I do have one problem. When I use my outside antenna the set will pick up all of the local HD channels except for ABC. When I hook up my cable feed the only channel it picks up is ABC. I guess I could switch cables when I want to use ABC but then I have to go through the scan every time. Can anyone think of a better solution? Thanks.Why would you have to rescan every time? Assuming by cable, you mean an unencrypted signal fed into the DTV tuner, just scan both it and your antenna input using a "manual scan" with the scan mode set to "add-on mode". This mode only adds any new channels found in each scan to those currently stored in the set. :)

As to having two sources to deal with, I guess I don't see why you couldn't use a combiner to feed both the antenna and cable signals to the tuner at the same time. Of course I haven't had a need to try this myself, so if anyone knows better, please chime in. ;)

Noticed yesterday at Costco they had rec'd in a couple more 42" Vizios.

Since I'd seen all this talk about G04, G06, G08, G10, I decided to look around the box & found the label with a long serial in it.

The two I saw had a "G11" in them, so I'm assuming this is what you guys are referring to.

What (if anything) would that mean for improvements??? Has Vizio acknowledged fan noises on these?? Flickering & any other problems??

If worthwhile, I might just jump just to have a TV 'cuz my money's burnin' a hole in my pocket!

:eek:

The two I saw had a "G11" in them, ...
What (if anything) would that mean for improvements??? Has Vizio acknowledged fan noises on these?? Flickering & any other problems??Well it would be hard for Vizio to acknowledge a problem with fan noise since the 42 inch don't use fans! :rolleyes:

The most commonly reported problem (in this forum) has been some units shutting down by themselves. This may or may not be a problem with some sets. It may also be that these sets are just sensitive to power fluctuations. I had a few shut down occurrences of my own until I replaced a "soft" circuit breaker in my home that was causing lights to flicker on the same circuit. Afterwards, no flickering house lights or PDP self shut downs! :D

Well it would be hard for Vizio to acknowledge a problem with fan noise since the 42 inch don't use fans! :rolleyes:

LOL!! Sorry, got the 50 & 42 crossed in my brain!! ;)



The most commonly reported problem (in this forum) has been some units shutting down by themselves. This may or may not be a problem with some sets. It may also be that these sets are just sensitive to power fluctuations. I had a few shut down occurrences of my own until I replaced a "soft" circuit breaker in my home that was causing lights to flicker on the same circuit. Afterwards, no flickering house lights or PDP self shut downs! :D

Ahh......OK. Sounds like this may be a go then. Went back to CC today at lunch & looked at their wall again........and once again the Pannys looked great, and then I even caught myself looking at the new Samsung 40 & 46" LCD's & realized I need to just SLOW DOWN before I spent waaaaay too much money.

All in all.......when the guy switched all the signal over to SD, I noticed they all looked like garbage with the Pannys looking the best of the bunch and the Sharps a close second (well, Hitachi too but Pannys were still sharper) so I'm reminded as to why I don't go as cheap as humanly possible again??

Also.............if Costco does another "discount" deal again would I be refunded the difference if I bought it now??

anyone know if another deal is coming out. i really want one of these.

Someone else reported earlier that the 42HP had actually gone up in price on the Vizio website.

Jay

Someone else reported earlier that the 42HP had actually gone up in price on the Vizio website.

Jay

The "club store" website is currently showing the retail price of the P42HDTV [EDIT]. That has been the stated retail price from day one, from all that I've seen. I've also heard no hint of any future 'promotions' comparable to the one that the third week of March. That isn't to say that it won't happen though.

Since I'd seen all this talk about G04, G06, G08, G10, I decided to look around the box & found the label with a long serial in it.



I don't know what, if any, changes or revisions that have been made in subsequent G series numbers. I have had a G04 since March 21st, and I haven't had a hint of a problem with it..... (knock on wood) ;)

I don't know what, if any, changes or revisions that have been made in subsequent G series numbers. I have had a G04 since March 21st, and I haven't had a hint of a problem with it..... (knock on wood)

G06 here! Nary a probem here. Rabbit ears on DTV connector. Super HDTV. I'm going to hook up my 5.1 sound speakers just as soon as my speaker stands arrive. I went the el-cheapo route and bought a Dual six speaker system on eB*y for next to nothing, 40 bucks or so, mostly shipping. We'll see what happens!

The price on the V***o site is $1,899 now; prior to the C***O sale it was $1,799, so success breeds a price increase. Nothing wrong with that!

Tom

Wanted to see what DVD players people have been using with this TV...I have the LG-511, but I think it might have to go back, i've been watching it a bit, and it seems to have some lip-sync issues...was wondering if you guys had any hdmi players with divx, without these issues...

I have the LG-514 hooked in via HDMI and it plays Divx really well, IMO. No lip-sync issues at all.

Anyone using an hdmi switch on this yet? I just bought a dvd player with an hdmi connection and am considering a manual 2x1 from monoprice (because it's cheap!) Anyone using either regular or manual?

Using the monoprice 5X1 HDMI switch. Works wonderfully switching the TV and my LG Upconverting DVD player. No complaints.

So the shuttoff woes continue. Shut off a few times today, then shut off and wouldn't turn back on. Did the power cord unplug/plug in dance and got no love this time. Left it plugged in (the yellow power light was on) while I called Vizo and the retailer to plan for a return, and after 20 min or so I heard a click. At that point, I could turn it back on. It has shut off a couple times since, but hasn't locked up like before. I am gonna take it back and get a new one on Saturday. I called Vizio to ask if there was a generation I should look for that possibly didn't have these issues, but he said it was hit or miss (basically).

*sigh*

Also.............if Costco does another "discount" deal again would I be refunded the difference if I bought it now??There will never be another "discount" deal on this particular model. That has historically been done only on the introduction of a new model. It's possible, however, the normal retail price will drop some before this model is eventually discontinued. Not sure about a refund if the price did drop. Others have reported having to return and then buy new to get the difference.

Of course you could wait another 11 months for the next generation Vizio 42 inch PDP which will probably use newer glass, have more inputs (like maybe 2 HDMI ports and/or cablecard), and cost less than this years "discount" deal. :D

"The "club store" website is currently showing the retail price of the P42HDTV [EDIT]. That has been the stated retail price from day one, from all that I've seen."

Last edited by Woodrow : Today at 07:44 PM. Reason: no price talk

I was trying to abide by the rules here... I thought it was okay to mention MSRP? What I entered was the MSRP, or at least it was the last I checked. Am I misinterpreting the rules? If I did, my apologies for doing so.

I liked the set but I returned it because of the uneven skin tones. One time they looked good and then they turned pink. I didn't calibrate it but I doubt it would have fixed the problem.

Got this on 03/20 (so called march madness). turns out it was really madness to have bought it.
My TV is dead (G08), will not turn on. The power cord is plugged properly. Had intermittent shutdown problem. The standby light is on to yellow.

Tried removing the power cable, replugging in after a a while etc. Nothing works.
Only realized it now, will have to call Vizio tomo.

Anyone had similar problems? What is Vizio's reply? Are they replacing the set?

Why would you have to rescan every time? Assuming by cable, you mean an unencrypted signal fed into the DTV tuner, just scan both it and your antenna input using a "manual scan" with the scan mode set to "add-on mode". This mode only adds any new channels found in each scan to those currently stored in the set. :)

As to having two sources to deal with, I guess I don't see why you couldn't use a combiner to feed both the antenna and cable signals to the tuner at the same time. Of course I haven't had a need to try this myself, so if anyone knows better, please chime in. ;)

The TV will do either OTA or Cable, not both. If you do a manual scan it will not retain the previous stations that it has in memory if it finds stations on the other source. Another words, it won't keep both antenna and cable channels listed at the same time. It's one or the other.

The HD receiver isn't as good as my AccessDTV card. I get a full signal for ABC on that card but a very broken up one on the TV receiver, if it picks it up at all.

vizio offered to truck out a replacement of my g04 set w/ the broken s-video input,
but it was faster for me to swap mine for a g08 set over at my local costco.

Using the monoprice 5X1 HDMI switch. Works wonderfully switching the TV and my LG Upconverting DVD player. No complaints.

C.Bucket, I've considered getting the switch because I just picked up an upconverting dvd player. What source are you using for the TV (cable, satelite)?

Got this on 03/20 (so called march madness). turns out it was really madness to have bought it.
My TV is dead (G08), will not turn on. The power cord is plugged properly. Had intermittent shutdown problem. The standby light is on to yellow.

Tried removing the power cable, replugging in after a a while etc. Nothing works.
Only realized it now, will have to call Vizio tomo.

Anyone had similar problems? What is Vizio's reply? Are they replacing the set?
I had the same problem with my G08 unit. Reported to Vizio on Mar 27 and they promised a new unit to be shipped within 5 business days. As of April 21, I am still waiting for the new unit.

C.Bucket, I've considered getting the switch because I just picked up an upconverting dvd player. What source are you using for the TV (cable, satelite)?

The TV source is a Comcast Motorola Dual Tuner DCT6412 III STB via HDMI. Was like working a black market deal to get one of these from Comcast, but it is worth it. Moving back and forth with the switch's remote is a small price to pay for a straight digital A/V connection on both devices. No degredation in PQ whatsoever. The switch is well worth the money, IMO.

Got this on 03/20 (so called march madness). turns out it was really madness to have bought it.
My TV is dead (G08), will not turn on. The power cord is plugged properly. Had intermittent shutdown problem. The standby light is on to yellow.

Tried removing the power cable, replugging in after a a while etc. Nothing works.
Only realized it now, will have to call Vizio tomo.

Anyone had similar problems? What is Vizio's reply? Are they replacing the set?

Exactly the same deal here with my G6. Vizio was more than excited to ship me a new one, when I called. Even though mine came back on after leaving it pluggeed in for 20 min (listen for the magical click) and hasn't totally shut down since, I am still swapping it out at the retailer tomorrow. Don't bother trying to fix it on your end, just grab a new one and hope for a non-affected set.

The TV source is a Comcast Motorola Dual Tuner DCT6412 III STB via HDMI. Was like working a black market deal to get one of these from Comcast, but it is worth it. Moving back and forth with the switch's remote is a small price to pay for a straight digital A/V connection on both devices. No degredation in PQ whatsoever. The switch is well worth the money, IMO.

Ok, I think you've sold me on it. I have Comcast as well, but I have the Motorola 3412 via HDMI, which I think is the newer box that they're rolling out for VOIP as well. I've been really pleased with the picture.

For some reason I've recently had problems with the component cables from monoprice. My dvd player wasn't working, and after picking up the upconverting player, it still wouldn't work using the component cables. I tried the player on another set and no dice, so my assumption is that the cables are faulty. I need to test some working cables on the Vizeo to make sure the input isn't faulty but I'm fairly certain it's the cables. Not sure why they would work for a few weeks and then stop working.

Anyway, I figured this is as good a reason as any to get the digital connection for the dvd player. I just wish I could get it today. I rented King Kong and really am looking forward to seeing it on the plasma! The price difference between the 5x1 and 2x1 is pretty substantial, so my decision has not been made yet...

Anyway, I figured this is as good a reason as any to get the digital connection for the dvd player. I just wish I could get it today. I rented King Kong and really am looking forward to seeing it on the plasma! The price difference between the 5x1 and 2x1 is pretty substantial, so my decision has not been made yet...

Yeah. I had the same issue deciding between the 2X1 and 5X1. Basically, I chose the 5X1 due to the fact that HDMI, from what I have been told, is going to be the USB of tomorrowland (take this comparison with a grain of salt). So paying $40 in preparation for a well connected HTPC/Mediacenter/Holographic Projector, etc. was worth it to me.

I had the same problem with my G08 unit. Reported to Vizio on Mar 27 and they promised a new unit to be shipped within 5 business days. As of April 21, I am still waiting for the new unit.

Oh! I called them today morning and they offered me the same -- replacement in 5 business days. Though, I was told it would leave their warehouse today itself.

With your experience, I don't know if I should wait or just return the existing one to "THE warehouse", and look for something else. I don't want to wait that long.

If I do swap it with the local store, is there is a particular serial number to look for, or is it more like hit-or-miss thing?

If I do swap it with the local store, is there is a particular serial number to look for, or is it more like hit-or-miss thing?

If there is a good batch, I couldn't exctract the serial or generation from the CSR at Vizio I spoke with yesterday.

i'd go for the latest available gXX number.
my g08 has been flawless so far.
hopefully they're incorporating lessons learned as they build these things.

Connected my brand new Oppo DVD Payer to my Vizio P42HDTV, and of course, with my luck, I am experiencing the green sparklie issue with 720/and 1080...I have read some reccomendations that the cable might not be good, but noone as ever replied saying that this actually fixed the problem....
I called Oppo, and he told me they have been getting a lot of complaints especially with people with my TV, and that I should probably return it... Is this the end of my Oppo experience? Should I return it and hold out for the newer model, or perhaps purchase something else?
Thanks for all your help...
Matt

Matt says:

Connected my brand new Oppo DVD Payer to my Vizio P42HDTV, and of course, with my luck, I am experiencing the green sparklie issue with 720/and 1080...I have read some reccomendations that the cable might not be good, but noone as ever replied saying that this actually fixed the problem....
I called Oppo, and he told me they have been getting a lot of complaints especially with people with my TV, and that I should probably return it... Is this the end of my Oppo experience? Should I return it and hold out for the newer model, or perhaps purchase something else?
Thanks for all your help...

I presume you are DVI-HMDI Oppo to Vizio connector. I'm using "March of the Penguins" as my test bed as there are big contrasts of B&W. I also got green sparklies using this setup but, somewhere on this thread someone suggested using the component connectors. So I ordered a set from monoprice.com with the fancy connectors (a little more expensive), and hooked it up. No green sparklies and the PQ is about the same for my eyes. Now I realize this is the second best solution, DVI-HMDI being best. So, it's either the Oppo supplied cable that is bad or the HMDI circuitry on the Vizio or maybe the DVI circuitry on the Oppo. I'm going to order a set of DVI-HMDI cables from monoprice and see if that might help eliminate one of the variables.

One other thing about the Oppo that I couldn't make work on the DVI-HMDI lashup, and it sounds like you could, was the DVI OUTPUT description on page 20 of the Oppo manual. I pressed the button, but no response. What should I have seen? On component video I get the O with a line thru it indicating no function on component and I understand that.

Something is amiss here and I'm not sure if it's the Oppo, the Vizio or the cables. I'm not giving up on the Vizio just yet as the OTA HD PQ is startlingly good and SD PQ on digital cable is great. (Build G06)

Tom

I took the plunge and exchanged my raincheck & $1499 for a G10 unit on Thursday. This is my first plasma, so those with experienced eyes should consider my comments those of a noob...

No random on/off problems so far
Absolutely quiet
HD feeds look stunning
Better than expected SD picture (some are very good, others are merely passable)
480p fed from my cheapo Panasonic s29 DVD player looks excellent
The speakers sound quite good for a TV (though I won't use them long)
Occasionally I see Rainbow Effect on bright scenes (but from past experience, I'm apparently sensitive to that :( )
Definitely worth the money

I had 5 separate people at the store tell me not to lay it flat. One said it "might cause problems with the liquid in the set or something." :rolleyes: Wasn't there another thread about "recharging" plasmas? Maybe I can get the store to sell them. :D

I had 5 separate people at the store tell me not to lay it flat.

I had the same caution experience in the store but there are no such warnings on the box. (The Pannys have such a warning.) And, in the manual they show you how to protect the screen if you must lay it flat.

Tom

Matt says:



I presume you are DVI-HMDI Oppo to Vizio connector. I'm using "March of the Penguins" as my test bed as there are big contrasts of B&W. I also got green sparklies using this setup but, somewhere on this thread someone suggested using the component connectors. So I ordered a set from monoprice.com with the fancy connectors (a little more expensive), and hooked it up. No green sparklies and the PQ is about the same for my eyes. Now I realize this is the second best solution, DVI-HMDI being best. So, it's either the Oppo supplied cable that is bad or the HMDI circuitry on the Vizio or maybe the DVI circuitry on the Oppo. I'm going to order a set of DVI-HMDI cables from monoprice and see if that might help eliminate one of the variables.


Tom

Tom, but you cannot upconvert on this DVD player through component correct? Which is basically why you are paying a little more for this unit than the normal kind. I sent mine back to Amazon after the advice of the CS Rep at Oppo.... It just seems to be some sort of issue between the DVI, and the Viz.... They are comming out with an HDMI unit very soon, so I will keep my eyes out for that. I just bought the new sony that came out, and although it can't play divx and isn't region free...seems to have pretty good PQ.... This only after 2 mins of testing though. Good luck with the Oppo, but I think a lot of us Vizio users are just SOL.

Doh!! Double posted.........see below!! :o

I had the same caution experience in the store but there are no such warnings on the box. (The Pannys have such a warning.) And, in the manual they show you how to protect the screen if you must lay it flat.

Tom


Well, I laid mine flat as I brought it home............JUST NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(BTW, it hauled home just fine....no damage laying it flat)

Yup.............call me a sucker or whatever, but I just couldn't stand it anymore. I don't even have a stand for it yet. I've literally just got the sucker sittin' in the box bottom, in the foam, with analog cable hooked up..........enjoying "Big World Little People" 'cuz I can. :D

I turned everything down to 50 and am just letting it be. I had no idea analog cable was gonna even work but all my channels are there. Only thing I'm not used to as an "old school" guy is that my VCR is no longer my "HUB". I don't go to channel 0 to watch DVD.

I hooked up my cheezy old $30 DVD player via composite (not component, not HDMI) and DVD's look great. Analog SD ooks pretty bland, but no worse than I saw at CC via their component hookups when I had the guy change ALLLLLLLL the plasma/LCD panels to SD content. So I'm just fine with that!! Obviously I'm looking to the future in this regard when (HOPEFULLY) all TV will go 720p and I can watch crystal clear TV.............even if I have to give the cable co a few extra bucks for an STB.

I'm happy!! (For now!) ;)

If anybody wants to throw out what I gotta do next, let me know. I'm gonna go check out the cheap Wal Mart stands & figure out where I'm gonna put my old 1991 entertainment center........... :o

(P.S. Price went down. At least at my Costco. Dunno why, but that did it for me)

Well, I laid mine flat as I brought it home............JUST NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(BTW, it hauled home just fine....no damage laying it flat)

Yup.............call me a sucker or whatever, but I just couldn't stand it anymore. I don't even have a stand for it yet. I've literally just got the sucker sittin' in the box bottom, in the foam, with analog cable hooked up..........enjoying "Big World Little People" 'cuz I can. :D

I turned everything down to 50 and am just letting it be. I had no idea analog cable was gonna even work but all my channels are there. Only thing I'm not used to as an "old school" guy is that my VCR is no longer my "HUB". I don't go to channel 0 to watch DVD.

I hooked up my cheezy old $30 DVD player via composite (not component, not HDMI) and DVD's look great. Analog SD ooks pretty bland, but no worse than I saw at CC via their component hookups when I had the guy change ALLLLLLLL the plasma/LCD panels to SD content. So I'm just fine with that!! Obviously I'm looking to the future in this regard when (HOPEFULLY) all TV will go 720p and I can watch crystal clear TV.............even if I have to give the cable co a few extra bucks for an STB.

I'm happy!! (For now!) ;)

If anybody wants to throw out what I gotta do next, let me know. I'm gonna go check out the cheap Wal Mart stands & figure out where I'm gonna put my old 1991 entertainment center........... :o

(P.S. Price went down. At least at my Costco. Dunno why, but that did it for me)


Where do you live? What Costco did you go to? I am still within the 30 price guarantee and I want my $$ if I can get it!

So Cal.


But what about a stand????


Wal Mart??

CC??

BB??

Any particular design or model??

Occasionally I see Rainbow Effect on bright scenes (but from past experience, I'm apparently sensitive to that :( )There is no Rainbow Effect with plasma TVs as they don't use a color wheel like DLP TVs do.

There is no Rainbow Effect with plasma TVs as they don't use a color wheel like DLP TVs do.
Not true. I see it. Search this forum for RBE and you will see several threads about people also seeing it and the many possible explanations.

For me it's not as bad as my DLP projector, and when I do see it, it is not nearly a large or prominent of a rainbow, but it is there.

I've had this TV since the first day of the big sale and I'm very impressed. Went out and bought an RCA DRC255n upconverting DVD player, this is where a problem arose. I connect it to the TV with a HDMI cable and a picture appears for a couple of seconds then disappears, the only way to get the picture back is to change a setting in the DVD player menu or turn the TV off and back on, again, the picture only appears for a couple of seconds then disappears. I know the DVD player is continuing to play as I have the audio hooked up to my home theatre system and the audio never stops. Do you think I could have a bad HDMI cable or does the TV simply not like my DVD player through HDMI, it has no problem when hooked up with component. I have made sure the DVD player is set to 16x9 and output to 720p. Can anyone help?

Welp.............it's all done! Picked up a cool stand at CC last night at about the closing hour. LOL!! Now I've just gotta wait for my credit card company to call me & ask who stole my credit card.....LOL!!!

Here's some pics before & after........


Before (http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/7064/img36645jh.jpg)



After (http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/8243/img36621nd.jpg)

Well, I laid mine flat as I brought it home............JUST NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(BTW, it hauled home just fine....no damage laying it flat)

Yup.............call me a sucker or whatever, but I just couldn't stand it anymore. I don't even have a stand for it yet. I've literally just got the sucker sittin' in the box bottom, in the foam, with analog cable hooked up..........enjoying "Big World Little People" 'cuz I can. :D

...snip snip...


Now whay did you buy? All the 42" HDTV Vizio's I've seen have the stand. Why doesn't yours? Are you sure you didn't get a returned item and it was sold again?

Love to know.

Now whay did you buy? All the 42" HDTV Vizio's I've seen have the stand. Why doesn't yours? Are you sure you didn't get a returned item and it was sold again?

Love to know.
I think he means an entertainment console, as opposed to the PDP stand.

Yup.........(as the pics show)......it came with a stand, I was talking about a console/stand but, of course that's hanlded now. Thanks! ;)


New question, however.......................


Now that I've got it up & running, it's time to put it to good use. Enough analog cable. What do I want to do next????

Call my cable company & get a box???

Regular TV channels look ok, but I notice some look much better than others. (Note that I haven't even *seen* anything in HD yet).

Is there really any way to make the regular SD channels look *best*???

TIA!

Yup.........(as the pics show)......it came with a stand, I was talking about a console/stand but, of course that's hanlded now. Thanks! ;)


New question, however.......................


Now that I've got it up & running, it's time to put it to good use. Enough analog cable. What do I want to do next????

Call my cable company & get a box???

Regular TV channels look ok, but I notice some look much better than others. (Note that I haven't even *seen* anything in HD yet).

Is there really any way to make the regular SD channels look *best*???

TIA!
If you have analog cable, try plugging the cable into the DTV input (as opposed to the TV input). Then run a channel scan and see if anything comes up. Most cable companies transmit a few HD stations (usually just the networks) in the clear. If nothing comes up, then call your cable company or D* to see what your options are.

I'm a little confused is this due to the green sparkles that you are out of luck.
I have the oppo and when I first plugged it in, got a lot of sparkles. I made sure that the plug was well seated in the vzio hdmi connector and the problem went away.


Tom, but you cannot upconvert on this DVD player through component correct? Which is basically why you are paying a little more for this unit than the normal kind. I sent mine back to Amazon after the advice of the CS Rep at Oppo.... It just seems to be some sort of issue between the DVI, and the Viz.... They are comming out with an HDMI unit very soon, so I will keep my eyes out for that. I just bought the new sony that came out, and although it can't play divx and isn't region free...seems to have pretty good PQ.... This only after 2 mins of testing though. Good luck with the Oppo, but I think a lot of us Vizio users are just SOL.

If you have analog cable, try plugging the cable into the DTV input (as opposed to the TV input). Then run a channel scan and see if anything comes up. Most cable companies transmit a few HD stations (usually just the networks) in the clear. If nothing comes up, then call your cable company or D* to see what your options are.

Welp............I tried it & got 107 channels. (But mostly music)


It's kinda' cool havin' the info bar at the top tellin' you what the channels are and what aspect ratio they're in & stuff........................BUT..............I noticed that HD still doesn't look like HD! What's up with that??

In fact.........the Los Angeles KTTV was on 2 different stations and one of 'em came in w/ letterbox bars. I couldn't get rid of 'em no matter what I did. It said "720p" but was comin' in 4:3 w/ the viewing on "wide". If I changed it to "normal" it squashed even more narrow......(weird!?!!)

Anyway..........looks like I'll have to call Adelphia & find out what they got goin' for digital. I really want some better lookin' TV than just analog cable!

:(

Welp............I tried it & got 107 channels. (But mostly music)


It's kinda' cool havin' the info bar at the top tellin' you what the channels are and what aspect ratio they're in & stuff........................BUT..............I noticed that HD still doesn't look like HD! What's up with that??

In fact.........the Los Angeles KTTV was on 2 different stations and one of 'em came in w/ letterbox bars. I couldn't get rid of 'em no matter what I did. It said "720p" but was comin' in 4:3 w/ the viewing on "wide". If I changed it to "normal" it squashed even more narrow......(weird!?!!)

Anyway..........looks like I'll have to call Adelphia & find out what they got goin' for digital. I really want some better lookin' TV than just analog cable!

:(
Are you sure the shows that were playing were supposed to be in HD? The HD stations still put out a lot of SD material (e.g., news, talk shows, game shows, syndicated reruns, etc.). Try again during primetime when you know for certain a HD show is on (e.g., Fox at 8p tonight) to see if it is in HD.

Ahhh.......OK......so maybe that'd explain it.

I didn't get a chance to look very hard so I'll have to see how they looked if they look much better.

Also.........I assume I could run a splitter so that I can get analog signal *and* DTV???

I have kids, so I'm gonna need stations like "Nick", "Disney", "abc family" etc.


I'll be run out of the house if I don't get those in....... ;)

(Or is it better to just get a cable box that'll run 'em all so the signal's not split & potentially "cleaner"???)

Ahhh.......OK......so maybe that'd explain it.

I didn't get a chance to look very hard so I'll have to see how they looked if they look much better.

Also.........I assume I could run a splitter so that I can get analog signal *and* DTV???

I have kids, so I'm gonna need stations like "Nick", "Disney", "abc family" etc.


I'll be run out of the house if I don't get those in....... ;)

(Or is it better to just get a cable box that'll run 'em all so the signal's not split & potentially "cleaner"???)
If you're only splitting it once, then the signal loss (usually 3db) shouldn't affect the quality. You can always get a cheap power splitter if you need it. You will have to switch between the TV and DTV inputs, which can significantly affect your WAF (or KAF). Finally, there are some stations (like HBO and, possibly, Discovery, ESPN, etc.) that you might not be able to get via the DTV input.

In the end, which way you go comes down to your needs and resources. If you are looking for the least expensive path, then just split the signal. If you want ease of use (i.e., not having to switch inputs to change from ABC-HD to Disney) and are willing to spend an extra ~$5-$15/month, then get a box. Or, if you want every HD channel, get a box.

We only watch network TV, so we get everything over the DTV input the choice is easy for us.

Well, I just said "shine it" & called Adelphia & got their HD/DVR system. It was $9 vs $14 & I figure I'll try their DVR for a while & if it sucks I'll buy my own later, but I figure I want ease of use at least for right now.



I've just got the TV plugged into a surge protector outlet right now. What about "Power Conditioners"??

Should I get a power conditioner ???

If so I notice some of 'em have a place where you can run your cable signal thru 'em. Is that good/bad/indifferent???

(My unit has a slight hum to it.......similar to what some have described here as a ceiling fan hum........which I assume is power supply. Wonder if power conditioning would help that at all?)

Slayerbtvs said:

Tom, but you cannot upconvert on this DVD player through component correct? Which is basically why you are paying a little more for this unit than the normal kind. I sent mine back to Amazon after the advice of the CS Rep at Oppo.... It just seems to be some sort of issue between the DVI, and the Viz.... They are comming out with an HDMI unit very soon, so I will keep my eyes out for that. I just bought the new sony that came out, and although it can't play divx and isn't region free...seems to have pretty good PQ.... This only after 2 mins of testing though. Good luck with the Oppo, but I think a lot of us Vizio users are just SOL.

As I said I didn't see much difference PQ-wise HDMI-DVI or component, but on component pushing the little DVI button on the OPPO remote only gave me the "can't do" symbol. Never saw any effect when pushing that DVI button while on the HDMI-DVI cable either. Should I have??

I bought mine direct from a dealer in CA. Don't know if they'll take it back, but want to test the monoprice HDMI-DVI cable first.

Tom

As I said I didn't see much difference PQ-wise HDMI-DVI or component, but on component pushing the little DVI button on the OPPO remote only gave me the "can't do" symbol. Never saw any effect when pushing that DVI button while on the HDMI-DVI cable either. Should I have??

I bought mine direct from a dealer in CA. Don't know if they'll take it back, but want to test the monoprice HDMI-DVI cable first.

Tom

grizzfan, i'm pretty sure that the OPPO only upconverts via DVI. if you're running component, it (the dvd player) isn't upconverting.. meaning you spent $200 on a DVD player for no good reason.

BUMP909 Says:

grizzfan, i'm pretty sure that the OPPO only upconverts via DVI. if you're running component, it (the dvd player) isn't upconverting.. meaning you spent $200 on a DVD player for no good reason.

I agree!!! But Oppo sent both cables, a DVI-HMDI and a DVI cable, so one could conclude that it should work on the DVI-HMDI cable. I'll call them to see why I'm getting no response, (i.e., not able to select the up conversion resolution) when I push the "DVI" button on the remote. I suspect and hope it's a faulty cable and when the monoprice one arrives we'll put that puppy to rest. If not I'll try to return it or put it up as used on eBay.

Tom

you might have noticed this already, but another vizio/oppo owner was having the same problems with the green sparklies. i think it was, patsandsoxfan. not sure if he got it resolved though.

I am curious what settings people are using for their SD TV viewing. I was watching tennis on clay surface yesterday evening, and it was very hard to see the ball, the clay was to red, and the yellow tennisball blended in to the clay. I compared the picture to my 5 years old $100 25 inch CRT tv, the colors there were much darker and more natural, and you could clearly see where the ball is at. I am thinking, is this due to the Vizio plasma, or do i need to adjust the settings, currently i have them all set to 50. Maybe the color needs to go waay down? Would appreciate any help here.

Thanks, Chris

SD viewing on a plasma is normally never as good as on a CRT.

what's the signal path for your SD signal??

straight into the p42hdtv ant/cable input or thru an output box (satellite, cable ???)

my setup uses an external box to upconvert everything to either 1080i or 720p prior
to entering the p42hdtv over component.

local analog stations look very good. satellite (D*) look terrible due to extreme compression
and stealing of bandwidth for addtional shopping channels.

[QUOTE=redgtxdi]Welp.............it's all done! Picked up a cool stand at CC last night at about the closing hour. LOL!! Now I've just gotta wait for my credit card company to call me & ask who stole my credit card.....LOL!!!

Here's some pics before & after........

QUOTE]

Sweet Setup!!! I got a chuckle out of how much you are like me. My wife teases me because I too left the plastic film on the black moulding.

What's up people!!!

Would somebody please post their final user display settings after reaching their 100 hour break in period? Preferably somebody with an HDMI>HDMI hookup from digital cable box....thanks in advance!!!

what's the signal path for your SD signal??

straight into the p42hdtv ant/cable input or thru an output box (satellite, cable ???)

my setup uses an external box to upconvert everything to either 1080i or 720p prior
to entering the p42hdtv over component.

local analog stations look very good. satellite (D*) look terrible due to extreme compression
and stealing of bandwidth for addtional shopping channels.


Straight into the ant/cable input, it's timewarner cable Analog signal directly out of the wall. What kind of box are you using to do the upconverting, and where can i get it? Do you mean that that box is doing a better job of upconverting the signal than the p42hdtv do internally?

Thanks, Chris

Anyone using an upconverting dvd player with the vizio yet with HDMI connection? I just ordered the 5x1 switch from monoprice and will see how it works this weekend. Curious to see if anyone has had luck with it. The only thing I've seen on this thread is people posting about problems with the Oppo. I've got a Motorola box hooked up by HDMI currently.

Anyone using an upconverting dvd player with the vizio yet with HDMI connection? I just ordered the 5x1 switch from monoprice and will see how it works this weekend. Curious to see if anyone has had luck with it. The only thing I've seen on this thread is people posting about problems with the Oppo. I've got a Motorola box hooked up by HDMI currently.


Just fyi... I have the LG LDX-514 HD upconvert DVD/VCR combo player and it works very good for HDMI-HDMI connection with my VIZIO P42. PQ is extremly good and very close to HD signal. I have these TV and DVD player for about 3 weeks now very happy with them.

There is no Rainbow Effect with plasma TVs as they don't use a color wheel like DLP TVs do.

I have commented before about the splotchy/rainbowy/red/greenish effect that I get on faces on certain shows. It seems to happen more on Fox. The show 24 is especially bad. The President looked great and his wife had yellowish/greenish/reddish splotches on her face. And no matter what everyone says, the set is still a little washed out compared to other sets. Still a great picture, but my Visio 37" LCD was better, sharper. I am debating whether to return it and try another one, but then I risk other problems.

[EDIT]

I have commented before about the splotchy/rainbowy/red/greenish effect that I get on faces on certain shows. It seems to happen more on Fox. The show 24 is especially bad. The President looked great and his wife had yellowish/greenish/reddish splotches on her face. And no matter what everyone says, the set is still a little washed out compared to other sets. Still a great picture, but my Visio 37" LCD was better, sharper. I am debating whether to return it and try another one, but then I risk other problems.

Also, I noticed a price drop at my local store the other day. Cant say, but its larger than 1 and lower than 3.


I only seem to experience the color issue with Fox...and in particular, 24. I think one of the reasons is that the show is shot in darker sequences then most other shows and I think the Vizio has a hard time with this.

I was playing with my setting last night during 24 and was complete frustrated with the picture quality....turned to ABC and it was stunningly different

:rolleyes: Anyone having overscan conserns like any input is more than 5% overscan or when your watching SD LB program and you ZOOM, the image is too overscanned. Watching HDTV LB programs fills the screen perfectly. I'm sure there is some overscan but it's minimal. DVD via the component input is overscanned almost 5%.

I suspect the firmware can be manipulated to modify many items within the TV such as seperate remote control codes for say... ON, OFF, COMPONENT 2, VIDEO 3, etc... And I'm looking for a customized overscan for each input. Visio did install an RJ-11 data jack and hopefully it's for more than diagnostic use.

I am almost certain this can be done but wanted to see if anyone else has the same overscan problem I have. Maybe my HDTV is defective. So far it hasn't given me a bit of trouble but I also run it from an UPS. Does anyone know a place (forum) that dabbles in this experimentation?

Thanks,
Joe

Anyone using an upconverting dvd player with the vizio yet with HDMI connection? I just ordered the 5x1 switch from monoprice and will see how it works this weekend. Curious to see if anyone has had luck with it. The only thing I've seen on this thread is people posting about problems with the Oppo. I've got a Motorola box hooked up by HDMI currently.

Yep. I have the LG LDX-514 Upconverting DVD player hookin in via HDMI through the Monoprice 5X1 switch. Works great. Revenge Of The Sith looked crazy good. You'll dig the switch, I am sure.

Yep. I have the LG LDX-514 Upconverting DVD player hookin in via HDMI through the Monoprice 5X1 switch. Works great. Revenge Of The Sith looked crazy good. You'll dig the switch, I am sure.

The "green sparklies" reports coming from Oppo owners have scared my away from upconverting DVD players with the P42-HDTV, but I didn't stop to consider that it may be something unique about the interface between those two components. I take it you're not seeing the green sparklies?

I'll definitely look into the LG because I'm now starting to get a hint of how good an upconverted DVD *might* look. I picked up a DVD tonight at Best Buy that has some of the best cinemaphotography in it I've seen to date - The Goo Goo Dolls - Live in Alaska. It's not a concert video, per se, but more a Goo Goo Dolls unplugged at various locations in Alaska (two on broken ice blocks in a glacier). It also features some great tourist type videos, but done with quality equipment. My desire to vacation in Alaska was certainly reinforced by seeing it! It beat anything I've seen to date on DVD in terms of PQ, over my XBox 360's component connection to the Viz. Better yet, it was on sale for a ridiculously low price. I'd love to see what it looked like upconverted; I think it would be a great test of upconversion benefits.

Connected my brand new Oppo DVD Payer to my Vizio P42HDTV, and of course, with my luck, I am experiencing the green sparklie issue with 720/and 1080...I have read some reccomendations that the cable might not be good, but noone as ever replied saying that this actually fixed the problem....
I called Oppo, and he told me they have been getting a lot of complaints especially with people with my TV, and that I should probably return it... Is this the end of my Oppo experience? Should I return it and hold out for the newer model, or perhaps purchase something else?
Thanks for all your help...
Matt

Hi, Matt. I have the Vizio P42HDTV and the Oppo and had the same "sparklies" when I hooked it up using the included Oppo DVI>HDMI cable. I will quote from a message I sent an earlier poster:


I have one, too, and I had rampant green sparklies at 720p with the Oppo DVI-HDMI cable. I had bought 5 10 foot DVI cables from Rat Shack when they dumped their brand for a strange deal with Monster. Their original cables were much better than the Monster and originally sold for $119 (yeah, ridiculous!) and they were dumping them for $12.95 each, so I bought all they had at the store...five of them. I put a Parts Express DVI-HDMI adapter with RF suppression on the cable, and, voila, rock steady 720p from the Oppo! No sparklies, no jittery picture.

I'm not sure why the Oppo cable was so bad with the Vizio.....it looked like a fairly good cable. But changing it fixed the problem. I also 'torqued' the connector very tight on the Oppo side and at the adapter.

YMMV.

I will add that it fixed the upconversion picture at 720P, but 1080I still has problems. The improvement from 480P to 720P over the HDMI is marginal, although I CAN see an improvement.

Of course, there is no guarantee that the cable change would fix your problem. It did for me, but others still report problems after changing to better cables.

Wadric

I'll let you guys know what I find out this weekend. I was sold on the 5x1 switch because, assuming HDMI is here to stay, I'll be using it a lot in the coming years. I bought a cheap Toshiba upconverting dvd player and will see how it works. If it doesn't look good I'll be happy to take it back and switch it for a better one.

Wadric stated:

I put a Parts Express DVI-HDMI adapter with RF suppression on the cable, and, voila, rock steady 720p from the Oppo! No sparklies, no jittery picture.

Could you be a little more specific about what this gizmo is? Is it just the cable with RF suppression or something else added? Why do you suppose it still have problems with 1080i?

Thanks!

These are some of the replies to my queries of Oppo, which are starting to irk me:

"The support on the Vizio can be very hit or miss. A higher quality cable or a DVD unit which produces a stronger signal will generally solve the green sparkling problem. But on average, green sparkling on the Vizio series of plasma displays will always have errors, due to the poor mechaical design of the Vizio plasma."

This was in reply to earlier question of me: "Have you tried a DVI-HDMI connection with this TV before the Oppo? I am not saying that the Oppo never fails, but the percentage is extremely low. I recall not more that 3 Oppo had problem over the last 1000 pcs tat we have sold.?

Their comment above about Vizio's poor design were in response to my comments about the LG apparently working well with the Vizio.

I'm beginning to think that the problem is in the conversion from a DVI plug on the Oppo into a HDMI plug on the Vizio. Sound like HDMI-HDMI works. Any thoughts here? Should I return the Oppo?

Tom

Those of you with the LG LDX-514, it looks to me like it only upconverts to 1080... is that correct? I'm not saying that it would eliminate the LDX-514 from consideration if true, but I can see that I prefer 720p to 1080i in what I've viewed in one month of HDTV ownership. 720p just looks steadier to my eye, although I do find it harder to pick up the flicker in 1080i, versus 480i.

Those of you with the LG LDX-514, it looks to me like it only upconverts to 1080... is that correct? I'm not saying that it would eliminate the LDX-514 from consideration if true, but I can see that I prefer 720p to 1080i in what I've viewed in one month of HDTV ownership. 720p just looks steadier to my eye, although I do find it harder to pick up the flicker in 1080i, versus 480i.

Nope, the LG LDX-514 can upconvert to either 720p or 1080i, and both of them have good PQ. It has a button to switch between 480p/720p/1080i. However, with my un-trained naked eyes, 720p and 1080i don't make any different, IMHO.

However, with my un-trained naked eyes, 720p and 1080i don't make any different, IMHO.

I tend to agree with the above, but would add that I have tended to like the overall picture on 1080i a bit better but sports look a bit better in 720p. It's a toss up to me.

Nope, the LG LDX-514 can upconvert to either 720p or 1080i, and both of them have good PQ. It has a button to switch between 480p/720p/1080i. However, with my un-trained naked eyes, 720p and 1080i don't make any different, IMHO.

Cool... that's all I need to know! I think I'll be ordering one. I don't know that my eyes are trained, but I do know that for whatever reason, I'm very sensitive to flicker. I literally get sick trying to view a computer monitor refreshing at 60 Hz. I see RBE in DLP's, with very little effort. I can watch a 1080i display just as I can watch a 480i display with no problem. However, I can tell you that a 720p display is more stable and looks at tad sharper. I wouldn't throw rocks at 1080i though...

Would somebody please post their final user display settings after reaching their 100 hour break in period? Preferably somebody with an HDMI>HDMI hookup from digital cable box....thanks in advance!!!

Bump...

Bump...

I don't have HDMI, but here are my settings (I haven't gone into the calibration menu yet):

Brightness: 51
Contrast: 68
Sharpness: 0 for television and DVD viewing, 25 for XBox 360 gaming
Tint: 51

Talking about upconverting DVD player ....
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=635294&page=1&pp=30
Im using one on my Vizio and its definitely awesome even with just the COMPONENT input. It can be set at 480p/720p/1080i resolution. Anybody tried this too?

I received the monoprice.com DVI-HDMI cable today and what an impressive hunk of cable that was compared to the one supplied by Oppo. But wait a minute.

The green sparklies are now joined by flashing green horizontal lines! I cannot tell what resolution I'm in either. The Oppo hangs for a second when the DVI button is pushed and a new blue OPPO screen comes up. Pushing Play gives a different resolution albeit without any designation. Two positions have the sparklies and two do not, but of lesser PQ.

Then to top it all off, one particular DVI button selection results in a black screen forever AND it locks up the whole system, Vizio, and its remote. Still haven't unscrambled that.

Oppo said they'd give me an RMA and evaluate the set. It's going back in the morning. They can keep it, I'm headed to the LG route where we have HDMI-HDMI.

But the Vizio system lock-up bothers me. I can operate the set from the side buttons, but the Remote has no effect. :mad: Anybody else had this locked up remote problem? Ideas?

Tom

I received the monoprice.com DVI-HDMI cable today and what an impressive hunk of cable that was compared to the one supplied by Oppo. But wait a minute.

The green sparklies are now joined by flashing green horizontal lines! I cannot tell what resolution I'm in either. The Oppo hangs for a second when the DVI button is pushed and a new blue OPPO screen comes up. Pushing Play gives a different resolution albeit without any designation. Two positions have the sparklies and two do not, but of lesser PQ.

Then to top it all off, one particular DVI button selection results in a black screen forever AND it locks up the whole system, Vizio, and its remote. Still haven't unscrambled that.

Oppo said they'd give me an RMA and evaluate the set. It's going back in the morning. They can keep it, I'm headed to the LG route where we have HDMI-HDMI.

But the Vizio system lock-up bothers me. I can operate the set from the side buttons, but the Remote has no effect. :mad: Anybody else had this locked up remote problem? Ideas?

TomThe VIZIO should like 720p best. what does that look like?

Jim Noyd asked:

The VIZIO should like 720p best. what does that look like?

That is part of the problem running the Oppo. I cannot tell what resolution is playing.

I'm returning the Oppo.

Still, after the experience I described in my last post, cannot get the remote to work on the Vizio. May have to call Vizio.

Tom

Jim Noyd asked:



That is part of the problem running the Oppo. I cannot tell what resolution is playing.

I'm returning the Oppo.

Still, after the experience I described in my last post, cannot get the remote to work on the Vizio. May have to call Vizio.

TomGo into the Oppo's set up menu and select 720p output.

Ever since I purchased the tv, I noticed a buzzing sound coming from the back of the tv. I have tried muting the speakers and turning them off through the menu, but it does nothing. I unplugged all inputs to see if it was a cable issue and it still does it. After doing a lot of research, I am finding articles everywhere talking about plasma tv's making buzzing sounds at high altitudes because the power supply has to work harder to power the panel in the thinner air. I thought this was bunk the first time I heard about it, but like I said, there are literally dozens of articles all talking about the same thing.

I live in SLC, UT. We are around 5000 ft. here. Is there anyone that can respond that can confirm the same issue at low altitude so we can eliminate that as a possibility?

Oh, by the way, the buzzing sound, sounds like a neon sign or flourescent light buzz.

Hey all, I've got a quick question. I was watching Chronicles of Narnia last night and saw something a bit weird. In the big battle scene towards the end, where the big soldier half man/half horse soldier is charging the queen (there is a spoiler ahead for those who haven't seen the movie) and then she ends up freezing him with her staff there is, if I remember right, a bright flash. Well while watching it on the vizio, at that point the TV went black but it looked like a bolt of lightning or something went across the middle of the screen. I think it was a weak link in my system somehow, and i'm hoping it wasn't the Vizio. I also noticed the same thing when watching Terminator 2. Right at the beginning when it shows the playground dream then jumps to the future. I think the screen shows a big explosion, which again seemed like too much for something to process. Now I don't know if the weak link is the Vizio, the cabling (Cat5 going through Video balun), the receiver (doing the video switching) or the dvd player. I was going to connect a different DVD player I have directly to the vizio with component and see if that made any difference, but before I went through all that I thought i would probe to see if anyone else has had that problem. Thank you.

Other then that, this TV has been rock solid so far, and this problem may not even be the TV. Time (and troubleshooting) will tell.

Jim, is there a reason the Vizio should display 720p better than 1080i? Just curious.

Jim Noyd stated:

Go into the Oppo's set up menu and select 720p output.

Thanks for the tip. However the Oppo is going back to the retailer who had provided me and RMA.

I just have to believe that if, as some have reported, the LG upconverting DVD player with HDMI-HDMI works well with the Vizio then the problem must be in the DVI-HDMI lashup. I have not read on this thread anyone who has solved the green sparklies involving the Oppo (a real nice piece of equipment) and the Vizio.

Tom

Hey all, I've got a quick question. I was watching Chronicles of Narnia last night and saw something a bit weird. In the big battle scene towards the end, where the big soldier half man/half horse soldier is charging the queen (there is a spoiler ahead for those who haven't seen the movie) and then she ends up freezing him with her staff there is, if I remember right, a bright flash. Well while watching it on the vizio, at that point the TV went black but it looked like a bolt of lightning or something went across the middle of the screen. I think it was a weak link in my system somehow, and i'm hoping it wasn't the Vizio. I also noticed the same thing when watching Terminator 2. Right at the beginning when it shows the playground dream then jumps to the future. I think the screen shows a big explosion, which again seemed like too much for something to process. Now I don't know if the weak link is the Vizio, the cabling (Cat5 going through Video balun), the receiver (doing the video switching) or the dvd player. I was going to connect a different DVD player I have directly to the vizio with component and see if that made any difference, but before I went through all that I thought i would probe to see if anyone else has had that problem. Thank you.

Other then that, this TV has been rock solid so far, and this problem may not even be the TV. Time (and troubleshooting) will tell.

I watched this movie a few weeks ago. I have component output from an inexpensive Philips DVD player, and didn't see any of the flashes you describe above. I've had some issues with the Vizio, specifically related to darker scenes, but nothing related to processing of action sequences, etc.

Pin2121

I bought this set 4 days ago. Here is what I noticed. San Francisco Comcast has no local hd station on their regular cable feed so I had to use OTA. The picture looks great to me with the antenna.

I have a LiteOn DVP2001 DVD player that uses component cable to upscale. The picture looks very good on 480p and 1080i, but on 720p it has that washed out look everyone is talking about. I'm using a set of Monster component cable. I have not use svhs, composite, dvi, or hdmi feed yet.

thanks for the reply Pin

Hey all, I've got a quick question. I was watching Chronicles of Narnia last night and saw something a bit weird. In the big battle scene towards the end, where the big soldier half man/half horse soldier is charging the queen (there is a spoiler ahead for those who haven't seen the movie) and then she ends up freezing him with her staff there is, if I remember right, a bright flash. Well while watching it on the vizio, at that point the TV went black but it looked like a bolt of lightning or something went across the middle of the screen. I think it was a weak link in my system somehow, and i'm hoping it wasn't the Vizio. I also noticed the same thing when watching Terminator 2. Right at the beginning when it shows the playground dream then jumps to the future. I think the screen shows a big explosion, which again seemed like too much for something to process. Now I don't know if the weak link is the Vizio, the cabling (Cat5 going through Video balun), the receiver (doing the video switching) or the dvd player. I was going to connect a different DVD player I have directly to the vizio with component and see if that made any difference, but before I went through all that I thought i would probe to see if anyone else has had that problem. Thank you.

Other then that, this TV has been rock solid so far, and this problem may not even be the TV. Time (and troubleshooting) will tell.

alex and alex, are you perhaps connected to component 2 input? cute picture by the way...

I bought this set 4 days ago. Here is what I noticed. San Francisco Comcast has no local hd station on their regular cable feed so I had to use OTA. The picture looks great to me with the antenna.


Are you sure? Here in San Jose I can get all their HD broadcasts w/o an HD box.

Go into the Oppo's set up menu and select 720p output.

All you really need to do while the player is not playing a disc is press the DVI button on the bottom left of the remote and the TV will display what resolution is used. It will also go through all the resolutions if you keep pressing it.

All you really need to do while the player is not playing a disc is press the DVI button on the bottom left of the remote and the TV will display what resolution is used. It will also go through all the resolutions if you keep pressing it.Do you mean,
"All you really need to do while the player is not playing a disc is press the DVI button on the bottom left of the OPPO remote and the PLAYER will display ON THE TV what resolution is used. It will also go through all the resolutions if you keep pressing it."

Jim Noyd & Mrhan BOTH said: (!!) (You guys are teasing me!) :rolleyes:

All you really need to do while the player is not playing a disc is press the DVI button on the bottom left of the remote and the TV will display what resolution is used. It will also go through all the resolutions if you keep pressing it.

The operative phrase, which is not operative in my set is: and the TV will display what resolution is used

And, I got long lasting blank screens in between button pushes.

That did not happen. If you carefully read my earlier post you'll note that I saw a change in resolution, but no display of that resolution with either the Oppo DVI-HDMI or the monoprice DVI-HDMI cables. The PQ of the Oppo cable was a tad better with only green sparklies. The monoprice cable added green flashing horizontal lines to the mix of sparklies! :D

So I returned both the Oppo and the monoprice cable. I don't think the monoprice cable is defective. As before I believe the Vizio can't handle the coversion from DVI to HDMI.

NOW! I'm in the market for another upconverting DVD player. I kind of am leaning to the LG xxx-514 as one poster has had good results with it and the Vizio. Any comments?!!

Thanx,

Tom

alex and alex, are you perhaps connected to component 2 input? cute picture by the way...

Nope. component 1. Thanks also about the picture. I'm a lucky guy to have the mrs. :D

Jim Noyd & Mrhan BOTH said: (!!) (You guys are teasing me!) :rolleyes:



The operative phrase, which is not operative in my set is:

And, I got long lasting blank screens in between button pushes.

That did not happen. If you carefully read my earlier post you'll note that I saw a change in resolution, but no display of that resolution with either the Oppo DVI-HDMI or the monoprice DVI-HDMI cables. The PQ of the Oppo cable was a tad better with only green sparklies. The monoprice cable added green flashing horizontal lines to the mix of sparklies! :D

So I returned both the Oppo and the monoprice cable. I don't think the monoprice cable is defective. As before I believe the Vizio can't handle the coversion from DVI to HDMI.

NOW! I'm in the market for another upconverting DVD player. I kind of am leaning to the LG xxx-514 as one poster has had good results with it and the Vizio. Any comments?!!

Thanx,

Tom


Okay, gotcha. I also use the monoprice DVI-HMDI cable and have not seen the sparkies or green flashing horizontal lines that you mention.

Wadric stated:



Could you be a little more specific about what this gizmo is? Is it just the cable with RF suppression or something else added? Why do you suppose it still have problems with 1080i?

Thanks!

These are some of the replies to my queries of Oppo, which are starting to irk me:

"The support on the Vizio can be very hit or miss. A higher quality cable or a DVD unit which produces a stronger signal will generally solve the green sparkling problem. But on average, green sparkling on the Vizio series of plasma displays will always have errors, due to the poor mechaical design of the Vizio plasma."


This was in reply to earlier question of me: "Have you tried a DVI-HDMI connection with this TV before the Oppo? I am not saying that the Oppo never fails, but the percentage is extremely low. I recall not more that 3 Oppo had problem over the last 1000 pcs tat we have sold.?

Their comment above about Vizio's poor design were in response to my comments about the LG apparently working well with the Vizio.

I'm beginning to think that the problem is in the conversion from a DVI plug on the Oppo into a HDMI plug on the Vizio. Sound like HDMI-HDMI works. Any thoughts here? Should I return the Oppo?

Tom


Sorry, I guess I wasn't very clear ...it seems I'm saying that the RF block is on the cable.

But, no, the RF block is part of the DVI-D to HDMI adapter. I'm guessing it is just sheilding, since the adapter is too small to have an inductor in it. It's Parts Express item #181-746 if you want to look it up.

Now, I have to eat some crow. After I wrote that 2 nights ago, I was watching "Mirrormask" (an excellent family film written by Neil Gaiman and featuring the Jim Henson group)) and it had "sparklies"! I stopped the DVD playback, and cycled through the Oppo remote's DVI button resolutions back to 720P, and restarted the DVD and the "sparklies" were gone.

So it's all kind of puzzling and I still don't know why 1080i has problems! Maybe a player that is straight HDMI-HDMI is the answer, but the Oppo is SO DAMN FINE at several things, like DIVX and DVD-A.

Wadric

"God bless those pagans!" -Homer Simpson

Wadric says:

Maybe a player that is straight HDMI-HDMI is the answer, but the Oppo is SO DAMN FINE at several things, like DIVX and DVD-A.

As stated the Oppo's in the mail back to CA. It appears that the LG LDX-514 has most all the features of the Oppo except Farouja circuitry, (somewhere I read on this thread that was undesireable I think), plus it has a VCR built in and is HDMI-HDMI.

Can anybody else comment on the LG lash up with their Vizio 42" HD Plasma?

Thanks,

Tom

Are you sure? Here in San Jose I can get all their HD broadcasts w/o an HD box.

Your lucky, got a ton on music channel, abc family, disney, movieplex, kron hd (not their regular broadcast), wgn, some other-can't remember all of them, but no locals in HD.

plus it has a VCR built in.

a what now? ;)

Can anybody else comment on the LG lash up with their Vizio 42" HD Plasma?

Thanks,

Tom

As I mentioned earlier, I have it for about 3 weeks and happy with it. Picture is crisp and clear with HDMI-HDMI connection... I tried it with the component cable, it also looks as good but I can feel that it's only about 95% in PQ compare to HDMI's. May be because of the lower end Component cable that I have? Who knows.

Here are my connection sets:
TV: VIZIO P42
DVD/VCR: LG LDX-514
Cable: Monoprice's HDMI-HDMI 24-AWG 10ft
Receiver: Denon AVR-2805

Without going too much into detail, this LG LDX-514 can upconvert to both 720p and 1080i. It can play DVD-R/-RW, DVD+R/+RW, VCD, SVCD, CD-R/RW, MP3, WMA, JPEG, DivX and MPEG-4. It has built-in 7-in-2 media reader

Inputs: 1 composite A/V, 1 audio, 1 RF
Outputs: 1 optical digital audio, 1 coaxial digital audio, 1 S-video, 1 component video, 1 composite A/V, 1 stereo audio, 1 HDMI, 1 RF

Oh, one thing that I forgot to mention that somehow this LG player is slow when it comes to loading up the DVD. Putting the DVD in the draw and wait for about 15-20 secs for it to bring up the picture. Not sure if it's an issue to anyone but it sure don't bother me much.

Govee

Oh, one thing that I forgot to mention that somehow this LG player is slow when it comes to loading up the DVD. Putting the DVD in the draw and wait for about 15-20 secs for it to bring up the picture. Not sure if it's an issue to anyone but it sure don't bother me much.

Thanks for the information update! I just won an eBay auction this morning for one and am anticipating good results too.

I think I know why the LG is slow to load - it's because of that monoprice 10 ft HDMI-HDMI 24AWG cable!

It's as big as a fire hose; maybe a shorter one would speed up the loading process! (just kidding!!) ;)

Tom

Your lucky, got a ton on music channel, abc family, disney, movieplex, kron hd (not their regular broadcast), wgn, some other-can't remember all of them, but no locals in HD.

When I was flipping through the channels when I first hooked it up to the cable I noticed that the channels weren't in sequence. A few of the HD channels were scattered throughout the channel line up. I thought I wasn't getting the local ABC(KGO) but it's up there in the 100-plus channels. So are the INHD1 and 2.

Oh, one thing that I forgot to mention that somehow this LG player is slow when it comes to loading up the DVD. Putting the DVD in the draw and wait for about 15-20 secs for it to bring up the picture. Not sure if it's an issue to anyone but it sure don't bother me much.

Govee

On dual layer DVD's how much of a pause is there in the middle of the movie?

On dual layer DVD's how much of a pause is there in the middle of the movie?

Sorry, I haven't had a chance to play with the dual layer DVD so I don't have an answer for it.

I've had my P42 for a few weeks now and have noticed a slight "pop" in the audio. Originally, I thought it was related to signal changes from 5.1 to another from the signal source since it happened around commercials. Note I'm using OTA signal source. Often it seems switches from HD to SD content from broadcasters include a change in the audio signals as well. There is no loss of video on this channel, so it appears the signal is strong.

Today, there is a continuous "popping" on one particular channel.

Does anyone else have any experience with this? Is it a matter of a poor signal perhaps?

Thanks.

Just wondering, does this TV have the ability to take PAL inputs?

Has anybody been forced to switch their set top box output to 720p from 1080i just to be able to watch an HD broadcasted sporting event without any inteference, pixelation and/or any other display problems?

I sent my Oppo back after the first day and my convo with Oppo Tech Support (which has been raved about)... I too think its a DVI-HDMI problem, and with the new Oppo on the Horizion, with HDMI-HDMI, I think will eventually be a good fit for our television. I have had multiple problems with DVD players...
My Xbox won't play DVD's correctly, I get crappy lines all over the place.
The LG had horrible audio sync problems
and The Oppo had sparklies.
I've bought the new Sony, and although it lacks DIVX playback, it has pretty good PQ and has been rated as high as some top quality players....
I love my Viz, especially at the price, but this DVD stuff is disappointing...but I've been showing a bit of patience as of late, who would have thought? lol

Slayerbtvs said:

The LG had horrible audio sync problems

Now that I have an LG LDX-514 on the way (!!!) what kind of audo problems did you have? Were you using HDMI-HDMI or component? Were you able to solve them? (Obviously not, you bought a Sony!)

Any comfort comments would be appreciated. :eek:

A-r-r-r-g-g-g!!!

I tried searching for "fan" but didn't come up with anything useful.
I did find that there wasn't a fan in the unit so I curious as to what is causing the buzzing noise I hear when the TV is on and I mute my input.
I did read some posts about the power supply buzz. Is that the source and is it normal?
Should I return/exchange the unit or can I call Vizio to correct it?

Thanks.

Also my HDTV channels on DTV input show up corrupted. It's just HDTV over cable feed. It briefly came in clearly then now it's corrupted, almost like a film negative.

Grizzfan,
I was using HDMI-HDMI, and any DVD I would have, the voices just wouldn't stay in sync with the lips....I won't lie, I didn't do extensive testing , or research, and it was when I was dead set on the Oppo, but I was reading of people having similar problems in the DVD forum, the 511 thread, and it was enough for me to bring it back to the store...so far the Sony has been good, just no DIVX =(

super,
Does your buzzing stop when you mute the tv? My tv's buzzing stopped when I muted the TV... I went out and bought a ground loop Isolator from Radio Shack... cleared the problem right up. Also heard you can buy a three prong to two prong adaptor, but I heard that wasn't reccommended. It could be a ground loop problem, so what I described should help, but search the forums, and you could come up with better solutions.

Grizzfan,
I was using HDMI-HDMI, and any DVD I would have, the voices just wouldn't stay in sync with the lips....I won't lie, I didn't do extensive testing , or research, and it was when I was dead set on the Oppo, but I was reading of people having similar problems in the DVD forum, the 511 thread, and it was enough for me to bring it back to the store...so far the Sony has been good, just no DIVX =(

super,
Does your buzzing stop when you mute the tv? My tv's buzzing stopped when I muted the TV... I went out and bought a ground loop Isolator from Radio Shack... cleared the problem right up. Also heard you can buy a three prong to two prong adaptor, but I heard that wasn't reccommended. It could be a ground loop problem, so what I described should help, but search the forums, and you could come up with better solutions.

Nope. The buzzing is still there when I mute. It's always there.

Grizzfan,
I was using HDMI-HDMI, and any DVD I would have, the voices just wouldn't stay in sync with the lips....I won't lie, I didn't do extensive testing , or research, and it was when I was dead set on the Oppo, but I was reading of people having similar problems in the DVD forum, the 511 thread, and it was enough for me to bring it back to the store...so far the Sony has been good, just no DIVX =(


Mine doesn't have any problem with the audio sync and I've watched at least 20 movies for the past 3 1/2 weeks. Let just say if it has some at least I haven't noticed it yet.

Perhaps, because of the setup??? Here is how I connect my home theater just an FYI:

LG LDX-514 to Vizio P42 by HDMI-HDMI monoprice cable for Video ONLY
LG LDX-514 to my Denon 2805 receiver via a Philips Optical cable for Digital AC3 Audio
I also hooked the AV composite (NOT component) cable from the LDX-514 to Denon receiver for viewing VCR tape (I haven't watched any VCR tape yet thought).

Hope this helps,
Govee

Bought this TV yesterday with a rain check. They honored the coupon AND the purchase price had dropped $200. That is just too good of a deal.

OK, so my TV died 2 weeks back.. Used to click loudly when powering on or off, finally one day it did the same click sound whle on standby, after I haven't been able to turn it on. It is still on standby. This was a G08xxx serial number. Immediately called Vizio and they were glad to ship me a replacement, said it would take 5 business days (the time period ended Apr 28th). Though, the TV did not arrive but someone called to let me know that they will deliver the TV tuesday (tomo).

Will get the replacement tomo, will update info then, serial number etc.

Goveeman states:

Mine doesn't have any problem with the audio sync and I've watched at least 20 movies for the past 3 1/2 weeks. Let just say if it has some at least I haven't noticed it yet.

Thanks a lot!

Tom

apparently my set has the random shut off problem. i've had it since it went on sale. is my best choice to call up vizio and ask them to come out and replace?

apparently my set has the random shut off problem. i've had it since it went on sale. is my best choice to call up vizio and ask them to come out and replace?

That's one option, but seems like their delivery is slow based upon posts here. The other option, if you bought it a C****o is to take it back for an exchange.

Tom

I seem to be one of the few who are not having any sort of problem with this set, but reading the reports here, I have to admit to being paranoid about it now. I've learned a lot about it in the 5+ weeks of ownership, but I still haven't explored it fully. For example, I'm still using strictly component video inputs for both DVD and set top box connections.

My overall impressions are:

Pros:

The P42-HDTV looks great when displaying HD broadcasts, particularly 720p. It actually exceeds expectations in this regard.

It is virtually silent. I don't hear a buzz out of it... ever.

The black level performance is incredible.

Cons:

The SD performance is disappointing in most cases. I find that I can't tolerate most SD broadcasts on this set... I go to my 32" Toshiba CRT for SD.

Only 4 levels of sharpness.

I've never gotten used to the style of the bezel. I still find it ugly.

I guess my biggest problem with the P42-HDTV right now is that it's too small for my application. That's my fault though.... I bought it knowing that it defied all of the home theater sizing charts. It's perfect for 7-9', but the 10-12' distance the average viewing distance is in my living room is too much for it.

Would I buy it again? No.... the set that I gave up waiting on (the JVC 52-G787... 52" D-ILA rear projection with optical iris) came out three months earlier than I expected. Now that I've seen its performance on the demo unit at Best Buy, it's harder accept what I have in the P42-HDTV. However, YMMV....

apparently my set has the random shut off problem. i've had it since it went on sale. is my best choice to call up vizio and ask them to come out and replace?

I just had a replacement delivered. The serial number is G08xxx. My old one was also G08xxx. The warehouse in my area is carrying G12xxx.

So, I don't know if the replacement I received is actually a brand new one or a refurbished one. I would suggest, if you have an option of exchanging it from the place you bought the original one, go for that. It's faster too...

Like OnlookerDelay, I haven't had any problems with my set either. I am very happy. Analog channels look fine to me, and most 480i SD looks Ok. There is clearly a widely varying quality though. The PBS 480i always looks good but most of the network stuff is pretty bad. But I've never seen a digital set that made those channels look good. I figure I'll keep it in the family room for a year then move it to my bedroom and replace it with a 50" or 55".

If the new Vizio 55" retails for under $3000, then you can guess that a coupon for $300 or $400 off might be available at launch. At that price a 55" might be really sweet!

I seem to be one of the few who are not having any sort of problem with this set, but reading the reports here, I have to admit to being paranoid about it now. I've learned a lot about it in the 5+ weeks of ownership, but I still haven't explored it fully. For example, I'm still using strictly component video inputs for both DVD and set top box connections.

My overall impressions are:

Pros:

The P42-HDTV looks great when displaying HD broadcasts, particularly 720p. It actually exceeds expectations in this regard.

It is virtually silent. I don't hear a buzz out of it... ever.

The black level performance is incredible.

Cons:

The SD performance is disappointing in most cases. I find that I can't tolerate most SD broadcasts on this set... I go to my 32" Toshiba CRT for SD.

Only 4 levels of sharpness.

I've never gotten used to the style of the bezel. I still find it ugly.

thanks for the honest input, I share the same pros/cons as you do. Have you finalized your viewer settings? If so, what are they? Thanks in advance!

I just had a replacement delivered. The serial number is G08xxx. My old one was also G08xxx. The warehouse in my area is carrying G12xxx.

So, I don't know if the replacement I received is actually a brand new one or a refurbished one. I would suggest, if you have an option of exchanging it from the place you bought the original one, go for that. It's faster too...

that's from what i gathered in this thread... but... I'm assuming that if i were to get one from vizio that i would be guaranteed a working one... whereas if i go back to "the store" I would be rolling the dice.

people in this thread also suggested that the random shut off might be a result of a loose power connection so i'll see if any fiddling will result in any changes.

Like OnlookerDelay, I haven't had any problems with my set either. I am very happy. Analog channels look fine to me, and most 480i SD looks Ok. There is clearly a widely varying quality though. The PBS 480i always looks good but most of the network stuff is pretty bad. But I've never seen a digital set that made those channels look good.

Yes, the quality is variable on SD broadcasts... ESPN and ESPN news are absolutely horrible! History Channel and TLC are acceptable. It is tue that digital sets don't handle SD as well as analog CRT. However, I've seen SD on a Sony SXRD, and it was markedly sharper than what I see on the Viz. What troubles me the most about SD on the Vizio is the lack of vibrance. A common criticism (and I'll confess a valid one) is that it lacks vibrance across the board... this really shows up in SD.
If the new Vizio 55" retails for under $3000, then you can guess that a coupon for $300 or $400 off might be available at launch. At that price a 55" might be really sweet!

I haven't heard of the forthcoming 55" model, but I do know this - I can now buy the JVC HD-52787G for ~$400 more than I paid for the P42-HDTV. I have no problem justifying the extra cost for a 10" larger screen with a more vibrant picture (not to mention a more pleasing bezel design). I'll admit that even with the 787's new optical iris, the black levels still aren't quite as pure as the Vizio, but it more than makes up for it in vibrance.

It probably sounds like I'm coming off as a sourpuss about this, but if my Viz goes on performing like it is now, and we see more and more HD channels arrive on the scene, I'll be content. I'm just sharing some of my 20-20 hindsight with those who may be faced with the same decision today.

thanks for the honest input, I share the same pros/cons as you do. Have you finalized your viewer settings? If so, what are they? Thanks in advance!

I've stayed out of the calibration menu so far. In the standard settings, I go with two sets.

For movie and broadcast television viewing:

Brightness: 48
Contrast: 69
Color: 45
Tint: 51
Sharpness: 0

For video gaming on the XBox 360:

Brightness: 50
Contrast: 70
Color: 46
Tint: 51
Sharpness: 50

I just got the 5x1 HDMI switch from monoprice and am waiting for another HDMI cable. I have two but forgot that you need 3 for the setup (tv to switch, cable box to switch and dvd to switch). I'm looking forward to seeing how it looks.

I'll also add that I've been nothing but pleased with the Vizio. The HD picture looks fantastic, and while I agree that the SD picture is bad on many channels, that doesn't bother me since almost all my viewing is HD. Mine is in the basement, so I pretty much use it for movies and shows that I want to watch. If I'm just flicking around I am more than likely in my bedroom. I haven't had any problems (knock on wood) and think I got a great value.

I'm still waiting for my Avia disk to help calibrate the system and will post what I come up with when it is done. Right now I have everything tuned down below 50 and think the picture looks great.

Originally Posted by mypdp
I just had a replacement delivered. The serial number is G08xxx. My old one was also G08xxx. The warehouse in my area is carrying G12xxx.

So, I don't know if the replacement I received is actually a brand new one or a refurbished one. I would suggest, if you have an option of exchanging it from the place you bought the original one, go for that. It's faster too...

that's from what i gathered in this thread... but... I'm assuming that if i were to get one from vizio that i would be guaranteed a working one... whereas if i go back to "the store" I would be rolling the dice.

people in this thread also suggested that the random shut off might be a result of a loose power connection so i'll see if any fiddling will result in any changes.

I received my replacement TV today. Vizio said it would be delivered in 5 business days, but it took 8 days. I received 'white glove service' in which the delivery people took down my old set, packaged it, and set up my new one. I also had the same random shut down problem, and it made wild clicking noises while in standby mode. The old serial # was G08. My new serial # is G07!? I expected to get a TV w/a higher #. This makes me think that I received a refurbished one, too. But like you said, I rather get a working one than gamble by exchanging it for another at the store.

Has anyone had problems w/their replacement TV??

Well I have had my TV for nearly two months now and can say that I am VERY happy with my decision! The vast majority of programming that I watch is HD (If there was only ESPN I would be happy!) and my DVD viewing is awesome with just a simple progressive scan DVD player from Toshiba.

I took great care to make sure that before I made any judgement on the TV that I had as good of connections to and from the Vizio as my budget could afford. I am running a Monoprice HDMI from my motorola box and higher end monstor components from my DVD player. I also got a powerstrip with filter (again to what the budget can afford).

The only glitch I have seen is that SD sometimes freezes briefly. Has that happened to anyone? I have the singnal split to a small TV, but that is the only thing I can think of!

Thank you to OnlookerDelay for the calibration settings I am going to plug those in tonight! Does anyone else have settings that are working for them??

I received my replacement TV today. Vizio said it would be delivered in 5 business days, but it took 8 days. I received 'white glove service' in which the delivery people took down my old set, packaged it, and set up my new one. I also had the same random shut down problem, and it made wild clicking noises while in standby mode. The old serial # was G08. My new serial # is G07!? I expected to get a TV w/a higher #. This makes me think that I received a refurbished one, too. But like you said, I rather get a working one than gamble by exchanging it for another at the store.

Has anyone had problems w/their replacement TV??

I called up vizio today and the technical representative (Kenneth) told me it would be a brand new unit. did they give you a set time that they would come out or did you have to stay at home all day?

I called up vizio today and the technical representative (Kenneth) told me it would be a brand new unit. did they give you a set time that they would come out or did you have to stay at home all day?

The local trucking co. they contract out to called me directly to give me a 3 hr. window of 9am-11am. Since I was the 1st delivery of the day, they came exactly at 9am.

hmm... then is there a vizio representative that comes out with the "local trucking co"? I thought they install it for you too? (not like I need that though)

hmm... then is there a vizio representative that comes out with the "local trucking co"? I thought they install it for you too? (not like I need that though)

no one from vizio present, only the contract delivery people. they might have other installation services, but in this case all they did was take the new tv out of the box and lift it onto my tv stand (which was great b/c this 5'2" chick couldn't have done it alone). they hooked up my cable only and turned on the tv to see if it worked.

I just started to notice on my set that the SD picture goes out of focus every couple of minutes. Mine is run thru the comcast HD dvr box. This occurs thru HDMI or Component cable. Does anyone know if this could be a set problem or just a cable box problem? I have not noticed this in HD or analog mode.

THE samsung codes in deirect tv work for the Vizio 42 HD

Optimal settings will vary for everyone depending on source material, input mode, lighting conditions and personal preferences.

For me, I like the default user settings for component, which I use for DVD. For HDMI, I found that the following produces a superb picture (off a Comcast hi-def box):

Brightness: 48
Contrast: 75
Color: 36
Tone: 55
Sharpness: 50

Again, everyone's experience will be different.

Overall, I gotta say I love this TV (mine's a G06 build). Been living with it for three problem-free months, and once I got the above settings down, the PQ has been stunning. Still don't know why it displays so poorly in-store. But who cares?

Optimal settings will vary for everyone depending on source material, input mode, lighting conditions and personal preferences.

For me, I like the default user settings for component, which I use for DVD. For HDMI, I found that the following produces a superb picture (off a Comcast hi-def box):

Brightness: 48
Contrast: 75
Color: 36
Tone: 55
Sharpness: 50

Again, everyone's experience will be different.

Overall, I gotta say I love this TV (mine's a G06 build). Been living with it for three problem-free months, and once I got the above settings down, the PQ has been stunning. Still don't know why it displays so poorly in-store. But who cares?

Thanks for posting the above. We virtually have the exact same set up. I'll make my adjustments according to yours and see if I get optimal performance as well. Thanks again and thanks to all those who have also posted their settings...

I received the monoprice.com DVI-HDMI cable today and what an impressive hunk of cable that was compared to the one supplied by Oppo. But wait a minute.

The green sparklies are now joined by flashing green horizontal lines! I cannot tell what resolution I'm in either. The Oppo hangs for a second when the DVI button is pushed and a new blue OPPO screen comes up. Pushing Play gives a different resolution albeit without any designation. Two positions have the sparklies and two do not, but of lesser PQ.

Then to top it all off, one particular DVI button selection results in a black screen forever AND it locks up the whole system, Vizio, and its remote. Still haven't unscrambled that.

Oppo said they'd give me an RMA and evaluate the set. It's going back in the morning. They can keep it, I'm headed to the LG route where we have HDMI-HDMI.

But the Vizio system lock-up bothers me. I can operate the set from the side buttons, but the Remote has no effect. :mad: Anybody else had this locked up remote problem? Ideas?

Tom

Grizzfan ...... my remote died too. Took the remote to C---co and swapped with remote for display. No red light response on top of remote either??? Side controls on Viz worked fine.

The remote simply died. Yes, I swapped batteries. Yes, I selected TV button.

The new "swapped" remote works fine.

I have encountered shutdown problem with my second unit. When flipping through SD broadcast the Viz has shut off. No pattern to shut off. Has happened several times.

Bottom line .... poor workmanship quality with Viis. Two "new" units, and three remotes later I WILL be returning for refund.

I've stayed out of the calibration menu so far. In the standard settings, I go with two sets.

For movie and broadcast television viewing:

Brightness: 48
Contrast: 69
Color: 45
Tint: 51
Sharpness: 0

For video gaming on the XBox 360:

Brightness: 50
Contrast: 70
Color: 46
Tint: 51
Sharpness: 50


I got much better sd performance by going into the factory settings and changing my colors. It seemed to me that the p42 was using to much green.

my color gain settings are:

R gain = 128
G gain = 110
B gain = 110

Leave the rest untouched. It made a big difference in my picture. Although Fox's 24 still gives me some trouble.

Also I found that for SD the NTSC tuner gives me better looking SD

I got much better sd performance by going into the factory settings and changing my colors. It seemed to me that the p42 was using to much green.

my color gain settings are:

R gain = 128
G gain = 110
B gain = 110

Leave the rest untouched. It made a big difference in my picture. Although Fox's 24 still gives me some trouble.

Also I found that for SD the NTSC tuner gives me better looking SD

Thanks for that information kswany! I'll give these settings a go and see if that doesn't resolve some of the problems I'm having the the P42-HDTV's SD performance. I'll report my results here as soon as I get a chance to implement the tweaks.

Most everyone here's been raving about Monoprice, but I too got a nasty case of the green sparklies with their DVI-HDMI cable (connecting a Comcast/Scientific Atlanta HD cable box to my Vizio).

Customer service was great -- they sent me a second one with no exchange and no charge, but the sparklies persisted. So I went back to my original $40 DVI cable and bought V. Inc.'s HDMI adapter (it's the only one that's thin enough to fit next to the audio cables). Lo and behold, no more sparklies.

I got much better sd performance by going into the factory settings and changing my colors. It seemed to me that the p42 was using to much green.

my color gain settings are:

R gain = 128
G gain = 110
B gain = 110

Leave the rest untouched. It made a big difference in my picture. Although Fox's 24 still gives me some trouble.

Also I found that for SD the NTSC tuner gives me better looking SD

when you say leave the rest untouched do you mean the regular menu settings as well?

Optimal settings will vary for everyone depending on source material, input mode, lighting conditions and personal preferences.

For me, I like the default user settings for component, which I use for DVD. For HDMI, I found that the following produces a superb picture (off a Comcast hi-def box):

Brightness: 48
Contrast: 75
Color: 36
Tone: 55
Sharpness: 50

Again, everyone's experience will be different.

Overall, I gotta say I love this TV (mine's a G06 build). Been living with it for three problem-free months, and once I got the above settings down, the PQ has been stunning. Still don't know why it displays so poorly in-store. But who cares?

Thanks for the input. Can you tell me what your factory settings are for HDMI? I too get a greenish push on certain shows (esp. 24).

Steve -

My factory settings for HDMI are:

Brightness: 55
Contrast: 78
Color: 68
Tint: 50
Sharpness: 50

You can reset your settings to factory default via the menu. - Yosh

when you say leave the rest untouched do you mean the regular menu settings as well?


The factory setting menu has more Items than gain. So leave the rest of those settings untouched. Than it is easier to set the regular menu to your tastes. My regular settings are

Brightness = 52
Contrast = 58
Color = 37
tint = 45
sharpness = 25

Steve -

My factory settings for HDMI are:

Brightness: 55
Contrast: 78
Color: 68
Tint: 50
Sharpness: 50

You can reset your settings to factory default via the menu. - Yosh

Thanks Yosh, but I meant your settings in the factory menu. Your (red, green, blue) gain settings and your offset settings when you get into the factory menu. Thanks.

I got much better sd performance by going into the factory settings and changing my colors. It seemed to me that the p42 was using to much green.

my color gain settings are:

R gain = 128
G gain = 110
B gain = 110

Leave the rest untouched. It made a big difference in my picture. Although Fox's 24 still gives me some trouble.

Also I found that for SD the NTSC tuner gives me better looking SD

Thanks for posting these...I tried them and last night I noticed a considerable difference while watching 24.

those of you changing the factory rgb settings, how are you determining if a value is too high or low? are you putting in a calibration disk? I thought you had to access the factory menu in TV mode?

I don't know if this is a problem with the set or the broadcast. Is anyone experiencing problem with KTVU in the SF Bay Area? I'm using an OTA. This is the only channel with the problem. I had this problem since day one, set is only 2 weeks old. When watching a baseball game, the crack of the bat is off you can hear it before seeing contact. When I watch people talk it does not match their lips at all.

I don't know if this is a problem with the set or the broadcast. Is anyone experiencing problem with KTVU in the SF Bay Area? I'm using an OTA. This is the only channel with the problem. I had this problem since day one, set is only 2 weeks old. When watching a baseball game, the crack of the bat is off you can hear it before seeing contact. When I watch people talk it does not match their lips at all.
There is a thread in the HDTV forum dedicated to SF HD feeds. They might be able to answer your question more quickly.

I agree with the advice given by z.mash. The Portland, Oregon forum on HD feed has really been a help to me. Since it only happens on one channel, I'll bet it is the feed and not the set. However, if you could just adjust your set so it does it more, you could get the lottery numbers before they came out. Imagine!

Jay

I got much better sd performance by going into the factory settings and changing my colors. It seemed to me that the p42 was using to much green.

my color gain settings are:

R gain = 128
G gain = 110
B gain = 110

Leave the rest untouched. It made a big difference in my picture. Although Fox's 24 still gives me some trouble.

Also I found that for SD the NTSC tuner gives me better looking SD

These worked great for me kswany... thanks! I do find that the SD quality is more pleasing using them. I'm also happier with the color balance in HD. Good stuff man... I really appreciate it :)

These worked great for me kswany... thanks! I do find that the SD quality is more pleasing using them. I'm also happier with the color balance in HD. Good stuff man... I really appreciate it :)
My buddy's HDTV is way off in picture, the HD pictures look awsome but all other SD channels have too much green...
How do I access the color gain settings, through which menu to change RGB? I will also try to change the RGB settings.

Any help is much appreciated...

Ok ladies, gentlemen and nerds. Drumroll please!

I have what you all have been waiting for, access to the service menu!

Here goes:

Imput set on TV
Turn set off then on with buttons on side of TV
While turning set on or immediately thereafter, push channel up and down buttons at same time on side of TV.
Now, using remote, push menu button, you should get your regular menu up, but there should be a "F" in the bottom right corner of the menu. (This if for factory).
Push menu button on side of TV and hold it for a few seconds. You will now be in service menu.

This is what is looks like:

ADC Calibration
Auto Burn In
R Gain
G Gain
B Gain
R Offset
G Offset
B Offset

I was told to document your default setting before doing anything and not to touch the bottom 3 settings. I dont know what the first 2 settings do, if anyone knows, please advise. Also in the upper right is your version number (N.0.17) and what looks like date 2006.01.21. As of now I havent changed anything. My set is weird. Most shows (HD) are great, but others like "24" the other day have a reddish/violet/greenish aura or rainbow-like look on faces, almost like they are bruised in some scenes: reddish cheeks and lips in others with a slight greenish look to the shadows in the face. I'm interested to know everyone's default settings in factory mode and versions. Also if you calibrate let me know your new settings. Thanks and I hope this is helpful to everyone.


Here again, is the information from a previous poster on how to get into the service menu

those of you changing the factory rgb settings, how are you determining if a value is too high or low? are you putting in a calibration disk? I thought you had to access the factory menu in TV mode?


I used to be a photographer so I have a pretty good eye for color cast. i noticed the greenish cast in the shadow area on the skin, especially on "24". So I checked the colors using Avia's dvd and sure enough it was pushing green. So I reset the factory RGB gain and Voila! The colors are almost dead on according to Avia. TRy the settings out and see what u think

Also I found that for SD the NTSC tuner gives me better looking SD.

Kswany, I'm not sure what you mean here... are you saying that the OTA tuner in the Vizio yields better SD performance than the SD recieved via the DTV/set top box SD?

I finally got around to checking my factory service menu settings. Here is what they were:

R gain - 128
G gain - 121
B gain - 105
R offset - 127
G offset - 124
B offset - 128

In response to forum suggestions, I set the first three like this:

R - 128
G - 110
B - 110

It looks very good, but I will see how it looks on this evenings programs.

Jay

I got much better sd performance by going into the factory settings and changing my colors. It seemed to me that the p42 was using to much green.

my color gain settings are:

R gain = 128
G gain = 110
B gain = 110

Leave the rest untouched. It made a big difference in my picture. Although Fox's 24 still gives me some trouble.

Also I found that for SD the NTSC tuner gives me better looking SD

Thanks for the great post. What are your offset settings in factory menu? I have tried messing around with the gains and your settings are comparable with mine, but I still get greenish, reddish, bluish splotches on faces on some shows. Its really weird, in the same scene I can have one face look great and the other person have this "rainbow/bruising" kind of look. Lowering the blue and green gain definitely helped, but still there in certain scenes. I even watched an old black and white sci fi movie and I could see the reddish/bluish colors. Hate to return the set, very happy otherwise (except for the lack of pop that I had with my 37" LCD).

Once you have made changes in the service menu, how do you turn off service menu mode? I simply powered the TV down and turned it on again. I am still in service menu mode.

I serarched and could not find the answer.

Once you have made changes in the service menu, how do you turn off service menu mode? I simply powered the TV down and turned it on again. I am still in service menu mode.

I serarched and could not find the answer.

When I powered down the set, then repowered it it was not in the service menu any longer. Is yours permanently in the service menu?

Jay

Well, my Polly-Anna-ish ride with my Vizio P42-HDTV might be over. I've been touting its unblemished performance since I bought it on March 20th, but as of two days ago, I'm suffering the woes of a stuck (I say stuck because it's usually either light green or light blue... I'm told dead pixels are black) pixel. I hadn't read of this being a problem with plasmas. A Mag LCD computer monitor I'd bought two years ago had two dead pixels, and I took it back for a replacement.
The pixel is very noticeable when watching SD broadcasts. It's harder to see when watching HD or video gaming with the XBox 360.

I've read that "stuck" pixels can be massaged or "flashed" with a computer color cycling program, and perhaps become "un-stuck". I don't know anything about what type of computer program is designed to afford such a service, but I could hook my PC up to my Viz, if need be.

Have any of you heard of issues like this? I bought the set at Costco, and I'm guessing it's still under their store warranty. I almost hate to have to take it back because it seems like I otherwise have a fairly solid set, as far as Vizios go based on some of the reports I'm reading here.

OnlookerDelay,

Under one of the menus (I can't recall which), there is an option to display a completely white screen. This is supposed to get rid of image retention. Try that and see if it works.

OnlookerDelay,

Under one of the menus (I can't recall which), there is an option to display a completely white screen. This is supposed to get rid of image retention. Try that and see if it works.

I did.... it didn't work. I ran it once for about 30 seconds, and then later for about 2 minutes... no effect either time. I've been warned to avoid using the image cleaner tool too often. Maybe that's an old wives tale? Should I try running it longer? Thanks for the tip though!

I hate this is happening to me now... my Ikea Markor TV Stand is due for delivery today, and it was supposed to cap off my installation. Now I've got a display that has me more anally retentive than I ever thought I'd be over one pixel :o

iirc, the image cleaner will turn off the tv when it's done.
two minutes probably isn't enough.

unfortunately, i don't have the manual here w/ me to look it up.

iirc, the image cleaner will turn off the tv when it's done.
two minutes probably isn't enough.

unfortunately, i don't have the manual here w/ me to look it up.

Ahhhhh... I didn't know that! I'll give it a go and let you know what happens... thanks Icubed!

iirc, the image cleaner will turn off the tv when it's done.
two minutes probably isn't enough.

unfortunately, i don't have the manual here w/ me to look it up.

I left it on for 5 minutes, and it was still cooking away. I found my manual and it didn't mention anything about it timing out after it had ran its course. The stuck pixel is still there, btw... even after 5 minutes.

There's a disclaimer in the manual in the Troubleshooting section that says:

"... some pixels on your Plasma TV may not display. Pixel defects within industry specifications are inherent with this type of product and do not constitute a defective product"

So, I guess they've got their derriers covered with that statement.... <sigh> I thought this sort of thing showed up right out of the gate though. I bet I've got 350 hours on this set before this problem surfaced.

I have a question for all of you. Have you bought the extended (3~5 years) warranty for this Vizio 42HDTV? Do you think it is worth to spend $350 to have the extended 5-year warranty?

I have a question for all of you. Have you bought the extended (3~5 years) warranty for this Vizio 42HDTV? Do you think it is worth to spend $350 to have the extended 5-year warranty?

I didn't consider it. I'm guessing I'll keep this set 5/6 years before I'm ready to can it anyway. All I've got is the manufacturers and Costco warranty, which I figured would cover the sort of anticipated catastrophic failures.

I was able to get into the service menu for the first time, but I can not get back in now. Following the same steps, but when I press the side button for
menu, on screen menu goes away.

What am I doing wrong. I got in only once but can't get in service menu anymore.
Any one else have that problem?

I was able to get into the service menu for the first time, but I can not get back in now. Following the same steps, but when I press the side button for
menu, on screen menu goes away.

What am I doing wrong. I got in only once but can't get in service menu anymore.
Any one else have that problem?

I haven't had a problem getting back in... I just hold both of the channel buttons in while powering back up, rather than trying to push them right after pushing the power button.

I was able to get into the service menu for the first time, but I can not get back in now. Following the same steps, but when I press the side button for
menu, on screen menu goes away.

What am I doing wrong. I got in only once but can't get in service menu anymore.
Any one else have that problem?

Jazzy,

I had a few unsuccessful tries to open the service menu, but i got it afterward. Here are the steps:

1) Power off your set. It doesn't matter what input (DTV, TV, HDMI, etc...) you were in
2) Push and hold down both of the Ch + and CH - buttons on the side of the TV, and now push on the Power button on the side of the TV and hold all 3 buttons for about 2 secs then release all 3 of them.
3) Now you can either use the remote or the side of the TV, press the Menu button and hold it for about 1 sec or 2 until you see the Service Menu diplayed on the screen. This is the part that people miss as I did the first time. By the way, if you did step 2) right, your Menu now has the letter "F" displayed on the bottom right corner of your Menu screen.

Hope this helps and good luck!

Govee

I didn't consider it. I'm guessing I'll keep this set 5/6 years before I'm ready to can it anyway. All I've got is the manufacturers and Costco warranty, which I figured would cover the sort of anticipated catastrophic failures.

What is the difference between the manufacturer warranty and the Costco warranty for Vizio 42HDTV? As I know, the manufacturer provide one year labor and part warranty. How about the Costo warranty? Do I need to purchase the addtional Costco warranty?

I have just bought this TV like 2 weeks ago i am very happy with it and everything is working
fine. But reacnetley as of yesterday popping noise comes out of speakers just like short pop. i don't know what could it be i live in bay area and it has been hot lately could that be the possibility or is it something else that could be fixed or is it gonna go away by it self or i should consider exchange it for another one. thank you and this forum kicks ass

Yes, my menu does have the 'F' in the lower right hand corner.
It is always there now.

So, right after powering up with the channel (+ ) and (- ) held down, from the side buttons, press and hold 'menu' for few seconds and that will get me into
service menu?

I've been pressing menu on the remote, then pressing and holding down the menu button on the side. ( that would make the menu go away )

Funny to hear you use the word 'popping' to describe the sound. I haven't posted this, but ever since I purchased the TV during March Madness, when it is powered down, about 20 seconds later it farts. That's the best I can describe it! After sticking my ear close up to the TV, one can easily hear it's coming from the onboard speakers. Never really meant much to me as I use my 7.2 setup for all my watching and listening, plus it always seems to gives me a chuckle. That's the 4th grader in me I guess.

I got it too, except mine's more of a sigh.

i get that too after i turn it of lkie 10 sec later it makes that "fart" noise

Have had my set since March 20. Buzzes like a mutha. Audible from 30 feet. I live at 5,500 feet. Tech support thinks I am approaching the altitude limit. Any others have buzzing who live at around 5,000 feet.

Related note:
There are some commercially targeted Plasmas like some of the NEC monitors that are rated for high altitudes. I think that many/most of the consumer oriented Plasmas may experience the buzzing noise that you might be experiencing.

Well, my Polly-Anna-ish ride with my Vizio P42-HDTV might be over. I've been touting its unblemished performance since I bought it on March 20th, but as of two days ago, I'm suffering the woes of a stuck (I say stuck because it's usually either light green or light blue... I'm told dead pixels are black) pixel. I hadn't read of this being a problem with plasmas. A Mag LCD computer monitor I'd bought two years ago had two dead pixels, and I took it back for a replacement.

onlooker, i'm sorry to hear about the stuck pixel.. but are you familiar with the break in cd/dvd? it cycles through solid colors infinitely.. i'm betting that is what you need to do in order to massage the pixel.

here is the thread where you can download it along with instructions on how to burn it if you are not familiar -

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6230381&&#post6230381

What is the difference between the manufacturer warranty and the Costco warranty for Vizio 42HDTV? As I know, the manufacturer provide one year labor and part warranty. How about the Costo warranty? Do I need to purchase the addtional Costco warranty?

The Costco warranty is inherent with the purchase. If I understand correctly, I can bring the set back if I'm not satisfied with it, for quite a while. I guess I could take advantage of that and get the new JVC D-ILA, 52" G787, which is what I really wanted but didn't think would be released as soon as it was. I wouldn't feel right about doing it though, unless I have problems with it that are recognized as legitimate problems. My stuck pixel isn't enough to meet that standard.

onlooker, i'm sorry to hear about the stuck pixel.. but are you familiar with the break in cd/dvd? it cycles through solid colors infinitely.. i'm betting that is what you need to do in order to massage the pixel.

here is the thread where you can download it along with instructions on how to burn it if you are not familiar -

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6230381&&#post6230381

Thanks bump909... I've heard of the break-in CD. I'll give it a go, couldn't hurt. Thanks for the tip and I'll let you know how it goes.

no problem, and just so you know.. i've test it myself and left my dvd player running the disc for over 18 hours straight at a time when i was breaking in my vizio. so you need not worry about leaving this running for a while to see if it will fix that pixel. i'm sure you're just looking for an excuse to get that jvc at this point anyways. :p

Have had my set since March 20. Buzzes like a mutha. Audible from 30 feet. I live at 5,500 feet. Tech support thinks I am approaching the altitude limit. Any others have buzzing who live at around 5,000 feet.

Mine also buzzes. Everything I have read says anything under 6000 is ok. I am SLC, Utah and I think we are somewhere around 4600 ft. or so. I wouldn't think that the sets would be available in certain markets if they don't work correctly at that altitude. For instance, can you buy one in Vail or Park City?

no problem, and just so you know.. i've test it myself and left my dvd player running the disc for over 18 hours straight at a time when i was breaking in my vizio. so you need not worry about leaving this running for a while to see if it will fix that pixel. i'm sure you're just looking for an excuse to get that jvc at this point anyways. :p

Will this affect/improve the quality of the picture or is this just to get through burn in period? I still get weird blueish/redddish/rainbowish hues in certain scenes. My configuring has helped but its very weird. Anyone else get this?

I think that's just for the burn in period. But you should get a calibration cd to help with the picture.

Uh oh. Set turned off twice by itself last nite. Is this the beginning of the end? Anyone know of any new sets on the horizon from Vizio?

Uh oh. Set turned off twice by itself last nite. Is this the beginning of the end? Anyone know of any new sets on the horizon from Vizio?

call them up and ask for a replacement asap. I waited it out because it wasn't so bad... and then it became bad.

Big thumbs up from Ultimate AV. Says black levels are comparable to best plasmas on the market (!), and color levels are nearly perfect out of the box (confirming Sound and Vision's review). In fact, calibration actually hurt PQ, tester says, so stay out of the service menu! Only negative: the tuner.

Here's the link:

http://ultimateavmag.com/flatpaneldisplays/506vizio/index.html

Anyone knows a good universal remote control that can drive this Vizio 42"?

I don't mean the very expensive one, but rather in the reasonable price range (may be less than $60).

Thanks,
Govee

I use the predecessor to the Sony-VL710 (http://www.remotecentral.com/vl710/index.html), and it works great. Only $35, and it has full learning capabilities.

Speaking of remotes, has anyone gotten the Xbox 360 remote to operate the Vizio power and volume controls?

Big thumbs up from Ultimate AV. Says black levels are comparable to best plasmas on the market (!), and color levels are nearly perfect out of the box (confirming Sound and Vision's review). In fact, calibration actually hurt PQ, tester says, so stay out of the service menu! Only negative: the tuner.

Here's the link:



Thanks for posting the review. Glad to see that I'm not the only one perplexed by the tuner's performance. For both QAM and OTA, I have not been able to lock as many channels as with a previous set. Also, not having the signal strength makes antenna adjustment a big pain.

I just picked my set up last week. I struggled between this and the 37" LCD, but the increased size was worth the price difference. Just found out about a promotion on the 37" tho, so I am going back to compare one more time.

I have discovered that the AC POWER INPUT on the rear of the set works loose, and if you remove it and reseat it, the "random powering off" goes away... for a while... The cord does seem to work itself loose every few weeks, might need to wire tie it up or rig up something to keep any weight off it, so it does not unplug itself. Give that a try, I think you will find your power off issue diminishes greatly.

Mitch

Uh oh. Set turned off twice by itself last nite. Is this the beginning of the end? Anyone know of any new sets on the horizon from Vizio?

I got this TV recently and have only one complaint:

When I switch from HDMI to Component 1 or Component 2 or TV inputs, the volume level is drastically different (much lower) and I have to jack up the volume to hear what's going on. Then, if I switch back to HDMI, the volume is now too high and I have to rush to my remote to lower the volume back to non-earsplitting levels.

So, basically, the sound levels don't seem to be consistent among all the different inputs. If I am switching between a game on HDTV (HDMI input) and on regular TV (TV input), I have to keep messing with the volume to make sure that the audio is at the right level.

Anybody else have this problem and know how to deal with it?

I got this TV recently and have only one complaint:

When I switch from HDMI to Component 1 or Component 2 or TV inputs, the volume level is drastically different (much lower) and I have to jack up the volume to hear what's going on. Then, if I switch back to HDMI, the volume is now too high and I have to rush to my remote to lower the volume back to non-earsplitting levels.

So, basically, the sound levels don't seem to be consistent among all the different inputs. If I am switching between a game on HDTV (HDMI input) and on regular TV (TV input), I have to keep messing with the volume to make sure that the audio is at the right level.

Anybody else have this problem and know how to deal with it?

I have noticed this also when going from DTV to Cable. I believe, in my case, it is caused by the fact that the cable box has a sound setting separate from the TV. I am going to experiment with these settings to get them evened out.

Jay

The speakers on this TV just stink. The off air tuner isn't that great either.

However, I've got an 06 (I don't mean 2006) model and I haven't experienced any of the problems stated in this thread. I am very happy with it. It does a much better job with SD then my last HDTV.

Speaking of remotes, has anyone gotten the Xbox 360 remote to operate the Vizio power and volume controls?

For anyone interested, Samsung code 0005 works.

If you're using a DVI to HDMI connection, you need to go into the audio section of the user menu and check off "DVI"

Anyone ever use the normal viewing mode for SD TV for extended periods of time? My family normally watches program material in the 4x3 SD mode however when we watch programming in the 16x9 format we can tell the center area of the picture is darker and the outer edges are nice and bright. It sure seams like wearing of the pixels. I know there is a bright white setting on the TV to clear this up and the problem is even more pronounced. I was wondering if anyone has had this problem and if the bright white screen actually corrects this problem.

Joe.

I've seen this on mine as well when I watch 4:3 material for a few hours. When I switch back to full screen mode, the very slight wear area goes away after a few minutes. I haven't noticed any "real" wear patterns or "burn ins" anywhere after about 1 month of use.

Returned my first Vizio 42HDTV to Costco because it buzzed really loudly. Got in-store credit and bought another of the same model. Came home, plugged it in. No bad buzzing. Yippeee.

BUT, hooked up HDMI cable from by Comcast HDTV box, same box and same cable as I used with no problems on the first Vizio 42HDTV set, and the set indicated in text there were some issues and a green screen showed up. Turned the TV off and then on again and the HD picture and sound came on briefly, then back to green screen. A little later some audio came through with the green screen. Unplugged and tried again, but from then on it just shows "no signal" on a black screen.

Ugh!

Any thoughts?

I've recently purchased a Philips 5960/37 upscaling Divx DVD player.
Hooking it up was fairly easy. It has three ways to hook up the unit, standard video, component and HDMI digital. I bought this unit so that I could test the HDMI port of my P42 so that is the option I chose use. The setup seems to sense which port you use and highlights the appropriate selections for it. The setup menus are fairly extensive and allow you to alter everything from resolution, color and aspect ratio to whether you jpeg slide show has music or not.

My experience so far:

1. My hook up to the P42 via the HDMI so far is flawless. No recognition problems or the green sparklies that others have had. I tested the upscaling with "March of the Penguins" @ 720p the video was sharp and colors were accurate. I didn't get any artifacts in dark areas that I was expecting. Since my surround sound is not hooked up I couldn't test for that. The stereo sound was crisp without any crackling or hiss.

2. My Divx experience is about 90% good. I've watched a number of movies encoded in divx and xvid. All the divx encoded movies play without flaw. The fast fwd and rev and the the slow motion operate smoothly. The color and resolution are great and mirror my pc monitor. It's the xvid where the adventure lies. I've had a couple of xvid movies that played normally but an index counter display remained throughout whole movie. There was a couple of xvid's that stuttered and were completely unplayable even though they were normal on my pc. I've searched for these errors and have no idea the reason behind these anomalies

3. I've used the upscaling feature for viewing jpegs.The quality is pretty good for viewing picture cd's. As far as mp3's go I couldn't locate whether or not it would recognize playlist burned onto the cd with the songs.

All in all I was very impressed with the functionality and performance of the deck. And since it was less than $100 at BB I am ecstatic.

I recently purchased a Vizio 42 HDTV and love it. I'm not much of an video expert, however, and was wondering if someone could give me some quick advice on the settings for my cable box. I have a Motorola 6412 III from Comcast and it is hooked up to my Vizio with an HDMI cable. What setting on the cable box should I choose for TV Type and DVI Output? Currently I have it set at 16:9 and 1080i. Thanks in advance.

You can check between 1080i and 720p to see what you prefer. I think the 720p is supposed to have a better picture (at least with sports) so that is what mine is set to, but I had a hard time telling the difference between the two.

Big price drop on the 50" Vizio a week or so ago at JAX Costco. PM for what I paid.

Big price drop on the 50" Vizio a week or so ago at JAX Costco. PM for what I paid.

Tremendous price on that one boca. I used the 50" Vizio at Costco to form my original opinion on their product. It actually has more desirable features than the 42" set for what I'm after (the motion filters and the added screen sizing options.

I think I would still go for the new 52" JVC HD-ILA (G787) instead though. I'm very taken with its vibrant, yet accurate PQ, particularly with the optical iris in ths new series. I can get it for $105 less (factoring in no tax from the source I have in mind, but adding the shipping). Overall, I'm satisfied with the picture quality and performance of my Vizio P42-HDTV, but it's too small for my application. I should have paid attention to the screen selection charts.... they recommend a 50-52" screen for 12' to 13', and it would be a perfect fit.

onlooker, i'm sorry to hear about the stuck pixel.. but are you familiar with the break in cd/dvd? it cycles through solid colors infinitely.. i'm betting that is what you need to do in order to massage the pixel.

here is the thread where you can download it along with instructions on how to burn it if you are not familiar -

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6230381&&#post6230381

I grabbed the SVCD version and made a disk with it... unfortunately, I'm using an XBox 360 as my DVD player for the Vizio, and it doesn't work with SVCDs. I don't have a DVD burner, so I'm outta luck there also. I'll see if I can't get a friend to burn me a DVD version and give it a go.

I got this TV recently and have only one complaint:

When I switch from HDMI to Component 1 or Component 2 or TV inputs, the volume level is drastically different (much lower) and I have to jack up the volume to hear what's going on. Then, if I switch back to HDMI, the volume is now too high and I have to rush to my remote to lower the volume back to non-earsplitting levels.

So, basically, the sound levels don't seem to be consistent among all the different inputs. If I am switching between a game on HDTV (HDMI input) and on regular TV (TV input), I have to keep messing with the volume to make sure that the audio is at the right level.

Anybody else have this problem and know how to deal with it?

I have the exact same problem, thinking of calling Vizio about this. Also i have problems tuning FOX HD with the QAM tuner which i'm gonna ask them about.

/Chris

I recently replaced this "42, with the vizio "50. No comparison. Deep blacks, more acurate colors, Faroudja chip for SD programming, popping HD,the list goes on...
Very dissapointed with vizio's efforts on this "42 panel

I recently replaced this "42, with the vizio "50. No comparison. Deep blacks, more acurate colors, Faroudja chip for SD programming, popping HD,the list goes on...
Very dissapointed with vizio's efforts on this "42 panel

Thanks for weighing in leiff. I have been mostly disappointed in the SD performance of the 42", but it's mostly due to a washed out look. Does the Faroudja help any with vibrance on SD? Theoretically, it should help with clarity and clean up some animation blur.

Let me add that my SD experience varies widely.... from nearly intolerable on ESPN News, to approaching brilliant on the National Geographic Channel. In most cases however, I would prefer to watch SD on my 32" SD CRT. National Geographic channel is among maybe a half dozen which look better on the Viz.

I recently replaced this "42, with the vizio "50. No comparison. Deep blacks, more acurate colors, Faroudja chip for SD programming, popping HD,the list goes on...
Very dissapointed with vizio's efforts on this "42 panelAnd you also posted this in the Vizio P50HD Thread:
I see blue in my white's. Can someone please share service menu fix for this and any others that may have yielded signifigant improvment.Thanks much..So if your P50 is so much better, why does it require "significant improvement"? :rolleyes:

My 42 kept shutting down again last nite. Unplugged it for a couple of hours, was ok after that. Called customer service and he said it has nothing to do with electrical in my house. He said internal parts are from LG. Told me to return or have repaired. He gave me a release date of June 28th for 50" with QAM tuner.

Did he give you a MSRP for the 50" with tuner?

Nope

My first Vizio 42HDTV hummed like crazy (though it had a fine picture). Took it back. Got another. No humm. BUT set No. 2 had problems connecting to HDMI. Tech support said it was my box, a Motorola. Then the component hook up went dead last nnight and reads no signal, just as HDMI did. Composite video is the only input that now works. And my picture is not as vibrant as the first set. Tried a new set top box and cable to make sure. No difference.

Bummed.

Set No. 2 is going back tonight.

After going 0 for 2, I do not have the patience to be lugging home and setting up a third set. I think I will pick up a Philips tomorrow.

I would have to say, given my problems, and those stated here in this forum, I have very little respect for Vizio quality and reliability

My first Vizio 42HDTV hummed like crazy (though it had a fine picture). Took it back. Got another. No humm. BUT set No. 2 had problems connecting to HDMI. Tech support said it was my box, a Motorola. Then the component hook up went dead last nnight and reads no signal, just as HDMI did. Composite video is the only input that now works. And my picture is not as vibrant as the first set. Tried a new set top box and cable to make sure. No difference.

Bummed.

Set No. 2 is going back tonight.

After going 0 for 2, I do not have the patience to be lugging home and setting up a third set. I think I will pick up a Philips tomorrow.

I would have to say, given my problems, and those stated here in this forum, I have very little respect for Vizio quality and reliability


Man I'm glad I got my set early and lucky I've had no problems with my set. If I'd have seen all the problems with these sets then I would have bypassed Vizio. Normally I am a name brand guy, especially when I am spending this kind of money. My set has been nearly flawless. Excuse me I have to go find some wood to knock on :)

My first Vizio 42HDTV hummed like crazy (though it had a fine picture). Took it back. Got another. No humm. BUT set No. 2 had problems connecting to HDMI. Tech support said it was my box, a Motorola. Then the component hook up went dead last nnight and reads no signal, just as HDMI did. Composite video is the only input that now works. And my picture is not as vibrant as the first set. Tried a new set top box and cable to make sure. No difference.

Bummed.

Set No. 2 is going back tonight.

After going 0 for 2, I do not have the patience to be lugging home and setting up a third set. I think I will pick up a Philips tomorrow.

I would have to say, given my problems, and those stated here in this forum, I have very little respect for Vizio quality and reliability

My set has been working flawlessly however I do have concerns of reliability. It appears too many people are having problems with this set. I would like to know what the actual percentage of set failures and what those failures are. I'm starting to think about an upgrade because 3 months from now or even a year from now I don't fancy my set breaking. I don't know what the return policy is on this item but I figure it's in my best interest to move on this soon.

My set has been working flawlessly however I do have concerns of reliability. It appears too many people are having problems with this set. I would like to know what the actual percentage of set failures and what those failures are. I'm starting to think about an upgrade because 3 months from now or even a year from now I don't fancy my set breaking. I don't know what the return policy is on this item but I figure it's in my best interest to move on this soon.

I feel the same way. So far, so good but I'll admit that I'm in cautious mode. Instead of being confident and relaxed, I'm watching my unit closely to see if it'll turn off unexpectedly or some other malfunction. Especially after reading all the complications experienced by some of you. Return policy is good for about 3 more months so if its gonna go out, it better do it now.

The picutre quality of LG 511 is very poor. Too much smoothing causes the image losing details.It looks like there are tons of makeup on everyone's face in the image. Really bad PQ! It may relate to the poor upconversion algorihtm and cheap video DAC (only 10bit/27 MHz) and audio DAC (24bit 96 MHz).

Just bought a Samsung HD850 (video DAC 10bit/54 Mhz, audio DAC 24bit/192 Mhz) from ebay for about $70. The picture quality of this samsung HD850 is much better than that of LG 511. Besides, much cheaper too. The picture quality of HD850 is same as the upscale version HD950. The HD850 just lacks of DVD-audio and SACD support. So why spend $200 on 950 insteday of a $70 refurb 850 if DVD watching is your primary focus.

I have compared Oppo 751 , LG 511, Samsung 850 and Philips 5960 with my Vizio 42HDTV via HDMI connection. The Oppo 751 has the best PQ but has random green sparkles problem due to DVI to HDMI connnection on Vizio side (I know it is Vizio problem not Oppo problem .But I keep the vizio and send the Oppo back to Amaz*n). LG 511 (~$99 for open box) has the worst PQ (so it is back to BB right after I test the samsung 850). The Samsung HD850 has the best performance/price ratio and PQ is good enough. I have also tried new Philips 5960 but the HDMI output does NOT work at all (so it is back to CC). I cannot believe that this cheap Philips one (~$70 for NEW) has the highest scores at CNET review. Just remind you that you get what you paid.

I have compared Oppo 751 , LG 511, Samsung 850 and Philips 5960 with my Vizio 42HDTV via HDMI connection. The Oppo 751 has the best PQ but has random green sparkles problem due to DVI to HDMI connnection on Vizio side (I know it is Vizio problem not Oppo problem .But I keep the vizio and send the Oppo back to Amaz*n). LG 511 (~$99 for open box) has the worst PQ (so it is back to BB right after I test the samsung 850). The Samsung HD850 has the best performance/price ratio and PQ is good enough. I have also tried new Philips 5960 but the HDMI output does NOT work at all (so it is back to CC). I cannot believe that this cheap Philips one (~$70 for NEW) has the highest scores at CNET review. Just remind you that you get what you paid.

That's odd I bought the philips 5960/37 and it has worked flawlessly with the P42 via the HDMI cable. I found that the PQ was very good and the only issue I had was some xvid videos would not play correctly. The P42 quality control really varies from set to set

The picutre quality of LG 511 is very poor. Too much smoothing causes the image losing details.It looks like there are tons of makeup on everyone's face in the image. Really bad PQ! It may relate to the poor upconversion algorihtm and cheap video DAC (only 10bit/27 MHz) and audio DAC (24bit 96 MHz).

I have just installed my LG LDX514 upconverting DVD Player/ VCR and, out of the box watched 15 minutes each of "March of the Penguins", "Phantom of the Opera" and "We Were Soldiers" on DVDs. I returned my Oppo last month for full refund and ordered the 514 on eBay. I am presuming that the 514 is the same as the 511 with the VCR added. The PQ is excellent with only a bit of graininess in "We Were Soldiers" and no excess smoothing as described by John Dean 123 on any of them. "Penguins" was, totally without green sparklies and of excellent PQ. (I disagree with Dean's assertion that the HDMI-DVI lashup leading to sparklies is Vizio's fault. It was Oppo had the ancient DVI connection!!) Faces were natural and detailed and I'm still running things in suppressed mode as far as contrast, brightness etc goes.

So, tomorrow I'll fiddle with my 5.1 speaker system and read the LG LDX514 manual.

BTW a golf tournement on CBS in 1080i really sucked PQ-wise. Why can't the all do them like the Masters?!!?

Thank a soldier. Visit one's gravesite and say the words outloud. Happy Memorial Day.

Tom

I bought a $100 Toshiba upconverting dvd player and hooked it up through a 5x1 hdmi switch and the picture looks great. I don't plan on spending a lot on a dvd player with all the changes going on. Now I just need a few more devices to hook up with the tv by hdmi :)

[EDIT]. Mine has been running flawlessly and has a great picture on OTA with my CM4228 antenna in the attic. Also, some of the channels on cable look almost HD. Some of the cable channels are very mediocre however. One thing that is surprising is that not very many people understand how much and how good OTA HDTV is. Many of them think they have to subscribe to cable or satellite to get good HDTV. Overall, I am very happy I bought this TV.

Jay

Mine has been working great. Don't blame visio for poor SD performance. Really compared to HD, SD pretty much sucks on any HDTV, even my coveted Panny.

Has anyone noticed that the more this unit plays the better the color seems to get? When I first got it the SD really sucked. After about 200 hrs the picture colors seem to be getting better. It seems that I can push the color a little bit more without going radio active

Has anyone noticed that the more this unit plays the better the color seems to get? When I first got it the SD really sucked. After about 200 hrs the picture colors seem to be getting better. It seems that I can push the color a little bit more without going radio activeWho knows, maybe you're right. But more likely you've simple adjusted your paradigm of what looks good to what you've been seeing these last couple of months. It's simply human nature to grow more comfortable with the familiar.

There were similar posts in the early days of this thread from others who likewise saw mysterious "improvements" over time. See my earlier post here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7329033&&#post7329033) .

Which one is better of the two:

1. Vizio P42HDTV
2. Samsung HL-R5087W (50" DLP with Pedestal)

I already have the Vizio but I am planning to retun it in Costco to get the Samsung DLP w/Pedestal.

I am never going to mount the TV on the wall.

Is it a good idea to return the Vizio and get the Samsung instead?

Who knows, maybe you're right. But more likely you've simple adjusted your paradigm of what looks good to what you've been seeing these last couple of months. It's simply human nature to grow more comfortable with the familiar.

There were similar posts in the early days of this thread from others who likewise saw mysterious "improvements" over time. See my earlier post here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7329033&&#post7329033) .

I ask because certain channels that were terrible (Espn , FOX) are now more acceptable. My eye is pretty good with colors (all that darkroom time), I watch video on more that one source. I use my LCD on my desktop and I have a gateway notebook. I know that displays will change over time that's why people that work with photos or print calibrate their monitors all the time. Since this is my first plasma I was curious if my observations were shared by anyone else. Also I see this display varies in performance from set to set, so I who knows it might have a break in period

I ask because certain channels that were terrible (Espn , FOX) are now more acceptable.Could it be just a change in the signal quality (less compression) by your content provider?

My eye is pretty good with colors (all that darkroom time), I watch video on more that one source. I use my LCD on my desktop and I have a gateway notebook.It's good to have a fixed reference when making comparisions. I trust your judgement better knowing you're making a relative, not absolute, observation.

I know that displays will change over time that's why people that work with photos or print calibrate their monitors all the time. Since this is my first plasma I was curious if my observations were shared by anyone else.True enough, but again because of the relative differences between what-you-see on screen and what-you-get with the printed photo. On an absolute basis, I don't think most people could notice a change in a monitor by just looking at it.

Also I see this display varies in performance from set to set, so I who knows it might have a break in periodI'm curious to know how you determined this display "varies in performance from set to set." Simply having different people with different expectations post different impressions on PQ does not a study make.

I ask because certain channels that were terrible (Espn , FOX) are now more acceptable. My eye is pretty good with colors (all that darkroom time), I watch video on more that one source. I use my LCD on my desktop and I have a gateway notebook. I know that displays will change over time that's why people that work with photos or print calibrate their monitors all the time. Since this is my first plasma I was curious if my observations were shared by anyone else. Also I see this display varies in performance from set to set, so I who knows it might have a break in period

Chances are you signal strength got better.

The strength of your analog signal makes a huge diff. Probably easiest way to check is checking your cable modem where it shows your cable sig. quality. If it's way below 0, you'll have to push your cable provide to install amplifier in your neighbor block.

I had similar experience. In my case, it was extremely bad sig. since it was like -11 or so as it enters my house, then losing -3 whenever it split.

First, I complained to cable tv support, bad choice, was being pushed around with hold&transfer.

Second, complained to cable modem internet support, complained about losing internet connection w/ weak signal. Fixed the very next day. And Great analog channel PQ!

Chances are you signal strength got better.

The strength of your analog signal makes a huge diff.The original poster referenced ESPN and FOX (as in mayby 24?), so I'm guessing he was referring to HD broadcasts. In that event, signal strenght wouldn't explain the changes he described. Digital is an all or nothing proposition. You go from perfect (or at least as good as it gets) to heavy pixelation to picture freeze to loss of signal pretty fast.

The original poster referenced ESPN and FOX (as in mayby 24?), so I'm guessing he was referring to HD broadcasts. In that event, signal strenght wouldn't explain the changes he described. Digital is an all or nothing proposition. You go from perfect (or at least as good as it gets) to heavy pixelation to picture freeze to loss of signal pretty fast.

You might be right. But in my case, ESPN and FOX found on analog 35 & 55/56 and you can only get ESPN HD via either cablecard or HD cable box, I just automatically asumed it was direct analog feed via NTSC tuner.

BTW, I've noticed in case of ESPN HD, there's huge diff. in each diff. program. Some looked great; some looked horrible even in HD.

BTW, there's some key seq. that shows lots of details about signals for each cable box which I found over the cable guy's shoulder. Now that it's been a while since I've switched to D*tv, I forgot. Maybe someone can chip in that key seq. Anyhow, after they got this amplifier installed and boosted the sig. strength from -11 db to +3 to the outside cablebox, that made huge diff. for everything.

I've had my Vizio since the first week of the sale, and haven't had the shut down until last week. But I was able imediatly turn it back on. Stayed on .

Then a few days ago, it shut down again, within 5 - 20 mins of turn on. Turned right back on and it was fine. Then just today after about 10 mins it shut down, followed by the loud relays clicking on and off about 3-5 times. Now it will not turn on. How long do I have to unplug it till it turn on?

Looks like this set is going back to the store

Mine had the shutdowns a few weeks ago. I bought mine the first week also. Was ready to take it back. Unplugged it for an hour or so, plugged it back in and it hasnt happened again since then. I still have some picture quality issues, so I may return it for the new 50 with tuners when it comes out. Although the current 50 has its share of issues too. Never thought buying a TV would be so complicated.

Just an update to my shut off problem. Had the plug out all night and all day,
plugged the 42 back in and it still will not turn on. Prior shut offs, I was able to turn it immediatly back on. IT is going back to the warehouse.

TV has under 100 hours on it.

Manufacture date Feb 2006

That's what did it for me, after a while gravity pulls on the cord, and it gets a little loose, causes the power down problem, either that or oxide is building up on the contact, and reseating it fixed the issue.. Either way, my problem disappeared after doing the reseating of the AC cord trick. :-)

Mitch

As I posted earlier, I recently purchased a Vizio 42 HDTV. I'm not much of an video expert, however, and was wondering if someone could give me some quick advice on the settings for my cable box. I have a Motorola 6412 III from Comcast and it is hooked up to my Vizio with an HDMI cable. Based on the advice I received on this forum I switched the setting from 1080i to 780p and the picture does seem better. My next question is, what setting should I use for the tv type? My choices are 4:3 letterbox; 4:3 panscan; and 16:9.

This choice also seems to be complicated by the TV itself offering normal, wide and zoom settings. I never use zoom, but I use wide most of the time otherwise my picture is never in the wide view that I thought was standard for HDTV programming - which makes me think my cable box setting is wrong. I would think that the TV should always be set to normal unless you want the extra effect of what wide or zoom offers - but maybe I am wrong.

I realize this question is very basic for this forum and probably irritates many of you (who have made it this far). So, if no one wants to take the time to help me with my settings, can someone point me to an article or two that would help - "HDTV settings for Dummies"??

As to the performance, after 2 months I still love the tv. No buzzing or intermittent power issues. The only issue I have experienced to date is that when changing channels from regular programming to HDTV, there tends to be a 1 or 2 second delay while the tv (or cable box?) adjusts to the signal.

Thanks in advance for your attention and consideration. -Trever

Trever,

At this point it's all a matter of preference. Whether you don't mind viewing 4:3 material stretched or not is up to you. The 6412 does a pretty good job of stretching the image without making 4:3 content look too wide when used in 16:9 mode, imho. As for the TV setting, I'm pretty sure that "wide" mode is it's "native" setting and is what should be used, although it's been a while since I've had to play with the settings. Maybe someone else can chime in.

- Jon

Update to shut off problem..

Returned the 42 to C*****. I told them it started shutting down about a week ago and now it will not turn back on. So then they plugged in the cord and guess what!

I was all ready to see it turn on , so when the on button was pressed....

Nothing, it did not turn on. Received a full refund. Still holding the money, can't get myself to purchase another one for fear of the same thing happening.


For those who can just reseat the power cord, you are lucky. Oxidation on the contacts?? How can that happen so quickly and so thick as to restrict AC electrons. I'm not buying it. It's got to be cheap and inferior relays or circuit boards causing the shut down.

I think the main TV is fine, The manufacture just went real cheap on some components. I really thought for the money the TV was fine. But if it can't stay on, what good is the " good deal" pricing.

Anyone care to add their 2 cents as to why the 42 keeps shutting down.
Would just like to see how many of you here on this forum has had it shut down on it's own more than 4-5 times.

Care to post?

from my brief conversations with vizio as well as reading this thread... as well as having a defective unit myself...

It is my understanding this is a documented flaw in the mainboard which shipped out in some of the early releases. Vizio will also ship out a new unit to you at no cost. I went this route as I felt I would be guaranteed a functional unit.

Anyone care to add their 2 cents as to why the 42 keeps shutting down.
Would just like to see how many of you here on this forum has had it shut down on it's own more than 4-5 times.

Care to post?

Have been running mine since the end of March with zero problems, no shutdowns at all (where's some wood).

Have noticed that the OTA CBS channel is not 16:9 anymore; will check it tonight on "Unit" as it was always 16:9 before.

Tom

same here grizz.. just hoping we're not on borrowed time. i'm not too worried, though. if it were purchased from another store then it would be a different story.

As stated above, I'm getting a HD 1080i picture quite often that is not full screen, nor can I make it full screen. This is OTA, as I do not have HD upgrade on my digital cable. Not sure why stations broadcast that way or, if it is truely HD (although I get that banner up top the screen). Guess I could call the station.

But to my relief "The Unit" was full screen last night as was the NBA games on NBC. Man "The Unit" program is a good one for us old dog-face soldiers!! Don't know the name of the actor that plays the Sergeant Major, but he's great.

Tom

Would just like to see how many of you here on this forum has had it shut down on it's own more than 4-5 times.



Bought mine in March, had one shutdown a couple of months ago after switching set to an unused input. No problems since.

I find that PQ improves markedly as room lighting is diminished. Explains why the models looked washed out under bright warehouse club lights.

I was reading the Visio P50 thread and they also have the shutdown problems. Someone said a tech told them that it was a board problem and when you unplug it, it resets the board and fixes the problem. Worked for me, but obviously not for all. The PQ does change drastically depending on the room lighting. Does anyone get rainbowish (blueish/reddish) like effects in certain scenes?

I find that PQ improves markedly as room lighting is diminished.

I installed a sconce on the wall concealed behind the Visio (my set is on top of a nice solid wood cabinet with glass doors, etc) and found a Lutron remote dimmer on eBay that can be controlled with a remote control (although I haven't figured that part out yet!)

Makes all the difference in the world in PQ and eliminates the glare from lights in front of the set. I've never seen any 'rainbowish' hues on the set, ever. I'd suspect it's signal strengh in those that do.


Tom

Another update on my 2nd Visio 42

My other 42 has been up for only 2 weeks. No shut down yet. I figure it will take at least 50 hours to start shutting down. The first 42 was returned for a refund after about 100 hours it shut down and wouldn't turn back on, even after being upugged for over 24 hours.

Now I just picked up the Toshiba upconverting DVD player w/ coupon, and had intermitent on off from the HDMI input. Now I can not get my HDMI input to work at all. What a piece of s***!

Definetly a bad HDMI input or connector on the Visio. Check your HDMI inputs and report back here if they work or not.

Check your HDMI inputs and report back here if they work or not.

HDMI is working fine with the LG LDX514 upconverting DVD/VCR. :) I saw the Toshiba at C***** and thought it looked a bit light flimsy, but the price w/coupon was right.

Tom

Check your HDMI inputs and report back here if they work or not.

I've been using HDMI from my cable box (almost exclusively) for about 1 month with no issues. My only beef with this unit is the gaming delay from my PS2 when playing golf. It's not as bad as with my old DLP, but the scaling is delaying the video signal by a few frames, making button-timing extremely difficult.

Other than that, I couldn't be more pleased.