It seems that all Costco stores are out of stock on Pioneer 50" Plasmas. Does anyone know if Costco will continue to carry them? It seems odd that all stores are out of stock on this model. :confused:
when i picked up my 50 philips last week i counted 11 50" pioneers on hand at the ft myers, fl costco

Does anyone know the model number of 42" Panny EDTV being sold at Costco? I was at BB last weekend and was intrigued by the PQ of the set comparing to other plasmas (no offense, just my personal observation). I'm interested because my requirement is low. I'm planning on using it just to view non-HD materials (over-the-air channels, DVDs and PC media files). Instead of buying HDTV, I could use the extra $$ to buy a nice HTiB.

your opinion is welcomed.

Hi Everyone,
First time poster, long time lurker....... I am about to purchase the Philips 42" Plasma and have researched everything to death. Talked to people @ CC and Sears. Looked at threads here, there and everywhere. I have three questions for the experienced owners in the forum that I couldn't find answers.

First, I've been told that plasma's aren't to be used AT ALL for gaming (we have GameCube for the kids) because of the chance of burn in - is that true? (I saw gamers here talk about it with no concern for this - outside of common sense, correct?)

Second, I've been told the plasma (back of the unit) gets very hot and that has a tendency to "affect" the life of the unit itself. Not sure if I believe that or not, but anyone have any experience with this situation?

Lastly, extended warranties; I've never been a fan of them, but in this case, is it worth it? Does the extended warranty (say CC's for 3 yrs) cover most of the stuff that can happen over time? I know once the unit is broken, you basically have to get a new one.

Also, any recommendations on an antenna to pick up OTA HD signals (we don't have cable, satellite or dish - don't ask, the boss doesn't like tv and this is my only vice)?

I'd appreciate any input you might have. Sorry for the rant. I've learned a lot from this site. Thank you for all the information.

Does anyone know the model number of 42" Panny EDTV being sold at Costco? I was at BB last weekend and was intrigued by the PQ of the set comparing to other plasmas (no offense, just my personal observation). I'm interested because my requirement is low. I'm planning on using it just to view non-HD materials (over-the-air channels, DVDs and PC media files). Instead of buying HDTV, I could use the extra $$ to buy a nice HTiB.

your opinion is welcomed.

Does this mean you saw a 42" Panasonic at Costco? I've not seen any in their store or on site.

Hi Everyone,
First time poster, long time lurker....... I am about to purchase the Philips 42" Plasma and have researched everything to death. Talked to people @ CC and Sears. Looked at threads here, there and everywhere. I have three questions for the experienced owners in the forum that I couldn't find answers.

First, I've been told that plasma's aren't to be used AT ALL for gaming (we have GameCube for the kids) because of the chance of burn in - is that true? (I saw gamers here talk about it with no concern for this - outside of common sense, correct?)

Second, I've been told the plasma (back of the unit) gets very hot and that has a tendency to "affect" the life of the unit itself. Not sure if I believe that or not, but anyone have any experience with this situation?

Lastly, extended warranties; I've never been a fan of them, but in this case, is it worth it? Does the extended warranty (say CC's for 3 yrs) cover most of the stuff that can happen over time? I know once the unit is broken, you basically have to get a new one.

Also, any recommendations on an antenna to pick up OTA HD signals (we don't have cable, satellite or dish - don't ask, the boss doesn't like tv and this is my only vice)?

I'd appreciate any input you might have. Sorry for the rant. I've learned a lot from this site. Thank you for all the information.

1 - I Playstation on my plasma all the time. LIES!

2 - It gets warm. Hot? No. All tv's put off heat, thats' why there are vents in the back.

3 - If you buy an extended warranty, buy Phillips'. The only other company I have experience with extended warrantys is Sears, but I never had to use it. The 3 year on these plasmas is pricey. Just my opinion though. I don't buy anything from CC as I hate them. Don't know about Best Buy warranties.

4 - Silver Sensors work great, depending on where you live. Its an inside one.

Do a search on the forum about Repairmaster warranties. It seems like a lot of members are using them. I have not used them as of yet, but I am leaning towards them.

Costco model # for the 42" Panasonic EDTV is TH-42PM50U. That's what my local Costcos used to carry anyway. No tuners in that one.


Harper

Do a search on the forum about Repairmaster warranties. It seems like a lot of members are using them. I have not used them as of yet, but I am leaning towards them.

I'm curous about Repairmaster also. It seems that a lot of people are buying them because they are a reasonable price. But I haven't read of anyone who had to use the warranty. So, I wonder if the service will be there or will it be a hassle.

1 - I Playstation on my plasma all the time. LIES!

2 - It gets warm. Hot? No. All tv's put off heat, thats' why there are vents in the back.

3 - If you buy an extended warranty, buy Phillips'. The only other company I have experience with extended warrantys is Sears, but I never had to use it. The 3 year on these plasmas is pricey. Just my opinion though. I don't buy anything from CC as I hate them. Don't know about Best Buy warranties.

4 - Silver Sensors work great, depending on where you live. Its an inside one.


Thanks, black_macleod! I appreciate the input. My kids (and me :p ) will love the fact that gaming can be done.

I'll look at the Philips' website for more info on the warranty.

Anyone else?

I recently purchased the Sharp AQUOS 26" LC26GA5U LCD. So far I really like the monitor and the PQ. I have 30 days to return the monitor to Circuit City and I have to say that I am still itching to try out the LG 26" 26LX1D and the Samsung 26" LN-R268W. I was even considering the Syntax 26".

The thing is, I am wondering how hard it really is to return these monitors to a store? I wouldn't mind buying a few more LCD monitors at different CC stores and then testing them out. I would obviously keep the one that I feel is the best fit for me!

Anyone done this kind of "try before you buy?"

Thanks!!!

I recently purchased the Sharp AQUOS 26" LC26GA5U LCD. So far I really like the monitor and the PQ. I have 30 days to return the monitor to Circuit City and I have to say that I am still itching to try out the LG 26" 26LX1D and the Samsung 26" LN-R268W. I was even considering the Syntax 26".

The thing is, I am wondering how hard it really is to return these monitors to a store? I wouldn't mind buying a few more LCD monitors at different CC stores and then testing them out. I would obviously keep the one that I feel is the best fit for me!

Anyone done this kind of "try before you buy?"

Thanks!!!

Yes, I have. And Circuit City, based on my experiences, is not the place to do it. Returning something to the store is anything but "hassle free." Try Costco. Even Best Buy, which I'm not fond of, either, beats Circuit City. CC goes out of their way to point out something YOU did with the TV (even if you didn't) and then refuses to take it back. At least not without a fight.

I agree cc is not the place to try taking things back. I bought a lg3510 from them had problems w/ it about 20 days after I owned it. took it back to cc and exchanged it for another one. I asked the lady at the desk if I had 30 days on the one I was getting. her reply was that i had 30 days from the original purchase. I said to her so I only have 10 days, she said that is correct. So on day 10 took it back. Nothing wrong w/ the new unit, but her comment ticked me off. Needless to say I have not been to cc for 2 years now.

where can you get the phillips extended warranty from? i've seen it offered on only one website online. can you buy the extended warranty seperately?

Seriously, everyone who talks about the ethics of returning items to Costco need to remember that it's obviously built into their business model and they must be making enough money through the many ventures they have (tires, mortgages, autos, etc) or else they wouldn't do it! And every time they take back a piece of merch, chances are very good that the person will turn around and buy something else (which creates another sale) that same day.

I am a Costco buyer for LIFE after I recently took back a 32" LCD that didn't fit my needs anymore after 4 months. I even told the customer service lady that and she said it doesn't matter what the reason is. She peeled off $2000 in 20's and guess what? I turned right back around, ponied up an extra $500 and got the display of my dreams. I am a happy customer. If they change this policy, how many loyal Costco TV buyers lose their piece of mind and reason for solely shopping at Costco?

It doesn't seem like Costco's prices on Sharp LCDs are as attractive as some other resellers/dealers. Obviously, their return policy is a strong selling point, but their prices on other brands seem more competitve than what they offer for Sharp LCDs. Has anyone else noticed this? I know the Sharp line is pretty large and it's sometimes difficult to figure out exactly which model Costco is selling.

well i went to my local costco. unfortunately they didn't have the 42" philips plasma i was hoping to buy. all their tv's looked bad even through their component feeds. funny thing is their 50" vizio plasma was the best looking display on the floor as far as picture quality.

Seriously, everyone who talks about the ethics of returning items to Costco need to remember that it's obviously built into their business model and they must be making enough money through the many ventures they have (tires, mortgages, autos, etc) or else they wouldn't do it! And every time they take back a piece of merch, chances are very good that the person will turn around and buy something else (which creates another sale) that same day.

I am a Costco buyer for LIFE after I recently took back a 32" LCD that didn't fit my needs anymore after 4 months. I even told the customer service lady that and she said it doesn't matter what the reason is. She peeled off $2000 in 20's and guess what? I turned right back around, ponied up an extra $500 and got the display of my dreams. I am a happy customer. If they change this policy, how many loyal Costco TV buyers lose their piece of mind and reason for solely shopping at Costco?

This sounds a lot like someone using the ends to justify the means to me.

Costco model # for the 42" Panasonic EDTV is TH-42PM50U. That's what my local Costcos used to carry anyway. No tuners in that one.

Harper

Thanks, Harper. I just did a search "M" stands for "Monitor", no tuners indeed. I guess the "5" stands for "generation 5", shouldn't it be up to generation 6 or 7 by now? No tuners is a big thumbs down. Anyway, I'll check it out at the store tomorrow.

Well I've never done the costco thing before, but I highly doubt costco take a huge hit on things like this. Most likely they donate to charities and get some tax deduction to offset any loss that occurs, enter into some return agreement with the distributors/manufacturers,
and bank on the person just turning around and buying a new product with the money. It kind of goes to the vegas odds theory, "if the house offers you a bet...they always have an advantage."

Costco doesn't take a hit at all. They have iron clad contracts with everyone who sells through them that they will take back any and all returns and credit their account. On any item that you return to Costco the manufacturer/distributor eats the cost.

Obviously, the end result of this will be that those manufacturers go to a slightly higher price point to make up for those losses. No such thing as a free lunch and all.

Thanks, Harper. I just did a search "M" stands for "Monitor", no tuners indeed. I guess the "5" stands for "generation 5", shouldn't it be up to generation 6 or 7 by now? No tuners is a big thumbs down. Anyway, I'll check it out at the store tomorrow.

I think the EDTV is 42PD50U with the built in tuner
The 50PM50U are the monitors, no tuners.

Costco doesn't take a hit at all. They have iron clad contracts with everyone who sells through them that they will take back any and all returns and credit their account. On any item that you return to Costco the manufacturer/distributor eats the cost.

Obviously, the end result of this will be that those manufacturers go to a slightly higher price point to make up for those losses. No such thing as a free lunch and all.

Of course Costco takes a hit. Anytime something is returned, Costco's profits are reduced.

People shouldn't utilize Costco's great return policy as an invitation for making poor purchasing decisions.

anyone order a set from the costco.com site? i ordered a 50 toshiba twoweeks ago and have not heard anything from the "white glove" service? it said it shipped the tuesday before last.... but no tracking numbers, etc??

anyone have experience in how long it actually takes.... i assumed that when it said it shipped i'd have it for this sunday....

Don't shoot me, but I have seen several folks talk bad about the return policy of CC, and BB has gave me nightmares before as well...

I know Costco has a great policy, but they just are not carrying what I want in a plasma.

SO I thought I'd ask what folks thought about buying at a Hi-Fi Buys/Tweeter's... if the price is comparable. Anyone know if they have decent customer service or hassles if you have a problem?

Much thanks.

i also ordered a toshiba 50hp95 from costco on january 11th. i recieved the set on january 27th. you won't hear from anyone until the local delivery company has the set. you can call costco @ 800-955-2292 and they will give you the tracking #. if it ships through bekins, you'll have to call them to get the best info on it. they have tracking on the bekins site, but it isn't really that good. try this site http://ecom.bekins.com/tracking/guest/GuestSearch.jsp?code=-74

select delivery phone #, the enter your phone # in the search value entry. see what you get. i am only assuming that they are the ones handling yours. may be someone different. good luck. i know the wait sucks, but it is WELL worth it.

I agree with Chris42z.
I spoke with one of my local Costco customer supervisor regarding the issue of returned merch. She stated that all vendors and manufactures that wishes to sell their merch. via Costco must enter an agreement with Costco and it's iron clad rule of being willing to take back all returned merch. in any shape or form and credit their account. I asked her then why would anyone want to do business with Costco. Her answer was "Costco has the size and the power to move merch. like no other retailer." So they do because they know they can sell more through Costco despite of this rule.

This manager was most proud of costco's return policy. She stated Costco is now the gold standard to which all stores are measured up against regarding their return policies. Nordstrum, is considered # 2 in their merch. return policy.
She feels that this policy will not likely change as this was the way Costco was founded.

Regarding shoppers who abuses Costco's policy, she stated that they do keep track of the abusers and will notify them of their actions and at rare incidences, they have canceled memberships to those who continued to abuse it. She, however, emphasized that this is an event. Most shopper do use this policy very appropriately.

I was really pleased to hear what she had to say and how she was so proud of Costco's leadership in this regard.

I agree with Chris42z.
I spoke with one of my local Costco customer supervisor regarding the issue of returned merch. She stated that all vendors and manufactures that wishes to sell their merch. via Costco must enter an agreement with Costco and it's iron clad rule of being willing to take back all returned merch. in any shape or form and credit their account. I asked her then why would anyone want to do business with Costco. Her answer was "Costco has the size and the power to move merch. like no other retailer." So they do because they know they can sell more through Costco despite of this rule.

This manager was most proud of costco's return policy. She stated Costco is now the gold standard to which all stores are measured up against regarding their return policies. Nordstrum, is considered # 2 in their merch. return policy.
She feels that this policy will not likely change as this was the way Costco was founded.

Regarding shoppers who abuses Costco's policy, she stated that they do keep track of the abusers and will notify them of their actions and at rare incidences, they have canceled memberships to those who continued to abuse it. She, however, emphasized that this is an event. Most shopper do use this policy very appropriately.

I was really pleased to hear what she had to say and how she was so proud of Costco's leadership in this regard.


Right. And to the guy who claims that "we all pay for it in the end if the mfr has to take the hit", what makes you think that cost isn't absorbed into the wholesale price to costco? We know the BB's and CC's can sometimes undercut Costco on certain models and mfr's (like the Sharp models mentioned above) so what if that shows us that some mfr's are less willing to take a bath than others and that's why some models at costco are less competitively priced than others? Seriously, if Costco can't even put a stipulation on how many returns are too many, than why shouldn't we take full advantage of the liberal "100% Satisfaction Guarantee"? If I'm not satisfied with my $3000 purchase, bet your ass I want the option to take it back. I won't let the poor return conventions established by inferior B&M's for years tell me that I only have 30 or 14 days to be satisfied with my major purchase when I have an alternative...

Right. And to the guy who claims that "we all pay for it in the end if the mfr has to take the hit", what makes you think that cost isn't absorbed into the wholesale price to costco? We know the BB's and CC's can sometimes undercut Costco on certain models and mfr's (like the Sharp models mentioned above) so what if that shows us that some mfr's are less willing to take a bath than others and that's why some models at costco are less competitively priced than others? Seriously, if Costco can't even put a stipulation on how many returns are too many, than why shouldn't we take full advantage of the liberal "100% Satisfaction Guarantee"? If I'm not satisfied with my $3000 purchase, bet your ass I want the option to take it back. I won't let the poor return conventions established by inferior B&M's for years tell me that I only have 30 or 14 days to be satisfied with my major purchase when I have an alternative...

Wow....

Costco obviously does have rules about how many returns are too many. And when you buy a nice tv from them, and then return the working unit simply because you decided that you made a bad decision, why should Costco and the manufacturer bear that cost?

If you're worried about "taking full advantage" of their return policy, then I'd have to say that I look forward to them dumping you as a member! :eek:

Given the expected high demand for the new Panasonic's this spring [TH-50PX600U, TH-50PX60U], is it unrealistic to think Costco will carry them in store for any kind of "good price"? Anyone know if they take pre-orders?

Karen
Marin County, CA

Is a new Pioneer 42" coming out this month at Costco? i called my local costco to check the inventory and they said they didnt have any 42" plasmas at the moment but a pioneer is suppose to be coming in sometime this month and retail there for under $3000. any word on this and if so does anyone know the model?

I am not sure if this question has been answered regarding Costco. What if you purchase from Costco, cancel your membership. Assume that you want to return the tv for some reason at a later date. Can you? (assuming that you reactivate the membership) Does it depend on the reason? I would assume that this would not work. Just curious.

I am not sure if this question has been answered regarding Costco. What if you purchase from Costco, cancel your membership. Assume that you want to return the tv for some reason at a later date. Can you? (assuming that you reactivate the membership) Does it depend on the reason? I would assume that this would not work. Just curious.


The return policy is only in effect as long as you remain a member. Makes sense since many would join for the "free" EW and low prices then cancel. It pays to be a memeber IF you buy more then TVS there. Even if you don't $45 a year is a cheap EW with FULL refund at anytime.

Pioneer now has the info on the PDP-42A3HD (Costco PDP-4214HD) on their website. They also list the 4312HD. Manufacturers list prices are low.

http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pna/plasma/comparison/selection/page/0,,2076_4123,00.html

What do you mean "new"?
There's currently a 42" Pio HD at the Costco I go to. It is under 3K but not sure what the exact model is.

What do you mean "new"?
There's currently a 42" Pio HD at the Costco I go to. It is under 3K but not sure what the exact model is.

I assume you were referring to my post. I did not use the word "new". Anyway , I have the unit also for over a month, but it was not on the Pioneer website. Now it is! OK

There's a new JVC LCD model #LT26X466 at the Costco I go to. Its a 26 inch model and its going for pretty cheap. Does anyone have this TV or might have some more info on this TV? They just came in today. The picture was pretty good in the store too.

anyone have the 50in pio from costco? what is the model #? thanks!

I have the 50" Pioneer. It's the PDP-50A5HD. It is once again on Costco's website.

i also ordered a toshiba 50hp95 from costco on january 11th. i recieved the set on january 27th. you won't hear from anyone until the local delivery company has the set. you can call costco @ 800-955-2292 and they will give you the tracking #. if it ships through bekins, you'll have to call them to get the best info on it. they have tracking on the bekins site, but it isn't really that good. try this site http://ecom.bekins.com/tracking/guest/GuestSearch.jsp?code=-74

select delivery phone #, the enter your phone # in the search value entry. see what you get. i am only assuming that they are the ones handling yours. may be someone different. good luck. i know the wait sucks, but it is WELL worth it.

thanks.... i see it there... as you say, not much of a help, BUT.... i can see the local delivery company's name and can work that route!

Thanks!

I have the 50" Pioneer. It's the PDP-50A5HD. It is once again on Costco's website.

would u be so kind to post some pics if you have any. are u happy with it? any issues?

I am more than happy with this set. It has exceeded every expectation. If I'd have known it was going to be this good I'd have bought it two months earlier. My D* picture is very good running through s-video. I'm working on getting an H20 so I can use component or HDMI. I have 175 hours logged to date. There have been no negative issues of any kind. I have yet to see any image retention resulting from bars, logos, or static images. I will say, however, I'm being pretty careful until I hit 200 hours. HD is fantastic (stretchable if desired) and DVD's look nearly as good. Sorry, this was the only picture I have. It looks a lot better than this picture would indicate.

We have enjoyed our PDP50A5HD (from Costco) for over 3 months now.
We think it has a great picture on SD and HD sources. We also like the features like included HD/SD tuners and cablecard allowing us to use it directly connected to cable or antenna (No STB needed).

See attached pic of local PBS HD channel (taken with flash)

The second pic was taken with my camera phone showing a number of sets on display with the Pio.
(from L to R) (from memory)
?Visio 50" PD ?, ?Visio 37" LCD ?, Panny PD 42" ED, Philips 32" LCD, Pio 42" PDP-4214, Pio 50" PDP-50A5HD.

The quality of the pic is poor but it does show the relative black levels between sets.

Last month Costco offered the Akai 27" Widscreen LCD TV with DVD on a coupon discount. Sets were sold out by the time I went shopping. Did anyone get this set? If so, what's your verdict -- should I use my raincheck? Thank you.

Stopped by my local BB and CC today and was looking to see if anything was in their systems on the new 65" Panny Plasma...Both stores informed me they would not be carrying it...not even in the warehouse......50" was going to be the largest....Can anyone verify this?


Thanks,

Randy

Is the Pioneer 50 inch plasma at Costco (model #PDP-50A5HD) the same as the model available at BB (model #PDP-5060HD) ???

The Costco website lists no reference to the external media box that is used in the elite and 5060.

Is the Pioneer 50 inch plasma at Costco (model #PDP-50A5HD) the same as the model available at BB (model #PDP-5060HD) ???

The Costco website lists no reference to the external media box that is used in the elite and 5060.

I believe the Costco Pio PDP-50A5HD is the same as the Pio PDP-5050HD - only no media box as connectons are all on the back of the Costco set.

The inner box that contains the plasma says 5050SX. The 5050 and 5060 with the media receivers have more inputs and does make wall mounting easier. That wasn't an issue for me since I never planned to wall mount the unit. My 50A5HD is dead quiet. No buzzing, humming or whirring fan noises. I know the unit has fans, but I've never heard them.

I went to Costco this morning and there is the 50A5Pioneer and the Panasonic50Mu side by side.Both connected thru component,receiving 1080i signal,with black bars on top and bottom.The picture on the panasonic looks natural but on the pioneer the picture are kind of stretch out sideways.I tried to adjust the picture size but all I see is Full and Wide.Now is there another setting that I'm missing here to get a natural looking picture?I'm planning on getting this Pioneer.Thanks.

I just returned a Sceptre 37" LCD to costco since it developed a column of stuck red pixels two months after I bought it. They took it back no questions asked. All I have to say is that I bought another LCD from Costco and will continue to buy big ticket items from them simply for their return policy. Two thumbs up for them in my book!!!!

Okay...so I needed to return my 50" Zenith cuz of buzzing...in a nutshell Bestbuy.com SUX...but the Bestbuy sales manager where I live ROCKS! He spent over an hour with me trying to find a way to get me my exchange without me losing my rebates. Considering his store wasn't going to make a dime on this exchange that was way cool of him to do that on a busy Sunday. I'll be definitely going back to this store, but never EVER going to buy from bestbuy.com again.

I went to Costco this morning and there is the 50A5Pioneer and the Panasonic50Mu side by side.Both connected thru component,receiving 1080i signal,with black bars on top and bottom.The picture on the panasonic looks natural but on the pioneer the picture are kind of stretch out sideways.I tried to adjust the picture size but all I see is Full and Wide.Now is there another setting that I'm missing here to get a natural looking picture?I'm planning on getting this Pioneer.Thanks.

If the only choices were full and wide then the sets must have been receiving the HD signal. Full should give the unstretched picture. I use wide if I want to get rid of side bars during commercials or for HD programs that are broadcast with the side bars. This has rarely occurred. (once) I haven't run across an HD broadcast with top and bottom bars. If I did, I'd probably use full and just watch it.

Hi All,

It is not all true that Costco is not losing money when someone returns items. If the item being returned is not broken or have nothing wrong with it; Costco can't send the item back for full credit. They well have to sell it at discount.

The item will be marked as display or opened item with 10% to 15% discount (I am guessing). Like a double-door refrigerator I got from them that I end up half opened and returned the next day because it would not fit my kitchen. They marked it as display item and low the price like $150 cheaper.

Master-Q

Hi All,

It is not all true that Costco is not losing money when someone returns items. If the item being returned is not broken or have nothing wrong with it; Costco can't send the item back for full credit. They well have to sell it at discount.

The item will be marked as display or opened item with 10% to 15% discount (I am guessing). Like a double-door refrigerator I got from them that I end up half opened and returned the next day because it would not fit my kitchen. They marked it as display item and low the price like $150 cheaper.

Master-Q

while speaking to the manager of my local costco a few months ago, he stated matter of factly that NO returned mechandise is put back on the floor (unless it is unopened). the only deals or mark downs you will find at costco will be either floor displays (which they have to sell as open box) or merchandise that they are phasing out (price ends in .97). my personally never seeing anything but those two things supports his statement.
it has also been published that you will never pay over 14% above cost for items. of course cost will very for every merchant, but you still know it will be a pretty good deal for a b&b with great policies.

that's definitely not true. i know because i've seen my local costco take older returned TVs that have no problems and slap a tag on it and put it back on the floor for sale.

perhaps they can return the tv for a full credit from the manufacturer for a brief period of time after sale, like 90 days. but if the TV can't go back and it is resellable, they will resell it at a discount.

that's definitely not true. i know because i've seen my local costco take older returned TVs that have no problems and slap a tag on it and put it back on the floor for sale.

perhaps they can return the tv for a full credit from the manufacturer for a brief period of time after sale, like 90 days. but if the TV can't go back and it is resellable, they will resell it at a discount.

I agreed with Ihsa. Here in Lancaster,CA they do that lots of times. Especially their software programs and games. You can tell it is open because they taped it back with I think yellow tapes.

I know it was the refrigerator that I returned because of the why how the box looked like.

Master-Q

i am not saying that what you say about your costco's isn't true. i was only stating what the manager at mine said, and what i personally see there. i shop @ mine 2x a week, and spend between $10k and $15k a year there. so i see a fair amount for a regular guy shopping there. maybe each store is run a little different (obviously).

What I'm wondering about is this: can Costco change their return policy after you have already made the purchase and have the new policy affect your existing purchase?
No, and that applies to all stores.
As long as you have a receipt, showing the policy on the day of purchase, that is all you need to verify the effective policy.

I called Costco about their return policy and asked that specific question, which was "if I buy a plasma TV today with a one year warranty, and 5 years from now, it burns out, can I return it for a full refund" and they said yes, and would also refund the shipping. Also, they said there was no time limit. Then I asked "If your policy changes in the future, would I be bound by the policy in force when I made the purchase, or by the new policy". They said I would be bound by the new policy, but they said their return policy was established when they were created and there was no indication it would ever change. They said they had to change it with computers because people were returning computers just to keep up with the new technology, and they made the adjustment to limiting computer returns to 6 months, but no other changes were expected. Hope this helps.
I believe I would follow these words of wisdom. So don't abuse there policy and will be happy.

O.K. Now COSTCO has a Pioneer #950500.. What is this model??? I'm ready to buy a Pioneer PDP5060HD and if this is a newer generation Pioneer I will purchase there..If not, has anyone dealt with EXPO ELECTRONICS in New Jersey?? Problems promises??

I just went to the Costco in Brooklyn, NY and the cupboard was pretty bare. The only 32" sets were the Philips 32PF7320A/37 and the Sony KLV-S32A10. The Dell was nowhere to be found. Does anyone have any idea if Costco's inventory will be replenished soon? I am particularly interested in Sharp, and I'd like to see the Dell.

Most important, though, Costco's wonderful return policy makes me want to buy a set there if possible, so I was hoping for a better selection.

vizio is releasing the L32 updated w/ ATSC tuner in the same timeframe
as the P42HDTV (mid/late march). odds are that national retailer == costco
in viziospeak.

O.K. Now COSTCO has a Pioneer #950500.. What is this model??? I'm ready to buy a Pioneer PDP5060HD and if this is a newer generation Pioneer I will purchase there..If not, has anyone dealt with EXPO ELECTRONICS in New Jersey?? Problems promises??

Scroll down - -that 950500 is the costco number. PDP-50A5HD is the model number down at the bottom of the item description on costco.com

matt

On my most recent trip to Costco I noticed that the 62" Toshiba was listed on the Costco price tag as carrying a 2 year warranty. Does anybody know if that is a referrence to the manufacturers warranty or should we be concered that they have changed their lifetime policy?

As an fyi about the Dell's at Costco. When I called mine, they said they don't carry the Dell tv's in store, just online...they only carry the Dell computers at the store. When I returned my Dell 32" today, the lady was surprised it was a tv...she assumed they only sold dell computers.

What happens if I buy an item at Costco that has a manufacturer rebate and I find an issue with it after I send in the rebate (most rebate I have seen have to be sent within 30 days)? Will they take it back minus the rebate or exchange it only (in that case will they exchange with a new one or a refurb/used?).

my costco just got some panny m50us!!!

Anyone know if the Costco return policies are the same for Costcos in Canada?

Anyone had any experience with Costco floor models? My local costco has the Pioneer 5040 and 50A5 floor models for sale at a significantly lower price. Is there a way to see how many hours they have been used for. My memory is the 50A5 has only been in this particular costco since just before Christmas.

The also now have a stock of the Panasonic 50PM50U for only a little more than these floor models so wonder if I am better off doing that?

Thanks!

The Panny PM50U's are in my local Costco as well. I bought mine on line 3 weeks ago, replaced my 43" Pio.

Great PQ/Set if you don't care about tuner/PIP etc.

Would have pursued the 50" 8UK as I like it's minimalist looks better, but I'm a Costcoholic
due to their return policy. Gives me tremendous peace of mind.

Now if they'd just get some Panny 42s in I'd be a happy camper.

Costco just put the 42" ED on display as well.

Right next to the Pio 4214. It more than holds it's own with the HD Pio.

Now if they'd just get some Panny 42s in I'd be a happy camper.

As posted earlier, the 42" Panny ED plasma is just a monitor (it shouldn't be called a TV). If they are carrying real EDTV in store, I'd be a happy camper.

As posted earlier, the 42" Panny ED plasma is just a monitor (it shouldn't be called a TV). If they are carrying real EDTV in store, I'd be a happy camper.

All I need is the display. If the local Costco's don't get any 42" Panny models, I'll most likely be ordering the PWD8UK.

On my most recent trip to Costco I noticed that the 62" Toshiba was listed on the Costco price tag as carrying a 2 year warranty. Does anybody know if that is a referrence to the manufacturers warranty or should we be concered that they have changed their lifetime policy?

When I was shopping for a Toshiba a few months ago (I did not wind up getting one), there were several sites touting the fact that Toshiba was soubling the factory warranty on their plasmas to 2 years. I would go to the Toshiba website, or call their customer service and ask, but I think that promotion is probably still in effect.

Darren

What happens if I buy an item at Costco that has a manufacturer rebate and I find an issue with it after I send in the rebate (most rebate I have seen have to be sent within 30 days)? Will they take it back minus the rebate or exchange it only (in that case will they exchange with a new one or a refurb/used?).

Based on my one experience at Costco in such a situation (returned an item that I already mailed in the rebate for): They just subtract the amount of the rebate from what cash you get back.

Will I be better served picking up the pio sale next week; or holding out for next months vizio? Is the pio worth the extra $$$? :confused:

i dont think that particular pio is worth the extra 500 or so, it's just a low end pio made for costco, that's coming from a pio fan

I have had the 4214HD for over a month now and I was expecting the picture to improve more than it has. No matter how much I calibrate ther set, I can not get the dark scenes to look decent. Very annoying, I think I am going to return it and buy a 4360(different store) to replace it.
It is not bad, but not good enough

I have had the 4214HD for over a month now and I was expecting the picture to improve more than it has. No matter how much I calibrate ther set, I can not get the dark scenes to look decent. Very annoying, I think I am going to return it and buy a 4360(different store) to replace it.
It is not bad, but not good enough

I took it back today. No questions asked. Full cash refund. Great store.

cant wait until costco gets the 6th gen pios

Just left costco in Cen.Fl. Pioneer 42" on sale with in store flyer week of2/13-2/19.
Significant savings. It wasn't in the wallet book they mailed out. Must be phasing out.

yep they are, but that pio's quality isn't good at all imo

Of course Costco takes a hit. Anytime something is returned, Costco's profits are reduced.

People shouldn't utilize Costco's great return policy as an invitation for making poor purchasing decisions.


Oh Pul-leeze, that billion dollar company does not need your $20.00 defense. If they have an unlimited return policy I will return something as many times as I want.

What a bunch of self righteous drivel. :mad:

Oh Pul-leeze, that billion dollar company does not need your $20.00 defense. If they have an unlimited return policy I will return something as many times as I want.

What a bunch of self righteous drivel. :mad:

Abuse the policy, and we'll all lose it forever, and some of us will lose memberships as well.

Abuse the policy, and we'll all lose it forever, and some of us will lose memberships as well.


Nobody is buying plasma TV's, tying up a couple grand, mounting them on their wall and returning them just for the fun of it. However they are willing to try some bargains knowing the return policy of the store.

I have returned 2 TV's to costco. An akai RPTV that burnt out and died after 2 years(they gave me a 100% cash back refund) and a Pioneer Plasma 4214HD after watching it for a month and found I was unable to live with the picture.

The last thing I wanted to do is take it off the wall and return it and then spend more money for a better set, but that is what I did thanks to Costco's return policy.

Well, I just recieved my Th-50PM50U from Costco, so I was wondering what settings other people have come up with. Also, if possible please describe the method you used, Avia, Dvi, personal experience etc.

Since I heard that the TH-50PM50U is similar to TH-50PX50U those settings are welcome too, but PM's are prefered just in case :)

Let's go Costco nation :),

I think the title of this thread says it all..... planning on buying from either pcconnect or b&h.... but if I can walk into CC and walk out w/ my tv for the same price, I'd like to..... anyone know anything on this matter?

Thanks!

I think the title of this thread says it all..... planning on buying from either pcconnect or b&h.... but if I can walk into CC and walk out w/ my tv for the same price, I'd like to..... anyone know anything on this matter?

Thanks!

Officially they don't. They ony price match local retailers with the exact same item in stock.

But that doesn't mean they won't come down in price. They do have some flexibility.

good to know..... let me throw this out there..... the particular tv I'm interested in was on sale there for $400 less than their regular price about two weeks ago.... B&H is selling the same set for about a hundred less than that sale price.... I'd be happy to walk out of CC paying the sale price from two weeks back..... anyone have any thoughts?

Thanks again

I have often gone in to CC and asked them to match a previous sale price and they have done it. I've done the same thing at BB. All you have to do is ask - they know what their lowest advertised price is whether or not it's currently on sale. Depending on how much you are spending, the tax you save from B&H might be significant, but then again, you probably have to pay shipping if you go with B&H.

No shipping charge at CC, but sales tax & maybe delivery charge.

Edit: :o I type too slow.

coming from a sales MGR @ Circuit city, yes i usually match online retailers AFTER shipping.... that is if its a reputable place (not bobs tvs.com or whatever ya know)

and i have to verify that its in stock

but usually ill work with people....

circuit city the corporation doesnt realize that we are in a global market now.... and internet retailers are mostly good now

but i do, and i recognize the choice, so ill usually help people out

thanks for the input guys, I think I'll go and see if I can get that old sale price before buying from b&h.... the prices are very close to one another after shipping/tax, so either way it'll work out pricewise.... just hoping to get the tv a little sooner.... heh.

thats good to know. I'm hoping BB has the same philosophy.
Being in sales, although at a much different price point, a skinny deal is better than no deal.
I'm also amazed at the attitude of some of the local retailers when it comes to price matching. :eek: When someone wants to give you the sale, and its not unreasonable or falls within the margins of other retailers, take it. Its a sale.
Easy money in your pocket. DUH!

thats good to know. I'm hoping BB has the same philosophy.
Being in sales, although at a much different price point, a skinny deal is better than no deal.
I'm also amazed at the attitude of some of the local retailers when it comes to price matching. :eek: When someone wants to give you the sale, and its not unreasonable or falls within the margins of other retailers, take it. Its a sale.
Easy money in your pocket. DUH!

Uhh, I'd double check before you commit to anything... I had a serious issue with BB price matching where they claimed at first they wouldn't match a mom & pop store (it says nothing about it needing to be a national chain in their price match guarantee, I might add).. Then I found a very large retail store (still not a chain), and they said they wouldn't match it because it wasn't in the 'local' market. Mind you, it was less than 10 miles away. Finally I found it at 6th ave electronics (a chain here in NJ), and they said they wouldn't match it because it wasn't in stock there... Never mind the fact that I had just COME from the closest 6th ave right beforehand, where I had VERIFIED that it was, indeed, in stock and priced as advertised. I took my argument to corporate (I attempted to call the CEO directly in Minnesota (got his # from bloomberg)). I was put in touch with one of his assistants who was very pleasant, but after a while she basically told me they weren't able to match 6th avenue because they've had some problems with them in the past...
It was all a crock of BS, for which I'll never shop at BB again as a result. They didn't honor their own policy, and they tried to placate me with a $100 gift certificate (which tells me they acknowledge they are wrong). I had a friend who is an attorney file a complaint about the whole thing on the basis of consumer fraud. NJ attorney generals office has actually given it their blessing, so we'll see what happens. Needless to say, my experience with the price match was certainly not a pleasant one. Maybe the price I wanted them to match was too good?

I think the title of this thread says it all..... planning on buying from either pcconnect or b&h.... but if I can walk into CC and walk out w/ my tv for the same price, I'd like to..... anyone know anything on this matter?You'll need to check with your particular CC store as their policy obviously varies widely from store to store.

My story: Back in May i went into my local CC (Hawthorne, Calif) to buy a TH-42PX50U that was on sale for about $400 off MSRP, but they were out of stock and a manager would not give me a rain check. So about a week later they got em back in stock but were now selling them for full MSRP. I looked online and found several places that were around $2600-$2800. I wasn't expecting them to price-match these online retailers, i just printed them out to show them that i know how low these things can be sold for, then went back to the store in an attempt to get the manager to give me last week's sale price or at least come close. The guy asked me if i'd be willing to buy the extended warranty ($699!) but there's no way i'm paying triple so he said "no warranty, no price reduction on the TV" and even though i gave him one last chance to make a fair deal he held his ground (MSRP) and let me walk out without buying anything.

You'll need to check with your particular CC store as their policy obviously varies widely from store to store.

My story: Back in May i went into my local CC (Hawthorne, Calif) to buy a TH-42PX50U that was on sale for about $400 off MSRP, but they were out of stock and a manager would not give me a rain check. So about a week later they got em back in stock but were now selling them for full MSRP. I looked online and found several places that were around $2600-$2800. I wasn't expecting them to price-match these online retailers, i just printed them out to show them that i know how low these things can be sold for, then went back to the store in an attempt to get the manager to give me last week's sale price or at least come close. The guy asked me if i'd be willing to buy the extended warranty ($699!) but there's no way i'm paying triple so he said "no warranty, no price reduction on the TV" and even though i gave him one last chance to make a fair deal he held his ground (MSRP) and let me walk out without buying anything.


Lol, what a dumb arse. I run into on-line pricing all the time and sometimes I can't compete due to having a business in the NE, but i get as close as I can & explain to the customer why. Not negotiating at all is just plain idiotic. I guess that is the difference doing business with a large mindless corporation & a professional small business. As much as I want to give the local retailer my hard earned money I'm not going to flush it down the drain either.
Like a said earlier, a skinny deal is better than no deal. I'd rather give my money to a small business thats outside my district than to a huge corporation that rather lose a customer than cater to one.

well, not that I agree w/ the aforementioned CC rep, I see why he did what he did..... the protection plan is pure profit.... they don't give you anything for that money.... they're litterally selling you a promise.

I've been in sales before, and if it meant selling someone a 2600 dollar item, I'd knock it down to a previous sale price, but that's just me.

I'll be testing the waters at my local CC this upcoming saturday, wish me luck..... and if anyone works at a CC in the South NJ area let me know... heh.

heh, good luck! Just make sure you are armed with plenty of proof and be extra nice.........

edin:

I have the PM50U; via HDMI and Component

Pic Setting Normal/Standard
Pic/contrast +20
brightness - 5
color +4
tint -4
sharpness -20

On HD all MPEG/NR are off. On with SD, move sharpness up to 0 - +10

black level = light

Used INHD tune up, DVE to calibrate.

Very satisfied with PQ.

Enjoy

Ken

Hi guys,

I'm just completely torn between these two models at Costco and they are currently selling at about the same price.

I don't care about inputs or hardware.

Just Picture Quality - HD and SD - which one is better?

Please help. looking to buy within a couple of days. I've seen both items separately but never on the same day and never in the same store and never next to each other.

Help would be greatly appreciated.

Hi guys,

I'm just completely torn between these two models at Costco and they are currently selling at about the same price.

I don't care about inputs or hardware.

Just Picture Quality - HD and SD - which one is better?

Please help. looking to buy within a couple of days. I've seen both items separately but never on the same day and never in the same store and never next to each other.

Help would be greatly appreciated.

Costco in Los Angeles just got in Pioneer 50 inch plasma PDP-50A5HD with cable card!
Any Thoughts??

Hi guys,

I'm just completely torn between these two models at Costco and they are currently selling at about the same price.

I don't care about inputs or hardware.

Just Picture Quality - HD and SD - which one is better?

Please help. looking to buy within a couple of days. I've seen both items separately but never on the same day and never in the same store and never next to each other.

Help would be greatly appreciated.

i would go with the pioneer, my uncle has one and seems to be happy. i would get a better one but for the money it's great. btw, my 2 costcos sold out of all the pios in one day.

I am a big pioneer fan, but that 42" at costco is not their best work. Dark sceens can't be made to look good. Just my 2 cents. :(

The price difference between those two models is about $600, isn't it? Does the Pio $600 more crisp/better looking than the Philips? I didn't think so, which is why I bought the Philips.

I actually wanted the Panny EDTV, which they told me on the phone they had in stock, but... for the 2nd time, NOPE!

Going to return the Philips for the EDTV once they stock the new 2006 line ... assuming they sell it ... :p

Harper

The price difference between those two models is about $600, isn't it? Does the Pio $600 more crisp/better looking than the Philips? I didn't think so, which is why I bought the Philips.

I actually wanted the Panny EDTV, which they told me on the phone they had in stock, but... for the 2nd time, NOPE!

Going to return the Philips for the EDTV once they stock the new 2006 line ... assuming they sell it ... :p

Harper

Do you have a tuner box? I think the NTSC/ATSC tuner box alone costs about $150-$300? That's what holding me up from buying the Panny monitor. Waiting for the Sceptre LCD instead.

Abuse the policy, and we'll all lose it forever, and some of us will lose memberships as well.

Who is the judge of what is and what isn't abuse? Why even pay money to shop at Costco? If you are concerned with guilt trips and abuse why not shop at Circuit City, Sears and Best Buy where they have fixed return periods.

Thanks Ken,

Can't wait my first 100 hours to be up to try it out :)

Anybody else wants to chime in with the settings they came by?

SweatyPalm,

I don't have a tuner, but unless I am remembering incorrectly, the new Panasonic Plasmas all have tuners built in (the 60 models coming out in Spring).

As for the Sceptre LCD ... I don't think the movie quality will compare to the Plasmas... I had the 37" Sceptre actually. Returned it due to the various problems and awful scaling of my SD stuff (non HD console games especially). Looked great as a computer monitor though. It's made me want a new big fat LCD for my computer now.. just dont have the space yet. Sceptre is a computer monitor manufacturer known for great pricing, but not particularly "great" monitors... If they made that naga as strictly a monitor, priced accordingly, I think they'd get me to buy again..

Harper

I'm a little confused regarding Sear's price match policy. According to the policy posted on their website, it states that they will price match only local stores and/or internet prices from companies with local B&M presence (100 miles according to customer service)
Now, I search the forums and read about ppl that had Sears price match prices from Butterfly photo, and other internet-only stores like that. I called customer service and they told me that they will not match internet only stores.

Anybody had luck getting sears to match internet only prices?

Im looking for a 42hp95

SweatyPalm,

I don't have a tuner, but unless I am remembering incorrectly, the new Panasonic Plasmas all have tuners built in (the 60 models coming out in Spring).

Harper

FYI, I called a few local Costco stores last week to ask for the model # of 42" Panny. All confirmed they are carrying "TH-42PMxxx" monitors. This model is specially tailored for Costco only so that they don't compete with BB,CC.
I don't think they are getting new ones with tuners.

The price difference between those two models is about $600, isn't it? Does the Pio $600 more crisp/better looking than the Philips? I didn't think so, which is why I bought the Philips.

I actually wanted the Panny EDTV, which they told me on the phone they had in stock, but... for the 2nd time, NOPE!

Going to return the Philips for the EDTV once they stock the new 2006 line ... assuming they sell it ... :p

Harper

You might lose your Costco membership as well.

I was in my local Sears today and was told that they are no longer selling the Panasonic 50" plasma (TH-50PX50U). I casually asked what they were doing with the floor display and the sales guy said they will sell it with a discount of 10%.

Is 10% their normal floor model discount? I am wondering if anyone has had experience negotiating the discount with a manager and what I can expect. Basically, there is no way I would take it for 10% off but I would consider it for 30-40% off.

You might lose your Costco membership as well.


Based on what?

costco in richmond, ca has the 42" and 50" panny's

Based on what?

Excellent question.

I guess I am having some difficulty understanding all the problem posts about Costco returns. The return policy is THEIR policy. Noone is forcing them to do it. If they thought it was unprofitable, you can bet they would stop it. Don't you think they realize how many expensive tvs they sell BECAUSE of the liberal return policy? Why else would you buy it there if not for the outstanding warranty?

Costco doesn't take the hit anyway, the vendors do, and the vendors factor all that into their selling price. Some think Costco will then have to raise prices. Well, if they do, you as the buyer have the option to purchase an item at that new price or not. Noone is forcing you to buy it either. If the price is too high, you walk, and Costco doesn't get your revenue/profit. Its the way its worked for thousands of years.

As for Costco taking away your membership...So what. If for some outlandish reason they do, and it is because of the returns, and they don't want your returns/business anymore, fine. One of the only reasons many people JOIN (and pay for the "privilege") is because they are buying an insurance policy, a confidence in Costco that they will stand by their products. If you can't have that anymore, what are you paying the fee for? Confidence in their Cheerios? Insurance for bottled water and paper towels?

Its not like Costco's prices are that great. Some things are prices aggressively, others are quite a bit higher than you can find at your local grocery/dry goods store. Without the added benefit of the "extended warranty", Costco isn't any better---or worse---than the next guy.

They as a seller have rules, guidelines, and policies. Buyers should have the same requirements. If a merchant doesn't meet your needs, you can always go somewhere else. Costco feels they gain a competitive advantage---and your business---by offering a liberal return policy.

costco in richmond, ca has the 42" and 50" panny's
Out of curiosity, which Panny models, specifically the 42?

Out of curiosity, which Panny models, specifically the 42?

Here in Tucson we had the Panasonic 42PM50U. They had 8 of them. I got one and it works great!

FYI, I called a few local Costco stores last week to ask for the model # of 42" Panny. All confirmed they are carrying "TH-42PMxxx" monitors. This model is specially tailored for Costco only so that they don't compete with BB,CC.
I don't think they are getting new ones with tuners.


I have no confidence in the Costco computer system or at best, in the employees releasing information on what products they have in stock or are on order. Two times I called two different Costcos asking if they had a certain model in stock, both times they said yes, and both times they were wrong. The first one a guy in their "electronics dept" said it was a miss-shipment, meaning they had it in the system, but Panasonic never delivered them or they just never received them. The second time I asked someone from the same dept and he said they just didn't have them. This after the girl on the phone told me specifically they were being sold on the floor.

I had been calling Costcos all across SoCal looking for that Panasonic 42" EDTV and besides the two mentioned above, the others all stated they didnt even have the EDTV in their system! Meaning, there were no plans to get any more. Well... low and behold, 1-2 weeks later, they are selling it.

I really have no idea if Costco will sell Panasonic's next line of EDTVs. They might just sell the PM50 until demand goes dead or Panasonic discontinues them. Panasonic won't tell me if Costco will carry them and the reps I've emailed at Costco either don't know or aren't telling. It will probably come down to waiting until Panasonics ships them out, and then calling, or possibly just keeping an eye out.

Harper

I guess I am having some difficulty understanding all the problem posts about Costco returns. The return policy is THEIR policy. Noone is forcing them to do it. If they thought it was unprofitable, you can bet they would stop it. Don't you think they realize how many expensive tvs they sell BECAUSE of the liberal return policy? Why else would you buy it there if not for the outstanding warranty?

Costco doesn't take the hit anyway, the vendors do, and the vendors factor all that into their selling price. Some think Costco will then have to raise prices. Well, if they do, you as the buyer have the option to purchase an item at that new price or not. Noone is forcing you to buy it either. If the price is too high, you walk, and Costco doesn't get your revenue/profit. Its the way its worked for thousands of years.

As for Costco taking away your membership...So what. If for some outlandish reason they do, and it is because of the returns, and they don't want your returns/business anymore, fine. One of the only reasons many people JOIN (and pay for the "privilege") is because they are buying an insurance policy, a confidence in Costco that they will stand by their products. If you can't have that anymore, what are you paying the fee for? Confidence in their Cheerios? Insurance for bottled water and paper towels?

Its not like Costco's prices are that great. Some things are prices aggressively, others are quite a bit higher than you can find at your local grocery/dry goods store. Without the added benefit of the "extended warranty", Costco isn't any better---or worse---than the next guy.

They as a seller have rules, guidelines, and policies. Buyers should have the same requirements. If a merchant doesn't meet your needs, you can always go somewhere else. Costco feels they gain a competitive advantage---and your business---by offering a liberal return policy.

I've been a Costco customer for years and have returned very little, however with the items that were returned, no questions asked. As to their prices, you are right about certain items being cheaper elsewhere and example would be DVD's that come out on the first day....Best Buy and Circuit City usually have these new releases for a few dollars less, however I have not been able to find cheaper TV prices especially when combined with a stand anywhere in my area.

I am looking at purchasing a Philips 42PF7320A 42" HD Plasma TV from Sears and wanted to use their price match policy. I note that Sams Club has Philips 42PF7320A/37 42" Plasma HD TV which seems to be the exact same model. Does anyone know if there is a difference or what the 37 at the end stands for.

My thought was it could just be a special Sams Club part number but I can not tell. I just want to be prepared before I request the price match.

Thank you in advance for any help.

I was at BJ's Whoolesale club today and they have a Pioneer PDP-4345HD on display.

Is this a current model? A good model ? One made for BJ's by Pioneer?

Thanks for any info...

Tim

My thought was it could just be a special Sams Club part number but I can not tell. I just want to be prepared before I request the price match.


Why should Sears match a membership warehouse price? It's not a price available to the general public, so unless they're feeling really generous I don't see any reason why they should match Sam's at all...

Why should Sears match a membership warehouse price? It's not a price available to the general public, so unless they're feeling really generous I don't see any reason why they should match Sam's at all...

My local Sears price match's costco and costco website all the time as long as you show your membership card.

They match because they have a shot at selling their useless $500 EW

I was looking at a good buy on a LCD TV at Sears the week before the Super Bowl. I ask the salesperson about their return policy. He said that I could return it, but Sears would apply a 15% restocking charge. I was really surprised at this because there is no way I would buy something as expensive as a flat panel HDTV without being able to return it if I wasn't satisfied. Sears slogan used to be "Satisfaction Guaranteed". I don' see how they can compete with the likes of Sam's, Costco, CC or BB with that kind of policy. I'm wondering if this is really Sear's current policy or maybe the salesperson just really wasn't in the know.
Does anyone know for sure about their returns policy?

I was looking at a good buy on a LCD TV at Sears the week before the Super Bowl. I ask the salesperson about their return policy. He said that I could return it, but Sears would apply a 15% restocking charge. I was really surprised at this because there is no way I would buy something as expensive as a flat panel HDTV without being able to return it if I wasn't satisfied. Sears slogan used to be "Satisfaction Guaranteed". I don' see how they can compete with the likes of Sam's, Costco, CC or BB with that kind of policy. I'm wondering if this is really Sear's current policy or maybe the salesperson just really wasn't in the know.
Does anyone know for sure about their returns policy?

well seeing as it was the week BEFORE the super bowl I bet he said that to avoid big screen "renters" for super bowl parties

No this is now Sears policy. It is the reason I will not be buying electronics there! :mad:

I was all set to buy the Toshiba 37HL95 from Costco when suddenly yesterday, pfffft-----it was gone. I sent an email asking if they would get another supply, and I'm waiting on their answer. Has anyone else experienced the disappearance of an item and then having it appear again? I know every item is different, but it might give me an idea if there is any hope for more inventory of this item. I guess I'll have to wait until they reply to my email, or check out the B&M Costcos to see if they carry that Toshiba.

Thanks,

Rerics

Not that it's bad or good, but I'm just curious. My saleperson denied being on commission when I casually asked, but seemed quite aggressive in beating a deal from another competitor. I assume (and even hope) they must have some incentive. I understand that Best Buy employees in general are not commissioned salespersons, but don't know how the Magnolia stores work. I have nothing but praise for the Magnolia rep who helped me out.

I don't know but the salesperson who sold me my 1130 certainly acted like a commission employee. I would think they have to be, there has to be some incentives involved for them. I get a little bit of a used car vibe when I'm in Magnolia but not quite as bad.. My sales guy even went back to his manager twice to approve the deal.

They are not Commission but i do believe they work off promotions from vendors for special pricing and free items i also believe they get a monthly bonus depending on sales of that month

They have always told me they are not on commission and any sales person can help me. They sure do push the extended warranties, though. I wonder if they get some kind of bonus if they meet cetain quotas.

Extended warranties? Yes, they get some incentive by departments, district, etc.

Ok, so in the past couple of pages we've seen Panasonic 42" models reported in CA and AZ. Has anyone seen any on the east coast? I've been keeping an eye open in the Costcos around Boston with no luck. Checked Dedham and Avon locations yesterday.

Personally, I'm leaning towards the 8UK model instead as I prefer the dark bezel and slot options, but given Costco's return policy, I have to admit I'd love the extra peace of mind, if the price is right.

42in pannys are EDTVs anyways

42in pannys are EDTVs anyways

That's what I'm aiming for for this purchase.

That's what I'm aiming for for this purchase.

then ull be very very happy with it!

then ull be very very happy with it!

I'll be happier if I can find the 42 at a Costco around Boston so I can 1) compare the price to what I can get online and 2) decided if the differences are worth it. :)

42in pannys are EDTVs anyways
The Enfield CT Costco has the 42" Panny EDTV. Also had the 50" Panny HDTV and plenty of those 42" Pioneer that has the coupon deal going until tomorrow.

The Enfield CT Costco has the 42" Panny EDTV. Also had the 50" Panny HDTV and plenty of those 42" Pioneer that has the coupon deal going until tomorrow.

That's a start at least. I'm assuming at the worst case, the Costco's would have the new TH60 model come April.

Anyone else in the Boston/New England area have any sightings?

Which would you buy, the Costco Panny PM50U or the upcomming Costco Vizio 42HDTV ?

I'm a little confused regarding Sear's price match policy. According to the policy posted on their website, it states that they will price match only local stores and/or internet prices from companies with local B&M presence (100 miles according to customer service)
Now, I search the forums and read about ppl that had Sears price match prices from Butterfly photo, and other internet-only stores like that. I called customer service and they told me that they will not match internet only stores.

Anybody had luck getting sears to match internet only prices?

Im looking for a 42hp95
The 42HP95 can be had starting tomorrow at Sears for ****. Running 3 days. I think I will be picking up one, if I can find some good reviews on it.

B

Don't hold your breath on that Toshiba 42HP95 price in todays flyers. If you go to their website the add mentions that price as AFTER the $600 savings. Might be worth a shot if the store is close by but I suspect no one will be getting the unit at the flyers price.

anyone know what LCDs and plasmas Costco carries that aren't on their website? I know they have Vizio for example.

Don't forget, no prices please.

anyone know what LCDs and plasmas Costco carries that aren't on their website? I know they have Vizio for example.

Don't forget, no prices please.

It seems to vary by store and locale. The Panasonic 42 has been reported in some stores (still looking for one near Boston) which is not on the site. The only real way to know is to check out your local store.

I'm looking to buy the 42HP95 in the next few days. Does Sears have a promotion on it this weekend?

Which one of these at Costco has 1080p?

Does anyone have any experience/knowledge with Sams Club TV returns? Do they offer anything similar to costco? I have not been able to find much written about this. Sams Club does claim 100% Member Satisfaction.

I am a Sams club member and planning to purchase a plasma in the near future. Based on what I have read, I am leaning towards joining Costco (200 miles away) and making my purchase there when the time is right. This is going to be a huge pain considering I have a Sams club less than a mile from my house, but I am willing to make the drive for some peace of mind.

Also, I have read alot about Costco coupons for TV purchases. Once you are a member, do you receive all these offers in the mail? Are they generally good for a few days, a week, or a month?

I read a few pages back that you must maintain your Costco membership in order to make a return as opposed to just re-enrolling if there is a defect a year and a half later. Is this a fact?

Lastly, anyone have any experience with Plasma TVs and American Express? I have heard some good reports in the past about returning items purchased with AMEX cards, but I have yet to do any thorough research regarding how much they can help with a plasma.


Thanks

Brian

Don't hold your breath on that Toshiba 42HP95 price in todays flyers. If you go to their website the add mentions that price as AFTER the $600 savings. Might be worth a shot if the store is close by but I suspect no one will be getting the unit at the flyers price.
You're right.. However, I did take the ad into bbuy and they came down considerably to try to match the price. Lower than the true Sears price. It just wasn't low enough for the wife. Ah well..

b

(sorry about posting the price before. just learning to read, still working on following directions too)

I wanted to make a couple of statements. First I went to Sams Club today to look at the Philips 42PF7320A and they were of course out of stock. The guy said they were expecting 4 more to come in. I checked the Sams Club site today and they have taken that TV off of the website which tells me they may stop carrying it.

I also asked about the return policy and he said it was 60 days but they have a satisifaction guarentee policy so they really will let you return it whenever. Which sounds the same as Costco.

I read a few pages back that you must maintain your Costco membership in order to make a return as opposed to just re-enrolling if there is a defect a year and a half later. Is this a fact?



I have seen members reference this as fact but I have never seen any official documentation on this and there is nothing within the text of the "100% Satisfaction" guarantee that requires this. I can understand that it might be a little more complicated if your membership is not active at a point in time that they attempt to pull up your receipt on their computer system to verify the return info, but as long as you have the receipt, I don't see how they could legally deny the return.

The Panny PM50U's are in my local Costco as well. I bought mine on line 3 weeks ago, replaced my 43" Pio.

Great PQ/Set if you don't care about tuner/PIP etc.

Would have pursued the 50" 8UK as I like it's minimalist looks better, but I'm a Costcoholic
due to their return policy. Gives me tremendous peace of mind.

How does the picture compare to the Pio 43"? I have the Pio 43, and would like to move up to a 50...I've been looking at the Vizio, waiting for the Maxent 50, and now the Panny. I think the picture on the 43 looks great, except that the black bars in letterbox are not that black...

Has anyone had any experience with Best Buy's EW, good or bad? Here's my problem: I purchased a Panasonic TH-42PD50U on 12/14/05. It worked fine until 2/4/06, at which time it lost power. I reported to BB warranty, who in turn referred me to an authorized Panasonic repairer. (I wouldn't have left my dog in that repair shop, but that's another matter.) Initially, the blinking lights indicated a bad circuit board, which after 2 weeks, was replaced. That did not resolve the problem so a second circuit board was needed and ordered. The second one was on back order, and I am told that it will be 6-8 weeks before it is received.

I contacted the BB store manager about a replacement and was told that this could only be done if the warranty company (AIG) would expedite the "no-lemon" clause. I have conflicting info from AIG. One rep. says it is possible that this will be done, but another one said she could all but guarantee that it will not be approved.

What good is any warranty (and by the way, AIG says that the Panasonic mfg. warranty is primary for the first year) if you have to be without a $2200+ TV for a total of 8-10 weeks? Anybody got any suggestions or ideas or am I screwed?

This is usually one of the problems with the extended warranties. Not only do they usually not kick in until the MFR warranty expires, but then comes the finger pointing contest. Supposedly BB always advertises theirs as no questions asked kind of thing, but sounds like you're not getting that much.

If I were you, I'd take it up with BB. Start with a letter/call to the DM level or such and go from there.

I have a BB extended warranty. My Panny plasma needed repair after about 9 months so it was still under the Panny warranty. However I called BB and they took care of it though there problems getting a repairperson who knew plasmas. BB came out, looked at the problem, contacted Panasonic to send me a part for downloading firmware. When I received the part I called BB back and they sent a tech. This 2nd visit was where I had trouble getting a knowledgable tech but I persisted until I got the same tech who ordered the part.
My plasma was fixed.

PQ is as good as the pio or slighty i mean slighty less

Costco has Pioneer 4214. I debate to get that or wait for the Vizio in March. Which one is better in PQ? Thanks

Does anyone have any experience/knowledge with Sams Club TV returns? Do they offer anything similar to costco? I have not been able to find much written about this. Sams Club does claim 100% Member Satisfaction.

I am a Sams club member and planning to purchase a plasma in the near future. Based on what I have read, I am leaning towards joining Costco (200 miles away) and making my purchase there when the time is right. This is going to be a huge pain considering I have a Sams club less than a mile from my house, but I am willing to make the drive for some peace of mind.

Also, I have read alot about Costco coupons for TV purchases. Once you are a member, do you receive all these offers in the mail? Are they generally good for a few days, a week, or a month?

I read a few pages back that you must maintain your Costco membership in order to make a return as opposed to just re-enrolling if there is a defect a year and a half later. Is this a fact?


Lastly, anyone have any experience with Plasma TVs and American Express? I have heard some good reports in the past about returning items purchased with AMEX cards, but I have yet to do any thorough research regarding how much they can help with a plasma.


Thanks

BrianSam's probably has the best returns policy in the business. When asked, they state that they want you to be satisfied or something to that effect, instead of a certain time period. I had a friend, that returned a LCD that he had for between 60 and 90 days, without any problem. They just checked and made sure the set was not damaged and that the remote was included.
Also, the extended service warranties cost much less than at the other major dealers. And, If you have a plus membership, you get an extra years warranty free. For example, if you purchased an 1 extra year's extended warranty and have that kind of membership, you would end up with a 3 year warranty. The 1st year being the manufacturer's warranty, the 2nd being the extended warranty that you purchased and the 3rd being the free year.

Did anyone buy the 50x3 from Best Buy while it was on sale and with the 10% coupon? Did they deduct 10% from the full price, the "usual on-sale price," or did you actually get 10% off the extra low sale price?

And do you have any opinion of your new "monitor panel"?

Please reply by PM or email as I don't believe actual prices are allowed to be posted... thanks!

g@hoxnet.com
--Gary

Sam's probably has the best returns policy in the business. When asked, they state that they want you to be satisfied or something to that effect, instead of a certain time period. I had a friend, that returned a LCD that he had for between 60 and 90 days, without any problem. They just checked and made sure the set was not damaged and that the remote was included.
Also, the extended service warranties cost much less than at the other major dealers.
wrong. costco does. they dont even sell extended warranties because you can return the set whenever you want. 60 and 90 days is nothing, people on here have returned stuff after a year to costco with no problems.

wrong. costco does. they dont even sell extended warranties because you can return the set whenever you want. 60 and 90 days is nothing, people on here have returned stuff after a year to costco with no problems.

I returned a two year old akai HD-RPTV that died on me. They gave me a full refund in cash including tax. Asked what was wrong, I told them it was defective. No further questions. Took 5 minutes to wait in line and get money.

For those interested, the TH65PHD8UK is now available on the Costco site.

Just a heads up for anyone interested.

There's still at least a three week shipping time for the 50" 8UK. The other 50" Panasonic model on the costco site might be a better deal IMO.

the other 50 inch model IS a better deal...no boards to buy, comes with a stand, and is exactly the same glass and picture and has speakers built in (for those of us that dont constantly want the wear and tear on our home theater receiver).

Just a heads up for anyone interested.

I see the 65", but not the 50" 8UK. Is it already sold out?

the other 50 inch model IS a better deal...no boards to buy, comes with a stand, and is exactly the same glass and picture and has speakers built in (for those of us that dont constantly want the wear and tear on our home theater receiver).
the whole consumer vs commercial model debate is a huge one and better left for elsewhere. I will just briefly point out that, yes, the consumer model is a better choice for some people (as you've noted here), but also that the commercial may be better for others (more tweaking options, lack of speakers actually a plus for some, the flexibility of blades also a plus, etc.)

Excuse my ignorance... but I've seen the reference to "BLADES" several times on the boards.... What the heck is a "Blade" as it relates to these Televisions?

Thanks, Tim

A "blade" is the same concept as a board that is installed in a computer. The blades for the HDTV has different connection types and is installed in the back of the set into slots. If you ever added a modem or video card to a computer, it's the same idea.

Excuse my ignorance... but I've seen the reference to "BLADES" several times on the boards.... What the heck is a "Blade" as it relates to these Televisions?

Thanks, Tim
Think of them as expansion cards for the commercial plasmas that determine what types of inputs it will have. The Panny's have 4 slots I believe and come with at least a couple of blades pre-installed. This gives you more flexibility with what types of inputs your TV will have - such as installing two HDMI blades or whatever. See Bruzzi's Panasonic Plasma FAQ that's stickied here for more details.

I see the 65", but not the 50" 8UK. Is it already sold out?

Same question here. I can see the stunning 65" but not the 50"?

Same question here. I can see the stunning 65" but not the 50"?

Ignore me. Found it! For some reason Costco has it on the LCD section of the website.

Well, I'm the proud new father of a TH42PM50U. Went by Costco to look at some DVDRs last night, walked around the corner, and there's one sitting on a cart. It was right before close, so I didn't have time to ask why they all of a sudden had one. My fear was it was a return.

So, I go in as soon as they open this morning, find one of the guys in the know, and ask him how they come to have a 42 in when they haven't had one for a couple of months. He confirmed my worst fear, that it was a return. I expressed surprise that they had it on the floor and he said never used, it didn't fit where they wanted to put it.

So, he offers to (said he needed to anyway) hook it up and check things out. We open it, I immediately notice the power cord was never even unwrapped which helped out a bit. We rolled it over so we could put an HD feed into it and fired her up. Beautiful picture, all looks good. I couldn't remember how to hit the menu to check hours (or if it's possible on this model), but with the cord never opened, that put me at ease.

I pointed out so stains and spots on the front. At first I feared they had used something that stripped it a bit. I pointed them out to him, and he said he'd knock some of the price if I wanted to try and, it'd still be backed by Costco's guarantee. Seemed like a win win for me, so I took it. He knocked I guess about 10% off. I probably could have fussed a bit more, but was already in happy happy joy joy mode so...

Got the thing home hooked up and looking great out of the box. Flattend all picture settings to 0 for now. Haven't even tried a calibration yet, just wanted to take it out of torch mode.

As for the spots, a little filtered water on a t-shirt and about 20 seconds later, they're all gone.

I think I'd still ike the 8UK a little more (smaller bezel and all), but for the added peace of mind Costco brings to the scene, I'm a happy boy!!!

Ignore me. Found it! For some reason Costco has it on the LCD section of the website.


You are correct, Sir. I now see the Panasonic Professional Series 50" HDTV Plasma in the LCD section.

Hey Costco, Why is the Professional model the same price as the Consumer model?

I joined Costco the other day so I expect to buy my next display there.

Will Costco email me if they're having a sale or would I need to keep checking in on them to see if they've lowered any prices?

Thanks

I joined Costco the other day so I expect to buy my next display there.

Will Costco email me if they're having a sale or would I need to keep checking in on them to see if they've lowered any prices?

Thanks

Yes, they will come to your house, refund your money and ask if you're happy with all the mechandise.

Just kidding, they are going to send you a coupon wallet. Once in a while, they hand out coupons at the stores.

I know that the stand is an option, but sometimes costco adds accessories to their products. Being that it is shown in the photo with the 8UK, and not stated anywhere that it is not included, do you think that it is? Wishfull thinking?

You are correct, Sir. I now see the Panasonic Professional Series 50" HDTV Plasma in the LCD section.

Hey Costco, Why is the Professional model the same price as the Consumer model?
8uk has free shipping. So it is 199 less thank PM50U

not if you buy the 50u in their stores...which all the ones ive see have it now.

I would wait a few more weeks for the 06 models as msrp is lower and closer to what costco is selling for now

its no a few more weeks. from what everyone i saying, its months. hopefully this avs forum p.b. works out.

Does anyone know what blades come standard on the Costco 8UK? And is there 1 additional slot available?

And, where can you get the blades and how much is msrp?

The 8UKs come with a component, composite, and s-video input (and possibly rgb). Blades can be ordered from online vedors or direct from Panasonic. The unit basically has 3 slots. Some blades can only go in two slots, and some can go in any of the 3, so you have to pay attention to your desired configuration.

The 8UKs come with a component, composite, and s-video input (and possibly rgb). Blades can be ordered from online vedors or direct from Panasonic. The unit basically has 3 slots. Some blades can only go in two slots, and some can go in any of the 3, so you have to pay attention to your desired configuration.

Thanks,

I guess one needs to take the cost of boards into consideration. For instance, the MSRP on an HDMI terminal is $145 (from Panasonics website). Although, the connections are more configurable, overall there are less connections.

I dont see the 508uk on the site anymore... Interesting.

it was on there for a few hours if I am correct

it was on there for a few hours if I am correct
I saw it this morning under LCD tvs and now it is gone...

Yeah it was, I called and the said it was sold out and they were not sure if they'd be getting anymore.

Yeah it was, I called and the said it was sold out and they were not sure if they'd be getting anymore.
Not surprised..with that price and free shipping they must have flown of the virtual "shelf".

I dont see the 508uk on the site anymore... Interesting.

It's back in the LCD section.

I didn't know where to post this, but it seems there is a lot of general consumer interest in this thread. Article about rebates and the fraud and difficulty in getting your money back.

http://moneycentral.msn.com/content/Savinganddebt/consumeractionguide/P57658.asp?GT1=7827

Note that Best Buy is going to eliminate rebates in 2007 and one of the interviewees in the article complained that that could lead to higher prices.

Oh well, this stuff is full of fraud anyway. I've had nothing but grief with rebates. Glad to see them diminishing.

Note: CompUSA was one of the worst. Consistent with my experience with them.

I am A Costcoholic:

When I saw the 50" Panny 8UK on sale after I bought the PM 50 u I thought about taking it back.

I did not. BUT....Think about this...and I'm 56 years old and care about what happens to you young turks. Let me share with you the meaning of life:


1) Never buy whole life....
2) You can never have too strong a grip in golf
3) When it comes to relationships, it really boils down that cheap physical ****.

This forum is great....enjoy your excitement...LCD is great in bright rooms but really sucks for SD...

Buy a plasma and get the largest screen you can afford....at least a 50"

My wife is in Carmel tonight with my step daughter who looks like Elizabeth Hurley.

And I'm watching goats have sex on Discovery HD because it's in HD!!

wow lol

Many of the pictures of the Panasonic TH-65PHD8UK that I have found on the Internet show it mounted on a pedestal stand including the picture on the Costco homepage.
Does anyone know if the pedestal stand comes with the TH-65PHD8UK from Costco or Newegg?

Threads Merged!

Dave

UPDATE: something happened to the threads, I was replying to "Costco's Philips 32" LCD" thread... SD played just as well as the Sharp does.

I just recently bought this set and I really like it. It has its quirks however.

the good:
1. picture looks great out of the box (vs. my 26" sharp aquos which I spend lots of time to get the picture look right - not so happy about that)

2. it has only one RF input where you connect you cable / antenna. It will receive all clear digital channels plus the analogs; better than the sharp which gives you three separate RF inputs you have to do something tricky to receive both digital and analog channels and it still doesn't work right. I initially split my cable input into both the analog and the digital cable RF inputs (per sharp's manual). It did find the digital channels, however, the sharp (LC-26D6U) will freeze up and sometime turn on by itself - appears to be it's digital tuner is not happy with the signal.

3. It automatically fill the whole screen up that is a plus. Many brands advertise that it's wide screen to give you the impression that you will be able to watch your movies without any black bars across, but they do not mention that many movies are out in a different format than 16x9 and they don't scale to the whole tv screen. You'll end up with feeling "dang I wish they could use the extra space", the philip solves that very well. That being said, I am afraid its constantly rescaling engine may fail quickly since it's always working for different tv formats - So I hard set it to wide format.

4. very good PC connect support (you can go by hdmi, or via RGB-HV). PC resolution supported via HDMI are : vga 640x480, SVGA 800x600, XGA 1280x768 (UPDATE: it appears xga=1024x768 only, I believe it's a typo of Philip's manual to state XGA 1280x768 because when I set to that res, it does not take it, but 1024x768 works) all at 60 Hz. This is great as you don't have to guess your settings like the Sharp LC26D6U which is a pain to get your pc to hook up with.

5. PIP (very nice)

6. automatic clock setting

The Quirks:
1. it doesn't provide an analog input for your pc sound. it assumes you have a pc card that outputs digital signal (in the case you use a HDMI input, and a analog sound card) you can't get your sound to the TV.

Best bang for the bucks. The Sony in Costco costs $200 more and it doesn't have HD tuner build it, pictures are just comparable. Forget Sony and Sharp (leave them in the dust, let their arrogance pay).

I just recently bought this set and I really like it.

What model is this? How well does it handle standard definition? Thanks

I know that the stand is an option, but sometimes costco adds accessories to their products. Being that it is shown in the photo with the 8UK, and not stated anywhere that it is not included, do you think that it is? Wishfull thinking?

Confirmation from costco... the stand is included on the 8UK. I ordered one on Saturday after they got a few more back in stock (8)

---

Dear Matt,

Thank you for e-mailing costco.com.

The item comes with the triangular stand that is pictured with the item.
I apologize for the confusion.

Please contact me if you have any further questions or concerns. Thank you.

Sincerely,
Christy B
E-commerce customer service
customerservice@costco.com

What are the other differences between the 65" Commercial ( 8UK ? )panny plasma that Costco has as opposed to the "Consumer" model.

I have read the thing about the "Blades". And I think I read something about "No speakers". True ?

Anything else?

Thanks, Tim

A few weeks ago I purchased a Dell W5001c plasma television and a Chief PNR-2540 Dual Arm Swing Mount. I installed the Chief Mount and attached the Dell TV. For the most part everything went perfectly.

Like many others, I am returning the Dell Television due to its substandard picture and performance and am planning on purchasing a new Panasonic model from Costco. The Costco Panny model number is TH-50PM50U.

My question is, has any of you hung a 50PM50U on a Chief mount? When I emailed Chief, the response I got was

"...we think the PSB2053 bracket will work, but have not been able to verify it. The PSB2053 works with various Panasonic models.

The other option would be the PSBU (universal). We are fairly certain it will work, but you may need to purchase longer bolts. Once again, we have not been able to verify it."

What would also be helpful is if anyone could possibly measure the distance between the mounting points for me. I would certainly appreciate it. Just don't want to waste money, time and shipping $ on this.

I did see on the Panasonic website where the wall-mount accessories listed for the PM50U are the same as several models such as the TH-50PX500U. One could infer that the Chief bracket would also be dually compatible. HOWEVER, if the panasonic brackets are infinitely adjustable, this might not be the case...i.e...it doesn't mean that the PM50U has the exact mounting bolt pattern as the 500U.

With regard to the universal mount...that would actually be a better option if I were to upgrade PDP's in the future. However, Chief's confidence level on compatiblity of the universal bracket was not 100% either.

Thanks in advance for any help you can provide.

FYI.... I was at Sears last weekend and they were having a "sale" on their televisions. So I started taling to a salesman who pointed out a posted sign and informed me that Sears now charges a 15% re-stocking fee for any television that is returned, regardless of the reason.

He went on to explain that this keeps people from "renting" televisions.

Well,, this is actually contrary to the Law in my state (Maryland) where a consumer can return any product within a "reasonable" time if the product is defective.

But... in any event.... I can't imagine many people buying from Sears with this new policy when BB, CC, Costco, Sams and BJ's have no such policy.

Why run the risk of having to pay $300-$500 or more to return a television set if it just plain out stinks!

The sales guy also claimed that "everybody is charging this now". I checked... he is wrong !

Tim

Hi. Hopefully this is the correct place for this. I have a tweeter and best buy about 150 yards away from each other and about 4 miles from my house. I've settled on a pioneer elite 43" plasma (Pro 930) and price will be the same at both.

salespeople at both were great.

It is now time to pick.

Tweeter appears to do their own warranty work with their own techs who come to your house, $700 for 5 years.

Best Buy also says they do the same, 500 for 4 years, but they offer 'surge protection' which the others don't .

both say they have local knowledgable techs, no hassle, etc. etc. etc.

has ANYONE had expeience with either, or knowledge of any substantial differences???

skiguy

well having a friend that works at BB, he says... i know some of the BB 'techs' aren't really that great

Just checking to see if you can return TV's here like you can at Costco?

Talk to your local SAMS return counter person. As far as I know it is the same as costco.

Where did all the Pannys go from the Costco site?? Cant find the 65 or the 50.

B

The 50" is back! It keeps bouncing on and off the site. But im very happy as I just ordered one. Now cant wait til it arrives!
Thanks for everyones help!

Wow are we gonna post evertime its back.. give those people who take the time to look a chance. :D

I also just pulled the proverbial trigger on the 508UK when I saw it pop up. And to think it only took 2 years of lurking to pull the trigger.

and youre all overpaying, as it appears that TVA has them in stock, and for less than ******.

and youre all overpaying, as it appears that TVA has them in stock, and for less than ******.

yeh but can you return it for any reason to tva for a full refund 5-10 years from now?

Thank's so much for the Costco heads up on the 50phd8uk. I ordered on 2-25-06 because someone on this board was nice enough to let everyone know that it was posted. My order is still processing and I will post when I receive shipping info. For the other's that ordered before me it would be great to find out how long it took till you received tracking info and then how long till the knock at the door. I wish other electronic vendors would come to the plate with Costco's return policy. The piece of mind you have knowing that if anything for any reason happens to your purchase 5, 10, years from now and you simply take it back and walk out with cash in your hand is simply amazing. This forum has helped me so much I will try to share my experience with the 508uk when it arrives.

and youre all overpaying, as it appears that TVA has them in stock, and for less than ******.

If you add in shipping and a 4 year extended warranty from TVA, you could purchase the 8Uk from Costco and have enough to purchase an OPPO DVD player.

and youre all overpaying, as it appears that TVA has them in stock, and for less than ******.

Then of course there's the ease of returns in case of problems and the fact that a stand is included in the price (TVA is seperate).

and youre all overpaying, as it appears that TVA has them in stock, and for less than ******.

As I posted in the TH-50PHD8UK thread...

I got it from Costco at their price as by the time I factored in a stand, shipping and extended warranty TVA's price was no longer cheaper.

The piece of mind with Costco's return policy was the final push for me.

The costco 50" panny 8uk comes with a stand?

yes it does

yes it does

Nice, I will have to jump on that next time it comes out on the website. Is it the current circular base stand?

Triangular stand -- as pictured.

sceptre 42" lcd now available from costco. Now accepting orders!

Thank's so much for the Costco heads up on the 50phd8uk. I ordered on 2-25-06 because someone on this board was nice enough to let everyone know that it was posted. My order is still processing and I will post when I receive shipping info. For the other's that ordered before me it would be great to find out how long it took till you received tracking info and then how long till the knock at the door. I wish other electronic vendors would come to the plate with Costco's return policy. The piece of mind you have knowing that if anything for any reason happens to your purchase 5, 10, years from now and you simply take it back and walk out with cash in your hand is simply amazing. This forum has helped me so much I will try to share my experience with the 508uk when it arrives.

I also took the reccomendation from this site and purchased on 2/22/06. However I still wonder if the 50px60/600 series models are going to be any better functionally, I don't believe cosmetically? I did receive shipping confirmation but it only displays a delivery date range between 3/3 to 3/17?
The shipper is Homedirect USA?
The shipping information shows a pickup range between 2/24 and 3/2?
It was picked up on 2/27 at Atlanta,GA.
I am in PA so I don't know when to expect it This week maybe or next?
Unlike the usual carriers(UPS, FED EX) where they give the delivery date and the location where your package is at all times in transit.

I am wall mounting and like the fact that the stand is with the set.
I can try the set and figure out wiring etc away from the wall.
I am a big PIP fan so I hope it works o.k. on this set.
I plan on using Comcast HD as one tuner and a VCR as a second.(I know this a HD set why look at SD but there are times when I try and switch during commercials on sports between two channels).
Can anyone comment on the PIP quality if this set.
The manual says the PIP circuitry may not process the image as well as the main screen?
So far I am happy with the purchase.
Also I know Costco has an unlimited warranty but is that if you continue to pay the yearly membership fee?
If you do not continue your membership I guess you loose the warranty?
Is this correct.
I will let everyone know if I get anymore shipping updates.

Lenny

I'm unfamiliar with Costco's stocking practices. I don't see one Vizio monitor listed on their website. Do the individual warehouses typically stock a lot of products not found on their website? We've got a Costco 50 miles up the road, but I've never even been in there. Looking at how they've cut all their XBox 360 prices by $5 over everyone else, I have to wonder if they don't have equally aggressive pricing across the board. I'm starting to get the idea that a $50 membership fee might not be such a bad idea.

I'm unfamiliar with Costco's stocking practices. I don't see one Vizio monitor listed on their website. Do the individual warehouses typically stock a lot of products not found on their website? We've got a Costco 50 miles up the road, but I've never even been in there. Looking at how they've cut all their XBox 360 prices by $5 over everyone else, I have to wonder if they don't have equally aggressive pricing across the board. I'm starting to get the idea that a $50 membership fee might not be such a bad idea.

Sorry for chasing you over here - just trying to keep the threads clean!

Yes - the warehouses have a lot of products not available online. If you look at the bottom of any listing on costco.com, they have the following fine print:
Costco.com offers merchandise which complements our warehouse product selection. Therefore, most items available on our web site are unique to costco.com.

Furthermore, each warehouse differs in what it carries - even warehouses in the same general area (I have 5 within 15 miles of my house, and they are not consistent).

Sorry for chasing you over here - just trying to keep the threads clean!

No problem... I appreciate that. I really should have known better.

Yes - the warehouses have a lot of products not available online. If you look at the bottom of any listing on costco.com, they have the following fine print:


Furthermore, each warehouse differs in what it carries - even warehouses in the same general area (I have 5 within 15 miles of my house, and they are not consistent).

That's interesting... I guess I need to make a trip up there and have a look. Do they let you come in and tour the joint as a prospective member? I'd like to know if they have the entire JVC D-ILA 720p line, as sort of a barometer of what I might can expect.

My current shopping list is:

2006 (52G787) JVC D-ILA, which is not out yet
Vizio PDP42 Plasma, also *apparently* not out yet.
Akai 46" LED Rear projection, also not out yet

42" might be cutting it close in my living room. Our main sofa is ~11 feet from the screen. The charts say I need 50-52". I can compromise for cash though.... $1,900 is going to be my limit, or so it currenty appears.

Walmart has a AKAI 42" ED and HD, also a 50" and if interested they also have PIO PDP 42-A3HD. Not sure if thats the AKAI your looking for.

Just a warning to anyone out there shopping around for a Big Screen television.

According to the salesman, Sears will charge you a 15% Re-Stocking Fee if you return a television, or most any other electronic item, REGARDLESS of the time frame or the reason, even if the item is defective, even if it's the same day, even if the item is un-opened, even if the item is damaged.

I am shopping around for a 60" SXRD and visited Sears and saw the sign mounted to the cash register in the electronics dept. I asked the salesman about it, and he said the policy keeps people from "renting" televisions. he said that "everyone" was doing it, including BB, CC, Tweeter, etc, which IS NOT TRUE !

Just keep this in mind.... on a $4,000 television, the re-stocking fee would be $600.

To add insult to injury, their 5 year extended warranty costs $800.

I can hardly believe that Sears is able to sell to anyone with these things in mind.... but.... there's one born every minute.

Tim

if you want to buy from sears--just talk to the manager or owner of the store. I am sure these things can get waived rather easily. My local sears even let me pricematch a really cheap online price--about $600 below their listed price just with me talking and getting to know the owner. Of course--we had bought all of our appliances for our house from them in the past. Also--when we bought our washer/dryer--the washer didn't fit in our closet--it was already deliverred and opened. I just called them up and they deliverred a different one within a week--no restocking fee on the old one that didn't fit. Info might vary by store and location though...
JUC

The Sears near my work told me this when I purchased a 32 dollar item. I just laughed. But I do note that on my last purchase they werent saying that anymore.

isn't it against the law if they charge the fee when the item is damaged or defective?

I returned a 2005 Sharp Aquos 37" (matt black/fixed speakers) to sears a while ago. The 15% return fee only applied if the TV was used and not returned in 30 days in the orginal box with the orginal packaging materials and components. In this case it was unused (my wife didn't like how it looked) though the box was opened.

It's on the back of SEARs receipt. In my case, I didn't pay the fee (though I was sweating for a while).

You can thank the "Low-Lifes" that buy(?) a Tv before the Super Bowl ,etc.....then Return it a few days later !! :p

Walmart has a AKAI 42" ED and HD, also a 50" and if interested they also have PIO PDP 42-A3HD. Not sure if thats the AKAI your looking for.

Whoops... my bad - I meant "Vizio", not Akai (for the plasma at least).

I was at Costco while on vacation in Seattle, WA and say they had 5 of the P42HDTV's in stock. Has anyone picked up one of these yet?

I was at Costco while on vacation in Seattle, WA and say they had 5 of the P42HDTV's in stock. Has anyone picked up one of these yet?

Ah... so they do already have them in stock! I'm definitely making a trip to the Costco in Charlotte, NC tormorrow in investigate. I'll at least get a chance to look at the 50" version, maybe....

I have read most of this thread and I don't think anyone has mentioned that if you order direct fm. Panny (at MSRP), they give you a 10% discount for the first time you buy something after signing up (probably for their affinity credit card) AND are offering free shipping.
I haven't, yet, ordered from them since they aren't yet displaying the newer 06 models. This only applies to the consumer line, NOT the commercial line like the 8uk models.

...mike

I had to post this. I just cancelled a Maxent order, and this is the response, VERBATIM, that I received from Costco support:
Thank you for emailing costco.com

Hello

I have made an attment to cancell your order, if this order shipps
before we can cancell this will come to you

If that happens you can eather accept the order and take it to your
local store for a full refund or
refuse delivery, if you choose to refuse delivery, you have to contact
us to let us know, that you have refused delivey.
That way we know to refund your money. This process takes anywhere from
2-3 weeks.

Thank you for shopping at costco.com


Um...spellchecker?

I had to post this. I just cancelled a Maxent order, and this is the response, VERBATIM, that I received from Costco support:


Um...spellchecker?

You can't be serious!? That looks like the type of spelling and punctuation one would expect in an internet forum, not an official business communication :eek: Simply horrible!

Anyone have experience with the 32" Sony at Costco? I think it's a Bravia for like $$$. I'm not sure what model it is. My Costco has a limited selection of TVs and this was the only LCD TV to impress me, though it's out of my price range. I'm thinking about saving to pick it up later.

From what I learned this is equal to the 5050 model. The new Pioneer models (5060 equiv) are suppost to show up in Costco around March. (according to Costco employee.

Has anyone heard any new news on this? Would love to get my hands on a 6th gen pio from Costco.

Anyone interested in the Toshiba 42HP95? Sears has them and I think it would be worth checking out. I have been very pleased with mine!

Good luck!

D

just picked up an open box and wondering if anyone has this tv and can give me some setup tips
thanks
john

I was sitting in the chair tonite which happens to be closer to the Elite and noticed a blurry area on the PDP. Looking closely I saw a couple of pixels not behaving in that area. Took a quick look at the panel and see three more pixels in different areas of the panel having problems.

Tomorrow I'll try some test patterns to check for more, but right now it's not looking good for a new panel only a few weeks old.

I'm contemplating how to go about the return to BB/Magnolia and don't want to be without a set. It took a few weeks to get this one (after delays and much aggravation) and don't want to do the return without an immediate replacement to take with me.

What's been the return experience of other members with BB and/or Magnolia? I very rarely do returns and have never had to return a TV.

they give u a BAD time with plasma returns, exchanges are okay

It seems that Dell is very inconsistent in how it handles returns. I have been told a few different stories by Dell representatives on how plasma returns are handled within the 21-day return period:


I am responsible for all shipping costs back to Dell. If this had been true - which fortunately it wasn't - it would have cost me close to $700; I was told this by more than one Dell representative, but fortunately when I made the decision to return it anyways, I was told I was only responsible for $100 (see item two)
I am only responsible for a $100 fee which covers the third-party shipping back to Dell - all else is refundable
I am responsible for the $100 fee but the original $39 shipping fee is not refundable


So I am quite confused, and adding to this muddle is that others who have returned their plasma sets have been assessed no 3rd party shipping fees at all. To make matters more perplexing, Dell does not delineate on either their site or on my receipt just how shipping charges are handled for returns. Therefore I'd REALLY like to get a consensus on just who is paying what on the return shipping within the allowable return-for-refund period. As it stands now, I am assessed a $100 return fee plus a nonrefundable $39 for the initial shipping to me, plus $8 more for reasons Dell can't even explain.

I'm really curious about this as well, since I have an 1130 due to be delivered in another week from BBMag. Should I have some written pixel-perfect-type guarantee added to my receipt? I switched my order from Tweeter to BBMag in part because I felt more comfortable with BB in case of problems. What are others doing to ensure cooperation with dead pixels? Is it an issue with BBMag?

I would be doing an exchange and am within 30 days at this time.

Kidz, I purchased the warranty, but not until the sales guy agreed to write down that it covered any pixel defects. Not sure how much it would actually help if I had a problem. Since I'm still within 30days I think it won't matter but not looking forward to lugging it back to the store.

Can I exchange the PDP at any BB/Magnolia location? I want to make sure the store I return it to has one in stock for the exchange.

According to Best Buy policy, returns or exchanges can be made for any reason within 30 days of purchase. In the case of a return only, or an exchange made without a remote or other part, they can charge a restocking fee. Otherwise, there should be no fees, but you may have to wait.