Hey guys, thanks for taking the time to check my thread out. I had a couple of quick questions on a certain model HDTV Phillips model # 30PW8420/37 . Would this be good for gaming on a 360 and last me a while? Does this TV have a good picture quality for 599.99.

Thanks for the answers guys,

Darkshier

Hey guys, thanks for taking the time to check my thread out. I had a couple of quick questions on a certain model HDTV Phillips model # 30PW8420/37 . Would this be good for gaming on a 360 and last me a while? Does this TV have a good picture quality for 599.99.

Thanks for the answers guys,

Darkshier


I originally purchased the Philips 32PT9100D/3, which has the non-wide screen.
Loved the picture quality, but decided to go with a wide screen. Bought a Toshiba 34 inch hf85, which has had at best mixed reviews on this forum. The Tosh has worked out well for me.

Hey guys, thanks for taking the time to check my thread out. I had a couple of quick questions on a certain model HDTV Phillips model # 30PW8420/37 . Would this be good for gaming on a 360 and last me a while? Does this TV have a good picture quality for 599.99.

Thanks for the answers guys,

Darkshier

Well, this is only one person's opinion, but I bought and returned that same TV. The one I got was junk. DVD's looked OK over component inputs, but not great. OTA HDTV looked good, but not great. SD satellite, over S-Video, looked absolutely HORRIBLE. Severe ghosting, double images, and lots of grain. I haven't seen a picture look that bad since trying to watch TV with rabbit ears on my grandmother's large RCA console TV that was almost 20 years old.

I took it back and got the Samsung 26". It's smaller, but since it's for the bedroom that was ok. The picture quality is night and day better, across all inputs. And I'm not talking 10% better. I'm talking at least 50% better over component, and over 100% better over S-Video. HDTV (antenna) is maybe 35% better. They're about the same price, so if you can live with a smaller set...

UPDATE: Actually, I double checked my return receipt when I was home at lunch today, and the one I had purchased was the 30pw9110d. So, it's a slightly different model than the one you're looking at. The 30pw9110d was $668 (I got it $30 off at $638, though), so it appears to be a slightly higher-end model...Not sure what the differences are, though.

I am not a gamer, but I have the 34PW850H and it has a jaw-droppingly awesome picture, especially with DVDs.

I am not a gamer, but I have the 34PW850H and it has a jaw-droppingly awesome picture, especially with DVDs.

That's a good set!! One of the older models as well.

hey i was actually planning on buying this same tv, i just registered so i could post this. so far it looks like one guy says its garbage. im really worried about buying this now, if any one else has any more info postive or negitive please let me know. dont want 2 spend 599.99 on garbage but i'd really like a multitude of opinions, please help me out. thanks guys im sure darkshier will apreciate it to.

That's a good set!! One of the older models as well.
Yes it is. Hopefully it will last many, many years. Sometimes I lust after a bigger screen, but then I watch my 850H and realize how much I would give up in going to any other technology. Guess we all have to be happy with 34" and hope they still exist in 20 or 30 years when mandatory replacement time comes. (I watch in a dark room with contrast at 29/100 and brightness at 43/100. This looks best and extends tube life.)

one more quick question is the native resolution of this tv 1080i or 480p. and what would this tv do if it recieved a 720p signal. any help you can give me will be much appreciated.

Well, this is only one person's opinion, but I bought and returned that same TV. The one I got was junk. DVD's looked OK over component inputs, but not great. OTA HDTV looked good, but not great. SD satellite, over S-Video, looked absolutely HORRIBLE. Severe ghosting, double images, and lots of grain. I haven't seen a picture look that bad since trying to watch TV with rabbit ears on my grandmother's large RCA console TV that was almost 20 years old.

I took it back and got the Samsung 26". It's smaller, but since it's for the bedroom that was ok. The picture quality is night and day better, across all inputs. And I'm not talking 10% better. I'm talking at least 50% better over component, and over 100% better over S-Video. HDTV (antenna) is maybe 35% better. They're about the same price, so if you can live with a smaller set...

Actually, I double checked my return receipt when I was home at lunch today, and the one I had purchased was the 30pw9110d. So, it's a slightly different model than the one you're looking at. The 30pw9110d was $668 (I got it $30 off at $638, though), so it appears to be a slightly higher-end model...Not sure what the differences are, though.

The 8420 is a better set than the 9110d or 9100d. Both the d models have a built in digital tuner (hence the d) and for some reason they treat analog material (analog tuner, composite, s-video) like crap. The ghosting is really bad. When using the digital, ghosting is still apparent, but not nearly as bad as analog. We've got one of each of these sets set up at our store side by side and the 8420 has a great analog picture as well as a great hd picture. The analog on the 9110d is completely unwatchable. The only thing I did was I used the service menu to tweak the 8420's color on the HD input since Philips sets don't allow a tint adjustment on component/HD inputs.

Personally, I've got the 30pw850h model and have had it for over 2 years now. The set has performed great. The only downside to mine is that it doesn't have a digital input, either dvi or hdmi.

The 8420 is a better set than the 9110d or 9100d. Both the d models have a built in digital tuner (hence the d) and for some reason they treat analog material (analog tuner, composite, s-video) like crap. The ghosting is really bad. When using the digital, ghosting is still apparent, but not nearly as bad as analog. We've got one of each of these sets set up at our store side by side and the 8420 has a great analog picture as well as a great hd picture. The analog on the 9110d is completely unwatchable. The only thing I did was I used the service menu to tweak the 8420's color on the HD input since Philips sets don't allow a tint adjustment on component/HD inputs.

Personally, I've got the 30pw850h model and have had it for over 2 years now. The set has performed great. The only downside to mine is that it doesn't have a digital input, either dvi or hdmi.

Excellent comparison. I had tried the "d" model, and found it exactly as you describe: aweful. Good to hear the 8420 is apprently much better...

The 8420 is a better set than the 9110d or 9100d. Both the d models have a built in digital tuner (hence the d) and for some reason they treat analog material (analog tuner, composite, s-video) like crap. The ghosting is really bad. When using the digital, ghosting is still apparent, but not nearly as bad as analog. We've got one of each of these sets set up at our store side by side and the 8420 has a great analog picture as well as a great hd picture. The analog on the 9110d is completely unwatchable. The only thing I did was I used the service menu to tweak the 8420's color on the HD input since Philips sets don't allow a tint adjustment on component/HD inputs.



Very nice to hear that, I was wondering whether I should go with the 8420 or the 9 series. But this puts that question to a end.

ok so what i have so far Gecko85 said it was horrible but then revamped his statement. this threw me off and i started looking for another tv i found this one Samsung TXR2678WH good price and they have one at my local bb. now im confused on which one to get. if oryan dunn reads this what did u mean exactly when u said u had to use the service menu to tweak some things? was it hard? im planning on making my buy within the next month any and all feedback is much apprieciated. thanks guys.

ok so what i have so far Gecko85 said it was horrible but then revamped his statement. this threw me off and i started looking for another tv i found this one Samsung TXR2678WH good price and they have one at my local bb. now im confused on which one to get. if oryan dunn reads this what did u mean exactly when u said u had to use the service menu to tweak some things? was it hard? im planning on making my buy within the next month any and all feedback is much apprieciated. thanks guys.

When I returned the 9-series Philips, I got the Samsung, and I like it MUCH better than the 9 series Philips. However, I've never compared it to the 8-series Philips that you're looking at...I'm very happy with the Samsung, and it has an excellent PQ, even with the S-Video inputs.

FWIW, I don't have a 30pw8420, yet, but I have one on order. During my research before buying I read a lot of really good reviews regarding the PQ, once the set was calibrated and working properly. It seems as though there were some issues with poor displays that were generally always fixed under warranty, ie they were actually defective, and not indicative of the models PQ.

I, too, have seen all the conflicting reports of wether the composite inputs can handle 1080i signals or not. It wasn't TOO important to me, as any HD tuner (OTA, sat, cable) that I connect will have DVI or HDMI and even with just 480p the composite will be fine for DVDs. However, despite what some people have said, it seems that most people agree that you can send a full HD signal over the composite port. I'll test it when I am able to (when I get the TV in about a week, and hopefully pick up an OTA HD tuner with both HDMI and composite).

Either way, it seems like a good TV for the money; I went for a refurb at $400, so not many complaints from me regardless!

Not all of the 9 series are bad. The 30 and 34 in 3xPW981x models are some of Philips best CRT HD sets around. They are all older models and if you find one for a good deal, I wouldn't hesitate to get it. In particular, the 9819 model stands above all the rest because it has a DVI input. These older sets from Philips do some amazing things with analog content. They have a feature called PixelPlus that doubles the horizontal and vertical resolution of analog source material, including 480i dvd input. These sets also have something called DigitalNaturalMotion that does a great job at deinterlacing the picture. These two things combined made these sets hard to beat when it came to and HD set displaying analog content. Many people who have these sets prefer to leave their dvd player in interlace mode and have the TV do its magic on the signal because it looks that much better.

The newer 9 series (91x0d) are no where near the calibure of the older sets. The 8 series (8520, 850h, 8420, 8402, 8502, and 862h) are all similar though some are better than others. The newest one is probably the best, the 8420. The 8402 and 8502 are almost identical feature wise, where the 8502 has the same cabinet design as the 8420 and the 8402 has the same cabinet design as the 862h. The 850 and 862 are very similar internally, except that the 862 has a dvi port. The 8520 is an old set that I don't know much about. I would help if Philips had a more understandable numbering scheme.

You can browse most of Philips sets here:
http://www.p4c.philips.com/files/3/

This is a world wide listing where 32" and 36" widescreen sets are european sets that would be labeld a 30" and 34" here in the states (viewable size, not actual size). Most of the sets have either the instructions or pamplets to look through.

EDIT:
oh yeah, if you do want to get an old 9 series, keep and eye on this page:
http://www.electronicsnation.com/en/products/show_product/category/70

Every once in a while one will show up there. That site is an official Philips site for selling refurb tvs and they come with (I believe) the same warranty as a new set. Some have had bad luck with them because they are mail order and if you get a lemon, then it can take a while to get things sorted out.

mrgreen please keep me updated id really like to talk 2 someone with first hand experience. also any info concerning the resolution and the component imputs would be much appriecated because i plan to use the component imputs to recvieve a 1080 i signal from my xbox 360. if it cant do this then im out of luck, please keep me posted. thanks

The 8420 can accept 1080i, 720p, 480p, and 480i over the component input. This tv will fit the bill for the xbox 360. It will also work with a playstation 3 since it has hdmi.

Oh, BTW, mrgreen, there is a big difference between composite and component. Compostite will only pass 480i, its the old yellow plug; whereas component is capable of full hd resolutions over the green, blue and red cables.

The 8420 can accept 1080i, 720p, 480p, and 480i over the component input. This tv will fit the bill for the xbox 360. It will also work with a playstation 3 since it has hdmi.

Oh, BTW, mrgreen, there is a big difference between composite and component. Compostite will only pass 480i, its the old yellow plug; whereas component is capable of full hd resolutions over the green, blue and red cables.

Whoops, I knew that... just been on a lot of cold medicine the last few days and typed composite when I meant component!

I've not heard that the 8420 will take a 720p signal... if it does would it upconvert to 1080i or down to 480p?

Steve, when I eventually get the TV (should be here in about a week, I bought it from the site that oryan mentioned, actually) I will also hopefully have worked out a way to get OTA HD signals in my apartment (see my post in the HDTV Antennas thread if you think you can help :) ) and picked up one of the OTA HD tuners that radio shack has on clearance which will allow me, according to the docs I've seen, select what signal is outputs; 1080i, 720p, 480p, or 480i. I'll plug it into the component port and see what it does with each signal and report back in with a definitive answer.

Quick question about the Philips 8 series, and I suppose HD CRTs in general... I and my family have had standard CRT sets that lasted for 10+ years with little to no troubles. I'm using two sets that are in the 15 year old range right now, and while they are both starting to lose the brightness and color accuracy they used to have they do work.

Will this TV last 10 years, assuming there are no 'catastrophic failures'? I bought a 2 year warranty, so I am hoping anything is going to happen will happen in that period, but after that, what can I expect? I've read that LCD and Plasma displays have a significantly shorter lifespan than CRTs, but do the higher quality HD CRTs have the same sort of reliability that the old ones do?

Thanks for any insight here!

I double checked today on the 8420. When the receiver outputs 720p, the tv shows 1080i. So this downconverts 720p to 1080i for display.

I double checked today on the 8420. When the receiver outputs 720p, the tv shows 1080i. So this downconverts 720p to 1080i for display.

So you're one of THOSE! ;-) Personally, I have trouble seeing the difference between the two, but that's good to know.

lol, I personally don't see the difference either, but the technical properties of 720p are slighly higher than 1080i, even though 1080i has a higher resolution.

Hey, sounds like you have access to a lot of these HD sets, I'm assuming you work in a showroom, store, or repair facility? Anyways, I was wondering if you could answer a question about the 8420 for me... Does it automatically convert 480i signals to 480p? I thought that I read some of the Philips sets did and others did not? Or maybe they all did? Is this conversion noticeable or is just something on paper?

Lastly, for SD sources, namely my TiVo, will using the SVideo port over the composite port make any difference? I'm trying to order all my cables online to save money, and to have them all here by the time the TV arrives so I don't have to crawl behind it later on... I already ordered myself a DVI to HDMI cable and some good component cables for my Mac and my progressive scan DVD player, but didn't think to get an SVideo cable for the TiVo. Should I? Will it matter?

Thanks for answering these questions, I know that I am not the only one who is wondering a bit about this set as there are a lot of really good deals out there for it right now.

Hey, sounds like you have access to a lot of these HD sets, I'm assuming you work in a showroom, store, or repair facility? Anyways, I was wondering if you could answer a question about the 8420 for me... Does it automatically convert 480i signals to 480p? I thought that I read some of the Philips sets did and others did not? Or maybe they all did? Is this conversion noticeable or is just something on paper?


On my set, I have the option in the menu to convert 480i sources to 480p or to have them converted to 1050i (yes that is a 5, which comes from the 525 lines of standard def where only 480 are actually visable). Both look almost identical, but 480p mode has some moire effect towards the edges so I leave it on 1050i. As for the 8420, I can check at work on monday, but I don't recall there being an option, so it probably does one or the other.

Lastly, for SD sources, namely my TiVo, will using the SVideo port over the composite port make any difference? I'm trying to order all my cables online to save money, and to have them all here by the time the TV arrives so I don't have to crawl behind it later on... I already ordered myself a DVI to HDMI cable and some good component cables for my Mac and my progressive scan DVD player, but didn't think to get an SVideo cable for the TiVo. Should I? Will it matter?


To be honest I don't see much difference in composite vs. s-video on my set. If I had the choice though, I'd use an S-video just becuase it is slighly superior. Basically if the set you are hooking a component to has a very good comb filter (at least thats what comming to mind, it may acutally be some other part of the set) then it is possible for composite to look just about as good and maybe better than s-video in some circumstances. I'm just going by pure gut on this, so if anyone has facts one way or the other let me know, but I'm thinking that a device like an N64 will look better over composite than s-video because to make s-video the n64 has to separate the chromanace from the luminance internally and it is quite likely that your tv will do a better job of it than the unit itself (iirc, the n64 internally is rgb and just combines them for composite signal and hence why it must separate y/c for s-video). Again I could be way off base on that, so let me know if I am.

Thanks for answering these questions, I know that I am not the only one who is wondering a bit about this set as there are a lot of really good deals out there for it right now.

np, and yes there are some great deals. Check my profile for my job.

hey can u also find out what this tv does with 720p thanks.

Converts it to 1080i

Did you have a chance to check what the options were for 480i signals on the 8420? I appreciate all your help in this thread!

Crap forgot! I'll try to remember to check tomorrow at work.

Well, I couldn't be certain, but I was looking at this display while I was in WalMart today, and it looked like the SD content was being upconverted to at least 480p. As far as I could tell all the TVs were getting the same 4:3 feed and the 30pw8420 was in some kind of non-linear stretch mode and it looked much clearer and cleaner than anything nearby it (another philips 30" widescreen, something in the 9xxx series that was black, a couple Sanyo's, and some 26" widescreen I can't remember - Advent?).

I was actually trying to figure out if it was an HD image for a couple minutes until they went to a video game commercial that had some borders around the game image, and that made it pretty clear it was a stretched image. If all SD content looks that good I think I am going to be in for a treat!

I did notice some significant geometry issues around the edges of the display, but some time spent with a calibration disc and the service menu should be able to fix any issues like that.

I have the 26/8402 it converrts 480i to 480p , you just have to tweak and make sure your stb and tv are set the same.Native resolution is 1080i If the set has auto picture make sure it is active on sd material, it doesn't effect the hd signal. Personally I use two signals one directly to my tv for sd and one to my stb for hd.Also if your dvd convertor isn't as good as the tv let the tv do the work, after much trial and error I have everything just right , good luck.

Oryan or anyone who may know,
does the 30PW8420 convert 480i to 480p from an SD signal? If so how do you go about doing it?

I know the 8402 has something called "eyefidelity" that allows it to do this. But, I'm not sure if the 8420 has it too.

Oryan is supposed to be checking on this for us at his work, he's dropped alot of great info so far so im guessing once he knows he will post. keep checking back.

I have that same tv 30PW8420/37 and it is going back to the store tomorrow. I have horizontal lines that show up on a dark screen, geometric issues, grainy DVD and a buble in the tube on the upper left side. My issues have became worse over time (I have only had this TV for a month or so.) This TV looked great before the lines and geometric issues showed up though.

I have that same tv 30PW8420/37 and it is going back to the store tomorrow. I have horizontal lines that show up on a dark screen, geometric issues, grainy DVD and a buble in the tube on the upper left side. My issues have became worse over time (I have only had this TV for a month or so.) This TV looked great before the lines and geometric issues showed up though.

Everytime I decide on a TV I hear crappy news about it. Looks like I'm back to square one.. :(

I was scheduled to get one of these today, but it came yesterday. :D After setting up and watching a it alst night, here are my early observations...

The color quality and overall image look excellent. It needs to be calibrated (there seems to be a lot of red bleeding into everything) but even at the default settings it looks nice. I watched Kill Bill Vol. 2 on DVD and there is a scene that is complete darkness. The black level was amazing; looked like the TV was off. I noticed that there was a single line of 'pixels' on the very top row that had some lit up elements. It was barely visable and I had to really look for it even aftre I knew it was there. With any image on the screen they either go away or are not visible. I didn't notice this on other inputs besides the component, so it may be something with that set of connectors and not the actual display.

SD TV looked pretty good. Using the 'Super Stretch' mode the screen was filled with reasonable distortion. I did notice that if I didn't 'nudge' the screen down when in that mode it cut off a bit to much of the top. I have a stand alone TiVo with a lot of shows recorded on it. My old TV sucked, so I could record in pretty low quality (Medium setting) and it looked fine. On the 30pw8420 it looked like crap. Things recorded in a higher quality (live TV, for example, which is a buffered Best quality recording) looked pretty good. Using the preset for "Weak Signal" helped smooth out the MPEG artifacts from the TiVo and makes it completely watchable, if a little dark. I am using standard composite input for the TiVo right now, but I have an SVideo cable that should be in the cable today or tomorrow to see if it improves the image any.

Things I noticed that I don't like: the set doesn't seem to remember what settings it should be using for different inputs, so when going from DVD to regular TV signal I have to manually switch from widescreen to Super Zoom and re-nudge the image down again. Then I have to change the picture settings from "personal" or "movie" (whatever I was using for that DVD) to the "weak signal" setting. It's a bit annoying but not a hige deal. I am hoping that when I get my HD digital cable box on Saturday it will solve some of these issues.

Also, there are some definate geometry issues along the edges, particularly the top half. They seem to come and go based on the image brightness, and are faily minor (maybe a 1cm "pull" inward) and only effect the area right by the edge of the screen (it doesn't distort the rest of the picture). I'm going to try and adjust this out with the service menu when I get a calibration DVD, but they really don't bother me at all. If it gets worse I will have it looked at as I have a 2 year in home service warranty.

Lasty, it doesn't seem to to upconvert 480i signals at all. I could be mistaken, as it is hard to tell with a highly compressed MPEG2 signal, but it looks about like it does on an SD TV. Not bad, just passable.

On a final positive, the sound is actually really good, for the built in set speakers. The voices come out very clear while in Virtual Dolby sound mode, and music/sound effects aren't overpoweringly loud (for the most part). The AVS (automatic volume sensor) feature is pretty useless. Doesn't work while Dolby Virtual sound is selected, and doesn't seem to make a huge difference, but I also haven't watched any TV with commercials yet.

I'll see how SD and HD cable coming in over the HDMI port look tomorrow.

Summary:

It's a great TV for the money, I feel like I got a bargain at $400+60 for 2 year in home warranty.

+Very nice 480p image with component input
+Stretch mode puts 4:3 contect onto 16:9 screen with acceptable distortion
+Preset image calibration modes do a good job with poor quality source signals
+Built-in sound is good
+EXCELLENT color and black levels, even in factory settings

-Slight geometry distortions during high contrast scenes
-Doesn't seem to upconvery SD signals
-Doesn't remember image settings between different inputs

Overall score for SD sources (analog cable, TiVo recordings, and DVDs): 7/10 (get's a litte boost from the really good DVD quality even from my cheap-o Prog Scan DVD player!)

I'll post a follow up with HD and other higher quality sources after the weekend!

PS Anyone who is thinking about this TV would be advices to consider getting a refurb unit from Philips or a reseller. The set is definately a budget quality model, and in my opinion, not worth the $600-700 retail price. However, at $400 delivered with no tax (depending on where you live), it becomes an excellent value.

Everytime I decide on a TV I hear crappy news about it. Looks like I'm back to square one.. :(

Don't let one persons bad experience get you down on something. Think about it like this: someone who is happy with their set is far less likely to get online and post about it than someone who is unsatisified.

For every bad thing you hear about this TV online there is probably 2 or 3 people who are unhappy. But for every good review you see there is probably 100+ people who are equally pleased with the product.

If you have a sub-$500 budget for a new TV (that was the situation I was in), you can either get a nice SD TV, a really small HD TV, or a set like this that is large, HD, decent quality image, and most importantly to some of us, CHEAP.

Figuring in the TV, my DVD player, and the eventual home theatre surround system (S570 is what I am eyeballing right now) I will have spent less on my who set up than some people will on just the receiver for thiers.

Will it be "as good"? No, of course not. Will it be a 5.1 HD big screen home theatre? Yes. Will I be happy with it? Yep.

Is there a difference between the 30PW8420/37 and the 30PW8520/37?

Don't let one persons bad experience get you down on something. Think about it like this: someone who is happy with their set is far less likely to get online and post about it than someone who is unsatisified.

For every bad thing you hear about this TV online there is probably 2 or 3 people who are unhappy. But for every good review you see there is probably 100+ people who are equally pleased with the product.

If you have a sub-$500 budget for a new TV (that was the situation I was in), you can either get a nice SD TV, a really small HD TV, or a set like this that is large, HD, decent quality image, and most importantly to some of us, CHEAP.

Figuring in the TV, my DVD player, and the eventual home theatre surround system (S570 is what I am eyeballing right now) I will have spent less on my who set up than some people will on just the receiver for thiers.

Will it be "as good"? No, of course not. Will it be a 5.1 HD big screen home theatre? Yes. Will I be happy with it? Yep.

I agree, mrgreen. Thanks.. :)

Is there a difference between the 30PW8420/37 and the 30PW8520/37?

Yes, aside from $200+ more, it has EyeFidelity, which I THINK is what Philips calls their upconversion for SD signals. The 8520 also lacks a digital input (no DVI or HDMI) but it does have a VGA connector.

I think that the lack of the HDMI might be an issue in the future, as I am expecting the HDDVD players to only output full res over a protected digital connection. However, I hear that he EyeFidelity is really nice.

Don't know much more about it than that.

Hope it helps. If you would like a good coupon code for the 8420 or 8402 from electronicsnation.com let me know and I can PM you the one I used for mine!

Good luck
Rob

PS This site has a product details for the 8520 available for download... http://usersmanualguide.com/philips/tv__widescreen_tv_-_29-32_inch/30pw8520

mrgreen4242,
thanks for the great post.
If this TV can make SD signals look like it does on a SD TV, thats pretty good.

I look forward to hearing how the HD is.

Yes, aside from $200+ more, it has EyeFidelity, which I THINK is what Philips calls their upconversion for SD signals. The 8520 also lacks a digital input (no DVI or HDMI) but it does have a VGA connector.

I think that the lack of the HDMI might be an issue in the future, as I am expecting the HDDVD players to only output full res over a protected digital connection. However, I hear that he EyeFidelity is really nice.

Don't know much more about it than that.

Hope it helps. If you would like a good coupon code for the 8420 or 8402 from electronicsnation.com let me know and I can PM you the one I used for mine!

Good luck
Rob

PS This site has a product details for the 8520 available for download... http://usersmanualguide.com/philips/tv__widescreen_tv_-_29-32_inch/30pw8520


Thanks for the info, Rob.. I think I'm leaning towards the 8520 but I would appreciate it if you would pm me with the coupon for the 8420 just in case I decide to go that route. Thanks again.

Well, I had a chance to check out the service menu on my set. I didn't do to much with it, since I am just not qualified to muck with it! However the geometry settings don't have a whole ton of options, but some basic stuff you'll find on a nice computer CRT monitor. Since the geometry distortions on my set seem to be based on the contrast of the image on the screen none of these options looked like they would do a whole lot for me.

It's really noticeable when you are in a 4:3 mode and there are black bars on the left and right, but almost unnoticeable on a 16:9 image (native or stretched). It's not a huge deal, since I don't watch a lot of stuff with the side-boxing.

Any suggestions?

*EDIT* This seems to effect the composite inputs much more than the component. I think it may have to do with that, so I'm hoping that switching to an Svideo cable will help minimize the effect. I'm also hoping that the HDMI input will have even less distortion, but we shall see...

If it bothers me any more I'll have a service guy come in and try to adjust it; the in home extended warranty should cover it.

I went to Circuit City today and I was impressed with the picture of the philips 8420. The problem was when I compared it to the Sony KV-30HS420 and a 30 inch panasonic I could see the 8420 flickered a lot (the guy there said it was because there were all on the same feed but I didn't notice the other sets doing it).

The other thing was the 8420 had a problem when the black bars on the side appeared. I could see the 8420 pincushioning way more than the other sets. I'm assuming that pincushioning means when the straight lines do a little dance.

I still prefer the picture of the 8420 but the problems it has might be too much. The Sony KV-30HS420 looked good but I really hate the cabinet. Sony makes the ugliest cabinets (or cases, whatever they're called). It's almost as if they know people will buy their TV's regardless..

OK, got my Comcast HD DVR today... the Moto 6412. Nice piece of hardware. The box will upconvert 480i signals to 1080i, and it actually looks pretty decent. I have the 6412 connect with an HDMI cable from monoprice ($6). Using that upconvertion and the Philips "super zoom" mode (the progressive stretch mode) and the "weak signal" video preset (to smooth/darken over the artifacting) SD sources looks GOOD. Just like watching on a nice SD set.

HD channels look AMAZING. Crystal clear image, super vibrant colors, absolutely amazing. I don't even like football or baseball (hockey fan) but I watched college football on ESPNHD and World Series baseball on FOX HD for over an hour just to look at it. If HD quality on a budget is your prime concern, take a look at this set.

With the cable box my issues with upconvertion are taken care of. The problem with the set remembering settings based on input is still a bit of a bother, but not a huge concern. The geometry distortions are still a problem, but in 16:9 modes it's a pretty small bother, and the 1080i upconvertion along with the very nice stretch modes let me watch just about everything in full screen, so I'm not too worried about it.

I will try to take some photo's of some SD content stretched and upconverted if anyone is interested.

I'd be interested in the photos..

Is anyone else getting strange faint horizontal lines when setting the your DVD player to progressive? I have it in widescreen mode and it has a great picture when I leave the DVD in normal mode instead of progressive. When the movie starts it says 480i in the corner unless I change the DVD player to progressive. Any help on getting rid of the lines? Thanks guys!

Oh, BTW I just got the 30PW8420 referb from Philips for $400 and it only has a few small scuffs on the sides.

Yes, I have the horizontal lines on my month old 30PW8420 refurb as well. They are visible when using component connections, but not HDMI. They are much more noticeable when my dvd player is set to progressive (480P) and they aren't as bad at 480I.

I have gone through the service menu and adjusted the geometry and colors with DVE. The service menu is quite limited and I'm pretty sure there is not an option to turn on "eye fidelity".

hey, i'm loving the input on the 30PW8420 model, but I'm interested in the 34PW8402/37B. i'm mainly going to be using this TV for xbox 360, but i've heard some mixed feelings about it. i'm on a fairly tight budget of about $850, and if you advise against this TV please let me know if i can get one better. thanks.

I also have the horizontal lines when in progressive scan. However, I fiddled with the sharpness and picture settings on my DVD player and they seem to have mostly gone away.

Ambiades,
I think the 8402 is the previous model. The main difference between these two models (other than the 8402's being less attractive) is that the 8402 has "eye fidelity" but a 2D digital comb filter while the 8420 has a 3D digital comb filter but no "eye fidelity". The comb filters only come into play when using less than component or S-video cables. Eye fidelity is a nice feature that doubles scan lines.

It is strange but now when I put it in 4:3 for games I get the pin cushion effect. The middle of the picture goes in and the corners go out. It seems to happen during bright scenes on the set. This didn't do it a few days ago. Do I need to get a DVD to calibrate the set to help this problem? I pray that the xbox360 games look awsome on this set even without 720p and just 480p and 1080i and that there are no horizontal lines.

watskooo and lakersin ,

Any chance those lines are made by crappy component cables? I just realized that the ones I use are the cheapest walmart philips ones that aren't even gold plated.
What are you guys using?

I'm using a decent AR component cable, and I've tried a couple different cables as well as sources, and the lines haven't changed.

What type of DVD player are you using?

I have a Pioneer 578 DVD player, but I've also noticed the lines from a Motorola 6412 DVR and a JVC DVD Recorder.

The lines are barely noticeable at 480I so that's what I use.

I've been using a $75 sony from Costco and the lines seem to come and go depending on the movie. Although, some tweaking with the picture settings helped a great deal. It's usually barely noticeable.

I'm thinking about returning the dvd player and seeing how other players interact with this TV. Mainly from boredom. It's not usually very noticeable. There's a toshiba at costco that can upconvert to 1080i. Maybe that'll improve the picture.

Not too far off topic, went into Good Guys today to check out the Closeouts, depressing atmosphere, store half empty, nobody could see it as half full.
This is where I picked up my 34pw9819, an excellent TV, probably Philips' best HD CRT, back in December. It had been discontinued, and I walked in on the last night of a two week clearance sale. I walked out having spent $999 plus tax, on a TV that the next day was back up to $1699. That was a good feeling. This TV has jaw dropping PQ and a number of nice abilities. DVI, no internal digital tuner, and weighs in at 173#.
Oryan, correct me if you know better, but didn't the 9819 retail originally for over $2000?
Well, today in Good Guys, there was the last one, on the shelf, might have been a display, going for $818! HD ready 34" Widescreen. Wish I had space or a reason for another. What a deal. If you have a Good Guys near by it is worth a look see.

I bought the 30PW8420 refurbished and it works great. I picked up an old Direct TV receiver to use the ATSC digital tuner (Hird E8). The HD broadcasts look amazing in 1080i over the component inputs. The DVD's look poor in comparison to the HD, but very good when compared to any other TV.

I also get the horizontal lines when using the progressive scan option on my DVD player. It is mostly noticeable on large areas of solid color in dark settings (Beauty and the Beast made it very apparent). I tried 2 different DVD players and cables of various qualities, and go the same result. I now watch DVD's on the 480i mode, and do not notice a drop in picture quality.

I am considering an up converting DVD player to correct the issue. I have read reviews on the Sony DVP-NS70H, and I am temped to try it. I am concerned however, that I will be throwing money away, since BluRay and HD-DVD players are the next REAL upgrade, and I already have 3 working DVD players (4 if you count the PC).


Is the quality difference worth the $150 for a new Sony 1080i up convert DVD player and a HDMI cable?

Has anyone tried this combination?

I bought the 30PW8420 refurbished and it works great. I picked up an old Direct TV receiver to use the ATSC digital tuner (Hird E8). The HD broadcasts look amazing in 1080i over the component inputs. The DVD's look poor in comparison to the HD, but very good when compared to any other TV.

I also get the horizontal lines when using the progressive scan option on my DVD player. It is mostly noticeable on large areas of solid color in dark settings (Beauty and the Beast made it very apparent). I tried 2 different DVD players and cables of various qualities, and go the same result. I now watch DVD's on the 480i mode, and do not notice a drop in picture quality.

I am considering an up converting DVD player to correct the issue. I have read reviews on the Sony DVP-NS70H, and I am temped to try it. I am concerned however, that I will be throwing money away, since BluRay and HD-DVD players are the next REAL upgrade, and I already have 3 working DVD players (4 if you count the PC).

Is the quality difference worth the $150 for a new Sony 1080i up convert DVD player and a HDMI cable?

Has anyone tried this combination?

I've had a refurbished 30PW8420 for three months now, and I've found it to be 95% excellent. I reserve that other 5% for the fact that the screen tends to pincushion on the sides next to bright image areas, but that can be minimized by reducing the brightness setting. Otherwise, I've found this set to be a super deal with excellent PQ.

I have an upcoverting LG combo OTA tuner/DVD player, connected to the 8420 via DVI/HDMI. Under this setup everything displays at 1080i, and it's simply amazing to watch. Of course, live HD broadcasts are best, followed by other HD broadcasts, and then DVD quality, which is very satisfactory. 1080i on DVD display is far superior to 480p. I've never experienced the horizontal lines you describe, whether in 480p or 1080i.

So, to answer your question, upconverting DVDs and HDMI input really bring out the best in the 8420.

Thanks Harpeth, It will take some convincing to get my wife to think we need another DVD player (but I will try).

Have you tried 480p through the component inputs? Maybe the horizontal lines are related to the component ports. If I get closer to the TV (it will rot your brain), I see the lines in 480i mode as well. They are closer together and less noticeable/contrasted. "Lines", are not exactly a good way to describe them. Its like bands of slightly darker color scrolling on the solid colors in the background. It is most noticeable in a dark setting with a stagnant background with moving objects in the foreground. I have not noticed them when I use the gamecube on the S-video port at 480i. However, in most games, everything is moving, so its hard to recreate the ideal screen to test the problem. The HD broadcasts have no problem and are hooked up thought the component as well. (I am using a switcher box to compensate for the lone component input)

I have the pincushion on 4:3 as well, but its not a big deal to me. When digital broadcasts come in 4:3, my tuner will use grey bars as apposed to black ones, and the pincushion is gone. I own very little DVD content in 4:3, so I am not concerned.

Glad to hear you got a good referb as well. Mine looks new. I got it through electronicsnation (which ships straight from the Philips referb stock, but I felt more comfortable dealing electronicsnation for the sale), and purchased a 3 year warranty. I thought it was a gamble, but it paid off. It was shipped from Dallas, and almost fell out of its box. It was well packaged, but the bottom of the box was just about done when the TV arrived here in Maryland. Just to be safe, I cut it out of the box to carry it into the house.

Thanks Harpeth, It will take some convincing to get my wife to think we need another DVD player (but I will try).

Have you tried 480p through the component inputs? Maybe the horizontal lines are related to the component ports. If I get closer to the TV (it will rot your brain), I see the lines in 480i mode as well. They are closer together and less noticeable/contrasted. "Lines", are not exactly a good way to describe them. Its like bands of slightly darker color scrolling on the solid colors in the background. It is most noticeable in a dark setting with a stagnant background with moving objects in the foreground. I have not noticed them when I use the gamecube on the S-video port at 480i. However, in most games, everything is moving, so its hard to recreate the ideal screen to test the problem. The HD broadcasts have no problem and are hooked up thought the component as well. (I am using a switcher box to compensate for the lone component input)

I have the pincushion on 4:3 as well, but its not a big deal to me. When digital broadcasts come in 4:3, my tuner will use grey bars as apposed to black ones, and the pincushion is gone. I own very little DVD content in 4:3, so I am not concerned.

Glad to hear you got a good referb as well. Mine looks new. I got it through electronicsnation (which ships straight from the Philips referb stock, but I felt more comfortable dealing electronicsnation for the sale), and purchased a 3 year warranty. I thought it was a gamble, but it paid off. It was shipped from Dallas, and almost fell out of its box. It was well packaged, but the bottom of the box was just about done when the TV arrived here in Maryland. Just to be safe, I cut it out of the box to carry it into the house.


blambert,

When I first got my set, which I got directly from Philips Outlet online (coming out of Columbus, OH), all I had was component and composite hookups. Because my LG tuner won't upconvert over either one, I ordered a Monoprice DVI/HDMI cable. So, to answer your question, for a short time back in January I used 480p over component, but I don't remember any problem. My son uses the component inputs with his Gamecube, and I've seen no problem there.

Interesting that the pincushion goes away with gray side bars. I'll have to see if I have any option to try that. For me, reducing brightness significantly reduced pincushioning, to the point that it's rarely noticeable.

As I said earlier, my unit came directly from Philips and was packed as well as anything I've ever received. Like yours, it looks brand-new. Since it was a refurb, I also bought a 3-year warranty, but from a third-party insurer. My family has been totally pleased with our set, especially considering the bargain price.

Anyone know how to get into the service menu of these TV's. I have a 26pw8402.

try 0-6-2-5-9-6 (Status/Exit or Info)

perfect! Thx so much.

I had some bad flickering problems with my set (30PW8420). I went into the menu settings for the Cable Box and changed the Component setting from 1080I to 720p. It seemed to fix the problem, at least for now. Since this TV's native res is 1080i, what are some of the pitfalls from doing this?

blambert,

When I first got my set, which I got directly from Philips Outlet online (coming out of Columbus, OH), all I had was component and composite hookups. Because my LG tuner won't upconvert over either one, I ordered a Monoprice DVI/HDMI cable. So, to answer your question, for a short time back in January I used 480p over component, but I don't remember any problem. My son uses the component inputs with his Gamecube, and I've seen no problem there.

Interesting that the pincushion goes away with gray side bars. I'll have to see if I have any option to try that. For me, reducing brightness significantly reduced pincushioning, to the point that it's rarely noticeable.

As I said earlier, my unit came directly from Philips and was packed as well as anything I've ever received. Like yours, it looks brand-new. Since it was a refurb, I also bought a 3-year warranty, but from a third-party insurer. My family has been totally pleased with our set, especially considering the bargain price.


What's up Harpeth. I recently purchased a Philips 9011d 30 inch hdtv (the black one) from WM. Like you have said the pq is quite nice I have no complaints. One thing I did notice though, at the bottom left of the screen there is a ever so slight shade effect. It is not very noticable, as a matter of fact you only notice it on a completely white picture. It does not detract from my satisfaction of the tv, but I hope is nothing I have to worry about. What do you think?

What's up Harpeth. I recently purchased a Philips 9011d 30 inch hdtv (the black one) from WM. Like you have said the pq is quite nice I have no complaints. One thing I did notice though, at the bottom left of the screen there is a ever so slight shade effect. It is not very noticable, as a matter of fact you only notice it on a completely white picture. It does not detract from my satisfaction of the tv, but I hope is nothing I have to worry about. What do you think?

Novastar,

I haven't experienced what you're describing. Maybe one of the 30PW9110D users on this board will be able to comment.

I had some bad flickering problems with my set (30PW8420). I went into the menu settings for the Cable Box and changed the Component setting from 1080I to 720p. It seemed to fix the problem, at least for now. Since this TV's native res is 1080i, what are some of the pitfalls from doing this?

My 8420 won't accept a 720p signal. I've tried it several times with my OTA tuner, but I just get an empty blue screen. For my set it's got to be either one of the 480 signals or 1080i.

FWIW, I keep mine set on 1080i, but I haven't had any of the flickering you describe.

Do you have the 8420 or the 8402? I believe the 20 can take a 720p while the 02 cannot.

Do you have the 8420 or the 8402? I believe the 20 can take a 720p while the 02 cannot.

I believe you are correct on that. My 30pw8502 will not do 720p.

Do you have the 8420 or the 8402? I believe the 20 can take a 720p while the 02 cannot.

Mine's an 8420. The Philips literature says it will only display at 480i, 480p, and 1080i. That's been my experience too. When I've attempted to play a DVD at 720p it doesn't work.

Maybe it can only take 720p over component, and not over HDMI?

Here's what the online specs say about the 8420's display capabilities:

Supported Display Resolution
Video formats : 480p (60Hz Refresh rate), 1080i (60Hz Refresh rate)

Novastar,

I haven't experienced what you're describing. Maybe one of the 30PW9110D users on this board will be able to comment.
Novastar,
I have a 30PW9100D/37 Silver Case Philips and do not have any shading in lower left part
of screen. Grat PQ.

Don

Here's what the online specs say about the 8420's display capabilities:

Supported Display Resolution
Video formats : 480p (60Hz Refresh rate), 1080i (60Hz Refresh rate)

I just got an 8420 last week, and I can verify that it can accept a 720p source and upscale it to 1080i for display.

Brendonrik, I figured out what it was, it was the picture settings. You have personal, sports, multimedia, etc... I noticed that when I had it on my personal settings the shading is there because I changed the brightness, sharpness etc... but when I put it on multimedia, the shading is completely non existent. By the way, I just purchased an xbox 360, and I must say, I am in gaming heaven.

I just got an 8420 last week, and I can verify that it can accept a 720p source and upscale it to 1080i for display.

My previous statement, quoting the Philips website specs, only had to do with display capability. My 8420 will accept a 720p signal, but converts it to 1080i for display, as you found.

Earlier, however, having checked my TV with a DVD player that would play at 480p or 720p, I'd found that on the 720p setting a DVD would throw the TV into blue-screen mode, with no display.

I've since checked the 8420 with my normal LG DVD player set on 720p, and the TV does in fact accept that signal and upconvert to 1080i. The outstanding PQ of the 8420 may be even slightly better on the 720p setting, though it's really hard to tell.

My previous statement, quoting the Philips website specs, only had to do with display capability. My 8420 will accept a 720p signal, but converts it to 1080i for display, as you found.

Earlier, however, having checked my TV with a DVD player that would play at 480p or 720p, I'd found that on the 720p setting a DVD would throw the TV into blue-screen mode, with no display.

I've since checked the 8420 with my normal LG DVD player set on 720p, and the TV does in fact accept that signal and upconvert to 1080i. The outstanding PQ of the 8420 may be even slightly better on the 720p setting, though it's really hard to tell.

harpeth, does this set accept 720p over component?

Another question: has anyone tried PAL? I've heard Philips sets will accept PAL, but it's an undocumented feature. Can anyone confirm this?

harpeth, does this set accept 720p over component?

Another question: has anyone tried PAL? I've heard Philips sets will accept PAL, but it's an undocumented feature. Can anyone confirm this?

Drogulus,

I don't know about component with the 8420; I use HDMI. I do know that my LG tuner/DVD player won't upconvert over component. Mine has the wrong software to do that.

I don't know about PAL connectivity either. Check the Philips website, where they have a list of FAQs posted, or email Philips service. Sorry I'm not much help.

I have a question about the 30PW8420/37 by phillips. I am looking at one of these and also looking at a samsung tsx3082w. I have read both of these threads and still have come to no conclusion. Help me out on which TV to buy it will be one of these two. Seeing as how I'm on a budget.

Being on a budget myself was what led me to the Philips set, especially given the great prices from Philips Outlet online. Check that source out if you want to save money.

I don't know anything about the Samsung unit. The Philips 30PW8420 has proven outstanding for me and my family. Since it doesn't have an internal ATSC tuner, you'll need to buy one separately to be able to receive digital and HD programming. The similar, and more expensive 30PW9100D/9110D, has a built-in tuner. There's another thread about both the 9100 and the 8420. Mine's a refurb that I got in January, and it's been great so far.

PQ is excellent on the 8420, particularly after it's calibrated with a disc like Avia. Live HD programming is so real-looking that it's almost like looking thru a window. Built-in sound at 20W is also good. This set will display at 480i, 480p, and 1080i, while it will also accept a 720p signal which it upconverts to 1080i. It has HDMI, component, and composite inputs. The remote is simple. The TV weighs about 140 pounds.

Hope this helps.

Being on a budget myself was what led me to the Philips set, especially given the great prices from Philips Outlet online. Check that source out if you want to save money.

I don't know anything about the Samsung unit. The Philips 30PW8420 has proven outstanding for me and my family. Since it doesn't have an internal ATSC tuner, you'll need to buy one separately to be able to receive digital and HD programming. The similar, and more expensive 30PW9100D/9110D, has a built-in tuner. There's another thread about both the 9100 and the 8420. Mine's a refurb that I got in January, and it's been great so far.

PQ is excellent on the 8420, particularly after it's calibrated with a disc like Avia. Live HD programming is so real-looking that it's almost like looking thru a window. Built-in sound at 20W is also good. This set will display at 480i, 480p, and 1080i, while it will also accept a 720p signal which it upconverts to 1080i. It has HDMI, component, and composite inputs. The remote is simple. The TV weighs about 140 pounds.

Hope this helps.


Yes it does but I went to bestbuy on my lunch break and looked at both TV's. I really think that I want the built in tuner for HDTV cause it looks spectacular. I don't really know yet guess price will determine which I buy.

Drogulus,

I don't know about component with the 8420; I use HDMI. I do know that my LG tuner/DVD player won't upconvert over component. Mine has the wrong software to do that.

I'm pretty sure you could test it out over component if you have any DVD's that are not copyright protected. I had one of those units breifly, and it did upconvert my Avia disk to 1080i, but it wouldn't for any other movie.

thanks for all the helpful info guys! Now I have a question...

We recently purchaed the 34PW8402 from phillips outlet, and have been mostly very pleased, EXCEPT for a strange phenomenon.

We have noticed what my wife describes as a "swimming" image, especially during dark screens. For instance an actor's eye or mouth will sort of shimmer or swim around a little bit, while the rest of the face doesn't move at all. Not sure the best way really to describe any better than that. It is almost as if parts of the image shift or wobble on screen. Like I said this is most particulary a problem (or at least most noticable) during especially dark scenes. (Such as on Lost when they are running around the jungle at night). The brightness is set relatively low, and if I set it any lower I am afraid I won't be able to see anything during these dark scenes. (Blurry or otherwise!)

Watching SD content over DirecTV with Tivo. I have tried hooking this up with both the S-video and composite cables, with the same problem. (Seems more noticeable with the S-Vid cable, but that could just be a cheap cable I had laying around from who knows when or where). No component out on the Tivo.

I don't know that we've noticed while DVD watching...not that I recall. Sadly we are still just watching DVDs over the playstation 2. (Also not component out...yet. That's my next purchase so I can play Gran Turismo in HD!)

I have the 30PW8420, and have really come to love it. I have it hooked to an OTA HD tuner through component video cables, and have no issue with 720p content (abc, fox). I had some strange picture problems with DVD's in 480p, so I switch back to 480i, and have not noticed the problems any more.


To optimize my picture quality, I played around with a THX optimizer, and could not find a picture I really liked. After considerable time playing with the settings, I found that the "Weak Signal" setting was actually very accurate with the colors and balance on the screen. The problem was that "Weak Signal" is just too dark. So I nudged the brightness on "Weak Signal" up a bit, and left the rest of the settings alone. The picture looks perfect (to me, and my wife agrees). My modified "Weak Signal" became the new "Personal", and it is the best picture setting of the available options. I dropped in Peter Pan (2003), because if it intense use of mood/color lighting towards the end, and then scrolled through the available picture settings. It was almost unwatchable in anything but "Personal" as the colors bled into the objects in the foreground in all of the other settings.

I have noticed recently that the rear S-Video port will sometimes display content in black and white. It will only do this if I have the Gamecube running when I turn the TV on. If I turn the TV off, and then back on, the problem goes away. I don’t see this being a problem for long, as Nintendo is releasing a new console and the component cables should be easily available. After the cube is gone, I see no reason to use the rear S-Video port again.

I'm pretty sure you could test it out over component if you have any DVD's that are not copyright protected. I had one of those units breifly, and it did upconvert my Avia disk to 1080i, but it wouldn't for any other movie.

If I have a chance, Ryan, I'll try that. If I find anything different than what I've posted, I'll update.

I have the 30PW8420, and have really come to love it. I have it hooked to an OTA HD tuner through component video cables, and have no issue with 720p content (abc, fox). I had some strange picture problems with DVD's in 480p, so I switch back to 480i, and have not noticed the problems any more.


To optimize my picture quality, I played around with a THX optimizer, and could not find a picture I really liked. After considerable time playing with the settings, I found that the "Weak Signal" setting was actually very accurate with the colors and balance on the screen. The problem was that "Weak Signal" is just too dark. So I nudged the brightness on "Weak Signal" up a bit, and left the rest of the settings alone. The picture looks perfect (to me, and my wife agrees). My modified "Weak Signal" became the new "Personal", and it is the best picture setting of the available options. I dropped in Peter Pan (2003), because if it intense use of mood/color lighting towards the end, and then scrolled through the available picture settings. It was almost unwatchable in anything but "Personal" as the colors bled into the objects in the foreground in all of the other settings.

I have noticed recently that the rear S-Video port will sometimes display content in black and white. It will only do this if I have the Gamecube running when I turn the TV on. If I turn the TV off, and then back on, the problem goes away. I don’t see this being a problem for long, as Nintendo is releasing a new console and the component cables should be easily available. After the cube is gone, I see no reason to use the rear S-Video port again.


Amen, the 8420 is an excellent set. Even after owning ours for four months now, I'm still awed by the quality of the image that this TV produces. Just about everything on ours is displayed at 1080i. The only issue I've had with 480p is that the display is noticeably coarser than what we get at 1080i.

I haven't tried any of the picture settings that are available with the set, but that's probably a good idea, as my son always increases brightness when he plays a Nintendo game. He then forgets to go back to the original setting.

BTW, my son has both N64 and Gamecube, but prefers N64. He and his buddies like those games better. With the Gamecube, we have one of the Nintendo component cable sets, which produces a really nice image. Before getting this cable set, my son was using the composite inputs, and the image was fine. He never used the S-video input.

I don't think we've used the S-video port on the back at all, though I think I did use the one on the side once for hooking up our camcorder. I had no issue with the side port.

The 30PW8420 is an excellent set for sure.

I've ... checked the 8420 with my normal LG DVD player set on 720p, and the TV does in fact accept that signal and upconvert to 1080i. The outstanding PQ of the 8420 may be even slightly better on the 720p setting, though it's really hard to tell.

This is an update to my earlier post about the 30PW8420's ability to accept a 720p signal and the resulting PQ. I had been running our LG LST-3510A at the 720p setting for a couple of weeks, and getting the resultant upconverted 1080i on the Philips 8420.

Last night I got to looking more closely at a DVD playing on that setting and noticed what I'll call a blockier output of images, when viewed up close. There was also a white outline on one side of people. In mid-movie I switched the tuner over to 1080i and found that the PQ was noticeably smoother and free of the outline at that setting.

I've read here where some folks like the 720p input, but I'm sticking with 1080i from now on.

HDMI input is ok. Analog input is terrible. No audio out. I use a Directv reciever to tune in OTA and satelite and it works fine for that, component input from dvd player is terrible though. This particular set was on clearance from a wholesale club for under 4 bills, so I couldn't resist. I would have been disappointed if I paid more.

HDMI input is ok. Analog input is terrible. No audio out. I use a Directv reciever to tune in OTA and satelite and it works fine for that, component input from dvd player is terrible though. This particular set was on clearance from a wholesale club for under 4 bills, so I couldn't resist. I would have been disappointed if I paid more.

Post the model number of the Philips set you have, so we can compare your results apples-to-apples with those of other users.

Post the model number of the Philips set you have, so we can compare your results apples-to-apples with those of other users.
He posted the model number on his thread title. I have the same set (32PT9100D) that I just bought at Sams for $300, and I am seeing the identicle problem. The DVD components are worse than S-video or even composite.

Can I get a DVD player that converts to 1080i and run that to the digital in(HDMI)?

He posted the model number on his thread title. I have the same set (32PT9100D) that I just bought at Sams for $300, and I am seeing the identicle problem. The DVD components are worse than S-video or even composite.

Can I get a DVD player that converts to 1080i and run that to the digital in(HDMI)?

Sorry I overlooked that.

You might want to check the "New Philips Set 30PW9100D..." thread for comments from 30PW9100D/9110D users. I know many have had trouble with the internal tuner, which may be similar to the one in your set.

I have the 30PW8420, tunerless model. For HD reception and DVD play I use an external LG LST-3510 combo unit, which upscales to 1080i, but only thru HDMI, at least with my unit's software version. Both OTA reception and DVD play are excellent with this unit. There's also a thread on the LG unit in the HD Reception Hardware area.

Just thought I would stop by and say that after 2 years, I still love my Philips 34" widescreen HDTV. I haven't seen a plasma or LCD yet that would tempt me to give it up.

Amen, Pulliamm. I've had my 30PW8420 just under a year now. I'm still amazed at the clarity and color of HD on this set.

A blessed Thanksgiving to all readers of AVS. "Thanks be to God for His unspeakable gift."

I also have the Philips 30pw8420 for about a year and a half now, and I've been very happy with it. The only content I can view in HD though, is though my Xbox 360, since I don't have digital cable. It looks fantastic though in HD. I've just ordered a refurbished Samsung upconverting DVD player and can't wait to try it out through the HDMI.

BlueS2K,

I don't have cable, but I do have an LG combo OTA tuner/DVD player. It pulls in over 20 stations, a lot of them in HD, as clear as can be. The DVD player upscales to 1080i, so the image on the TV is awesome. Football yesterday in HD was amazing to watch.

I spent some time with the Avia calbration DVD this weekend to find my picture is just a hair off center. The whole widescreen image is about 1/8 of an inch to the left(all sources HD and SD). This leaves a small black line on the right of the screen, and a little bit of lost data on the left. I never noticed before. There is no nudge control in the regular menus to move the entire image right (the tilt control is cool, but not what I need).

Does anyone know how to access the service menu, and maybe have a map or explanation for each setting in the service menu. Is there a possible way to correct this. Default settings for the service menu might be helpful as well.


I have the 30PW8420

Hey, blambert,

I think I've read more horror stories than successes with getting into the service menu. I'd suggest you learn to live with it. That doesn't sound like a significant flaw, particularly in light of how much trouble you can get into.

I got an 8420 refurbished from Philips for $380 + tax, which came out to $417 delivered. Great TV I must say, but like Blambert, I've got an issue with the picture being off center (mine's at an angle). I love the TV, especially for the price. Got the HD DVD drive for the 360, and Batman Begins looked excellent. Serenity's on tonight!

luigi,

Congratulations on the 30PW8420 from Philips Outlet. I've had mine just shy of a year now and I'm still wow'd by HD broadcasts. Sounds like the price has dropped a little.

Concerning your issues, first, the tilted picture can be adjusted with a control under, I believe, the "features" menu. Mine was tilted counterclockwise (downhill to the left), so I used the tilt control to level it up. It's fine now.

As to the bowed sides, it's my understanding that this is a common issue with CRTs. I'd highly recommend that you get an Avia calibration disc. These sets are way over-bright when we receive them. The Avia DVD takes you thru all sorts of settings. Bottom line, mine's adjusted so that bowing is only slightly noticeable on very bright subjects, while colors and image are beautiful.

What would it take to make this an official thread for the 30PW8420, and correct the spelling of the word Philips in the Title. (this thread has one to many "L"'s in it), and it doesn't have the model number in the title . Those changes would make it easier for people to find it, and reduce the number of new threads asking questions regarding this model.

We probably would need for darkshier, the original poster, to email one of the board administrators with a request to do what you suggest.

I just wanted to say that I'd been considering this set, the 30PW8420/37B for a long time, and on the advice of everyone here decided to go ahead and get it.

The set arrived this morning, and after hooking it all up and plugging it in, I pressed power and heard the ping degauss noise and it sounded like it was getting ready to start and then it just "clicked" and stopped. It does this every time I try to turn it on; DOA.

The thing is that it looks gorgeous, is in great shape and the box was perfect... just doesn't even turn on. Have to have the service guy come and pick it up which can't happen until "early next week." I want to love this set, it's just kind of silly how many reports of bad sets coming out of the Philips Outlet there are (because in my anecdotal experience, it's true).

At any rate, I'll happily come on and let you all know how the TV is once it's up and running; it's the least I can do for all the excellent information I got here while researching the purchase.

I'm really sorry to hear that your unit isn't working. FWIW, I had a similar problem with the refurbed LG LST-3510A digital tuner that I bought online to go with my 8420. The first 3510A I received had a problem with its built-in DVD player, so I returned it and got a replacement that's been working perfectly for nearly a year now. I hope you'll have the same success with your 30PW8420. Working properly, it produces a beautiful HD image.

So i have a chance to get this TV used for about $200.. The guy has had it for two years now.. Should I jump on it? i'm wanting this TV for my office/gameroom to watch regular SD cable and play my 360 on since I dont want to be using my projector all the time..

Only you can say on that question. $200 sounds like a good price on a set that two years ago sold for $749. I can't say how SD cable will do, because I don't have cable. For my situation, with OTA reception, after nearly two and a half years, my 30PW8420/37 continues to perform like new. The downside is that like all CRTs this set is really heavy and takes up a lot of space.

Sorry to raise the dead here, but I have Philips widescreen TV 34PW8502 that has a great picture, but every once in a while, it just dies. And the power button starts blinking (prob a code). Anyone have some insight to this problem and solution?

Pretty much same issues mentioned http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10683643#post10683643