Dumb question that probably has been answered:

If I have my PS3 set to output PCM, will it automatically pick the uncompressed track? How on the controller do I tell the PS3 to switch audio tracks if the title supports it?

Thanks!
-b

The problem for me is that I have 12 meters of dvi/Hdmi cable so if I need to get a new one it won't be that cheap.True, that'll be closer to $40.
For audio I think the PS3 has an optical out so that won't be a problem.It does, but you'll lose the ability to output PCM lossless (unless you want it in 2.0 and use ProLogic II for surround effects).

If I have my PS3 set to output PCM, will it automatically pick the uncompressed track?I think that's up to how the title is authored, but I would imagine most would default to PCM lossless.
How on the controller do I tell the PS3 to switch audio tracks if the title supports it?Choose the other track from the disc menu.

Thanks for the answers. I was under the impression you had to hit an audio button like you do on stand alone players..

I'm sure selecting it from the menu works on those as well..


-b

True, that'll be closer to $40.
It does, but you'll lose the ability to output PCM lossless (unless you want it in 2.0 and use ProLogic II for surround effects).

Actually here in Sweden that kind of cable would be about 150$.

Can I get normal DD5.1 through optical output? I don't have a hdmi compatible receiver anyway. Is that the only way to get the lossless track to play?
Ps3 hdmi to receiver with hdmi?

Thank's guys for helping out.

The problem for me is that I have 12 meters of dvi/Hdmi cable so if I need to get a new one it won't be that cheap. Another problem I have is that I have an Oppo dvd player hooked up aswell and that has a dvi out. So I sort of need to keep my dvi to hdmi 12meter cable and figure out how to connect the PS3, I just though that an adapter might be a cheap and easy solution. For audio I think the PS3 has an optical out so that won't be a problem.
How about this adapter: http://sewelldirect.com/hdmitodviemtofadaptor.asp
Still $15.00 USD plus shipping though.

Can I get normal DD5.1 through optical output?Sure, select bitstream from PS3 settings. You won't hear any secondary audio (i.e. commentary track), though you can always change to PCM for that.
I don't have a hdmi compatible receiver anyway. Is that the only way to get the lossless track to play?Full surround lossless, yes. Optical doesn't have the bandwidth.

Can I get normal DD5.1 through optical output?
Yes, depending on what's included on the BD.


Is that the only way to get the lossless track to play?
Ps3 hdmi to receiver with hdmi?
Yes. But there's a whole 35+ page thread on what receivers(AVR's) can give you 7.1 via PCM. I don't know of any movies that have 7.1 lossless, but there's at least one game, Resistance: Fall of Man, that uses 7.1.

Thank's guys for helping out.
No problem. That why this forum exists!

I have a long cable with dvi in one end from my dvd player and hdmi on the other going into a sanyo Z4 projector. I would like to use this cable for my PS3. Is there such a thing an adapter that has a hdmi part that goes into the PS3 and a dvi part for the cable?

I would suggest you check out the Monoprice.com HDMI switch box with remote control to effectively give you additional inputs feeding your projector. If you really don't want to replace your current DVI to HDMI cable that is going to the projector then you can add a HDMI to DVI adapter, also from monoprice, to connect the DVI end of that cable to the HDMI switch box. You would then also need to purchase a short (e.g, 6 ft.) HDMI-HDMI cable to connect the PS3 to the switch box and a short DVI-HDMI cable to connect your existing DVD player to the switchbox. If you get the 4 input HDMI switchbox this will give you expansion for future HDMI HD sources.

Ron Jones

Just hooked up my 60GB PS3 :) ,watched Aeon Flux.Not a bad movie but wow did it look great.To bad I have no audio setup yet.Looking to get a good 5.1 system that wont kill the bank.Anyway very pleased with the purchase.

Just hooked up my 60GB PS3 :) ,watched Aeon Flux.Not a bad movie but wow did it look great.To bad I have no audio setup yet.Looking to get a good 5.1 system that wont kill the bank.Anyway very pleased with the purchase.
Congratulations. If you are anything like me, you will find the PS3 easy to use as a player. There is just something cool about it. Maybe it's the disc loading time compared to my HD player :D . I hope you continue to enjoy it.

An HDMI-HDMI cable is as low as $4 at AVS advertiser Monoprice.com, certainly less than any adapter (if they even exist). Besides, if you use a DVI cable it can't carry audio (don't know if your projector supports it).

Would you happen to know if their digital optical cables are any good?

Sure, select bitstream from PS3 settings. You won't hear any secondary audio (i.e. commentary track), though you can always change to PCM for that.
Full surround lossless, yes. Optical doesn't have the bandwidth.

Talkstr8,

With digital optical, is it possible 2.0 PCM could sound better than DD or DTS 5.1? I haven't experimented yet.

Would you happen to know if their digital optical cables are any good?I'm not one to spend any more than necessary on cables, so for my purposes they are fine. In general they get very high customer rankings, but I'm sure there's a thread here somewhere discussing their cables.
With digital optical, is it possible 2.0 PCM could sound better than DD or DTS 5.1? I haven't experimented yet.I don't know whether the better main channels would compensate for the weaker soundfield (due to ProLogic II instead of true 5.1). Would be interested in hearing what you think.

In most cases, I don't think it would be worth listening to 2 channel PCM processed with DPLII instead of DD 5.1. An exception might be a concert film, but even then it would depend on how it was mixed.

How about this adapter: http://sewelldirect.com/hdmitodviemtofadaptor.asp
Still $15.00 USD plus shipping though.

That looks like it's exactly what I need. Gonna try one of those out before spending money on a totally new cable. Easiest and cheapest solution.

My bigger plan involves buying a new hdmi-hdmi cable and buying a switch box so everything can get hookep up throught that. Will try the easy solution first though, thanks again guys.

That looks like it's exactly what I need. Gonna try one of those out before spending money on a totally new cable. Easiest and cheapest solution.

Monoprice has them much cheaper than that, but I don't know their policies on international shipping.

Monoprice has them much cheaper than that, but I don't know their policies on international shipping.

Found some adapters here in Sweden and they go for about 30-40$. Still cheaper than getting a new cable for 150$

Has anyone used the remote that Sony is selling now or is it ok to control movies with the sixaxis controller?

Found some adapters here in Sweden and they go for about 30-40$. Still cheaper than getting a new cable for 150$

Has anyone used the remote that Sony is selling now or is it ok to control movies with the sixaxis controller?

I like the Sony BD remote control, it's blue tooth, easy to use. I don't play games so the sixaxis controll is a bit akward for me. The BD remotes is only $25 here in the U.S. BTW, do you have PS3s in Sweden already?

Talkstr8,

With digital optical, is it possible 2.0 PCM could sound better than DD or DTS 5.1? I haven't experimented yet.
It's certainly possible. It depends on the soudtrack and it depends on your receivers processing of 2 ch audio into DPII. What you will miss with 2ch is the dedicated LFE channel, which will lessen the impact of the bass and LFE. However, the soundstage and even the surround effects can be as good or better with a good 2ch source. "House of Flying Daggers" is a good track that I found worked fantastic in 2ch PCM upconverted to DPII, especially the echo game/bean throwing scene in the begining.

I like the Sony BD remote control, it's blue tooth, easy to use. I don't play games so the sixaxis controll is a bit akward for me. The BD remotes is only $25 here in the U.S. BTW, do you have PS3s in Sweden already?

Nope, we do not have PS3 here yet. I have however bought myself a US version.

I have a PS3 and I'm looking to make use of the uncompressed PCM audio on the BD movie discs. Right now my receiver is an aging Pioneer which I bought 5 years back. It decodes DD5.1 and DTS but not PLII. Of course it does not have HDMI decoding. When I turn on the PCM option in BHD, I only get 2 channel audio.

I've read in another thread about the Onkyo 604, which is a mid range receiver that does HDMI audio decoding into full uncompressed PCM. Is this a good option to go for right now (relatively affordable) or should I wait for newer receivers with HDMI 1.3?

Thanks!

I think the controller works just fine. No need to have another remote. Once you get used to what the buttons do its actually easier to navigate in the dark, because of the button placement on the controller.

I think the controller works just fine. No need to have another remote. Once you get used to what the buttons do its actually easier to navigate in the dark, because of the button placement on the controller.
I agree. I bought the remote, but wanted to try the controller first before opening it. I think is works fine. Your right about it being easier to use in the dark, too.

I actually prefer the dedicated DVD player remote on the PS3. Despite what they might say at EB Games, anyway, you can return opened accessories within 7 days of purchase w/ receipt. Other store policies may vary.

I like the DVD remote, I feel strange using a game controller for my DVD playback. I wish the DVD remote had a backlight switch or was somehow illuminated -- same for the game controllers -- but alas.

OH, I also figured out why I was experiencing what I thought was "black crush" on my PS3 playback. Apparently my Samsung DLP set retains different service menu settings for different input resolutions, and since the PS3 DVD player outputs at 480p, my 1080i/p service menu settings reverted back to default and the black crush was due to the DNIE dynamic black circuit kicking in when I thought it was actually off.

So, in the end, no image quality issues with the PS3 DVD player after all. Sorry about the confusion.

I agree. I bought the remote, but wanted to try the controller first before opening it. I think is works fine. Your right about it being easier to use in the dark, too.

OH, I also figured out why I was experiencing what I thought was "black crush" on my PS3 playback. Apparently my Samsung DLP set retains different service menu settings for different input resolutions, and since the PS3 DVD player outputs at 480p, my 1080i/p service menu settings reverted back to default and the black crush was due to the DNIE dynamic black circuit kicking in when I thought it was actually off.


Was this on a Samsung HLS series? IF so, did it only affect 480p or also BD playback?

I ask b/c I have a samsung hls-6188 and wondered what you did to fix this.

I just got my PS3 remote from Amazon and I have to say that I dislike it tremendously. Tiny buttons, no backlighting, the Stop button placed between the Play and Pause buttons.

I'll go back to using the game controller since it is much easier to use in the dark even though it doesn't have backlighting either. The only real problem I seem to have with the controller is I have inadvertently pushed the R1 or L1 buttons when I've picked it up and advanced chapters.

Was this on a Samsung HLS series? IF so, did it only affect 480p or also BD playback?

I ask b/c I have a samsung hls-6188 and wondered what you did to fix this.

I don't believe he is correct...I have a HLS5688W and have my PS3 connected via HDMI. I use Movie mode as I'm told its the best for viewing (see the samsung HLS87/88 threads). I adjusted my brightness/contrast using DVE and there is definately clipping going on. A standard DVD has better black levels using an old samsung combo DVD player using component then I do the PS3. The DVE disk definately show black and white being clipped.

I don't believe he is correct...I have a HLS5688W and have my PS3 connected via HDMI. I use Movie mode as I'm told its the best for viewing (see the samsung HLS87/88 threads). I adjusted my brightness/contrast using DVE and there is definately clipping going on. A standard DVD has better black levels using an old samsung combo DVD player using component then I do the PS3. The DVE disk definately show black and white being clipped.

Your observations match mine as well, which is why I was womdering if he had found something different

Quick question about the bitstream/PCM setting on the PS3. I just got a HDMI 1.2 receiver, so which is the best setting? From what I've read on the forum, the general consensus is to set it to PCM for the uncompressed audio tracks on the Sony and Disney discs, but what about the DTS-HD MA tracks on the Fox Blu-ray discs? Should I switch it back to Bitstream for those, or can I leave it on PCM?

Quick question about the bitstream/PCM setting on the PS3. I just got a HDMI 1.2 receiver, so which is the best setting? From what I've read on the forum, the general consensus is to set it to PCM for the uncompressed audio tracks on the Sony and Disney discs, but what about the DTS-HD MA tracks on the Fox Blu-ray discs? Should I switch it back to Bitstream for those, or can I leave it on PCM?
Hmmm, since the PS3 can't decode DTS-HD MA what will you get with PCM? 2 channel stereo? No idea. BTW, what receiver did you get. I'm thinking of upgrading mine.

Hmmm, since the PS3 can't decode DTS-HD MA what will you get with PCM? 2 channel stereo? No idea. BTW, what receiver did you get. I'm thinking of upgrading mine.

I bought a Pioneer Elite VSX-81TXV. I own 2 other receivers, but neither has HDMI.

I bought a Pioneer Elite VSX-81TXV. I own 2 other receivers, but neither has HDMI.
Nice! I've got a Onkyo TX-SR600 and an even older Kenwood. I've been reading Lindahl's thread on "Future Proof" avr's. Still reading it. Haven't decided if I want to upgrade this year, or wait awhile for a HDMI capable avr.

Quick question about the bitstream/PCM setting on the PS3. I just got a HDMI 1.2 receiver, so which is the best setting? From what I've read on the forum, the general consensus is to set it to PCM for the uncompressed audio tracks on the Sony and Disney discs, but what about the DTS-HD MA tracks on the Fox Blu-ray discs? Should I switch it back to Bitstream for those, or can I leave it on PCM?Leave it on PCM. The PS3 will decode the core 1.5Mbps 5.1 DTS stream and output it over HDMI.

Yes, Samsung HL-S7178W. There's a setting in the DNIE portion of the service menu that will disable the dynamic black circuit. What an improvement! I suggest you go into your DNIE part of the service menu and toggle the settings on and off to see which one affects black level on your particular set -- make sure you note down the defaults in case you screw something up.

Good luck!

Was this on a Samsung HLS series? IF so, did it only affect 480p or also BD playback?

I ask b/c I have a samsung hls-6188 and wondered what you did to fix this.

Clipping of BTB and WTW levels isn't what my issue was with the PS3. My issue had to do with the fact that I changed the DNIe functionality in my service menu to turn off the dynamic black circuit while still retaining the other DNIe picture enhancements. However, the dynamic black level circuit was still active when watching PS3 DVDs, which I didn't initially realize. The reason for this is that some variables in the service menu are specific to the HDMI input mode, and dynamic black level on/off in the DNIe service menu is one of those settings. While I turned it off for 1080i/p input, I neglected to do so for the 480p mode.

Once I made that correction, PS3 DVDs look just fine. DNIe, in its default state, will cause black crush. Turning DNIe off fixes this issue, but you also lose the detail enhancement offered by this processing, which is why I just turned off the black crush in the service menu and all is fine. You just have to make sure you did it for each of the signals you watch -- 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p, etc.

I don't believe he is correct...I have a HLS5688W and have my PS3 connected via HDMI. I use Movie mode as I'm told its the best for viewing (see the samsung HLS87/88 threads). I adjusted my brightness/contrast using DVE and there is definately clipping going on. A standard DVD has better black levels using an old samsung combo DVD player using component then I do the PS3. The DVE disk definately show black and white being clipped.

Clipping of BTB and WTW levels isn't what my issue was with the PS3. My issue had to do with the fact that I changed the DNIe functionality in my service menu to turn off the dynamic black circuit while still retaining the other DNIe picture enhancements. However, the dynamic black level circuit was still active when watching PS3 DVDs, which I didn't initially realize. The reason for this is that some variables in the service menu are specific to the HDMI input mode, and dynamic black level on/off in the DNIe service menu is one of those settings. While I turned it off for 1080i/p input, I neglected to do so for the 480p mode.

Once I made that correction, PS3 DVDs look just fine. DNIe, in its default state, will cause black crush. Turning DNIe off fixes this issue, but you also lose the detail enhancement offered by this processing, which is why I just turned off the black crush in the service menu and all is fine. You just have to make sure you did it for each of the signals you watch -- 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p, etc.

So it seems for you, it was affecting 480 sources....not your 1080 sources since you didn't adjust that input. I personally dislike DNIE. But I also turned off the dynamic IRIS on my set and adjusted it's level manually. This disables floating black and made a huge improvement on ALL sources. But since I use my XA1 to upscale SD DVD, and my STB to upscale SD TV, only 1080i/p sources are passed to my set.

So what should I set the PS3's audio option to in order to get standard DD 5.1 through optical cable?

Set it to Bitstream!

Set it to Bitstream!

Thanks' for helping man, lot's of new options to deal with when we get new hardware :)

Ok guys, 85 pages of posts, but I just snagged my PS3 yesterday. Will be setting it up this weekend.

What should I know or do ?

I am sending it to a Panny AE900 and bitstream to a Pio 1015 ...

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Would it be possible for Sony to make an 8 analog cable connector for the PS3 so that we could get analog outs and be able to take advantage of the better audio tracks on the PS3? I am a little disappointed that since I am not upgrading my receiver to an HDMI receiver that I will have to 'settle' for optical out. Great picture, good audio is alright but great picture and great sound would be better. :D

Apparently not Kevin as the PS3 only has two enough DACs for 2 channels of audio. At least this is the answer I was provided with when I asked the same question a few weeks ago :(

Ok guys, 85 pages of posts, but I just snagged my PS3 yesterday. Will be setting it up this weekend.

What should I know or do ?

I am sending it to a Panny AE900 and bitstream to a Pio 1015 ...

Any suggestions would be appreciated.
How will you be sending to the projector, HDMI or component? I'm using the Panasonic as well, and due to needing a new preamp, I have to use component. From what I have gathered on this thread, HDMI will give you a better picture. Optical out, on the few movies I have watched on the PS3, sounds great.

Yes, Samsung HL-S7178W. There's a setting in the DNIE portion of the service menu that will disable the dynamic black circuit. What an improvement! I suggest you go into your DNIE part of the service menu and toggle the settings on and off to see which one affects black level on your particular set -- make sure you note down the defaults in case you screw something up.

Good luck!DNIe (and any other "dynamic" video setting/option) should be disabled whenever possible. Otherwise you can't properly calibrate the display. Strange things usually happen when the display thinks it knows better than you. :)

larry

Apparently not Kevin as the PS3 only has two enough DACs for 2 channels of audio. At least this is the answer I was provided with when I asked the same question a few weeks ago :(

Thanks M@rkus, it looks like it is optical for me until I upgrade my receiver.

DNIe actually produces quite nice results if you disable DNIe's black level adjustment via the service menu. I can't watch "movie" mode because the picture is way too soft and dark. Movie mode forces DNIe to be disabled.

DNIe makes a subtle difference on Blu-Ray content -- it enhances details just enough to make the picture really pop -- but it's effects are more pronounced with SD DVD sources.

I have to say that I love the PS3 as a DVD player! It launches BD movies in a fraction of the time as dedicated players, and hitting the on screen display button brings up all sorts of nice stats on the movie -- codec being used, bitstream rate, etc. The PS3 will also end up being the most upgradeable and future-proof Blu-Ray player on the market due to the certainty of future firmware releases.

I'm SO GLAD I invested in Blu-Ray versus the other format. Blu-Ray is just so much more advanced, and playing BD discs on a PS3 makes it feel even more advanced! :)

DNIe (and any other "dynamic" video setting/option) should be disabled whenever possible. Otherwise you can't properly calibrate the display. Strange things usually happen when the display thinks it knows better than you. :)

larry

Well, I walked into the Best Buy yesterday and thy had the PS3 20 GB so I bought it. Got it home and discovered I had to return to get a component AV cable (My HDTV is an older one with only component inputs). I got the cheaper component AV cable vs the HDTV component cable. Figured there was no difference except in price and the size of the cables.

Just go it hooked up and watched the first 5 minutes of Ricky Bobby. Looked awesum. Can't wait to play with it this this weekend. Wish I had looked at this thread before I hooked it up. Would have saved me lots of time... Ok so today I only read the first post and the last three days of posts.

By the way I was thinking of getting the DVD remote just because it looks more slick when I show it off using Blu Ray DVDs.

Wow. Another toy.

Rick R

The PS3 is THE BEST WAY to get into high definition DVD, period. It's the least expensive Blu-Ray player -- comparable in price to lower end HD-DVD players -- while also delivering a next generation gaming platform to boot. It's an awesome suite of technology, and when you add it all up, is a bargain at $499.

Also, the PS3 will boot and load Blu-Ray DVDs faster than any other consumer Blu-Ray or HD-DVD player. I read about Toshiba's 1st generation HD-DVD players taking over 60 seconds from the point you turned it on to actually displaying the first frame of video. I think the next gen units have improved that, but still can't compete with the PS3's load time.

Enjoy your unit, and report back on your experiences! I have Netflix and I run to the mailbox every day for my Blu-Ray! :)

So the talk is the March update might include DTS MA, but does anyone actually have a lead to that being the case or is it strictly rumor at this point?

i'm using my ps3 controller as a remote, works well imo.

So the talk is the March update might include DTS MA, but does anyone actually have a lead to that being the case or is it strictly rumor at this point?
As far as I know, it's just a rumor.

This Reciever doesnt accept audio via HDMI so I must you use optical for digital Audio. Do I get the same quality Audio from Optical output? Can I output Dolby Digital 5.1 or dolby TrueHD through optical?
Really? That sucks. From optical, you can DD, DTS, etc but not the uncompressed lossless tracks. The compressed tracks, to me, sound much fuller than the normal SD DVD tracks, so it's not a total loss.

Hey everyone
I'm a noob when it comes to Home Theatre Setup; And I have a question which I hope you guys can answer here. I know you guys have answered thousands of questions like that before but I hope you can help me
I'm soon going to buy a Sony AV reciever HTDDW900 which you can find the model info here


According to Sony's website, this reciever has these specifications:
DECODING FORMATS
Dolby Digital/DTS
Dolby Prologic
Dolby Prologic II
Dolby Dual Mono
96k/24Bit PCM

To get the best out of Bluray's Audio how should I setup my audio properties in PS3?
This reciever supports HDMI input and output) Should I use PCM or bitstream? What's the difference between these two? Will this receiver be able to handle Dolby TrueHD? When do you say Dolby Digital, does it mean stereo or 5.1 as well?
This Reciever doesnt accept audio via HDMI so I must you use the optical for digital Audio. Do I get the same quality Audio from Optical output? Can I output Dolby Digital 5.1 or dolby TrueHD through optical?
I know I have tons of questions; but please help me to make a good setup
Thanks in advance

PS: these are the inputs for this AV reciever
Audio In (2)/Out (1)
Front Input: AV
A/V In (4)/Out (1)
Monitor Out (1)
Component Video In (2)/Out (1) (HD Pass-Through)
5.1 Multi-channel In (1)
HDMI Digital In (2)/Out (1) (Switcher)
Optical Digital In (2)
Coaxial Digital In (1)
Subwoofer Pre Out (1)

This Reciever doesnt accept audio via HDMI so I must you use optical for digital Audio. Do I get the same quality Audio from Optical output? Can I output Dolby Digital 5.1 or dolby TrueHD through optical?

Make sure you find out if the receiver will allow you to take analog inputs from other components and output them via hdmi back to your TV if your TV has an HDMI input.

I have a friend who bought a sony avr (don't remember which model, but it looks similar to that one) and it also didn't accept audio via HDMI, so it may be the same model. Anyway, the main issue I have with the avr (and why I tried to get him to take it back) is because it will only allow video pass-through for HDMI sources. In other words, if your STB or DVD player is hooked up via component cables, you can only send the video signal to your tv via component cables.

He actually has units hooked up to the receiver using composite, component, and hdmi cables, which means he has to run composite, component, and hdmi cables to his TV. In my opinion, the defeats the purpose of having an hdmi receiver. Look into that issue if it's at all important to you.

Brandon

I just got my PS3 remote from Amazon and I have to say that I dislike it tremendously. Tiny buttons, no backlighting, the Stop button placed between the Play and Pause buttons.

I'll go back to using the game controller since it is much easier to use in the dark even though it doesn't have backlighting either. The only real problem I seem to have with the controller is I have inadvertently pushed the R1 or L1 buttons when I've picked it up and advanced chapters.
I got mine a couple of weeks ago and I don't have a problem with it. It's better than trying to use the game controller.

I am hoping Harmony will have some work around in the future (either a 880 w/bluetooth capability or a IR to bluetooth converter)

Really? That sucks. From optical, you can DD, DTS, etc but not the uncompressed lossless tracks. The compressed tracks, to me, sound much fuller than the normal SD DVD tracks, so it's not a total loss.

What is it about HDMI that allows for uncompressed lossess tracks? Does it just support higher bandwidth than an optical cable?

What is it about HDMI that allows for uncompressed lossess tracks? Does it just support higher bandwidth than an optical cable?
I do believe that's the reason.

Toslink: 125 Mbps
HDMI 1.0: 4.9Gbps
HDMI 1.3: 10.2 Gbps

Not sure how to compare the various rates since HDMI carries video and audio and Toslink only has to carry audio.

Thanks
So if a particular BD disc supports Dolby trueHD (which cant be sent over optical) what kind a sound will I get from optical to my reciever?
Will the PS3 send regular Dolby Digital 5.1 or it will downconvert to 2.1 Channels?
Thanks in advance
It should have the DD 5.1 compressed core so I'd expect DD 5.1.
But you do have to set the PS3 to send it out as a bitstream to get 5.1 else you'll get 2.0 via PCM.

Nihonjin?

I got mine a couple of weeks ago and I don't have a problem with it. It's better than trying to use the game controller.

I am hoping Harmony will have some work around in the future (either a 880 w/bluetooth capability or a IR to bluetooth converter)

It's a shame we have to use the controller or the PS3 remote, neither of which is very satisfactory compared to a good universal remote.

I've tried again, but I just can't use the PS3 remote unless the room is well lit. The tiny buttons along with the tiny lettering, especially for Display, Top Menu, Popup Menu, Return, etc. are just impossible to see.

I suppose with enough time, I'll memorize the button layout and can pick up the correct buttons by touch, but I'd much rather use my mx-500 and not have to learn the button layout of a second remote.

I do believe that's the reason.

Toslink: 125 Mbps
HDMI 1.0: 4.9Gbps
HDMI 1.3: 10.2 Gbps

Not sure how to compare the various rates since HDMI carries video and audio and Toslink only has to carry audio.

It may not be the cables so much as it is the interface. It's like USB 1 and 2; both use the same cables, but USB 2 allows for more bandwidth due to the interface.

Another reason is the copy protection with HDMI.

It's a shame we have to use the controller or the PS3 remote, neither of which is very satisfactory compared to a good universal remote.

I've tried again, but I just can't use the PS3 remote unless the room is well lit. The tiny buttons along with the tiny lettering, especially for Display, Top Menu, Popup Menu, Return, etc. are just impossible to see.

I suppose with enough time, I'll memorize the button layout and can pick up the correct buttons by touch, but I'd much rather use my mx-500 and not have to learn the button layout of a second remote.
I've stated before that I actually prefer the controller over the remote, but lately I've been hitting buttons (triggers?) by mistake. More me being careless than anything, I guess.

I have a question about the ps3 loader. I had a ps2 and the loader went bad and it had to be sent in for disc read errors I am wondering if the build quality of the loader is better in the ps3 or is it advisbale to get a dedicated bd player.

I've stated before that I actually prefer the controller over the remote, but lately I've been hitting buttons (triggers?) by mistake. More me being careless than anything, I guess.

Yeah, I set the controller down and it started fast-forwarding. :)

I went ahead and got the remote though. I don't have a fancy universal remote, and the Bluetooth works out nice anyway. Because it's connected to my ceiling-mounted projector, the system is behind me, and with other remotes I have to hold them up and point them back.

I wonder if there are any menu-driven games you could play with the remote.

Finally caved and nabbed one.

Hooked it up to my Panny AE900.

Did the update to 1.3.2 (Is that right or is there another ? )

Checked out a few moments of Underworld...

LOOKS SWEET !

WHat's the best price seen on the remote ?

Mine seems to disconnect from the net all the time. Why might that be ? (I am in the basement mind you).

Yeah, I set the controller down and it started fast-forwarding. :)

I went ahead and got the remote though. I don't have a fancy universal remote, and the Bluetooth works out nice anyway. Because it's connected to my ceiling-mounted projector, the system is behind me, and with other remotes I have to hold them up and point them back.

I wonder if there are any menu-driven games you could play with the remote.
I know what you're saying. I alway's feel like an idiot when I have to hold my arm up and point the remote behind me. Especially in a room full of people. I don't have a fancy universal remote either. I'm using a little $30 job from best Buy. I never intended on keeping it, but....It works. Except for not being RF, that is.

Hey guys, just looking for some opinions...

I have my PS3 hooked up to my Samsung HL-S6188 via HDMI and to my receiver (Denon AVR-4806) via optical since the AVR can't pass a 1080p signal to the display.

The picture quality is stellar, but I'm curious to hear what you all think I should do for audio...

Does anybody know if the CI upgrade for the AVR-4806 will allow the 1080p video passthrough and the lossless audio codecs via HDMI?

Anyone else in my situation?

In the interim, how should I have the PS3 output the audio while I am using optical for the best all-around sound quality (and assurance of a dedicated LFE channel all the time)?

Grazie in advance.

I have my PS3 hooked up to my Samsung HL-S6188 via HDMI and to my receiver (Denon AVR-4806) via optical since the AVR can't pass a 1080p signal to the display.

How should I have the PS3 output the audio while I am using optical for the best all-around sound quality (and assurance of a dedicated LFE channel all the time)? Set PS3 to bitstream to allow your AVR to decode 5.1 channel DD or DTS. Otherwise you'll only get 2.0 channel PCM (with ProLogic II for the surround).

- Talk

I'm soon going to buy a Sony AV reciever HTDDW900 which you can find the model info here

This Reciever doesnt accept audio via HDMI so I must you use optical for digital Audio. Do I get the same quality Audio from Optical output? Can I output Dolby Digital 5.1 or dolby TrueHD through optical?I would not recommend you buy this. Lack of HDMI audio support will greatly limit the audio quality you can get from a PS3. You'll only be able to get 5.1 DD or DTS, no TrueHD, no lossless PCM (except for two channel). For less than $100 more you can definitely get a receiver supporting HDMI decoding, not just switching. It would be well-worth it.

I think you may want to check with Denon for their $500 AVR-4806 upgrade -- it will allow 1080p pass-thru, among other things. Info can be found here (http://www.audioholics.com/ces/CESprocessors/Denonreceiverupgrades.php) .

I have a Denon AVR-4306 (lower model than yours) and it passes 1080p just fine... Setting your HDMI port preference on the Denon to either "1080i" or "pass-thru" will enable a 1080p signal to go through. I verified this by going into the service menu, which tells you exactly what's coming into the TV. When watching Blu-Ray on my PS3, or even in its XMB menu, the Sammy showed a 1080p signal. When I switched to my satellite receiver, it showed a 1080i signal because my receiver can only output 1080i -- and these were all run through the Denon AVR-4306 first.

The Denon AVR-4306 (and most likely your 4806) is the most amazing receiver ever. It will pass a 1080p signal AND accept digital audio through HDMI for surround processing. The 4306 is also very attractively priced.

Hey guys, just looking for some opinions...

I have my PS3 hooked up to my Samsung HL-S6188 via HDMI and to my receiver (Denon AVR-4806) via optical since the AVR can't pass a 1080p signal to the display.

The picture quality is stellar, but I'm curious to hear what you all think I should do for audio...

Does anybody know if the CI upgrade for the AVR-4806 will allow the 1080p video passthrough and the lossless audio codecs via HDMI?

Anyone else in my situation?

In the interim, how should I have the PS3 output the audio while I am using optical for the best all-around sound quality (and assurance of a dedicated LFE channel all the time)?

Grazie in advance.

Hi Guys,

Please can someone help with the reset button sequence for the Denon AVR 4306?

Thanks

Thanks for the posts guys!

I would like to do the IR work around for my PS3. However, with my PS3 powered off, I insert a BD, which causes the unit to power up and go into playback mode. At least the PS3 thinks it's in playback mode. All I get is a black screen with no sound. If I hit "X", "Square" or "Triangle" during this time the PS3 says "This Function is Currently Disabled". When I hit the "Circle" button it asks "Do you want to stop playback?". If I say no, the screen stays black and no sound. If I say yes, the PS3 goes to the crossbar menu. The disk will play fine at this point from the crossbar menu.

If I power the PS3 up before I insert a BD, it goes to the crossbar menu and all is well with BD playback. This problem only occurs when I try and insert a BD into the PS3 when it is powered down.

I am running the latest PS3 firmware. Can someone try this on their PS3? Turn on your TV/Projector first, then insert a BD into your PS3 which is powered off. If your movie comes up and plays, I've got a defective unit. If yours acts like mine, we've got an issue with the new firmware regarding this feature.

I would like to do the IR work around for my PS3. However, with my PS3 powered off, I insert a BD, which causes the unit to power up and go into playback mode. At least the PS3 thinks it's in playback mode. All I get is a black screen with no sound. If I hit "X", "Square" or "Triangle" during this time the PS3 says "This Function is Currently Disabled". When I hit the "Circle" button it asks "Do you want to stop playback?". If I say no, the screen stays black and no sound. If I say yes, the PS3 goes to the crossbar menu. The disk will play fine at this point from the crossbar menu.

If I power the PS3 up before I insert a BD, it goes to the crossbar menu and all is well with BD playback. This problem only occurs when I try and insert a BD into the PS3 when it is powered down.

I am running the latest PS3 firmware. Can someone try this on their PS3? Turn on your TV/Projector first, then insert a BD into your PS3 which is powered off. If your movie comes up and plays, I've got a defective unit. If yours acts like mine, we've got an issue with the new firmware regarding this feature.
Just double checked. When I stick in a BD when the PS3 is off, it turns on and starts the movie.

yuichiror, does your PS3 have the latest firmware? If it does. I'll box mine back up and exchange it for another one.

yuichiror, does your PS3 have the latest firmware? If it does. I'll box mine back up and exchange it for another one.
Yup, I've got 1.32.
If it makes a diff, I'm running HDMI to DVI for video and optical for audio.

NEVERMIND! Damn HDCP, my monoprice switcher was fighting between my HD-A1 and my PS3. Once I powered off the HD-A1, the PS3 powered up and played fine when inserting the BD...

Well, I had two more lockups when watching A Knight's Tale last night. Perhaps the PS3 was telling me what I already knew... the movie's crappy and it was gagging on it. :D

Does anyone know if Sony is working on stabilizing the buffer allocation as this seemed to be a problem with the first HD-DVD players?

Dan

I would like to do the IR work around for my PS3. However, with my PS3 powered off, I insert a BD, which causes the unit to power up and go into playback mode. At least the PS3 thinks it's in playback mode. All I get is a black screen with no sound. If I hit "X", "Square" or "Triangle" during this time the PS3 says "This Function is Currently Disabled". When I hit the "Circle" button it asks "Do you want to stop playback?". If I say no, the screen stays black and no sound. If I say yes, the PS3 goes to the crossbar menu. The disk will play fine at this point from the crossbar menu.

If I power the PS3 up before I insert a BD, it goes to the crossbar menu and all is well with BD playback. This problem only occurs when I try and insert a BD into the PS3 when it is powered down.

I am running the latest PS3 firmware. Can someone try this on their PS3? Turn on your TV/Projector first, then insert a BD into your PS3 which is powered off. If your movie comes up and plays, I've got a defective unit. If yours acts like mine, we've got an issue with the new firmware regarding this feature.

This exact thing happened to me last night. It happened exactly as you described. This was the first time the PS3 wasn't on before inserting a disc. Every other time the system was already at the main toolbar and it worked fine. Like your situation, it played perfectly after entering from the main toolbar?? My disc was Training Day (rental) and I have 1.32 firmware.

two questions:

- what is the cheapest place (online store) to get the ps3 20gb?
- is it possible yet to use linux for video playback of some h264 files?

NEVERMIND! Damn HDCP, my monoprice switcher was fighting between my HD-A1 and my PS3. Once I powered off the HD-A1, the PS3 powered up and played fine when inserting the BD...
LOL, I'm glad you don't have to return it now.

Nothing new to report, really. I just had to add that since I have gotten the PS3, it has been a joy to use. When I reviewed (and eventually bought) my HD-A2, the speed and convenience factor wasn't that big of a deal. Now, having used the PS3, It does make a difference. Very happy with the playstation as a BD only player.

Same here, except I just bought new speakers. I've been watching BD's everyday. So far just one lockup.
I think I have good karma for electronics :p

Just recently acquired a Marantz SR5001 reciever to go with my PS3. Been running hdmi through the Marantz and output to my Philips LCD TV. Right now I am having an issue only playing BD where occasionally the BD would work and other occasions the screen is blank and when I try to stop the playback it doesn't work (works fine with the games though). When I run the PS3 to the LCD TV no problems works fine.

Am I having a handshake problem with the HDMI from the Marantz to the TV or is there some setting I am missing (configured the audio and visual using the auto detect)

Just recently acquired a Marantz SR5001 reciever to go with my PS3. Been running hdmi through the Marantz and output to my Philips LCD TV. Right now I am having an issue only playing BD where occasionally the BD would work and other occasions the screen is blank and when I try to stop the playback it doesn't work (works fine with the games though). When I run the PS3 to the LCD TV no problems works fine.

Am I having a handshake problem with the HDMI from the Marantz to the TV or is there some setting I am missing (configured the audio and visual using the auto detect)

Do you have the latest firmware of 1.32? I am having the same problem where the PS3 just hangs after putting in a Blu-Ray movie and you have to shut down by the power button the PS3 because it won't go back to the XMB. Turning off the PS3 completely worked only one time for me as it played a Blu-Ray movie, but then after that I tried another movie and it hung up on the grey screen. Now it has not played a Blu-Ray movie at all since this started happening today. I just got the PS3 yesterday.

Techwisenyc,

Yes I have updated to firmware 1.32, and like you the PS3 won't go back to the main display page

Techwisenyc,

Yes I have updated to firmware 1.32, and like you the PS3 won't go back to the main display page


Apparently, some in the PS3 forum are having the same problem. One guy stated that he exchaged his PS3 and didn't update it then worked fine. He then updated to 1.32 and it started doing it again. It might be a firmware issue that dosen't play well with HDMI hanshaking with some devices.

I have a question about connecting my PS3's audio to my receiver. I only have one optical in which is being used by my 360. Does anyone know of a splitter of some sort which would allow me to connect two optical inputs into one input on my receiver? I've seen a switch online but I don't want something I have to manually switch. I can't seem to find anything to split two sources into one connection and i'm not exactly up for purchasing a new receiver. Also, if there is such a splitter would the quality be compromised by using a splitter? Thanks.

You need an auto sensing optical switch so it will automatically switch to the active input. Or an optical switch with a remote.

I'm having a hard time figuring out if my PS3 can do this.

For years, I've used both RF output and composite output from my DBS decoder to send signal to both my home theatre projector *and* my family room tv. That way I could watch the TV alone, or drop the screen and watch tv from the projector.

Currently, I have a PS3 hooked up via HDMI to my projector. Obviously, I'd rather my kids not burn up hours and hours of bulb time playing their games.

If I hook up the standard video/stereo out line to the TV in my den, also, will the ps3 be able to send 480i out on video at the same time? Or does the PS3 do image conversion "all or nothing"?

I can't find the answer from the sony docs. Has anyone already tried this?

It doesn't output to both at the same time. So you can do what you want, but you'll have to manually switch the output in the setup menu.

You need an auto sensing optical switch so it will automatically switch to the active input. Or an optical switch with a remote.

Any idea where I can find one of these? I have found splitters that allow one output into two inputs, but not the other way around.

Any idea where I can find one of these? I have found splitters that allow one output into two inputs, but not the other way around.

not autosensing so you need to flip a switch but this should work as far as I can tell.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10423&cs_id=1042302&p_id=2946&seq=1&format=2&style=

There are also optical-to-coax converters, if your receiver has a spare coax input.

not autosensing so you need to flip a switch but this should work as far as I can tell.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10423&cs_id=1042302&p_id=2946&seq=1&format=2&style=

Thanks for the link.... I actually found this on the same site as well:

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=104&cp_id=10423&cs_id=1042301&p_id=966&seq=1&format=2&style=

One of the customer reviews says it works in reverse of it's intended operation feeding two sources into one.... think I may give it a try for the price and simplicity of not having to manually switch anything.

Just recently acquired a Marantz SR5001 reciever to go with my PS3. Been running hdmi through the Marantz and output to my Philips LCD TV. Right now I am having an issue only playing BD where occasionally the BD would work and other occasions the screen is blank and when I try to stop the playback it doesn't work (works fine with the games though). When I run the PS3 to the LCD TV no problems works fine.

Am I having a handshake problem with the HDMI from the Marantz to the TV or is there some setting I am missing (configured the audio and visual using the auto detect)
Zaakath, there is a thread in the amp,receiver, processor section for Marantz folks. I know the HDMI handshake issue has been much discussed. You may find what you need over there.

Two questions for those of you who are experiencing PS3 lock-ups on BD playback:

Are you using HDMI and, if so, is the colorspace set to Auto, RGB, or YCbCr?

Following the 1.32 update, I forced the colorspace to YCbCr without really thinking about the potential consequences. Then the lock-ups started. Recently, I switched back to RGB to run some tests and have not had a single lock-up since. Perhaps it's merely coincidence...

Chase

Nothing new to report, really. I just had to add that since I have gotten the PS3, it has been a joy to use. When I reviewed (and eventually bought) my HD-A2, the speed and convenience factor wasn't that big of a deal. Now, having used the PS3, It does make a difference. Very happy with the playstation as a BD only player.

Same here. I bought the PS3 a couple of days ago with the remote :) . Using it as a blu ray movie player mainly (although I'll likely rent a few games shortly just to see 1080p games). I love it. I have the Toshiba A1 as well and also think it's great.

In terms of the PS3 though, having now watched Taladega Nights, Kingdom of Heaven, 8 Below and Speed, every title was great, yes even Taladega Nights. My HP 1080p 65" DLP loves the 1080p/60 feed from the PS3 and what a great picture it is. There is a slight difference between 1080p/60 on the PS3 and 1080i/60 on the A1. I would describe 1080p/60 as ever so slightly smoother while the A1 delivers a sharp and maybe more video quality picture. The PS3 has a greater film like look to it. And when I say smooth I don't mean 'soft'. Detail is still great with great saturation of colors. Both the A1 and PS3 deliver a great picture one way or the other. Very happy with the PS3. Now to start buying some movies. I have about 58 for HD DVD.

This exact thing happened to me last night. It happened exactly as you described. This was the first time the PS3 wasn't on before inserting a disc. Every other time the system was already at the main toolbar and it worked fine. Like your situation, it played perfectly after entering from the main toolbar?? My disc was Training Day (rental) and I have 1.32 firmware.

Hello everyone, I have been looking around the last few weeks and decided to Join your forum.
My 20 GB PS3 has the same problem When I insert a DB to power up my unit...I have the same problem as everyone else. Other than that I love the PS3 as a Blu-ray player! I have It hooked to two HD TV's at the same time(one at a time) in two different rooms (one via HDMI the other through AV component)(I just change the display properties change between TV's) The PS3 bluetooth remote works great through our master bedroom wall as my PS3 is up on our shelf in the family room. :)

I got a ? what receivers work with the ps3 with no problems. i've read on here people are have problems hooking ps3 to receiver with HDMI and not getting 1080p to work correctly. So i'm curious to know if any receivers work correctly.

P.S. I want to hook a Ps3 to a onkyo tx-sr674 or sony str-dg1000 via HDMI and then from rec. to a Sharp LC-46D62U 46" via hdmi. Has any one done this setup or any type of setups with Ps3?

Denon AVR-4306 works with the PS3 without a hitch for both video and audio via HDMI. The AVR-4306 will pass the PS3's 1080p signal to the display without issue.

thanxs for the repley but that denon is out of my price range

denon 2807, perhaps?

Alright, I am having a problem with my PS3.

I was watching Gridiron Gang and the audio would sometimes cut out for about half a second. And it would continue doing it every minute or so.

I checked the discs for any scratches, none. I cleaned it just to be safe. Put it back in, did the same thing. It was still doing it. I turned the PS3 off for two minutes, started it up again and we have the same proble.

Soooo I thought it was my receiver. I change the settings from optical going to my receiver to HDMI to my TV. Yup, still there.

Okay, maybe it is the movie. I put in Ice Age 2, a different movie, a different company and it has DTS. It is still doing it, though not as often.

Anyone else having this problem?? I gave it a break tonight and will try it again tomorrow, but if it still happens Sony is going to get a call from me.

90 day warranty, right?

looks like i'm just gonna use my old receiver for now and hook ps3 to tv via hdmi and then use optical from ps3 to receiver for sound. Seems that the hdmi receiver have to many flickering etc. problems with ps3 and 1080p.

I'm waiting on my receiver until they iron out the HDMI 1.3 and handshake issues.

I got a ? what receivers work with the ps3 with no problems. i've read on here people are have problems hooking ps3 to receiver with HDMI and not getting 1080p to work correctly. So i'm curious to know if any receivers work correctly.

P.S. I want to hook a Ps3 to a onkyo tx-sr674 or sony str-dg1000 via HDMI and then from rec. to a Sharp LC-46D62U 46" via hdmi. Has any one done this setup or any type of setups with Ps3?

I have the Panasonic XR700 and it works with PS3 and my A1...

The PS3 has a one year warranty.

Alright, I am having a problem with my PS3.

I was watching Gridiron Gang and the audio would sometimes cut out for about half a second. And it would continue doing it every minute or so.

I checked the discs for any scratches, none. I cleaned it just to be safe. Put it back in, did the same thing. It was still doing it. I turned the PS3 off for two minutes, started it up again and we have the same proble.

Soooo I thought it was my receiver. I change the settings from optical going to my receiver to HDMI to my TV. Yup, still there.

Okay, maybe it is the movie. I put in Ice Age 2, a different movie, a different company and it has DTS. It is still doing it, though not as often.

Anyone else having this problem?? I gave it a break tonight and will try it again tomorrow, but if it still happens Sony is going to get a call from me.

90 day warranty, right?

Two questions for those of you who are experiencing PS3 lock-ups on BD playback:

Are you using HDMI and, if so, is the colorspace set to Auto, RGB, or YCbCr?

Following the 1.32 update, I forced the colorspace to YCbCr without really thinking about the potential consequences. Then the lock-ups started. Recently, I switched back to RGB to run some tests and have not had a single lock-up since. Perhaps it's merely coincidence...

Chase

Is this a setting on the PS3 on on your monitor? If it's on the PS3 where do I find it?

Is this a setting on the PS3 on on your monitor? If it's on the PS3 where do I find it?

Off memory, I believe you go into the PS3 xmb, BD/DVD Playback or Settings, and somewhere in there is a colorspace output setting.

On the warranty topic...does anybody think it's a bit odd that there is no warranty documentation in the PS3 retail box? I searched for it because I read about the full year warranty and didn't see a warranty card or anything inside. Did I just not search enough, not get one, or was it not included purposefully?

Brandon

I registered mine online. Look at the Playstation Underground registration card. It says Sony will honor the warranty whether or not you register it.

Is the registration card the thing that came in the box? I'll check when I get home from work. I registered mine online as well.

Brandon

Is the registration card the thing that came in the box?
Yup!

Does anybody know if I can stream video from a pc to the ps3? Specifically, I want to stream Netflix' new "Watch Now" service to the ps3 or maybe my HR20 dvr.

My pc is not hooked up to my display, but I have my ps3 hooked up through wi-fi and I can hook up both the ps3 and the HR20 through ethernet if I need to.

Has anyone tried this yet? :confused:

Does anybody know if I can stream video from a pc to the ps3? Specifically, I want to stream Netflix' new "Watch Now" service to the ps3 or maybe my HR20 dvr.

My pc is not hooked up to my display, but I have my ps3 hooked up through wi-fi and I can hook up both the ps3 and the HR20 through ethernet if I need to.

Has anyone tried this yet? :confused:
Where's my "Watch Now" link????
How does it work? Browser based? What viewer? Have you tried using the PS3's build in web browser to access Netflix and use the Watch Now function?

Is this a setting on the PS3 or on your monitor? If it's on the PS3 where do I find it?PS3. From the XMB, go to Settings > BD/DVD Settings > BD/DVD Video Output Format (HDMI). You should be able to select Auto, RGB, or YCbCr.

Note that you must be running at least v1.3.

Chase

Where's my "Watch Now" link????
How does it work? Browser based? What viewer? Have you tried using the PS3's build in web browser to access Netflix and use the Watch Now function?

I guess I'm one of the test people. Probably because I live fairly close to the netflix headquarters.

I had to download the player from Netflix. I haven't tried it on the ps3 browser yet, but I think I'd have to download the player to the ps3. I'm not sure if I can do that. Maybe if I download it to my jumpdrive and try to install it through the usb port of the ps3? I'm not too computer savy :o .

It's not going to work if it requires a Windows program to be installed.

Why when I choose 1080p on my PS3 the screen on my 1080p LCD has really bad video distortion/flickering/breakup/jiggling, whatever you want to call it but only with 1080p. When I choose 1080i the PS3 works fine.

The PS3 is going thru the Onkyo 674 HDMI Receiver first but so is the XA2 and that works fine when set at 1080p.

When the Onkyo is removed out of the equation and I connect the PS3 via HDMI directly to the TV, the 1080p works fine.

PS3. From the XMB, go to Settings > BD/DVD Settings > BD/DVD Video Output Format (HDMI). You should be able to select Auto, RGB, or YCbCr.

Note that you must be running at least v1.3.

Chase

Thank you, I assume that if I am using HDMI I should leave it a RGB?

Thank you, I assume that if I am using HDMI I should leave it a RGB?Why wouldn't you set it on auto?

So I finished Transporter, ejected it ready to insert KOH, and BOOM: it says update 1.5 is available. Beginning download shortly and probably headed to bed. Just thought I'd let folks know. Also, it didn't appear on the website yet. They still have 1.32 listed.

AJG

Hey, I saw that 1.5 update last night too while I tried to log on to the network. I downloaded it, but I have no idea what was fixed/added. I thought this was only for Japan???

Why when I choose 1080p on my PS3 the screen on my 1080p LCD has really bad video distortion/flickering/breakup/jiggling, whatever you want to call it but only with 1080p. When I choose 1080i the PS3 works fine.

The PS3 is going thru the Onkyo 674 HDMI Receiver first but so is the XA2 and that works fine when set at 1080p.

When the Onkyo is removed out of the equation and I connect the PS3 via HDMI directly to the TV, the 1080p works fine.

Have you tried switching HDMI cables? Are you sure your Onkyo can output 1080p?

I didnt think the XA2 could be set to 1080p?

Any ideas on the update ?

Any ideas on the update ?
Rumored updates from the PS3 forums:
Key tone was added under sound settings.
You can now group your music content at the touch of the square button.
updated the Wireless radio to be compatible with WEP as well as WPA/WPK
Custom avatars
security updates
accessed the Playstation Store and noticed that the cursor seems to move faster using the Sixaxis controller
Jagged edges seen with PS1/2 games now resolved: http://kotaku.com/gaming/ps3/latest-ps3-firmware-hits-fixes-bc-graphical-issues-231003.php

few more things under the BD section (Yuichiror:I didn't see anything)

This is the update explanation page:http://www.us.playstation.com/ps3/network/updates

Generally they update this page 24 hours after the newest firmware is availible.

hi all,
iim posting to ask some self serving questions. this thread is already 2628 post long and 88 pages, so i'm sure the needed info has been put out there. i just am hoping to avoid having to read two thousand past post. i'd like to just keep up going forward. please indulge me.
i'm an hd dvd, toshiba xa2 guy so far. to expand my high definition content horizons i am getting a ps3 today. the retailer says they have 20 gig and 60 gig in ample supply. if this is for movie play back only, which unit seems be the best way to go? my other question, has anyone prepared a consise, step by step tutorial for quick, easy and practical setup of the ps3 as a bd movie player. can someone point to a post# or link?

thanks

I can't help you with a tutorial for the setup, but I can tell you that if you are strictly buying the PS3 as a blu ray player then you most definitely want the 20gb version. The bigger hard drive, wireless adapter, and multimedia card slots of the 60gb version do not improve blu ray playback at all. The 20gb PS3 is a good value as purely a blu ray player. If you were interested in gaming and some of the other multimedia aspects of the PS3 things may be different.

Also, if the Playstation store or Sony ever offers some type of video downloading service in the future, keep in mind that the 20gb hard drive is upgradeable (at your own cost, of course) without voiding the warranty so the smaller hard drive will not hamper you in the future.

Brandon

hi all,
iim posting to ask some self serving questions. this thread is already 2628 post long and 88 pages, so i'm sure the needed info has been put out there. i just am hoping to avoid having to read two thousand past post. i'd like to just keep up going forward. please indulge me.
i'm an hd dvd, toshiba xa2 guy so far. to expand my high definition content horizons i am getting a ps3 today. the retailer says they have 20 gig and 60 gig in ample supply. if this is for movie play back only, which unit seems be the best way to go? my other question, has anyone prepared a consise, step by step tutorial for quick, easy and practical setup of the ps3 as a bd movie player. can someone point to a post# or link?

thanks

i'm using the 20gb ps3 as a blu-ray player and i have 8 ps3 games and 4 ps2 games stored into my 20gb ps3 with still tons of memory left...i could store memory for 20 more games if i wanted. no need for 60gb unless you need wi-fi or are going to download music, movies, etc.....from the internet. 60gb also has a memory card reader, for people who dont know how to plug in a usb cable..lol bluray playback is identical between the 2 versions of ps3 so no worrys.

hi all,
iim posting to ask some self serving questions. this thread is already 2628 post long and 88 pages, so i'm sure the needed info has been put out there. i just am hoping to avoid having to read two thousand past post. i'd like to just keep up going forward. please indulge me.
i'm an hd dvd, toshiba xa2 guy so far. to expand my high definition content horizons i am getting a ps3 today. the retailer says they have 20 gig and 60 gig in ample supply. if this is for movie play back only, which unit seems be the best way to go? my other question, has anyone prepared a consise, step by step tutorial for quick, easy and practical setup of the ps3 as a bd movie player. can someone point to a post# or link?

thanks

I just bought the 60Gb one last weekend. I bought it because I couldn't find the 20, but in retrospect I am glad I got the 60. There is a lot of free stuff available for download at the Sony store. There are HD movie trailers and playable demos of many of the games. I don't plan to do much if any game playing, but I did want to see the graphics capabilities of the machine in action. I think I've already filled up about 15Gb.

Joe

Setting up the PS3 is pretty straightforward, I think I just plugged in the HDMI cable, and it autodetected 1080p. Audio was a little tricker, I had to traverse some menus to select the correct output (I connected with Toslink).

As far as playing movies, while the PS3 is off, you just insert a movie, and the PS3 will suck up the disc, turn itself on, and start playing the movie in about 10 seconds.

Thank you, I assume that if I am using HDMI I should leave it at RGB?Not necessarily. Normally, you would decide whether to send RGB or Component (YCbCr) to your display based on things such as compatibility (some displays won't accept one or the other), chroma resolution, etc. I am using RGB right now because it appears to resolve the lock-up problems I was having during BD playback.

Why wouldn't you set it on Auto?When I set the PS3 to Auto, it sends Component to my display. I want it to send only RGB for the time being.

Chase

1.5 firmware update contains(as from the PS3 update page):
* Users
o You can now select an image to use as the User icon from [Photo].
* Settings
o [Key Tone] has been added as an option under [Sound Settings].
o [Delete Backup Data] has been added as an option under [System Settings] > [Backup Utility].
o WEP 128, WPA-PSK (TKIP) and WPA-PSK (AES) have been added as security methods that can be used with [AOSS™] under [Automatic].*
* If you have already set up for AOSS using an earlier version of the system software, you must perform AOSS setup again to use the security methods listed above.
* When [Automatic] is selected, the security method to be used is automatically set.
* AOSS is a trademark of Buffalo, Inc.
* Friends
o The method for saving your password / signing in automatically under PLAYSTATION®Network has been changed. There are now two separate options.

* Other
o You can now enter text in Korean using the on-screen keyboard.

Was the BD movie playing lockup problem solved in version 1.5? I have avoided hooking my PS3 up to the internet because of this reported lock up problem. My PS3 works fine with the shipped software and plays BD movies fantastically. The only reason I would hook up to the internet is for some free games I guess.

I have the 20GB PS3 but I have an ethernet cable that I can hook up when I am ready to go online.

Rick R

What firmware is yours running on?

Brandon

iim posting to ask some self serving questions. this thread is already 2628 post long and 88 pages, so i'm sure the needed info has been put out there. i just am hoping to avoid having to read two thousand past post. ... please indulge me.
thanks


just want to follow up my earlier post and thank all for the quickly posted comments to my beginners questions about using the ps3 for bd movie play back. i'm now format neutral in the true sense.

thanks,

darryl b

Was the BD movie playing lockup problem solved in version 1.5? I have avoided hooking my PS3 up to the internet because of this reported lock up problem. My PS3 works fine with the shipped software and plays BD movies fantastically. The only reason I would hook up to the internet is for some free games I guess.

I have the 20GB PS3 but I have an ethernet cable that I can hook up when I am ready to go online.

Rick R
It's not listed, but I'm sure there's alot of little fixes that aren't made public. If you're only using it for BD playback, then I wouldn't worry about updating if you're not having any issues. Until there's a BD specific update....
BTW, I have yet to see a significant issue with BD playback and I've gotten each update as they were released.
Oh, yeah, if you ever put in a game that requires a specific firmware update, the game will install it from the BD.

i'm using the 20gb ps3 as a blu-ray player and i have 8 ps3 games and 4 ps2 games stored into my 20gb ps3 with still tons of memory left...i could store memory for 20 more games if i wanted. no need for 60gb unless you need wi-fi or are going to download music, movies, etc.....from the internet. 60gb also has a memory card reader, for people who dont know how to plug in a usb cable..lol bluray playback is identical between the 2 versions of ps3 so no worrys.

This might be a dumb question, but is it easy to store PS3 and PS2 games on the hard drive. Are you saying that the games can be stored or the game info? Thanks. That would be nice if I can download my PS2 games onto the PS3 Harddrive. Thank!

This might be a dumb question, but is it easy to store PS3 and PS2 games on the hard drive. Are you saying that the games can be stored or the game info? Thanks. That would be nice if I can download my PS2 games onto the PS3 Harddrive. Thank!

No, he was referring to save data.

Except for connecting my ps3 to the internet, what's the easiest way i can download 1.5 on it?

Except for connecting my ps3 to the internet, what's the easiest way i can download 1.5 on it?
USB drive: http://www.us.playstation.com/ps3/network/updates/pc_update.html#update_PC
Note the required directory structure.

We can use both USB keys or CD media correct ?

We can use both USB keys or CD media correct ?
Don't know about CD's, but you can update the firmware via BD game.

If the PS3 HDMI is being used for video, will the optical still carry the audio?

Don't know about CD's, but you can update the firmware via BD game.

I suppose so, but if I were him I'd find a way to do it from the internet or storage. He would be weeks behind, as new updates would have to be added to games not manufactured yet.

If the PS3 HDMI is being used for video, will the optical still carry the audio?

You can configure the PS3 to send audio to either HDMI or optical. However, you cannot send audio to both at the same time

I suppose so, but if I were him I'd find a way to do it from the internet or storage. He would be weeks behind, as new updates would have to be added to games not manufactured yet.
I agree. Go buy a cheap USB drive.

What firmware is yours running on?

Brandon
Checked last night. It has 1.0.

Rick R

Great.

Can you then confirm or deny the rumor that PS3's with factory firmware 1.0 can output Blu Ray discs at 720p resolution? I'm not familiar with your setup, but if you have an hdtv could you test this out for me?

Brandon

Great.

Can you then confirm or deny the rumor that PS3's with factory firmware 1.0 can output Blu Ray discs at 720p resolution? I'm not familiar with your setup, but if you have an hdtv could you test this out for me?

Brandon
Is that an issue? If I remember correctly you can set the output resolution to 720p now for BD's, right?

Since when? Is this a recent development? As far as I know setting your max resolution to 720p would result in 480p forced downscaling during BD playback.

Brandon

Since when? Is this a recent development? As far as I know setting your max resolution to 720p would result in 480p forced downscaling during BD playback.

Brandon
Why would it downscale? IF you tv accepts 720p, then I would think it would receive 720p. The PS3 only downscales if you tv doesn't accept the current output resolution. From 1080p->1080i->720p->480p in that order.
Unless it's a BD specific issue I don't know about, which is very possible.

My TV accepts 480p, 720p and 1080i, but it only displays in 720p. So my TV downscales the 1080i input.

Why would it downscale? IF you tv accepts 720p, then I would think it would receive 720p. The PS3 only downscales if you tv doesn't accept the current output resolution. From 1080p->1080i->720p->480p in that order.
Unless it's a BD specific issue I don't know about, which is very possible.

My TV accepts 480p, 720p and 1080i, but it only displays in 720p. So my TV downscales the 1080i input.

he wants you to disable the option that your TV support 1080i to see if the PS3 will output 720p for BD. Latest PS3 firmware will not output 720p only 1080i/p or 480i/p

he wants you to disable the option that your TV support 1080i to see if the PS3 will output 720p for BD. Latest PS3 firmware will not output 720p only 1080i/p or 480i/p
Ahh, I didn't know that. Thanks for the clarification.

Correct, it is BD specific. BDs will only output at 1080i/p for high definition and if your tv doesn't accept 1080i/p (or you don't select those resolutions as available outputs in the PS3 menu) then the PS3 will downscale to 480p.

So currently your tv--like mine and I'm sure many others--is receiving a 1080i signal and downscaling it to 720p. But if you want to try a test with a BD just disable 1080i output and notice what feed your tv then gets during BD playback.

So the rumor is that way back when the PS3 first launched it would output BD at 720p before the first firmware update. A couple japanese owners claimed this to be true after the firmware was then updated to allegedly disable 720p BD playback.

I got a U.S. PS3 at launch and played Talledega Nights the first night before updating the firmware, but because I didn't realize this was an issue I never checked what feed my TV was getting.

Brandon

I searched for this answer in all the threads, but could not find so here it is:
Using HDMI 5.1 multichannel receiver, what is best way to listen to the Fox DTS titles? Should HDMI be set to PCM out or Bitstream. When I change to bitstream always get a message pop up that this will limit my audio capabilities.

I searched for this answer in all the threads, but could not find so here it is:
Using HDMI 5.1 multichannel receiver, what is best way to listen to the Fox DTS titles? Should HDMI be set to PCM out or Bitstream. When I change to bitstream always get a message pop up that this will limit my audio capabilities.Set to PCM. In either case you're going to hear DTS, at least until you get either a player with DTS-HD MA support or a receiver with DTS-HD MA support. If you decode in the player you'll get secondary audio; if you decode in the receiver (bitstream) you won't.

Set to PCM. In either case you're going to hear DTS, at least until you get either a player with DTS-HD MA support or a receiver with DTS-HD MA support. If you decode in the player you'll get secondary audio; if you decode in the receiver (bitstream) you won't.

On this subject. I don't have an HDMI receiver (I send it via optical), and when I set the PS3 to PCM it sounds like crap compared to bitstream on my Arcam. The dialogue is no longer clear and seems to be echoing more throughout the 7 speakers.

Is this because it is not being sent via HDMI? or do I prefer my Arcam that much more when it is decoding?

On this subject. I don't have an HDMI receiver (I send it via optical), and when I set the PS3 to PCM it sounds like crap compared to bitstream on my Arcam. The dialogue is no longer clear and seems to be echoing more throughout the 7 speakers.

Is this because it is not being sent via HDMI? or do I prefer my Arcam that much more when it is decoding?

Your receiver is processing a stereo signal into 7 channels. You need HDMI for the multichannel PCM to work.

Your receiver is processing a stereo signal into 7 channels. You need HDMI for the multichannel PCM to work.

Thats what I thought. Now if Arcam would only make new receivers that would process sound via HDMI.............

Someone please help me out. I just read the past couple pages, and i still don't quite understand the issue.

I have the 40" BRAVIA™ LCD Flat Panel HDTVKDL-40S2010 from Sony.

Display Resolution: 1366 x 768

Screen Size: 40"2

Screen or Display Technology: S-PVA LCD display panel


Am i going to run into any problems if i purchase a PS3 for blu-ray playback? Is it going to downscale to 480p?

Correct, it is BD specific. BDs will only output at 1080i/p for high definition and if your tv doesn't accept 1080i/p (or you don't select those resolutions as available outputs in the PS3 menu) then the PS3 will downscale to 480p.

So currently your tv--like mine and I'm sure many others--is receiving a 1080i signal and downscaling it to 720p. But if you want to try a test with a BD just disable 1080i output and notice what feed your tv then gets during BD playback.

So the rumor is that way back when the PS3 first launched it would output BD at 720p before the first firmware update. A couple japanese owners claimed this to be true after the firmware was then updated to allegedly disable 720p BD playback.

I got a U.S. PS3 at launch and played Talledega Nights the first night before updating the firmware, but because I didn't realize this was an issue I never checked what feed my TV was getting.

Brandon

Also if you have a 1080i BD movie like the HDNet Shuttle Discovery disc I have, If you don't have 1080i checked it will only output it at 480p. It will only output in th eformat on the disc which in this case is 1080i or downscale to 480P. I still don't understand why it won't ouput at 1080P or 720P considering boxes that cost under $100 can scale to those resolutions. You woul thing a device as advanced as the PS3 would be able to scale to any resolution you want.
Anyway it doesn't matter for me since I run everything through a VP50 which can output any resolution I need.

Someone please help me out. I just read the past couple pages, and i still don't quite understand the issue.

I have the 40" BRAVIA™ LCD Flat Panel HDTVKDL-40S2010 from Sony.

Display Resolution: 1366 x 768

Screen Size: 40"2

Screen or Display Technology: S-PVA LCD display panel


Am i going to run into any problems if i purchase a PS3 for blu-ray playback? Is it going to downscale to 480p?As long as your TV can accept 1080 input you'll be fine, just make sure you include 1080i as one of the acceptable output resolutions on your PS3.

As long as your TV can accept 1080 input you'll be fine, just make sure you include 1080i as one of the acceptable output resolutions on your PS3.

In my manual, it says "Note that this TV displays all format types (480i, 480p, 720p and 1080i) of picture in its native resolution of 1366 dots x 768 lines."

I should be good, right?

Sorry, i'm fairly a noob when it comes to HDTV.

In my manual, it says "Note that this TV displays all format types (480i, 480p, 720p and 1080i) of picture in its native resolution of 1366 dots x 768 lines."

I should be good, right?

Sorry, i'm fairly a noob when it comes to HDTV.

yep you are good

Awesome. Thanks :)

Blu-ray, here i come!

Jaewon, you'll be fine. All the manual is saying is that when it accepts the signal it will display it in what amounts to 720p. But that doesn't mean it won't accept other signal types (1080i, etc). It accepts the other signals and then scales them to fit your particular panel...which in this case is 1366x768.

Brandon

Great.

Can you then confirm or deny the rumor that PS3's with factory firmware 1.0 can output Blu Ray discs at 720p resolution? I'm not familiar with your setup, but if you have an hdtv could you test this out for me?

Brandon
Sorry,

My HDTV only accepts 480i, 480p, and 1080i (via component).

Rick R

Ahh, well no problem in that case.

This is to everyone that has watched a blu-ray movie on a ps3, I have watched talladega nights and a couple other movies on my sony kdsr60xbr2 and these movies look good but still doesn't look quite as good as my ota signal on high deff, I watch these movies in 1080p, But just today I got a new blu-ray movie in from netflix and popped it in and wow it was the real deal superb image but it was not a major movie title it was biking destination, shows chicks on beaches and great landscaping it looks as if the waves crashing on the beach were in my living room, it really was the best image I have ever saw, but on regular movies it just doesn't have that punch

Taladega nights, sucks imho, watch MI III

It's probably better to set the PS3 to output 1080i for Blu Ray movies on a 720p display anyway. I know that with the 360 HD DVD add on, it's better to set it for 1080i for HD DVDs on a 720p display, because most of the time your TV will have a better scaler than the console.

This is to everyone that has watched a blu-ray movie on a ps3, I have watched talladega nights and a couple other movies on my sony kdsr60xbr2 and these movies look good but still doesn't look quite as good as my ota signal on high deff, I watch these movies in 1080p, But just today I got a new blu-ray movie in from netflix and popped it in and wow it was the real deal superb image but it was not a major movie title it was biking destination, shows chicks on beaches and great landscaping it looks as if the waves crashing on the beach were in my living room, it really was the best image I have ever saw, but on regular movies it just doesn't have that punch

Hello - I know exactly what you mean. What you're describing is a very real difference between HD-TV and a movie that is seen at 1080P. I'm not an expert at this topic but a movie is shot with film, where as HDTV is shot in digital. Bikini destinations sounds like HDTV put onto a Blu-Ray disc. Others can expand or clarify what I'm saying I'm sure.

Hello - I know exactly what you mean. What you're describing is a very real difference between HD-TV and a movie that is seen at 1080P. I'm not an expert at this topic but a movie is shot with film, where as HDTV is shot in digital. Bikini destinations sounds like HDTV put onto a Blu-Ray disc. Others can expand or clarify what I'm saying I'm sure.


I did watch MI-III and I thought it sucked. The problem with the PS3 is its grayscale or dark levels. Every scene where lets say people are in a house with sunlight. The areas with sunlight are great but the areas in the shade are too dark. I'm getting rather irrated as one of the main reasons I bought the PS3 was for movie watching. I notice this on both Blu-ray and standard DVD's. Just watched the Guardian on standard dvd and same things with nightshots..too much black.

I did watch MI-III and I thought it sucked. The problem with the PS3 is its grayscale or dark levels. Every scene where lets say people are in a house with sunlight. The areas with sunlight are great but the areas in the shade are too dark. I'm getting rather irrated as one of the main reasons I bought the PS3 was for movie watching. I notice this on both Blu-ray and standard DVD's. Just watched the Guardian on standard dvd and same things with nightshots..too much black.

Grayscale is not the same thing as "dark levels" (shadow detail). Grayscale is dependent upon proper calibration (6500k) light. Shadow detail (what you are complaining about) can be optimized by proper calibration of brightness and contrast (user controls) and gamma (user control on some sets). If you haven't used Avia or DVE to calibrate your user controls, suggest you do that. Some people also get in trouble if they have a "black enhancement" circuit active on their particular set. This "feature" can normally be turned off.

PS3's only limitation in this area is the fact that it doesn't pass blacker than black (BTB). This information should not make a significant difference in shadow detail, in fact I've read that it should not even be included if the film is properly transferred.

On this subject. I don't have an HDMI receiver (I send it via optical), and when I set the PS3 to PCM it sounds like crap compared to bitstream on my Arcam. The dialogue is no longer clear and seems to be echoing more throughout the 7 speakers.

Is this because it is not being sent via HDMI? or do I prefer my Arcam that much more when it is decoding?

Send it bitstream from the PS3. It will sound the same as bitstream from your Arcam. Neither is doing any processing. Your receiver won't know the difference.
With bitstream over optical digital you will get DD 5.1/DTS processing inside the receiver. With PCM you get DD pro logic.

However, a new receiver with HDMI capabilities will allow the benefits of the new sound codecs from Blu Ray. It will sound better than either the PS3 or your Arcam over optical digital.

Here's some lastest infor regarding the PS3 scaler. There is a hardware scaler built into the PS3, but it had been disabled due to software inconsitencies. Full article here.

http://www.beyond3d.com/articles/ps3scaler/

Here is a quote from a developer.

The short of it is that:

As of a late January update to the SDK, horizontal scaling is now an option for developers using this scaler, but not vertical (for what reason, who knows?).

Previously, if a developer wanted to support 1080i or 1080p scaling in a 720p game, they had to render to incur the costs of an additional 1080p buffer in memory, which may have been prohibitively expensive.

But now, Sony has unlocked horizontal hardware scaling along with new resolution modes - including 960*1080. This resolution has just a little more pixels than 720p, and thus only requires about the same memory footprint, and can be scaled to 1080i/p using the horizontal hardware scaling (note that the full vertical resolution is there).

Thus going forward, developers should be able to include support for 720p/1080i/1080p modes, but it remains their choice. Though the article speculates that Sony will likely mandate it soon. Previously released games could be patched if the developer so desires.

If you don't get all that, the article itself explains the issues in greater detail.

It's puzzling why they haven't also enabled vertical scaling yet, but then I guess it's puzzling why this wasn't supported in the first place..they basically had what might actually be a very expensive chip going idle (there's speculation the chip is Toshiba's Super Companion AV Chip for Cell, or a version of it).

random person - So there IS a hw scaler after all

Indeed. In fact, it might be Toshiba's Super Companion Chip to Cell, or a version of it, as I've edited in the original post. Apparently a guy from Sony dropped word on a mailing list that PS3 was one of 3 products currently using it.

Why they would have such a chip going idle* until now, one can only speculate. Presumably there were software issues, and may still be if vertical scaling is still off-limits. Or maybe it's related to their cost reduction strategy..exposing certain functionality might commit them to including certain things indefinitely, versus potentially cutting things out later. Who knows.


edit - *well, maybe not quite idle..it could be, and probably is, serving other purposes too.

Good news. Thanks eightninesuited( as I watch Champloo on my desktop...). Question is can the scaler chip be used to upscale SD's to HD resolutions and when that option will be availible. Perhaps in the "legendary" March update. But still very good news.

Not sure if it has been posted here.
The Perfect Vision rates the PS 3- Thumbs up for:
1.Exceptional detail from Blue-ray movies
2.Excellent color
3 Good resposivenenss
4 Superb sound
5. Least expensive Blue-ray player available

Thumbs down:
1. No DVD upconversion in current firmware
2. Can't change output and resolution without onscreen display
3. No automatic disc format detectin

I'm not sure what good a horizontal-only scaler is supposed to do. I won't tolerate any stretching of a movie or game. Perhaps there will be software to scale vertically working with the hardware scaler?

Not sure if it has been posted here.

2. Can't change output and resolution without onscreen display
3. No automatic disc format detectin

What does #3 mean? You have to go to some kind of menu and select a disk type every time you put something in the player? Like Game/DVD/Blu-Ray/etc?

and doesn't #2 happen on all players anyway?

What does #3 mean? You have to go to some kind of menu and select a disk type every time you put something in the player? Like Game/DVD/Blu-Ray/etc?

and doesn't #2 happen on all players anyway?
I was wondering about #3 too. I've never had to "tell" my PS3 what kind of disc is in it...

I think I am having the same issue.

I picked up a ps3 last night at Tar-ghay last night. I updated the firmware to 1.5, then played Underworld: Evolution. I don't know if the 1.5 update may have had anything to do with it because I never tried playing the movie with the original firmware (1.10)

I am outputting DD via optical to my receiver, and HDMI to my Sony KDL-60XBR2 at 1080p.

The picture is quite good, but I get the same, _VERY_ annoying dropout as BoSoxMole.

If I send PCM audio to my receiver, I have no dropouts, but the sound isn't as good.

Please report on your what you find out with Sony. I'm very interested.

Alright, I am having a problem with my PS3.

I was watching Gridiron Gang and the audio would sometimes cut out for about half a second. And it would continue doing it every minute or so.

I checked the discs for any scratches, none. I cleaned it just to be safe. Put it back in, did the same thing. It was still doing it. I turned the PS3 off for two minutes, started it up again and we have the same proble.

Soooo I thought it was my receiver. I change the settings from optical going to my receiver to HDMI to my TV. Yup, still there.

Okay, maybe it is the movie. I put in Ice Age 2, a different movie, a different company and it has DTS. It is still doing it, though not as often.

Anyone else having this problem?? I gave it a break tonight and will try it again tomorrow, but if it still happens Sony is going to get a call from me.

90 day warranty, right?

So, does this latest 1.5 firmware do anything for SD DVD or Blu-ray output?

So, does this latest 1.5 firmware do anything for SD DVD or Blu-ray output?
Nothing official, but there's a fix for PS2 games in the update that's not on Sony's list. So no one outside of Sony knows all the fixes in 1.5.

Here's some lastest infor regarding the PS3 scaler. There is a hardware scaler built into the PS3, but it had been disabled due to software inconsitencies. Full article here.

http://www.beyond3d.com/articles/ps3scaler/



Great news. I have been holding on buying a PS3 since my TV only supports 480 i/p and 1080i. So 720p games will not play in HD in my tv. I know my TV is not the latest and greatest (~3 years old) but I was not ready to buy a newer TV just to play PS3 games. This development gives some hope for us with older HDTV

All of a sudden I do not get a piture. I've tried resetting and using differnt cables thinking somehow it changed but still nothing. Emailed Sony and all they tell me is to hold the power button and it will reset itsef. Is there another solution or do I have to return?

Grayscale is not the same thing as "dark levels" (shadow detail). Grayscale is dependent upon proper calibration (6500k) light. Shadow detail (what you are complaining about) can be optimized by proper calibration of brightness and contrast (user controls) and gamma (user control on some sets). If you haven't used Avia or DVE to calibrate your user controls, suggest you do that. Some people also get in trouble if they have a "black enhancement" circuit active on their particular set. This "feature" can normally be turned off.

PS3's only limitation in this area is the fact that it doesn't pass blacker than black (BTB). This information should not make a significant difference in shadow detail, in fact I've read that it should not even be included if the film is properly transferred.

Stated multiple times that I have used DVE. Bottomline shadow detail is better with STB for Verizon Fios, Over the air HD and an old POS Samsung combo DVD player. The shadow details plain sucks with PS3. I have it hooked up to a Samsung HLS-5688W. If shadow levels were poor on the other units I'd say my TV has issues but as it is, it only has bad performance on the PS3. I have seen others complaining too.

Stated multiple times that I have used DVE. Bottomline shadow detail is better with STB for Verizon Fios, Over the air HD and an old POS Samsung combo DVD player. The shadow details plain sucks with PS3. I have it hooked up to a Samsung HLS-5688W. If shadow levels were poor on the other units I'd say my TV has issues but as it is, it only has bad performance on the PS3. I have seen others complaining too.

my set has been calibrated by an ISF certified tech....yet i notice pretty bad black crush on the ps3. black levels are perfect on hdtv broadcasts and my toshiba hd-dvd player. i feel something is definitly off with the ps3 black levels resulting in black crush and loss of detail. some movies are worse then others. hopefully firmware will soon correct this as it sounds like theres a few of us out there effected by this.

There is definitely an issue with black levels on the PS3. Look at the test pattern on any Blu-Ray disc (hit menu-7669-enter) and you will see a few of the black levels have been clipped. It's more noticeable on certain movies, for instance, I just watched "Click" last night and it showed black crush while "Rumor Has It", "XMen: Last Stand" and "Devil Wears Prada" all were perfectly enjoyable without black crush issues.

Is it possible that some movies have more BTB content than others, and it's those movies that have issues? I definitely think the PS3 limitation needs to be addressed via firmware, but they just released firmware 1.50 (up from 1.32) and no DVD playback issues were addressed. I'm crossing my fingers for a March 2.0 firmware release that will address these issues, but holding ones breath wouldn't be prudent.

There is definitely an issue with black levels on the PS3. Look at the test pattern on any Blu-Ray disc (hit menu-7669-enter) and you will see a few of the black levels have been clipped. It's more noticeable on certain movies, for instance, I just watched "Click" last night and it showed black crush while "Rumor Has It", "XMen: Last Stand" and "Devil Wears Prada" all were perfectly enjoyable without black crush issues.

Is it possible that some movies have more BTB content than others, and it's those movies that have issues? I definitely think the PS3 limitation needs to be addressed via firmware, but they just released firmware 1.50 (up from 1.32) and no DVD playback issues were addressed. I'm crossing my fingers for a March 2.0 firmware release that will address these issues, but holding ones breath wouldn't be prudent.

From checking DVE, it is above white and below black that is being clipped. If you are losing more than that, it seems something else is wrong. I have read reviews of BD movies that have crush issues themselves....so that could be factor as well.

I too notice a lack of shadow detail, though not extreme. Some titles are worse than others.

I believe crush is different than clipping. Or at least here is how I look at it. IF above white and below black are missing (look the same as the bars next to them) then that information is being clipped. If bars inside of the "normal" video range are blending together, then I call that crush. The latter will produce a much more severe loss of detail.

My display, for example, introduced black level problems until I disables the dynamic IRIS and therefore floating black levels. On HD broadcasts, this resulted in much greater shadow deatail. This could be happenng to others as well. Be sure to calibrate your PS3 input. You should only be losing WTW and BTB.

Of course, I really wish sony would fix this!

There is definitely an issue with black levels on the PS3. Look at the test pattern on any Blu-Ray disc (hit menu-7669-enter) and you will see a few of the black levels have been clipped.

I tried to use this method with Talladega Nights and Training Day and no test pattern menu showed up. I selected the menu, put in 7669 and the enter button showed up and I entered it. Nothin doin. Is it the discs or am I missing something?

Brandon

I tried to use this method with Talladega Nights and Training Day and no test pattern menu showed up. I selected the menu, put in 7669 and the enter button showed up and I entered it. Nothin doin. Is it the discs or am I missing something?

Brandon

Training Day is a Warner title, so it won't work because it's just on Sony titles. What I did was just enter the numbers without going to a menu.

I got to the test patterns using Talladega Nights. Like SirDrexl said, I think you need to be on the main menu of the disc

Thanks guys.

Brandon

Does anyone know if I can use the PS3 Component Video Out for video and HDMI Out for Audio at the same time? My TV is old and does not have any DVI/HDMI input. I need to know before buying an HDMI receiver.

TIA! :)

There is definitely an issue with black levels on the PS3. Look at the test pattern on any Blu-Ray disc (hit menu-7669-enter) and you will see a few of the black levels have been clipped. It's more noticeable on certain movies, for instance, I just watched "Click" last night and it showed black crush while "Rumor Has It", "XMen: Last Stand" and "Devil Wears Prada" all were perfectly enjoyable without black crush issues.

Is it possible that some movies have more BTB content than others, and it's those movies that have issues? I definitely think the PS3 limitation needs to be addressed via firmware, but they just released firmware 1.50 (up from 1.32) and no DVD playback issues were addressed. I'm crossing my fingers for a March 2.0 firmware release that will address these issues, but holding ones breath wouldn't be prudent.

Despite what others may say, I completely agree with you. There is something wrong with the black levels on the PS3. To avoid losing detail, I have to crank up the brightness on my display until the black and dark gray tones are all just muddy mid-gray. This does not happen with my SD DVD player, so something is different with the PS3. I too hope the March firmware update solves the problem. I love the resolution, but don't like the muddy dark tones at all.

Ira

Does anyone know if I can use the PS3 Component Video Out for video and HDMI Out for Audio at the same time? My TV is old and does not have any DVI/HDMI input. I need to know before buying an HDMI receiver.

TIA! :)

YES. This works.

Despite what others may say, I completely agree with you. There is something wrong with the black levels on the PS3. To avoid losing detail, I have to crank up the brightness on my display until the black and dark gray tones are all just muddy mid-gray. This does not happen with my SD DVD player, so something is different with the PS3. I too hope the March firmware update solves the problem. I love the resolution, but don't like the muddy dark tones at all.

Ira

I calibrated with Avia but the black level (brightness) was way to low for viewing. Avia said I should have it at 3 but I need to put it at 8 for things to look correct.

I don't have a finely tuned eye to say if everything is muddy in the dark grey region but Avia has worked on everything except the PS3.

Here's some lastest infor regarding the PS3 scaler. There is a hardware scaler built into the PS3, but it had been disabled due to software inconsitencies. Full article here.

http://www.beyond3d.com/articles/ps3scaler/

Here is a quote from a developer.

Eightnine, where did you get those quotes from?

(The third quote of yours is the one I'm interested in.)

Has anyone been able to download (ie a game, demo, etc) and watch a movie at the same time on the PS3? It seems once your downloading something, your locked into only downloading and that's it. Unless I'm missing something? Even with broadband, some of these games take a while to download and would be nice to be able to watch a BR movie or play a game while waiting.

Unless I'm missing something?

You're not missing anything; unfortunately that functionality isn't in place yet. By advice: download something you want while you're at work or overnight or somesuch.

You're not missing anything; unfortunately that functionality isn't in place yet. By advice: download something you want while you're at work or overnight or somesuch.

Thanks for the confirmation. Yep, that's what I've been doing....just letting it download and leave it alone while I do other things. I'm guessing this would be an easy feature to add via a future update.

I had not seen a FAQ attempted for this thread yet and I've just spent the last 2 hours making my eyes bleed reading the same questions over and over again.

It's permanent home is here. (http://hddiscs.wetpaint.com/page/Sony+PS3) .

It's not complete yet, but I wanted to get feedback to see if there were any huge, glaring errors. It's on an WYSIWYG wiki page, so correct or add anything that you think is incorrect.

Cheers,
Randy Stewart

General

Does the PS3 have the best video quality of Blu-Ray players?
Nothing is definitive, but most agree that it does.

How could that be possible? It is so inexpensive compared to other players.
While that is true, Sony is known to be subsidizing the PS3, while the other players are not subsidized. Sony wants to ensure the future of both Blu-Ray and PS3, so while this loses them money in the short term, theoretically, it will be a financial win in the long term.

For more info, Sound and Vision magazine has shoot out of the first batch of Blu-Ray players here (http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/hd-dvd-bluray/1927/shootout-3-blu-ray-disc-players.html) . I'll ruin the ending, PS3 wins.


Video Questions

I have a HD set, what should I set my PS3 resolution to?
1080.

But what if my tv will only display 720p?
Most HD sets can accept signals higher than they can display. In this case, your television will downconvert 1080p to 720p. If you select 720p, the PS3 will convert your lovely Blu-Ray movie to 480p.

Why does it do this?
Many guess this is an oversight that Sony will fix later. Until then, 1080.

Does the PS3 upconvert regular DVDs?
No.

Which looks better, video over HDMI or component cables?
Consensus seems to be HDMI

From this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9318281&&#post9318281)
"On my Samsung HLN437N the picture is noticeably better using a hdmi to dvi cable. The component video looks sort of soft and looks like its almost a lower resolution at 1080i, while the hdmi to dvi is nice and crisp looking."

What are the video formats that Blu-Ray supports?
MPEG-2 - enhanced for HD, also used for playback of DVDs and HDTV recordings.
MPEG-4 AVC - part of the MPEG-4 standard also known as H.264 (High Profile and Main Profile).
SMPTE VC-1 - standard based on Microsoft's Windows Media Video (WMV) technology.


Audio Questions

What are the audio formats that Blu-Ray supports?
Linear PCM (LPCM)
Dolby Digital (DD) -
Dolby Digital Plus (DD+)
Dolby TrueHD
DTS Digital Surround
DTS-HD


Which one is best?
Not touching that one, but I will say that in general, lossless compressed sound can sound better than lossy compressed sound. Personally, I'm betting that DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD sound better than regular Dolby Digital and regular DTS.


If I want DTS-HD or Dolby TrueHD surround sound, can I use the optical out?
No, only the HDMI cable can carry the various higher bandwidth audio signals.

Why?
We presume that it may have something to do with the fact that optical (or Toslink) output can't move bits as quickly.

From the forum-
Toslink: 125 Mbps
HDMI 1.0: 4.9Gbps
HDMI 1.3: 10.2 Gbps

HDMI

Are there different cable for the different versions of HDMI (1.1, 1.2, 1.3)?
No, despite advertising efforts, there are not specific cables for different versions of HDMI

Can I run video out of both the HDMI ports and the proprietary connector (to component, etc)?
Yes, but not simultaneously.

Can I use HDMI for video and Toslink for audio?
Yes, this does work.



Remote Control

The PS3 doesn't ship with a remote, can I use my universal remote?
Not unless it's got Bluetooth in it or it's the Sony remote for PS3. The PS3 doesn't have infra-red. You can also use the controller that came with the PS3

You're kidding. This is a Blu-Ray player, the pinnacle of technology, right?
Nope. Not kidding. Maybe Sony thinks that infra-red should go the way of the floppy disc?

Is there a remote you can buy?
You can buy the Bluetooth remote from Sony. It's only $24 from Amazon.

Ok, fine. With all those fancy inputs, somebody must have figured out a way around this, right?
Yep.

Um, ok, how?
Well, you didn't ask that before. From this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9450973&&#post9450973) and this site (http://www.remotecentral.com/articles/ps3-ir-remote2.htm)

Some smart folks have figured out how to set up a few cheap relays with the old PS2 remote and a USB converter that solves the problem. I don't know if anyone will ever make a more elegant approach, but this is great for now and both parts can be had for very cheap on EBay.

You'll need a A PSX/PS2 Controller to USB adapter and an original DVD remote control for the PS2 with external IR receiver

To assemble this contraption, plug the IR receiver into the PS2 controller end of the adapter cable, and then plug the USB end of the adapter into one of the PS3’s front mounted USB ports.

Sounds ugly
It is. Hope springs eternal for a prettier solution.

Firmware upgrades

What's the latest firmware upgrade?
1.5

What's in the latest firmware upgrade?
Not much from the movie watching perspective. Here's a list:

* A personal image/photo can now be used with a user ID
* Edy support added
* 'Operation Sound' added to sound settings
* 'Delete Backup Data' added to backup utilities
* WEP128, WPA-PSK (TKIP), WPA-PSK(AES) can now utilize AOSS
* Login password can be saved without setting the system to log in automatically
* Korean keyboard setting now available


What about the other firmware upgrades?
Here's a handy link to the Sony firmware site (http://www.us.playstation.com/ps3/network/updates/history.html) .

Misc
Standby mode
from this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9383092&&#post9383092)

Standby on the ps3 is much the same as many receivers, akin to full power down-fans off hd off -no audio or video out. So for the sake of your switch standby IS off. I wouldn't leave the ps3 on steady because of the power use.

How do I get the test pattern from Sony Blu-Ray discs?

Hit
1. menu
2. 7669
3. enter


Does this only work on Sony Blu-Ray discs?
Appears so.

help!

I just turned on my ps3 today and noticing that tv screen background changed to yellowish, does anyone know how i can change it back to black color?

The background color is semi-random, don't sweat it. We all get yellow sometimes. ;)

Actually I read the background color is keyed to the time of day.
Change the time & see if the colors change.

Stated multiple times that I have used DVE. Bottomline shadow detail is better with STB for Verizon Fios, Over the air HD and an old POS Samsung combo DVD player. The shadow details plain sucks with PS3. I have it hooked up to a Samsung HLS-5688W. If shadow levels were poor on the other units I'd say my TV has issues but as it is, it only has bad performance on the PS3. I have seen others complaining too.

Sorry, I'm not familiar with your set. Have you individually calibrated a specific input for the PS3? If you set doesn't allow for individual input calibrations; or if you are running all into a receiver which then uses only one input on the TV, that could cause problems.

Eightnine, where did you get those quotes from?

(The third quote of yours is the one I'm interested in.)

Same here. I read through the article and the comments and couldn't find the last quote.

Brandon

I had not seen a FAQ attempted for this thread yet and I've just spent the last 2 hours making my eyes bleed reading the same questions over and over again.

It's permanent home is here. (http://hddiscs.wetpaint.com/page/Sony+PS3) .

It's not complete yet, but I wanted to get feedback to see if there were any huge, glaring errors. It's on an WYSIWYG wiki page, so correct or add anything that you think is incorrect.

Cheers,
Randy Stewart

General

Does the PS3 have the best video quality of Blu-Ray players?
Nothing is definitive, but most agree that it does.

How could that be possible? It is so inexpensive compared to other players.
While that is true, Sony is known to be subsidizing the PS3, while the other players are not subsidized. Sony wants to ensure the future of both Blu-Ray and PS3, so while this loses them money in the short term, theoretically, it will be a financial win in the long term.

For more info, Sound and Vision magazine has shoot out of the first batch of Blu-Ray players here (http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/hd-dvd-bluray/1927/shootout-3-blu-ray-disc-players.html) . I'll ruin the ending, PS3 wins.


Video Questions

I have a HD set, what should I set my PS3 resolution to?
1080.

But what if my tv will only display 720p?
Most HD sets can accept signals higher than they can display. In this case, your television will downconvert 1080p to 720p. If you select 720p, the PS3 will convert your lovely Blu-Ray movie to 480p.

Why does it do this?
Many guess this is an oversight that Sony will fix later. Until then, 1080.

Does the PS3 upconvert regular DVDs?
No.

Which looks better, video over HDMI or component cables?
Consensus seems to be HDMI

From this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9318281&&#post9318281)
"On my Samsung HLN437N the picture is noticeably better using a hdmi to dvi cable. The component video looks sort of soft and looks like its almost a lower resolution at 1080i, while the hdmi to dvi is nice and crisp looking."

What are the video formats that Blu-Ray supports?
MPEG-2 - enhanced for HD, also used for playback of DVDs and HDTV recordings.
MPEG-4 AVC - part of the MPEG-4 standard also known as H.264 (High Profile and Main Profile).
SMPTE VC-1 - standard based on Microsoft's Windows Media Video (WMV) technology.


Audio Questions

What are the audio formats that Blu-Ray supports?
Linear PCM (LPCM)
Dolby Digital (DD) -
Dolby Digital Plus (DD+)
Dolby TrueHD
DTS Digital Surround
DTS-HD


Which one is best?
Not touching that one, but I will say that in general, lossless compressed sound can sound better than lossy compressed sound. Personally, I'm betting that DTS-HD and Dolby TrueHD sound better than regular Dolby Digital and regular DTS.


If I want DTS-HD or Dolby TrueHD surround sound, can I use the optical out?
No, only the HDMI cable can carry the various higher bandwidth audio signals.

Why?
We presume that it may have something to do with the fact that optical (or Toslink) output can't move bits as quickly.

From the forum-
Toslink: 125 Mbps
HDMI 1.0: 4.9Gbps
HDMI 1.3: 10.2 Gbps

HDMI

Are there different cable for the different versions of HDMI (1.1, 1.2, 1.3)?
No, despite advertising efforts, there are not specific cables for different versions of HDMI

Can I run video out of both the HDMI ports and the proprietary connector (to component, etc)?
Yes, but not simultaneously.

Can I use HDMI for video and Toslink for audio?
Yes, this does work.



Remote Control

The PS3 doesn't ship with a remote, can I use my universal remote?
Not unless it's got Bluetooth in it or it's the Sony remote for PS3. The PS3 doesn't have infra-red. You can also use the controller that came with the PS3

You're kidding. This is a Blu-Ray player, the pinnacle of technology, right?
Nope. Not kidding. Maybe Sony thinks that infra-red should go the way of the floppy disc?

Is there a remote you can buy?
You can buy the Bluetooth remote from Sony. It's only $24 from Amazon.

Ok, fine. With all those fancy inputs, somebody must have figured out a way around this, right?
Yep.

Um, ok, how?
Well, you didn't ask that before. From this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9450973&&#post9450973) and this site (http://www.remotecentral.com/articles/ps3-ir-remote2.htm)

Some smart folks have figured out how to set up a few cheap relays with the old PS2 remote and a USB converter that solves the problem. I don't know if anyone will ever make a more elegant approach, but this is great for now and both parts can be had for very cheap on EBay.

You'll need a A PSX/PS2 Controller to USB adapter and an original DVD remote control for the PS2 with external IR receiver

To assemble this contraption, plug the IR receiver into the PS2 controller end of the adapter cable, and then plug the USB end of the adapter into one of the PS3’s front mounted USB ports.

Sounds ugly
It is. Hope springs eternal for a prettier solution.

Firmware upgrades

What's the latest firmware upgrade?
1.5

What's in the latest firmware upgrade?
Not much from the movie watching perspective. Here's a list:

* A personal image/photo can now be used with a user ID
* Edy support added
* 'Operation Sound' added to sound settings
* 'Delete Backup Data' added to backup utilities
* WEP128, WPA-PSK (TKIP), WPA-PSK(AES) can now utilize AOSS
* Login password can be saved without setting the system to log in automatically
* Korean keyboard setting now available


What about the other firmware upgrades?
Here's a handy link to the Sony firmware site (http://www.us.playstation.com/ps3/network/updates/history.html) .

Misc
Standby mode
from this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9383092&&#post9383092)

Standby on the ps3 is much the same as many receivers, akin to full power down-fans off hd off -no audio or video out. So for the sake of your switch standby IS off. I wouldn't leave the ps3 on steady because of the power use.

How do I get the test pattern from Sony Blu-Ray discs?

Hit
1. menu
2. 7669
3. enter


Does this only work on Sony Blu-Ray discs?
Appears so.

Looks great! From what I've heard, the menu function only works with Sony BD's, perhaps someone can confirm it.
Also, this link might be of good use:http://www.us.playstation.com/ps3/network/updates/pc_update.html#update_PC
This'll explain how to update the firmware without a net connection.

After much fiddling with cables and connections, I think I may have found a solution for my particular audio dropout problem.

My very old Pioneer VSX-07TX has an additional processing option for surround decoding called "Home THX Cinema" mode, which does some additional EQ on the signal.

If I turn this mode off, my dropouts seem to go away. I haven't watched a full movie yet, so I don't know if the problem is completely gone, but it sounds pretty good so far. My guess is that the DSP in my receiver isn't up to the task of decoding and re-processing the 50% higher bandwidth Dolby Digital signal that the PS3 is able to output from Blu-Ray.

If this ends up being my solution, I'll be very happy that I won't have to upgrade my receiver yet. :)

Other observations:
The 480Kbit/S DD from DVDs work fine in either mode.

I think I am having the same issue.

I picked up a ps3 last night at Tar-ghay last night. I updated the firmware to 1.5, then played Underworld: Evolution. I don't know if the 1.5 update may have had anything to do with it because I never tried playing the movie with the original firmware (1.10)

I am outputting DD via optical to my receiver, and HDMI to my Sony KDL-60XBR2 at 1080p.

The picture is quite good, but I get the same, _VERY_ annoying dropout as BoSoxMole.

If I send PCM audio to my receiver, I have no dropouts, but the sound isn't as good.

Please report on your what you find out with Sony. I'm very interested.

Question, I have the Pioneer Elite 82 reciever. What audio settings should I use for HDMI?

Bitstream, or Linear PCM?

Automatic, or Manual, and check all the boxes?

And I have Mits DLP, what video settings for HDMI.

Auto or Y,Rb,B or RGB?

Thanks

If your receiver can process HDMI audio (not just passthrough) you should set to Linear PCM. Would suggest leaving video at Auto.

I had not seen a FAQ attempted for this thread yet and I've just spent the last 2 hours making my eyes bleed reading the same questions over and over again.



Pretty good stuff. I did the same thing for the XBR1 SXRD owner's thread for the same experience. Maybe do a separate post here or in the PS forum on AVS and link it in your isg.

One thing I would suggest is to change your capitalization of Blu-Ray to Blu-ray, but thats' really a minor nitpick. Also, the 6' HDMI cable I got from Frys did have in the fine print that it was spec'ed to HDMI 1.2 standard. Whether that means it's different from any other HDMI cable is an entirely different matter, of course. :)

help!

I just turned on my ps3 today and noticing that tv screen background changed to yellowish, does anyone know how i can change it back to black color?


This from the PS forum:

the background color works just like the PSP. The color depends on the month.
If you want to see the different colors, goto 'date and time' choose 'set manually' and
scroll through the months, you will see what the color change will be for each month. (do this during the daytime otherwise the background is black during night hours.

Jan: yellow
Feb: light green
Mar: pinkish
Apr: dark green
May: light purple
June: Torquoise
Jul: Blue
Aug: dark purple
sept: orange
oct: sepia/brown
nov: red
dec: gray/silver

If your receiver can process HDMI audio (not just passthrough) you should set to Linear PCM. Would suggest leaving video at Auto.


Thanks for that Info. So for my last question, when going to the audio HDMI settings of the PS3. Theres a choice of "Automatic" and "Manual". What Is the best option here. I'm sure my reciever can decode all the settings In manual, but I'm not sure on what to select. Thanks.

[QUOTE=rstewar]I had not seen a FAQ attempted for this thread yet and I've just spent the last 2 hours making my eyes bleed reading the same questions over and over again...[\quote]



Thanks for putting this together it's much needed. If you or someone would not mind attempting to answer the question that seems to have been asked and answered here at least 100 times: "How should I set my audio output settings, PCM or Bitstream?"
This I think would be really helpful in hopefully reducing the amount of redundancies.

Thanks, again. Great work.

Does anyone know if I can use the PS3 Component Video Out for video and HDMI Out for Audio at the same time? My TV is old and does not have any DVI/HDMI input. I need to know before buying an HDMI receiver.

TIA! :)

No problemo, I have an older TV with no HDMI and a Denon 3806. I can enjoy LPCM via HDMI audio and 1080i video via component.

Thanks for that Info. So for my last question, when going to the audio HDMI settings of the PS3. Theres a choice of "Automatic" and "Manual". What Is the best option here. I'm sure my reciever can decode all the settings In manual, but I'm not sure on what to select. Thanks.

Are you talking about the HDMI setup? When doing the hdmi setup, manual will let you select what resolutions you want to output to your receiver/tv. If you select auto it will do an automatic detection right then and there and select what resolutions your receiver will accept. I would suggest selecting "auto" unless you want to force feed your receiver a specific resolution.

Just keep in mind if you force your receiver 1080i or p and a game is only output in 720p, the ps3 will downconvert the resolution to 480. Conversely, if you force feed the receiver 720p, during blu ray playback you will only get a feed downconverted to 480. If your receiver accepts 1080i/p and 720p, then "auto" will ensure you don't have these issues. However you can manually select both resolutions as well if you're sure what your receiver will accept. So manual doesn't really hurt you if you already know what your receiver is capable of.

Brandon

Sorry, I'm not familiar with your set. Have you individually calibrated a specific input for the PS3? If you set doesn't allow for individual input calibrations; or if you are running all into a receiver which then uses only one input on the TV, that could cause problems.


I did calibrate each input but again its the PS3. I've played around with the gamma and iris settings to improve but with limited success. The fact that all other sources have better gray levels leads me to believe it is a PS3 plus the fact that many others have the same complaint.

Perfect movie to see the problem on is MI-III the blu-ray disk was very dark even in the opening scenes when they are in the house for the party. Whenever people are in shadows you cannot see much detail. Where I really notice it is when you see a persons face that is partially in a shadow and partially not. The dark portion is too dark to see any detail and to get tha detail you have to make the lighted side look like the sun.

I have a Samsung HLS5688W which is a pretty decent setup. FYI I am using HDMI and YCC settings.

When I use the Onkyo 674 Receiver the 1080p from my PS3 has really bad video flickering on my 1080p LCD but the 1080p from my HD-XA2 HD-DVD player has no problems even though it's also going thru the Onkyo. 1080i works fine with the PS3.

When I connect the PS3 directly to my LCD (Onkyo out of the equation), the 1080p works without the video flickering?

How can the HD-DVD have flawless 1080p going thru the Onkyo but not the PS3?

This from the PS forum:

the background color works just like the PSP. The color depends on the month.
If you want to see the different colors, goto 'date and time' choose 'set manually' and
scroll through the months, you will see what the color change will be for each month. (do this during the daytime otherwise the background is black during night hours.

Jan: yellow
Feb: light green
Mar: pinkish
Apr: dark green
May: light purple
June: Torquoise
Jul: Blue
Aug: dark purple
sept: orange
oct: sepia/brown
nov: red
dec: gray/silver
thanks guys.

I still am not clear how to set the setting in the PS3 for VIDEO OUTPUT FORMAT as follows:



BD / DVD Video Output Format (HDMI)
Select the video output format to use when outputting video content from BD / DVD using an HDMI cable. Adjust the settings as necessary for the TV in use.

Automatic Set to automatically select the best video output format for the TV in use.
RGB Output in RGB
Y Pb / Cb Pr / Cr Output in Y Pb / Cb Pr / Cr





The choises are automatic, RGB or Y Pb / Cb Pr / Cr Output in Y Pb / Cb Pr / Cr .


I am using HDMI to HDMI connection. Could some one clarify these different setting and which is the correct one for HDMI to HDMI. Thanks.



Tony

When I use the Onkyo 674 Receiver the 1080p from my PS3 has really bad video flickering on my 1080p LCD but the 1080p from my HD-XA2 HD-DVD player has no problems even though it's also going thru the Onkyo. 1080i works fine with the PS3.

When I connect the PS3 directly to my LCD (Onkyo out of the equation), the 1080p works without the video flickering?

How can the HD-DVD have flawless 1080p going thru the Onkyo but not the PS3?


It is a handshaking issue with the ps3 and the onkyo-- many others with onkyo receivers and other receivers are having the same problem... I am as well.. the problm lies in the ps3.. not your reciever... and as of right now there is no way to resolve it.. hopefully future firmware updates will fix it within the ps3..
hope this helps

I'm getting my XBR2 tomorrow. My PS3 will have to wait a few months, barring a price drop. I've read much of the thread. I understand that standard DVD's aren't upscaled, and there's no guarantee that they ever will be on the PS3.

But if I have the latest Sony TV, won't the upscaling done from the set be essentially the same thing? I'm guessing that 480i from the PS3 via HDMI could be an improvement over my older Samsung 841HD doing 1080i over component, just because of the digital connection. (I got the Samsung as a hand-me-down, did the HD component hack, but don't have the HDTV to test it out yet.)

Is there any reason to bother with a different upscaling DVD player? I don't want to cut in to my PS3 fund, but I would like SD DVD's to look good even after I get one.

So is the SD-DVD performance of the PS3 coupled with a Sony XBR2 LCD as good as any upconverting player available now?

It is a handshaking issue with the ps3 and the onkyo-- many others with onkyo receivers and other receivers are having the same problem... I am as well.. the problm lies in the ps3.. not your reciever... and as of right now there is no way to resolve it.. hopefully future firmware updates will fix it within the ps3..
hope this helps

One thing you might try when the flickering starts is to unplug the hdmi cable, wait a couple of seconds and plug back in again. I read this fix on another site. Seems to be hdcp handshake issue related to timing, and putting a receiver in there could certainly change the timing.

I was having a related issue with Optoma HD81. When BD starts, and you lose sync for a second or so, I would wind up with a signal, but just a black screen (no blinking). I could get around this when the ps3 was cold, but once warmed up had no success. I sent it back to Sony, and the next unit does the same thing. Kind of by accident I found that if I switch HDMI input (with HD81 remote, not by physically disconnecting) back and forth, that the PS3 would then resync and I can watch my movie. In my case, it is more likely the projector than the PS3, and while it is a PITA, at least I can get it to work, so give it a try, you have nothing to lose.

Anyone know the "rules" for playing a video on the ps3?
I put a couple of mpeg files (with mpg file extension) on a usb drive and connected it to the ps3, but the ps3 doesn't recognize the files. Tried an avi file as well.

I tried using something called ps3 video9, which is supposed to convert files to ps3 format (whatever that is), but I can't get it to write anything out, or if it does, I can't find the file.

Thanks

Anyone know the "rules" for playing a video on the ps3?
I put a couple of mpeg files (with mpg file extension) on a usb drive and connected it to the ps3, but the ps3 doesn't recognize the files. Tried an avi file as well.

I tried using something called ps3 video9, which is supposed to convert files to ps3 format (whatever that is), but I can't get it to write anything out, or if it does, I can't find the file.

Thanks
http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/video/filetypes.html

Playable formats:
* Memory Stick Video Format
* MPEG-4 SP (AAC LC)
* H.264/MPEG-4 AVC Main Profile (AAC LC)
* MPEG-1 (MPEG Audio Layer 2)
* MPEG-2 PS (MPEG2 Audio Layer 2, AAC LC, AC3(Dolby Digital), LPCM)
* MPEG-2 TS (MPEG2 Audio Layer 2)

Looks like you can't play mpeg video files unless it's mpeg4.
I tried wmv files and those didn't work. I'll try to convert a divx file to mpeg4 and see if I can get it play.

It is a handshaking issue with the ps3 and the onkyo-- many others with onkyo receivers and other receivers are having the same problem... I am as well.. the problm lies in the ps3.. not your reciever... and as of right now there is no way to resolve it.. hopefully future firmware updates will fix it within the ps3..
hope this helps

Jacob and stephen, thank you very much for your feedback.

Stupid HDMI and HDCP crapola.

I was thinking it was either the PS3 or Onkyo and I was hoping that the latest 1.5 firmware would've fixed this problem but that's what I get for thinking and hoping.

Question, anybody know if there's any problems with PS3 playing/scratchng disks while vertical?


I had some pausing in a BR movie, but I think it may have been because my PS3 is 2" above my receiver so its breathing in hot air....

I'm getting my XBR2 tomorrow. My PS3 will have to wait a few months, barring a price drop. I've read much of the thread. I understand that standard DVD's aren't upscaled, and there's no guarantee that they ever will be on the PS3.

But if I have the latest Sony TV, won't the upscaling done from the set be essentially the same thing? I'm guessing that 480i from the PS3 via HDMI could be an improvement over my older Samsung 841HD doing 1080i over component, just because of the digital connection. (I got the Samsung as a hand-me-down, did the HD component hack, but don't have the HDTV to test it out yet.)

Is there any reason to bother with a different upscaling DVD player? I don't want to cut in to my PS3 fund, but I would like SD DVD's to look good even after I get one.

So is the SD-DVD performance of the PS3 coupled with a Sony XBR2 LCD as good as any upconverting player available now?

I imagine that if you have one of the better 1080p sets, the scaler in the set is probably as good or better than what you'll find in an upscaling DVD player. Either the DVD player does the upscaling or your TV does it. The difference will be in the algorithms employed -- is the scaler performing pixel interpolation or is it simply doing pixel doubling? I imagine any high-end 1080p set has quite a suite of technology, including tackling upscaling issues.

I have a Samsung 71" DLP 1080p set, and fed it an S-Video signal from my older Sony DVD player. The image was FANTASTIC -- no jaggies whatsoever. I credit the Sammy's scaler. I now use my PS3 exclusively for DVD playback -- I'm having some black level issues, as the dynamic range appears compressed because the smoothness at the darker end of the brightness range feels harsh -- and the details in the picture are wonderful when relying on the TV's scaler. There's no need for the PS3 to upscale the image -- it's really a non-issue, and those who complain about its lack of upscaling don't understand upscaling in general.

Question, anybody know if there's any problems with PS3 playing/scratchng disks while vertical?


I had some pausing in a BR movie, but I think it may have been because my PS3 is 2" above my receiver so its breathing in hot air....

Did you look at the disc to see if there was a scratch? That would be my first course of action. Try another disc and check it before and after. It would be very easy to determine whether the PS3 is scratching your discs.

There's no need for the PS3 to upscale the image -- it's really a non-issue, and those who complain about its lack of upscaling don't understand upscaling in general.

My only issue with the lack of upscaling is how the PS3 handles 4:3 SD material - it's stretched to fill the 16x9 screen, so I have to manually set my projector to display it in 4:3 with the proper proportions and then set it back when going back to 16x9 (this also affects many extras on BDs, not just DVDs). It's inconvenient if nothing else. I believe if it did upscaling it would handle 4:3 material properly (although non-anamorphic widescreen material would still have to be manually zoomed).

Does anyone know if the CI upgrade to the Denon AVR-4806 will also allow the playback of the PS3 lossless audio codecs?

I know it will allow the receiver to pass the 1080p video signal, but what about audio? If the receiver is receiving either the DD or DTS lossless streams from the PS3, what does it read on the display?

http://manuals.playstation.net/document/en/ps3/current/video/filetypes.html

Playable formats:
* Memory Stick Video Format
* MPEG-4 SP (AAC LC)
* H.264/MPEG-4 AVC Main Profile (AAC LC)
* MPEG-1 (MPEG Audio Layer 2)
* MPEG-2 PS (MPEG2 Audio Layer 2, AAC LC, AC3(Dolby Digital), LPCM)
* MPEG-2 TS (MPEG2 Audio Layer 2)

Looks like you can't play mpeg video files unless it's mpeg4.
I tried wmv files and those didn't work. I'll try to convert a divx file to mpeg4 and see if I can get it play.I believe it also needs to be in a directory called "VIDEO".

I had some pausing in a BR movie, but I think it may have been because my PS3 is 2" above my receiver so its breathing in hot air....

Reports of multi-second pauses are getting more common when playing Blu-Ray movies in the PS3, it seems. Some people think the 1.50 firmware made things much worse. I just played Corpse Bride last night fresh out of the plastic wrapper (PS3 horizontal) and it paused twice for about 10 seconds twice during the movie. Though it may be heat related, it doesn't seem that likely from what I've read. There are several threads on other boards about the pauses, for example:

http://boardsus.playstation.com/playstation/board/message?board.id=ps3&thread.id=1117739

If I want DTS-HD or Dolby TrueHD surround sound, can I use the optical out?
No, only the HDMI cable can carry the various higher bandwidth audio signals.

Why?
We presume that it may have something to do with the fact that optical (or Toslink) output can't move bits as quickly.

From the forum-
Toslink: 125 Mbps
HDMI 1.0: 4.9Gbps
HDMI 1.3: 10.2 Gbps

Well, 125 Mbps would be plenty of bandwidth for the audio. After all, the maximum bitrate that can be sent from a BD is less than half that (54 Mbps), and that includes compressed video, multiple audio streams, control bits, etc. Many BDs are including the audio uncompressed as PCM; HDMI needs the bandwidth to send the video uncompressed to the display.

The interface is the limiting factor here, as there is no Toslink interface designed to accomodate multichannel PCM. Another reason is that Toslink lacks HDCP (copy protection).

I believe it also needs to be in a directory called "VIDEO".

It is easier if you use a folder called video, but if you don't (for SD cards at least), you can still select the plugged in card, hit triangle, and choose Display All to browse the directory structure on the card and select a video. It is confusing, but I assume Sony did this to decrease the time it takes to scan the card for movies to show in the list. Otherwise, on a huge card with thousands of files, it would have to scan the entire directory structure on the card for movies, possibly delaying the production of the video list further.

There's no need for the PS3 to upscale the image -- it's really a non-issue, and those who complain about its lack of upscaling don't understand upscaling in general.

Thanks, I was kinda feeling that way after reading most of this thread. Stinks about the 4:3 stuff though. Not a big deal really, since there will be a dedicated aspect button on the XBR remote, I assume. Thanks.

I'm getting my XBR2 tomorrow. My PS3 will have to wait a few months, barring a price drop. I've read much of the thread. I understand that standard DVD's aren't upscaled, and there's no guarantee that they ever will be on the PS3.

But if I have the latest Sony TV, won't the upscaling done from the set be essentially the same thing? I'm guessing that 480i from the PS3 via HDMI could be an improvement over my older Samsung 841HD doing 1080i over component, just because of the digital connection. (I got the Samsung as a hand-me-down, did the HD component hack, but don't have the HDTV to test it out yet.)

Is there any reason to bother with a different upscaling DVD player? I don't want to cut in to my PS3 fund, but I would like SD DVD's to look good even after I get one.

So is the SD-DVD performance of the PS3 coupled with a Sony XBR2 LCD as good as any upconverting player available now?

With my Sony SXRD XBR1, I'm not pleased with the PS3 feeding 480i/480p via HDMI because the Sony "over filters" that resolution via HDMI. This was illustrated to me by the tech during my ISF. My SXRD does much better with 480i/480p via component.

Because I'm using HDMI for my HD Tivo and PS3, I am using my Denon 2910 (it is an upconverting DVD player) at 480i via component. I chose 480i over 480p because it allows the Sony to use DRC functions (i.e., more control over the picture). I believe the picture from the Denon is now as good as when I was sending it 1080i via HDMI.

my son, 13, has an old fashioned tv available to him. is there anyway to hook up the ps3 directly to that tv just like he used to hook up his ps2?

my son, 13, has an old fashioned tv available to him. is there anyway to hook up the ps3 directly to that tv just like he used to hook up his ps2?
The supplied cables have composite connections that should fit his TV. In fact, he should be able to use the cables that he's using with his PS2 on his PS3.

The supplied cables have composite connections that should fit his TV. In fact, he should be able to use the cables that he's using with his PS2 on his PS3.

hey,

thanks for the quick answer. i was so worried that i left the unit in the box until i got everything ready to hook it up. i will use the ps3 for movies in my home theater. he wants to use it most of the other time for gaming. it will get dual use. we'll get our moneys worth.

thanks!!

Best receiver for PS3 HD-Audio.

I am thinking of getting a PS3 soon. Since PS3 does not have analog 6 channel outputs for high resolution audio, I may need to get a receiver with HDMI. I have a Denon 2803 right now. Great receiver but no HDMI. What is the best receiver I can get for below $700 that can do this? I have seen Onkyo TX-SR674 for less than $500. I saw Onkyo TX-SR804 for $699 at Circuit City. The both support HDMI 1.1 and 5.1 channel through HDMI LPCM (only upto 24-bit 96kHz). I have only a 5.1 channel speaker system right now. I don't see myself upgrading that since I don't have space for the other speakers. Is 96kHz the limit or is 192kHz also supported by PS3? Also, should I wait for HDMI 1.2 or is 1.1 fine. I don't know how much money I can get for my Denon 2803. It is in great shape otherwise.

Also, I cannot seem to find the 20GB PS3 anywhere. Any ideas when it will become available. All local stores have the 60GB in stock and they said they haven't seen the 20GB since Christmas time. I don't see a need to spend an extra $100 for the extra features. I don't need wireless since my ethernet router is behind my entertainment center. Also, I plan on upgrading the HDD anyway. Also, the card slots are not important for me.

I have owned two Denon receivers. AVR 2700 and AVR 2803. I liked both of them. I was thinking of getting the AVR 2307CI or 2807. I have heard mixed reviews about them. How are the Onkyo 674 and 804 compared to them. Is the 804 an older model? $699 seems like a great price for it at Circuit City.

My only issue with the lack of upscaling is how the PS3 handles 4:3 SD material - it's stretched to fill the 16x9 screen, so I have to manually set my projector to display it in 4:3 with the proper proportions and then set it back when going back to 16x9 (this also affects many extras on BDs, not just DVDs). It's inconvenient if nothing else. I believe if it did upscaling it would handle 4:3 material properly (although non-anamorphic widescreen material would still have to be manually zoomed).

Upscaling has nothing to do with aspect ratio... a 4:3 aspect ratio source or 16:9 aspect ratio source would retain their respective aspect ratios when upscaled by either the DVD player or television. As far as the stretching is concerned, my PS3 is set to letterobx in the DVD display preferences (there is also a 4:3 option) and it sends 4:3 source material to my TV just fine. It's on the TV where I need to select an appropriate stretch/zoom mode.

The PS3 does not stretch 4:3 source material, at least that's what I'm seeing.

Best receiver for PS3 HD-Audio.

I am thinking of getting a PS3 soon. Since PS3 does not have analog 6 channel outputs for high resolution audio, I may need to get a receiver with HDMI. I have a Denon 2803 right now. Great receiver but no HDMI. What is the best receiver I can get for below $700 that can do this? I have seen Onkyo TX-SR674 for less than $500. I saw Onkyo TX-SR804 for $699 at Circuit City. The both support HDMI 1.1 and 5.1 channel through HDMI LPCM (only upto 24-bit 96kHz). I have only a 5.1 channel speaker system right now. I don't see myself upgrading that since I don't have space for the other speakers. Is 96kHz the limit or is 192kHz also supported by PS3? Also, should I wait for HDMI 1.2 or is 1.1 fine. I don't know how much money I can get for my Denon 2803. It is in great shape otherwise.

Also, I cannot seem to find the 20GB PS3 anywhere. Any ideas when it will become available. All local stores have the 60GB in stock and they said they haven't seen the 20GB since Christmas time. I don't see a need to spend an extra $100 for the extra features. I don't need wireless since my ethernet router is behind my entertainment center. Also, I plan on upgrading the HDD anyway. Also, the card slots are not important for me.

I have owned two Denon receivers. AVR 2700 and AVR 2803. I liked both of them. I was thinking of getting the AVR 2307CI or 2807. I have heard mixed reviews about them. How are the Onkyo 674 and 804 compared to them. Is the 804 an older model? $699 seems like a great price for it at Circuit City.

If you want to make sure you're getting a "future-proof" AVR that will do all of the required tasks on an HDMI audio source, read this: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9617745#post9617745

I have owned the Denon AVR 2307CI for about a month now and am very pleased with it. It does everything you would need for the best possible audio from an HD-DVD/BD player via HDMI, including proper LFE bass mgmt, and the ability to apply PLIIx to the LPCM feed coming in via HDMI in order to get 7.1 surround. I don't believe the Onkyo's can do the latter (meaning you'll only get 5.1 from LPCM over HDMI). Maybe someone else can confirm/deny that about the Onkyo's. I found my 2307CI online for $599.

Well over the weekend I routed an ethernet cable through my walls from the router in the computer room to the PS3 (20GB) in the family room. I have now upgraded to 1.5. No apparent changes every thing works fine. Watched two Blu-ray movies over the weekend. MI-III was awesome.

One question I have is this. I puchased two PS3 games. One says 720p output (Madden 07) and I have not broken the wrapper while I think about it. Since my TV is 1080i only I know this means it will be downscaled to 480p or 480i. Will it play in widescreen or 4x3 only. If it is 4x3 only maybe I should return it for the PS2 version as it is SD only and half the price. Thanks for any advice you could give me.

Rick R

I cannot comment on whether or not the downscaled version of the PS3 madden will be in widescreen or 4x3, but I will assume it's widescreen. I have played PS2 games on the PS3 and they are displayed in widescreen but on my 1366x768 lcd panel it fills up all of the screen except the last half inch on both sides.

As far as whether or not to pick up the PS2 version of madden, I will give my opinion on the recent version of NCAA March Madness 07 that I bought. It only came on the PS2 platform so I bought it for playing on the PS3. It is virtually unplayable for me after playing several months of PS3 games. The jaggies on the players is horrendous. I literally played it for 30 seconds before turning it off and thinking of taking it back or selling it used. I imagine the downscaled version of a PS3 game would still look better than the same game in a PS2 version, but I'm only speculating. Perhaps you would want to go to Blockbuster and rent both versions before making a decision.

Brandon

I cannot comment on whether or not the downscaled version of the PS3 madden will be in widescreen or 4x3, but I will assume it's widescreen. I have played PS2 games on the PS3 and they are displayed in widescreen but on my 1366x768 lcd panel it fills up all of the screen except the last half inch on both sides.

As far as whether or not to pick up the PS2 version of madden, I will give my opinion on the recent version of NCAA March Madness 07 that I bought. It only came on the PS2 platform so I bought it for playing on the PS3. It is virtually unplayable for me after playing several months of PS3 games. The jaggies on the players is horrendous. I literally played it for 30 seconds before turning it off and thinking of taking it back or selling it used. I imagine the downscaled version of a PS3 game would still look better than the same game in a PS2 version, but I'm only speculating. Perhaps you would want to go to Blockbuster and rent both versions before making a decision.

Brandon
Although there was a fix for jagged edges for PS2 games in update 1.5, I agree with Brandon's suggestion.

Brandon,

Thanks for the comments. I will probably keep the PS3 version. There is some speculation earlier in this thread that there is a currently disabled scaler in the PS3 that might make this display in HD later. Sounds as if it will be better now and possible HD later.

Rick R

Upscaling has nothing to do with aspect ratio... a 4:3 aspect ratio source or 16:9 aspect ratio source would retain their respective aspect ratios when upscaled by either the DVD player or television. As far as the stretching is concerned, my PS3 is set to letterobx in the DVD display preferences (there is also a 4:3 option) and it sends 4:3 source material to my TV just fine. It's on the TV where I need to select an appropriate stretch/zoom mode.

The PS3 does not stretch 4:3 source material, at least that's what I'm seeing.

I'm hoping for them to eliminate the need for any adjustment on the display for 4:3 material. The HD-A1 will pillarbox 4:3 content so it is shown properly with no need for me to change a setting on the projector.