Then it is useless for CATV.
Another case of these Asians not knowning the US market. That might save them $1. at the manufacturing level (if that).

I just received my PHD-205LE and i just tried to scan cable channels and it wouldnt find anything.

I live in kansas city, i have time warner with a few cable channels on our package. I unhook the cable box we are renting from time warner, hook up the PHD-205LE and set it to scan CATV it found nothing.

Why i got the box is for my downstairs projector wich has no tuner. Being in the basement it is hard to receive off air channels even with a good antenna so i wanted to run the cable line down there to watch football. I thought this box would allow me to pull the HDTV brodcast channels from the cable line so i could atleast watch local channels?

Did i get the wrong box maybe?

From same cable that my cable box was hooked to into "RF in" then componet out to my HDtv. Select CATV in the IR in menu scan and finds nothing.

I just received my PHD-205LE and i just tried to scan cable channels and it wouldnt find anything.

I live in kansas city, i have time warner with a few cable channels on our package. I unhook the cable box we are renting from time warner, hook up the PHD-205LE and set it to scan CATV it found nothing.

Why i got the box is for my downstairs projector wich has no tuner. Being in the basement it is hard to receive off air channels even with a good antenna so i wanted to run the cable line down there to watch football. I thought this box would allow me to pull the HDTV brodcast channels from the cable line so i could atleast watch local channels?

Did i get the wrong box maybe?No, it has the QAM tuner you want for local HD from cable.

From same cable that my cable box was hooked to into "RF in" then componet out to my HDtv. Select CATV in the IR in menu scan and finds nothing.
Sounds right. I'd check the topic for your area in the AVS Local forum to see if others get local HD from TWC.

I figured it out but after i tried both air and CATV connection i get more channels off air then from the CATV.

Also i havnt seen anything on the chipsets, did i get somthing different? WHen i go back a few pages all i see is people talking about "ATI chipsets"?

Also i just received mine what is my firmware version? :confused:

According to their website, the only apparent difference, other than the lack of a analog tuner, (making it almost useless, especially for CATV) supposely is a newer 'tuner' (front end).
You should have at least your 'locals' 'in the clear'.

Topic title edited, to add the 'LE' model.

I'd like to know about the tuner chipset also, since the .pdf files did not mention that.

I just got off the phone with EP Vision and questioned him on this new 'LE' version;

Both versions use a Samsung tuner and ATI/AMD chipset, but have different model numbers. He couldn't give me any part numbers, or if the LE tuner was a newer generation or not. He also didn't know if it was any more sensisitive than the 205's front end. I also asked about the lack of analog even though it still has a QAM tuner. His answer was to keep cost down and the probability of analog CATV going away in the future, the decision was made to drop analog.

Next, I asked him about this DVR, but was told it was still under development, but in the mean time a final "hi end" tuner will be introduced by the end of the year. This will have only have 1080p HDMI and composite out, unlike the former tuners. But, it will also have composite, S-video, component and three HDMI inputs that can be switched and upconverted to 1080p within the tuner. Price should be around $225. It will also have an analog tuner. :confused:
He repeated "ultimate" three times to me.

First, analog cable will not be going bye-bye for a VERY long time if ever.

Second, that new high end tuner sounds very interesting. I wonder how decent the scaling will be, and if it will have a nice selection of zoom features.

I really need a DVR as the fall season is almost here. Any other options out there????

First, analog cable will not be going bye-bye for a VERY long time if ever. I don't know if it will be that "long". I'm sure the MSO's can't wait to drop analog. Look at all the extra bandwidth they would gain. The Asians have as much of a idea what we want or need as we do them. :rolleyes:

A/Vspec; take a look in the HD Recorders forum. That DTV Pal DVR (OTA only) is about it other than a TiVo, unless you want to use your PC as a DVR. There are a couple of others, but less popular.

First, analog cable will not be going bye-bye for a VERY long time if ever.

It's already going away on some systems. Comcast is trimmed down to 15-20 analog channels consisting of locals, public service, and few other channels in many areas.

Just as an example... Time Warner cable services.
For most of their markets, they offer "basic" analog cable for $15 per month.
Until all of those customers upgrade to digital TVs, and/or TW gives all of them a box that will do D->A conversion, then TW will have the analog feed on auto_pilot.
Time Warner feeds off of the people like a parasite. They could care less about "The Digital Future".

Sony just introduced a large line of Blu-ray/DVR players in Japan. However, why not here in the USA?
The manufacturing of devices that can/will record HIGH DEFINITION for the USA market is highly discouraged by the "powers that be".

Just as an example... Time Warner cable services.
For most of their markets, they offer "basic" analog cable for $15 per month.
Until all of those customers upgrade to digital TVs, and/or TW gives all of them a box that will do D->A conversion, then TW will have the analog feed on auto_pilot.Right, the basic 15-20 local channels will be around in analog a long time, which are the same channels the 205 gets.

Having a cable tuner is not going to get them cable channels (ESPN, TNT, USA, etc.); they'll need another cable supplied device or a CableCARD device like tru2way.

Right, the basic 15-20 local channels will be around in analog a long time, which are the same channels the 205 gets.

Having a cable tuner is not going to get them cable channels (ESPN, TNT, USA, etc.); they'll need another cable supplied device or a CableCARD device like tru2way.

Let's move on to "Expanded Basic" then. With Time Warner, I get up to something like 75 channels in analog form without a STB. The first 22 of those is what you refer to as "the basic 15-20 local channels".

With the 205, I can get all of those channels in analog form.
With the 205LE, I could NOT.

Apparantly, the makers of these boxes feel that this market is going away very soon, so no one needs that functionality that is missing in the LE model.
I disagree with that premise.

With the 205, I can get all of those channels in analog form.
With the 205LE, I could NOT.

Apparantly, the makers of these boxes feel that this market is going away very soon, so no one needs that functionality that is missing in the LE model.
They added RF pass-through to the LE, so you can use your TV's NTSC tuner if you still need analog.

Let's move on to "Expanded Basic" then. With Time Warner, I get up to something like 75 channels in analog form without a STB. The first 22 of those is what you refer to as "the basic 15-20 local channels".

With the 205, I can get all of those channels in analog form.
With the 205LE, I could NOT.

Apparantly, the makers of these boxes feel that this market is going away very soon, so no one needs that functionality that is missing in the LE model.
I disagree with that premise.While Time Warner Cable does not seem to be in a hurry to get rid of analog expanded basic, Comcast and a number of other cable companies are. IMHO expanded basic in analog form will not be an option for 25% of U.S. cable subscribers in a year and for a majority in two years.

They added RF pass-through to the LE, so you can use your TV's NTSC tuner if you still need analog.

Many TVs don't have tuners, and NO projectors do.

Let's move on to "Expanded Basic" then. With Time Warner, I get up to something like 75 channels in analog form without a STB. The first 22 of those is what you refer to as "the basic 15-20 local channels".

With the 205, I can get all of those channels in analog form.
With the 205LE, I could NOT.

Apparantly, the makers of these boxes feel that this market is going away very soon, so no one needs that functionality that is missing in the LE model.
I disagree with that premise.
Let me give you some food for thought.

If we go back a few years, cableco's were trying to decide how to maximize their existing physical infrastructure, because they were losing HD customers to the DBS providers and FiOS & U-verse were on the near horizon. The two major cableco's in the US, Comcast & TWC, were both looking at two primary approaches: Switched Digital Video (SDV) and analog reclamation.

Without explanation, Comcast exclusively decided on analog reclaim and TWC likewise chose SDV.

It's my educated guess that because they don't compete with each other, these two companies made a joint decision to have each one try something different, and they would share the lessons learned together, instead of shouldering the cost and time to figure out the pros and cons of SDV & analog reclaim separately.

Now that both have been relatively successful we with each of the approaches independently, I also believe you will now see both of them add the approach the other pioneered. Meaning Comcast will combine analog reclaim with SDV, and TWC will combine SDV with analog reclaim.

The bottom line is that analog use of bandwidth by cableco's is extremely inefficient, and the only analog channels cableco's will carry are those mandated by law (local & and public service).

Many TVs don't have tuners, and NO projectors do.
?

All TV's have NTSC tuners. All of them.

Projectors do not, they must use an external source, which could be an analog VCR (with NTSC tuner) or any other source with or without an NTSC tuner.

?

All TV's have NTSC tuners. All of them.

Projectors do not, they must use an external source, which could be an analog VCR (with NTSC tuner) or any other source with or without an NTSC tuner.

I thought there were many panels out on the market now, that are virtually sold as TVs, but are basically HDCP compliant monitors.
I've definitely seen them for sale, and unless they just completely omit that particular info from the spec sheet, they don't have tuners. Of course this is a very small "drop in the bucket" percentage of displays compared to mainstream.

_______

As for what the cableco's goals are, I'll have to take your word for it. Time Warner is pretty much the deusch_bag in all of that though. Here in northeast Ohio, you would think that their goal is the exact opposite of what you claim. Many other areas of the country however, get all the good stuff while we get left in the lurch.
Around here, it feels like TW just wants to keep on using the same bandwidth hogging analog crap because they have all that in place, and keep on making plenty of money off of it, so why change.

The ironic part of it, is a couple years ago THOUSANDS of customers QUIT Time Warner and went elsewhere because TW refused to carry the BTN channel.
Just as well, over the last year, THOUSANDS more have left TW to go with Uverse because of very substantial cost savings.

TW appears to not care in the slightest... like they have better things to do than woory about their cable company.:rolleyes:
I digress...:)

Is the PRIMEDTV PHD-205 available anywhere online anymore? It seems to be better suited for me (and probably many others) then the new version PHD-205LE.

Does anyone have one they are getting rid of? Fat chance probably.

I have the PHD-205LE (Which I love BTW), but I can't figure out what's up with 5.1 surround with HDMI. When I output video with HDMI, sound comes out as 2.0 stereo even when using SPDIF optical.

As soon as I switch to component YPbPr, audio magically comes out optical as 5.1.

Is this a hardware limitation or do I maybe have some setting incorrect?

I have the PHD-205LE (Which I love BTW), but I can't figure out what's up with 5.1 surround with HDMI. When I output video with HDMI, sound comes out as 2.0 stereo even when using SPDIF optical.

As soon as I switch to component YPbPr, audio magically comes out optical as 5.1.

Is this a hardware limitation or do I maybe have some setting incorrect?

These boxes have Gremlins in them I think.
I have the non LE version that I've had for a long time now.
I had a similar problem where I just could not get surround sound out of the spdif output.
No matter what I did, is was stereo.
I had written it off as a loss, and didn't bother with it anymore as I rarely used it in the theater anyway.

One day I fired it up (after owning it for over a year), and all of the sudden BAM, I'm getting surround sound. Ever since then the box has worked perfectly other than the major picture tearing I get with brightly lit standard def feeds.

other than the major picture tearing I get with brightly lit standard def feeds.If I remember correctly, that was solved with the first firmware upgrade.

If I remember correctly, that was solved with the first firmware upgrade.

I've upgraded the fw quite a while ago.
If there is a fw upgrade that will fix it, I'd be highly interested.

I thought I remembered you mentioning there would have to be a hardware mod done to fix it. I have no soldering skills, so I considered myself SOL and screwed again by a company not supporting their products.

I would really like to get it fixed though.

I had to look it up;
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13725781#post13725781

Notice the 2nd post directly after mine. :D

I had to look it up;
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13725781#post13725781

Notice the 2nd post directly after mine. :D

Ya, that's way out of my league.
I'm good with screwdrivers, ratchets, saws, ect...
No electronic soldering skills.
I've repaired other electronics, but all that was plug-n-play type stuff.

I just got off the phone with EP Vision and questioned him on this new 'LE' version;

Both versions use a Samsung tuner and ATI/AMD chipset, but have different model numbers. He couldn't give me any part numbers, or if the LE tuner was a newer generation or not. He also didn't know if it was any more sensisitive than the 205's front end. I also asked about the lack of analog even though it still has a QAM tuner. His answer was to keep cost down and the probability of analog CATV going away in the future, the decision was made to drop analog.

Next, I asked him about this DVR, but was told it was still under development, but in the mean time a final "hi end" tuner will be introduced by the end of the year. This will have only have 1080p HDMI and composite out, unlike the former tuners. But, it will also have composite, S-video, component and three HDMI inputs that can be switched and upconverted to 1080p within the tuner. Price should be around $225. It will also have an analog tuner. :confused:
He repeated "ultimate" three times to me.


Yep... I found out the same thing. I just got off the phone with the gentlemen. I really need an analog tuner and hdtv tuner and don't want to have another component (vcr) in my system. I don't understand why the left it out of this module.

They guy I spoke to was really pleasant and will accept the 205le back. I was happy to hear that as I got it about a month ago and never got to hook it up till now. I told him to put me on the list for the "ultimate" tuner.

I was expecting a hassle, but the guy was easy to deal with. I guess chalk up a rep point for EPvision in my book.

Well I hope he's not blowing smoke about this "Ultimate Tuner".
According to his words, it should be available in less than 78 days from now.
:)

I was looking for an HD tuner for my parents and was looking at this box for a long time. It sucks to hear that it only passes through Analog cable. The reason is I want a solution that doesn't have them changing the input on the TV to watch cable. I know it seems trivial to switch to an input to watch HD, but explaining that to my parents is not. I mean they have to remember, "oh I should see if this is in HD". I would rather it be like HD tvs now that actually have a tuner where they are just extra channels. So its easier to get to them and you don't have to remember to switch inputs. I guess I should have gotten a 200 when I had the chance.

The only things that are reasonably priced and available new that have integrated NTSC/QAM tuners are DVD recorders - but they're only standard definition.

What kind of TV do they have? Is it an actual HD-resolution set? If not, something like the Panasonic EZ28 DVD recorder would work (although the channel changing is a little slow - still, it has about the best PQ from it's digital tuner of any SD recorder out there).

Yeah its a DLP "HD Monitor" (no tuner) that they got right before they started putting tuners on everything. All I need it an analog and QAM tuner so they don't have to switch inputs or remotes. I want them to able surf both analog and HD (QAM) without thinking about it.

Other than TiVo (which you could pay the lifetime fee for) there's only used out there.

I'd just hit the ol' ebay, craigslist, whatever.

The LG's are especially good (4200A, 3410A DVR, etc.).

Yeah but I want to keep the price around 100-150.

Well I hope he's not blowing smoke about this "Ultimate Tuner".
According to his words, it should be available in less than 78 days from now.
:)
The ePVision site already claims the PHD-205LE is the "ultimate HDTV Tuner".

Analog isn't just useful for cable, there are at least 2 low power analog OTA stations in my area, and as far as I know, there is no requirement for the LP stations to go digital (though I think one of ours has, while also keeping the analog, and the other is working on it).

The EPvision site is still selling the PHD-205 if the "add to cart" function is really working. What's the real scoop on this - can I still buy this thing?

I notice that it's got a bunch of video-out switches on the back.

I'm thinking that it won't output a signal to a VGA monitor, or out the s-video, or out the component output ALL AT THE SAME TIME? Is that the reason for the switch on the back?

sumguy99; he doesn't update his site at all (that LCD set is still listed from 2 or 3 years ago, even though it was never imported). I would call and ask if the older model is available.
That switch allows you to change the output resolution, even if you can't see a pic on the set.

> That switch allows you to change the output resolution, even if you can't
> see a pic on the set.

According to the picture of the back of the unit in the manual, there are two switches: One for "resolution select" and another one for "DTV out select".

That's why I'm thinking that the unit will only output a signal on which-ever position the "DTV out select" switch is set to - otherwise why have such a switch?

My updated original review is here;
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11303232#post11303232

If I remember correctly, composite is always active, it's the others are one or the other.

Here is my latest problem with the PHD-205, as described in my email to them below. Anyone else notice this issue?

Dear epvision,
In my area (zip 95014) with comcast QAM cable, for example, USAN should be at 78.7 but on your PHD205 it is 78.11. PBS Kids should be on 91.10, but on the PHD205 it is 91.6. There are dozens of channels that are wrong like this. The main channel number is good, but the subchannel number is wrong.

Only the PHD205 is different. All equipment is hooked to the same comcast service.

Can you please explain this and when you will fix it with a firmware update? Thanks.

I am experiencing the exact same problem described in this post. (I happen to be in the same zip code, my PHD-205 has version 33.33.15 firmware). Has there been any update or at least understanding of the problem. My only other observation is that sometimes it is not just subchannel number that is wrong. The channel nunber may have also shifted to a nearby channel number.

I am experiencing the exact same problem described in this post. (I happen to be in the same zip code, my PHD-205 has version 33.33.15 firmware). Has there been any update or at least understanding of the problem. My only other observation is that sometimes it is not just subchannel number that is wrong. The channel nunber may have also shifted to a nearby channel number.

My belief is that your local Comcast system is the problem, not the PHD205. Check in the local topic for your area, in the HDTV Local Forum.

Comcast in Central NJ transmits all the networks in HD "in the clear" except CBS. Is anyone else experiencing this? Does the Federal Law regarding the requirement that cable companies carry all local OTA stations extend to HD or just SD?

Thanks.

wantqam; I don't believe there are two QAM capable tuners that are alike. They all have differences. Some do a really poor job at this while others excel (to a certain extent). Are your systems SDV? That makes matters much worse. :mad:
BTW; welcome to the forums.your local Comcast system is the problem, not the PHD205 Ditto.

As far as I know, my local Comcast is not on SDV. The channels are always in the same location just not consistent between my PHD-205 and the built-in tuner in my Samsung TV.

As far as I know, my local Comcast is not on SDV. That is most likely correct.

The channels are always in the same location just not consistent between my PHD-205 and the built-in tuner in my Samsung TV.Which is not that unusual. Different tuners handle tuning differently, you should still get all the same channels on both, but perhaps in different locations.

Hi,
I want to get one for these for my TV, my hdtv has it's coaxial connection broken off, so I can not use the build in tuner at all, but it doesn't have a qam tuner anyway.

If I use this on my cable, does it receive ONLY clear qam channels, or does it receive both, clear qam and analog channels?

The ZAT 502 doesnt have analog. If this one doesnt have analog, can someone suggest one that does both analog and clear qam? Doby digital not required.

I recently bought a PHD-205LE and I'm having a bit of trouble with the aspect ratio control. I'm connected via component cables to a Samsung 4:3 CRT HDTV, model TXN3271HF. The TV accepts 480i, 480p, and 1080i signals. When I have the PHD-205LE set to 480, it will respond to remote control Aspect button. However, when I have the PHD-205LE set to 1080, the Aspect button doesn't do anything. Is the PHD-205LE working as intended or not? According to the instruction manual, which I researched prior to purchasing the unit, it doesn't mention any restriction on the Aspect button. I was hoping to be able to use the Aspect function to zoom into a 16:9 HD signal and have the sides cut off, instead of having the black bars at the top and bottom. According to one of the setup screens, I do have the latest firmware (211.22.32.08).

Thanks in advance for your help.

I recently bought a PHD-205LE and I'm having a bit of trouble with the aspect ratio control. I'm connected via component cables to a Samsung 4:3 CRT HDTV, model TXN3271HF. The TV accepts 480i, 480p, and 1080i signals. When I have the PHD-205LE set to 480, it will respond to remote control Aspect button. However, when I have the PHD-205LE set to 1080, the Aspect button doesn't do anything. Is the PHD-205LE working as intended or not? According to the instruction manual, which I researched prior to purchasing the unit, it doesn't mention any restriction on the Aspect button. I was hoping to be able to use the Aspect function to zoom into a 16:9 HD signal and have the sides cut off, instead of having the black bars at the top and bottom. According to one of the setup screens, I do have the latest firmware (211.22.32.08).

Thanks in advance for your help.

Does the Zoom function on your TV give poor results? I couldn't find any info in the manual regarding setting the aspect ratio of the display (the cheap set top boxes have this function). It may assume that if you are sending a 1080i signal that it is a 16:9 tv and lock the aspect. Kinda sucks because there were a fair number of 1080i-capable 4:3 tvs from Panasonic, Sony and Samsung and these boxes are a great solution for owners who want to receive OTA broadcasts and clear cable channels.

daj

Does the Zoom function on your TV give poor results? I couldn't find any info in the manual regarding setting the aspect ratio of the display (the cheap set top boxes have this function). It may assume that if you are sending a 1080i signal that it is a 16:9 tv and lock the aspect. Kinda sucks because there were a fair number of 1080i-capable 4:3 tvs from Panasonic, Sony and Samsung and these boxes are a great solution for owners who want to receive OTA broadcasts and clear cable channels.

daj

When receiving a 16:9 1080i signal, my TV allows either widescreen mode with black bars at the top and bottom or fullscreen mode where the picture is stretched vertically to fill the screen. This fullscreen mode, obviously, distorts the picture. Like the PHD-205LE, I had also researched the TV manual prior to purchasing it, and I thought the TV's zoom feature would do what I wanted it to do, but its functions are limited in 1080i mode.

I called epvision, and the guy I spoke to didn't know, off the top of his head, whether the PHD-205LE would do what I wanted it to do. He made a comment that perhaps the PHD-205 (no LE) might be able to, but again, he wasn't sure. On his request, I sent them an email with my question so the engineering department could take a look at it.

Other than the zoom issue, the PHD-205LE works fine, and the OTA picture quality is certainly better than Uverse HD, at least for fast moving shows like football. I think the antenna signal strength indicators could be more user friendly and offer more fidelity, however.

Hey Videobruce,
You reported before that the new firmware should allow two sets of scans to be stored.
I checked the firmware on that replacement unit they sent us way back when (3/08) to fix the video tear issue. It has the firmware 33.33.15 that you have (even though that was posted on their web site for use on post 6/08 models).

So how do I get it to keep 2 scans? I tried switching from cable to antenna, did a scan, but lost all my cable channels (i.e., they were gone when I switched back to cable). So switching input type doesn't do the trick. Did you verify that this feature actually works? How does it work? Thanks.

As for that subchannel misnumbering issue I originally reported and is discussed above, I doubt that it is a comcast problem. I have a Magnavox DVR with digital tuner and two computer digital tuners that all agree on the subchannel numbers for comcast qam. Only the PHD-205 gives different numbers.

If I remember correctly, newer versions of the firmware didn't allow dual memories. The firmware that is in mine is 33.33.09, not 15. I hunted back to the middle of 2008 when the firmware was released. Here is the conversation;
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14293577#post14293577

Anyone else try it?

I ordered an ePVision PHD-205LE to replace a defective Samsung HTB-260F. It is brand new. I ordered it from ePVision, directly. I just received it this evening and hooked it up.

Guess what?

It is defective. It barely boots up. Once it's on, the audio and video flash on and off, ceaselessly. There are no troubleshooting steps given for this dysfuntion from which I deduct it is not user remediable.

I did a bunch of power cycling of all the affected units. I swapped cables from this to the Samsung. The Samsung works no matter which input stream I use. The ePVision does not work no matter which inputs stream I use.

This consumer electronics industry is REALLY SCREWED UP.

By the way, now that I need it, I noticed they do not have a return policy posted on their web site. There's no statement of warranty provisions on their web site. I've got a really bad feeling about this... I did pay by credit card, so if it 's defective and they will not remedy the problem, I will dispute the charge with my bank.

I may play with it some more* but have little hope.




* I was going to connect the tuner to the receiver via component video instead of HDMI just to see if that works. It is going back regardless of whether component video works or not because I want to use the HDMI output it is supposed to have.

BACKGROUND -

I placed an order for a PHD-205LE. Vendor shipped defective unit.

I requested a replacement unit. Vendor requires return of defective unit prior to sending replacement unit.

I offered to return defective unit (if they want it) if they provide pre-paid shipping label. Vendor refused to pay for return shipping of defective unit.

STATUS -

I have been charged over $170 but have yet to receive the unit I paid for.

Vendor requires ME to incur additional cost for return shipping of THEIR defective unit.

ACTIONS -

I reiterated my request for a full refund and disputed transaction with credit card company.



What a crappy product and a crappy supplier.

This consumer electronics industry is REALLY SCREWED UP.Consumers want the cheapest thing possible:
You get what you don't pay for. :rolleyes:

Call him and explain what happened and it will be exchanged. Don't waste any more time with it. ;)

Topics merged.

Consumers want the cheapest thing possible:
You get what you don't pay for. :rolleyes:

Call him and explain what happened and it will be exchanged. Don't waste any more time with it. ;)

videobruce, your post reeks of synycism about the consumer. It is likely what's behind the vendor's poor customer service.

The point of contention is whether I am under any obligation to incur additional cost to return his defective product. I would guesstimate the cost at about $20-$30 additional (~15% of purchase price) for postage and insurance on top of the $170 already paid for shipping a functional product to me.

I am not asking for something I did not pay for, I want only that which I was offered and for which I paid. The vendor developed the product. The vendor offered to sell and set the price, not me.

I agreed to buy. I paid his advertised price. The fault here is not mine.

The fault is the vendor. The vendor has not yet delivered what was offered and for which I paid. It is, quite simply, that.

I am growing very synical about the audio-visual products supply chain due to the piss-poor performance of about half of the products I've recently purchased.

Topics merged.

Thank you. Initially, I did not understand what happened to the other thread.

Does anyone have experience using these with Comcasts service? Comcast recently changed their system so tuners need a code to descramble regular channels. Essentially they force you to use their equipment, I cannot use the built in digital tunner in my tv, I have to used a comcast box. If I use their basic unit, I don't get any HD at all, but if I used their HD box they charge me $7.00 a month.

I'm assuming these boxes are a strait tuner and cannot decode Comcast signal?

Does anyone have experience using these with Comcasts service? Comcast recently changed their system so tuners need a code to descramble regular channels. Essentially they force you to use their equipment, I cannot use the built in digital tunner in my tv, I have to used a comcast box. If I use their basic unit, I don't get any HD at all, but if I used their HD box they charge me $7.00 a month.

I'm assuming these boxes are a strait tuner and cannot decode Comcast signal?

Any QAM tuner will receive the unencrypted QAM channels Comcast has on their systems, which are the local HD channels, and maybe one or two others, area dependent (WGN, TBS, Discovery).

Other than those, all Comcast HD is encrypted and requires a box from them, or a CableCARD host device like a TiVo HD or Moxi and you rent the CableCARD from Comcast, usually for about 2 dollars a month. See the specific topics in the HDTV Recorders Forum for details.

Any QAM tuner will receive the unencrypted QAM channels Comcast has on their systems, which are the local HD channels, and maybe one or two others, area dependent (WGN, TBS, Discovery).

Other than those, all Comcast HD is encrypted and requires a box from them, or a CableCARD host device like a TiVo HD or Moxi and you rent the CableCARD from Comcast, usually for about 2 dollars a month. See the specific topics in the HDTV Recorders Forum for details.

Thanks... I actually cancelled comcast since they made everything encrypted and have put up an antenna. I don't miss much, but I thought it might be worth finding out nonetheless. What really got me about them is that I had been paying their 60$ a month service for standard digital cable and using my TV's tuner card since the standard comcast box doesn't pass through local HD. I had the PHD 205 on my other system for my projector. They wanted me to pay $7.00 a month for an HD box for each system. Only thing I really miss is Fox News, CNN and Food Network. Beyond that it's not worth the price IMO. However, I think it's a bummer for a lot of people that invested in equipment that could tune in Cable prior to the conversion. At least it still works with OTA. I'm watching less and less TV these days and more and more netflix.

However, I think it's a bummer for a lot of people that invested in equipment that could tune in Cable prior to the conversion.

Amen to that brother!

Especially since during the OTA digital conversion the Comcast marketing message was, use Comcast and you won't have to worry about digital converstion.

I too have reduced my Comcast service to the lowest $10/month level, which is essentially free if you also have Comcast Internet.

Good riddance!

Amen to that brother!

Especially since during the OTA digital conversion the Comcast marketing message was, use Comcast and you won't have to worry about digital converstion.

I too have reduced my Comcast service to the lowest $10/month level, which is essentially free if you also have Comcast Internet.

Good riddance!

I had programmed my URC MX-3000 and spent a lot of time getting the PHD 205 working with it. It still works with OTA, but useless with Cable. Effort, time and money wasted.

Hey guys,

I recently purchased a PHD101 for use with a projector and I can't figure out how to view SD content. I did the auto-scan and I found the available HD channels, but I don't know how to watch SD channels, as there are obvi many more channels that are in SD than HD.

Thanks!

Sorry I meant PHD-205LE, the newest one for $140.

The new one doesn't have a analog (NTSC) tuner, just pass through.

(BTW, you can edit a post instead of adding another).

So I need to buy an NTSC tuner as well? how much is that? and then with that I could use the pass-thru function so when the 205LE is not in use, the signal goes to the SD box? or would it be better to try and return and buy a different box from the same ePVision company?

Thanks a ton!

Do you have an old VCR around? You could use the NTSC tuner from that.

First question would be; what are you hooking it up to? A Monitor or what??

Just bought a Philips 47pfl5704d - 47" Lcd 1080p Hdtv with inbuilt ATSC /QAM tuner (and also NTSC I suppose)

Using Rogers basic cable, without a box

If I use HDMI from PHD-205, Will it give me better picture ? (as it will have HDMI and I am using COAX right now)

Just bought a Philips 47pfl5704d - 47" Lcd 1080p Hdtv with inbuilt ATSC /QAM tuner (and also NTSC I suppose)

Using Rogers basic cable, without a box

If I use HDMI from PHD-205, Will it give me better picture ? (as it will have HDMI and I am using COAX right now)

I doubt it. My built in tuner is as good or better than the 205 IMO. Also remember that if your cable company decides to encrypt channels then the 205 is useless, unless you use OTA.

no way would HDMI & external tuner give you a better quality than the built-in tuner.
but using PHD with hdmi or component-vid-input, you might get improved flexibility with picture-in-picture / side-by-side-pictures, which I think your new tv supports.
(It can be nice to have one of the "PIP"/side-by-side pictures controlled by an external tuner and separate remote).

Just wanted to give an update on my PHD 205. I had it hooked up to a projector and had sub paw reception compared to my Philips TV, which resides in the same room. That being said, I fiddled with my entire cable setup throughout the house and have had better results. I used a 8 port bi-directional cable tuner splitter from Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003B99KDK/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_3?pf_rd_p=486539851&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B000WDR94U&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=1J5VZR06GXXD685PT7B7). This improved my signal in all rooms considerably and I'd recommend it if you're have signal issues with the PHD 205 etc. One caveat is that if you use a cable modem for internet, you'll need to hook that up before the splitter since it's not an active 2 way splitter.

So I'm currently using the PHD in a different room and the PQ is fine. The remote isn't good and it takes time to change channels. However, it's usable.

So I need recommendation for an alternative to the PHD-205 because I'd like to see how it fares compared to the competition. I need 1 more tuner for my projector. Anyone have recommendations?

no way would HDMI & external tuner give you a better quality than the built-in tuner.Even if that tuner was sub-par design or just had a problem?? Never make that type of statement

I see this is an inactive thread, but thought I would give it a try anyway. I just purchased an PHD-205LE. My goal is the clear QAM channels from Charter basic cable in Rochester MN. It scans and finds them great. Problem is the only resolution that works is 420p. I've tried hooking it up via both component and hdmi. Switching to 720p or 1080i results in a jumpy, distorted picture. Kind of like it is encrypted. Could my cable company be doing something funky with the signal? TV is a Sony Bravia LCD. Thanks!

Have you tried another monitor? Does the LE still have that 3 position slide switch for resolution selection?

I had that problem with a long cable run. I ran a cable line quite a distance. I have a 46" tv and a projector. The tv has a built in tuner and it picked-up everything fine. The PHD-205 had the problem you're describing. I added a cable signal booster to that line where it came into the house and upgraded a couple splitters - they were satellite splitters. The PHD then picked up all the channels and displayed them fine. So the tuner in that unit isn't nearly as good as my built in tuners.

How old is your sony? It doesn't have a built in tuner? Do you have the model number? I had some issues hooking up the PHD to my old Mitsubishi rear projection tv. I got it working but it took some fiddling. I occasionally have to turn off the PHD and turn it back on due to pixelated pictures.

Because my Centronics ZAT-502 started dying, I purchased one of the PHD-205's. Installation and set up were easy. I was able to find the proper codes for my Logitech Harmony 550 programmable remote, so the remote's update went fairly easily. Everything is just fine, so far.

The channel scan went quickly and I was able to delete the unwanted channels, unlike the ZAT-502 which does not allow you delete unwanted channels. I found it very irritating to not be able to delete the dozens of channels you don't watch. It's amazing anyone would build a tuner without this ability.

There is one "rub". I noticed it right away. My wife alaso noticed it, so that's saying something. The video picture has an overall "washed out" appearance, as if the display's brightness setting were set way too high. There is no place in any image where you see full saturation of color. It is as if there's a haze or fog over everything.

The "washed out" appearance is so prominent that I noticed it. In order to ensure I was correct, I re-connected the ZAT-502 and switched back and forth between the two tuners. As I was doing this, my wife, looking in from the other room, started saying, "new tuner,...old tuner,...new tuner,..." as I switched back and forth. Even when I tried to trick her, she got it right 100% of the time.

This is my FOURTH tuner. I just don't know what to say. I am dumbstruck by the products and companies in this industry.

Could I use this box to display Digital HDTV to my Sanyo Z2000? (Basically turn my PJ into a TV).
I am getting a broadcast signal due to my cable modem. I do not subscribe to Cable per se... My two TV's have built in tuners and are getting around a dozen channels just great. Hopefully this will work and allow me to watch Superbowl this year on the PJ!

The video picture has an overall "washed out" appearance, as if the display's brightness setting were set way too high. I had to find and read my review four years ago as I thought there was some issue, but it had to do with analog stations;
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11303232&postcount=300

I would say there might be a issue with your unit. What output are you using? Have you tried a different output? How about another monitor?

videobruce,

The testing I did should exonerate the display and the receiver as possile sources for corrupting the video output signal - the other unit worked just fine.

I am using the HDMI output of the 205. My tv reception is OTA only. The signals are digital now but they are broadcast signals not cable or fiber optic.

I didn't try the component output or other types, as I plan to use only the HDMI. If the HDMI does not work properly, the unit will be returned as defective.

Try the component outs and report back.
You tried the DVI/HDMI out on another set?

The output level off my component is low. It only tops out at 80 IRE, not 100.

Why would I do that? It is not my intention to use the component outputs and I already know it is not a problem with my display. I am not being argumentative here, I just want to understand the logical path you are on.

I just recently purchased the PHD-205LE and agree that the picture is soft and washed out. Not sharp enough for my taste. May return it. According to epVision, the newer version of the 205 uses a Sanyo tuner, whereas the older version uses a Samsung tuner. Not sure if the Samsung version is still available or has a better picture.

Why would I do that?Did you ever think it might be a issue with just the HDMI out?
You try all avenues. Component will give you the same PQ for all intensive purposes.the newer version of the 205 uses a Sanyo tuner, whereas the older version uses a Samsung tuner.I doubt it is the tuner. Post processing would be the most likely culprit.

Did you ever think it might be a issue with just the HDMI out?


Ah, okay. I thought that's where you were heading.

The HDMI output failed on the other Epvision tuner I had (the PHD-8VX). On that unit, the component worked just fine but HDMI died. I sent it back as defective. If this one is defective, it's going back, too. That the component outputs work is insufficient.

Still, thanks for the help.

tylerSC/videobruce - have either of you tried using component cables to see if the washed-out picture is an HDMI problem?

I ordered one of these recently but UPS want a brokerage fee that's pushing the price of the unit up to almost the cost of a new TV. I don't want to pay the brokerage fee only to have to return the unit.

UPS want a brokerage fee Huh?? :confused:
For what??

I'm in Canada so they charge $30 to collect $8 in taxes for the federal government. Its a nice little earner for the courier companies than can only be avoided by sending stuff via USPS. Anyhow I'm wary of paying the fee if I'm going to have to end up returning the 205 due to the soft picture issue. If its just on HDMI I don't mind as I will be using component cables.