), not so great with SD, not so great with darks (nightime scenes are yucky), but a good bang for buck nonethelesss. I think I'll be holding on to mine until something better comes along in the price range. Say LCD resolutions matched with plasma range and contrast ratio; at which point off to the C****. Gosh, I"m a cheap SoB.

[Leezure King]

WOW, had to look up HTPC just to make sure I was going to talk about the same thing.Im a newbie in some areas.Forums for sure, I'll try and make this breif. Just read every post 95pgs. Still thinking I want a 37 sceptre, bought a 62 mitsubishi DLP.last year. I love it ! looks better in the dark though.MY thought was kill 2 birds with 1 stone,Home theater HDTV and big gameing, Big is better Right? Not.
Made a special chair and table just to game off it! Ended up gaming on my 21"CRT in my PC Area. still not sure why, Yes I am! You can stick your face right in it! I,m thinking you can do the same with this sceptre.Becouse of it's specs. red one post that sounded that way. But before I make the plunge,"Iv'e been saving for this awhile" I would like to know a couple more things,pip is sizeable? to how big. My mitsubishi has 2 tuners it wont make 2 digital screens at once, 1 digital 1 anolog,or 2 anolog. someones complaint was that the sceptre wouldn't display 2 digital sources , or would'nt accept 2 digital sources.

[Leezure King]

oops i wasnt done what key did I hit , Am I going to have a problem with a Pc as my main screen and a sd tv as pip I can live with that,or was it changing to hdtv and having the pc as a pip.

[Koui]

I would like to know a couple more things,pip is sizeable? to how big.PIP has three sizes, movable to all four corners, and at it's largest setting takes-up approximately 1/4 of the screen. All sources in the PIP window are displayed as 16:9 (SD is stretched). You can PIP one digital source and one analog source. In other words, you can't use it as a PC monitor over DVI and have the internal HD tuner in a PIP window. Westinghouse LCDs have better PIP options...but I'd never buy one of their products again.

[mde71]

I'm trying to decide between the Sceptre and a Dell 24" monitor, which would be half the price of the Sceptre. Using it as a computer monitor and for Xbox 360. Decisions, decisions...

[Koui]

I'm trying to decide between the Sceptre and a Dell 24" monitor, which would be half the price of the Sceptre. Using it as a computer monitor and for Xbox 360. Decisions, decisions...I had a Dell 24" monitor for about a month. To be able to read normal size text on it I had to sit 16-20" away. The overall brightness on the Dell (even after adjusting) made me feel like I was staring into a flashlight, which was giving me headaches and eyestrain. Repsonse time, image streaking, and viewing angle were also sub-par, IMO. An adjustable backlight might have helped but I think it was the fact that I had to sit so close to it that made it impossible to use (for my eyes anyway).

I don't have an Xbox but I do some PC gaming on my Sceptre. I don't notice any streaking and the viewing angle is quite good. PC text quality is excellent if you sit back around 3-4' and eyestrain is not a factor if you keep the backlight at 0. I watch HD, DVD, and SD Directv at 6-10' back and I'm quite satisfied with the PQ.

[s2ktaxi]

I just figured out what the problem is when the DVI input does not work at times from a PC.

Common problem - when a PC is connected via DVI and the Source PC cycled through other inputs, the DVI connection shows NO SIGNAL when you cycle back to it. I've tried:
- updating drivers (ATI X600 in my case made it worse because it would go to no signal immediately after the Windows XP start up screen)
- changing DVI-HDMI cables
- just unplugging the HDMI end of the cable and then back into the TV

The 3rd option works - this leads me to believe there's a problem with either Sceptre's implementation of HDMI/DVI where it does not recognize a cycle through the inputs as a reset of the DVI input where as a disconnect and reconnect of the physical cable does or the video card resending a signal when it's re-connected and stops sending a signal when physically disconnected but not when the TV soft switches.

[nikkai]

I am so divided now...

I was gonna pull the trigger on the Viewsonic 37, and now the sceptre comes back in stock... slightly more expensive... extra cost worth it?

[snoods]

I've had my set for just about a month now, and today a strange problem started occurring. The set freezes in that it won't respond to any buttons on the remote or the ones in the front of the set (except for the volume buttons on the remote.) The only way to get the set off is to do a hard boot by unplugging the power cord. I'll wait a couple of minutes, and then plug it back in, at which point the TV will respond to the first button I press on the remote. After that, it freezes again.

Anyone else have this problem, or have any suggestions?

Thanks!

[DouglasteR]

I've had my set for just about a month now, and today a strange problem started occurring. The set freezes in that it won't respond to any buttons on the remote or the ones in the front of the set (except for the volume buttons on the remote.) The only way to get the set off is to do a hard boot by unplugging the power cord. I'll wait a couple of minutes, and then plug it back in, at which point the TV will respond to the first button I press on the remote. After that, it freezes again.

Anyone else have this problem, or have any suggestions?

Thanks!


Omfg this looks like a hardware bug ! :eek: :(

[Greg Peterson]

I just spent hours reading this thread....and to think I was trusting the description on C***'s website! Thanks to you guys, all the secrets are out there.

So, as of April 30th, if I order from C***, it looks like I'll get a TV that has:

1. a QAM tuner
2. no S/PDIF jack (inside the TV)
3. difficulty mounting on a wall due to some odd dimensions

Can someone confirm the above 3 points are accurate, and...

1. How bad are the speakers? This TV is for our bedroom. My wife will watch shows like Gilmore Girls in HD. Obviously, great sound is not critical. Are the speakers sufficient for news & sitcom shows?

2. Is the QAM tuner okay? The QAM tuner is important to me since it eliminates the need for me to hook up the flimsy $20 Zenith HDRV antenna that I use for another HDTV in the house. Maybe all QAM tuners are the same, but maybe someone has compared this one to another QAM tuner in a HTPC, standalone receiver, etc.

3. If someone currently has this unit mounted on a wall, then can you tell me (1) what type of bracket you are using (model, make), and where you bought it; and (2) how many inches/cm off the wall the TV sticks out?

[s2ktaxi]

I just spent hours reading this thread....and to think I was trusting the description on C***'s website! Thanks to you guys, all the secrets are out there.

So, as of April 30th, if I order from C***, it looks like I'll get a TV that has:

1. a QAM tuner
2. no S/PDIF jack (inside the TV)
3. difficulty mounting on a wall due to some odd dimensions

Can someone confirm the above 3 points are accurate, and...

1. How bad are the speakers? This TV is for our bedroom. My wife will watch shows like Gilmore Girls in HD. Obviously, great sound is not critical. Are the speakers sufficient for news & sitcom shows?

2. Is the QAM tuner okay? The QAM tuner is important to me since it eliminates the need for me to hook up the flimsy $20 Zenith HDRV antenna that I use for another HDTV in the house. Maybe all QAM tuners are the same, but maybe someone has compared this one to another QAM tuner in a HTPC, standalone receiver, etc.

3. If someone currently has this unit mounted on a wall, then can you tell me (1) what type of bracket you are using (model, make), and where you bought it; and (2) how many inches/cm off the wall the TV sticks out?
I don't think mounting to a wall is an issue. I don't think it's any more odd of a size than any other flat panel display.
Speakers are definitely sufficient in that they produce sound :) but if you want something better, hook up a boom box to it for a simple solution.
QAM tuner works. I've used both the Sanus VMPL and VMPL2 - the VMPL2 being the lower profile - though not adjustable (you have the option of mounting it at 0 or 5 degrees). When installed with the VMPL2, it's about 5" total off the wall. I got mine off ebay for about $100 shipped.

[Koui]

Omfg this looks like a hardware bug ! :eek: :(I believe the problems that snoods and s2ktaxi (and others) are having are either defective sets or firmware issues. A true hardware bug would affect all currently shipping units. Sceptre's quality control is spotty at best and anyone thinking of buying one should be prepared to deal with a return and/or replacement. I should know, after going through 3 bad Westingouse 37w1s and one bad Sceptre. My C* customer service experience was a pleasure compared to BB's.

The replacement X37SV has performed flawlessly (so far) and has exceeded my expectations...especially at this price point. So it 'is' possible to get a decent large-screen 1080p LCD at a much lower price than ever before, but the tech is still in beta stage and we consumers are the testers.

[DouglasteR]

I believe the problems that snoods and s2ktaxi (and others) are having are either defective sets or firmware issues. A true hardware bug would affect all currently shipping units. Sceptre's quality control is spotty at best and anyone thinking of buying one should be prepared to deal with a return and/or replacement. I should know, after going through 3 bad Westingouse 37w1s and one bad Sceptre. My C* customer service experience was a pleasure compared to BB's.

The replacement X37SV has performed flawlessly (so far) and has exceeded my expectations...especially at this price point. So it 'is' possible to get a decent large-screen 1080p LCD at a much lower price than ever before, but the tech is still in beta stage and we consumers are the testers.

Great !! Its so good to hear that, i will buy my unit in the begining of the nex month :D

[SlashBatre]

I am thinking of purchasing the Sceptre in the next couple days through NewEgg, however, I'm weary of the jitter issue associated with v2. Should I assume that by now, I should be okay? Or should I contact newegg prior to the purchase and ensure that I don't receive a v2 set with the bad dvi?

[bshor]

Finally decided to go ahead and order the Sceptre. What are people using for their DVR solutions for the QAM tuner? I don't subscribe to cable, but I get expanded basic in my apartment building. I use and love my adored ReplayTV, but it's time for HDTV (my first). But what to use in replacing it? An HTPC seems like a very costly solution.

[Skenzin]

Had my sceptre for several weeks. Im really happy with it. I finally found the optimal input usage. I now have my xbox360 going into VGA. When the color is tweaked correctly it looks alot clearer and better than component and has definitly given me an edge in GRAW multiplayer. I moved my HD cable box to component and my HTPC to DVI.

The only thing that concerns me this set puts off some serious heat. I think its because I have my lamp set to 6 out of 7. I prefer a bright picture. Im worried that the heat might lower the life of the set. Any ideas?

[semuther]

The only thing that concerns me this set puts off some serious heat. I think its because I have my lamp set to 6 out of 7. I prefer a bright picture. Im worried that the heat might lower the life of the set. Any ideas?

I found that I can compensate for a low lamp setting by adjusting the brighness and contrast controls. You might give that, as well as dimming the ambient room lighting a try.

Steve

[Zoglog]

Am I the only V1 User that feels like returning this set and buying a LVM-42w2 Westinghouse instead? I never use the HDTV Tuner (and I can't even get reception from my new place) sigh =(.......... Also the input annoyances (Westy has direct button to input) And the bigger size and 2DVI in addition to a HDMI..... I think I really need to swap it. Problem is our fav warehouse retailer doesnt carry it and it is a tad more expensive, but worth it in my opinon......

[Dave Kristol]

Finally decided to go ahead and order the Sceptre. What are people using for their DVR solutions for the QAM tuner? I don't subscribe to cable, but I get expanded basic in my apartment building. I use and love my adored ReplayTV, but it's time for HDTV (my first). But what to use in replacing it? An HTPC seems like a very costly solution.

This article (http://dvr.about.com/od/dvrs/a/hddvr.htm) talks about HD DVR options, including the situation you describe. Sony sells two somewhat pricey DVRs that work with OTA and QAM HD. I do not have any experience with them.

Dave Kristol

[Koui]

I've had my 'keeper' Sceptre for a month now and I thought it might be cool if owners compared optimized menu settings for PC text, graphics, games, and/or HTPC use. I know there are variations between different sets, firmware, graphics cards, operating systems, media player software, and eyes..but it might be fun (and possibly useful) to see if there's a hint of some consistency in what looks good.

Here's mine :

Contrast 1