The last thread was closed because people posted prices.

DO NOT POST PRICES OR DIRECT LINKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Read the rules and let's keep this one from getting locked)

Okay, I did a search and found no other threads about this plasma specifically so hopefully it's the only one.

Doing some searching on plasmas and it sounds as though LOTs of people are having great luck with the Maxent MX-42X3 42" plasma. I'm in the market for a larger plasma (three actually) and was reading about the Maxent when I found some info about a new version of the MX-50X2 that was supposed to be along the same lines as the wildly popular 42" version but larger.

There was some mention to Best Buy being the first place that's gonna have it which is where I was shopping plasmas anyway so I went back in today to do some more research and here's what we were able to find:

1) Scheduled release date is Oct 23rd and he said they might have it a week or so prior to this but this was the official 'street date' that they planned to have it on display/available for sale.

2) Retail price is $2,999 which makes this one HECK of a sweet deal if it's comparable to it's little brother the 42x3 as it would rival the PQ of the Panasonic in this size which is $1k more (retail vs. retail).

3) The Best Buy internal product skew is: 7335485

4) Best Buy is not doing pre-orders for the Xbox 360

So, feel free to add any info or opinions to this thread that you have and hopefully within a couple weeks we'll have reviews to add to it. If it's anything like the 42x3 then I'll be taking home three.

Note: This is NOT the 50x2 that's been sold at CostCo for quite some time now but the all new 50x3 that will be a Best Buy exclusive (at least through the holiday season).

Edit 11/11: Dimensions:

The stand at the widest part (slight taper to it to the front and rear) is 31.75"

Width w/o speakers is 49.25" and width with speakers is 56.75"

The box is 15"x54"x38" and those are all rounded up as the measurements were slightly under full inches

Here's what the 50x3 looks like:
http://www.maxentusa.com/uploads/images/full/55.jpg

The older 50x2:
http://www.maxentusa.com/uploads/images/full/49.jpg

Update 11/7: I took this picture at Best Buy last week with my camera phone. Sorry for the terrible quality but better pictures will follow:

http://home.comcast.net/~jeremyhelling/Maxent50x3.jpg

These pics are courtesey of TJ22

http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150128.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150098.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150099.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150101.JPG

More on from TJ22 on post #'s 67, 69 & 70

Here's the link to the official pic/info from Maxent. Looks like the contrast and brightness are both considerably better than the previous 50x2 and more on line with those stats on the 42x3 but unlike the 42x3 the speakers are detachable (yea!) from the monitor.
Click me. (http://www.maxentusa.com/_coreModules/eShopping/productDetail.aspx?productMasterID=22)


Here's the .pdf file from Maxent with even more specs:
Click me. (http://www.maxentusa.com/uploads/files/221.pdf)

I would strongly suggest that those waiting for the 50x3 exercise caution and study the 50x3's components prior to purchasing (especially at BB). As soon as one is available on display, follow the instructions I posted in the 42x3 thread and try to deterimine the origin of the plasma glass as well as electronics. It is very easy to do. Maxent seems to use a variety of suppliers for parts some quite obviously better than others (as can be seen in the wild variation between their 42x3 and 42xm11).

I would strongly suggest that those waiting for the 50x3 exercise caution and study the 50x3's components prior to purchasing (especially at BB). As soon as one is available on display, follow the instructions I posted in the 42x3 thread and try to deterimine the origin of the plasma glass as well as electronics. It is very easy to do. Maxent seems to use a variety of suppliers for parts some quite obviously better than others (as can be seen in the wild variation between their 42x3 and 42xm11).

Very good advice. Hopefully we can make this a group effort and figure this one out quicker than we did the 42x3.

Just wanted to see if anyone has got a chance to check this out yet? Keep us updated.

it is not on BB's website yet....

...It is now.

I stopped by my local Best Buy today since I was having lunch in the neighborhood and figured I would just stop to check real quick. I walked in and right where the 50" Panasonic used to be was a brand spankin new Maxent 50x3 in it's place. Coincidence???

I had someone with me who could care less about staring at a TV for more than ten seconds so I couldn't stay too long. Next to it was a Zenith 50" plasma and I REALLY wish they would have put the Panasonic next to it as that would be ideal. But, they didn't and I didn't get a chance to see if I could talk to my manager buddy and have them put them side by side to compare. Initial impressions w/o touching settings were that it blew the Zenith next to it out of the water on the same HD feed. The colors were more realistic than the Zenith and the contrast was also noticeably better. The case looks good and the fact that the speakers are removable is awesome. It was priced a few hundred below MSRP and this makes it a VERY competitive price with screens considerably smaller in size and lower PQ. I plan to check it out when I have some more time.

I would highly advise anyone who is interested to go to your local Best Buy and see it for yourself. I would like to hear what those with a more picky eye than myself have to say about it.

Waiting for this one also, ok, so maybe the Vizio is out.
This could be the next one I would be interested in.
Of course if the 8UK was more available, I would probally go with that.

Need to make a decision within the next 2 weeks. :o

So, can any of you BB people take a peak into the guts of this set and tell whose brand is inside?

If one breaks im sure we could lol. My store just got this set in recently and the picture is great! i actually prefer it to the panasonic. For one its a sharper image (not exagerrated sharpness but actually sharper and clearer) and its also a lot more realistic on the colors) if the employee discount on this set was just a tiny bit more it would definitely be mine!

I don't see it on Best Buy's site yet...is it only instore right now?

Yes it is. But in store i know we have it for less then MSRP ;)

maybe its just me, but although I think this is probably a great set, I'm hesitant to get it at BB for fear of future problems. The Maxent brand isn't exactly a household name brand, and the piece of mind of getting the 42x3 at Costco is very reassuring. A safety blanket, so to speak, if anything goes wrong in the future. I don't feel that comfort at BB, and I won't spend hundreds of dollars for a EW. At that point, I'd probably just go for the panny 8UK.

So, for me at least, I'll probably wait it out and see if it shows up at Costco in the next few months..

maybe its just me, but although I think this is probably a great set, I'm hesitant to get it at BB for fear of future problems. The Maxent brand isn't exactly a household name brand, and the piece of mind of getting the 42x3 at Costco is very reassuring. A safety blanket, so to speak, if anything goes wrong in the future. I don't feel that comfort at BB, and I won't spend hundreds of dollars for a EW. At that point, I'd probably just go for the panny 8UK.

So, for me at least, I'll probably wait it out and see if it shows up at Costco in the next few months..

As far as TVs go, 99% of the time if they fail it's right away. Chances are if it doesn't fail right away (and within the Best Buy exchange window) you're good for years unless you use it for a dart board.

maybe its just me, but although I think this is probably a great set, I'm hesitant to get it at BB for fear of future problems. The Maxent brand isn't exactly a household name brand, and the piece of mind of getting the 42x3 at Costco is very reassuring. A safety blanket, so to speak, if anything goes wrong in the future. I don't feel that comfort at BB, and I won't spend hundreds of dollars for a EW. At that point, I'd probably just go for the panny 8UK.

So, for me at least, I'll probably wait it out and see if it shows up at Costco in the next few months..

I fully agree Gomo - it'll be the 42x3 from Costco for me. Now I just have to get it this week before they totally sell out!

What is Bestbuy's exchange window?

Jeremy - are you just throwing around a 99% number, or is it a solid number? I know that is the general trend, that if things go wrong, they do it fairly quickly. But even considering that, the diff in price between the 42 and 50 is, right now, just not something I can justify.

(doesn't mean I won't go to BB to check it out, though!!)

What is Bestbuy's exchange window?

I believe it to be 30 days on something like this. Double check your local BB though to find out for sure. They have company policies but it can vary from store to store as far as what managers will stretch.

Jeremy - are you just throwing around a 99% number, or is it a solid number? I know that is the general trend, that if things go wrong, they do it fairly quickly. But even considering that, the diff in price between the 42 and 50 is, right now, just not something I can justify.

(doesn't mean I won't go to BB to check it out, though!!)

That number is straight out of my ass. I'm basing it on the many TVs I've purchased as well as the number of TVs my friends/family have purchased and the word of my buddies who manage or work at Best Buy's, Circuit City's and local electronic places as well.

For me being used to a 65" TV as our main viewing TV I think that 50" is about as far down as I'll be comfortable with and 42" (while only 8" smaller) is just too much of a downsize for us. If you're going from similar or smaller then I would probably suggest going with the 42x3 as well. I also prefer the look of the case on the 50x3 and the ability to detach the speakers as well.

Day two: I went back down by myself so I could take some more time to look at it. To me it looks great but one thing I noticed is the whites don't seem as white as the Zenith next to it. They had more of a grey tint than the brilliant white of the Zenith next to it. Now, this could be on par with the unrealistic colors the Zenith produces in comparison and if that's the trade-off I'll take realistic colors and muted whites over blinding whites and fake looking colors any day of the week. I messed with the video settings slightly but couldn't seem to get them to brighten up any. I'm sure someone who knows what they're doing could do a better job and I plan to run DVE and Avia when I get it home. It might not even be noticeable once it's not next to another TV running the same signal for comparison. I guess this is part of the decision making process anyway by comparing them at the store so check it out yourself and post what you think. I would love to see what others have to say about this set.

were you able to check inside the back panels and see if it is panny parts?



ps - "That number is straight out of my ass" - I like your honesty!!

were you able to check inside the back panels and see if it is panny parts?

Nope. There was nobody around to help me the whole time I was there and it was up against a wall on a shelf at an angle. The shelf wasn't far enough out that I could just rotate it so it's gonna take some doin and some store help to get it down. More than likely I'll have one in my house before I'm able to check part numbers at the store.

ps - "That number is straight out of my ass" - I like your honesty!!

That's how I roll man. :cool:

I went to my local BestBuy about 30 minutes ago and they didn't have it yet. They had plenty of the MX-42XM11 and the EDTV 42" plasmas. One of the MX-42XM11 was sitting on the ground as an "open box" item. I peeked around back at the top right corner and saw that the PDP inside is marked "LG electronics".

So Maxent seems to be choosing name brand plasma panels for their various models. Some are obviously better/worse than others. You must determine what components are inside the 50X3.

What the deal with price posting? I posted a thread asking why prices could not be posted and it was apparantly deleted. What is the issue here with comparing prices. A forum is only as good as ALL the information allowed. Is this a vendor site?

What the deal with price posting? I posted a thread asking why prices could not be posted and it was apparantly deleted. What is the issue here with comparing prices. A forum is only as good as ALL the information allowed. Is this a vendor site?

Please read the forum rules. If you want to rock the boat after reading them please do not choose this thread to do it because I already had one 50x3 thread get locked. I wish we could post the best prices we found but all we're able to do is post retail and even then make sure you explain that it's retail pricing. No direct links to vendors either.

It's just the way of the beast and there's TONS of good info in this forum so just take the good w/the bad.

Stopped at a NJ BB yesterday. Not only wasn't it on display, the sales dude couldn't even find it in their system, and he was looking for quite a while......

It was not in a BB in Houston. It was not in their system either. So, just where are these units? We have to find one before we can see whose guts are inside.

W. Nyack NY store had the shelf tag up with the same previously alluded to price, but the CSR had no idea when the TV will actually be on the sales floor.....

when I went to the Springfield, NJ BB, they had room for it on the floor, but the space was still empty. The guy looked it up on the computer and told me the price. Said it was for delivery only at that point, and probably within a week would be in the store.

and the Union, NJ Costco still has the 42x3 if you guys were still curious. i'm sure you could call them...

and the Union, NJ Costco still has the 42x3 if you guys were still curious. i'm sure you could call them...

Wrong post dude... this is the 50x3 thread. ;)

Ordered this in store this morning. It will be in on Nov. 2. I will post some info then.

Review coming tomorrow.

Review coming tomorrow.

...waiting. ;)

I am picking it up shortly. I will try to post a review tonight.

I picked it up. I would post a review but I have never had a big screen, so I dont know what to post. I will definitely take photo. What are some things to put in the review?

Also how can I tell what the internal panel is? I was hoping it was a panasonic like the 42x3.

Also how can I tell what the internal panel is?

Grab a flashlight and look through the vent holes in the back. Do you see any markings or company names?

I am not saying for sure it is a panny but it has the following number tnpa3562 which the only result on google was panasonic.

I think this is the panel number: MC127H27D8

I got no search results.

If it has a transparent logo like fox is that ok to watch in the first 100 hours?

Good detective work so far. Do you see any large "M" markings? The M stands for Matsushita Corp., Panasonic's parent company.

I don't think any short-term use of the PDP would be problematic. But, to be safe, read the FAQ about "burn in" procedures.

By the way;

Manufacturer Part#: TNPA3562
Manufacturer: PANASONIC (MATSUSHITA)
Description: PC BOARD

Are there any other internal numbers or symbols that you can see?

I has an M like the bottom left image. And it is made in japan june 2005.

EDIT: I removed the image, jeremy posted it below.

I don't think any short-term use of the PDP would be problematic. But, to be safe, read the FAQ about "burn in" procedures.

By the way;

Manufacturer Part#: TNPA3562
Manufacturer: PANASONIC (MATSUSHITA)
Description: PC BOARD

Are there any other internal numbers or symbols that you can see?

Looking good so far....

For those who have this set home, what are your initial impressions?

I has an M like the bottom left image. And it is made in japan june 2005.
http://www.angelfire.com/electronic2/rch/images/logos/matsushita.jpg

Picture doesn't work for me.

Did you intend to post the Angelfire logo? While I can't say for sure, it certainly is possible that this Maxent is also using Panasonic glass. I'm sure others in this forum can help us find out. In the MC127H27D8 part #, you can't help but wonder if the "MC" stands for Matsushita Corp.

Enjoy your new PDP and keep us informed!

Did you intend to post the Angelfire logo?

No, he was using AngelFire to host the image and they don't allow linking.

I was able to get it to work and saved it to my own host. Here's the image he was trying to post:

http://home.comcast.net/~amandahelling/MaxentMatsushitaLogo.jpg

Picture looks very good to me but I havent been able to do a 720p or 1020i signal. I think the dvd player I have only puts out a 420p and my xbox games seem to only do 480p or 480i.

Did you intend to post the Angelfire logo? While I can't say for sure, it certainly is possible that this Maxent is also using Panasonic glass. I'm sure others in this forum can help us find out. In the MC127H27D8 part #, you can't help but wonder if the "MC" stands for Matsushita Corp.

Enjoy your new PDP and keep us informed!

The first two letters "MC" of the PDP panel model designation most assuredly means that the 50x3 plasma panel is a Matsushita/Panasonic part just as seen with the Maxent 42x3 plasma. The letters "MC" are also printed on the plasma panels contained in the current generation Panasonic-brand plasma televisions.

As you all get your hands on the 50X3's please calibrate them using DVE, Avia, THX opt, or other method and give us a report. I am particularly interested in hearing the opinions of anyone who owns or has owned a 42X3 or a Panasonic-brand plasma in addition to the 50X3 to discuss the differences in picture quality.

Keep in mind the BB 30 day price guarantee. :cool:

Still waiting for the reviews...

I am willing to post a review but I am not sure what to right. I believe the picture is great and it is a panny tube. But this is the first big screen/HD I have owned.

I need some assistance on posting a review. What info do you want? I can post some picts. LMK.

I am willing to post a review but I am not sure what to right. I believe the picture is great and it is a panny tube. But this is the first big screen/HD I have owned.

I need some assistance on posting a review. What info do you want? I can post some picts. LMK.

You could start with some of these:
1) How is the case design and remote?
2) In your opinion how do DVDs look? standard TV? HDTV?
3) On opening/closing credits when white text appears on a black background does the level of black change?
4) When there are images of solid color like blue sky or undersea do the blue areas look smooth or like they are made up of bands of color.
5) Do each of the inputs "remember" the aspect ratio settings when you switch back and forth between them?
6) Is the overall picture on any input biased toward green or red?
7) Do high definition images look "lifelike" or over-exaggerated?
8) Are the menus easy to use?
9) Are there any menus or features that you feel are missing?
10) Does the set make any buzzing sounds or produce excess heat?
11) Are the blacks very dark or somewhat grey?
12) Post some photos of standard tv, dvd, hdtv.

I ordered this TV from Best Buy yesterday. It's scheduled to arrive Monday, so I'll provide a review of it on Tuesday.

I ordered this TV from Best Buy yesterday. It's scheduled to arrive Monday, so I'll provide a review of it on Tuesday.

We'll believe it when we see it. :D :p

1) How is the case design and remote?

I like the case. It is silver with detachable side speakers, and black in back. It has 2 sets on components, 2 sets of composite(each with S-video, 1xhdmi, 1xrgb, and a serial connection. The remote is a little flimsy and I really don't like that it has a slide door at bottom because you need those buttons quite often.


2) In your opinion how do DVDs look? standard TV? HDTV?

Standard DVDs look great. SDTV is pretty damn good. I havent got my HD service up yet.

3) On opening/closing credits when white text appears on a black background does the level of black change?

The black level looks even during credits.

4) When there are images of solid color like blue sky or undersea do the blue areas look smooth or like they are made up of bands of color.

I did notice any bands of color.

5) Do each of the inputs "remember" the aspect ratio settings when you switch back and forth between them?

It doesnt remember aspect ratio but it does remember picture settings.

6) Is the overall picture on any input biased toward green or red?

I notice no bias whatsoever.

7) Do high definition images look "lifelike" or over-exaggerated?

N/A

8) Are the menus easy to use?

Menu system is a little clumsy but straight forward.

9) Are there any menus or features that you feel are missing?

The features seem to all be there except I dont like the fact that there are only 4 picture setting: user, cinema, vivid and standard, you cannot create your own but you can change the settings in user.

10) Does the set make any buzzing sounds or produce excess heat?

There seems to be no excessive heat, and it is passively cooled. If you put your head behind the screen there is a slight buzzing but you cant hear it in front only in back.

11) Are the blacks very dark or somewhat grey?

The blacks are extremely dark, just about matches the black on the bezel.

12) Post some photos of standard tv, dvd, hdtv.

I have some photos, I need someone to host them. Contact me on the PM they are ready to be uploaded.

I am willing to answer any other questions as well as take some more photos. This is a great set with extreme value.

I have some photos, I need someone to host them. Contact me on the PM they are ready to be uploaded.

There are many free image hosting services. I sometimes use:
http://imageshack.us/

TJ22, Thanks for taking the time to post these answers. I too am looking at the Maxent.

3) On opening/closing credits when white text appears on a black background does the level of black change?

The black level looks even during credits.


Please edit this statement as the operative word in the sentence is missing so it could go either way. I hope you left out 'great' or 'remarkable' as opposed to 'bad' or 'grayish' :D

We'll believe it when we see it. :D :p

This should tide you over until then ;)

I smudged the prices since they weren't MSRP.


http://www.adam-snow.com/tv/plasma/maxent.gif

This should tide you over until then ;)

I smudged the prices since they weren't MSRP.


http://www.adam-snow.com/tv/plasma/maxent.gif

No, I believe that you bought it. It was a shot at those who said the would post reviews on 'x' day and then didn't follow through... at least not right away. So, we believe you'll post a review when we see said review.

Please edit this statement as the operative word in the sentence is missing so it could go either way. I hope you left out 'great' or 'remarkable' as opposed to 'bad' or 'grayish' :D

Motegi asked if the black levels change, and TJ22 said the level remains even.

No, I believe that you bought it. It was a shot at those who said the would post reviews on 'x' day and then didn't follow through... at least not right away. So, we believe you'll post a review when we see said review.


Ahh, gotcha, I thought it was a shot at the fact that I bought it. Today I setup my new stand and hooked up all my components, so it's sitting there waiting for a TV to arrive.

We'll believe it when we see it. :D :p


Thats was intended as a shot at me, but that is fine because I didnt post a review when I said I would. Sorry.

TJ22/koach,

Can either of you post some photos of the unit?

Thanks.

TJ22/koach,

Can either of you post some photos of the unit?

Thanks.

Check my first post again. I added the photo I took with my crappy cell phone camera last week. Soon as I get my Mitsu 65" CRT HDTV sold I'll snag one of these (if not sooner) and post up much better pictures.

If any of you can post up pics of the back or inside the vents (model #'s) that would be stellar. I'll even edit my first post to have all the pics right up front so people don't have to dig through the whole thread for them.

I just checked my local best buy, no luck yet. I'm really interested in this set, so I'll have to keep my eye out for it. Thanks for the heads up.

Alright the internal label (I tried multiple times to get a pict, couldnt) so here is what it says

Line 1: (That M logo) M Jun 2005
Line 2: MC127H27D8
Line 3: Serial no. XXXXXXXXX
Line 4: Ve. 150V, Vsus 178V
Line 5: Made in Japan TQFC891

Here are some picts:


http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150128.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150098.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150099.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150101.JPG

Any chance you can resize those down?? I'll move them to page one as soon as you do. Thanks.

http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150109.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150111.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150112.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150113.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150114.JPG

http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150103.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150104.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150106.JPG
http://users.adelphia.net/~tejj/images/P4150108.JPG

TJ22,

Wow! The screenshots of Robots look amazing! The remote and menus are the exact same as with the 42X3.

Thanks for the photos. They are nice. Two questions:

1.) Are the speakers removable?

2.) You have a shot there of 4:3 tv mode. What stretch options does the set have (didn't see a photo of this in the menu) and does it do a good job with standard definition tv (ie. does it keep the center of the picture and just stretch the edges)? In general how does sd tv look?

3.) In the audio/closed caption setup, does this have the option to display the closed captions when the mute button is pressed? For example.. when you mute the sound, the cc displays.

Thanks.

Jim

Greetings, this is my first post to AVS Forum. I have been looking at 50" plasma TVs for several weeks now, and spent a couple of hours this afternoon at BB and UE. I've been to every b&m electronics store in Phoenix, as well as Costco, so I've seen quite a number of different sets. Today was the first time I ever noticed the MX-50PX3. In fact, what caught my eye was the shelf tag - WOW. The set was shelved next to several other 50" PDPs, so I spent some time staring at them all.

Given the environment (subject TV sitting at knee height on the bottom shelf of a display rack in an electronics store) and source material (the store's HD demo loop), it's hard to draw any detailed conclusions. But what I can say is that the color and movement on the Maxent looked very comparable to the neighboring sets (a Philips 50PF9630A, a Toshiba 50HP95, an LG 50PX4DR, and a Samsung HPR5052). One thing I did notice was that the Maxent's picture seemed to be a bit more "crisp" than the Philips directly above it. In a segment of the loop that contained fine lines or small text, the Philips picture was blurry. but I think it may have been over-adjusted WRT brightness, contrast, etc.

The Maxent is a nice looking set. The speakers and stand are removable, which is cool. I looked around for the remote, with no joy. The menu system can be driven using the front panel buttons, and works well.

Up until now I thought I wanted a fully-integrated plasma television (HD tuners, CableCard, TV Guide, etc.). I have given some thought to going the commercial monitor route, but by the time I buy interface blades, speakers (I have a decent 5.1 system, but I don't like my kids having to fire it up just to watch Sponge Bob), and a stand/mount, it just seems like less hassle to by a full-on TV. The Maxent, though, with its removable speakers and stand and full complement of inputs might be a decent alternative, and at a price that's hard not to like.

1.) Are the speakers removable?

Yes. This was already answered along with MANY other questions. If you're truly interested take the time to read this whole thread and then post up questions that weren't answered. I appreciate people keeping the conversation going but let's try to keep the questions asked to only one time to keep the thread clean. Thanks.

Jer,

I've followed the thread from the day you posted it :) Looking back, I do see that you mentioned the speakers are detachable. My other questions still stand though as those have not been answered.

Jer,

I've followed the thread from the day you posted it :) Looking back, I do see that you mentioned the speakers are detachable. My other questions still stand though as those have not been answered.

Thanks for your continued support and no... they have not been answered which is why I didn't quote them. :p

I'm pretty stoked to get mine man. I can't wait until I sell my Mitsu and may not even wait. I might have to pick it up this week & put it in the guest room or something for now. :cool:

TJ22/koach,

Can either of you post some photos of the unit?

Thanks.

I plan on taking some photos tonight of it. I'm not going to wall mount it until I'm sure I want to keep it, so it will be on a stand. I'll take shots of it off, with a high def. feed, and analog cable.

I just checked my local best buy, no luck yet. I'm really interested in this set, so I'll have to keep my eye out for it. Thanks for the heads up.


Just an FYI, my BestBuy didn't have it on display either, but when I asked a salesman, he checked the computer, found out the floor model was in the warehouse int he back, and went out and got it and hooked it up.

I know this question is fairly verboten, but what is the MSRP of this unit, and what "price range" is Best Buy selling it for (if we can post that; if not, sorry. Maybe PM it to me?) Are there any other B&M* stores that are supposed to be getting it, like Circuit City or another store besides Best Buy?

I was seriously considering the 42X3 based on price, but the 50" just looks...more impressive. :p If it's not TOO much more, I'd probably go for that. Especially with Black Friday coming up, hopefully best Buy does their 10% or 15% off TV sale <fingers crossed>. :cool:

* B&M = Brick & Mortar, meaning an actual store, as opposed to a website.

Thanks for the photos. They are nice. Two questions:

1.) Are the speakers removable?

2.) You have a shot there of 4:3 tv mode. What stretch options does the set have (didn't see a photo of this in the menu) and does it do a good job with standard definition tv (ie. does it keep the center of the picture and just stretch the edges)? In general how does sd tv look?

3.) In the audio/closed caption setup, does this have the option to display the closed captions when the mute button is pressed? For example.. when you mute the sound, the cc displays.

Thanks.

Jim

1) Yes.
2) 16:9, 4:3, Panarama, Zoom1 & Zoom2.
3) I am not sure.

I know this question is fairly verboten, but what is the MSRP of this unit, and what "price range" is Best Buy selling it for (if we can post that; if not, sorry. Maybe PM it to me?) Are there any other B&M* stores that are supposed to be getting it, like Circuit City or another store besides Best Buy?

I was seriously considering the 42X3 based on price, but the 50" just looks...more impressive. :p If it's not TOO much more, I'd probably go for that. Especially with Black Friday coming up, hopefully best Buy does their 10% or 15% off TV sale <fingers crossed>. :cool:

* B&M = Brick & Mortar, meaning an actual store, as opposed to a website.

MSRP is $2999.00. The forum rules prohibit posting retail prices, but I'm sure if you PMd or emailed someone who has bought one, they could tell you.

And as of now, the TV is exclusive to Best Buy.

I have to say... I was at BB looking at screens and just evaluted the detail and quality of the pictures first. My eyes kept going back to only 1 or two units... and as I looked down I saw "Maxent"??? hmmm... but looking a little farther, I looked at the price and couldn't believe it.

I am one that 'never' one that buys off brands... so I am really torn because the picture is awesome from what I did see compared to others around it.

I think I am going back today and give it the 30-day whirl... hopefully it doesn't crap out on me in a couple years.

Ok... I just purchased it during lunch and had to bring some buddies along to also give their opionion of the PQ displayed. They all agreed that brightness, whites and PQ was good and actually even better then the units nearby.

The only inventory they have is the demo unit, so I will pick mine up on the 11th. Of course the real test will be at home with SD, HDTV, DVD... etc and not the BB demo trailers.

MSRP is $2999.00. The forum rules prohibit posting retail prices, but I'm sure if you PMd or emailed someone who has bought one, they could tell you.

And as of now, the TV is exclusive to Best Buy.Ah...well, $2,999 is my target point, though I'd prefer to get there with tax included. i wish Costco was gettign it soon, as I prefer their return policy. But I would guess that Best Buy is selling it for less than MSRP, which is always a good thing, and if they have the 10% or 15% of coupon for TVs soon (maybe before or after Black Friday?) that would make the deal irrestible to me.

I'm going to go to Best Buy in the enxt day or three to check it out and see if they have any... :p

Trucktrail: The reason the Maxent looks so good is that it uses Panasonic parts, so it's comparable to the Panasonic model in term of picture quality.

Trucktrail: The reason the Maxent looks so good is that it uses Panasonic parts, so it's comparable to the Panasonic model in term of picture quality.

Yes I like that info... that takes care of the panel quality. I now want to see what the up/down converter chip can do, in terms of quality for the various different formats.

Also, I should give more specifics on my initial comparison. I find, more data is always better when trying to make a decsion.

The MX-50X3 was in the upper left shelf and immediatedly to the right was the 50" Toshiba. The Toshiba was good but 'definitely' not as clear and crisp. Kitty corner below was the Samsung 50" and it was probably the closest in terms of sharpness but still not as vibrant or bright. Lastly directly under the MX-50X3 was the 50" LG and the fuzz and colors were truly sad next to the Maxent. No way would I spend money on that.

Anyways, this is all my personal opinion of course and was in relation to the store's config settings not mine my own.

Also, the Panasonic 50" was at the head of the aisle so I couldn't compare them directly next to one another... but in jumping from one foot to the other I could not see any difference in PQ or brightness.

Trying to decide between these two models. This is my understanding of the differences:

42x3 vs. 50x3

Size: 42" vs. 50"
Resolution: 1024x768 vs. 1366x768 (but both are 16:9)
Brightness: 1,000 vs. 900
Price: Of course
Speakers: Integrated vs. Detachable
Retailer: Costco vs. Best Buy


Are there any other major differences? It seems confirmed that the internals are the same high-quality Panasonic ones and the menus and remote are the same.

Alright the internal label (I tried multiple times to get a pict, couldnt) so here is what it says

Line 1: (That M logo) M Jun 2005
Line 2: MC127H27D8
Line 3: Serial no. XXXXXXXXX
Line 4: Ve. 150V, Vsus 178V
Line 5: Made in Japan TQFC891.


The M logo with the circle around it is Matsushita. This is Panasonic's parent company which is located in Osaka, Japan. So now it looks like Maxent is using the Panasonic glass also.

Well, I posted this before reading the whole thread. It looks like this was already verified on page 2.

Anyone know where I can get remote codes for this thing?

I ordered mine at Best Buy this evening! They said it should be here by Thursday. :D

I have 4 posts...and I need 5 to post a link. A very IMPORTANT link for people who bought this or are going to in the next week or two!

But since I need to make a decent post, any helpful hints for a new HDTV plasma screen owner? :confused:

I have 4 posts...and I need 5 to post a link. A very IMPORTANT link for people who bought this or are going to in the next week or two!

But since I need to make a decent post, any helpful hints for a new HDTV plasma screen owner? :confused:

Yeah, post the link up.

Be SURE that it's not a direct seller link or a price link. This thread will be locked and it has FAR too much good info to get it locked. Please read the forum rules before posting links or prices.

OK, this is muy 6th post...hopefully this works.

And here's a helpful coupon for you guys:

Best Buy 10% off a single item when you sign up for Best Buy Reward Zone EXPIRES 11/21 (http://emailinfo.bestbuy.com/P/v3/CouponWrapper.asp?E=4294;866681;574633381;1;02&R=T1_CPN_50147&A=1007&ci=50147)

That's right! Sign up for Best Buy Reward Zone (costs $9.99), and you not only save "a few hundred", you get back $75 or so in Best Buy Reward Zone coupons!

Hope the mods don't get mad, I'm just trying to give back and help out this forum. I have the notion that I'll be spending a lot of time here!

Also, some people might want to check out the FatWallet.com forums thread (search for 50X3) about this deal.

I can't wait for Thursday to get here!!! :p


Please remove the $250 from your post ASAP before this thread gets locked. Also, the other link you posted may or may not infringe on the rules so please remove it as well.

Mods please edit it for him or allow him to change w/o locking this thread. There's lots of useful specs and I would have to see it get locked. Thanks.

jeremy: Done. My apologies.

Mods: again, I apologize if posting the amount people save with the coupon was a no-no.

Just trying to be helpful. :o

Anyone know where I can get remote codes for this thing?

The FAQs at the Maxent site suggests that codes for Sampo, Magnavox Philips etc... could be used on your remote. These codes might or migh NOT work with your specific remotes, although people have reported success with them.

Another way to get your All in One or Radio Shack remotes to work for Maxent is to use the JP1 programming connector on those remotes.

The easiest way is to buy a Logitech-Harmony and use their data base.

The remotes for the 42X3 and the 50X3 are the same.

;)

Is this model available yet, and where?(50")

The FAQs at the Maxent site suggests that codes for Sampo, Magnavox Philips etc... could be used on your remote. These codes might or migh NOT work with your specific remotes, although people have reported success with them.

Another way to get your All in One or Radio Shack remotes to work for Maxent is to use the JP1 programming connector on those remotes.

The easiest way is to buy a Logitech-Harmony and use their data base.

The remotes for the 42X3 and the 50X3 are the same.

;)

I searched the forums and found a lot of people who had success programming their remote to work with the 42X3. I even found a few people with the same exact remote as me. Unfortunately, when I tried those codes on my 50X3, they didn't work. I tried every code I found on here, as well as the code search. None of them worked at all.

I'll probably have to buy a universal remote that can learn functions from another remote. i was never able to get my universal remote to control my receiver or dvd player either, so getting a new remote is overdue

Is this model available yet, and where?(50")

It is only available at Best Buy

Thanks, I'll check the one in Sarasota.

I'll probably have to buy a universal remote that can learn functions from another remote. i was never able to get my universal remote to control my receiver or dvd player either, so getting a new remote is overdueOne of the best "universal" remotes I have is the x10 Universal 5-in-1 Learning Remote (http://www.x10.com/products/x10_ur74a.htm). The price of $50 for it sux; I bought my first one a few years back when they were on sale for $9.99, and I bought 6 more last year when they were buy 1, get 5 free (making it $8.33 each, sicne the "buy one" cost regular price of $49.99.) I still have 3 or 4 of them that have never been used. The best feature is the ability to "learn" codes from just about any remote, and control the functions. It even controls the power (but not the volume control, darnit) to my Logitech Z-680 5.1 surround sound speakers. eBay usually has them for around $20.

Plus, I use the x10 FireCracker kit to control my lights, so it's very handy. ;)

Yeah, the Logitech Harmony is nice and all, but way too much for me. I'll stick with the x10 remote unless I can find a REALLY good deal on the Harmony.

Thanks, I'll check the one in Sarasota.They don't have any (I'm in St. Pete!) When I ordered mine last night, we looked up inventory in all of Florida. There's only ONE, in Naples.

Hard decision, consider this is panny glass, what generation, what electronics? The Vizio, while not Panny glass, has a track record, mostly good to very good reviews by pros and buyers. Remember, not all Panny glass rebadged units had good reps, ie. Optoma.

OK, here is my review as promised. Let me first start off by saying that I have never owned a plasma TV, nor viewed one outside of a retailer's showroom. I currently own a Toshiba 65" RP CRT HDTV. To me, the picture quality on that TV is perfect in terms of no compression, jaggies, etc. Sure, you can't watch it from an angle or on a bright sunny day, but I think the picture itself looks the most realistic. It doesn't look digitized or pixelated like the digital sets (LCD and DLP) do.

When I first turned the TV on, I was right in front of it. Immediately I noticed that I could see what appeared to be slight compression of the picture, especially in the dark areas. However, after doing a quick picture tune (brightness and contrast to 50, color to 22, sharpness and tint to 0), that was 99% eliminated. Once I moved back to the couch, which is about 9.5-10 feet away, the picture looked perfect and I couldn't see what I was seeing up close. I suspect once I have time to fine tune this with my AVIA DVD, it will improve even more.

After watching an HD channel for about 15 minutes, I began to realize how much my old TV set was suffering by not being very bright and having bad viewing angles. This picture was truly better overall. The colors were richer, without being torchy, the picture was considerably brighter, even with the brightness and contrast turned down, and the sharpness was very precise and crisp. On my RP CRT set, setting the sharpness to zero causes the image to be blurry, so I have to keep it around 40. On this set, it was set to 0, where it should be, and looks fantastic.





1) How is the case design and remote?


My only complaint about the design is the built in stand. It doesn't have enough padding underneath, and when I slid it around to plug my components in, it scratched my wood cabinet that it sits on. Fortunately, a wood marker fixed that. But the padding needs to be thicker. This will be a non-issue once I wall mount it. Other than that, the design is very solid, and very beautiful. The remote is very solid, with my only complaint being the sliding door on the bottom. I wish they had just left off the door, as I need access to those buttons on a semi-regular basis. But, that's very minor.


2) In your opinion how do DVDs look? standard TV? HDTV?


I only got a chance to watch a DVD briefly, but the picture seemed as good as a 720p feed I watched from Fox. Vibrant colors, bright picture, no jaggies or visible compression.

Standard TV looks as expected. Vibrant colors, bright picture, but being that it is an analog picture, you see some distortion. Setting the DNR to high and the sharpness to 0 greatly improved this. I will say that analog on this looks better than on my Toshiba RP CRT.

As far as HDTV, when I first turned the TV on, I was right in front of it. Immediately I noticed that I could see what appeared to be slight compression of the picture, especially in the dark areas. However, after doing a quick picture tune (brightness and contrast to 50, color to 22, saturation and tint to 0), that was 99% eliminated. Once I moved back to the couch, which is about 9.5-10 feet away, the picture looked perfect and I couldn't see what I was seeing up close. I suspect once I have time to fine tune this with my AVIA DVD, it will improve even more. After watching an HD channel for about 15 minutes, I began to realize how much my old TV set was suffering by not being very bright and having bad viewing angles. This picture was truly better overall. The colors were richer, without being torchy, the picture was considerably brighter, even with the brightness and contrast turned down, and the sharpness was very precise and crisp. On my RP CRT set, setting the sharpness to zero causes the image to be blurry, so I have to keep it around 40. On this set, it was set to 0, where it should be, and looks fantastic.


3) On opening/closing credits when white text appears on a black background does the level of black change?


I didn't notice this, but also wasn't specifically looking for it. I'll look for it later this week or weekend when I watch some movies.


4) When there are images of solid color like blue sky or undersea do the blue areas look smooth or like they are made up of bands of color.


I watched Discovery HD for a few minutes, and the outside shots of a bright blue sky seemed realistic and natural. No bands whatsoever.


5) Do each of the inputs "remember" the aspect ratio settings when you switch back and forth between them?


All of my components are hooked up to my receiver, then the receiver to the TV. So I only use one component really, so I can't say.


6) Is the overall picture on any input biased toward green or red?


Not that I have noticed, but if anything changes after calibrate it with AVIA I will let you know.


7) Do high definition images look "lifelike" or over-exaggerated?


Very lifelike.


8) Are the menus easy to use?


Easy to use, but a few minor complaints. When you hit the "menu" button, it doesn't just pop up the menu. It sort of "rolls down" from the top of the screen. So you have to wait for it to fully load before selecting an option. It's only a minor complaint, because once this thing is calibrated I'll rarely be in there.

My other complaint is that the menu has 2 settings which are inaccessible - black level extender and white screen (it's called "white" something, i think "white screen" but I'm not 100% sure.) . The manual says that the black level extender is not available for this model, so I assume they use the same software for every TV, and this feature is only available on other TVs. If that is the case, then they should have removed it from this menu. The manual does not say anything about the "white screen" not being available but yet I can't get to it. This option is something you turn on to put a solid white image up on the screen, to help undo image retention. I need to call Maxent to see if my TV is supposed to have this, and it's malfunctioning, or if this is another feature which this TV does not have. I would think that since this is a plasma, it would have it.


9) Are there any menus or features that you feel are missing?


None that can think of.


10) Does the set make any buzzing sounds or produce excess heat?


None that I've noticed so far.


11) Are the blacks very dark or somewhat grey?


The blacks are truly black, I don't see a hint of gray to them.


12) Post some photos of standard tv, dvd, hdtv.

I tried to take pictures of different video sources, but had no luck. With the flash on, you couldn't see the images. With the flash off, the images were blurry and dark. I didn't worry about it too much since someone else already posted some. I did take a few pics of the set though:

http://adam-snow.com/house/plasma/DSCN0348.jpg

http://adam-snow.com/house/plasma/DSCN0346.jpg

One of the best "universal" remotes I have is the x10 Universal 5-in-1 Learning Remote (http://www.x10.com/products/x10_ur74a.htm). The price of $50 for it sux; I bought my first one a few years back when they were on sale for $9.99, and I bought 6 more last year when they were buy 1, get 5 free (making it $8.33 each, sicne the "buy one" cost regular price of $49.99.) I still have 3 or 4 of them that have never been used. The best feature is the ability to "learn" codes from just about any remote, and control the functions. It even controls the power (but not the volume control, darnit) to my Logitech Z-680 5.1 surround sound speakers. eBay usually has them for around $20.


This one doesn't do receiver or DVD players, so I'll have to keep looking.

This one doesn't do receiver or DVD players, so I'll have to keep looking.It does. Mine is set to do the DVD player and the SAT button has been re-programmed for my Logitech Z-680 5.1 speakers.

All the buttons are capable of controlling any device, except for the TV button, which only controls TVs.

BTW, your pics are making me anxious for Thursday to get here!

Does anyone know if this TV will allow for discrete codes... power on; power off; input 1, etc.
Thanks,
JayMan

It does. Mine is set to do the DVD player and the SAT button has been re-programmed for my Logitech Z-680 5.1 speakers.

All the buttons are capable of controlling any device, except for the TV button, which only controls TVs.

BTW, your pics are making me anxious for Thursday to get here!

Thanks for clarifying, I may look into this one now. The only thing that makes finding a remote tough is my dvd player and myr eceiver, because they have separate on and off buttons instead of a single power button.

hfelsh: Thanks for the info. I'm going to buy mine probably today with this info!

Thanks for clarifying, I may look into this one now. The only thing that makes finding a remote tough is my dvd player and myr eceiver, because they have separate on and off buttons instead of a single power button.There are several multi-funtion buttons on the x10 remote that you can program (such as the four labled A B C and D), so all you'd have to do is remember A = on, B= off, or something like that.

Like I said, I see them all the time on eBay for $10 + shipping, no more than $20, so it's not a huge investment to check it out. It controls 5 devices, and it's quite handy if you use the x10 light controls (which I cannot live without now!) Too bad you don't live close to me, I'd lend you one of the spares I have sitting on my shelf. :p

Too bad you don't live close to me, I'd lend you one of the spares I have sitting on my shelf. :p

If you're interested in selling one, send me a PM.

I justw ant to confirm that BB did reduce their price, and the coupon posted is valid. I just went in there with my receipt, asked them to do a price match, and got $402 back.

I don't want this thread to get closed, so if anyone has any questions about this PM or email me

I thought BB does not pricematch?

I thought BB does not pricematch?

Pricematch themselves. If an item has a cheaper price during the return period, they will give you the money back.

I just want to take a minute to publicly apologize if posting the coupon (or the amount saved by using it) caused anyone to panic. Just trying to help out, 'cause I know saving a few hundred bux is a big deal to a lot of people!

Getting the 10% off coupon is what "sealed the deal" for me. ;)

I just want to take a minute to publicly apologize if posting the coupon (or the amount saved by using it) caused anyone to panic. Just trying to help out, 'cause I know saving a few hundred bux is a big deal to a lot of people!

Getting the 10% off coupon is what "sealed the deal" for me. ;)

Same here and thanks for the info man! I was gonna wait until our 65" Mitsu HD CRT sold but I'm gonna go pick it up today before this deal slips away.

Just ordered mine, got it for under MSRP with a 4yr in home plan using the reward zone. Plus a gift card.

Hey, if everyone that uses the coupon I posted sends me a nickel, I can finally say "If I had a nickel for every time someone used that..." :p (j/k)

Anyway, I came across this:

Maxent Launches Extended Warranty Program Delivering Protection Against Defects for Up to Three Years: Optional Coverage Supplements Standard One-Year Warranty on Maxent LCD and Plasma Televisions to Provide Consumers With Additional Protection, Quality Assurance (http://www.primezone.com/newsroom/news.html?d=78998)

I didn't get the Best Buy extended warranty (it came to something like $299), and there's no mention of how much Maxent is charging for this...any thoughts on it? I don't normally go for extended warranties, but then again, I don't often blow this much on a plasma TV, either. :rolleyes:

Hey, if everyone that uses the coupon I posted sends me a nickel, I can finally say "If I had a nickel for every time someone used that..." :p (j/k)

What's your Paypal address?

Anyway, I came across this:

Maxent Launches Extended Warranty Program Delivering Protection Against Defects for Up to Three Years: Optional Coverage Supplements Standard One-Year Warranty on Maxent LCD and Plasma Televisions to Provide Consumers With Additional Protection, Quality Assurance (http://www.primezone.com/newsroom/news.html?d=78998)

I didn't get the Best Buy extended warranty (it came to something like $299), and there's no mention of how much Maxent is charging for this...any thoughts on it? I don't normally go for extended warranties, but then again, I don't often blow this much on a plasma TV, either. :rolleyes:

This is very interesting and I don't see any mention of price on that site or the Maxent site. Anyone wanna take the initiative to email Maxent for more info? If nobody else does I will when I get back from lunch (and possibly buying my new 50x3).

What's your Paypal address?Same as my email, and you've already got that. :p

This is very interesting and I don't see any mention of price on that site or the Maxent site. Anyone wanna take the initiative to email Maxent for more info? If nobody else does I will when I get back from lunch (and possibly buying my new 50x3).Good point...I'm going to email them now. One of us should get an answer back soon (hopefully!)

I have got to stop reading on here...I don't think I've so anxiously waited for two days to pass since my first son was born! :eek:

koack,

Great review!

Can you briefly discuss the option(s) for stretching a 4:3/SD picture to fit the screen? Does it leave the center of the image alone and just stretch the sides? If so, is it a gentle strectch or obvious?

Thanks again!

koack,

Great review!

Can you briefly discuss the option(s) for stretching a 4:3/SD picture to fit the screen? Does it leave the center of the image alone and just stretch the sides? If so, is it a gentle strectch or obvious?

Thanks again!


The way my HD DVR works is that it overrides the handling of the aspect ratio, so I haven't even looked at what the TV is capable of doing. Sorry.

What to do, what to do!!!!

I am thinking about buying this set but have questions.

Does it have HDMI?

What to do, what to do!!!!

I am thinking about buying this set but have questions.

Does it have HDMI?

Yes, 1 HDMI port

Yes, 1 HDMI port

I just saw this model in BestBuy and it says HDMP but not mention of HDMI.

I just saw this model in BestBuy and it says HDMP but not mention of HDMI.

I'm sure that's a typo, because I don't believe there is such a thing as HDMP. Mine actually said DVI_HDCO, and I pointed out to the salesman that's it's an HDMI port, not a DVI. The manual confirms that it's HDMI-HDCP.

Here's my problem. I have my brother who has a Samsung Monitor that he wants to sell me for 3k, or I could buy the Maxent. My brother has the Samsung PPM50H3Q 50" Plasma Display and he only has used it 10 months. He is getting divorced and wants to get rid of it. I am thinking I should buy the Maxent.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Here's my problem. I have my brother who has a Samsung Monitor that he wants to sell me for 3k, or I could buy the Maxent. My brother has the Samsung PPM50H3Q 50" Plasma Display and he only has used it 10 months. He is getting divorced and wants to get rid of it. I am thinking I should buy the Maxent.

Any advice would be appreciated.

You brother is trying to pull a fast one. You can get this new and shipped for what he is asking. Now, if he asked for $1K lower then I'd consider it. :)

I didn't see anything about this when I searched anywhere, but does this model have a tuner? How about PIP? I tried looking on Maxent's site and couldn't find that info either. Thanks...

I didn't see anything about this when I searched anywhere, but does this model have a tuner? How about PIP? I tried looking on Maxent's site and couldn't find that info either. Thanks...

No tuner, and yes it has PIP.

You brother is ripping you off. You can get this new and shipped for what he is asking. Now, if he asked for $1K lower than I'd take it. :)


I don't think he is ripping me off, more just throwing a price out there. This just came up in the past few days and we did not even look it up on the net. If he said 2k would you buy that over the maxent?

I didn't see anything about this when I searched anywhere, but does this model have a tuner? How about PIP? I tried looking on Maxent's site and couldn't find that info either. Thanks...

I am interested in this as well. Also want to hear more about the extended Maxent Warranty

I am interested in this as well. Also want to hear more about the extended Maxent WarrantyI sent them an email asking about the price (per year, up to 3 years I think) and how to go about getting it. I'm waiting for a response.

I don't think he is ripping me off, more just throwing a price out there. This just came up in the past few days and we did not even look it up on the net. If he said 2k would you buy that over the maxent?

Probably not if it was my immediate relative. What if it dies a month after you have it? Dealing with family is tricky and selling expensive items can end up in more pain and suffering than buying it elsewhere. Maybe he could give it to you or barter somehow?

Just my 2 cents after giving my truck to my nephew and hearing about the engine dying on him a week later. Thank God I gave it to him and didn't ask for a penny. :confused:

Not sure if anyone has posted the technical specs yet: maxentusa_com/uploads/files/221.pdf

Not sure if anyone has posted the technical specs yet: maxentusa_com/uploads/files/221.pdf

Page #1, Post #2 ;)

This may not be news to most, but on the Maxent website the specs listed would definitely not be the latest generation of panasonic glass. That may not matter much if the PQ is good.

The Panasonic has 8.58 billion colors where this Maxent has 16 million. Is this a noticable difference? Could it be compared to setting your computer to 256 color rather than the 16 bit true color?

I sent them an email asking about the price (per year, up to 3 years I think) and how to go about getting it. I'm waiting for a response.
Maxent Warranty and Extended Warranty info from their website:
http://maxentusa.com/uploads/files/219.pdf
http://maxentusa.com/uploads/files/215.pdf

Maxent Warranty and Extended Warranty info from their website:
http://maxentusa.com/uploads/files/219.pdf
http://maxentusa.com/uploads/files/215.pdf

Seems the BB warranty is cheaper. Is the BB warranty any good?

The Panasonic has 8.58 billion colors where this Maxent has 16 million. Is this a noticable difference? Could it be compared to setting your computer to 256 color rather than the 16 bit true color?

The human eye can only distinguish 7,000,000 colors so I think that spec is stopped by the biological brickwall like most audio specs. A TV can have a trillion colors and a resolution of 10800x7200 and would not look any better then many of todays current models at normal viewing distances.

Even if its not the latest glass, The prior model Panasonics were extremily good and top rated nevertheless. The ONLY specs worthwhile are the specs one can see and hear. The rest are an engineer's excercise and marketing's new tools.

Agreed

lets say i do not NEED the 50" screen size (in fact i rather like 42", my room isnt quite large enough to fit a 50" comfortably), but i really WANT the 1366x768 resolution instead of rectangular pixels like the 42x3 with 1024x768, should i go for it? Does the fact that it actually has square pixels and a 720p resolution really effect the screen? I plan on watching movies with this, but i also play PC games a ton, and planned on getting xbox 360 (this will make me so broke it might not happen anymore, but i will eventually get the xbox 360), and i think the true 720p resolution is important.

basically im asking, is it worth the hike in the price just so i can have 1366x768 pixels instead of 1024x768 rectangular ones? will i notice the difference when playing my games?

thanks

edit: no one really needs to answer this anymore, ive decided that is just too much money for me to spend and i cant afford it, ill stick with EDTV and movies looking oh so purdy on em :D

For those of you who bought one, what have you set your picture settings to? I used the AVIA disc, as well as making some slight modifications afterwards, and these are the values I have:

Brightness: 50
Contrast: 50
Color: 22
Tint: 0
Sharpness: 0
DNR: High

You may prefer a more saturated color, so you may want to try 22-25 to see which best suits you. Anything above 22 made fleshtones look a bit too red for my taste. Normally I would set anything like DNR to off, but in this case it actually is quite an improvement. It has helped to reduce the grainiess of analog cable, without affecting DVD and HDTV PQ. I set my sharpness to 0 because I don't like artifical sharpness, but depending on your viewing distance and preference, you may want to experiment with 10, 20, and 30. I wouldn't go above that.

Also, I found that my picture was shifted about 1-2 inches to the right. On some analog channels, when I stretched the picture, I had a black bar on the left hand side. I loaded my AVIA overscan pattern, and sure enough, the left overscan was right at 0. Unfortunately, since not all channels and shows come through with a full image, you need an overscan all around of 2-5%. I set mine to 2%, and went throughe very channel I have, and so nob lack bars. If you don't have an AVIA disc, just simply change the channels and look for black bars on the sides and bottom. Make note of which channel was the biggest black bar, then use that channel to make your adjustments.

I saw from the tech specs pdf that was posted that the unit is a 50" but can no find the actual phyical size of the plasma without the speakers. I have a limited space in my wall unit that and have found only certian plasma's can fit.

Anyone with the actual plasma mind doing a quick hieght and width on it for me. Thanks.

Does anyone know if this model can cope with a PAL signal? A fair number of my DVDs are from the UK and my dvd player doesn't convert the signal, so if the tv can't accept PAL it'll be a bit useless for me.

Thanks in advance.

Does anyone know if this model can cope with a PAL signal? A fair number of my DVDs are from the UK and my dvd player doesn't convert the signal, so if the tv can't accept PAL it'll be a bit useless for me.

Thanks in advance.
Not according to their website... http://maxentusa.com/_coreModules/content/contentDisplay.aspx?contentID=5#broadcast

Thanks. Alas, 'tis as I feared.

Bought mine yersterday finally... what a nightmare to get that to work but WHAT a deal and well worth the effort. I was informed by the employees that the box would fit in neither of our cars. I was in my Supra (which barely has room to fit a Slurpee) and my wife met me there in her A6 which I thought might have enough room but I guess not. Luckily I was able to convince them to throw in free shipping as well and it'll be here tomorrow. Not sure yet if we'll set it up right away in another room or wait until the big TV sells.

I bought mine yesterday too...after going to 2 Best Buys.

Now I am making plans for he arrival of my new PDP baby. One reasonably smart thing I did last night that may be helpful to others is that I used blue, one inch, painter's tape to outline the proposed new mantle (mine is going over the fireplace), the PDP and the center channel. I was very surprised to see just how big it is once I created the outlines in tape. On Friday I meet with the trim carpenter and sometime next week should be show-time!

One question for those that have it already; Do you see any (if so how much) difference between using HDMI vs. Component on HD sources?

Just to clarify, do you mean RewardZone card? If so, this is CRUCIAL info and could save TONS of heartahce for others who are intersted in doing this same deal. I know it would have saved me gallons and gallons of gas and hours and hours and not to mention being banished from one of the local Best Buys for life. :D

Looks like I owe you 5 cents! ;)

I went to BB during lunch and bought the MX-50X3. In additionto the sale price, I was able to take advantage of the Reward Zone, no problems at all! It gets delivered next week. With the cash saved I ended up gettingthe 4-year warrenty for a few hundred.
Excellent deal!! Thanks for the info hfelsh!

Paypal sent! :D

This may not be news to most, but on the Maxent website the specs listed would definitely not be the latest generation of panasonic glass. That may not matter much if the PQ is good.

I guess I didn't catch this before I bought mine yesterday. Most of my decision was based on the assumption this was latest generation Panasonic parts like the 42" at CostCo.
Does anyone out there have more info on what Panasonic parts were used for the MX-50X3?

I still fee confident about my purchase - the picture was awsome in the store compared to the models around it, especially for the price!

Just to clarify, do you mean RewardZone card? If so, this is CRUCIAL info and could save TONS of heartahce for others who are intersted in doing this same deal. I know it would have saved me gallons and gallons of gas and hours and hours and not to mention being banished from one of the local Best Buys for life. :D


Jer,

Yes, I meant to say "Reward Zone" card. Have the CSR scan it before scanning. The department manager thought that "maybe" it would only work for new Reward Zone members. I happened to have just signed up for Reward Zones at the first BB store I went to and had not yet made any purchases that involved scanning the Reward Zone card until I went to BB store #2. I wonder if scanning the Reward Zone card before entering the UPC would NOT work for Reward Zone members who have used their Reward Zone card previously?

Rick

I was under the same impression and that's why it wouldn't work. They kept scanning it and nothing came up. I was planning to set up a new account for my wife to get it but had I known you scan the RZ card first I would have just used mine and saved a bunch of hastle. I'll pass the info along. Thanks! :cool:

Regarding Maxent Warranty- Maxent Warranty says return to factory only but in response to my telephone call today Maxent said the 50MX3 comes with a 1 year in house warranty. Contractor has no parts however (unusual??) and may have t..o send for parts or return to factory for further testing. Same is true of their extended warranty.

Regarding Maxent Warranty- Maxent Warranty says return to factory only but in response to my telephone call today Maxent said the 50MX3 comes with a 1 year in house warranty. Contractor has no parts however (unusual??) and may have t..o send for parts or return to factory for further testing. Same is true of their extended warranty.

So it's IN HOME for the standard 1-year warranty as well? That's great news.

Mods Note:

Please refrain form all Pricing/Discounts/COUPON/ talk.

Thanks,

Dave

To the Moderator:

I do not think this:
Please refrain form all Pricing/Discounts/COUPON/ talk.

was meant for me but I want to check. I mentioned NONE of the things listed.

Has anyone mounted this monitor on the wall yet? and if so which wall mount did you use?

I have to admit that I was sceptical of this monitor as I am a Sony HD CRT fan, but after viewing at BB I must say that I am impressed. Only the Pioneer and the Panasonic looked better IMO for much more $$.

For those who have already purchased them:
Do we have definite confirmation which Panasonic parts were used for the MX-50X3?

Also, is the BB extended warranty worth the cost?

Thanks in advance!

I have to admit that I was sceptical of this monitor as I am a Sony HD CRT fan, but after viewing at BB I must say that I am impressed. Only the Pioneer and the Panasonic looked better IMO for much more $$.

For those who have already purchased them:
Do we have definite confirmation which Panasonic parts were used for the MX-50X3?

Also, is the BB extended warranty worth the cost?

Thanks in advance!

1)Yes on the 2nd or 3rd page of this thread

2)Yes it is

3) go for it...I did

To the Moderator:

I do not think this:


was meant for me but I want to check. I mentioned NONE of the things listed.


Its for all of us, including me:)

Dave

I apologize if posting the BB coupon sparked the RZ talk, and that was verboten. :cool:

Back to the talk about the set...I just got mine! I'm watching "Invasion" in HD right now. After playing around some, I think I have the picture right where I want it. :D The picture quality is excellent!

The first two letters "MC" of the PDP panel model designation most assuredly means that the 50x3 plasma panel is a Matsushita/Panasonic part just as seen with the Maxent 42x3 plasma. The letters "MC" are also printed on the plasma panels contained in the current generation Panasonic-brand plasma televisions.

As you all get your hands on the 50X3's please calibrate them using DVE, Avia, THX opt, or other method and give us a report. I am particularly interested in hearing the opinions of anyone who owns or has owned a 42X3 or a Panasonic-brand plasma in addition to the 50X3 to discuss the differences in picture quality.


okay so from what i understand the pdp is panasonic and one of the main boards is panasonic. does anyone know what the half life is on the unit?

cause current gen pannys are 60k

thanks hluv.

I'm glad to hear that. I understand why the rules say no prices, since they want to keep the talk focused on the unit and it's features, and the mods were lenient enough not to remove any of my posts, which is cool. http://tampabaymiatas.net/forum/images/smiles/icon_thumright.gif

So, now on to the questions for my new friends: ;)

I got my unit setup last night, and I have some questions. I *used* to think S-Video was the way to go; but when I connected the HD cable box (a Pace DC-550 HD unit (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/archive/index.php/t-248647.html)) to the TV, though, it only reported NTSC. BHN gave me component cables with the HD cable box, so I connected those up, and it's in the correct mode now (depending on the show; the HD cable box is set to "pass thru", so if the show is broadcast in 720p, the TV displays that, and if it's in 1080i, it switches to that automatically.) I did notice a problem, though: HDHBO and HDSHO are just giving me a black picture, no sound. Weird, I have both of them on my service.

So here's the questions I have:

My high-def cable box has DVI out. This Maxent doesn't have DVI in, but it does have HDMI. The Maxent manual talks about connecting a set-top box or PC to the set, and if the set-top or PC uses DVI, to use a DVI to HDMI adapter cable to connect to the HDMI terminal. Would that be better than using Component Video? Circuit City sells them a few bucks cheaper than BB, so I can go pick one up pretty easily if it will help provide a better picture. I would need to get an "HDMI-to-DVI Adapter" like this, right?

http://www.circuitcity.com/IMAGE/product/detail/moc/EC.MOC.ULTVVAHDMIDVI.JPG

That looks to be HDMI male (into the Maxent) and DVI male (into the HD cable box), so is the Maxent manual is incorrect when it says DVI to HDMI? (Sorry, that part is confusing me as I've never seen one of those adapters.) Circuit City and Best Buy both have them, so I just need to get the correct one. I see there's also a cable for it, but it's way more expensive than just the adapter to to use the DVI cable I have.

I need to figure out how to get the HD cable box to both send digital audio out (to my Logitech Z-680 5.1 surround sound speakers) as well as audio out (stereo R and L) directly to the TV. I'll play around with that later tonight.

Has anyone hooked an Xbox up to this Maxent yet? I have the Microsoft Advanced A/V Pack, which lets me use S-Video to the TV and Digital optical connector to the speakers. I'm thinking that getting the Xbox™ High Definition AV Pack would be better, and it's on sale at Circuit City anyway (where I'll be going to get the DVI to HDMI adapter if you guys say it's better than component input.)

Whew...did any of that make sense?

BTW, confidential to Jeremy: me and my friends got a real kick out of the nickel. Thanks!

Buying one tonight.

I'm glad to hear that. I understand why the rules say no prices, since they want to keep the talk focused on the unit and it's features, and the mods were lenient enough not to remove any of my posts, which is cool. http://tampabaymiatas.net/forum/images/smiles/icon_thumright.gif

So, now on to the questions for my new friends: ;)

I got my unit setup last night, and I have some questions. I *used* to think S-Video was the way to go; but when I connected the HD cable box (a Pace DC-550 HD unit (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/archive/index.php/t-248647.html)) to the TV, though, it only reported NTSC. BHN gave me component cables with the HD cable box, so I connected those up, and it's in the correct mode now (depending on the show; the HD cable box is set to "pass thru", so if the show is broadcast in 720p, the TV displays that, and if it's in 1080i, it switches to that automatically.) I did notice a problem, though: HDHBO and HDSHO are just giving me a black picture, no sound. Weird, I have both of them on my service.

So here's the questions I have:

My high-def cable box has DVI out. This Maxent doesn't have DVI in, but it does have HDMI. The Maxent manual talks about connecting a set-top box or PC to the set, and if the set-top or PC uses DVI, to use a DVI to HDMI adapter cable to connect to the HDMI terminal. Would that be better than using Component Video? Circuit City sells them a few bucks cheaper than BB, so I can go pick one up pretty easily if it will help provide a better picture. I would need to get an "HDMI-to-DVI Adapter" like this, right?

http://www.circuitcity.com/IMAGE/product/detail/moc/EC.MOC.ULTVVAHDMIDVI.JPG

That looks to be HDMI male (into the Maxent) and DVI male (into the HD cable box), so is the Maxent manual is incorrect when it says DVI to HDMI? (Sorry, that part is confusing me as I've never seen one of those adapters.) Circuit City and Best Buy both have them, so I just need to get the correct one. I see there's also a cable for it, but it's way more expensive than just the adapter to to use the DVI cable I have.

I need to figure out how to get the HD cable box to both send digital audio out (to my Logitech Z-680 5.1 surround sound speakers) as well as audio out (stereo R and L) directly to the TV. I'll play around with that later tonight.

Has anyone hooked an Xbox up to this Maxent yet? I have the Microsoft Advanced A/V Pack, which lets me use S-Video to the TV and Digital optical connector to the speakers. I'm thinking that getting the Xbox™ High Definition AV Pack would be better, and it's on sale at Circuit City anyway (where I'll be going to get the DVI to HDMI adapter if you guys say it's better than component input.)

Whew...did any of that make sense?

BTW, confidential to Jeremy: me and my friends got a real kick out of the nickel. Thanks!


Haha... glad it was funny to you too.

If you're going to Circuit city just tell them you need a DVI/HDMI adapter to go from your STB to your PDP and that way you'll know you get the right part.

If you want audio you'll need to run it separate as neither HDMI or component will carry sound (which I'm sure you're already aware of) and you have a few choices but I'm not sure what inputs there are for audio on the TV. I'm running a receiver with HDMI and digital and optical and the whole nine so I really haven't paid too much attention to the TV and it's inputs. I'm sure you have plenty of options as to what to do to complete the task.

You will want the green component Monster cables for your Xbox (unless you're going 360 in a few weeks.. the $399 includes the component cables) as it will give you the best picture. It also has a spot to plug an optical cable for your audio or you can use the composite audio that is part of the cable.

Bottom line is this TV looked bad ass at the store uncalibrated and I can't wait to see how it performs in my home once calibrated. Mine is being delivered in a few hours and I was just gonna stick it in a guest room for the time being until the new house is built but now I'm not sure I can do that. I want to set it up, calibrate it and take in it's beauty. I guess I have a couple hours to think about it.

If it only had a tuner - even an NTSC. It's not easy convincing someone else that every time they want to watch TV they need to turn on another box...LOL.

After playing around some, I think I have the picture right where I want it. :D The picture quality is excellent!

What did you set your picture settings to?

If it only had a tuner - even an NTSC. It's not easy convincing someone else that every time they want to watch TV they need to turn on another box...LOL.

Couple different options:

1) Get a Harmony remote for $250 that will turn EVERYTHING on or off by pushing one button.

2) I use a Dish and one power button turns on the TV and the one right next to it turns the receiver on and off.

3) Never turn of your receiver.

I have Dish and bought a Mitsu 65" HDTV and paid the extra $300 or so to get the one with the tuner built in (Had stanadard cable and was planning to just run some OTA channels and upgrade to Dish further down the road ...that was until the HD bug big :D ) and am kicking myself for doing so as I've never needed it since. Had I had Dish before buying the TV I never would have paid for the tuner.

If it only had a tuner - even an NTSC. It's not easy convincing someone else that every time they want to watch TV they need to turn on another box...LOL.


Most people buy these TVs for HD content and movies. If you want the maximum amount of channels, you need satellite or digital cable, both of which require their own set top boxes. I know some people use over the air tuners, but they can be a pain and only get a few channels. I would never buy an HDTV WITH a tuner.

Most people buy these TVs for HD content and movies. If you want the maximum amount of channels, you need satellite or digital cable, both of which require their own set top boxes. I know some people use over the air tuners, but they can be a pain and only get a few channels. I would never buy an HDTV WITH a tuner.I wouldn't say that I agree with your completely. Some of the higher-end plasmas and LCDs come with the cabl-card-to-go feature, which should be the standard in a few years. The cable card just plugs in, and it's the "set top box".

Hopefully TiVo will have a HD cable-card-go-go unit soon, and my cable company will have the cable-card to go in it. That way, I can go back to using TiVo to watch TV (well, I still do, but I watch HD content in real-time now since I can't record it. :( ) I don't want to pay the $18 a month BHN wants to charge for the HD DVR they offer. :mad: I don't watch THAT much HD content...and I can always download it and play it on my modded Xbox.

I can see the pros and cons of having the tuner built in, but for my own use I prefer one just because I have things like a small LCD on the wall in the kitchen and don't want to have to have a STB in there to watch something. I can run the coax to it and I'm all set. Just my preference.

I found this deal on another website, and have followed it both places. Seems like the mods are really touch about links, prices, etc, so I will repost it here and edit out a price....


First off - thanks to the OP for the original deal. We just moved into a new house and were looking for a plasma for wall mounting. I was one step away from buying the new Pioneer at almost ***** with taxes, etc. when I saw this deal and started researching it. Bought one yesterday and wanted to share how everything worked out for me.

No problems at all on getting the deal the same way OP had it posted. Just try and grab someone who doesn't look as stupid as the typical BB employee. I found a rep who knew the system well and had everything written up and ready to go in less than 10 minutes.

I was already a Rewards Zone customer, but since I just moved I just rejoined under my new address. ****** that is referenced at the begining of the thread worked with no problem.

I hadn't used my BB card since I bought my last TV about 4 years ago, so I had to re-open it. I don't think anyone has mentioned it but if you use the BB card you get 18 months with no interest. In my mind this sweetens the deal considerably.

I bought the Sanus wall mount ($*****) and DID NOT want to skimp on this item. I may look around and see if I can get a cheaper one, but sure don't want the thing to fall off the wall

About the warranty: To quote Homer Simpson - "Extended Warranty?!? How can I go wrong?!?". Or more accurately - "Extented Warranties are for suckers!". I wholehartedly agree. With that being said...

BUY THE BEST BUY WARRANTY IF YOU BUY THIS THING!!!

Normally I cut the salesperson off right when they start the whole EW pitch, but in the case of this TV I think it's just stupid not to. It's only $***** for FOUR years of IN HOME coverage, and I would bet that most people will end up using it around the third year or so for something. I bought it on my last TV (Pioneer RP HDTV) and it paid for itself about 6 months ago when the TV died. The EW work is (at least in my town) contracted out to a really good repair shop and they did excellent work. If I had to pay that repair bill it would have been around $900, so the EW paid for itself, not to mention the fact that they came and got this huge thing and then brought it back when it was fixed.

I have an AMEX and sometimes use it when I am worried about the warranty on items since it doubles it. I know that other people have mentioned the Maxent warranty and 3rd party warranties. Based on my experience in the past (I've had EWs on several big ticket items from BB and I think almost all of them paid for themselves) I can say I've been pleased and can't imagine getting good results if you were dealing with someone across the country versus your local store and a local repair shop.

Seems like all the reviews on the AVSForum are very good so far, and for a deal this good and the assurance that it will still be working 4 years from now, I was definately in. Hope the display is as nice as I am expecting, and I'll find out on Saturday when I go pick it up.

Thanks again OP, and I hope my post helps some other ****** out on making a decision...

I found this deal on another website, and have followed it both places. Seems like the mods are really touch about links, prices, etc, so I will repost it here and edit out a price....If you're talking about the deal on FatWallet.com, that would be ME who posted that. :D

Well, went to Best Buy to check out all the hubub....As it so happens, they had a 50" Philips Ambilight positioned directly above the Maxent on the floor, so I considered that the 'gold' standard to which I tried adjusting the picture settings of the Maxent to compare. The Philips looked very good, couldn't find the remote and didn't mess much with the menu buttons on the side, so it was pretty much as is.

Anyway, a couple of things I noticed on the Maxent, that before I make a purchase, would like to know if resolvable or if anyone else has even seen:

1) Green and Pink pushes. I was never able to get a slight Green tint out of the picture. Not really noticable except in grays. For example, one of the BB loops is a Gamestation racing game. The road on the Philips looked a natural grey, but the Maxent had an ever so slight Greenish quality. I played around with the Tint and adjusted it as low as -30 and as high as +20. I saw from an earlier post that 0 was the optimum setting, but this still left the green. In addition to this, reds had a very slight pinkish hue compared to the Philips. I tried adjusting Color to around 50 and Tint to 0, but it was still faintly there.

2) Whites....Unless I missed it in the prior 6 pages (read them all twice), I haven't seen what people are setting the color temp to. When I first walked up to the set, I immediately noticed that the whites were 'Tan' on the Maxent compared to the Philips. No amount of brightness adjustment or even contrast would remove the creamy quality. I found that the color temp was set to Natural (there are three: Cool, Natural, Warm). Setting it to Warm made it worse, really darkening the whites (using cloud and snow scenes to compare). Setting it to Cool got it the closest to the Philips but it still had a somewhat yellowish creamy tint to it.

Other than that, I liked what I saw. The speakers weren't very loud, but for 10W, I didn't really expect them to be. My coupon expires in two days, so I'm really on the fence about this one...Wait for Black Friday and xmas sales, or take the plunge.

Robert

leaving the office to go buy it now. Going to pay to have it delivered and I am going to get the BB extended Warranty. Will let everyone know how it goes.

Buying one tonight.

leaving the office to go buy it now. Going to pay to have it delivered and I am going to get the BB extended Warranty. Will let everyone know how it goes.

Thanks for the play by play man. :D

1) Green and Pink pushes. I was never able to get a slight Green tint out of the picture. Not really noticable except in grays. For example, one of the BB loops is a Gamestation racing game. The road on the Philips looked a natural grey, but the Maxent had an ever so slight Greenish quality. I played around with the Tint and adjusted it as low as -30 and as high as +20. I saw from an earlier post that 0 was the optimum setting, but this still left the green. In addition to this, reds had a very slight pinkish hue compared to the Philips. I tried adjusting Color to around 50 and Tint to 0, but it was still faintly there.I have not noticed that on mine. Reds look red, greens look green, and roads look...well, like gray asphalt! :p

2) Whites....Unless I missed it in the prior 6 pages (read them all twice), I haven't seen what people are setting the color temp to. When I first walked up to the set, I immediately noticed that the whites were 'Tan' on the Maxent compared to the Philips. No amount of brightness adjustment or even contrast would remove the creamy quality. I found that the color temp was set to Natural (there are three: Cool, Natural, Warm). Setting it to Warm made it worse, really darkening the whites (using cloud and snow scenes to compare). Setting it to Cool got it the closest to the Philips but it still had a somewhat yellowish creamy tint to it.I believe I set mine to "cool". I tried all three settings and liked that one the best.

Other than that, I liked what I saw. The speakers weren't very loud, but for 10W, I didn't really expect them to be. My coupon expires in two days, so I'm really on the fence about this one...Wait for Black Friday and xmas sales, or take the plunge.You can say that again. I'm hard of hearing (resultant from my military days), and before I hooked up my Logitech Z-680's, I used the built-in speakers. I had to turn the volume up to 95 to hear anything, and I was only ~5 feet away. :( But after i connected the Z-680's to the HD cable box, I was back to 5.1 surround sound (though none from the TV's speakers.)

Anyway, question: I've been looking at actual DVD to HDMI cables, and some of them specify DVD-D (which my HD cable box says it has) while others just say DVI. Is there a difference?

Also, based on this explanation:

HDMI: High-Definition Multimedia Interface
The High-Definition Multimedia Interface is provided for transmitting digital television audiovisual signals from DVD players, set-top boxes and other audiovisual sources to television sets, projectors and other video displays. HDMI can carry high quality multi-channel audio data and can carry all standard and high-definition consumer electronics video formats. Content protection technology is available. HDMI can also carry control and status information in both directions.

So if my HD set-top box had HDMI (it doesn't :( , but this is a hypothetical question), then the HDMI cable carries both video AND sound?

So now I'm looking for DVI to HDMI, and found this: Certified HDMI DVI Cable 28AWG - 6ft w/Ferrite Cores (Gold Plated) (http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10231&cs_id=1023101&p_id=2404&seq=1&format=2): I won't post the price, but let me say :eek:! That's cheap!

From the description:

"6FT HDMI Male to DVI-D Male CABLE for HDTV PLASMA DIGITAL VIDEO
High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is the first industry-supported, UNCOMPRESSED audio/video interface."

Sweet! I ordered one. I checked them out on resellerratings.com, and they have a Six-Month Rating: 9.13/Lifetime Rating: 9.77. Not bad at all!

So now I'm looking for DVI to HDMI, and found this: I won't post the price, but let me say :eek:! That's cheap!

From the description:

"6FT HDMI Male to DVI-D Male CABLE for HDTV PLASMA DIGITAL VIDEO
High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is the first industry-supported, UNCOMPRESSED audio/video interface."

Sweet! I ordered one. I checked them out on resellerratings.com, and they have a Six-Month Rating: 9.13/Lifetime Rating: 9.77. Not bad at all!

Please edit this post ASAP to NOT include a direct vendor link to avoid the thread getting locked. Thanks.

So if my HD set-top box had HDMI (it doesn't :( , but this is a hypothetical question), then the HDMI cable carries both video AND sound?

HDMI will transfer both video and sound over the single cable. There are a few instances where audio will not be transferred and it is being blamed on a software conflict between different devices and not the cable. If you do some searching you'll see what is going on with v1.1 & v1.2 and so on. Chances are though that if you plug your device into your input via HDMI you'll get both audio and video.

So if my HD set-top box had HDMI (it doesn't :( , but this is a hypothetical question), then the HDMI cable carries both video AND sound?
But be aware that today the sound will only be PCM 2 channel, not DD5.1

3) The Best Buy internal product skew is: 7335485


My distant (none local) BestBuy indicated that this SKU was discontinued, but I thought this was a "new" product? :confused: (They did indicate I could order it...)

this set has any macroblocking issue??

my 50" Vizio starting to bug me......... fan noise(2nd time), macroblock.....

Universal remote: I use Dish network and for those looking to program their remote it was the final code listed for the Sampo (746) that worked for the 50x3.

Hold down TV for several seconds until all four clear buttons light up. Once all four light up, release the TV button and enter the code followed by the '#' key. The TV button will flash three times informing you that the reprogram was successful. Try adjusting the volume up and down and you'll see that it should work.

It seems many of the TV features aren't accessible through this remote. I can access the menu by selecting the TV and then menu but pushing the down button to scroll through the menu causes the menu to disappear... I assume because it thinks you're pushing the channel button down (even though there's no tuner built in). Dunno. But all the main features are there and that's good enough for me.

Back from BB and bought the TV with BB 4yr Warranty and got a great deal. The beggining of this thread really helped! ;)

Being delivered on Monday. Now I have to choose between DirectTv and Comcast. I have DirectTV now and I dont want to pay $500 for a new HD Tivo box. I also think Comcast has more choices, but the monthly is more $$$ Decisions Decisions.

Can anyone who already has this unit in hand tell me if there is a seperate "breakout box" like the Pioneer or are all the connections actually on the unit itself? I need to get a LONG (about 12-18 feet) HDMI cable if that is the case and I want to wall mount it. My cable box will be in a nearby closet. Saw the link on FW for the cheap cables and will check there if i need to...

Thanks for the original post, BTW.

Back from BB and bought the TV with BB 4yr Warranty and got a great deal. The beggining of this thread really helped! ;)

Being delivered on Monday. Now I have to choose between DirectTv and Comcast. I have DirectTV now and I dont want to pay $500 for a new HD Tivo box. I also think Comcast has more choices, but the monthly is more $$$ Decisions Decisions.


I just switched back to cable last month after being with DirecTV for about 8 years. BEST DECISION I'VE MADE in a long time. Was really worried about it but the service here (Time Warner) is great, has a better picture, less hassle (no buying boxes) and is priced the same as DTV. I say switch!

My Best Buy (Lexington, KY) has the 50x3 in stock now, but not yet on display. That should change in the next two days. I'll see what I can find out when we pull it out!

Another comment - when I looked up the TV in our system at BB today, I just had to look up all 50" plasmas. If the salesperson types in "Maxent" it won't come up, because it's listed under Regent, the company that owns the Maxent brand. That should explain the trouble some have had in finding it.

Can anyone who already has this unit in hand tell me if there is a seperate "breakout box" like the Pioneer or are all the connections actually on the unit itself? I need to get a LONG (about 12-18 feet) HDMI cable if that is the case and I want to wall mount it. My cable box will be in a nearby closet. Saw the link on FW for the cheap cables and will check there if i need to...

Thanks for the original post, BTW.

So far some of the Pioneer and a couple of the Philips PDPs have the separate 'media box' that I know of. You won't find a 50" PDP that has it for less than $4k retail. One can buy a receiver w/video input/outputs to accomplish the same task.

I just offered up the sku #, listed in the beginning of this thread, to the salesperson. No problem.

Anyway....went and took a look at the set tonight. I pick it up on the 15th. Got no interest til 2032, got the rewards zone card, used coupon. Got great deal. And believe it or not the wife approves so I can sleep indoors tonight.

Kind of bummed now though. There is something to be said for anticipation and thrill of the hunt. Kind of like Xmas after all the presents are unwrapped. Oh well, still have setting up to look forward to.

I am not going to hang this on the wall for a while, so the wife and I are looking at a stand to house all the components. My only problem is she wants one from pottery barn where it has all front doors. I dont want to have to open the doors everytime a use a remote. My question is, if I get a good Universal Remote, can I just point it at the TV (no direct point to the Cable Box) and press the on off button and control the volume/channels and other components? Anyone understand what I mean?


Also, the guy at BB recommends a "Line Conditioner" along the lines of Pure AV......anyone think they are any good? Do I need a line conditioner?

I just offered up the sku #, listed in the beginning of this thread, to the salesperson. No problem.

Anyway....went and took a look at the set tonight. I pick it up on the 15th. Got no interest til 2032, got the rewards zone card, used coupon. Got great deal. And believe it or not the wife approves so I can sleep indoors tonight.

Kind of bummed now though. There is something to be said for anticipation and thrill of the hunt. Kind of like Xmas after all the presents are unwrapped. Oh well, still have setting up to look forward to.

Yes!!! Give them the sku or tell them Regent.

No interest for 18 months, or until 2032???

MODS NOTE:

Please understand that "ALL" Non-Technical post will be deleted.

Please stay on topic.

Thanks.

Dave

My Best Buy (Lexington, KY) has the 50x3 in stock now, but not yet on display. That should change in the next two days. I'll see what I can find out when we pull it out!

Um, we were in that same Best Buy at about 7 pm and the guy said it had been on the floor since lunchtime...

My wife is a long time AVS lurker and she was the one who had to persuade *me* to buy the tv, rather than the other way round. :D

For those having trouble finding the model, "MX-50X3" works, while "MX50X3" does not. The dash is very important.....go figure. Delivery on Sunday....

By the way, I was told that Monster's "special line conditioner" will double the life of a plasma TV if bought at time of purchase....

For those lucky ones that got one, how big is the box? (LxWxH). Will it fit in a minivan?

Thanks!

For those lucky ones that got one, how big is the box? (LxWxH). Will it fit in a minivan?

Thanks!

Computer had 42inches high by 52 inches long (don't remember the width). However, they said that the measurements were often wrong after I questioned why the shipping weight was 180lbs.....

For those lucky ones that got one, how big is the box? (LxWxH). Will it fit in a minivan?

Thanks!

Just measured the box mine came in and it's 15"x54"x38" and those are all rounded up as the measurements were slightly under full inches.

How wide is the stand on the monitor (36inches?)? I need to find a good stand for it.

I am interested to know the width of the screen with and without the speakers attached. I am in the market for a stand.

I am not going to hang this on the wall for a while, so the wife and I are looking at a stand to house all the components. My only problem is she wants one from pottery barn where it has all front doors. I dont want to have to open the doors everytime a use a remote. My question is, if I get a good Universal Remote, can I just point it at the TV (no direct point to the Cable Box) and press the on off button and control the volume/channels and other components? Anyone understand what I mean?


Buy a Hot Link Pro kit. It's an IR extender so that you put your IR receiver on the outside of the cabinet, with the IR receiver and mini-emitters on the inside of the cabinet connected to all your AV equipment. Either that, or go with an RF remote if your equipment supports it.

Robert

Still would like to know if anyone who has bought this unit or viewed one at BB has noticed the same green tint compared to other Plasmas on display or to their CRT at home.

Also would like to know how the whites compared to the sets you saw.

I'm still bugged by the comparison I saw against the Philips Ambilight...I'm sure if I never had a reference set to compare to I would have never noticed.

Robert

I am interested to know the width of the screen with and without the speakers attached. I am in the market for a stand.


I agree, anyone who has one could you please measure how wide it it without the speakers. Thanks.

Still would like to know if anyone who has bought this unit or viewed one at BB has noticed the same green tint compared to other Plasmas on display or to their CRT at home.

Also would like to know how the whites compared to the sets you saw.

I'm still bugged by the comparison I saw against the Philips Ambilight...I'm sure if I never had a reference set to compare to I would have never noticed.

Robert

I looked at this TV for over 2 hours (different visits to BB) and I did not notice any green tint. I did notice a bad green tint on the older 42" model. The 50" was seated next to a Panny, Samsung, and a 6K Pioneer. I did notice that the whites were more white on the Pioneer, but not by much at all (at least not 4k worth). I did not play with any of the settings on any TV's, so I may be able to use DVE on the Maxent and get the whites a little more white. Anyway, I thought the picture was great and it compared well, if not better, to other units.

Hi, new member here.

First of all, thank you for all the info, very helpful.
I just purchased this TV, now I have some questions.

1).What would you recommend for DVD player for this set (I’d like to keep it under $250).

2). I have Motorola 3412 HD DVR with HDMI, so if get DVD player with HDMI what would be a better option for me: DVD to TV via HDMI and cable box to TV via component, or DVD to TV via component and cable box to TV via HDMI?

Some felt that the PQ over component was better than the HDMI on the 42x3 model. Is this the same case with the 50x3?

Just measured the box mine came in and it's 15"x54"x38" and those are all rounded up as the measurements were slightly under full inches.

Thanks! Man is this a tough decision. I had pretty much decided to "settle" for the Samsung HC-R4755, and keep the extra $$$$ for my next TV in a year or two (probably a 60in SED for less than this Maxent ;) ) I will probably still go with the Samsung, but of course I will need to avoid this thread while you all are revelling in your purchase :D

Just measured the box mine came in and it's 15"x54"x38" and those are all rounded up as the measurements were slightly under full inches.

Thanks for the box info. If possible, could you post the dimensions of the panel with and without speakers? Thanks!
-Phil

I am interested to know the width of the screen with and without the speakers attached. I am in the market for a stand.
I agree, anyone who has one could you please measure how wide it it without the speakers. Thanks.
How wide is the stand on the monitor (36inches?)? I need to find a good stand for it.
Width with speakers attached: 56.5"
Width without speakers attached: 49.25"

The stand measures 31.5" wide (actually, a hair - maybe a 1/10 - over that) at the bottom of the TV. It tapers toward the front.

And in case anyone asks the depth of the set is a hair over 4.5" :p

http://tampabaymiatas.net/forum/images/smiles/toothy9.gif

How wide is the stand on the monitor (36inches?)? I need to find a good stand for it.

The stand at the widest part (slight taper to it to the front and rear) is 31 3/4"

I am interested to know the width of the screen with and without the speakers attached. I am in the market for a stand.

Width w/o speakers is 49 1/4" and width with speakers is 56 3/4"

hfelsh: Beat me to it.

I added dimensions to the first post so they're all in one place.

Alright the internal label (I tried multiple times to get a pict, couldnt) so here is what it says

Line 1: (That M logo) M Jun 2005

is this the "m logo" that you're referring to:


http://panasonic.co.jp/company/en/segments/m_img/cd0005_p_005.gif

i found it at panasonic's japanese website:

http://panasonic.co.jp/company/en/segments/brand.html

I went to BB and I had to tell them to look up 50X3 and they were able to find it on the computer… I am so wanting to buy this TV however I don’t know if it will have a better picture than my 42" Mits HD regular rear projection tv..

Would it have a lot better picture than my 3yr old Mits for HD???

For those who have already purchased the MX-50X3...

What connections is everyone using (Component or HDMI) and has anyone compared the two?

I was just wondering if I need to upgrade my AV Receiver to a unit that has HDMI switching (like the Yamaha RX-V 1600 or 2600) as I only want one monitor out running to the Maxent since it will be wall mounted over the fireplace.

If I could still use my old Yamaha with component switching with no noticeable difference or degredation of the HD signal the I will probably buy this bad boy soon. :D

I went to BB and I had to tell them to look up 50X3 and they were able to find it on the computer… I am so wanting to buy this TV however I don’t know if it will have a better picture than my 42" Mits HD regular rear projection tv..

Would it have a lot better picture than my 3yr old Mits for HD???


That's very subjective, and you are probably the only person that can answer that. I saw the set live in BB and the picture was very good for the price. I did notice some small differences compared to the $5500 Pioneer, but not enough to justify $$$$$$

is this the "m logo" that you're referring to:


http://panasonic.co.jp/company/en/segments/m_img/cd0005_p_005.gif

i found it at panasonic's japanese website:

http://panasonic.co.jp/company/en/segments/brand.html


I posted that logo long ago and yes that is it.

I went to BB and I had to tell them to look up 50X3 and they were able to find it on the computer… I am so wanting to buy this TV however I don’t know if it will have a better picture than my 42" Mits HD regular rear projection tv..

Would it have a lot better picture than my 3yr old Mits for HD???

I have yet to feed it an HD source here at home but can tell you that SD looks SUBSTANTIALLY better than the 65" Mitsubishi CRT HD CRTV (model WS65515) that we just bought brand new less than a year ago. I haven't been able to compare HD to HD but can tell you that watching SD on it doesn't drain your will to live the way the Mitsubishi did. Again, clearly subjective but I can tell you that was one of my larger concerns as within a couple months the Maxent will be our main viewing TV and the bulk of what we watch is still SD so we needed a good SD picture. If it's better or as good as the HD signal in the store I assure you that the Maxent will have every bit as good a picture in HD than the Mitsu.. if not better.

HTH

Well, went to Best Buy to check out all the hubub....As it so happens, they had a 50" Philips Ambilight positioned directly above the Maxent on the floor, so I considered that the 'gold' standard to which I tried adjusting the picture settings of the Maxent to compare. The Philips looked very good, couldn't find the remote and didn't mess much with the menu buttons on the side, so it was pretty much as is.

Anyway, a couple of things I noticed on the Maxent, that before I make a purchase, would like to know if resolvable or if anyone else has even seen:

1) Green and Pink pushes. I was never able to get a slight Green tint out of the picture. Not really noticable except in grays. For example, one of the BB loops is a Gamestation racing game. The road on the Philips looked a natural grey, but the Maxent had an ever so slight Greenish quality. I played around with the Tint and adjusted it as low as -30 and as high as +20. I saw from an earlier post that 0 was the optimum setting, but this still left the green. In addition to this, reds had a very slight pinkish hue compared to the Philips. I tried adjusting Color to around 50 and Tint to 0, but it was still faintly there.

2) Whites....Unless I missed it in the prior 6 pages (read them all twice), I haven't seen what people are setting the color temp to. When I first walked up to the set, I immediately noticed that the whites were 'Tan' on the Maxent compared to the Philips. No amount of brightness adjustment or even contrast would remove the creamy quality. I found that the color temp was set to Natural (there are three: Cool, Natural, Warm). Setting it to Warm made it worse, really darkening the whites (using cloud and snow scenes to compare). Setting it to Cool got it the closest to the Philips but it still had a somewhat yellowish creamy tint to it.

Other than that, I liked what I saw. The speakers weren't very loud, but for 10W, I didn't really expect them to be. My coupon expires in two days, so I'm really on the fence about this one...Wait for Black Friday and xmas sales, or take the plunge.

Robert


Are you sure you were looking at the mx-50x3?

Are you sure you were looking at the mx-50x3?

Positive....Crawled behind and checked out the model # on the label. That's when I found the remote still in the foam baggie, so I started playing around with the adjustments to try and correct the greenish tint and the creamy whites. By setting the color temp to cool that helped the whites alot, but they still weren't snow white like the Philips sitting on top. And I could never get the green tint out. Mind you, if this set wasn't sitting directly underneath a $4,000 Philips, I probably never would have noticed the slight greenish tint. It wasn't that pronounced, but it was there. I'm going to go again tomorrow (last day of sale), and spend more time trying to adjust...

BTW, having spent alot of time with Front Projection calibration in my Theater, is it unusual for there not to be independent R-G-B adjustments? Is that something not to expect on a Plasma TV (I'm used to LCD). It just seems that the single color and tint adjustments are somewhat limiting....

Robert

Well I finally picked mine up. I hooked it up with the component cables for now with my HD digtal cable tuner. The picture is amazing... period!! Absolutely gorgeous!

There is no green tint what so ever. Not sure what the previous posting dude is complaining about?? I just watched Ice Age and the whites are unbelievable.

I have been playing with the settings and watching DVD's and HDTV programs all day. It is a 10 out of 10 in my book... forget spending 4k-5k for the same thing as the Pio guy did... I couldn't be more satisfied.

Now I need to hook up in a real stand instead of in front of my old set. lol. Looks like a new cabinet set or stand for me now.

Positive....Crawled behind and checked out the model # on the label. That's when I found the remote still in the foam baggie, so I started playing around with the adjustments to try and correct the greenish tint and the creamy whites. By setting the color temp to cool that helped the whites alot, but they still weren't snow white like the Philips sitting on top. And I could never get the green tint out. Mind you, if this set wasn't sitting directly underneath a $4,000 Philips, I probably never would have noticed the slight greenish tint. It wasn't that pronounced, but it was there. I'm going to go again tomorrow (last day of sale), and spend more time trying to adjust...

BTW, having spent alot of time with Front Projection calibration in my Theater, is it unusual for there not to be independent R-G-B adjustments? Is that something not to expect on a Plasma TV (I'm used to LCD). It just seems that the single color and tint adjustments are somewhat limiting....

Robert

I did notice that the whites were ever so slightly less white than a pioneer that was right above the set that I was viewing, but I did not see any green tint at all. I know the older 42" had a bad green tint problem (I have seen it and its BAD).

Question.......could this green push show up as the set breaks in? I know that may be a possibility. Anyone?

Well I finally picked mine up. I hooked it up with the component cables for now with my HD digtal cable tuner. The picture is amazing... period!! Absolutely gorgeous!

There is no green tint what so ever. Not sure what the previous posting dude is complaining about?? I just watched Ice Age and the whites are unbelievable.

I have been playing with the settings and watching DVD's and HDTV programs all day. It is a 10 out of 10 in my book... forget spending 4k-5k for the same thing as the Pio guy did... I couldn't be more satisfied.

Now I need to hook up in a real stand instead of in front of my old set. lol. Looks like a new cabinet set or stand for me now.


What kind of TV did you have before the Maxent?

There is no green tint what so ever. Not sure what the previous posting dude is complaining about?? I just watched Ice Age and the whites are unbelievable.


Not complaining, but making observations....And, I had several reference sets next to the Maxent to compare to...Watching Ice Age without any reference is not going to show you what I'm seeing. Don't take it as a personal attack, as I'm glad you're happy with your purchase. And if it doesn't look green and the whites are unbelievable, then great for you :)

I spent 2 hours at Best Buy tonight, and the whites are just not there. And I'm not the only one who noticed it. I tried the settings noted earlier by one poster (brightness and contrast 50, color 22, tint 0) and the black detail was horrible compared to the Philips and Sony across the aisle. I increased the contrast to around 70 and brightness to 65 and was happily able to correct the lack of detail. Tint had to be taken down to around -10 to -12 to get the reds looking red and not orange, and to keep the blues from looking like sea water (greenish). After alot of tweaking, the picture did turn out to be very nice and comparable in color and black level detail to the Philips. But the whites, still looked a little creamy and not white. I wonder if this set could be defective?

One strange thing too...I opened up and read the manual, and it says that the Color temp for 6500K is warm...No way in he$$. The only way to get the whites looking acceptable is the cool setting. Warm turns the whites the color of tapioca pudding.

I'm thinking of hitting another best buy to see if it could be this one set.

Robert

Just finished ordering mine tonight from BB after spending nearly 3 hours just looking and comparing all of the sets. Got the sale price, plus the coupon, plus talked the sales guy down some too, plus 24 month no interest financing, plus all of the RZ rebates. It is a sick final price for a 50" Plasma!!

You guys and gals are the best!! :D

They have to ship from the warehouse, so I will not have it until the 16th. That will give me some time to hook up the wall mount and get everything ready. :p

I will be using component cables for my HD STB, DVD player, and X-box. I will give initial impressions upon set-up.

Can't wait and thanks again for the find!!

After alot of tweaking, the picture did turn out to be very nice and comparable in color and black level detail to the Philips. But the whites, still looked a little creamy and not white. I wonder if this set could be defective?

Having realistic expectations based on the price of the unit (and the fact that it has 7th generation Panny glass - previous generation), are the other plasmas you're comparing to multi-billion color glass (current generation best glass) or multi-million color glass (like MX-50X3). Just trying to get a better perspective on what's being compared.

Thanks to all who have contributed to this thread

I'm very interested in purchasing one. I called BB online and they couldn't find it in their system

But I did call one of the stores (Santana Row) and the guy I spoke to indicated that they didn't have any models at all in Northern California on display or in transit. He checked Milpitas, Sunnyvale, San Jose and even went as far as Colma

They do however allow you to order, and supposedly this will take 2-3 days
They currently have about 90 in the local warehouse
The price was as mentioned in this forum
If I can get the 10% RZ applied, I think I'm in for one

He mentioned also that they'd have to deliver to my home and not to the store and it would cost an additional $50

Has anyone had it delivered to their home ?
Is it white glove service i.e they'll carry it upstairs or to whatever room you want and set it up for you ? Or do they just leave it at your door ?

Also a question about the BB PSP. Can this be purchased after the sale, or does it have to be at the same time as the tv ?

And finally about the RZ program. From reading BB web site you get 100 points for every dollar spent and a $5 certificate upon reaching 15,000 points. Is this cumulative i.e you get a $5 certificate for every 15,000, or is it just a one off certificate ? Can those certificates be combined to make a future purchase or is it only one certificate per future item ?

Thanks to all who have contributed to this thread

I'm very interested in purchasing one. I called BB online and they couldn't find it in their system

But I did call one of the stores (Santana Row) and the guy I spoke to indicated that they didn't have any models at all in Northern California on display or in transit. He checked Milpitas, Sunnyvale, San Jose and even went as far as Colma

They do however allow you to order, and supposedly this will take 2-3 days
They currently have about 90 in the local warehouse
The price was as mentioned in this forum
If I can get the 10% RZ applied, I think I'm in for one

He mentioned also that they'd have to deliver to my home and not to the store and it would cost an additional $50

Has anyone had it delivered to their home ?
Is it white glove service i.e they'll carry it upstairs or to whatever room you want and set it up for you ? Or do they just leave it at your door ?

Also a question about the BB PSP. Can this be purchased after the sale, or does it have to be at the same time as the tv ?

And finally about the RZ program. From reading BB web site you get 100 points for every dollar spent and a $5 certificate upon reaching 15,000 points. Is this cumulative i.e you get a $5 certificate for every 15,000, or is it just a one off certificate ? Can those certificates be combined to make a future purchase or is it only one certificate per future item ?

I have mine being delivered on Monday. I am not sure if it is white glove service, but nothing a $20 cant handle. :)

Extended Warranty can be purchased after you buy the TV. I got it and the peace of mind is worth it.

Not sure about your last question.

Has anyone had it delivered to their home ?
Is it white glove service i.e they'll carry it upstairs or to whatever room you want and set it up for you ? Or do they just leave it at your door ?

I had mine delivered and they unboxed it, brought it in and set it on top of the dressers for me. They then attached the speakers and plugged it on... that's about it. I thought they would hook up the devices and what not but they didn't so much as power the thing on to make sure it would even fire up... let alone not have any issues. Ah well... it's here now and no issues as of yet. The PQ is amazing and far exceeds the price I paid.

Also a question about the BB PSP. Can this be purchased after the sale, or does it have to be at the same time as the tv ?

And finally about the RZ program. From reading BB web site you get 100 points for every dollar spent and a $5 certificate upon reaching 15,000 points. Is this cumulative i.e you get a $5 certificate for every 15,000, or is it just a one off certificate ? Can those certificates be combined to make a future purchase or is it only one certificate per future item ?

Please do NOT discuss the RZ program, discounts or anything else as all of these could get this thread locked. The rules are very specific on discussing anything other than tech stuff so let's please respect that.

A simple search on Google or Best Buy will answer all your questions.

I increased the contrast to around 70 and brightness to 65 and was happily able to correct the lack of detail. Tint had to be taken down to around -10 to -12 to get the reds looking red and not orange, and to keep the blues from looking like sea water (greenish). After alot of tweaking, the picture did turn out to be very nice and comparable in color and black level detail to the Philips. But the whites, still looked a little creamy and not white. I wonder if this set could be defective?

One strange thing too...I opened up and read the manual, and it says that the Color temp for 6500K is warm...No way in he$$. The only way to get the whites looking acceptable is the cool setting. Warm turns the whites the color of tapioca pudding.


I tried the settings you posted, and the picture is so bad it's hard to look at. None of the colors are close to accurate, nor the white and black levels. I think the TV set you are looking at is defective.

Not complaining, but making observations....And, I had several reference sets next to the Maxent to compare to...Watching Ice Age without any reference is not going to show you what I'm seeing. Don't take it as a personal attack, as I'm glad you're happy with your purchase. And if it doesn't look green and the whites are unbelievable, then great for you :)


Well I have a 36" Sony Wega XBR and also a Hitachi 50" projection, so I would't say I have 'no' reference. I do know what good PQ is. I also compared it at the store and I found the PQ in the top crop of all around it.

I would say it must be a bad unit you are looking at or something else is wrong, because I also put the settings on what you have posted as well and it just can't be right... the picture is horrible.

Remember the BB trailer loops are not true HD and depending how the feed was split to your observed Maxent unit... that could have made a difference.

Heck, that's what 30 day return policies are for. I certainly wouldn't have bought and kept it... just based on the sales floor display.

Well I have a 36" Sony Wega XBR and also a Hitachi 50" projection, so I would't say I have 'no' reference. I do know what good PQ is. I also compared it at the store and I found the PQ in the top crop of all around it.

I would say it must be a bad unit you are looking at or something else is wrong, because I also put the settings on what you have posted as well and it just can't be right... the picture is horrible.

Remember the BB trailer loops are not true HD and depending how the feed was split to your observed Maxent unit... that could have made a difference.

Heck, that's what 30 day return policies are for. I certainly wouldn't have bought and kept it... just based on the sales floor display.

Yeah, I'm starting to think something's up with this unit too...A shame I spent so much time looking at a possible bad unit....I'm going to try and get to a different best buy with hopefully better results. I sure hope though, that a bad floor display is not indicative of possible bad quality control with these units...Like some other units, I hope it's not hit or miss.

Just had a thought....Don't know what the chance is that someone has this unit and the 'Barbershop' DVD (I think it was Barbershop and not 2). Anyway, one place that I specifically noticed the black level detail failing was a shot of Ice Cube in the shop and in the background next to the door was a mini-stereo rack system, all black. On the Philips and Sony units, you could easily see the buttons and dials on the face of the unit. Using the settings posted earlier of 50/50/22/0, the face of the unit was all black on the Maxent with no detail whatsoever. It wasn't until I increased the brightness/contrast on the unit to what sounds like bad settings on everyone else's unit that the detail appeared. Another shot was an HBO loop showing I think 6 feet under where there is a group of 6 walking, the front guy wearing all black with a flowing trench coat. On the Maxent, you could not see the creases in the coat as you could on the other sets, until again the brightness/contrast were turned way up.

I hope to get to the bottom of this...certainly don't want to unnecessarily scare anyone away from perhaps a great deal. Myself included :)

Robert

I don't have either one of those to look at, but I've been using the 50/50/22/0 settings with cool and it looks great in HD. SD, from my TiVo...eh, it requires a bit more work.

OT, a little: anyone know of a DVD player that does HD out? I mean, not HDMI or DVI, since I'm going to use that for my HD cable box, but the component cables? Just curious...as I bought the HD kit for my Xbox, but it says DVD out is limited to NTSC only for DVD playback. Is that normal for every DVD player?

edit: answered my own question...BB has several DVD players with 1080i upconversion. Has anyone used one with that feature on this set? Any comments in general?

I don't have either one of those to look at, but I've been using the 50/50/22/0 settings with cool and it looks great in HD. SD, from my TiVo...eh, it requires a bit more work.

OT, a little: anyone know of a DVD player that does HD out? I mean, not HDMI or DVI, since I'm going to use that for my HD cable box, but the component cables? Just curious...as I bought the HD kit for my Xbox, but it says DVD out is limited to NTSC only for DVD playback. Is that normal for every DVD player?

edit: answered my own question...BB has several DVD players with 1080i upconversion. Has anyone used one with that feature on this set? Any comments in general?

How are you feeding the TV from your Tivo? S-Video? I'm curious as to yours and others experience with regular SD content, as much of what we still watch (Comedy Central, A&E, Discovery, TLC, SpikeTV, etc.) are still broadcast in SD. I don't care if Judging Amy is in HD, I ain't watching it ;)

I know on our HT setup (108" front projection LCD), SD looks like crap and much of it is unwatchable. Am I to expect the same at 50"? Is everyone using these sets for their normal day-to-day TV viewing? I already have a dedicated theater, so I don't need something else that I can't watch all the time.

Robert

I know on our HT setup (108" front projection LCD), SD looks like crap and much of it is unwatchable. Am I to expect the same at 50"? Is everyone using these sets for their normal day-to-day TV viewing? I already have a dedicated theater, so I don't need something else that I can't watch all the time.



Good question, I have now been focusing on the SD PQ and I don't know.... I planned on replacing my XBR the in the living room as the everyday watcher as well. The stretch and PQ is not bad, but definitely not the same as my XBR.

I wondering since this is my first 'digital' set and I have digital cable... with the XBR the signal comes in digitally and gets converted to analog at the box and sent to the XBR. done.

But with the PDP the signal comes in gets converted to analog (based on which connections used) at the set top box, then sent to the PDP and converted back to digital. Seems like a problem to me??

I am wondering if the HDMI cables from the cable box will bypass this last conversion or ... else I am just totally off base here.

I have tried my TiVo both with S-Video and RGB connections. With either, PQ is average; I think it looked better on my 36" Magnavox CRT. So much so that I'm considering putting the TiVo in the bedroom with the 36" CRT and getting the BHN HD DVR for the living room. I'm a heav TiVo user, and I wish TiVo had a HD (non-DirectTV) DVR. :( I've had the BHN DVR before (non-HD), and once you use TiVo, going back to that seems a step down, but I can't go back to watching "live" TV. :cool:

I'm getting the Avia DVD now, so hopefully that will help with the PQ, but IMHO, the SD PQ is "watchable" at best. I just worry about the 4:3 shows (the majoity of what I watch) causing burn-in with the black bars on the sides. I've been using 16:9 zoom, but it's kinda annoying since it cuts off a small portion of the top/bottom of the picture.

And I'm looking for a DVD player with HD component out, which from what I've seen price-wise so far, is going to run me $150+ minimum. :(

to follow up this may be starting to make some sense.

I have a Panny 42PX50U with the coax feeding directly into the TV, no CableCard - just using the QAM tuner. I'll be honest, if I change the aspect ratio to 4:3 on any of the digitally simulcast SD channels (luckily for me, Comcast simulcasts every channel), my PQ is every bit as good as my Sony WEGA CRT. No difference. In fact, on some channels, I have to hit RECALL just to be sure that the picture is 480i and not 1080i.

I have the Panasonic TH50PX500U, and I must say that I am very pleased with how SD channels look. I have a cable card, although I also have a SA 8300HD STB which I use for the DVR functions. With the cable card, SD looks better than it looks on my parents 40" Sony CRT. With the STB, there is more variation (going from about the same, to a little worse depending on the channels).

Can anyone comment on their SD PQ for the Maxent and what settings and connections you are using?? thanks

So at FW one of the guys posted the number of a circuit board on their Maxent 50. The number is TNPA3563. The provided link shows this board is ONLY used in the latest panansonic models (50/500/500/8). How SURE is everyone that this is not the new glass? Maxent could verywell be forced to use "older" specs by panasonic to avoid compeitition.

I'm not sure if this is merely wishful thinking or has some non-zero probability of being true. Thoughts?

I don't have either one of those to look at, but I've been using the 50/50/22/0 settings with cool and it looks great in HD. SD, from my TiVo...eh, it requires a bit more work.

OT, a little: anyone know of a DVD player that does HD out? I mean, not HDMI or DVI, since I'm going to use that for my HD cable box, but the component cables? Just curious...as I bought the HD kit for my Xbox, but it says DVD out is limited to NTSC only for DVD playback. Is that normal for every DVD player?

edit: answered my own question...BB has several DVD players with 1080i upconversion. Has anyone used one with that feature on this set? Any comments in general?

I have the Samsung 850 which is one of the cheaper upconverting DVD players available. It can also be hacked using the remote to upconvert over component where most will only upconvert over the HDMI cable. This allows for more flexibilty for video connection since most sets/receivers only have one or two HDMI inputs. Now you can use the component for your DVD players and free up another HDMI input. Do some searches in the DVD players section and you'll get all the info you need.

So at FW one of the guys posted the number of a circuit board on their Maxent 50. The number is TNPA3563. The provided link shows this board is ONLY used in the latest panansonic models (50/500/500/8). How SURE is everyone that this is not the new glass? Maxent could verywell be forced to use "older" specs by panasonic to avoid compeitition.

I'm not sure if this is merely wishful thinking or has some non-zero probability of being true. Thoughts?That would be me that posted that. It's not Panasonic who sells it to other companies; Matsushita (the parent company of Panasonic) sells the components to other companies.

Think of it this way: the sum of the parts is worth more than the sum of the whole. Car thieves are the same way: steal the car, get it to a "chop shop" that breaks it down, and sell the parts individually. The total sum of the parts brings in considerably more than the car as a whole. Same applies to electronics. Matsushita makes money by selling the individual parts to other companies as well - in this case, Maxent, who is using Matsushita circuit boards and glass. They probably negotiated a mass buy, and it's possible that in 6 months or so when the "first run" is sold out, the MX-50X3 may very well use parts from a different manufacturer. Unlikely, but possible.

I have the Samsung 850 which is one of the cheaper upconverting DVD players available. It can also be hacked using the remote to upconvert over component where most will only upconvert over the HDMI cable. This allows for more flexibilty for video connection since most sets/receivers only have one or two HDMI inputs. Now you can use the component for your DVD players and free up another HDMI input. Do some searches in the DVD players section and you'll get all the info you need.I found the Samsung DVD-HD841 for a few bills (refurbed) at Amazon. I found the threads on it as well. Gonna see if I can find it local today; if not, I'll order it from them.

I recently got the hitachi 42hds52. When I first hooked it up to my HD conveter I found that the HD PQ was incredible but was greatly dismayed to find, that the SD PQ was fair at best.

Since I had just brought the set home the night before and hadn't yet gotten around to picking up HDMI cables (the set has 2 HDMI connections) I was still using component cables. I had a sneaky suspician, that an HDMI connection could help the problem so I ran up to the same nearby CC, where I had purchased the Hitachiout and picked up a set of 6' Monster brand HDMI cables (I know, I know...but that was the only HDMI to HDMI they had in stock with the shorter length and I was anxious to get the set hooked up properly...so I went ahead and paid the steep price).

Once I hooked-up the HDMI cables the difference was nothing short of astonishing! The SD PQ was now pretty darned close to what I'd describe as terrific!

A couple of days ago, I had to have a tech come out from the cable company to deal with a poor connection with one of the coaxial cables leading in from the outside splitter to one of the two sets we have upstairs (a 27" Akai HD LCD we bought at Sam's for our 16 yr old daughter's room....BTW-It has a really decent PQ, especially for such an incredible price). Anyway, when the cable guy took a look at the Hitachi (now with the HDMI connection) he was clearly impressed and commented, that he couldn't recall having seen such great PQ for a SD signal on an HD plasma...and that the HD PQ was definitely among the best he'd seen in all his travels. And when I showed him how I could swivel the screen by using the remote, his mouth dropped open and he exclaimed "now that's a really cool feature!" :D

Osprey Guy


Exact same situation as mine... and seems to be pretty much the consensus... I have ordered the HDMI cable and will post results of any SD PQ changes.

Anyone else have pics of this set in their home?

For those of you who bought one, what have you set your picture settings to? I used the AVIA disc, as well as making some slight modifications afterwards, and these are the values I have:

Brightness: 50
Contrast: 50
Color: 22
Tint: 0
Sharpness: 0
DNR: High



thank you thank you thank you. so much better now.
i can only put sharpness at 1. does not do 0.

where can i change the DNR? i do not see it in the picture menu (using component cables)

Thank you again,
armus

thank you thank you thank you. so much better now.
i can only put sharpness at 1. does not do 0.


You're right, it's 1, not zero. I didn't realize that.


where can i change the DNR? i do not see it in the picture menu (using component cables)


I'm not by the TV, but it's either in the picture or setup menus.

Am I the only one that thinks the set looks better with the speakers attached?

No not the picture, just the aesthetics.

Well, I pulled the trigger tonight...Here's the story:

Went to a different Best Buy, and they had 0 in stock and none to display. Had them check area stores and found one that showed one in stock/one available to sell, meaning they hadn't put it out on display yet. So, I head over there. Convince the HT manager to pull it from the stock room and set it up. I don't mention that I've already seen one in another store. Side Note Story:

So, while waiting for them to bring up the Maxent, I notice they have two 50" Pannys set up, one on top of the other. One is being fed from from their component source and one from an RF feed (coax). Of course the component one looks spectacular, while the one with a straight RF feed which is a modulated signal of their standard loop is unwatchable. So I ask the manager, "Are you trying to show how bad analog looks using the tuner in the TV"?. Straight faced, he responds, "its not using the tuner....It's the same signal that the other TV is getting, only it doesn't have the Monster cables (component set to the other TV). It's a demonstration of how good Monster cables are". I tried to argue with him explaining that RF and component were NOT the same signal and that he had to be using the NTSC tuner on the bottom set. He kept saying no way, same signal, it's all in the cable.

Anyway, they bring out the Maxent, unbox it and set it up. First thing I do is set all the settings to what everyone here has said: 50 brightness, 50 contrast, 22 color, tint 0. I will happily say that this plasma did not have the same green push as the other unit in the other store. BUT, the dark levels and color were HORRIBLE. Even the Best Buy guy (not the manager) who turned out to be very knowledgeable said that looks terrible. I went back to the adjustments I noted earlier, 65 brightness, almost 80 on contrast, 50 on color, tint 0 and the black levels improved significantly while the colors almost matched the panasonic 42" above it (the 50xu). I don't know if it is the fact they are distributing component signals from a matrix switcher to umpteen TV's or what, but the settings posted here simply do NOT work on the floor display in two stores now. I will say too that the whites improved over the other set I saw in the other store.

Now, the bad news....Compared to the Panasonic 50xu which is less resolution (1024x768) but a smaller screen (42"), the Maxent was very blurry. Not sharp at all. I had one guy walk up and was interested in the set and he said to me, "Is it me or is it blurry". I concurred as did many others. Sigh.....I'm starting to think that QC on these units aren't the best. Either that, or I just didn't notice the blurriness next to the Philips Ambilight in the other store, or comparing it to the 50xu Panasonic was an unfair comparison. But, the text and also motion scenes were blurry on this Maxent. I found myself trying to focus my eyes.

Well, with so many having better luck at home in a controlled environment, I decided I had 30 days at home to prove this unit out. So I bought one with the 4 year service plan. I pick it up next Tuesday, shipping from Atlanta (where incidently they show 147 in stock...They showed 150 yesterday, so sold three in the southeast in a day)....I'm holding my breath that I get a good one.

EDIT: One other thing I was told by the BB guy...Take it with a grain of salt. He said that while the Maxent's had Panasonic Glass and Components, that they were possibly seconds. He said Westinghouse does the same thing...Use the best stuff in their own and sell the substandards to 2nd tier manufacturers. Makes sense somewhat, in that Maxent is using the supposed same stuff that the Panny that costs twice is much is using.

Robert