I was seriously considering the Hitachi 55 series, that extra 5" really makes a big difference. But, alas, they removed the PC connector which is a deal breaker for me :( Why oh why did you do this Hitachi? It was present on the last year's 51 series but is gone from this year's models.

bummer.

can't you go thru the hdmi? This is the only issue that's keeping me from the hd52 line also.

I was seriously considering the Hitachi 55 series, that extra 5" really makes a big difference. But, alas, they removed the PC connector which is a deal breaker for me :( Why oh why did you do this Hitachi? It was present on the last year's 51 series but is gone from this year's models.

bummer.

I can't speak for the 52 series but if the HDMI input works like the 51 series you can connect a PC through the HDMI input using a DVI to HDMI adapter, but it will only accept standard SD/HD resolutions i.e. 480p or 720p, but the bigger problem is that there are no picture size/position adjusments which will cause you to lose quite a bit of the picture due to standard overscan, like the windows task bar on the bottom. I tried using powerstrip to adjust the display properties to compensate for the overscan but it was not possible because of the fixed video properties the input will accept. On the 51 series, the RGB input operates just like a standard computer monitor allowing picture size/position adjustments and accepts just about any resolution up to the native 1388 x 768 resolution of the panel. The only downside of the RGB input is that it was missing a few of the picture processing features like noise reduction, black enhancement of the standard video inputs but my HTPC display settings and DVD player software has features well beyond those lost.

In my opinion dropping the RGB input was a mistake by Hitachi and if you want to use a PC with your plasma, to look at the Panasonic PX500 or the new Pioneer models.

I thought I would report back here for you guys after doing some serious evals. I went with the Sony 60" SXRD over a Hitachi 55" PDP because of screen reflections and black levels. I had evaluated the 42HDT51, 42HDT52, and the 55HDX61 and found that the black levels had not changed in the new generation (at least in the 42"). The black levels did not match that of the Panasonic and Pioneer PDPs. I find that Pioneer's blacks are barely acceptable to me and the Hitachi still wasn't there yet.

Now that I have moved from Alabama to Southern California...my viewing oportunities have expanded greatly. Last night I was able to critically view the 42HDX62, which was right next to the 42HDF52 and the 55HDX61. It appears that the HDX is finally a significant upgrade. The deep-black anti-reflective shield is awesome! It works as advertised. It significantly reduced glare over the HDX61 and also improved blacks. Unfortunately, the Pioneer Elites were in the next room over...but from going back and forth the blacks appeared very close and the glare reduction was at least equal if not slightly better on the Hitachi HDX62.

Had I waited, I'd have a tough decision to make between the SXRD and 55HDX62. I'm very happy with the SXRD, but I wanted to let you guys know the HDX is a serious upgrade this year (unless blacks and glare aren't important to you).
Finally im not alone in posting about the +'s on the HDX series, the 62 is really worth the extra, but to most the stnd will be just fine.

I can't speak for the 52 series but if the HDMI input works like the 51 series you can connect a PC through the HDMI input using a DVI to HDMI adapter, but it will only accept standard SD/HD resolutions i.e. 480p or 720p, but the bigger problem is that there are no picture size/position adjusments which will cause you to lose quite a bit of the picture due to standard overscan, like the windows task bar on the bottom. I tried using powerstrip to adjust the display properties to compensate for the overscan but it was not possible because of the fixed video properties the input will accept. On the 51 series, the RGB input operates just like a standard computer monitor allowing picture size/position adjustments and accepts just about any resolution up to the native 1388 x 768 resolution of the panel. The only downside of the RGB input is that it was missing a few of the picture processing features like noise reduction, black enhancement of the standard video inputs but my HTPC display settings and DVD player software has features well beyond those lost.

In my opinion dropping the RGB input was a mistake by Hitachi and if you want to use a PC with your plasma, to look at the Panasonic PX500 or the new Pioneer models.

Why cant you just use a video card with component out?

I also bought my new 42HDF52 from VO in San Mateo. Great place to shop, fantastic price, no pressure. I agree with the comments above about extended warranties and cables from the shops. Go buy your cables at Costco or online.

I have mine sunk into the wall and connected to the digital cable box via the DVI input. I connected the DVD via component cables and pulled a composite cable through to connect directly to a digital camera or whatever else. Combined it with the Athena Micra 6 home theater system and have a very good, relatively low-cost system that can annoy our upstairs neighbors at any time.

Totally happy with the picture quality - watched the Duke/ Indiana game last night on ESPN digital with some friends and the whole set-up looked and sounded great! I do suggest getting the AVIA home theater set-up disc (available on NetFlicks) and taking the time to needed to make all the adjustments.

You guys must all be in CA, the WA Magnolia stores do not carry hitachi directors series. Does anyone know if the WA stores plan on carrying hitachi or if the OR stores do?

For those in WA: I called the Seattle store and they said they did not carry any hitachi tv''s then I called the Bellevue store and they said they were getting the directors series in a few weeks.

Can anyone provide any input on optimal settings for the 55HDT51 (contrast, brightness, etc., etc.)?

I just had the TV delivered on Monday and am pretty pleased with it. Some dark scenes (in HD) tend to pixelate (posterization?) and hair (in SD) sometimes doesn't look so great. Other than that, I'm very pleased with the HD picture quality.

I've got the Avia disk on order, but have read that both Avia and DVE have shortcomings for Plasmas.

I bought the set from HH G and would recommend them, only if you don't have any questions! The salesperson was full of misinformation and insisted that plasmas can be adjusted in the same way that a rear projection set can. I'm no expert, but I do know that there aren't any bulbs in a plasma!
Those issues you are talking about are more likely an issue with the video feed, rather than the TV. If you dont get these issues with DVDs or HD signals like NFL football games, your TV is not at fault when you see the "issues" in other channels or shows

I originally purchased a 55HDT51 back in June of this year. Was very happy with it until I discovered some horizonal bleeding of bright objects. Those issues are described in this thread.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=566427&highlight=hitachi

You can read about my issues there, but bottom line was Hitachi didn't know what to do to fix the problem, so they basically exchanged my 55HDT51 for a 55HDT52. Therefore, I thought I'd give you my uneducated comments comparing the 2 sets.

As I said, I had the 55HDT51 for nearly 6 months and watched it all the time. Other than my issue above, I had also noticed the color banding problem that others have reports with the HDT51. I was really interested to see if the HDT52 improved on this and I can happily say, yes, to my eyes, it does look to be better. I only watched the TV for about an hour last night after getting it mounted, but in several scenes with a bright object (like the sun) where I would normally see the banding pretty easily, it was much less pronounced. I can't say it was gone completely, but it is definitely less noticable.

Other than that, my other general comment is that overall, the picture looked significantly smoother...much more 3D looking so to speak. I noticed this immediately as soon as I turned the set on. Maybe this has something to do with going from 10-bit to 12-bit color, but whatever it was, it was definitely noticable to me. Some other things;

- I like the menu's better...they are basically the same style, but they are just a bit nicer looking due to the shading. Not a real big deal though.
- I setup the TV-Guide but didn't have any data yet. Played with it a bit and for over the air stuff its pretty neat. Probably won't use it since I use my HD-Tivo.
- I really like the new look...no silver accents anymore (Yipee!)...very sleek looking, especially with the beveled speakers. Gives the set a soft look in my mind.
- The set is actually a bit smaller than the HDT51 and I think the mounting bracket screws are spaced differently. Not a big deal but I was able to center my HDT51 on the wall, but now, the HDT52 is not since I can't slide it any further on the mounting plate. The mounting plate is slightly off center so that I could hit the studs. Not a huge deal as its only about an inch off.
- I can't help but feel like the picture is a bit sharper and the colors more vivid

I have not had time to do any calibration yet...will do that over the weekend and report what I find. I'll give some more details after I spend some more time with the set.

Ohh...and by the way, as for my original problem which resulted in the TV's being exchanged, I have noticed quite a bit of improvement...the issue is still there slightly, but much much less pronounced.

Rich

...Ohh...and by the way, as for my original problem which resulted in the TV's being exchanged, I have noticed quite a bit of improvement...the issue is still there slightly, but much much less pronounced.
Good to hear that your new set is an improvement. I would hope that Hitachi addresses all these banding issues and black levels considering the premium you pay for them (still not as bad as Pioneer pricing though).

What does Over the air input setting do?

Good to hear that your new set is an improvement. I would hope that Hitachi addresses all these banding issues and black levels considering the premium you pay for them (still not as bad as Pioneer pricing though).
all these? i have yet to ever see a "banding" issue or poor black levels on my hitachi. Its funny all the comments on "problems" based on a retail store setup. :rolleyes:

Hi,

I was finally 'brave' enough to mount my 55" 55HDT52 Plasma on the wall (myself), when I ran into a couple of issues that I was hoping someone here could help me with.

I bought the Peerless PLA-1 (articulating arm), mounted to the wall, and then I went to mount the adaptor plate onto the Plasma...when I discovered that the adaptor plate for the 55HDT51 (PLP-HT55) does NOT match the hole pattern for this years model. Call to Peerless resulted in..."the only thing we have that will match is a Universal plate".

So, I got a universal plate, got excited to mount the Plasma (after 3 weeks of watching on the floor), and then I find that the Universal Plate (PLP-UN7) only matches up to 2 of the holes (of the 3) on each side (i.e., only attached to 4 total bolts).

Do you think this is OK, and if so, do I attach to the 2 upper bolts or the 2 lower? If I go to the 2 lower, it covers part of the inputs on the back.

What have others done?

Thanks for your input.

BTW - I'm getting a cable card today, and I'll see if the audio-lagging-video problem that I previously posted about is still present (only have this problem with OTA HD signals - not through STB).

I got my TV - Hitachi 42HDT51 - delivered on Wednesday Nov 30th, there are a couple of observations that are forcing me to take it back:

0) Used Avia to correctly balance all the settings and most of the programs look great.

1) Connect to a very White background and you can easily see Pink Hue on the edges of the screen. It looks really great on normal programs, but once in a while when the screen goes all white, it can be seen very easily. I connected to computer [over HDMI, 1080p/Virtual] and white background.

>> [Later Edits] I went back to Circuit City and tried another 42HDT51 and the problem was not there on the other set. But again, could not try extensively but am fairly certain that this is not a systemwide Hitachi problem.

2) Blues cause the whites to be washed out and look blue-ish. On InHD Channel, there is a show called "To the MAX" and it is about Skiing. It is clear that the White Snow is blue-ish and not white. On my LCD TV it is vividly blue. So something needs to give here.

>> Went to Circuit City and tried the same feed on the second 42HDT51 and it was the same problem. Seemed to be there to a certain extend on Samsung and LG Plasmas but did not exist on the LCDs.

Any comments? Thinking of swapping this for Pioneer 4360.

>> Went to Best Buy and checked out Pioneer 4361 and it looked good. However, could not test out the "To The MAX" as they did not have the feed

ankursingla - what tv was it?

I was at my local CC today and they had the Hitachi 55HDS52 plasma on the wall beside a Panasonic 50 inch plasma( TH-50PX50U) and both of them where next to the new Sony Microdisplay KDSR650XBR1.

Let me first say all the pictures looked great IMO but I felt that the Hitachi model looked the best. It had the best PQ. I tried to compare the black levels on both of the plasmas and it seemed that the Panny may have had blacker blacks but both sets seem to have excellent black levels in my opinion. The Panny picture looked a little soft on some scenes compared to the Hitachi.

I guess what suprised me the most was the PQ of the Sony. I had read so many articles and reviews about it being the set to have since it was a 1080P that I was disappointed in the PQ........do not get me wrong there was not anything wrong with the Sony's Picture but it just did not make me go "WOW" like I thought it would but.................the Hitachi 55 inch plasma did.

I may pull the trigger on this PDP sometime in the near future but only two things are holding me back. I would certainly like to see the new Hitachi 55HDS62 plasma that should be out soon to compare the PQ. The second thing is I was wondering if I should wait until next year to purchase a plasma when there are likely to be some 1080P plasmas available. I am sure those will probably cost an arm and a leg to buy................LOL. :rolleyes:

I bought a Hitachi 42HDM12 (monitor-only version of 42HDF52) a couple of days ago. I'm extremely happy with the picture quality. However, the TV emits a buzz/whine that is audible from the seating area about 8-9 feet away. It varies in volume with what's on-screen, becoming louder with bright images. I've read elsewhere the all plasmas have some level of buzzing, and the manual even says so. But I'm wondering if this loud level of buzzing is normal on Hitachi plasmas or if this particular set is defective in some way. Thanks for any advice.

I got my TV - Hitachi 42HDT51 - delivered on Wednesday Nov 30th, there are a couple of observations that are forcing me to take it back:

0) Used Avia to correctly balance all the settings and most of the programs look great.

1) Connect to a very White background and you can easily see Pink Hue on the edges of the screen. It looks really great on normal programs, but once in a while when the screen goes all white, it can be seen very easily. I connected to computer [over HDMI, 1080p/Virtual] and white background.

>> [Later Edits] I went back to Circuit City and tried another 42HDT51 and the problem was not there on the other set. But again, could not try extensively but am fairly certain that this is not a systemwide Hitachi problem.

2) Blues cause the whites to be washed out and look blue-ish. On InHD Channel, there is a show called "To the MAX" and it is about Skiing. It is clear that the White Snow is blue-ish and not white. On my LCD TV it is vividly blue. So something needs to give here.

>> Went to Circuit City and tried the same feed on the second 42HDT51 and it was the same problem. Seemed to be there to a certain extend on Samsung and LG Plasmas but did not exist on the LCDs.

Any comments? Thinking of swapping this for Pioneer 4360.

>> Went to Best Buy and checked out Pioneer 4361 and it looked good. However, could not test out the "To The MAX" as they did not have the feed


sorry i can't help w/ the picture problems which may be a bad unit as i've never heard of those issues. Can you tell me how it works when connected to a pc?

I purchased a 42HDM12 as well and can only say that I am extremely pleased with the picture quality. The detail in HD is spectacular and regular SD programs look as good as you can reaosnably expect.

Black levels are fine to my eye but this set is rarely viewed in a completely dark environment.

I have the TV connected to a Comcast-Motorola DVR via HDMI as well as component. The picture in component mode is subtly 'smoother' but only if you do a side-by-side comparison. HDMI audio appears to have a bit of an issue with volume modulation: It starts out at a high volume level then gradually settles down. Still, you cant beat the cosmetic appeal of having only one wire running into the plasma and I have noticed no intermittent 'glitches' with the HDMI connection.

I will be mounting the plasma onto a brick fireplace. I've ordered an articulating mount--an Omnimount UCL--and will mount directly onto the brick.

My wife just bought me the Hitachi 42HDM12

I'm dissappinted with the remote and the need to keep pushing the video button to get to the right input (I would have preferred one that had input 1, input2, input 3, etc buttons). It's not very kid friendly when you have
1-Direct TVHD-DVR
2-DVD Player
3-Game Cube

For a 6 year old.

Any suggestions on an afforable remote that supports macros...

How about one that will let me assign a button to each mode/input?

Hi everyone, I've been learning a lot reading the posts!

I just bought a Hitachi 42HDT52 and I love it. I have my xbox360 hooked up to it and its breathtaking. (and yes, I have experianced some image retention already and it was quite scary).

Heres my question... When I'm watching a movie or show in HD, when the picture gets dark (like a night time scene) I notice my image acts funny. Its almost like a flicker effect. The color goes from nice and black, then it gets lighter for a second or two, then it gets dark again. I cant figure out whats going on.

Is this normal? What is it called? How do I fix it? I would appreciate any feedback. I just bought the set on Friday and I'm worried its a problem with my set.

I'm seeing the exact same thing. I don't have any answers, but if I find out I'll let you know.


Hi everyone, I've been learning a lot reading the posts!

I just bought a Hitachi 42HDT52 and I love it. I have my xbox360 hooked up to it and its breathtaking. (and yes, I have experianced some image retention already and it was quite scary).

Heres my question... When I'm watching a movie or show in HD, when the picture gets dark (like a night time scene) I notice my image acts funny. Its almost like a flicker effect. The color goes from nice and black, then it gets lighter for a second or two, then it gets dark again. I cant figure out whats going on.

Is this normal? What is it called? How do I fix it? I would appreciate any feedback. I just bought the set on Friday and I'm worried its a problem with my set.

Connected to the PC, I can see the whites being dominated by blue and the white snow almost have a blue tinge to it. Is it the Processor problem in the Media Receiver. Comparing the same on a Dell 2005FPW LCD, this problem does not exist.

relic5279 and emperorbob:

I read about this same "issue" here (probably earlier in this thread). I have also experienced this with my 55HDS52. If memory serves me correctly, it has to do with the "dynamic" setting for contrast mode. Change that setting to "normal" and that flicker should go away.

This dynamic setting is actually a feature for the set. But I'm not clear on exactly what it does or when it would be useful. Hope this helps!

Just a follow-up to give propper reference... I finally found the post that I was referring to about the changing black level or brightness issue; it was not from this thread. I can't post links, but here's the exchange I mentioned :) Bobbart2000's suggestion fixed the issue for me anyway.

==========================================================

thread title: Clayface and Contrast level on Hitachi

Quote:
Originally Posted by sdc888
I Have A 55hds52 And One Thing I Have Never Seen Is Clayface. I Am Keeping The Contrst Around 50 Until After Break In. I Have Seen Some Banding In Bright Scenes But It Is Minimal. The Only Problem I Have Is Changing Black Levels In Low Light Scenes. It's Like The Tv Can't Make Up Its Mind On How Dark The Picture Should Be And It Toggles Back And Forth With Different Black Levels. Any Help On This Would Be Appreciated.


response by bobbart2000:
This sounds like you have the "Contrast Mode" set to "Dynamic" which is the default setting. The "changing black level" issue should go away if you set this to "Normal".

==========================================================

So, I'm a happy owner of the new Hitachi 42HDS52. My girlfriend who is A. not into any sort of electronics and B. Would NEVER sit down to watch a Star Wars movie with me could not believe how cool the TV looked. She thought the cabinet was so unlike a normal TV, she would love to have one in her home. Then, I was watching some of the key scenes from Episode III ROTS, and she actually wanted to watch the whole movie with me. She asked me to start it from the beginning so we could watch the whole thing. Mind you, she went to the theatre with me to see it and fell asleep. A few times in the theatre. At home, she commented she could not believe how much better it looked than in the theatre. She even commented that some of the scenes, especially the city scenes on Coruscant, the Obi Wan/Greivous/Anakin battles and the sun setting scenes, looked like we were looking through a window. WOW! This TV is something else.

Colors are amzing on this screen. I could not believe how bright, natural, and clear they looked. I even didn't mind watching Desperate Housewives. (=P) qI'm connected via component cables on my Cable box for high def. I will get an HDMI cable, and I can't wait to see what that looks.

The sound is pretty good on the TV, and has alot of audio options. I was surprised it had so many.

Swivel stand is quite useful. Too bad I will eventually move this into the bedrrom and mount it on the wall, once I find a suitable 50" for the living room. I'm tempted to buy another one of these for each, instead of a 50.

A few things:

- Image Retention - I took the TV out of torch mode. Everything about 40%, Black Enhancement off, Color Temp standard, DNR off, Dynamic contrast was on though. Even still, I couldn't help playing some Halo 2 (I REALLY couldn't resist) and image retention was DEFINATELY an issue. Especially items like the shield meter, and score counters. The score counter is an especiallty bright red and blue color, and it stuck. I wanted to try Star Wars Battlefront II, but didn't want to risk it.

I also stuck in Episode III and used the THX Optimizer, and I got image retention from the convergance test. The one withl all the colors, b/w square boxes, and lines to adjust sharpness and color.

Finally, I was setting up my cables box settings this morning to make sure it doesn't shut off during the day, and the plasma retained the image from the setting box. I was in there for MAYBE 8 minutes. I used the screen saver wipe to clean it up, but still.

I'm hoping this is just because of the break in period, and will go away as the plasma gets more use. I would hate to not be able to play Xbox or Xbox 360. At the least, I should be able to use the dialouge boxes on my equipment without fear.

PIP - Is there way to swtich the input in PIP? Say I want to see what's on Component 1 on one screen and Component 2. It would seem like a waste if I can only PIP what's connected to the Tuners. I use a cable box so I have no need for the Coax inputs. Any ideas?

Blacks - I don't know. I came from watching on a 2 year old Sony 34KBXBR (widesscreen, 200 lb. monster) and some of the blacks on the plasma seemed more like a really dark gray. It also might have to do with the frame of the TV being a liquid black that makes it stand out so much. I fiddled with some of the settings and noticed I lost details in dark scenes, like Vaders cape in Episode VI ROTJ.

In Episode III, it seems like some of the dark scenes, especially the Obi/Anakin fight, the blacks would look really black and amazing, but some scenes seemed like that washed out dark gray. I am using Sony Dream System DVD player connected component, in progressive mode.

When playing Halo 2 (Xbox component cables, not the box, but the cables), I tried one of the boards named Relic, and some of the dark areas seemed like a washed out gray, and not really dark. I didn't try a really dark board like Waterworks, but I noticed the image retention, so I didn't want to risk it. I know some of you guys may not have ANY idea what I'm talking about, but some of you might, and I think it makes a good comparison.

I don't know if this is indicative of all plasmas, or just this one, or maybe I have a defective unit? This is my first plasma, after literally, months of research, comparisons, and waiting.

I didn't notice this in the store (CC), but the set seemd to have a better picture than the Panny 42" and Pany 50" (the px50 I believe) and equal blacks. They were all next to each other there. Yes, I messed around with the controls on all. Also, this set had more connection options, PIP, and looked nicer, cabinet wise.
Just goes to prove that the TV's look nothing like they will at home when in the store.

All in all, I like this plasma ALOT, I think I might be able to deal with the black levels, and since I'm coming from a tube, and so new to this whole plasma thing, maybe I'm just being picky.

Any comments?

This is a follow up to my previous post.

Thanks for the advice Cooley, I tried what you said. I turned off the dynamic mode....But the tv is still doing that odd flicker thing.

I tried fooling around with all of the settings too. I'm wondering if it has to do with the contrast. I have my contrast down at 19% because I've been worried about burn in and image retention. While playing Call of Duty 2 on the Xbox 360 I noticed some scary burn in.

Regardless the constant dimming and brightening is growing annoying. I was watching Sleeper Cell last night on Showtime HD and in all the dark scenes the flicker effect was happening. I tried fiddiling around with other settings, no improvement.

Anyone have any other ideas?

Also, anyone know how to get rid of the TVGUIDE feature everytime i turn on the tv?

The Hitachi's have a very low persistence phosphor and an orbiter feature which makes them quite resistant to burn-in but I would be very careful during the first 100 hours break-in period to dial down the contrast and not to leave on any stationary images or letterbox images with black bars. You can use the aspect ratio control to make sure the images cover the entire display. I have an 55HDT51 and have several annoying issues with my Hitachi like banding, low level buzzing, excessive overscan, but burn-in isn't one of them.

To the guy who mentioned an issue with black level, the Hitachi's have an awesome picture with a good HD source but black level is not as good as the Panasonics, even with there latest models. You would have problems seeing this a well lit room or at the store, but turn the lights down and the best the Hitachi's will do is dark gray. Also I would not recommend turning on dynamic contrast or black enhancement as they do not make the blacks any blacker on a properly adjusted set, they just make the grayscale non-linear and crush the blacks.

Hi,

I just purchased what I think is the Hitachi overseas equivalent to the 42HDS52. Overall, I am very happy, but I know that I need to upgrade my DVD player since it only has an s-video out.

Question: what kind of DVD output over component video or hdmi, in combination with the VirtualHD II picture processor, will give me best results on the 1024x1024 screen? 480i/480p/1080i?

Has any tested to see if it is really worth it to upconvert in the DVD player vs. the PDP? Any thoughts?

M.

As I am awaiting the arrival of my new 42HDT52, I am trying to figure out the best configuration of my components and how best to control everything. Does the AV Net IR Blaster work only with the Hitachi remote, or should it work with others (i.e. Dish 942 IR, or Harmony)? My logic says IR is IR so any remote should pass through, but I'd like some confirmation.

Also, has anyone had success driving the Hitachi with the Dish remote? I'd love to upgrade to a Harmony, but I'm trying to keep my spending down. Plus I've gotta leave something for my wife to buy me for my birthday! :p

thanks for the info...

-g

I haven't tried the IR blaster option yet. Still waiting for the break in period to finish up. I can't wait to play Xbox and 360 on this thing. Although, I'm still getting image retention when using the option box or channel guide through my STB. I'm getting use to the blacks, I suppose. I have 30 days to take it back to CC if I can't deal with it, so at least I have that.

I was watching the PBSHD channel yesterday. Well, not really watching, just had it on so I can get through the 100 hour break in, and some of the scenes were incredible.

Does anyone know how to change the input that's shown on the PIP picture, or is it strictly for use on the the built in tuners only? It didn't say you can change it in the book, which would render this feature useless since I have an STB.

I posted much earlier in this thread about the "flicker effect" with really dark scenes. I was able to reproduce it with a specific screen with scrolling text on my Xbox and after turning OFF Dynamic Contrast it went away. But I still get the same flicker effect on dark scenes on any type of content - standard def or high def. It is pretty annoying actually. And I'm on my 2nd set already, I have the 55HDS52 purchased through CC. I had some other strange issues and had the unit replaced, all issues resolved except that flicker effect. I was hoping that would go away too when I had the unit swapped out, I had one of the first ones available.

to akumaxv:

I haven't had time to try yet, but I've been wondering about this myself. I was just looking at the manual online and it is very cryptic, but it suggests that it does exactly what your wanting.

The part I'm reading in the manual is on pg. 28......

"To select between main picture and PIP sub picture tuning, use the CURSOR PAD button [on] the remote. The Green highlighted channel display will move with every press of the CURSOR PAD buttons."

and then there's this from the same page.....

"You can watch a TV program while viewing other programs from any of the video inputs."

So it appears that it does work, but the manual sure doesn't give much direction how :) I'm anxious to play around with this tonight....

I have been reading these posts for awhile. Thanks for all the helpful info. I recently purchased the 55hdt52 and I love it. I got a unbelievable price at a store in Wisconsin. They even threw in the swivel stand for free because I got them to put in writing that the purchase cost included the stand. They did not even know if the stand came with it or not. Fortunately I knew the stand did not come with it from reading posts here and from reading the official site. So thanks for saving me some extra cash.

Does anyone have any opinions on DVD players? I currently have a sony progressive scan DVD player that I have hooked up via component cables. I was reading about the new "upconverting DVD players" and how they can produce 1080p via HDMI cables. Would this picture look any better than the current picture I have from the progressive scan dvd player?

I've had my 55hdt52 for a couple weeks.

I first brought a denon 1920, but the picture was horrible. blacks had purple macroblocking over hdmi. i tried component, and the black problem was better, but the picture was soft.

so i switched to the new sony dvp-ns3100es this weekend (even got it in black). great picture, good blacks, no macro blocking. watched 5th element as a test. i set the dvd to 720p as its has a better deinterlacer than the tv.

the only disappointment so far is the tv does not pass 5.1, so i had to run an optical cable to the receiver.

i had hoped to use the tv as the switch, pluging all components into tv and using the optical out to the reciever. makes operation simple. this worked great, the tv even converts analog inputs to the optical out, but only stereo, will not pass 5.1

looks like a hdmi receiver is in my future.

What is the hdmi spec on the new x2 models, is it 1.1 or 1.2?
It will not pass a digital signal over hdmi or optical in 5.1?


I've had my 55hdt52 for a couple weeks.

I first brought a denon 1920, but the picture was horrible. blacks had purple macroblocking over hdmi. i tried component, and the black problem was better, but the picture was soft.

so i switched to the new sony dvp-ns3100es this weekend (even got it in black). great picture, good blacks, no macro blocking. watched 5th element as a test. i set the dvd to 720p as its has a better deinterlacer than the tv.

the only disappointment so far is the tv does not pass 5.1, so i had to run an optical cable to the receiver.

i had hoped to use the tv as the switch, pluging all components into tv and using the optical out to the reciever. makes operation simple. this worked great, the tv even converts analog inputs to the optical out, but only stereo, will not pass 5.1

looks like a hdmi receiver is in my future.

Allrighty, so I got to play around with the PIP on my 55HDS52 last night. Once you're in PIP/POP mode, just as the manual kindof says, pressing the curson buttons left or right changes the audio from the main picture to the sub-picture. It also changes the "focus" of control from the main picture to the sub-picture.

So once you change the focus (you can tell this easily by the green outline of the picture in SPLIT mode for example), you can press input and ALMOST change the input source for the sub-picture. This is where I hit a snag and I don't understand why.

I just have a temporary setup since we've recently remodelled the room and we're not quite finished. So I have a cheap DVD player and a SD DirecTV receiver, both hooked up via S-Video directly to the display (input 1 and 2 respectively). My main picture was input 1 and my sub-picture would have been input 2 - but I could not select input 2 for the sub picture (that input was grayed-out from the menu). Is this because both inputs are using S-Video? Or because of the source format? Or some other reason? Is there some kind of "work around" for this?

I'm lost here, and any help or explanation would be great! Thanks!

I just bought the 55 hds52 and noticed the flicker effect in dark scenes and to a lesser effect on light scenes , but they were still there. So i tried turning off contrast from Dynamic to Normal even tried black enhancement too off, and i still saw the flicker. This was on all channels which were hd 1080i over cable hdmi and dvd 1080i over hdmi , iwas to the point of taking the beast off the wall and taking back. So last night i started playing with different settings , no luck still there, so at that time i was playing matrix revolutions on dvd and i went up to the screen and the black bars at the top and bottom of the screen were black then i noticed they were not black anymore, the pixels turn on slightly which was giving me that flicker effect , the pixels were doing this all over the screen and then turning back off again and again. Okay so ill get to the point, after playing around some more i found that when i changed the output of the dvd player to 480p the picture looked awesome and the flicker went away ,so i tried 720p and no problem, went to 1080i and their was the problem, flicker all gone . Also switched my cable box to 720p and flicker gone . So i can keep the tv now, but hitachi will get a call from me for a future fix or update to this problem , i could take the tv back but iam sure id see the same problem since others are having the same problem, well i hope this helps.

Has anyone heard if the 55HDM71 (the professional monitor) been discontinued? I called Plasma Concepts, Plasma House and TV Authority to purchase this display. All are currently out of stock. The folks at TV Authority said "they heard from the guys in the warehouse" that the 55HDM71 has been discontinued.

Given that the consumer lineup was recently refreshed, it wouldn't surprise me that the 55HDM71 has been discontinued and a new professional model is forthcoming. Also, CES 2006 is less than a month away and the timing might make sense. I also saw an article that Hitachi is working on a 55" 1080p PDP (can't find the link) and I saw the 42" 1080p annoucement today.

Can anyone confirm if the 55HDM71 is officially dead?

-Tim

I was reading on some other forums that having an up-converting dvd player is pointless because the TV should do that for you. Does the 55hdt52 do this automatically or did I misinterpret the other posts?

I am kind of on the fence in deciding whether or not to purchase a new dvd player that upconverts to 1080i or 1080p because:
a) I already spent enough on the TV and
b) this upconversion sounds a lot like marketing hype and no one can decide on whether or not its worth it. Some say it works great others say the picture is not any better.
c) Should I wait til an affordable true HD or Blue Ray players come out

Does any one else have any experience hooking up an upconerting-dvd player to the 55hdt52 or any input that would help me to decide to buy or not to buy?

I had an upconverting dvd player through hdmi and component, it really wasn't worth it.
I think a good progressive component output is all you need.

Hi All,

I just brought home my Hitachi 42HDT52 and connected my Sony DVPNS70H up-converting DVD player. The televsion says it is running at 1080i, so that's good (I think, right?). I have the two connected together via a Monster Cable HDMI cable.

Couple of questions:

1) I noticed during DVD play back there is a slight half inch area across the top that is not filled. Is this a problem with the monitor, the connection, or dvd player? When I watch regular cable, that area is completely filled, so I'm guessing it's the latter two. Any idea on how I could fix this?

2) While I'm playing "widescreen" DVD's, it still has the letterbox on top and bottom. I can adjust it to the 16x9 zoom, but the monitor looses some detail and part of the movie is cropped. I'm sure it' can't be good for the monitor to continously watch letterbox movies w/ the two black boxes top and bottom. Is there a solution to this that I haven't discovered?

thanks,
chikai

Hi All,

I just brought home my Hitachi 42HDT52 and connected my Sony DVPNS70H up-converting DVD player. The televsion says it is running at 1080i, so that's good (I think, right?). I have the two connected together via a Monster Cable HDMI cable.

Couple of questions:

1) I noticed during DVD play back there is a slight half inch area across the top that is not filled. Is this a problem with the monitor, the connection, or dvd player? When I watch regular cable, that area is completely filled, so I'm guessing it's the latter two. Any idea on how I could fix this?

2) While I'm playing "widescreen" DVD's, it still has the letterbox on top and bottom. I can adjust it to the 16x9 zoom, but the monitor looses some detail and part of the movie is cropped. I'm sure it' can't be good for the monitor to continously watch letterbox movies w/ the two black boxes top and bottom. Is there a solution to this that I haven't discovered?

thanks,
chikai

There are several formats for widescreen dvds, thats why you see a black area, this is ok and normal. Zooming in, you lose part of the dvd picture.

Well I thought setting the output to 720 p solved the flicker issue , but i still see it . so far i still have not seen this in 480p on the dvd player, nor on the cable box at 480p + 480p looks the best on this set so far for dvd play back, but not so good on cable, also i cant seem to get the reds from always leaning toward the orange side, i also noticed this at the store in was the only set that looked orange when the other sets looked red, i thought i could adjust at home better but have had no luck, i had to take this back for the 50 inch panny which had the best picture of the two which were the best tvs there, but i loved the size and look of the set+ 2 hdmi and on and on, anyone else with these sets notice the same or are these just a few bad seeds?

Did you have a change to call Hitachi yet? I'm going to try and call them in the next couple of days to see what they have to say.

Well I thought setting the output to 720 p solved the flicker issue , but i still see it . so far i still have not seen this in 480p on the dvd player, nor on the cable box at 480p + 480p looks the best on this set so far for dvd play back, but not so good on cable, also i cant seem to get the reds from always leaning toward the orange side, i also noticed this at the store in was the only set that looked orange when the other sets looked red, i thought i could adjust at home better but have had no luck, i had to take this back for the 50 inch panny which had the best picture of the two which were the best tvs there, but i loved the size and look of the set+ 2 hdmi and on and on, anyone else with these sets notice the same or are these just a few bad seeds?

Guys,

I'm on my second 55HDT52 in 2.5 weeks.

I can't get around the flicker issue either, I find it especially noticeable on really dark scenes. Doesn't matter the source ...

I have an option to return this and pick up the Panny 50" or Toshiba 50" panny-sister. Or got to a 50 Elite (which is more money).

I called Hitachi and all they could direct me to was a local company that would have to send out a technician to have a look.

I'm trying to decide this weekend what to do. I have the WAF on the 55" - even she doesn't want to go down to a 50 ...

Does anyone think Hitachi will get their heads out of the clouds and address this soon?

:( + :mad:

I'm officially scared away from considering the Hitachi over the Toshiba due to these posts.After the weak blacks,pink hues,blue whites and flickering blacks i'm running from that decision.Now it's down to Toshiba and the Panny.Very sad because it's beautiful in the store.Any reason to talk me back into it before I make my move this week?

No problems from mine. I'm still quite pleased with my decision :)

Nope i havent had a chance to call them yet, iam afriad ill get the answer that they would send someone out, we know how that will go on and on. i also see the flicker in every source , just not as defined in 480p but still there. also my sound shuts down and i have to turn the tv off to reset this problem, its to bad my wife loves the set but this is going back and iam getting my first pick 50 panny it had the best picture, but i went with the wow factor of the 55incher, just cant wait for a fix on 5 grand. for those of you that are looking to purchase my +s are cabinet, sound , connections 2 hdmi, size, two step mute on volume up wheel.. negatives are flicker in dark scenes,orange reds, volume problems on mine anyway.

if you have too much flicker, turn of dynamic contrast and/or black enhancement.

Sorry to hear that some other people are having the flicker problem... But i'm glad I'm not crazy and it actually exsists!

I too tried changing my cable box from 1080i and 720p....it helped a little bit, but not a lot. For the money I spent on the set both setting should work correctly.

I called Hitachi and they were very rude. They keep telling me they have never heard of this problem and that I need to adjust the black level on my tv, cablebox and dvd player. I politley tried to explain to the guy on the phone, Adam, that other people are having this problem. He was insistant on me trying to change the black levels.....what a crock of poop! I've called back multiple times and everytime I get a different answer on what I did wrong and what I should try to fix. Hitachi just does not want to take responsibility.

I have a few days left if I want to return the set....I really love it, it's my first HDTV. But with Hitachis piss poor attitude on customer satisfaction i'm really concerned that the issue will never be resolved. I got a great deal on the set... I got the 42hdt52 for $2500...

1) To everyone having this problem with the "Flicker effect" in dark scenes could you please post how you handled it? (no, adjusting dynamic to normal or black level does not fix it)

2) What do you good people think I should do? I'm really on the fence about it.... Also is there any plasma in that price range that I could purchase that you could reccomend?

so I got my wall mount up, brackets mounted to the 42HDT52, and now I can't figure out how to remove the base!

I know it shouldn't be this hard, but I just can't seem to get it apart.

HELP!!! :confused:

EDIT:

Never mind. I figured it out - the bolts were covered by the mounting bracket.

After reading more about the flicker problems some folks are having, I'm not so sure that the issue I briefly experienced was the same. We should try to reach a consensus on all the aspects of the "flicker effect".

My experience: an extremely slight brightening of all black areas (picture and letterbox bars) during very dark scenes while watching LOTR:Fellowship on DVD. I noticed this effect mostly in all of the "Moria" scenes. The flicker that I experinced was completely random. My guess would be that anywhere from 1 to 4 seconds would pass between each flicker. To reiterate, it was not a constant strobe effect flicker, but very random and only in very dark scenes.

For the time being, I'm using a crappy, old Toshiba DVD player that only has 480i output; so I can't comment on anything above 480i over S-Video. I'm also using lowered settings for brightness and contrast during the break-in (45 and 48 respectively).

After first seeing this flicker, I remembered reading another comment about it that suggested changing the contrast mode from dynamic to normal and turning off (or down) black enhancement. I followed the recomendations and the issue was resolved and I'm very pleased :)

Can't think of any other details. So how does this compare to everyone else? Same problem?

whew! a lot of activity since i was last in here. i'll throw my $0.02 on a several topics.

input selection: i have a Philips PMDVR8 8-device universal remote (selected because it works fairly well out of the box with a ReplayTV). i'm using code 507 under Hitachi TVs. by default, five of the play controls (rew, play, FF, etc.) were mapped to switch directly to specific inputs! none went to cable, but i think all five of the component/composite inputs were covered. could be handy, but it's also a little annoying when i'm watching something on the ReplayTV and i forget that the remote is in TV mode, and then i switch inputs when i just want to rewind the video... i also just noticed that the code list for the remote actually has a separate section for plasma TVs, so i may have to try the Hitachi codes listed there.

flicker effect: i've seen this a little bit on my 42HDT52, but it seems to have settled down or i'm just not noticing it as much. getting the settings dialed in might help. having contrast mode set to "dynamic" definitely exacerbates the problem. i can't say for sure that i've really noticed this problem since changing that setting to "normal," but i don't think i've watched any really dark DVDs. the settings i'm currently using are down at the end of this post.

PIP: when two active images are being displayed, one must be digital and one must be analog. it's not very well worded, but this is described in the first paragraph of the PIP section of the manual, on p. 31. so if the non-highighted image is analog, and you press the "inputs" button, only digital inputs will be available, and vice versa. i can't test this thoroughly because i don't have any HDMI inputs, but that seems to hold true with digital vs. non-digital cable channels.

TV Guide always coming on: there's a setting called "auto-guide" that you need to turn off. it's described in the third item under "General Default Options" on p. 66 of the manual.

general behavior: the TV locked up on my once. it just went funny with a bunch of vertical color bars on the screen. i had to cycle main power to get it to come back to me. scary. :(

overall experienc: i'm still very pleased with the set. it does have some quirks, but i think the picture, the colors, and the features are great.


for reference, here's my setup...

input config:
- ant: unconnected
- cable: Comcast Extended (Expanded?) Cable, no cable box
- input 1: VCR, composite
- input 2: PlayStation 2, S-video
- input 3: ReplayTV, 480p component
- input 4: Pioneer DVD, 480p component

settings calibrated using Avia with a fair amount of light in the room. after initial adjustment, the decoder check showed some red push (around +10%, i think), so i adjusted the color setting slightly to reduce that.
- contrast: 35
- brightness: 54 (I originally selected 63, but dropped it a little to avoid washout)
- color: 38
- tint: 5 clicks left of center
- sharpness: 9
- color temperature: medium
- black enhancement: off
- contrast mode: normal
- noise reduction: low
- auto movie mode: on

Hey folks! I've had some time to play around with my 55HDS52 today and I've been trying to replicate the flicker problem. Long story short; I think I may have found out something. :P

I was testing a really dark scene from Star Wars I. This particular DVD was a fullscreen version (4:3) so naturally I had the TV in 4:3 expanded to fill the screen since i'm still breaking it in. To my surprise, the flicker was there!!

I kept reverse playing / forward playing this dark scene over and over while I changed different settings. Absolutely none of the video settings solved the flicker. (It is worth mentioning that the turning off black enhancement and/or dynamic contrast did seem to lessen the flicker but it was still somewhat noticeable)

I was really starting to get aggrivated....... until I started changing the aspect ratio. 4:3 zoom, zoom2, 16:9, 16:9 zoom.......nothing, no change, flicker was still there. Then I hit 4:3 standard, the native aspect of the DVD, and BAM!! The flicker was gone!!

Wow! So this may just be a problem with stretching a video to fill the screen. I'm gonna do the same testing with a widescreen DVD now.

Anyone else care to confirm this?

Thanks!

Allright, so here's what I found out after further testing on the infamous "flicker effect".

This time I was using a widescreen format DVD (LOTR: Fellowhip) and a dark scene that I had witnessed the flicker in before. To my surprise, 4:3 standard was once again the aspect ratio that cured the flicker. Ahh, but if it were only that easy...... :p

Out of curiosity, i turned off the gray side-bars and even in 4:3 standard the flicker was there again! Turned the gray side-bars back on, and the flicker was gone. I then went back to the Star Wars epI fullscreen DVD, and confirmed the same result. So here's what I'm getting out of this: if you want to completely cure the flicker problem, use gray sidebars. (not a very good solution, IMO)

Can anyone else confirm this? Or better yet, try to explain the logic behind this?
Thanks!

Still loving my new 42HDT52, but have had a couple instances with audio sync problems. First, OTA broadcasts occasionally are out of sync - video delayed slightly behind audio. I have been able to get it back in line by hitting the "info" button and cycling through the info screens. It usually catches up and all is well.

I know that the digital broadcasters are still working out bugs on their end, so I'm not completely finding the display at fault. However, I am definitely having sync problems with DVDs. Running a standard DVD (no upconvert) through the Component inputs on #3, the audio via the jacks on the set, plus digital audio through my receiver = a drastic sync difference. The audio coming out of the display is spot on with the video, but via my receiver/home theater audio system, it's way off.

Now, I like the sound out of the Hitachi just fine for most everything I watch, but I don't want to have my audio system collecting dust. It's a fairly simple system and unfortunately, it doesn't have any delay abilities built-in.

Has anyone else had similar problems with DVDs?? I don't really want to have to upgrade more equipment, but I'd also not like to return my set either. I need to know if it's a common condition or a faulty display.

Thanks for any feedback...

Well, I finally got my plasma..

I have had such a bad experience with San Mateo Video only that I am fuming. It looks like the only time I received nice customer service while I was in business to purchase. Once I paid it was all over.

I purchased this TV and the promised Tuesday delivery never happen.. nor did the Thursday and Friday delivery (which he said would be the latest) 11/25 I paid in full with money I had saved up. Steve promised me that he would come over Tuesday evening with a co worker and set it all up for me.. Tuesday came and went.. I placed numerous calls to VideoOnly and I found out later that Steve ended up out for 2 weeks (nice!) Every time I called I got bad customer service.. I was told I should have never been promised a delivery date.. most of the time when I spoke to someone there, I got the impression that they could care less for me as a customer.

I must have placed at least 5 calls since I first purchased the tv... last Friday I telephoned again and I was informed the dang thing had arrived a few days ago (why did nobody bother to ring me as they promised whenever I called ???)

I made arrangements to pick up the unit with my friend that same day 12/9 and once we had it home and set up.. I noticed.. very much to my dismay that the stand had numerous big gashes in the front and the back .. it looked like this unit (the square base) had been dropped a few times.. or in some sort of vice grip !

I called the store, not even getting as much as a apology, I was told just to return it to the store.. well hell ! my time is money too.. and not to mention that this TV already sits on it.. Living alone does not make things easier.. as I can not take the TV down to take the bad base back.

I can not believe they sold me a used base !!

The HDMI DVD player I got talked into when I purchased the TV is already broken ! (Toshiba SD-4980) The screen keeps freezing on me and sometimes it will not even let me shut it down when it acts up!

Oh, and additionally .. as I was picking up my unit one of San Mateo's Video only delivery people approached me and offered to come to my home to help me configure my TV and make sure i have it set up right..

He was going to come over tonight .. well, I called him yesterday after I spoke to the wonderful VO people and he was going to bring me the base while he was coming over.. and guess what ?

He just telephoned left me a voicemail, to let me know that he could not come over and that he realized now, that I live to far out for him .. and if he was to come over it would most likely cost me more... !!! ( I was going to pay me 40 dollars to come over my house, which is what VO charges for Deliveries and setup of their units!~!)

So far..
- I have a bad DVD player.. (That I still have to return)

- A base unit that was in some sort of "accident" before. (That I still have to replace.. and most likely dish out more than 40 bucks to get it replaced as I don't want to attempt to take the TV off myself)

- and a really bad taste in my mouth as far as this entire experience is concerned..

I will never every purchase anything that that store every again!!

I am a very busy working woman (yes I am a girl) and don't have time for all of this.. Do I like the TV ??? NO !!! I hate the darn thing because of all the BS I have had to put up with and I am still not done.

I should have gone to Magnolia and bought the Panasonic Elite and be done with!

Sorry to vent on you guys.. but I thought this should be shared as well

I am seriously considering hiring this guy (which btw.. is a VO store guy) to pick up the TV, Base and DVD player fo and get a full refund. The only fun thing about that is that I was told I might not have my money back for 3-4 weeks (way to trap me and rule me out for any other holiday sales) even though I paid in full with money sitting in my bank account!

Oh, and another thing .. when I found out about the delay in delivery of my unit (that Tuesday when it was supposed to arrive) I told the girl that I am considering just cancelling the entire order.. I was nicely (not) informed that I would not get my money back for 3-4 weeks and I might as well wait.

There was not 1 person that came thru for me at that store! I never encountered so many liars in my life. All of them no older than maybe 30 and nobody there taking responsibility or even trying to bother to turn the experience around.. I spend far to much for this tv for the experience I received!

sorry to hear about your experience. i bought mine at VO in sf. i didn't have it delivered or have any problems so i can't speak of bad experiences.

> I got the impression that they could care less for me as a customer.

"couldn't care less" is the expression. judging by your post, you wouldn't want to see them caring any less

If you go to Sound and Vision magazine online they seem to have the same problem with the "flicker problem". Check it out.

Also, Hitachi has been NO HELP whatsoever in resolving this issue. I get a different person each time on the phone and NO ONE has answers about it. They dont even offer to help!

They gave me the number of an authorized hitachi service technician. I called him and explained the problem. He told me that I should just return the set. Diddnt even offer to come out and look at it!

So I'm going to return my Hitachi 42hdt52! All because of a stupid flicker problem and lousy customer service. I WILL NEVER BUY A HITACHI AGAIN

:mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :eek:

Looks like it might be an inherant problem with the ALiS technology used.

Hitachi can produce a great plasma when you get one that works right. I have been following many of the posts on there plasmas over the past 2 model years and have never seen so many varied complaints on there plasmas yet on the other hand they also get many praises when one works right. One interesting thing I noticed is that I have never seen one person complain about there Director series products, which Hitachi says goes through a higher level of quality control. However based on everything I have heard and experienced there main line products definitely need quality control improvements. I am personally on my second and working on my third replacement Hitachi plasma. The first one buzzed, the second one has a severe banding problem and the third... well we'll see. I have also had problems with there customer service and getting them to acknowledge problems. They literally think because one unit has a loud buzz and another is barely perceptable that is just normal production variation and should be acceptable. I got the same response with the severe banding on my second unit. Since this was my second unit I could tell right away there was a problem. Having a service center come out an say there was nothing they could do was useless. It finally took sending them comparative photos and other factual data to prove my point.

Found a review of the 42HDT52. Sounds very mixed despite overall rating....

http://www.guidetohometheater.com/flatpaneldisplays/1205hitachi/

I'm pretty new to this forum an purchased my panel just after Thanksgiving. I wanted to comment on a few observations / issues to date.

Sync / Flicker
When I first hooked my plasma up to the Comcast box (noted below) and displayed 1080i, I immediately experienced flicker and a video sync problem. I was connected via a HDMI -> DVI cable and noticed in 16:9 standard mode viewing -- i see a "horizonal break" in the image about 5" down from the top -- very noticable in horizontal camera panning motions where the image is disconnected (like a lag) between the top of the image and the rest.

In my effort to troubleshoot, I have determined the following:
* Only happens in 16:9 with content from Motorola STB in every channel regardless of HD content or SD content
* SD conent viewed in 4:3 expanded does not exhibit
* In switching to OTA, any viewed in 16:9 standard does not exhibit

I called Hitachi and the technician was very helpful -- although he did not hear about the problem before, based on my description -- he suspected the cable box and suggested that I switch the cable box from 1080i to 720p.

Upon making this change, I no longer experience flicker or the sync problem. :) I need to watch more DVDs, but I haven't noticed either sync or flicker watching DVDs at 480p. I will switch out the STB soon to confirm the problem was isolated to the box.

Examples:
Notice the separation in the vertical columns...
http://www.pbase.com/image/53177848/medium.jpg
Notice the separation in "Toby's" head...
http://www.pbase.com/image/53177852/medium.jpg

Update -- upon switching out the Comcast box, the separation still exists in 1080i as before. This is leading me to conclude that it is the panel.

Black Level
I am just a novice, but when looking at certain content displaying black, sometimes it is displayed with green pixels scattered throughout the "black areas". Sometimes this is better or worse than others and I think depend on the quality / compression of the source signal. Is this normal on this panel or something to worry about re: settings or defects?

Update -- this is still happening and is quite noticable when the black boarder is seen on the top and sides.

HD OTA Tuner
I connected a cheap Radio Shack antenna to the ATSC tuner and was able to sync the local channels and watch them with minimal signal loss, however, recently without any changes to antenna orientation, the reception is much worse. Because of my installation, I don't have much adjustability where the antenna is -- would you recommend a different antenna or placement? I was struggling with this because the signal was OK -- now it's not. This is not that important as I'm only interested in getting CBS-HD OTA as Comcast doesn't carry this in Portland.

Nit Picking
Remote is pretty poor. Menu settings are limited. Menu navigation could be much better. Video switching could be better -- need to cycle through various options -- no direct switching.


Overall, I'm very happy with this display. I have done my research and probably would have gone with the Pioneer 42" but my cabinet only allowed 41.9" width and the Hitachi just fit. The price was good as was my service from Beaverton, OR Video Only - saving over $500 off of Circuit City.

Update -- coming close to the end of my 30 day return window at VO, I decided to return this Hitachi display and exchanged it for a Sony LCD Projection (42A10). Cheers.

Nit Picking
Remote is pretty poor. Menu settings are limited. Menu navigation could be much better. Video switching could be better -- need to cycle through various options -- no direct switching.


BTW - on the 55HDT52, you can directly access Inputs 1-5 via the remote (not Cable or Air inputs). When you program you're codes into the remote (Hold ENT down, enter 4-digit code), instead of just entering the 4-digit code, enter 4-digit code and then the input associated with it (1 through 5).

Now, when you select the component you want (e.g., DVD), you just hit the ENT button and it will directly select that input. No more hitting Input button, moving to the appropriate input, and hitting select.

Well, my Hitachi 55HDX62 "Director Series" television was delivered last Tuesday 12/6.

So far, I couldn't be happier with the way the set has worked. I have had no problems with any banding or flickering issues. The programs in hi def are awesome. The colors are vibrant and the picture has been flawless. SD channels are better than the CRT Mitsubishi I was watching them on before, but still after watching programs in hi def can you ever go back.

While watching football this past Sunday I was looking at the yellow first down line and their was not a hint of any "bleeding" of that yellow line (has been discussed with previous models). The clarity of the picture even had my wife saying how clear it was (and that's saying something).
I've never been a big fan of the Star War movies but I heard the latest movie was something to behold on a nice plasma television. I went out and purchased the latest movie (should I have just rented it?) and the viewing of this movie was spectacular. I was amazed of how the characters just jumped out of the picture. It was crystal clear with absolutely no issues. I'll be able to show off this tv with that movie. I was quite impressed.

Issues I was not entirely happy with.

1. If you order the 55" it does not come with a stand. If you don't mount it on the wall it will cost you $399.95 to purchase the power swivel stand.
2. I've has trouble downloading the TV Guide feature. I have the Comcast DVR cable box and every time the tv is off the cable box keeps changing channels but it's not downloading the info to the tv. This has been going on for 4 days now. I called Hitachi yesterday and they've been very helpful in trying to resolve this issue but I need to be home so we can get into the settings. I haven't been in a hurry because I do have the Harmony 880 remote so I'm able to utilize the guide on the cable box and just use the one remote but I would like to have this feature in case I need it in the future.

The Day & Night feature is nice. I was able to program my settings for the daylight hours and then select different settings for nighttime. Once I did this I went into the "Timer" portion of the menu and inputted the times I wanted this to take place. It automatically changes when you turn this feature on. Nice touch.

The settings I have used are pretty much what has been discussed in previous posts. I have the contrast set to 75 and brightness to 40. So far I don't see a need to increase because the quality so far has been excellent.

In conclusion, viewing a television is very subjective but I have no regrets with this purchase. The picture is beautiful and I've had no problems that others have described in other posts.

Well, my Hitachi 55HDX62 "Director Series" television was delivered last Tuesday 12/6.

So far, I couldn't be happier with the way the set has worked. I have had no problems with any banding or flickering issues. The programs in hi def are awesome. The colors are vibrant and the picture has been flawless. SD channels are better than the CRT Mitsubishi I was watching them on before, but still after watching programs in hi def can you ever go back.

While watching football this past Sunday I was looking at the yellow first down line and their was not a hint of any "bleeding" of that yellow line (has been discussed with previous models). The clarity of the picture even had my wife saying how clear it was (and that's saying something).
I've never been a big fan of the Star War movies but I heard the latest movie was something to behold on a nice plasma television. I went out and purchased the latest movie (should I have just rented it?) and the viewing of this movie was spectacular. I was amazed of how the characters just jumped out of the picture. It was crystal clear with absolutely no issues. I'll be able to show off this tv with that movie. I was quite impressed.

Issues I was not entirely happy with.

1. If you order the 55" it does not come with a stand. If you don't mount it on the wall it will cost you $399.95 to purchase the power swivel stand.
2. I've has trouble downloading the TV Guide feature. I have the Comcast DVR cable box and every time the tv is off the cable box keeps changing channels but it's not downloading the info to the tv. This has been going on for 4 days now. I called Hitachi yesterday and they've been very helpful in trying to resolve this issue but I need to be home so we can get into the settings. I haven't been in a hurry because I do have the Harmony 880 remote so I'm able to utilize the guide on the cable box and just use the one remote but I would like to have this feature in case I need it in the future.

The Day & Night feature is nice. I was able to program my settings for the daylight hours and then select different settings for nighttime. Once I did this I went into the "Timer" portion of the menu and inputted the times I wanted this to take place. It automatically changes when you turn this feature on. Nice touch.

The settings I have used are pretty much what has been discussed in previous posts. I have the contrast set to 75 and brightness to 40. So far I don't see a need to increase because the quality so far has been excellent.

In conclusion, viewing a television is very subjective but I have no regrets with this purchase. The picture is beautiful and I've had no problems that others have described in other posts.


Where did you buy this set from? I checked the CNET site and they do not have any internet retailers.

All the sources I have checked,even the Hitachi site indicates that this set is not available yet.

Just curious???????????????? :)

Thanks for any info.

1) I noticed during DVD play back there is a slight half inch area across the top that is not filled. Is this a problem with the monitor, the connection, or dvd player? When I watch regular cable, that area is completely filled, so I'm guessing it's the latter two. Any idea on how I could fix this?


chikai,

I'm not sure if anyone ever answered your question, so I will try to.

Your assumption is probably correct--it is the DVD player. If you look in the DVD player forum you shold see a huge thread on image shifting with the Sony DVP-NS70H.

If there is a way to shift the image around on your Hitachi, I would try using that to eliminate the issue.

Where did you buy this set from? I checked the CNET site and they do not have any internet retailers.

All the sources I have checked,even the Hitachi site indicates that this set is not available yet.

Just curious???????????????? :)

Thanks for any info.

I purchased this set from Magnolia Audio Video. The Magnolia stores that are located in BB do not carry the Hitachi brand only their stand alone stores. You can check their web site to see if a store is located in your state.

I believe you can only get the Director Series from the higher end video stores. They will not sell this series on the internet. If you find a store that carries this model check it out. I believe you won't be disappointed.

Good Luck.

...I believe you won't be disappointed. Good Luck.

Curious to know what you think about the black levels so far and did you compare this set to any Panasonics or other Hitachi models (S or T series).

Finally got my H10 install from DirecTV today (the H20 wasn't available in my area yet). This is my first HD experience and all I can say is WOW!! Discovery HD is kickass! I got my 55HDS52 just before Thanksgiving and I've had to watch crappy 'ol SD since then, but NO MORE I SAY!! :)

I'm now using HDMI rather than S-video; big PQ improvement for SD. I really don't see much difference between 720p and 1080i; but they're both way better than the 480i I've been getting. I was really surprised how sharp and detailed the HD picture is, and I haven't even properly calibrated it yet.

I haven't noticed any flicker effect in dark HD scenes yet (only on DVD with crappy connections which I've mentioned before). BTW, is there any new info about this problem?

Next step: upgrade my crap DVD player. Anyway, just wanted to celebrate a little!! :)

Congrats! I'm having the 42HDS52 delivered to my house tomorrow morning!

That 55" is beautiful, but simply too big for my bedrom!

cooley, Was your DVD connected via S-Video or Component?

Kid A: Thanks! And congrats to you too! Agree about the 55" Mines in the living room, but I woulda went with 42" for the bedroom as well.


scmguru: Yep, S-Video. It's an old Toshiba DVD player (480i only) - it does have component outputs, but I didn't have a cable. The H10 receiver came with a cheap component cable, so I'm gonna test that out for the DVD flicker effect later tonight (assuming that's why you asked). I'll post my findings.....

Just an update to my latest flicker test.

Using component (instead of S-Video) from my DVD player, the flicker seemed a bit less noticeable but was still there. :( On the upside though, I played around with other settings and at this point I feel confident that this problem is either (1) subsiding with further break-in of TV or (2) can be "tuned down" to a point where it is barely noticeable.

My feelings so far: I'm definitely keeping the TV. It has some quirks, but so do all the others. The flicker is my only gripe, but this only seems to happen in very dark DVD scenes where there is a small portion of the screen with a very bright light (example: LOTR, mines of Moria, after the entrance has collapsed, it's completely dark, and Gandalf lights his staff). I can live with that. :)

sorry to hear about your experience. i bought mine at VO in sf. i didn't have it delivered or have any problems so i can't speak of bad experiences.

> I got the impression that they could care less for me as a customer.

"couldn't care less" is the expression. judging by your post, you wouldn't want to see them caring any less

Thank you for caring.. and yes you are right, I was simply to upset to check my writing. That was probably very apparent after my rant.

One other thing, next to noticing that my base was badly damaged.. I double checked the website and it looks like I did not get the right base model. Mine is all flat and square. The one on the pictures I found has an arch and is slightly raised.

Could I have ended up with a base from a prior model?

If I have time, I will take pictures tomorrow and post.

Pictures in next post

Can someone please let me know if this is indeed the correct base stand for my model or is the stand for the "S" model that I saw on the Hitachi website.

Before I call the store, I would love your input on this. I am returning the stand because of the damage, but if it is the wrong stand on top of it, I should mention it before I go to the store.

http://beatrixflamenco.eaph2.com/share/Plasma/PICT0002.JPG

See damaged area .. there are at least 3 more like this in the back.

http://beatrixflamenco.eaph2.com/share/Plasma/PICT0003.JPG

Curious to know what you think about the black levels so far and did you compare this set to any Panasonics or other Hitachi models (S or T series).


Well, I was just comparing the Hitachi 55" Director's Series to the Pioneer 1130HD at the store yesterday.

Based on my viewing, the Pioneer had far better black levels (and was pretty much just better in general).

This seems to be supported by professional reviews. The Perfect Vision tested the Hitachi's black levels to be something like 0.11 fL while the Pioneer had 0.033 fL.

Bmkr,

What model is your TV? 55" or 42"? It looks like the same stand that I have my 55HDS52 on. I don't think there is a difference between 55HDS52 and 55HDT52 as far as the stand goes. Not sure about the 42" though...

That damage is bad. :( Looks like it was scraped along the edge as well. Pretty crappy for them to have sold it as new. Sorry about your luck, but you're doing the right thig by taking it back.

Thank you Cooley,

The model I have is the 55HDT52. When I look at the brochure provided the stand is different. As is the image online.
[URL=http://www.hitachi.us/tv/browse/plasma/plasma/55hdt52.shtml]

Since my experience with VO in San Mateo has been so negative, I am not taking anything they told me for granted. My problem is that I need someone to come over to my house now just to get the TV off the stand to return to the store, then to help me place the TV on the replacement stand. The store did not even bother to apologize for any of the troubles I had so far. :(

Bmkr,

According to Hitachi's web site: www.hitachi.us/tv/browse/accessories/plasma_tv_accessories/accessories_index.shtml

Stand Model
----------------

STF551 for 55HDS52, 55HDT52, and 55HDX62
TTS55 for 55HDT51
TTB55 for 55HDX61
CMPAD25 for 42HDM70


The first three are all power swivel stands.

Thank you Cooley, I do have the STF551 (according to the box) How come the pictures I have seen online the stand has an arch ? If I am wrong, at least it would be one less thing to be annoyed about.

The model I have is the 55HDT52. When I look at the brochure provided the stand is different. As is the image online.

I wouldn't give much weight to the brochure and online images. I called Hitachi before I made my purchase because I had a few questions about the stand(s). I remember the rep telling me that there had been a recent change in the designs of the stand. So it wouldn't surprise me if those images are just dated and haven't been changed.

From your photos, it looks like that is the correct stand for your TV.

Thanks that is comforting to know. Hopefully I can put it all behind me and maybe start enjoying the TV when all is said and done. :o

I've enjoyed my 42HDS52 plasma for the past few weeks and find the HD content exceptional and even the SD quality is nice. However, I've been disappointed with the DVD quality. Perhaps the HD picture is so "pure" that I am expecting too much. There is no "wow" factor on any DVD I play. I recently got the Oppo DVD player and hooked it up via HDMI input and am still not "wowed". People's Faces seem unclear, not sharp like watching a HD tv broadcast. Am I expecting too much or am I doinf something wrong? Thanks ahead of time.

My 42HDS52 was delivered yesterday, and since this is my first plasma TV, I have a couple of questions!

I'm coming from a Sony 34xbr910 CRT set, so I was wondering if I should break in to ensure proper life usage. Also, what settings would you recommend me to use?


I've noticed very little ghosting when I view SD programming with black side panels and 360 gaming, but it tends to disappear after a couple of minutes. IS this normal??

Last, must the fan always be on??? I tried some late night viewing and noticed the low hum of the TV. It has great ventilation, so I know that can't be the problem.


Any help would be greatly appreciated! Great TV.....I love it!

Kid A:

I'm new to this too, but I'll take a shot...

break-in and settings:
There's plenty of debate about whether or not this is necessary, but I figured it definitely can't hurt to be conservative on the settings for the first 100 hours, so I did so. I used contrast and brightness settings just below 50. I'd also recommend using the gray sidebars through the break-in and limiting use of black sidebars afterwards.

"ghosting":
What you describe sounds kinda like "image retention". I think this is somewhat common, but through normal use it should lessen. From my understanding, burn-in and image retention are different; the first being permanent and the latter being temporary. However, I think that too much image retention might serve well as an indication that you should alter your viewing (use a full screen setting, get rid of static images, game HUDs, black sidebars, etc.)

fan noise:
No help here. I haven't noticed any fan noise from my 55HDS52.

Congrats on your new TV!

Thanks for the help, cooley! I really appreciate it! I've search around the forums and have noticed a huge decrease in image retention by lowering contrast settings.

Now you have me worried.....my fan or a certain "noise" is always on. It's an obvious noise, so if you haven't noticed it by now, then your set is working without any problems.

Once again...thanks!

Thanks for the help, cooley! I really appreciate it! I've search around the forums and have noticed a huge decrease in image retention by lowering contrast settings.

Now you have me worried.....my fan or a certain "noise" is always on. It's an obvious noise, so if you haven't noticed it by now, then your set is working without any problems.

Once again...thanks!


I have the 42HDT52 and also have fan noise. AFAIK, it's normal for the fan to run while the set is on. However, mine continued to run after the set was turned off. I got around it by turning the power switch on the set off, but didn't like that option for long-term use.

Figured out that it was the TV Guide causing the fan to stay on. I disabled the TV Guide and now the fan goes off when the TV goes off. Simple fix and I don't mind not having TVG since my Dish receiver takes care of any program info I may need.

BTW, this set is amazing!

Just an update to my latest flicker test.

Using component (instead of S-Video) from my DVD player, the flicker seemed a bit less noticeable but was still there. :( On the upside though, I played around with other settings and at this point I feel confident that this problem is either (1) subsiding with further break-in of TV or (2) can be "tuned down" to a point where it is barely noticeable.

My feelings so far: I'm definitely keeping the TV. It has some quirks, but so do all the others. The flicker is my only gripe, but this only seems to happen in very dark DVD scenes where there is a small portion of the screen with a very bright light (example: LOTR, mines of Moria, after the entrance has collapsed, it's completely dark, and Gandalf lights his staff). I can live with that. :)

FYI...I just got a 55HDT52 to replace my 55HDT51 that had a non-fixable problem and I have noticed the same flicker issue. I never noticed this on the HDT51...I'm going to call Hitachi also to report the problem...maybe if enough of us call they'll do something about it.

Rich

Good point, Rich. I'll do the same. Even though the problem isn't serious enough for me to return the TV, I would love to have an explanation of what is going on. Curiosity.... :)

Any one else get the new directors series?

Good point, Rich. I'll do the same. Even though the problem isn't serious enough for me to return the TV, I would love to have an explanation of what is going on. Curiosity.... :)
Heres a theory I have about your problem. Just my opinion. Have you sat in a classroom with florescent light tubes? They will flicker at times and I'm sure they all do? And maybe no one has an idea how to make a florescent tube to stop from flickering? The've been in classrooms ever since I can remember and I sure engineers have tried to fix this. But your not staring at florescent tubes like you are with a television. So probably the only way to control this problem is to turn down contrast and brightness to reduce it from being aware of it. But I enjoy tv in torch mode so I believe you have to make a decision what you can live with IMO. But whats funny I've seen same model sets behave differently when it came to this, so maybe plasmas do this more intensely than another. If theres somebody could explain how a plasma works, isn't a plamsa a florescent or operates like a florescent? Just a thought and opinions.

Any one else get the new directors series?

Yes. I received my 55HDX62 "Director Series" on 12/6. This tv has been everything I would want.

Their have been comments made about the black levels not being as "good" as the Pioneer Elite 1130. That might be true but I believe the overall quality of the picture is as good if not better than the Elite series. I also saw both side by side and I personally liked the Hitachi "Director Series" better. All the reviews I have found regarding the "Director Series" have been positive but they are for the 61 series not the 62 series. I believe they just came out with the 62 series in Oct. of this year so that's probably why. If someone knows of a review done on the 62 series please let me know.

I have a 42" Panny plasma that I got earlier this year and it's definitely a very good plasma but the overall picture quality is not as good as the "Director Series " tv. Is it worth the extra price? I would say yes.

Yes. I received my 55HDX62 "Director Series" on 12/6. This tv has been everything I would want.

Their have been comments made about the black levels not being as "good" as the Pioneer Elite 1130. That might be true but I believe the overall quality of the picture is as good if not better than the Elite series. I also saw both side by side and I personally liked the Hitachi "Director Series" better. All the reviews I have found regarding the "Director Series" have been positive but they are for the 61 series not the 62 series. I believe they just came out with the 62 series in Oct. of this year so that's probably why. If someone knows of a review done on the 62 series please let me know.

I have a 42" Panny plasma that I got earlier this year and it's definitely a very good plasma but the overall picture quality is not as good as the "Director Series " tv. Is it worth the extra price? I would say yes.

My impression is that the poor black level comments have been targeted more on the 42" ALis sets. I don't recall hearing anything in this regard about the 55".

I don't have a Hitachi, but I am having the same flicker problems you all are with my Pioneer PDP4214HD. I was reading about your problems in this thread and it is exactly my trouble. I am done many steps to rid the flicker like you have, repeated DVD scenes I knew it would happen it, and it would always happen in the exact same way. I've tried turning off the orbiter. There isn't an option in my menu to turn off any black enhancer. I have noticed this with all inputs including OTA. It's beginning to aggravate me.

Of course Pioneer is oblivious to the problem and only refers you to local dealers like Hitachi does. :mad:

Well shoot. I just found the aspect setting in my dvd player which was set to 4:3. Changed it to 16:9 and no flicker. It also gives me more picture and is less letterboxed. It also got rid of a lot of misquito effects and green blotches on the screen. i couldn't tell a difference with progressive scan turned on or off, it was off. I am so relieved.

oldcband: Good points, I'm beginning to believe the same thing. After a lot of reading about this problem, I'm seeing many instances from many different displays (not just Hitachi). What makes it more confusing is that there is no standard terminology for this problem. We're calling it "flicker", but I've seen the same problem called "black level retention" problems, or "brightness retention" problems and I'm sure there are many more.

Oddly enough, as you mention, the brightness setting does seem to be the most effective in getting rid of it. However, turning the setting down seems to make it more noticeable, but raising it to 100% gets rid of it. Yuck! :(

What really confuses me is this: In a DVD scene where the flicker is really noticeable, I have found that if you press Info on the remote and get some bright white text on the screen, the flicker will be completely gone. This is regardless of ANY display settings. :confused: Now I'm sure there must be some scientific explanation for this, but I haven't found it yet :)


Heres a theory I have about your problem. Just my opinion. Have you sat in a classroom with florescent light tubes? They will flicker at times and I'm sure they all do? And maybe no one has an idea how to make a florescent tube to stop from flickering? The've been in classrooms ever since I can remember and I sure engineers have tried to fix this. But your not staring at florescent tubes like you are with a television. So probably the only way to control this problem is to turn down contrast and brightness to reduce it from being aware of it. But I enjoy tv in torch mode so I believe you have to make a decision what you can live with IMO. But whats funny I've seen same model sets behave differently when it came to this, so maybe plasmas do this more intensely than another. If theres somebody could explain how a plasma works, isn't a plamsa a florescent or operates like a florescent? Just a thought and opinions.

So I returned my Hitachi due to the "flicker effect" and horrible image retention issues and I picked up a sony set instead.

I must say the hitachi had a prettier picture and the features were a bit showy-er....however I love the sony.

It has crisp rich deep blacks, the sound is great, plenty of inputs and NO FLICKER EFFECT OR IMAGE RETENTION ISSUES! :)

Someday in the future I will try a plasma again...but not until all the kinks are worked out of it.

For everyone dealing with "flicker effect" issues, I suggest you call the manufactor and complain and if they do nothing, return your set! It is the only way they will learn.

On the plus side too, the hitachi was $3000....my new sony was only $1500 and I'm much happier with it compared to the hitachi.

I purchased an 55HDX62 on Tuesday and put it up on Thursday evening so my time with the set, so far, is limited. I have Dynamic Contrast Off, Black Enhancement Off, but in very dark scenes, for example many in Bram Stoker's Dracula, I do see the flip flop in black areas between a black and dark gray. It is too slow to be called a flicker, more a pumping of the black level, and you really to have to be watching for it to be bothersome.

I am going to call Hitachi about this to see what they say, but the set is overall so much better than every big plasma I have seen that I would not return it for this, unless it is a defect unique to the set.

I notice this effect on Sat HDMI in on both SD and HD broadcasts. I do not see this at all with the HD input through Firewire from my JVC DVHS VCR.

Also, my HDMI runs are 12' and I am having an audio dropout problem with a Samsung HD941 DVD player that is not present when run on another set with a 4' HDMI cable of the same manufacture.

Finally, will TVGOS work with an over the air DTV signal, or is it limited to cable input, which I do not have?

JHellow

JHellow: Congrats on your TV! I hold the same views; it's a minor gripe but it has grabbed my curiosity :)

Would you mind testing what I mentioned above in my response to oldcband's post? Find a good dark scene where the problem shows up, replay it over and over, and see if the problem is still there when bright white text is also present on the screen (like the display banner that comes up when you press 'info' on the Hitachi remote). Just curious.....

Thanks!

Although I might have some problems, like false contouring, on my 55HDT51, I'll wait until the next ("53"?) generation of plasmas comes out before requesting service.

I have a 3-year warrantee.

I might as well wait until I can get something that is an improvement rather than a step sideways or backwards if they swap out rather than find a fix for the 51 series.

Would someone mind PM'ing me to give me an idea of what Video Only has the HDS52 going for right now? Only place I can see online that has it is CC at about 5.5k?
thanks,
mike

VO has a Hitachi 55" in there online .pdf ad, does anyone know if it's the HDS52?

[EDIT]ww.videoonly.com[EDIT]

Seems like a good price compared to the CC price, just wondering if it's the same model?

Has anyone bought this from VO recently, would like to hear experience and if they also sell a stand, doesn't need to be powered though.
thanks,
mike

EDIT>>

mod note: no retail links. Especially ones showing sale prices. Thanks

It says dual HDMI in the ad.. my guess is HDT52.

but don't the T52 and S52 both have dual HDMI inputs? This is what I got from Hitachi's website?
any particular reason you think it's the T?

also, can anyone recommend a non-powered stand? I need a stand, but hope I can get one for less than the $299 motorized stand that is made for this model.

mikestan21: Yes, both have dual HDMI ports. I think the only difference between them is the HDT52 has the channel guide and the PC connection (fire-wire?).

Regarding the stand, I don't recall seeing any alternatives to the Hitachi brand. But I highly recommend getting the motorized stand. You will not be disappointed, it's a great way to conveniently get rid of any light reflections from the glass, not to mention the cool factor. :)

You do not want to be without the firewire input, and if the HDT is set up like the HDX, you get two of them, one at the back and one on the side with a USD port.

HD from DVHS is stunning on this set and there is no flicker or pumping of black levels on firewire that I can see. Also, while I have not tried this yet, you should be able to record in HD off of the over the air tuner and perhaps use TVGOS to program that recording.

JHellow

For the person asking about the model Video Only carries.

I just purchased a 55HDT52 at Video Only, plus the stand STF551.

They said that CC was carrying the 55HDS52 and it was a lesser quality TV. They also deliver and hook-up your set and DVD, cable, etc for free.

They said that CC was carrying the 55HDS52 and it was a lesser quality TV.

The only difference between those models is the Firewire Ports and the CineForm which is a design different regarding black plastic around the screen.

ALICIA,
I PM'd you about VO, can you send me a msg back plz. I'd like to know more about your overall experience with Video Only, and also if you had a problem getting the stand?

Everyone,
I was going to use the stand originally, but now that I see CC has a wall mount option for 1/2 of the stand, I'm leaning towards that? Anyone use it, it's the OmniMount I think?
-m

I would like to adjust the picture of my 42HDT52 to reduce the amount of overscan when viewing in the 4:3 zoom modes. Since I'm still forced to watch too much 4:3 material, I use the 4:3 Extended mode a lot. Unfortunately, a lot of information is being cut off the top and bottom of the frame, as well as the sides.

Is there any way to change how much the picture is being expanded?

Has anyone gotten into the service menu? I don't want to have to deal with customer service if I can help it.

thanks

At least on the 51 series, when you have the "zoom" options on screen (4:3, 16:9 etc), hit the left-right (maybe up-down too) curser keys to adjust. It shows in percentages, I believe.

I also second the stand. Our family room opens to the sunroom and with the door open glare can be a problem. I just hit the right curser (at least if a zoom is not on screen - I found out the hard way) and the plasma turns to the right a touch at each press. The glare becomes a non-issue this way.

At least on the 51 series, when you have the "zoom" options on screen (4:3, 16:9 etc), hit the left-right (maybe up-down too) curser keys to adjust. It shows in percentages, I believe.


on this one, you can only adjust up-down (unless I'm missing something), the l/r cursor drives the swivel stand.

I want to reduce the overall picture size since it seems like the proportions are fine, and the image is usually centered, but it's evenly over shooting the display frame. Up and down just makes me choose which part of the picture I want to see more or less of. If I can reduce the overscan, I can see all of the original image and fit it properly in the frame.

Does anyone know if there is a service mode for the 55HDT52? I'm not sure what, if anything, I would want to change...but I'd love to know what options exist.

Thanks

Rich

OK, folks. Post your TV settings! Thanks!! :)

BANDING ISSUES?

I'm about to pull the trigger on the 55HDT52, but am concerned about the banding issues discussed here?
Most of my viewing will either be DVD or HDTV, as we'll still watch SD tv on our Sony XBR40 CRT. With that being said, will the Hitachi be a good choice for DVD movies from an upconverting DVD player and HDTV channels?
Thanks,
Mike

BANDING ISSUES?

I'm about to pull the trigger on the 55HDT52, but am concerned about the banding issues discussed here?
Most of my viewing will either be DVD or HDTV, as we'll still watch SD tv on our Sony XBR40 CRT. With that being said, will the Hitachi be a good choice for DVD movies from an upconverting DVD player and HDTV channels?
Thanks,
Mike

I own last years 55HDT51 and the banding is poor however I have also seen one of the new 55HDS52 and I am glad to report it is much better to the point it shouldn't be a problem at normal viewing distances. The one downside is that they did not improve black levels and the blacks in a darkened room will look dark gray. I highly recommend using a back light to improve the apparent black level. Hitachi's have excellent PQ in all other respects. On a high contrast HD scene, the picture will look awesome, almost three dimensional.

mhfnet,
can I assume that the 55HDT52 will be the same PQ with improved banding as what you saw in the 55HDS52?
Thanks for the input, I feel better now, so it's just up to where I can get the best deal now?
-m

p.s. - Any recommendations for a good upconverting DVD player for this tv? I'm thinking about the Panny s77, Oppo, Toshiba?

I concur with mhfnet regarding HD content through this set; it is simply breathtaking IMO. :D

The "less than stellar blacks" issue was probably my biggest fear before I got the set home. But honestly, since then I really haven't noticed it. I assume this is most likely due to not having another display there to compare it against. I also favor the idea that the deep black bezel of the Hitachi's plays a large part in making the blacks seem more gray. I'm sure that some other brands have much deeper blacks than the Hitachi's, but I wonder if any of this difference is just an illusion created by a lighter colored bezel (silver instead of black)? Any thoughts?

So what upconverting DVD player do you guys recommend with the 55HDS52/T52? I was thinking the Panny s77 or the Oppo, but am now considering the LG 511, as it's $75 cheaper and uses the same chip with the same features especially the upconverting via HDMI which is what I'm looking for the most.
All thoughts are welcomed.
-m

mikestan21: I'm in the same boat and I've been looking closely at the Sony DVP-CX995V. Upconverting over HDMI and holds 400 discs. I'm gonna wait 'til after Christmas to make a decision though. Anyone using this player with these TVs?

I was looking at both sony HDMI players(single disc), but I read on that thread they both have a problem with shifting, not sure if this would apply to the 400 disc model though?

Cooley, any noticeable diff in the cabinet between your CC S model and the VO T model? The hitachi site says there's the firewire plus styling changes on the side panels? Just wondering what that may be?
Still haven't decided if I should save $ and buy @ VO, or pay more for peace of mind???

Wow, my first post after much lurking.
I just purchased the 42HDT52 after months of searching, researching, looking, etc. I had narrowed it down to this TV and the Toshiba .....X95. I chose this only because I got a better deal and I have til 10 days after Xmas to return(and switch out). I'm considering it. Also have 5 yr warranty.
First--I'm new to all of this-not even familiar with the terms. My TV was horrible out of the box. I tried the movie Aliens first-it was unwatchable because of a liquidy, fluid quality to everything. Almost like watching animation. I did some adjusting to contrast, etc. and nothing changed. I let it play for 20 minutes and it seemed to straighten out, then it would flare up again about every 15 minutes lasting a couple of minutes each time. Finally, it seemed to stop.

Next, I tried a Mary Tyler Moore DVD to check out a TV show on the Telly. Is it normal to feel a little dizzy whilst watching something like this on a widescreen? There were no flare ups like in Aliens-but it just seemed--odd. Is this something I will get used to?

Finally-hte HD cable box from Time Warner appeared. Terrible. Just the worst. Again, I made some adjustments and it did improve this time-but every time I switch stations it is liquidy for about 15 seconds before balancing out, and sometimes half or 3/4 of the screen is blocked out with a black square or rectangle. Should watching TV require so much work? Perhaps I'm doing something wrong and am unaware. Both the DVD and Cable box are connected with HDMI cables that cost about 100 each, the DVd player is an LG upconverting one-supposed to be good(it was fone with my old Tube TV which I'm beginning to miss.
I hate to sound so negative-it's just been pretty bad viewing for three days and I'm wondering if I should exchange for the Toshiba-which also has dual HDMI inputs. The Hitachi is beautiful to look at when it's working properly and particularly when it's off, and Hitachi sends notices about upgrading the TV as future technology arrives which I really like-makes me feel like I can constantly update when needed.
ANY replies would be appreciated. Oh and by the way--blacks on this TV are surprisingly good.
Thanks
kip

I purchased the HDF52 as a kind of "loaner" from my favorite AV store on November 22nd. I really wanted my plasma for my 360 and they were out of both the Hitachi 42HDT52 and Panasonic TH-42PX50U.

I know the HDF is the "low-end" of the Hitachi group but I must say I'm a little disturbed by what I would consider the Achilles heal of the glass itself. The ALis display seems like a great idea, but I notice significant dot-crawl on horizontal lines in both HD programming and especially on fixed pixel 360 games. On some of the Xbox Live Arcade games with 2D 720p backgrounds the dot-crawl is especially noticeable to the point of a full on flicker.

This months Sound & Vision reviewed the 42HDT2 and they mentioned a similar experience with 720p material. Since the HDF and HDT have very different circuitry I'm lead to believe the glass is the culprit for this flaw.

An occurrence I've noticed on the HDF is horrendously bad scaling of 480i/p signals. At first I thought my Xbox 360 DVD playback was really "that bad". But after putting the same disc in my Toshiba SD6200 I noticed the same thing. The screen seemingly has to "refresh" occasionally. I thought this was just poor 3:2 pulldown on the part of the 360 (something the HQV disc demonstrated in reviews of the DVD playback on 360), but this occurrences happens with any DVD player I try on the HDF.

The HDF was a "loaner" and is certainly going back, however I originally planned on trading up to the HDT, but with a couple of these issues seemingly to do with the ALis panels, I think I'm going to play it safe and go with the Panny.

Anyone else having these issues?

I was looking at both sony HDMI players(single disc), but I read on that thread they both have a problem with shifting, not sure if this would apply to the 400 disc model though?

Yeah I've been studying the thread on the CX995V. I know it has some issues but with 2 kids in the house, not having to worry about discs being lost, scratched, mishandled, put in the microwave :p, etc. sure is a strong selling point with me. :)


Cooley, any noticeable diff in the cabinet between your CC S model and the VO T model? The hitachi site says there's the firewire plus styling changes on the side panels? Just wondering what that may be?
Still haven't decided if I should save $ and buy @ VO, or pay more for peace of mind???

Sorry, not much help here. I know about the technical differences, but I've not actually seen a T model in person. Web pictures don't seem to reveal much either.

My TV was horrible out of the box. I tried the movie Aliens first-it was unwatchable because of a liquidy, fluid quality to everything. Almost like watching animation. I did some adjusting to contrast, etc. and nothing changed. I let it play for 20 minutes and it seemed to straighten out, then it would flare up again about every 15 minutes lasting a couple of minutes each time.

Sorry about your problems. :( I'm new to this too, but could you give some more details to that "liquidy" problem; I've never heard of that before. My initial newbie guess would be a connection/interferrence issue or a serious defect with the TV. Looking forward to hearing more about this...

Concerning dizziness or vertigo, I think this depends on (a) the person, and (b) the viewing distance. It's different for everyone and some folks don't experience it at all. Some folks experience it but get used to it. I am not one of those folks, however :) This is why viewing from a greater distance is more comfortable for me. Just experiment with different distances.

cooley

I've had my 42HDT2 for a couple weeks now and have not had any of the problems you've mentioned.

This set does an amazing job with DVDs. Been watching the first season of "House" the past several nights and have been stunned at how good it looks. Last night I even switched between the DVD and the HD broadcast on Fox. The difference was so slight. I'm using an average DVD player with no upconvert or progressive - just the set's scaler.

I've seen no dot-crawl on SD or HD material. HD programs look stunning, and SD looks better than I had expected. Some looks better than others, but I think that has more to do with how much compression is coming from the source (Dish). HD sources have been consistently fantastic - both Dish and OTA.

I have had some of the "black flicker" but it seems to be getting better. I haven't yet calibrated the set, but have gotten it to look really good to my eye.

The more time I spend with this set, the more I love it. At first, I had a little buyer's remorse wondering if I should have spent so much. But now, I can't believe I ever doubted it. I even wonder if I should've gone with the 55, but that would've been way too big for the WAF.

I've worked in HD production for almost 10 years, and this set is as good as I've seen. Definitely worth it...


I purchased the HDF52 as a kind of "loaner" from my favorite AV store on November 22nd. I really wanted my plasma for my 360 and they were out of both the Hitachi 42HDT52 and Panasonic TH-42PX50U.

I know the HDF is the "low-end" of the Hitachi group but I must say I'm a little disturbed by what I would consider the Achilles heal of the glass itself. The ALis display seems like a great idea, but I notice significant dot-crawl on horizontal lines in both HD programming and especially on fixed pixel 360 games. On some of the Xbox Live Arcade games with 2D 720p backgrounds the dot-crawl is especially noticeable to the point of a full on flicker.

This months Sound & Vision reviewed the 42HDT2 and they mentioned a similar experience with 720p material. Since the HDF and HDT have very different circuitry I'm lead to believe the glass is the culprit for this flaw.

An occurrence I've noticed on the HDF is horrendously bad scaling of 480i/p signals. At first I thought my Xbox 360 DVD playback was really "that bad". But after putting the same disc in my Toshiba SD6200 I noticed the same thing. The screen seemingly has to "refresh" occasionally. I thought this was just poor 3:2 pulldown on the part of the 360 (something the HQV disc demonstrated in reviews of the DVD playback on 360), but this occurrences happens with any DVD player I try on the HDF.

The HDF was a "loaner" and is certainly going back, however I originally planned on trading up to the HDT, but with a couple of these issues seemingly to do with the ALis panels, I think I'm going to play it safe and go with the Panny.

Anyone else having these issues?

Hi,

Been lurking on this thread and have decided to order a 55" director series.

I wanted to know what you guys are using to mount this 140lb monster??

I was thinking of the Sanus VMPL3 which looks like it might be able to span 3 studs.

Hopefully I can get my HTPC to play nicely with it.

And I promise to post pics when I get it on the wall.

Rich

Infocus 4805/MYTHTV

Has anyone who has contacted Hitachi regarding the Black Flicker issue had a technician come out and see the problem and give an explanation or fix the problem?

I brought home a 42HDT51 tonight -- last one in the store and got it for a steal. Since I was replacing a 53SWX12B, I thought I might miss the extra 11 inches and seriously considered a 50" LG set. After putting the 42HDT51 on the wall (using an OmniMount U3 Tilt), all doubt was gone -- the set looks great and 50" would most likely have been too big for the wall. I was happy with 3 year "old" 53SWX12B -- it has a great picture, but the RPTV box was just too much for the room - and it just seemed like I was pressing the Magic Focus button a little too often to "clean the picture up."

Now I don't how much of this is in my mind, but the picture on the plasma just blows me away. I haven't gone through and done any real calibration on the set yet, just eyeballed the HDTV and DVD settings. Blacks look a *little* light to me, but not too washed out or grey. Color is phenomenal - the kids, who have gotten quite used to HD, have even stopped in the their tracks and stared at the screen with the occasional "wow".

Now, for your opinions, please... Using the Motorola 6412 from Comcast, I switched from Component to DVI/HDMI and I can't really see a difference. Ditto switching from 1080i to 720p. Since I can't really tell the difference, I'd like to hear what modes/connections you guys are using and why.

Have any of you tried using any of the "1080i upconverting" DVD players on the market with this set? Any noticeable improvement over the standard 480p?

ancestralvoices- either your set or your head is rather effed up, but I would try replacing the set first...does what you're describing sound in any way normal ? You watch Mary Tyler Moore ?

other people...I've had my 42hdt52 for about 3 months, haven't seen flicker, tried to, but maybe not sure of what i'm looking for exactly...
"t" vs "s" ...you're not missing anything cosmetically by getting either. i slightly prefer the "t" but they're both quite handsome beasts.
My fan is inaudible when the tv's on from round the front of the set. Haven't spent enough time around the back to know if it's on all the time.
I'm using the 6200 cable box, didn't see any difference between component and dvi>hdmi except for a little less mess behind the set. Did notice a difference with DVD though, using an upconverting denon 1920 dvd player. Opening space battle in "revenge of the sith", more debris, smoke etc was visible over hdmi, however I couldn't see any difference switching between 720 and 1080 on the player, maybe between 480 and 720, but I might have been kidding myself...

Has anyone who has contacted Hitachi regarding the Black Flicker issue had a technician come out and see the problem and give an explanation or fix the problem?

No, I have not, but I will once my replacement set arrives if it still exhibits the problem. I have a different problem with my current set and Hitachi is in the process of replacing it. I figure its pointless to have a tech come look at it until the current issue is resolved.

Once I get the new display, if it still exhibits the problem, I will have a tech come look at it.

By the way, I talked to a supervisor at Hitachi last night concerning my current problem and I asked him if he was aware of the "black flicker" issue. I explained to him what was happening and he said that he was not aware of a known issue that would cause that. But he did continue on to say that a tech would have to look at it (per the point of your message).

Rich

COOLEY,

thanks for your response. The liquidy animation problem seems to be going away. In fact, I haven't seen it since my last post.

The black rectangles appear(on cable-Time Warner) only with the first station that comes on-then dissappear when I change stations.

I'm such an idiot when it comes to these things that I need to ask a 'probably' silly question: Do I set the cable box to 1080i or 720i? Or something else? Also, the upconverting DVD player? Do actors simply seem fatter on widescreen? Rhoda Morgenstern just seems huge-as does everyone on Curb Your Enthusiasm.
Also-the blacks are perfectly black unlike others who've posted on this thread.

Does the swivel sometimes move on it's own? This morning my TV had turned-though maybe it's possible that my cat stepped on the remote. and no, I'm not crazy or "effed" up to quote Asiparks.

ASIPARKS,
yes, I do watch Mary Tyler Moore---my tastes run the gamut--from High Tension to MTM to Platoon. and I'm a little jealous that you've had zero problems with your TV. I'll give mine another week. I'm hoping that there isn't interference from other things in the room such as an air purifier, computer, etc.


Kip

Congrats on your set danm! Haven't tried component vs. DVI/HDMI, but there is a huge difference between S-Video and HDMI :p For HD I'm using an H10 receiver from D* with an HDMI connection. I can't see any difference between 720p and 1080i either.


Now, for your opinions, please... Using the Motorola 6412 from Comcast, I switched from Component to DVI/HDMI and I can't really see a difference. Ditto switching from 1080i to 720p. Since I can't really tell the difference, I'd like to hear what modes/connections you guys are using and why.

ancestralvoices: I would try 720p or 1080i on both and go with the one that looks best. The "fat actor problem" you mention is probably due to the aspect you are viewing in. Press the Aspect button on your remote until you get to 4:3 mode. Your actors should be nice and slim now :P (but you'll have gray side bars)

My power swivel has never moved on it's own. If it's not the cat, I would strongly suspect paranormal activity and suggest having the room "cleansed" of restless spirits that are apparently enjoying your new TV while you are away. :eek: Seriously though, I have no clue about that one.

:D

cooley

Do I set the cable box to 1080i or 720i? Or something else? Also, the upconverting DVD player? Do actors simply seem fatter on widescreen? Rhoda Morgenstern just seems huge-as does everyone on Curb Your Enthusiasm.
Also-the blacks are perfectly black unlike others who've posted on this thread.

Does the swivel sometimes move on it's own?

Can anyone help me here? I have narrowed choice down to director's series 42hdx62 and pioneer pro-930hd, and am getting confused. Pioneer backordered (10), but hdx available now, at $500 discount. Looks to me like the hdx is a better picture, side by side, in store. I am new to plasma, but don't want to make a mistake at the $4-4500 level. Why the difference in availabilty?

Had a 42 inch S52A for 10 days. Coupled it with the Samsung upconverting HD850 DVD and a Scientific Atlanta 8300HD DVR from Cox cable. Using the HDMI cable supplied with the DVD player for the cable feed.

As a side note, ordered another HDMI cable from Pacific Cable but it arrived DOA. So, using componet for the DVD for now with a 480p signal.

I like the picture quality and Cox has a great HD package here in Arizona - actually a wee bit better than what they offered my area in Ohio (we just moved here in time to miss winter. Damn.) I like the aesthetics and the swivel is a neat idea.

Oh yeah. The best part? My M-I-L bought it!!! Gotta love the woman who appreciates HD.

I have had my 55hdt52 for about three weeks. I finally got my swivel stand today and this just makes the whole viewing experience that much better. I got my TV at American TV in Appleton, Wisconsin. They had a sale and I ended up paying only 4k and I got the swivel stand thrown in for free.

I had my sony dvd player hooked up via s-video and the picture was less than stellar. I swithced it over to component and I would have to say that the picture is excellent. I have experienced no "flicker" or "banding" issues whatsoever. Does anyone have a dvd player that uses hdmi and upconversion. I am weary about buying an upconverting dvd player because it sounds like marketing hype, though I could be wrong.

The only real HD programming that I am watching is from an over the air signal. The picture comes in great!

I also have a non-hd DTV receiver and I have to say the picture is less than stellar. I am using s-video for the connection, which could be the problem. Does anyone else have a non-hd DTV receiver hooked up via component. I was just wondering if switching from s-video to component would make a huge difference in the pq?

Ancestral- I was leaning towards your telly being buggered, I would return it, too much fishiness by far. The liquidy bits might be going away, but they may also come back bigger and badder, why chance it on such a big purchase ? Did you use the 2 little graphite cores that came with your TV ? I think they're supposed to help prevent interference being picked up by your input cables. In the meantime tape your cat to something so as to eliminate it as a possible cause.

Wow, have you guys and gals looked at the Panasonic boards? Not near as many disappointed buyers and problems...I guess they helps me make my decision…the Hatachi’s have more inputs/options, but in the end the “output”, the diplay is what I am going to watch.

Wow,

Thanks for that useful information. :rolleyes:

Wow, have you guys and gals looked at the Panasonic boards? Not near as many disappointed buyers and problems...I guess they helps me make my decision…the Hatachi’s have more inputs/options, but in the end the “output”, the diplay is what I am going to watch.

ASIPARKS(evey time I type your name I have to go back and edit out the extra S that my finger depresses).
Thanks for your response-and yes, when the HHGregg guys finished hooking everything up and left-I noticed those two little contraptions and had no clue what they were for-I actually thought one of the guys was wearing them.

The TV has moved again(and it's always to the left). My cat was kept upstairs today whilst I was "Holiday" shopping(must we be PC on our PC's?) so it wasn't her doing this time. I called the salesman at HHGregg and he said to give it a week to "work itself out". I'm not so sure I know what that means-but I am patient, and I think I can trust him--though he was incredibly near-sighted and I doubted his vision prowess. He wanted to sell me the Sony SXRB(?) which was very nice but not a plasma.

I'm sorry to complain so much and for being such a novice--this sight and many others is what led me to my decision. The upgrades being the biggest factor by far which, strangely, I never see mentioned in this thread.

Thanks you Asiparks and Cooley. I'll keep you informed.

Others visiting this thread---please note that it is MY Telly which is bad-the ones in the stores were fantastic--so please don't change your minds on the Hitachi because of one problematic consumer. Check out the Circuit City website and observe the RAVE reviews this TV has received from customers--and the style, HDMI inputs, etc that this Telly has compared to others. I must confess that I tend to have bad luck with electronics and Auto's. My toaster lasted 7 minutes, new car had some sort of bee colony in it, and I once bought a dishwasher that contained an odiferous dead mouse.

ASI---you are suggesting I trade it in for another Hitachi, right? Not another brand like the Toshiba HPX95 which I also liked but thought had an inferior style.
Have you noticed the RAVE reviews the Hitachi has gotten from customers at the Circuit City website?

Kip

Hey Asi and Cooley,

would you mind(no rush-only when you have the time) telling me your settings? Contrast, night or day, etc. and ASI--did you change yours after a certain time period? I really really don't want to return this TV--starting to love it the way I do the ugliest puppies in the litter. Feel sorry for it. Please let me know this information when you get a chance maybe after the Holidays.

Thanks and Good Tidings To You(and all of your friends...

Quick question for those with the Hitachi HDT52 and power swivel stand. I just had mine setup yesterday, and I did not notice until they left, that if you look at the Hitachi Plasma display from the side - the top tilts slightly downward.

In other words rather than being at a perfect 90 degree angle from the swivel stand, and standing dead upright, the plasma display tilts slightly forward from the top of the display.

Is this normal - could others who own this setup tell me if mine was installed correctly or whether i need to call them back?

Thanks.

-- Barr

Quick question for those with the Hitachi HDT52 and power swivel stand. I just had mine setup yesterday, and I did not notice until they left, that if you look at the Hitachi Plasma display from the side - the top tilts slightly downward.


Mine does that too, must be correct...

Mine too.

Mine does not.

I decided to use the THX optimizer in Alien to do settings. Except for blue settings(don't have the glasses) I set it to their specifications. looks beautiful right now--no liquidy animation, never had banding, no flicker, and-thanks to Cooley--Rhoda and Larry David don't appear overweight anymore.
Pretty happy right now.
Off to parents for Christmas Eve...

OK, so after about 4 weeks, I am returning my 42HDT51. The black levels/shades of black are very poor compared to my expectations, the blue'ish whites [on Skiing shows in InHD] have made me decide, its time to return this set. Circuit City has graciously accepted it back.

I have a 42PHD8UK/Panasonic on its way thru DTV City and lets hope that it does better with the Blacks. Or else, I will be fuming with all this plasma crap!

Minor 2 week report (42hds52).

I still hear a fan "noise" from the TV at ALL times. It's well ventiliated, so I don't know what else could cause this noise. I've read that some owners have no apparent noise at all, so this is worrying me.

I watched Madagascar the other night and noticed this slight sporadic flickering throughout the film. I'm using a Sony DVP-NS70H with HDMI, and I never noticed this until this movie.


Any advice or comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks a lot and happy holidays!

Minor 2 week report (42hds52).

I still hear a fan "noise" from the TV at ALL times. It's well ventiliated, so I don't know what else could cause this noise. I've read that some owners have no apparent noise at all, so this is worrying me.
...


I had the fan noise until I disabled the TV Guide feature. Now when the TV is turned off, so goes the fan.

The thing is, I don't have the option of disabling the TV Guide feature (assuming that it's done through Menu - Channel Manager). The Channel Manager option is greyed out, so I can't access it.

I just turned it on and the hum is even louder than ever, so this set is getting exchanged. :(

I just hope the local CC has them in stock next week.

I would like to wish Marry Christmas to all Hitachi plasma TV owners!

Hi everyone and Merry Christmas!

I'm new to this group but have been reading the posts because I'm a new owner of a Hitachi 55HDS52. I do have concerns about what I have read here (Black levels, flicker) but I'm not that far yet. I've recently mounted it to a wall using the Omni Mount U3 Tilt and noticed that no matter how tight I tighten the locking mechinisms, the TV will slowly tilt all the way down to the wall. Anyone else using this mount have this problem?

Thanks!

Sorry, I meant "Merry" Christmas :)

Hi Mvrl5!
I've mounted several plasma displays to a wall using ONLY Sanus tilt wall mounts (don't remember the model) and I've never seen your problem. I have to mention that all of them were 42-43 inches, not 55. My guess is that your Omni mount doesn't support the weight of a Hitachi 55" even though the specs may say so. Or it might be just a bad unit. Anyway, good luck with it.

dogday;
How did you disable the TV guide feature on your TV? I have a 42HDT52 and I couldn't figure it out ... yet:)
Thanks!

...
How did you disable the TV guide feature on your TV? I have a 42HDT52 and I couldn't figure it out ... yet:)
Thanks!

from someone else who told me:

First, while the TV Guide was still active I went into the TV Guide-specific "Panel Menu" (in the manual starting on page 55) and set the TV Guide to not show the guide on power-on. (I don't remember the exact menu setting.) From what I have heard from others this should prevent the TV Guide from bothering you again after you disable it.

To actually disable my TV Guide, I went into the regular TV Guide setup and changed my options as follows:
1. I set my zip code to 00000.
2. I answered No to "Do you have a cable box connected?" (Manuel page 50, screen 4)
3. I answered No to "Do you have an antenna connected?" (Manuel page 51, screen 12)
And that was it. Since that time I have heard absolutely nothing from the TV Guide and when I turn my set off, it goes completely off (and stays off).

Ancestral...you mean like "asiparksS" ..... :-P....
I meant return for another Hitachi. Unless there's something you like more. Your probs seem pretty unique, so that would set my alarm bells ringing.
Anyhow my settings were:
Contrast 45%
Brightness 48%
Color 46%
Tint: centered
Sharpness: 39%
Color Temp: Medium
Black Enhancement: high
Contrast Mode: Normal
Noise red: off
movie mode: on

Now they are:
Contrast 60%
Brightness 45%
Color 35%
Tint: centered
Sharpness: 30%
Color Temp: Medium
Black Enhancement: off
Contrast Mode: Normal
Noise red: off
movie mode: on

I still tweak my settings from time to time, right now I like the increased contrast. The black enhancement, erm, didn't. Just reduced shadow detail. So it's off now. And I reduced the color a touch too. BTW, don't forget the settings are not universal....

Not noticed any standular leanings when swivelling either to the left or right...

Merry .............(insert as appro ) to you all !

I'm considering purchasing a 55HDS52. I plan to tilt mount it on a wall between two french doors that have curtains hanging down the sides of the doors.

There is 54" of space between the curtains; therefore, about 3" of the tv would stick out in front of the curtains on both ends of the tv. The curtains stick out about 5" from th wall, but are flimsy, so the tv would probably push them back toward the wall a little. There will be plenty of open wall space for ventilation above and below the tv.

Can anyone tell me how hot this tv gets on the back side near the ends of the tv? Do you think mounting the tv like this will cause any problems (my wife doesn't want to remove the curtains.)

Thanks.

Has anyone had problems (distance) with using other remotes via the IR Blaster. Whenever I try to use other remotes via the Hitachi I have to be right up to the television for it to register. I have a 42HDT52.

I've recently mounted it to a wall using the Omni Mount U3 Tilt and noticed that no matter how tight I tighten the locking mechinisms, the TV will slowly tilt all the way down to the wall. Anyone else using this mount have this problem?

Thanks!

Same here. The top of the set slowly sags down until it is in the fully tilted position. To make things worse, I decided to tighten the handles a bit to solve the issue... The left handle held fine, the right handle snapped off!

The irony of the situation is that it no longer sags since the handle is a tooth-lock slip handle and it snapped on the near side of the gear in the fully tightened position. Now I can't adjust the tilt anymore.

Mind you, this is not a plastic piece. It is cast metal.

I just can't wait to see the blank stare from the CC service employees when I try to explain this one for an exchange.

Just picked-up a 42HDS52. Holy *(^& This is a beautiful display. I originally wanted Panny, but the bezel left a lot to be desired. I thought ofthe industrial models, but they were a lkttle bare bones. With the exception of a VGA, this set has it all. Not to mention that I got it as an open box @ CC with the recent open box coupon deal for a song. Yes, a song. Looking forward to playing with it. Thabks to all on this board for thier assistance, guidance, candid discussions and time.

I just purchased the 42HDT52. Everything is working fine except for inputs 3&4.
The colours are very off when I use component cables for these inputs with my dvd player. All I see are bright blues or purples. When I use composite to inputs 1 or 2, everthing works fine.
Has this happened to anyone else? Do you have any suggestions for me?
Thanks in advance.

I just purchased the 42HDT52. Everything is working fine except for inputs 3&4.
The colours are very off when I use component cables for these inputs with my dvd player. All I see are bright blues or purples. When I use composite to inputs 1 or 2, everthing works fine.
Has this happened to anyone else? Do you have any suggestions for me?
Thanks in advance.
You need to go into your DVD player menu and change your video output to Componet. It may say Y R B but the problem is your DVD setting needs to be adjusted.

You need to go into your DVD player menu and change your video output to Componet. It may say Y R B but the problem is your DVD setting needs to be adjusted.

Thanks for the quick reply oldcband. I did make that change in the DVD player menu settings. If I didn't, I would see no picture on inputs 3 or 4.
Any other ideas?

dvbnovice
I know its very possible to get a bad componet cable. I've had two of them out of five I've bought in the last couple years.

As_iparks,

thanks a bunch for the reply. It's funny, but my TV has improved greatly over the merry season. The liquid is gone, the black rectangles only appear on the first station that comes up on Cable--then dissappear once I change the channel, the PQ is great since I used the THX optimizer, colours are perfect, and the self swiveling has stopped. I'm going to try your settings tomorrow and have a look. I'm really happy with it right now--but lingering in the back of my mind are your words that the problems could come back bigger and badder...I still have nine days to ponder and, if I do switch out, 'twil be for another Hitachi. Would you make haste and exchange it right away?
I hate it when the Goose get's thin again.
Thanks again Asi!

Just learnt that you're English-hope you don't think I'm making fun--my Grandparents are from Derbyshire.

Guys

Im thinking of getting Hitachi

Problem is with regards to the ALSI 1024 x 1024 resolution, any problems and concerns especially when source is HD ( either 720p or 1080i) ?

Bec i heard of stretching of pixels when playing SD dvd 720 x 480

If i got the new upcoming PS3, wut it make a diff vs a panasonic/pioneer's resolution of 1280 x 720/ 1366 x 768 vs Hitachi's 1024 x 1024?

Also when connecting dvi connection on Radeon x800 pro , what resolution will it show? 1024 x 1024 or 1366 x 768? and how is the quality?

We ran out last night looking at Flat Panels to replace my 9 year old 50 CRT RPTV. I never impulse buy, I always shop till I drop and research but last night I just bought.
I looked at so many LCD and Plasmas I kind of lost track of specs and stuff and kind of went more for picture quality, price and cabinet ascetics (and I love Hitachi).

With a max of $2500. to spend (and that hurts) we ended up with a Hitachi 42HDF52 Plasma at $$$. (with a free Symphonic 27" TV and a great buy on a nice stand for $100.)

After returning home I jumped on to the net to see what I had bought, as my Flat Panel knowledge was next to nil save it were for what the sales guy told me. I now see this set is 1024x1024 which is a weird resolution for HD. The set look incredible with HD and DVD so picture wise I am not disappointed at all. The thing I did not realize till I opened it up was that this set is DVI and not HDMI.

I looked at so many and and the wife was getting restless so I completely did not notice this at the store. Should I worry? I have no DVI or HDMI equipment as of now and it has a built in HD tuner.

I guess I worry about HD-DVD that may be HDMI only. Will there be converters that will allow me to hook up to component or DVI?

I have 14 days to return this set if I want to. I do love how Hitachi they used their usual TV IR codes on this set so my Universal remote (Radio Shack 1994) works it and it turns on fast so macros switch works which I did not expect from a new set so that in itself is a big bonus.

So far after a few days I still love the HD, SD and DVD picture quality, next to nil on jaggies that other displays give. HD is as nice or sharper then my Panasonic PTL500 PJ in the theater down stairs. Pixels are so small I do not see them at out viewing distance unlike other Plasmas we looked at.
I do have a couple concerns,
1) This morning I had to rememorize the HD channels again for some reason.

2) How do you type in a digital channel with out having it switch to the NTSC tuner?

3) I got my Universal remote (radioshack 1994) to macro it to switch on for the s-vid for Satellite and Digital HD but cant for the life of me get it to switch to Component for the DVD player. Whish they had used direct inputs like on their CRT RPTV's.

Looks like most here bought the upper Ultravision models which I would love to have but just can't justify over $2500 on this purchase.

Please help me make the decision to keep this set, I can't go any more than $2500. and I want to keep as close to the 50" I'm replacing (42" is as small as I will go), and it has to be HD not ED!
Here is our Family Room it is for:http://www.prosteering.8k.com/photo4.html

Wes

EDIT>>

mod note: no price other than MSRP, please. Thanks

Just setup my 55HDS52 and when I switch to HD a little blue box with the word "stretch" appears for a moment. The screen apprears stretched with the big shoulders and little head look.

Any ideas folks??

Thanks :)

So, I am trying to watch DVDs and the picture jumps or jags up and to the left like a quarter inch like every five seconds and then back down 5 seconds later. I am pretty sure that this is some sort of pixel shifting, but it is driving me crazy. I cannot seem to determine how to turn this off. I am using Component from a sony progressive scan DVD player. Any ideas? It was a floor model, so it has been burned in and the pic is delicious. This little jagging though is irritating to say the least. Help!?

Update - Yep, this was a system function - screen move. I guess this is a great feature if you have the same image up for a long time, but hellaciously irritating when watching a movie.

The only other issue now is that there is the faintest blip or flicker that occures every couple of minites. 10 bucks says that none of my friends would ever notice it, but I do. Iread that changing the DVD settings may affect this and I am going to try that. I am also going to see what a sony HDMI can do to upgrade the picture. I am using component now and it is lush, but it never hurts to try another level.

Anyone using HDMI DVD on this model?
C

dogday;

Thanks for the TV guide tip. Now the fan goes off when the TV goes off... the way it should be:)

dvbnovice
I know its very possible to get a bad componet cable. I've had two of them out of five I've bought in the last couple years.

I've had the same problem with bad component cable. The sky in Jurassic park III (chapter 4) was orange.

from someone else who told me:

First, while the TV Guide was still active I went into the TV Guide-specific "Panel Menu" (in the manual starting on page 55) and set the TV Guide to not show the guide on power-on. (I don't remember the exact menu setting.) From what I have heard from others this should prevent the TV Guide from bothering you again after you disable it..

I take it this isn't possible for the 42hds52 because I can't find any option to access regarding a TV guide! :(

You're right, Kid A. The TV guide is one of the few extra features included in the 'HDT' models.

I take it this isn't possible for the 42hds52 because I can't find any option to access regarding a TV guide! :(

Just setup my 55HDS52 and when I switch to HD a little blue box with the word "stretch" appears for a moment. The screen apprears stretched with the big shoulders and little head look.

Congrats on your TV!! :) I have the same model but haven't seen the blue box that you mention.

The image stretching is due to the aspect ratio you're viewing in. Since it's a 'blue' box that your seeing, I suspect some kind of aspect setting in your HD receiver setup. Try changing to the different aspect settings: (1) press aspect button on Hitachi remote and/or (2) change a setting on your HD receiver. Just a guess...

For those folks using a 42" Hitachi plasma with the power swivel stand as opposed to a wall mount, a question: the manual for the HDS52 says (on page 5) to screw the stand down to the table it's sitting on. We don't have ours yet--a few days away--but I was wondering if this instruction is closer to:
(a) really essential
(b) probably a good idea or
(c) lawyer inspired caution that doesn't really make much difference in the real world.

For what it's worth, the Hitachi will have to share the living room with our attack cat. She's small, but energetic, and unpredicatble. That might make a difference in your recommendation.

Hmm.....well, since Los Angeles is looooong overdue for an earthquake, maybe I should follow directions and tie/screw/clamp the set to my stand.

I'd go with (c). ;)

As I live on the West coast also, I screwed it down, only took a few seconds.

I screwed mine down, too; both the 55 plasma and 32 lcd. The Hitachi rep said that when the set is swiveled it is not as stable on the stand so the screws are necessary.

For those folks using a 42" Hitachi plasma with the power swivel stand as opposed....

I've got the 55" and my guess would be (b) and (c). Unlike the West coast, the ground doesn't move much here in Kentucky :) I guess living in the middle-of-nowhere has it's advantages :D

Attaching the stand to your table/console/etc.: I view it as something that's probably a good idea to do, though I haven't yet.

Hey everyone,

Just bought a Hitachi 42" Plasma HDTV (42HDS52). Should be here tomorrow. Any advice about setup?

Looking forward to discussion.

Glad to be joining the Hitachi forum.

:)

OK, guys, eventually, my new 42PHD8UK arrived and the 42HDT51 was sent back. I must say that the following two reasons blows away the Hitachi by a long shot:

1) Blacks and Shadow Details - It is amazing, I can see so many more details on the 8UK while watching the same programs that I recorded on InHD channels.

2) Standard Definition Signals - The 3:2 Pulldown on the Panasonic is superior [far superior] than the Hitachi.

Overall, It was good to try the Hitachi as I know now for sure that Panasonic was worth the wait.

ankursingla,

I will admit that I had problems with my 42HDT52(yours was 51) when it first arrived. Odd problems. They are all gone now--not sure if it needed warming up, tweaking, a little TLC or what---but it's interesting because my blacks are truly black---that was never one of my original issues. I've watched all the Alien films, a few Star Wars, etc. and the screen is truly adeep black when it needs to be. My standard Def signals are great also--I'm rather thrilled with this TV at the moment. Maybe yours was just bad, or perhaps the 51 series is different.
Congads on your new Panasonic! Hope it works out for you.

Welcome to the club! My only suggestions would be, tune down those factory brightness and contrast settings for the first 100 hours (use something below 50). Also try to keep a fullscreen image (no sidebars) during this time as well. It's debateable whether or not this is necessary, but better safe than sorry I always say. :)

Have you got an HD feed? I like everything about this TV, but HD viewing is where it really shines IMO. I was/am very impressed with it.

cooley


Hey everyone,

Just bought a Hitachi 42" Plasma HDTV (42HDS52). Should be here tomorrow. Any advice about setup?

Looking forward to discussion.

Glad to be joining the Hitachi forum.

:)

Welcome to the club! My only suggestions would be, tune down those factory brightness and contrast settings for the first 100 hours (use something below 50). Also try to keep a fullscreen image (no sidebars) during this time as well. It's debateable whether or not this is necessary, but better safe than sorry I always say. :)

Have you got an HD feed? I like everything about this TV, but HD viewing is where it really shines IMO. I was/am very impressed with it.

cooley

Thanks for the advise.

I have the HD feed coming in next week. Can't wait. Only problem is I miss all the bowl games :( . Oh well, NFL Playoffs is coming so...

Do you or anyone else have a game console hooked up as well? Right now I have an Xbox and an Xbox 360 on order. Wondering if anyone has any info on gaming.

How is the SD (digital cable non-hd) signal on the 55" hitachi's?

I'm new to this technology but want to buy a plasma soon - tomorrow or within the next few days. I've narrowed it down to the Panasonic PX50U or the Hitachi 55 Hdt52? The price difference is about $650. I like the 55 inch screen, the all black color of the unit, the 2 HDMI inputs and the IEEE 1394 input but concerned about some of the negative comments on the Hitachi regarding black levels, flicker, etc. I can't afford to make a $4000 mistake. Anyone have experience comparing these units? Help would be appreciated.

concerned about some of the negative comments on the Hitachi regarding black levels, flicker, etc. I can't afford to make a $4000 mistake.
First I would suggest you take your time, don't jump so fast into it. I'm very familiar with this issue and do some reaserch on it. Do a search on black level changing, black shift, flicker effect, brightness changing, and many other names for it. Don't blame it on anyone manufactuer I've read at least one or more posts about this on every major manufactuers on this board. I believe you can get one that doesn't do it and maybe just how severe by a each individual display. Do some homework. Just some opinions I have on this issue.

Hello Hitachi enthusiasts.

I've bought my Hitachi 55hds52 and it's arriving early next week. I've bought a sanus wall mount and am starting to plan the mount over my fireplace (of course).

The question I'm asking is how are people wiring this display to their components. I will have a DVR with a component or HDMI output, and DVD player with probably a component output, and maybe a game system in the future.

Do people wire all of these things directly to the TV or do you use a component or hdmi switch? Logistically, it's easier to run a single HDMI cable behind the wall to the display and then use an external switch but it's cheaper to run everything behind the wall to the display.

Any ideas and techniques would be greatly appreciated.

Devan

How is the SD (digital cable non-hd) signal on the 55" hitachi's?

I think the SD is good...its very watchable in my mind. Much better than the 61" Sony RPTV my plasma replaced.

Rich

I'm new to this technology but want to buy a plasma soon - tomorrow or within the next few days. I've narrowed it down to the Panasonic PX50U or the Hitachi 55 Hdt52? The price difference is about $650. I like the 55 inch screen, the all black color of the unit, the 2 HDMI inputs and the IEEE 1394 input but concerned about some of the negative comments on the Hitachi regarding black levels, flicker, etc. I can't afford to make a $4000 mistake. Anyone have experience comparing these units? Help would be appreciated.

I would seriously recommend that you first get the Hitachi because 5" inches at $600 is worth it. If it meets your needs, then keep it or else exchange it for the Panasonic.

Try to get a set from Circuit City and the let them leave the unit at home. Look closely to ensure that the delivery process did not lead to one or more small dings on the base. If yes, note it down on the delivery sheet and call them to say that you will try the unit and if your dont like it, you will return. This will prevent you from 15% restocking fee. Try it, like it, keep it. Or else, just return or exchange for the Panasonic.



--Ankur

Hello Hitachi enthusiasts.

I've bought my Hitachi 55hds52 and it's arriving early next week. I've bought a sanus wall mount and am starting to plan the mount over my fireplace (of course).

The question I'm asking is how are people wiring this display to their components. I will have a DVR with a component or HDMI output, and DVD player with probably a component output, and maybe a game system in the future.

Do people wire all of these things directly to the TV or do you use a component or hdmi switch? Logistically, it's easier to run a single HDMI cable behind the wall to the display and then use an external switch but it's cheaper to run everything behind the wall to the display.

Any ideas and techniques would be greatly appreciated.

Devan


You will love the hds52. Here's my suggestion: Spring for a new DVD with HDMI (I went for the Sony which upconverts to 1080) then all you'll have are 2 HDMI's to run. Then optical audios or coax from each device to the receiver. The advantage here is the variable wife factor. My wife can't figure out anything therefore all she has to do is turn on the TV and she gets sound without having to turn on the HT setup. I on the other hand never listen to the TV speakers. Aside from the gorgous pix you'll get from the Hitachi, the dual HDMI is great. Whereas the back of my RPT Pioneer looks like a NASA control board, I now only have 2 cable that I had to bury from the Hitachi. Hope this helps.

I would seriously recommend that you first get the Hitachi because 5" inches at $600 is worth it. If it meets your needs, then keep it or else exchange it for the Panasonic.

Try to get a set from Circuit City and the let them leave the unit at home. Look closely to ensure that the delivery process did not lead to one or more small dings on the base. If yes, note it down on the delivery sheet and call them to say that you will try the unit and if your dont like it, you will return. This will prevent you from 15% restocking fee. Try it, like it, keep it. Or else, just return or exchange for the Panasonic.



--Ankur

If CC delivers the unit without damaging it, will I be charged a 15% restocking fee if the unit is returned or exchanged later?

...I went to local CC and compare the two competing TVs. They were showing some football game and I must say the Panny's green color looked better than Hitachi's. I tried tweaking the colors using the remote but I could not do very well. Could it be that the Panny was caliberated and Hitachi was not?

Any good store in NJ that carry Hitachi 52HDS/T52 and Panny 42PX500 that I can compare them side by side. I would prefer T over S in Hitachi.

Oh and BTW, I compare Pioneer 4361 with others in BB, I must say it was the best!

First I would suggest you take your time, don't jump so fast into it. I'm very familiar with this issue and do some reaserch on it. Do a search on black level changing, black shift, flicker effect, brightness changing, and many other names for it. Don't blame it on anyone manufactuer I've read at least one or more posts about this on every major manufactuers on this board. I believe you can get one that doesn't do it and maybe just how severe by a each individual display. Do some homework. Just some opinions I have on this issue.


Judging from the number of "negative comments" between the Panny and the Hitachi forums on this site, the Hitachi has more issues with black levels and flicker.

In my case, the TV will be in room that is 21x18, with the viewing distances being from primarily 16 and 11 feet. From this distance I thought the 55" unit would be better, but I don't want to be disappointed with the PQ. Any additional advice based on your experience?
n

You will love the hds52. Here's my suggestion: Spring for a new DVD with HDMI (I went for the Sony which upconverts to 1080) then all you'll have are 2 HDMI's to run. Then optical audios or coax from each device to the receiver. The advantage here is the variable wife factor. My wife can't figure out anything therefore all she has to do is turn on the TV and she gets sound without having to turn on the HT setup. I on the other hand never listen to the TV speakers. Aside from the gorgous pix you'll get from the Hitachi, the dual HDMI is great. Whereas the back of my RPT Pioneer looks like a NASA control board, I now only have 2 cable that I had to bury from the Hitachi. Hope this helps.

Thanks for the reply. The WAF is a very good point. I don't think I'll be able to have her figure out a separate switch on top of the TV. The other good thing is if I run 2 HDMI from the TV to the components, and then decide I want to add another item such as a Blu-Ray/HD DVD or a PS3, I can then buy a switch and use one of the exisitng HDMI cables.

Are you broadcasting digital sound to the Hitachi via HDMI or did you run a separate cable?

Devan

Do you or anyone else have a game console hooked up as well? Right now I have an Xbox and an Xbox 360 on order. Wondering if anyone has any info on gaming.

I have a PS2 (slim version) hooked up via component and over the Christmas holiday my brother brought his XboX 360 (also via component). The PS2 looks much better than I expected - nice crisp images, not muddy or blurry looking. We played Project Gotham and King Kong on the XboX360. Both were visually stunning. The graphics in KK were especially breathtaking. I saw no signs of image retention either. I think you'll be quite pleased with gaming on this set :)

How is the SD (digital cable non-hd) signal on the 55" hitachi's?

I'll second what RichardJMartin said: very watchable. My SD and HD feeds are from D* using an HDMI connection. I was expecting the worst from SD, but I was pleasantly surprised actually.

I'm thinking about gettig the Director's series, since I have a large bay window directly behind the couch opposite where I will mount the TV. It seems like an expensive upgrade, but I get a lot of glare on my Sony 32" direct view CRT. I don't need the guide, but I can't remeber if the "mini-remote" or any other upgrades are exclusive to the Director's series. I was about to give up on plasma due to the glare & burn-in. I watch a lot of 4:3, and hate to stretch, but I would for a 100 hour break-in.

My couch will put my head about 11.0-11.5 feet from the screen, and my other couch will be about 7.5-8 feet (laying down like a bum, of course). What are your viewing distances? Am I too close?

Will I be screwed when 1080p PS3 stuff is out?

Thanks

Dan

I'll second what RichardJMartin said: very watchable. My SD and HD feeds are from D* using an HDMI connection. I was expecting the worst from SD, but I was pleasantly surprised actually.

Sounds kinda like my situation: living room with lots of windows. I want to do a wall mount someday in the far future, but for now I'm using the power swivel stand. There really can't be enough said about the might of the power swivel stand in rooms where glare/reflections from multiple light sources is a problem. For tuning out those reflections, it works like a charm.

Not sure, but I think the mini-remote is exclusive to the director's series.

My viewing distances are anywhere from 6 to 20 feet and it looks great from anywhere. My personal preference is around 15ft. Your distances will be ideal.

I'm anxiously awaiting the PS3 as well (never been much of an Xbox fan). Not sure what you mean by screwed though. As long as it looks as good as the Xbox360 (I witnessed a few 360 titles on my TV over the holiday), I think we'll be very pleased :)

cooley

I'm thinking about gettig the Director's series, since I have a large bay window directly behind the couch opposite where I will mount the TV. It seems like an expensive upgrade, but I get a lot of glare on my Sony 32" direct view CRT. I don't need the guide, but I can't remeber if the "mini-remote" or any other upgrades are exclusive to the Director's series. I was about to give up on plasma due to the glare & burn-in. I watch a lot of 4:3, and hate to stretch, but I would for a 100 hour break-in.

My couch will put my head about 11.0-11.5 feet from the screen, and my other couch will be about 7.5-8 feet (laying down like a bum, of course). What are your viewing distances? Am I too close?

Will I be screwed when 1080p PS3 stuff is out?

Thanks

Dan

I second the use of the swivel stand in tuning out glare and reflections.

dvbnovice- I'd wager inputs 3 and 4 are not component, they're composite, ie rather than all 3 sockets being for video connection, the top hole is for a video cable, the 2 below are L & R audio....

Those of you with a Hitachi set-- how warm does your "control box" get? My screen is fairly warm, not too bad really. But the box in the component rack gets *hot* - almost too hot to touch! The internal fan in the unit sounds like it's working - I can definitely hear it spinning. I have it sitting on a shelf by itself with a good 6" of clearance above it. I drilled a couple of extra 2" holes in the back of the rack for more airflow to no avail. The other components in the rack (of which two are DVRs which tend to get quite warm when stacked) are all maintaining a comfortable temperature.

6th Ave has the director series and you can get it for maybe ~$600-$700 more than the HDS if you feel like haggling a bit.

I am getting my directors series on Tuesday...can't wait!

Anyone get a HTPC hooked up yet?? I run MythTV on my projector and want to do the same on the Hitachi.

Rich




...I went to local CC and compare the two competing TVs. They were showing some football game and I must say the Panny's green color looked better than Hitachi's. I tried tweaking the colors using the remote but I could not do very well. Could it be that the Panny was caliberated and Hitachi was not?

Any good store in NJ that carry Hitachi 52HDS/T52 and Panny 42PX500 that I can compare them side by side. I would prefer T over S in Hitachi.

Oh and BTW, I compare Pioneer 4361 with others in BB, I must say it was the best!

Hi I just purchased the 42hdt51 and will take delivery Monday. How much better is the 42hdt52. I personally like the the 51's cabinet and the external media box. Does anyone know why they did away with the media box on the 52's.

I meant that if the PS3 is 1080p, I'd be screwed if the Hitachi wouldn't display it...

So 8-11.5 feet wouldn't be too close as to see the screen door or whatever? I'm getting closer on deciding, with this panel as a top contender -



My viewing distances are anywhere from 6 to 20 feet and it looks great from anywhere. My personal preference is around 15ft. Your distances will be ideal.

I'm anxiously awaiting the PS3 as well (never been much of an Xbox fan). Not sure what you mean by screwed though. As long as it looks as good as the Xbox360 (I witnessed a few 360 titles on my TV over the holiday), I think we'll be very pleased :)

cooley

Those of you with a Hitachi set-- how warm does your "control box" get? My screen is fairly warm, not too bad really. But the box in the component rack gets *hot* - almost too hot to touch! The internal fan in the unit sounds like it's working - I can definitely hear it spinning. I have it sitting on a shelf by itself with a good 6" of clearance above it. I drilled a couple of extra 2" holes in the back of the rack for more airflow to no avail. The other components in the rack (of which two are DVRs which tend to get quite warm when stacked) are all maintaining a comfortable temperature.
what model do you have? The new 42" does not use a seperate control box

You will love the hds52. Here's my suggestion: Spring for a new DVD with HDMI (I went for the Sony which upconverts to 1080) then all you'll have are 2 HDMI's to run. Then optical audios or coax from each device to the receiver. The advantage here is the variable wife factor. My wife can't figure out anything therefore all she has to do is turn on the TV and she gets sound without having to turn on the HT setup. I on the other hand never listen to the TV speakers. Aside from the gorgous pix you'll get from the Hitachi, the dual HDMI is great. Whereas the back of my RPT Pioneer looks like a NASA control board, I now only have 2 cable that I had to bury from the Hitachi. Hope this helps.

What model sony did you get ?

You will love the hds52. Here's my suggestion: Spring for a new DVD with HDMI (I went for the Sony which upconverts to 1080) then all you'll have are 2 HDMI's to run. Then optical audios or coax from each device to the receiver. The advantage here is the variable wife factor. My wife can't figure out anything therefore all she has to do is turn on the TV and she gets sound without having to turn on the HT setup. I on the other hand never listen to the TV speakers. Aside from the gorgous pix you'll get from the Hitachi, the dual HDMI is great. Whereas the back of my RPT Pioneer looks like a NASA control board, I now only have 2 cable that I had to bury from the Hitachi. Hope this helps.

Froll,

I have another question for you. Since you are providing HD video signal via HDMI to the Hitachi, and then decoding audio separately through your receiver, do you ever get any lip-sync errors?

I'm looking to buy a Yamaha 657 receiver vs the Marantz sr7500 and I was deciding if I need the lip-sync correction features.

Devan

This is probably a dumb question/statement but...

I just got my Hitachi 42", the 42HDS52 model. I won't get my HD cable box from comcast until later this week. Couldn't wait to set it up until then...of course. The picture looks much better than I thought it would. I'm only using gold plated RCA's, for the TV and DVD (old setup wires). Still, looks really good, pretty impressed. I have the HDMI cable already just waiting for the box and tomorrow I'm going to get the Component wires for the DVD player and gaming system.

Few things I noticed...

1. When watching a DVD I had a black flicker, not all the time but sometimes, when watching the movie. Not in the movie picture itself but above and below the picture (widescreen). Is this something that will clear up when using Component wires? Read a few things in this forum about the flicker but there was no real response on if it was still happening, if it went away, or what cables were being used, etc..

2. When watching a DVD there was a haze to the background walls and on the face of the actors, some shots not all shots. Wondering if this will clear up with Component wires as well?

3. When watching cable the White level wasn't so bright, again not all the time but sometimes. Like at the end of a car commercial (there are so freaking many) when the whole screen is white and there's just a little bit of black text. It looked kind of grey not a bright white. Is this something that will clear up with the HDMI cable/HD cable box?

On all issues I'm assuming that the with the wires I'm using right now, gold plated RCA's, that the tv's picture isn't being used to it's full potential. Or at least I'm hoping so.

As far as the black levels, I think they're awesome. I'm sure it'll be even better with the correct wires. :D

Thanks in advance for your response.

1. When watching a DVD I had a black flicker, not all the time but sometimes, when watching the movie. Not in the movie picture itself but above and below the picture (widescreen).


My Pioneer did the same thing until I went into the setup of the DVD player and changed the aspect from 4:3 to 16:9. Check your DVD player to see if it's still set for your older tv 4:3. It took much frustration and missing hair before I figured this out.

I don't have any lip sync problems w/ DVD (using Sony NS70H) but I do from time to time have sync issues w/ Comcast (Phase III 6212). But those sync issues, when they occur, happen regardless of whether I'm listening to sound through the internal speakers using HDMI or through the receiver via optical audio. I believe from reading other posts that it is a Comcast issue. Hope that helps

I don't have any lip sync problems w/ DVD (using Sony NS70H) but I do from time to time have sync issues w/ Comcast (Phase III 6212). But those sync issues, when they occur, happen regardless of whether I'm listening to sound through the internal speakers using HDMI or through the receiver via optical audio. I believe from reading other posts that it is a Comcast issue. Hope that helps
Hi to everyone. Just joined the forum. I's good to find a place to be able to get the correct information, thanks always for any input.
I recently purchased 42HDX62 ( build date November 05 ). Am ( ancient ) novice when related to HT. I am having lip sync problems also, one reason I am delighted I found this forum. Right now I have everything connected through component connections ( still trying to learn the best connections for the whole system , some new some old, to get the ultimate capable performance ) Have not noticed any DVD lip sync problems :-) but broadcast TV has the problem to different degrees. :( Sometimes less noticable than others and sometimes no problems. Routing signal through Time Warner DVR box. Is this a problem with the cable box ???? Jeez this is frustrating as heck and before I freak out and contact Hitachi I wanted to see what help I can find from you all. I don't have a lot of confidence in the seller/installer. When they were installing the whole system, and I'm trying to understand everything, I ask the installer ( the brother-in-law ) does he use AVIA or some other set up tweaking system his response was, " everyone I know that has used that says it is no good and they throw it in the trash". Holy S--- , I'm in trouble and I just wasted $300 for the install and set up, pounds through my head.

I meant that if the PS3 is 1080p, I'd be screwed if the Hitachi wouldn't display it...

Whoa! Yeah we would be screwed! Is it a serious possibility that the PS3 will be 1080p only? Or are you just concerned that you'll buy a TV now that won't be able to display the full potential of the PS3?

If the latter is the case, it won't be an issue for me. Hell, I just started using a component PS2 connection last week :) I'll be able to live with 720p or 1080i from a gaming console for a long time.

This is probably a dumb question/statement but...


I think it's safe to say that once you upgrade your composite connections, you'll see a huge improvement and probably even solve most of the issues your seeing now. I recently upgraded my PS2 connection to component and was blown away by the difference in color, sharpness, and detail. Also noticed big DVD improvements using component instead of composite.

Just hang in there until you upgrade those connections :)

I've gotten rid of my old audio system and I'm in the process of upgrading, so for the time being I'm not using anything but the internal TV speakers (model 55HDS52).

Anyone else using the TV speakers only?
If so, what audio settings are you using?

Thanks!

Cooley:

Are you still getting the black flicker in dark scenes? I am with the 55HDX 62 and it is bothersome. I like everything else about the set. I am calling Hitachi tomorrow to see what I can find out about this.

JHellow

Cooley:
Are you still getting the black flicker in dark scenes? I am with the 55HDX 62 and it is bothersome. I like everything else about the set. I am calling Hitachi tomorrow to see what I can find out about this.


Yes, but it's not as bothersome now. I have a few theories on the reason; (a) it's diminishing on it's own (b) tweaking the settings has made it less noticeable (c) I'm just getting used to it. In truth, it's probably a combination of all three.

I believe that I've done all that I can to lessen the issue with my current equipment. I see it more with DVDs than anything else and I'm using an old player currently. Once I upgrade my player, I will get a little more serious about finding out where the problem is. I haven't been so gung-ho about finding a cure for this issue since all the reading of examples with almost every major brand having some issues with "flicker" / "black level retention" / "brightness retention" etc.

So I'm content for now, but I will call Hitachi after my DVD player upgrade if there is no improvement. I would still love to have a good technical explanation as to what exactly is happening. Let us know how your call to Hitachi goes.

cooley

Cooley,

I purchased a 42hdt52 on saturday and exchanged it today due to the occurance of dark scene flicker. I haven't been exposed to many plasmas in a home theatre environment so I'm not sure if they all behave this way.

There's a new unit waiting for me to see if it's a problem across the Hitachi line; if it is the set's going back and I'm off to try a different brand.

Whether it's this retention issue or the dynamic controls never quite turning off I'd really like to know.

Cheers

Whether it's this retention issue or the dynamic controls never quite turning off I'd really like to know.

Same here. In my opinion, this issue is the only thing keeping the set from being perfect. Keep us informed on your experiences with the replacement TV.

I'll definitely keep you posted once I get home to run it through it's paces.

I agree with you regarding the set, apart from the "flicker", it's gorgeous, the image is stunning, and the features can't be beat.

Cooley,

Set up the second 42hdt52 last night. The abundance of dark scenes in Charlie and the chocolate factory sent it into black level Tourette's. I'm going to continue breaking the set in for a couple more days, but it looks as if it's going back.

It's sad as it's such a nice panel.

Same here. In my opinion, this issue is the only thing keeping the set from being perfect. Keep us informed on your experiences with the replacement TV.

Have been playing with my 55HDS for about four weeks now and agree that this is only thing keeping it from perfect. The issue only really bothers me in very dark scenes and is much more noticeable to me when room is dark. Agree wih all previous recommendations to turn off dynamic contrast and black enhancement.

I've set up my Night settings specifically to mitigate flicker problem. While flicker is not completely eliminated, it is only present in the most extreme dark scenes and is still liveable. Do sacrifice some contrast, but for me, eyes adjust quickly and not getting frustrated with flicker is worth it.

Contrast 46
Bright 54
color 45
tint 3 to red
sharp 62
color temp medium
black enh. off
dyn. contr. normal
noise off

I'm currently running very low contrast and brightness for break in purposes, probably making the problem worse...whichever way we cut it though, it's still there.

Have any of you experienced this problem with other plasmas as well? Is it a problem that's common to the technology?

I'm currently running very low contrast and brightness for break in purposes, probably making the problem worse...whichever way we cut it though, it's still there.

Have any of you experienced this problem with other plasmas as well? Is it a problem that's common to the technology?
IMO yes it is a plasma problem. I keep writing about it on this forum and I've asked myself why do I continue to write about, because I no longer own a plasma. For one reason it caused me a lot of stress. Also because I think when you purchase a tv be it LCD flat panel or plasma you should be a informed consumer. Now plasma guru's have told me that its just a few in the minority that complain about this or see it. I believe that it is from display to display how bad it might be. And there's alot of names for it and I see you added the "tourette" one. Black shift, black level changing, black level retention, flicker, and probably the most accurate one is dc restoration. Do a forum search and type in one of these names and theres alot written about it. Also some members say they can live with it, I couldn't it was to annoying for me. I'm sure that all technologies aren't perfect but LCD fits me better, and I'm sure we can find something wrong with it too. Its not a perfect world.

I couldn't it was to annoying for me. I'm sure that all technologies aren't perfect but LCD fits me better, and I'm sure we can find something wrong with it too. Its not a perfect world.

I have to agree, I can't tolerate it either.

It's not a perfect world, but that particular trait is just too much to compromise on as it's glaring.

May I ask what plasma set you owned prior to your lcd? And what lcd you own now?

Miccos,
I had a 50 inch Onyx Panny and now I own a Sharp lc-37d5u.

Cooley,

Set up the second 42hdt52 last night. The abundance of dark scenes in Charlie and the chocolate factory sent it into black level Tourette's. I'm going to continue breaking the set in for a couple more days, but it looks as if it's going back.

It's sad as it's such a nice panel.


Man reading these posts about the black flicker is definately dishearting. I really like this TV but I feel the same way. When the HD box comes in and the new cables are hooked up, if this thing still is having the black flicker issue it may be going back. :(

Keep you posted.

P.S. Has anyone contacted Hitachi about the issue?

Rooster - I was trying to get my set to do the black flicker thing, so i copied your settings on my 42hdt52 and watched some bits of Aliens and -lo- in the begining sequence when they open up the ship and find Ripley, the near black background shifted rapidly to a gray, then to black, back to gray as other objects of varying intensity appered onscreen. it was very faint and i drove my missus up the wall watching it over and over to see if it was really there. Went back to my old settings where contrast>brightness and it wasn't detectable. Went back and played some more and noticed that whenever i had the brightness value set a chunk above that of the contrast, the flicker became faintly noticable. Now as a disclaimer, the effect of changing my brightness control doesn't seem to work very fluidly. There is very little difference between 0-34 then at 35 it does a little brightness "jump", changes marginally between 35 and about 63ish then it does another big gain "jump", then little change between that and 100. Anybody experience this ?

Hi all,

Just got my 55HDX62 delivered...sitting there in the bottom half of the foam/box waiting for me to mount it so it can rise to glory ;-)

I am using a Sanus VMPL3 mount and have been getting conflicting info from Sanus and Hitachi on which mounting screws on the plasma to use.

I see 3 ...the top ones on each side have the thumb screws in them and all three have arrows point to them.

It seems that if i used the top and bottom(Skipping the middle) that the mount would be pretty much vertically centered which is what Sanus recommended so that the tilting function works properly. (I would have to use the included extension brackets for this)

Hitachi on the other seesm to think there are 4 screws on each side (I only see 3) and that I shoudl use the top 2.

Can anyone that has mounted one of these tell me what screws they used....thanx!

Hi. I'm a newbie with a Hitachi HDS52. I had some questions on how to setup my digital sources (satellite and DVD).

A Hitachi tech wrote me today that an output setting of 720 would give better PQ on this set since it is closer to the set's native resolution of 1366x768. Do you all agree? I had been setting my satellite and DVD output at 1080.

What are they talking about then when Hitachi refers to the Virtual HD 1080P II processor?

Hi all,

Just got my 55HDX62 delivered...sitting there in the bottom half of the foam/box waiting for me to mount it so it can rise to glory ;-)

I am using a Sanus VMPL3 mount and have been getting conflicting info from Sanus and Hitachi on which mounting screws on the plasma to use.

I see 3 ...the top ones on each side have the thumb screws in them and all three have arrows point to them.

It seems that if i used the top and bottom(Skipping the middle) that the mount would be pretty much vertically centered which is what Sanus recommended so that the tilting function works properly. (I would have to use the included extension brackets for this)

Hitachi on the other seesm to think there are 4 screws on each side (I only see 3) and that I shoudl use the top 2.

Can anyone that has mounted one of these tell me what screws they used....thanx!


Rich:

Use the top and bottom set with the Sanus. I have the Sanus tilt mount and am not that happy with it, but it is up and I am not going to remount at this point. If I was to do this over again, I would want a mount that tilts and articulates away from the wall so that I could get better access to the input area of the set.

Letme know if you see the black flicker. We have the same set.


JHellow

Thanks for the info....and by top you do mean where the thumb screws were, right?

So is it impossible to get to the input connections once mounted or does it require the psychic ability to see where the cable is plugging into?

I am aware of the black flicker issues and will report on it.

I will probably wind up using cablecard for comcast HD and will try to gte my HTPC hooked up DVI->HDMI not sure on what resoltuion to output...probably 720P since it looks like it wont take a one-to-one pixel map at the native resolution.
(But I will try!)

Rich




Rich:

Use the top and bottom set with the Sanus. I have the Sanus tilt mount and am not that happy with it, but it is up and I am not going to remount at this point. If I was to do this over again, I would want a mount that tilts and articulates away from the wall so that I could get better access to the input area of the set.

Letme know if you see the black flicker. We have the same set.


JHellow

My Pioneer did the same thing until I went into the setup of the DVD player and changed the aspect from 4:3 to 16:9. Check your DVD player to see if it's still set for your older tv 4:3. It took much frustration and missing hair before I figured this out.

Ditto here on my 55hds52. I noticed the flicker during dark scenes of Mr and Mrs Smith. Later I noticed my DVD plaver (Sony) was set to 4:3. Since I've changed it to 16:9, I haven't noticed the flicker. It also widened the picture a little (top to bottom). Made me much happier!

Thanks for the info....and by top you do mean where the thumb screws were, right?

So is it impossible to get to the input connections once mounted or does it require the psychic ability to see where the cable is plugging into?

I am aware of the black flicker issues and will report on it.

I will probably wind up using cablecard for comcast HD and will try to gte my HTPC hooked up DVI->HDMI not sure on what resoltuion to output...probably 720P since it looks like it wont take a one-to-one pixel map at the native resolution.
(But I will try!)

Rich

Yes, the top screw holes are the thumb screws.

Yes, once mounted, with just the tilt adjustment, tilt the top of the panel towrds the wall and use your psychic abilities. It took me 1.5 hours to hook in 2 HDMI, 1 Firewire and an antenna lead, something that with an articulating mount would have taken 5 minutes.

Good luck.

JHellow

Hello.

I was wondering if anyone knows the difference between the 42HDT52 and the 42HDT52A.

I just purchased what I thought was a 42HDT52, but the serial number on the back says 42HDT52A.

This unit was manufactured in December of 2005. (according to the label)

The manual makes note of the two models on the cover, but I went through the whole thing cover to cover, and I couldn't find a single place that made reference to the 42HDT52A.

I'll call Hitachi tomorrow to see if they can tell me, but curiosity got the best of me so I thought I'd throw it out there to see if anyone knows.

Thanks for your replies.

Rooster - I was trying to get my set to do the black flicker thing, so i copied your settings on my 42hdt52 and watched some bits of Aliens and -lo- in the begining sequence when they open up the ship and find Ripley, the near black background shifted rapidly to a gray, then to black, back to gray as other objects of varying intensity appered onscreen. it was very faint and i drove my missus up the wall watching it over and over to see if it was really there. Went back to my old settings where contrast>brightness and it wasn't detectable. Went back and played some more and noticed that whenever i had the brightness value set a chunk above that of the contrast, the flicker became faintly noticable. Now as a disclaimer, the effect of changing my brightness control doesn't seem to work very fluidly. There is very little difference between 0-34 then at 35 it does a little brightness "jump", changes marginally between 35 and about 63ish then it does another big gain "jump", then little change between that and 100. Anybody experience this ?


What settings are you using where you don't see the flicker? I would certainly like to try yours if you are not seeing the problem. I am not experiencing the lack of brightness control you are mentioning on my 55hds. See a noticeable change within 10 setting pts.

Rooster, they are:
Contrast 60%
Brightness 45%
Color 35%
Tint: centered
Sharpness: 30%
Color Temp: Medium
Black Enhancement: off
Contrast Mode: Normal
Noise red: off
movie mode: on

I believe the 'A' version is the Canadian version with French language manuals and menu options.

Regarding black flicker:

I've continued running different material through this panel, and it's dark scene performance in Unbreakable has given me a headache with the incessant contrast flicker. It's going back and I'm going to have to reassess what set is right for me.

Sad to see it go as it's such a beautiful piece...

Rooster, they are:
Contrast 60%
Brightness 45%
Color 35%
Tint: centered
Sharpness: 30%
Color Temp: Medium
Black Enhancement: off
Contrast Mode: Normal
Noise red: off
movie mode: on


Must be difference between 55 and 42 or something. I have virtually no flicker with brightness>contrast whereas these setting above make it go crazy. Go figure. I still love the set and with the settings I am using, I'm down to about a 5% irritation factor. Figure there will be something to dislike with anything I get. Rose Bowl last night was awesome.

:( I have it on my 55HDX62.

Opening scenes to Star Wars IV a New Hope

Been trying different contrast/brightness settings and it is still there.

This is with a Toshiba SD5700 set to 16:9 using component cables.

Is anyone experiencing this with HDMI or is it only an analog thing??? Anyone seen it with HD cable?

I am going to buy a HDMI to DVI cable tomorrow to try playing Star Wars from my HTPC and if it is still there I will look into trading in for a Pioneer 50" Elite.

Has anyone tried calling Hitachi on this?

:( I have it on my 55HDX62.

Opening scenes to Star Wars IV a New Hope

Been trying different contrast/brightness settings and it is still there.

This is with a Toshiba SD5700 set to 16:9 using component cables.

Is anyone experiencing this with HDMI or is it only an analog thing??? Anyone seen it with HD cable?

I am going to buy a HDMI to DVI cable tomorrow to try playing Star Wars from my HTPC and if it is still there I will look into trading in for a Pioneer 50" Elite.

Has anyone tried calling Hitachi on this?

Ok...

So I finally got my HD box from Comcast. Set it up with the HDMI cable. I still see the flicker everyone once in a while. Not too bad but still see it.

With that being said I called Hitachi about it and their tech support guy said he has never heard of a flicker problem before (for those of you who don't know I have the 42HDS52 model). What he did say though was that he would send a technician out to take a look at it, so that's an option for those of you who are passed your 30 days from CC and now can't return or exchange it or for those who have purchased the extended warranty.

I think I'm going to go back and exchange it for another HDS52 because the picture is so unreal. I watched the Rose Bowl last night on a Sony Bravia XBR (LCD) and its got nothing on the PQ of this Hitachi. Basically for the next 3 weeks I'm going to jump through hoops to make it work. If I can't...then I don't know. I don't think there is a better Plasma with this type of PQ out there.

I'll keep everyone posted.

Good luck bleedegreene. I don't think anyone can fix it as it's most likely an attribute of the panel. They all do it, it's a matter of the material people watch and their sensitivity to it.

:( I have it on my 55HDX62.

Opening scenes to Star Wars IV a New Hope

Been trying different contrast/brightness settings and it is still there.

This is with a Toshiba SD5700 set to 16:9 using component cables.

Is anyone experiencing this with HDMI or is it only an analog thing??? Anyone seen it with HD cable?

I am going to buy a HDMI to DVI cable tomorrow to try playing Star Wars from my HTPC and if it is still there I will look into trading in for a Pioneer 50" Elite.

Has anyone tried calling Hitachi on this?

Rich,

Same thing happens with an HDMI connection. I do not notice it with DVHS through the Firewire connection.

JHellow

Hello everyone! I just purchased the 42HDS52 and it will be delivered here shortly. I was wondering if you all had any tips to follow once I turn the display on etc.? Are there good settings out there to use? I don't have Avia yet so I don't have anything to calibrate the display. When do you think is the best time to start using the XBox 360 with it, I can't wait to see what it will look like. Also, what resolution should I use for it? 720p or 1080i? Thanks in advance! You are all a big help constantly!

Other than Hitachi's press release on their web site, has anyone seen their 55" 1080p plasma at CES?

Any info would be appreciated:
MSRP?
Release date?
Handle native 1080P?
Impressions, etc?

Thanks.

ASteele85,
Welcome to the S52 club. I have not tweaked any of my display setting yet. Pay attention to the BURN-IN/BREAK-IN THREAD (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=608677). I have spent most of my time squashing ground loop issues and enjoying my set. Good luck.

bobharp,

Thanks for the welcome! I will be sure to read through that forum post today. Also I hope to become a frequent help to this forum post.

I'm surprised to see so many issues with the Hitachis. My only complaint is that mine defaults to 16:9 every time you change video inputs when I use 4:3 expanded 90% of the time. OTA High Definition is nothing short of awesome IMO.