"I had my TV shipped to my office in West Virginia and costco didnt charge me tax even though the billing address was in Ohio."

Sales tax is based on where the item is shipped, not where it is billed.

A co-worker said that all the HDTV's in the Waterbury CT Costco had a sign stating a 1 year limit on returns (similar to computer limitation). I didn't notice this Friday when I was in the Enfield CT Costco, but i didn't look very closely.

Has anyone else seen this to confirm it?

costco.com still only lists limitations on computers at 6 months. no tv limitations.

It seems as if the Piooneer PDP-50A5HD is reaching the end of its cycle @ Costco, does anyone know what model will be replacing it? When it will be available @ Costco, and for about what price?

I suppose this will be mostly for those who have been to Costco enough in the last month or two that they know what's on the shelf!

;)

Panasonic 42" or 50" commercial.

Brothers and Sisters,
I bought Philips 50" (50PF7220A/37) From Costco sometime in January.

The TV started acting up last week.

While watching TV it jumps to Menu screen. The sound is ok in the back-ground but since its showing the menu screen it does not display video. This happens anywhere from one second to 10 seconds. It Does not matter if I am watching DVD of composite, Off-Air or Sat of component.

I tried to power cycle but did not help.

Has anyone seen this problem? Any cure? what is RMA procedure? Any cusomter contact number?

Yes! Costco has agreed to do even exchange-but I want to let everyone know about this problem and see if anyone else has encountered this-so that rather than getting an even exchange I can get some other brand.

Regards,
-Red

Too bad they don't carry 'em at the Costco's here in So Cal! I'd really like to look at these compared to the 60u units!

(boo!)

General Costco Question:

Is there any rhyme or reason to the stock / models that costco.com & the B&M stores carry? Or is literally a crap shoot? I didnt know if there was a way to check out the current cycling inventory vs what might be coming down the line.

General Costco Question:

Is there any rhyme or reason to the stock / models that costco.com & the B&M stores carry? Or is literally a crap shoot? I didnt know if there was a way to check out the current cycling inventory vs what might be coming down the line.
In my experience, it's a crapshoot. Even stores in the same area (~15 miles apart in the same state) don't carry the same stock at the same time.

Yup - the website is a very poor indicator of what is available at the stores. You pretty much have to visit the store every week to catch some items. One day I stopped at the store about 50 miles north of me, and they had a fairly big display of the Pioneer 42" plasmas. The same day, I stopped at the store about 10 miles south of me - they had no Pioneers at all - not even a shelf tag. Go figure...

Brothers and Sisters,
I bought Philips 50" (50PF7220A/37) From Costco sometime in January.

The TV started acting up last week.

While watching TV it jumps to Menu screen. The sound is ok in the back-ground but since its showing the menu screen it does not display video. This happens anywhere from one second to 10 seconds. It Does not matter if I am watching DVD of composite, Off-Air or Sat of component.

I tried to power cycle but did not help.

Has anyone seen this problem? Any cure? what is RMA procedure? Any cusomter contact number?

Yes! Costco has agreed to do even exchange-but I want to let everyone know about this problem and see if anyone else has encountered this-so that rather than getting an even exchange I can get some other brand.

Regards,
-Red

See if your store has a panasonic TH-50PM50u, return yours for that model, dont waste your time with any other.

I've also after a yr realized that Costco's American Express Charges almost 30% interest!!!!!!! :eek:
I cant believe they would RIP OFF customers with such a high rate!!
Thats INSANE!!!
Monday it's paid off!!!!

Dell 42" plasma just went down in price w/ new verbiage...


On-site Exchange Service

Should your system require replacement under the Dell Limited Warranty1, your On-site Exchange Service will provide the following services: Shipment of replacement unit to customer location Dispatch of third-party technician to customer site to un-box replacement unit, replace the non-functioning unit, and / or installation Re-boxing and return shipment of non-functioning unit to Dell.

Plasma TV On-site Exchange provided via third-party contract with customer. Technician to re-pack and ship TV will be dispatched if exchange is necessary following phone-based troubleshooting. $100 service charge may be non-refundable. Availability varies. Other conditions apply. For complete details, visit www.dell.com/servicecontracts.

Did anyone else see the Sharp LC-45GD7U on the Costco website the other day? Then ***poof*** it's gone. What the heck?

Dell 42" plasma just went down in price w/ new verbiage...
The 50" also went down in price. I just received my 50" 2 weeks ago. Does Costco have a price match? I wrote to customer service and waiting for a reply.

Which do you recommend from Costco?Take into account the price differentials which I can't mention. Perhaps I can say the Vizio is the cheapest the Philips is $400 more and the Panny is is $600 more than that or $1000 more than the Vizio. Also keep in mind that I will never calibrate anything and just want a nice picture on at TV that will last awhile. Also the contrast ratio on the Panny is 3000 while it is 10,000 on the other two,(whatever that means) Philips 50PF7220A37 or Vizio P50HDM or Panasonic TH-50PHD8UK. Thank you for your valued opinions.

The 50" also went down in price. I just received my 50" 2 weeks ago. Does Costco have a price match? I wrote to customer service and waiting for a reply.
They have a 30-day price match policy.

They have a 30-day price match policy.Thanks. That is good to know. It was also listed to include an 8' HDMI cable. I don't have any HDMI devices yet, but I plan to get either an upconverting DVD player or maybe the HD-DVD player. Not sure if I want to wait for BR.

BTW, I don't know why all the negatives on the Dell. The picture looks great. I've got Comcast HDTV and it looks better than my old Philips 42" plasma. DVDs look much better. Even my HTPC looks much much better although I'm running it at 1280x768 which isn't even 16:9. Not sure how to get 1366x768 yet.

See if your store has a panasonic TH-50PM50u, return yours for that model, dont waste your time with any other.

I've also after a yr realized that Costco's American Express Charges almost 30% interest!!!!!!! :eek:
I cant believe they would RIP OFF customers with such a high rate!!
Thats INSANE!!!
Monday it's paid off!!!!

Huh? If I'm reading this disclosure correctly:
http://www66.americanexpress.com/cards/Fmacfservlet?csi=54/20/b/4/1139807656/113183711506/0/n

It looks like it is 29.24% if you are in default on your account. The footnotes say that "default" is defined as: "Your account is reviewed monthly and will be considered in default if minimum payments are not timely paid one time, or seriously in default if minimum payments are not timely paid two or more times, your account is overlimit three or more times, or your payment is returned by your bank or financial institution, in each case during any portion of the 12-month period ending with the Closing Date of the current billing period."

Anyway - I am one of those weird people who *never* pays credit card interest. I will use free money from places like Bestbuy or Lowe's - but it is ALWAYS paid-off before the interest charges start. Credit card interest is a nasty business, and I won't play.

For those who are interested in ordering from Costco...
I ordered an Panny 42" plasma, nearly a month ago. They (the shipping co. - handlers) can not find it. It has disappeared. Ugh.

Costco customer service, isn't. It takes nearly a week for an email reply and when I get it it's useless.

This is the last time I order anything from Costco.

Mistakes happen. This is obvious... but Costco should do what they can to help. They are doing nothing and waste my time while I wait for their useless response.

Ugh... :mad:

shane

That's a drag. Makes me wonder when they are going to get the consumer Panasonic Plasmas in the physical stores again. I sure would rather buy one that way!

That's a drag. Makes me wonder when they are going to get the consumer Panasonic Plasmas in the physical stores again. I sure would rather buy one that way!


Yuh... me too, but since I couldn't, I've wasted a month waiting for one that will never show up. Sorry... just irritated. Got my HD Cable installed yesterday and now it's just sitting at home with no one to play with. :o

shane

They have a 30-day price match policy.Incredibly, Costco replied to my email in 2 days. However, they wrote that the item isn't exactly the same - it now includes the 8' HDMI cable so the price match doesn't count!!!! Then they said to return the plasma and buy it online again. Can you believe that? It would be a PITA, but I just might do it for the $300 savings and cable.

In the past, I wouldn't feel right returning the TV for the money, but it has just been 2 weeks that I owned the thing and Costco suggested that is what I do. I still have the box, so it wouldn't be that tough.

I wouldn't feel bad at all. Anything within the price-match period is fair game, IMO.

I wouldn't feel bad at all. Anything within the price-match period is fair game, IMO.Just got off the phone with customer service and the guy couldn't believe they couldn't give me the money. After talking to his manager, it turns out Dell won't refund the price drop, but they will take back the plasma because that is the agreement with Costco. So again it was recommended (by Costco) to return the plasma and order another.

What a waste of time (and money), but sometimes you just have to play by the rules.

Just got off the phone with customer service and the guy couldn't believe they couldn't give me the money. After talking to his manager, it turns out Dell won't refund the price drop, but they will take back the plasma because that is the agreement with Costco. So again it was recommended (by Costco) to return the plasma and order another.

What a waste of time (and money), but sometimes you just have to play by the rules.ANOTHER UPDATE!!!! :)

The Costco guy just called me back because it didn't sit well with him. He called Dell and discovered there was a slight difference and the warranty wasn't the same 2 years. I couldn't tell from the ad what exactly the warranty difference was as it said Limited warranty1 exchange service2.

STILL!!! They are going to refund the $300 difference anyway :) .

So I am giving customer service a HUGE thumbs up and ONE HAPPY customer.

Pays to shop at Costco.

anyone know if costco is getting this tv anytime soon? Or of an equivalent 1080p lcd at costco?

went into my local CC last night and was looking for a 32" lcd. i came across an Sony Bravia XBR. This was the demo model and it was listed at (NOT ALLOWED). I asked the sales clerk to look it up for me and it was coming up at (NOT ALLOWED) so they are taking 2 cents off for the display model. He said that i can negotiate a price for it. How low do you think they will go since it should be already marked down from (NOT ALLOWED). Do you think that they will sell it for (NOT ALLOWED) Cash. I think if im like if you do this right now for (NOT ALLOWED) ill buy it. Does anyone else have any experience with Negotiating prices for a display LCD.

Thanks
Joopman

Your expectations are probably too high. I suspect you would be looking more at 10-15% - but who knows - it's worth a try. Cash means nothing to them - they have such low rates on credit card transactions that they aren't going to give you anything just for laying cash on them. I would try to get some free money financing - like 18-24 months at no interest. They would probably prefer you put it on a CC charge - as then there is the chance you might miss a payment and get whacked with high interest charges for the whole amount.

Costco has yet to carry the Westinghouse line. They carry the Sceptre brands, which are pretty much the competing lcd (same sizes, also 1080P).


Harper

Received my Costco magazine today and it looks like they're getting the Sony S-series line soon including the 32" and 40". Also they are getting the Sharp 45" lcd. But its not the 1080p its the 1366x768. Does anyone know when they expect to have these?

Costco has the 63" Samsung listed.

I just saw the Toshiba 50HP66 at my local Costco B&M (in Illinois). It was right next to the Panasonic 50PM50U and honestly I thought the Toshiba looked just a bit better (sharper), even though they both had an excellent PQ. They were showing Madagascar I think, but the Toshiba has more features for less money. Just an FYI if anyone is looking for the Toshiba your Costco might have them.

Update: The Costco Toshiba is actually model number 50HP16 but it looks basically the same as the HP66. Not sure if all the specs are exactly the same but just wanted to clarify that.

COSTCO Maxent 50X3 50" HDTV Plasma w/HDMI

[EDIT]Purchased mine at Santa Rosa, CA Costco. They sold 4 units within 2-hours. Rohnert Park has zero.

[EDIT]

Hi.

A Costco near me had the Pioneer 50", but I was still doing my research. Went back and it's gone, and all the stores in the DC area are out of them (43" models available, though, at certain stores).

Every rep told me that it's been removed from the system. Does that mean that Costco is going to offer the 7th generation Pioneer sets mentioned in the thread further down the main page? If the set is released in June, how long till Costco carries it?

I bought a 37" Vizio to tide me over until I get my Pioneer. Does anyone have the inside scoop when Costco will offer Pioneers again?

Thanks.

Does anyone know exactly how the policy works at Costco, regarding price drops, and getting refunded? I noticed a price drop about 60 days after my purchase (but I hadn't been back to Costco in those 60 days), I asked briefly at the service center desk, and they said the policy is 30 days, but I didn't think to ask if you need to return in person within 30 days of your purchase date.

If I bought a TV on the 1st, and the price drops on the 29th, but I'm not there till the following month, would I still be eligible for the refund? anyone know?

And also, how could I find out when that price drop ocurred? Should they be able to tell me that?

I don't know their policy, but MY policy (if I was a retailer) would be that you are SOL if you don't request the price match within the time period. Think about it - why should I give you money back months later just because you heard the price had dropped a while ago? Why am I responsible for keeping track of any time I have ever changed the price? It should be much simpler than that - if you bring me a receipt within 30 days that is less than what I am selling it for now, I'll fix you up - but after that - you snooze, you lose!

I believe costco's policy causes problems, its too good. I love costco and I'd just talk to them about your situation and they'll respond.

My e-mail exchange with Costco on the subject of Price Matching beyond 30 days


============================================================

Dear "Gandu",

Thank you for e-mailing Costco Wholesale.

I am sorry, yet there is not a written policy regarding this. Most
warehouse will honor up to 30 days and after that you must return and
re-purchase the item.

Sincerely,

Taylor S.
customerservice@costco.com

-----Original Message-----
From: IMCReply
Sent: Monday, November 28, 2005 1:27 PM
To: Taylor Stroud
Subject: Warehouse Questions or Suggestions


Note this message was submitted through the costco.com web site customer
suggestion page on 11/28/2005 12:00:00 AM at 13:25:10.6702426.
=========================================================
Comment/Suggestion/Request/Question Text:

What is Costco's policy regarding Price Matching it's own
merchandise?

I purchased a Plasma TV from Costco on October 9th. While in the store
yesterday I noticed the price on the same TV has been reduced by $200.
The Customer Service rep I spoke to in the store, advised there is a 30
day price match policy. Since my purchase was 50 days ago, I did not
qualify. He was unable to provide a written copy of the policy and I
could not find it on the website. It seemed to me that it was an
arbitrary decision made on the spur of the moment.

I am aware of other Costco members who have received a price match far
beyond 30 days. Is there a Costco-wide policy regarding price matching
your own merchandise?

=========================================================

According to Costco Magazine, 45" Sharp Aquos LCD TV coming to warehouses "this month". The model number is LC-40C45U. I suspect the number is transposed in the online version of the magazine and it should be LC-45C40U ??. Item #145140. Is this a Costcoized version of the LC-45D40U???

Iv'e had my costco 42' vizio just over a month now but have decided to return, but for no particular reason-(i want a "50)-Am I pushing my luck by delaying the return and holding on to it for a few months? Will I be required to site some particular defect in order to return? :confused: ANYONE...

I just saw the Toshiba 50HP66 at my local Costco B&M (in Illinois). It was right next to the Panasonic 50PM50U and honestly I thought the Toshiba looked just a bit better (sharper), even though they both had an excellent PQ. They were showing Madagascar I think, but the Toshiba has more features for less money. Just an FYI if anyone is looking for the Toshiba your Costco might have them.

Update: The Costco Toshiba is actually model number 50HP16 but it looks basically the same as the HP66. Not sure if all the specs are exactly the same but just wanted to clarify that.

I just saw this at Costco also. It's the 50HP16. I find this very odd because Toshiba just released the 50HP66 and this display looks identical with the same features. It's usually months before they release a warehouse version. Plus, the price is lower.

Iv'e had my costco 42' vizio just over a month now but have decided to return, but for no particular reason-(i want a "50)-Am I pushing my luck by delaying the return and holding on to it for a few months? Will I be required to site some particular defect in order to return? :confused: ANYONE...

leiff, if you do not intend to keep the Vizio 42 the sooner you return it the better it is for you and for Costco. It might be labeled as an open box item and some other customer might have themselves a real good buy assuming there is nothing wrong with it.

If I remember correctly, some Costco employees posted on this forum that Costco keeps track of your return habits and frequency and will take back your membership if they believe abuse is prevalent.

No, I do not believe you have to have any reason other than "not 100% satisfied" to return any item at Costco. At least that was my experience.

I just saw this at Costco also. It's the 50HP16. I find this very odd because Toshiba just released the 50HP66 and this display looks identical with the same features. It's usually months before they release a warehouse version. Plus, the price is lower.

I just went again today and saw the Toshiba - it looked great to me with the HD feed, but others were saying how they were returning their HP66s because SD looked blotchy and horrible and things like that. Not being able to see an SD feed I couldn't get an idea for it but the HD looked just as good as the Panasonic right next to it. I really couldn't tell a difference in the PQ. And yeah, the Toshiba is a pretty good deal at Costco for all the features it has. Very tempting...

I'm not sure exactly whether, or how, I should post this question, so the moderators should feel free to delete it if it is inappropriate. I figured this thread would be the most acceptable place to do it, if it were indeed kosher.

There is a Russian internet retailer by the name of VIP Sales Corp. - but I know that buying from Russia must be a very risky endeavor.

I wrote to them a few questions and they replied promptly.

1. They only accept Western Union payments.

2. They won't do escrow, but they will ship before payment and provide a FedEx tracking number. After that, they want payment within 12 hours, plus another 7% for doing things that way. Of course this payment is well before you get the intem into your hot little hands and you could just receive a box of rocks from FedEx.

3. In the case of a Pansonic plasma, they provide with it the Panasonic 3-year extended warranty, which they claim is honored by Panasonic internationally.

4. They only sell NIB items - no B grade or refurbished.

Smells fishy, but they sure do have one nice, legitimate-looking internet site and, as I said, their prices are lower than rock bottom, so it's at least worth some investigation.

I won't buy from the place unless I get a positive recommendation from another customer, so - has anyone bought anything from this place, and, if so, were you satisfied?

Thanks

My opinion is:
VIP Sales Corp does not appear in the store listings at resellersratings.com, so I suggest you not buy from them. Regardless of the deal/price, it's just not worth the risk, and you have no built-in safety net in case things go bad. If they accepted major credit cards, then it would be a little less risky, but I still would never do it.

For most people, an HDTV is the third most expensive consumer item you will buy, so stick with the reputable dealers, stores, and internet sites. If you work with them, you can get great value and service for your hard-earned money.
Good luck.

1. They only accept Western Union payments.

Do a little research in to fraud on eBay. The #1 sign of a fraudulent eBay auction is the requirement to pay via Western Union.

Once you tell Western Union to send the money it's gone, you have zero chance of ever seeing it again. Zero. You might as well take the money and throw it out of your car window at 60 mph.

Don't do it.

Your initial hunch is correct...if it sounds to good to be true...

Recently at CC the salesman put down the new Panny TH-42PX60U 42".
Consumer reports rated the old model a best buy (the 42px50U 42").

Can anyone adress this issue?

The salesman was touting the Hitachi over the new Panny, saying the changes between the high rated 50 and the 60 were for the worse.

In other chat rooms I've heard the new "60" well reviewed.

Any ideas here?

I'm not sure exactly whether, or how, I should post this question, so the moderators should feel free to delete it if it is inappropriate. I figured this thread would be the most acceptable place to do it, if it were indeed kosher.

There is a Russian internet retailer by the name of VIP Sales Corp. - but I know that buying from Russia must be a very risky endeavor.

I wrote to them a few questions and they replied promptly.

1. They only accept Western Union payments.

2. They won't do escrow, but they will ship before payment and provide a FedEx tracking number. After that, they want payment within 12 hours, plus another 7% for doing things that way. Of course this payment is well before you get the intem into your hot little hands and you could just receive a box of rocks from FedEx.

3. In the case of a Pansonic plasma, they provide with it the Panasonic 3-year extended warranty, which they claim is honored by Panasonic internationally.

4. They only sell NIB items - no B grade or refurbished.

Smells fishy, but they sure do have one nice, legitimate-looking internet site and, as I said, their prices are lower than rock bottom, so it's at least worth some investigation.

I won't buy from the place unless I get a positive recommendation from another customer, so - has anyone bought anything from this place, and, if so, were you satisfied?

ThanksI'm going to Russia this summer, so give me their address and I'll check them out.

Anyone know when you can order or buy the LC45D40U from costco?[EDIT]. But i would much rather order it from costco than compusa.

Thanks

Just wanted to confirm: Is there any limit on when you can return online purchases to Costco or does it work the same as in-store purchases?

I'm going to Russia this summer, so give me their address and I'll check them out.

MOCKBA,
That's a very nice offer. If the place is indeed legit, I'll be surprised and pleased.

ViP Sales Corp.
Moscow, 121087
Bagratyonovskaya street 7
Russia

Coincidentally, eBay item 9721592448 is being sold by a US seller, but the auction lists the VIP web site as the supplier. The auction indicates in at least two places that PayPal is accepted, but on closer inspection, this seller only accepts money orders or personal checks. No Western Union is mentioned.

If you check out the feedback histories of some of the bidders, many are very recently-joined eBay members, and the feedback history of the buyer doesn't exactly inspire confidence.

The only way I'd bid is if the seller beforehand agreed to use a reputable escrow service as the middle man in the transaction and I intend to contact the seller to ask that question. If he doesn't agree to it, then likely it is quite an elaborate international scam.

What you find out in Russia may very well clear all this up.

Have you been to Russia before and, if so, do businesses there commonly accept credit cards?

Again, thanks for the offer.

Western Union payments on an auction from Russia is a HUGE warning flag. There is absolutely no way I would take that deal. Western Union payment is CASH UP FRONT - no recourse whatsoever. As long as the guy on the other end has the correct transfer number, he can walk-in to the WU office and collect the cash. This is an old scam:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3078745/

Think about it - why would someone in Russia be able to buy a plasma screen AND ship it all the way to North America for such a great price? Wouldn't it make more sense for people to be shipping displays *TO* Russia, where they probably sell for *more* than in the West or Asia? Best case scenario is that the display was part of a shipment stolen in Russia, worst case is that you will never see anything after you wire the money. Is this incredibly high risk really worth it? Don't let greed cloud your judgement - you *know* the truth: If it sounds too good to be true...

There is a Russian internet retailer by the name of VIP Sales Corp. - but I know that buying from Russia must be a very risky endeavor.

Check the whois on vip-sales.com. Created 14 Feb 2006, only contact information is a PO Box in California, and they're asking you to Western Union payment to Moscow?

One really obvious problem with the site is that they're offering all the high-dollar items they can think of that would be possible to FedEx. They're not just selling a few brands. They're not just selling a specific type of thing. They're selling basically every name brand of plasma except Sony for 1/2 retail. They're selling every high-end laptop imaginable, including Apple, Dell, Sony, Alienware, IBM, Toughbooks (odd they're selling Sony laptops but not Sony TVs). They're selling iPods but only in lots of 10. The cheapest item on the entire site is $747.00. These guys don't mess around with little $100 accessories like batteries for the laptops -- only high-dollar stuff. Hell, they've got the $700 Noka Versace phone, but you have to buy two at a time. Seriously? Versace phones in bulk? The stuff is so random. They offer a single motherboard -- a quad Opteron server board that supports 64GB. Don't miss the platinum phone for $21,229.00. The site has a place for reviews, but oddly enough nobody wrote any.

Do you honestly think a store that size exists, after just magically appearing on Valentine's Day this year, which has no phone number and no feedback anywhere online?

One fun thing to do is add items to your basket and see how many you can get before it says they're out of stock. I got:

22 x Panasonic 65" Plasma TV
32 x Samsung 63" Plasma TV
98 x Apple MacBook Pro
89 x Canon XL2 Digital Camcorder
99 x Tyan quad-Opteron motherboards
100 x Vertu Signature Platinum phone -- $2.1 mil of stock? They think that's gonna sell?
200 x Nokia 7270 Versace (100 packs of 2) -- a limited edition item ... is this all they made?

All that for a cool $2,959,506.90.

Oddly enough, the 540 items in my basket have a total shipping weight of 0 lbs.

Of course this payment is well before you get the intem into your hot little hands and you could just receive a box of rocks from FedEx.

Really? Who ships items before getting payment? That would be a lot of fun to order that 65" Panasonic and see if they actually send you 172 lbs. of rocks without payment.

... nevermind ... looking back at my shopping basket I remembered that their items are magical and have no weight. They'd probably FedEx you a mail-order bride catalog. I hear they have a lot of them lying around.

I'm going to be brutally honest.

If you pay Western Union to an unknown Russian "company", then you are an idiot. I don't say this to be mean, but rather to make sure you understand that there is no possible way on Earth this is legit, and to believe otherwise is to willfully choose to ignore reality.

billybob_jcv was much more tactful (and the article link was helpful). However, I would not want anyone here to get ripped off, especially not for thousands of dollars. The fact that you posted to this thread implies that, like me, you do not have money to piss away. Don't waste it on this.

They say they'll give you a tracking number and then expect payment within 12 hours, so the tracking number would probably be for something like an empty box or envelope and then you couldn't say you never received anything from them in return if it went that far. Not only that but then those scammers know where you live...

i just picked up the Maxent 42 inch at Costco. They didnt have the 50 inch or i would have got it.

i shouldnt be buyng something worth 1600 dollars anyways, but world cup is coming up, so its a must. lol

Saw the 50" at Costco. Anyone have this set? Looked good compared to the other plasma's (Vizio/Philips)

There is someone that just bought one and posted in a separate 50HP16 thread. It sounds like they are made by Orion for Toshiba and I don't know enough about that to comment but I saw the plasma at Costco and it was right next to the 50PM50U Panasonic. I couldn't see much of a difference with their HD feed but maybe time will tell if people are having luck with the Toshibas.

Well, I wrote to both VIP and that eBay seller telling them that I'd do business with them if they would agree to use a reputable escrow service as the go-between. Neither replied.

It's a scam.

I hope no one bidding on that auction gets hosed.

My local Costco had a model I've never seen in there before today...


A42HD84 Envision 42 hdtv plasma:

claims 10,000:1 contrast


the once over test had it comparing better than the year old, (shudder) burn-in afflicted Pioneer display unit they were selling at a greatly marked down price...

Is this a new unit? Is it as good at home as it is in the store?

A42HD84 Envision 42 hdtv plasma:

claims 10,000:1 contrast
looked amazing in the store

Is this a new unit? I've never seen it, but it could be an old unit my local store has just never stocked before. Regardless, is it as good at home as it is in the showroom?

the eyeball test had it beating the year old, (shudder) burn-in afflicted Pioneer display unit they were selling at a greatly marked down price, the phillips, the maxent, and about the same as the 50in toshiba...

Anyone have any experience? I missed the boat on the original maxent x3 (the good one) would be nice if this turns out to be something similar.

Debating on buying the Vizio 37" HDTV for above my fireplace. Are you satisfied with the quality in comparison to others for the money....paying (NOT ALLOWED)from Cosco.

Seriously, McKay - what does the title of this thread say in CAPITAL LETTERS? Please edit your post.

I just noticed it on their website. A quick search on google shows MSRP of $1599

Tditti, was it near the Vizio 42"? How'd they look side by side?

The site doesn't state QAM, only ATSC and NTSC, not that big of a deal, but QAM would be nice.

I'm going to check it out this week.

Couple of pics

http://www.costco.com/Images/Content/ProductLarge/994623LL.jpg

http://www.costco.com/Images/Content/ProductLarge/994623LL_v.jpg

Only Vizio they had was the 50 incher with the strangely twisted bezel they had around the corner. The viz looked washed out to me, but it's hard to tell when it was the only TV on the second aisle.

Absolutely smoked the Maxent (the plasma 42 with the bottom speakers) next to it if that means anything.

Only problem is it might have a very slight blue push - presumably correctable via service menu...

Sharpness and contrast were really, really good.

In those photo's the bezel looks matte, but in the store (at least the one I was looking at) had pioneer'ish glossly piano black.

I just noticed it on their website. A quick search on google shows MSRP of $1599

Tditti, was it near the Vizio 42"? How'd they look side by side?

The site doesn't state QAM, only ATSC and NTSC, not that big of a deal, but QAM would be nice.

I'm going to check it out this week.

Couple of pics

http://www.costco.com/Images/Content/ProductLarge/994623LL.jpg

http://www.costco.com/Images/Content/ProductLarge/994623LL_v.jpg


is this in reference to the 42" envision on c0stc0's website?.....well if it is, what is the resolution? c0stc0 says 1024x768, envision says 852x840?

is this in reference to the 42" envision on c0stc0's website?.....well if it is, what is the resolution? c0stc0 says 1024x768, envision says 852x840?

You're looking at the wrong display. Pay attention to the model numbers. The Envision site only has 1 EDTV on their site. The AOC site has all 3 plasmas on there.

To answer your question though, it's 1024x768.

first off, i wasn't directing my question to you! it was directed to the poster that posted the pics off of costco. maybe you should pay attention to who the question is directed to rather than trying to be a smart a$$.

I'm trying to help you out in letting you know that the TV on the envision website (A42W64AT4 - EDTV) is not the same tv on the Costco website (A42HD84 - HDTV - you'll find the right tv on the AOC website instead) and you're calling me a smart ass? Maybe you should pay attention when people are sincerely trying to help you out.

This is a public forum. If you're expecting a response from only one person, send them a PM.

I'm trying to help you out in letting you know that the TV on the envision website (A42W64AT4 - EDTV) is not the same tv on the Costco website (A42HD84 - HDTV - you'll find the right tv on the AOC website instead) and you're calling me a smart ass? Maybe you should pay attention when people are sincerely trying to help you out.

This is a public forum. If you're expecting a response from only one person, send them a PM.

i realized the model numbers, and the difference between them. but like i said my post was directed the the poster who linked the images off the costco.com website. on costco's website they claim that the model in those pictures have a resolution of 1024x768. i was wondering whether or not costco had the model # wrong or the resolution was wrong. anyhow, if you were trying to help out, i appreciate it.

A lot of the time costco's most impressive buys are from TVs that are outdated or about to be outdated.

This isn't true all of the time, though. Costco is selling that professional line of Panasonic plasmas (the most recent ones) for great prices.

new pro line comes out in july - speculation is MSRP will be lower (EG the 700$ drop in this year's consumer line)

Anybody familiar with the Pioneer 50" Costco is selling now on their website? Looks like a stripped down monitor ala the Panasonics they've been selling.

The price is good - but I'm curious how it stacks up to the Pioneer 50" you can buy these days (the 5061)

Harden -

Was curious about that set as well. From my research: Fantastic set, limited inputs.

The screen/picture are supposed to be gorgeous and near elite quality. However, there is no stand or speakers (which to some people is a bonus). There is only a componant and DVI input, no HDMI. And unlike the panasonic, there is no 'blade' system to upgrade the set to more inputs. If all you want is DVI, then I think the set is a winner. I'm waiting for the 2006 Pioneers to come out in June before I decide what to do.

I have a Best Buy question.

If I exchange a TV within 30 days, do I get another 30 days to find out if the replacement is defective or not?

Would like to buy a good plasma TV. Where should I buy it from? Costco Vs other retail stores? Please help. Not sure if this is the right forum to ask this question. I am new here.

Experts - Please help.

Thanks

LOL. I checked costco last night, and they had the consumer 50" TH-50PX50U listed. They were selling it for about the same price as you can get the 60U right now.

Really puzzled me why they'd offer a set from last year that has only 1 HDMI for the same price as this year's set.

I checked the site again this morning and it's gone. Must have been either an error or just a couple lying around.

the 50u was a more expensive set to produce (ergo more expensive on Costco's invoice) to the tune of 600-700 dollars in the MSRP.

If you get them at the same price the 50u is quite cheap...

Harden,

I'd return it completely then buy the other TV on a seperate transaction.

They probably would give you 30 more days, but BB treated me like a criminal when I returned a DoA plasma...

Tditti,

But the 60U is superior to the 50U, no? Doesn't the 60U come with two HDMIs? I assume the processor was better as well.

LOL. I checked costco last night, and they had the consumer 50" TH-50PX50U listed. They were selling it for about the same price as you can get the 60U right now.

Really puzzled me why they'd offer a set from last year that has only 1 HDMI for the same price as this year's set.

I checked the site again this morning and it's gone. Must have been either an error or just a couple lying around.
i think you mean the TH-50PM50u...thats the px50u without the tuners...thats the unit costco has sold, and is probably what you saw. AFAIK theyve never had the px50u.

What do you guys think about the Dell 37" LCD at Costco right now? I know i should demo it and return if i don't like it, but what do you think about the price?

I figure in a couple of years if there are issues i can always return it to costco and end up with a 1080p 40-45" LCD for the amount i spend today.

c-net D0T com has a review of the DELL LCDs. I'd post the link but newbies aren't allowed :confused:

sorry if i missed a post about this, but does anyone know if costco plans on selling the 600Us? i think someone mentioned that they have the 60Us in the store (not the site)

they will NOT be selling 600us...and they dont have any 60us in the store. they may have a 60u without tuners come the fall...just like last year. the model that people have talked about on here is the 50pM50u..the unit from last year without tuners. they are also selling the commercial units right now.

GREAT thread, I have been reading it for an hour!

I am a Costco member, and I have never returned a thing, except maybe clothing that did not fit. BUT, now I want a plasma TV 42"-50", and I want to buy at Costco. I have heard SO many lies at BB and CC in the last few days.

At this point, I think I like the Maxent 50"...... BUT, they handed me a summer coupon book as I exited the store today. Several flat panels were in there, including the 50" Maxent, but it is for mid August........ 1-- I do not want to wait that long! 2-- I will be out of the state, on vacation, the entire week ....... And it is what I saw the item for today in the store. I am now VERY confused as to what to DO. It would be ever 30 days, I would have to truck my 50" plasma BACK to the store, and get a new one. I feel bad about that, leaving Costco with a 8 week old used TV.......I would let it slide........ plus, I willnot be home to even deal with this.

Interesting too, the starting price of the TV is less than I saw today. Maybe they are slightly different models.

Pat, I bought a Vizio 50 at Costco in November 2005, It recently dropped in price. I went to the store today and got a refund for the difference after I bought it six months ago. You cannot go wrong buying it at Costco. You can return it if you do not like it and if the price goes down you can get your money back.

dicecco, did you read cheridaves edit reason in the post you responded to? jeez..and youve been on here two years longer than i have...

I am fairly determined to buy at Costco, but I am having trouble finding a TV I like.... And I will say I live near 2 Costcos, and one has more TVs than the other. PLUS they seem loaded with rear projection sets, that I really dislike.

I like the Maxent plasma picture, but the 42" I saw in the store has no tuner (and I want to watch one show while Tivo-ing another, so I need the tuner even with cable box). I am afraid of the Vizio sets, with all the reports here of buzzing noises, and the 50" has no tuner. The 42" has a tuner, so maybe. Also, I am not a fan of the shiny black frame. Even though Costco will take it back, I hope to aviod all the hassle. There is a Phillips 42" and 50", butI read reports here of problems with the picture on those...... Online, I see the Panasonic Professional, comes with no speakers, I would rather have the regular Panny. Store had a 50" Toshiba, but its pricey........

How often do they get new sets??? I do not really care about the brand, but would like a tuner, and framed inblackwould be nice........ something will have to give! Online there is a Maxent 42" LCD as well........ ARGHHH! I am sure it will all work out!

the 42 vizio plasma PQ is a major step backwards from the 50" vizio. If you must have a tuner you can buy them stand alone for as low as $50 :cool:

the 42 vizio plasma PQ is a major step backwards from the 50" vizio. If you must have a tuner you can buy them stand alone for as low as $50 :cool:

The above post is an opinion. My opinion is very different - the PQ on the 42" is very good and is comparable to the 50". Both units suffer from problems, though - don't go in with the expectation you are getting a $3500 42" PDP for...well, a lot less.

I am still considering a 50", but really, we will be sitting 8-10 feet from the screen, so I am reading 42" will be better. The biggest TV we EVER had, is our 6 year old 28" Sony (standard set). (It seemed big compared to previous 19" set when we bought it). So, a 42" should feel big to us. Looking at the Phillips 42" Plasma with Ambi now, too.

This forum is quite helpful. Thanks to all!

I am fairly determined to buy at Costco, but I am having trouble finding a TV I like.... And I will say I live near 2 Costcos, and one has more TVs than the other. PLUS they seem loaded with rear projection sets, that I really dislike.

...

How often do they get new sets??? I do not really care about the brand, but would like a tuner, and framed inblackwould be nice........ something will have to give! Online there is a Maxent 42" LCD as well........ ARGHHH! I am sure it will all work out!Since you have Comcast, once you get your new plasma (or lcd), make sure to get the $5 HD box. You will never go back to standard TV again ;). Then you won't care about a tuner and recording on Tivo. You could get the Comcast recorder if you want to pay the money.

BTW a 42" widescreen is about 35" on a standard set (4:3) so yes, it will look big to you. When I first got my 42" 3 years ago, I loved it. Now that I have a 50", I'm blown away by the 'overused' experience...and I sit about 7 feet away. I finally mounted my old 42" in another room and it looks 'small' to me ;).

I saw the Sony KDL-32S20L1 at Costco. I can't locate this model number on SonyStyle. has anyone purchased this model? Any thoughts?

I would like to get either the 32 or 37 inch Philips LCD from Costco but I really prefer a totally silver cabinet. All the ones I've seen at Costco have a black cabinet on the face although the speakers and the back side are silver.

Anybody see a totally silver colored cabinet on the Philips anywhere?

I've heard great things about Costco's return policy. Does Sam's Club have a similarly lenient policy? I don't have a local Costco, unfortunately. NW Arkansas is Wal-Mart country.

Yeah, I've always heard Costco was a great place to buy tvs. Might check their next weekend.

-dunno about tvs, but I returned 3 computers there...never had any real problems. Have bought 3 open box tvs there - 2 crts, one lcd flatscreen. Wouldn't be afraid to do it again...

I've heard great things about Costco's return policy. Does Sam's Club have a similarly lenient policy? I don't have a local Costco, unfortunately. NW Arkansas is Wal-Mart country.
Sams is also a great place to buy HD equipment due to their liberal return policy.

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

BTW I kind of object to not being able to post price info here. Price can be just as important as quality, and it's a value proposition for most of us. I.e. what do I get for my money? Otherwise, we'd all have $10k Elite 65" plasmas.

A good example is me buying the Vizio 50" at Costco. It's not a Pioneer Elite, but at <$2k vs $5k or so for the Pioneer, or $3k+ for anything else, it's good value given the apparent quality and reviews. The extra grand (or two) goes a long way for some of us.

Tell me it wouldn't be important if Pioneer dropped their price to $3700?

2 cents, please don't ban me!!!

:)

I noticed in the new summer coupon book there is a sale on this set (online). Does anyone know anything about it? I haven't seen it in the stores but I know that if this set looks anything like the 37" set they've been selling, I want one.

Hi, I have about 200,000 crdiet card points with which I can get $2000 in gift cards for Best Buy, Circuit City, or Compusa. I'm thinking of buying a 42"-50" plasma. I can't shop any specific deal, then redeem the points since it takes a couple of weeks to get the cards. I have to get the cards, then watch for a good deal.

So I'm looking for advice. Which store would you choose? Thanks!

Does anyone know which Maxent 50" model is going to be on sale in August? I just got the summer coupon book, and a 50" maxent is mentioned there. just curious which model?

That's like deciding on which autombile manufacturer before you even know what models they sell.

IMHO, pick a display first that meets your needs (them selling it being one of them) and decide which store to go with. They almost always are having sales and will pricematch anyway, so it's a moot point.

I would definitely eliminate CompUSA as their selection is very limited. Personally I prefer Circuit City because of the 30 day no hassle return policy. I purchased and eventually returned a 45" Sharp LCD with absolutely no hassle. They didn't even check it our. From what I have heard BB drags you through the dirt trying to do a return .... of course this could all be based on an individual store rather then the entire company so YMMV of course......

I would get either BB or CC based on which model you want. They both carry Panny and Samsung. CC has Hitatchi and BB has Toshiba. There are some other differences in panels carried, but I think those are the big ones. You can buy a panel at either place even if it is not on sale, but all tv's will always go on sale sometime in the 30 days after you buy so you can price match. I wouldn't worry to much about return policy; I believe they're about the same.

If you have a BB with a Magnolia Home Theater store inside, it gives you access to Hitachi's Director's Series, Pioneer Elite, and they may have some leftover Fujitsus hanging around at deep discounts...

Does anyone know if costco will take an item back without the box?

I am a Costco member, also BJs. BJs had a 42" Pioneer Plasma today.... along with many other sets. I am NO expert, but none of the TVs looked too great there. Probably the feed. I have no idea how BJs return policy is either.

At Both BJs and Costco, they seem to be "pushing" the rear projection LCDs. With Plasma prices dropping, these sets may become dinosaurs ?? They are very large, and you can''t view them from the side, etc.

I will bet the mfrs are giving huge spiffs to the sales staff for LCD RPs. They want those things out of their inventory before they become land fill.

Can you return to Sam's club easily like you can to Costco? Say if I go and pick up a 32" this weekend but decide I'm not satisfied after a couple of months of use, could I take it back and upgrade it to a 42" or 50" with no problem?

In theory, yes, but in practice at least anecdotally Sam's harrasses people a lot more...

I am waiting for the Panasonic 32'' lcd that's available in August at Costco. Finally, a brand-name lcd that's affordable. But that's still another two months. :(

Any way to use a coupon at Costco before its effective date? The current "passport" has a bunch of coupons that have dates in June, July and August.

For example, can you buy the product and then get the amount of the coupon refunded to you during the dates it is in effect?

Or are you stuck with buying the HDTV and returning it during the coupon period and then re-buying it?

Any way to use a coupon at Costco before its effective date? The current "passport" has a bunch of coupons that have dates in June, July and August.

For example, can you buy the product and then get the amount of the coupon refunded to you during the dates it is in effect?

Or are you stuck with buying the HDTV and returning it during the coupon period and then re-buying it?
I always do this:

I buy the item full price, open it and use it.

When the item is on sale. I buy it at the sale price, then go right to the return desk and return the new unopened item using the old receipt.

This way I don't have to pack up the orignal item I purchased.

I've done this with luggage, aerobeds, DVD's etc.

I always do this:

I buy the item full price, open it and use it.

When the item is on sale. I buy it at the sale price, then go right to the return desk and return the new unopened item using the old receipt.

This way I don't have to pack up the orignal item I purchased.

I've done this with luggage, aerobeds, DVD's etc.


You are the Pro, I never though of it.

I noticed in the new summer coupon book there is a sale on this set (online). Does anyone know anything about it? I haven't seen it in the stores but I know that if this set looks anything like the 37" set they've been selling, I want one.

Costco website says on July 3 you can get the 42 inch for the same price as the current price of the 37 inch. I can wait but don't know if I can convince the wife, she wants an HD set now. Wish me luck.

Old Mitsubishi 35" Tube TV is dead. Going shopping today for a new TV. Looking for HD. Going to go to BestBuy, CostCo, Circuit City, and CompUSA. Budget is around $2500-3500 depending on how much better things get for more money.

Any tips for looking? Anything not to miss?

That's easy.
Tip:
#1 Take everything you are told by salespeople with a HUGE grain of salt.
#2 Don't think that the PQ (Pic. Quality) that is displayed is the best or the worst that the panel can do. It is how it was sent from the factory (usually) and is set most likely to TORCH for maximum punch.
#3 Read through various threads here, know what you 'might' want, know the differences between Plasma, LCD, DLP... etc. before you go.

Look for the Panny 60U's, the Pio Elites, the latest Samsungs (some like them).

Remember also that two of the best displays are NOT going to be out there for you to see. The 8UK Panny commercial, and the NEC 50xr5.

Good luck.

shane

At that price range, I like the 50" Panny HD commercial plasma, not available at a retail store. You're in Sacto - I bet visualapex/etc could get to you by next weekend as they're just up in oregon [washington?].

I got my Panny 50 8UK from V/A. Shipping was awesome. I ordered on a Thursday and it arrived in NC (where I live) by Monday! Talk about fast.

Once calibrated Panny (and I'm sure NEC) is great. Out of box it will look like crap though/

does anyone know when and if the pioneer 50" plasma's are coming back to COSTCO ?should have grabbed one when they were there in the fall.

does anyone know when and if the pioneer 50" plasma's are coming back to COSTCO ?should have grabbed one when they were there in the fall.


Which one? They have the Pioneer PDP505MX listed online right now.

The 505MX is the industrial/professional version. Supposedly a good picture, but not HDMI inputs, and unlike the Panasonic professional, no ability to change the inputs.

The guy is referring to the 5040 that the retail Costcos were selling until about a month ago. Those units are gone forever.

The guy is referring to the 5040 that the retail Costcos were selling until about a month ago. Those units are gone forever.

BUMMER!!!

The 505MX is the industrial/professional version. Supposedly a good picture, but not HDMI inputs, and unlike the Panasonic professional, no ability to change the inputs.

The guy is referring to the 5040 that the retail Costcos were selling until about a month ago. Those units are gone forever.

Are you sure? The 505CMX has 2 expansion slots. I thought I remember reading somewhere that the 505MX was just the 505CMX with an Aurora video card installed?

Anyone have any experience buying open-box items from Costco? Are they just a lenient with returns for this sort of item?

I would think with their liberal return policy there would be lots of open-box deals to be had, with merchandise that is in top condition (hopefully!) ;) :D

Anyone have any experience buying open-box items from Costco? Are they just a lenient with returns for this sort of item?

I would think with their liberal return policy there would be lots of open-box deals to be had, with merchandise that is in top condition (hopefully!) ;) :D

Yes, I have returned open box items without problems.

Moderator

bashing other members is not allowed: several posts edited/deleted

Moderator

AVS is for technical issues: not politics

Technical issues only

Sell most of the returned TVs. It is called GTM. They have 2 stores

Sell most of the returned TVs. It is called GTM. They have 2 stores

how do the prices compare to what Costco sells new?

I saw the Sony KDL-32S20L1 at Costco. I can't locate this model number on SonyStyle. has anyone purchased this model? Any thoughts? I saw the model you're referring to today and contacted the Sony Tech support line to see if they could give me any info on that model#. They indicated that it is a special model made for Costco and that's all the info they could give. They said in a few days they should have the specs on it. I'm thinking that it's probably exactly the same as the 32S2000, but with a silver face instead of the darker medium silver that the 32S2000 has. I originally purchasaed the KLVS-32A10 at Costo, but when I saw and compared it to the KDL-32S2000, I settled for the 32S2000. It offered more features and asthetically looked better. If Costco's new KDL-32S20L1 is the same or better than the 32S2000 buy it, it's a good price. I've found that the real difference between brands is the "WHITE" color. Sony seems to be the brightist with the "whitist" whites, but one can only tell if comparing brands side by side. Probably whatever brand you buy and put in your house it will look great... hey you've nothing to compare it to. I choose Sony because I've always had Sony's and they've served me well over the years. I've had two other Sony TV's in the past 20 years;(26" in '86 and 32" in '93 and they still work fine with no problems, but it was time to upgrade.

Most TV's are about 1/3 less than they were at Costco.

costco.com now previews the 42" philips lcd for july (on the last page in the television section), but they don't state the model number? anyone know? plus, it says that the item won't ship until 20 days after the order is placed!! that stinks!

Just wondering what you thought what the best 42 inch plasma at Costco would be.

TIA

Buying one in 2 weeks.

Want the Costco "warranty"

Just wondering what you thought what the best 42 inch plasma at Costco would be.

TIA

Buying one in 2 weeks.

Want the Costco "warranty"
I just received my 50" Panasonic 8UK. IMHO, the 42" Panny 8UK is the best in that size, but it's online only.

I had bought (at the store) and returned their 42" Pioneer. It was not good.

good luck

shane

Just wondering what you thought what the best 42 inch plasma at Costco would be.

TIA

Buying one in 2 weeks.

Want the Costco "warranty"

I think they have my commercial Panny EDTV at Costco (click my signature). I love it and it costs much less. Get a 60" 1080p later when they become affordable.

The 42" Philips is good, but can (and often does) have black-screen issues when the HDMI connects are used.

I saw the Sony KDL-32S20L1 at Costco. I can't locate this model number on SonyStyle. has anyone purchased this model? Any thoughts?Hey Sctazom, checked back with Sony and the Costco model is the exact same model as the KDL-32S2000. The only physical difference is the face color, but a big advantage is the Costo model comes with a 1 1/2 year warranty from Sony vs the standard 1-year :) . The warranty also provides In-Home Repair Service - just keep your Costco receipt as evidence of the purchase date. So, I'm returning my 32S2000 and picking up Costco's model. The face color is a better match for my homes decor, the warranty is much better and the price is better .

I have been looking at the Maxent 42 inch plasma at Costco....Any feedback. I am thinking of trying it out and if I need to upgrade, I will look into their 50 inch plasma in the coupon book.
At the Costco in San Diego, they have 2 TV's I am deciding between.
Maxent 42 inch plasma and Sony A-10 50inch LCd Projection....Any feedback for me?????

Hey Sctazom, checked back with Sony and the Costco model is the exact same model as the KDL-32S2000. The only physical difference is the face color, but a big advantage is the Costo model comes with a 1 1/2 year warranty from Sony vs the standard 1-year :) . The warranty also provides In-Home Repair Service - just keep your Costco receipt as evidence of the purchase date. So, I'm returning my 32S2000 and picking up Costco's model. The face color is a better match for my homes decor, the warranty is much better and the price is better .

Thanks for ruining my eyes!!! Do you ever read back your posts???

Picked up the Sony KDL-40S20L1 at Costco yesterday. I haven't been able to determine if there's any difference with this model and the S2000. I have it hooked up to just my basic cable and SD seems just fine. esp when viewing it in its original 4:3. I receive about 10 HD channels incl. all the major networks 3 PBS and TNT. The playoff game last night was excellent.

I would definitely eliminate CompUSA as their selection is very limited. Personally I prefer Circuit City because of the 30 day no hassle return policy. I purchased and eventually returned a 45" Sharp LCD with absolutely no hassle. They didn't even check it our. From what I have heard BB drags you through the dirt trying to do a return .... of course this could all be based on an individual store rather then the entire company so YMMV of course......

Agree 100% I hate buying at BB because the two times I needed to return something there they gave me really hard time (in two different stores). One time I bought and wanted to return 2 days later a HDTV-ready tube tv that, at home, started to change channels by itself and would change a channel suddenly every hour or so for no reason whatsoever.

Now when I took it to BB, they turned it on, and, of course, it did not change a channel for 20 min it was there. They made me wait for 20 min or more. Then they wanted to charge me 20% restocking fee even though it was nowhere in their return policy. Plus I brought back the box and all the original packaging.

I hated that experience. Another time I wanted to return a set of wires that I previously purchased and that BB store gave me a hard time because of packaging, I guess I was not neat enough. Aweful experience each time. Sometimes I have no choice but to buy at BB because the product available there. But other than that I would buy at CC, within a month, you'd have no problems returning your item. CC would aggresively push extended warranty on you of course because this is the only way their salespeople make money. That does not bother me because I used to sell audio/video equipment decades ago, and I know how it works - as a salesman - you make 10% commission on extended warranty and 1% commission on the product, and you gotta pay bills so cannot blame these poor souls to try to sell extended warranty at all costs. Plus their manager is breathing down their neck: sell warranty, sell warranty.

I actually have a question about Costco's return policy. I have a tendency to immediately throw away boxes from electronics items I buy because I (and my fiancee especially) simply do not have any space to have it. Do they charge restocking fee if you don't have a box, or not?

Do they charge restocking fee if you don't have a box?

no.

Sears is driving me crazy. I got all excited when I saw their latest ads for 10% off using sears card, 0% APR for 18 months and also an ad showing $250 instant savings on the Samsung Plasma I wanted.

Turns out that:

- 0% APR is already over and sears.com is wrong
[EDIT]

How to Shop for Flat-Panel TVs

Warehouse Stores Lack in Selection --
But Return Policies Are a Perk



One of the most generous, and little-known, return policies in consumer electronics seems safe -- at least for the moment.

Costco Wholesale and Sam's Club, a unit of Wal-Mart Stores, have long let any customer return virtually anything, at any time, to their warehouse stores. Recently, however, that generosity has started causing them headaches. Scores of customers who bought pricey plasma or liquid-crystal-display televisions have lugged them back, unhappy, apparently, with how they worked in their homes. Both companies had stated they were reviewing their procedures.

In the past week, however, Costco said it has decided to leave its rules in place. Analysts weren't thrilled. "I was surprised that Costco wasn't willing to forgo their pride or legacy and put something in place" to prevent the costly returns, says Charles Grom of J.P. Morgan Chase. Sam's also plans no changes.

Whether this is prudent fiscal stewardship, it is good news for consumers, who ought to add Costco or Sam's to the shopping itinerary when seeking out fancy new TVs.

Why? First, their return policies don't punish the confused. Many people don't realize that their non-high-definition channels may look lousy when blown up on their big screen. Others can't figure out how to set the sets up.


To recalibrate expectations, Costco is putting some non-HD content on display models so people can see how it looks. It's experimenting with offering installation help, too, which it already does for Costco.com1 shoppers. Sam's is beefing up in-store training and customer communications.

Meanwhile, the generous return policies also create an opening for a crafty consumer play: Use them as de facto extended warranties. New, expensive technology makes consumers wary, and the Best Buys and Circuit Cities of the world have exploited these feelings by offering to extend the year-or-so TV manufacturers' warranties several more years -- for hundreds of extra dollars. Sam's offers extended warranties, too, at lower prices.

But if you can bring a TV back to Costco or Sam's at any time, for any reason, why wouldn't you shop there? This might tempt consumers to simply return it if it breaks -- and skip the extended warranty.

Does bringing back a broken two-year-old set make you a jerk? Costco's chief financial officer, Richard Galanti, says he doesn't know exactly where the line is between reasonable consumer behavior and abusing a generous policy. Seong Ohm, a vice president at Sam's, can't draw it either, though she says that returning a busted 18-month-old set seems reasonable, while bringing one back after five years might raise eyebrows.

For now, the companies are betting that the goodwill their policies create exceeds the cost of any abuse. A few years back, however, Costco got about 1,000 five-year-old computer returns in a year. Peeved, it made the sole exception to its formerly sacrosanct return policy: Customers now have to bring back personal computers within six months. Sam's has the same rule.

If enough people return their flat-screen TVs the day after the Super Bowl, or three years after they bought them, yet another rare vestige of retail generosity may also disappear for good.

Interestingly, I did indeed see very prominent signage at the TV display area at a local Costco just yesterday stating that "To see the benefits of an HD TV, you needed to be receiving HD channels"

I love Costco's return policy because it makes me more at ease at buying a HDTV. I'm going to get one in the next month or so, and knowing that if I make a mistake, I can exchange it, is the sole reason I'm willing to go to costco over other places.

Additionally, if a person brings a TV back within a small frame of time, it really isn't a problem since they just go ahead and sell it. The only reason I would ever bring a TV (or anything for that matter) back after an extended period of time is if it broke by its own fault.

I bought a Daewoo 42" EDTV 2.5 years ago at Bestbuy with extended warranty. Really enjoyed it (bedroom tv), have HDtivo and HTPC connected to it. It broke down 10 months later, called BB and in 10 days it was fixed and working again.

Well 10 months later, again, same trouble. This time they could not get the parts needed. 50 days passed waiting for parts and I was approved for a replacement set. I just purchased a Pany TH-42PX60U and my out of pocket cost was $399.00 for another extended warranty. It gets delivered on Saturday.

I have not used my HDtivo with HDMI yet, very interested to see what the picture will look like. Also need to swap out the video card in the HTPC to use a DVI>HDMI cable. Current card has no DVI. Just thought I'd let people know sometimes extended warranties do work.

50 days with no TV...you absolutely deserve a Panny Plasma for that!!

The exact same thing happened to me as happened to Isolo. I had a Daewoo EDTV, got it two years ago, and in late January, it stopped working. I had an after-market warranty from Repairmaster, and they referred me to a local repair shop here in NYC.

But, none of the parts the repair shop tried worked, and I spent months going back and forth with Repairmaster, Daewoo and the repair shop. Everyone was fairly professional, but all the companies involved kept passing the buck and I was making no headway at all. Finally, they gave up the ghost and just last week approved a replacement. They wanted to send me some re-conditioned set, but I insisted on the cash.

So if you think 50 days is a big deal, I was on the hook for almost exactly four months ;)

Just hopped over to Costco in Long Island City on Sunday, and got a HD Maxent, so far it's pretty cool...

I visited Costco today to see the Sony KDL40S20L1 others have mentioned (very similar to the KDL40S2000 40" LCD). I was quite impressed with it, but I also noticed a Panasonic 42" plasma that I thought was the TH42PX60U. Upon closer inspection, the bezel seems to be a darker silver, and the model number is TH42PX6U. I've searched the forums here and haven't found that model anywhere else. I was impressed with the picture on this one and also the price. Anyone know about this model? If it is the same as the 60U with regard to specs I'm very tempted. Both this and the Sony are in my price range and I like Costco's return policy.

So, can I order a second big panel from BB for home delivery, then return the one I don't want? I got a westy 42" LCD 1080p, and I am not happy with the SD on it. I want to compare it to a Panny 42" Plasma ED, and see if I can stand the HD on the ED at 10'. Is it wrong to do this? Will BB mind - I don't want to hide it from them, but should I call attention to it and ask? I still have two weeks of the 30 day period on the Westy. I don't want to do anything unethical, but I want to compare. Lots of money being spent, want to make sure I make the right choice.

Advice?

Has anyone seen the Sony KDL46S2000 or Sharp LC45D40U (or Costco-specific equivalent) in a Costco?

Has anyone seen the Sony KDL46S2000 or Sharp LC45D40U (or Costco-specific equivalent) in a Costco?

Costco had a 45" Sharp in their Tucson, Arizona store. I didn't write the model number down, but at a quick glance it looked similar to the current model (silver, speakers on the bottom). They didn't have the Sony in a 46", but did in the 32" and 40" (see my post a few up).

The temperature here in Phoenix is more than 110 these days. Is it safe for an LCD television to be shipped? Will the heat fry the LCDs? I don't care if its a dry heat, it's blistering!

Thought I'd hold off ordering a LCD panel, which will need to be delivered by truck, until it cools off a few dozen degrees! Any comments?

The temperature here in Phoenix is more than 110 these days. Is it safe for an LCD television to be shipped? Will the heat fry the LCDs? I don't care if its a dry heat, it's blistering!

Thought I'd hold off ordering a LCD panel, which will need to be delivered by truck, until it cools off a few dozen degrees! Any comments?

Enjoy your new TV just in time for the Super Bowl :p
We're a "tad" cooler down here.

[QUOTE=salski]I visited Costco today to see the Sony KDL40S20L1 others have mentioned (very similar to the KDL40S2000 40" LCD). I was quite impressed with it, but I also noticed a Panasonic 42" plasma that I thought was the TH42PX60U. Upon closer inspection, the bezel seems to be a darker silver, and the model number is TH42PX6U. [\QUOTE]

It's likely without a tuner. If you could, please get additional specs on your next trip. ;)

[QUOTE=salski]I visited Costco today to see the Sony KDL40S20L1 others have mentioned (very similar to the KDL40S2000 40" LCD). I was quite impressed with it, but I also noticed a Panasonic 42" plasma that I thought was the TH42PX60U. Upon closer inspection, the bezel seems to be a darker silver, and the model number is TH42PX6U. [\QUOTE]

It's likely without a tuner. If you could, please get additional specs on your next trip. ;)


Anyone know is these are available at all Costcos ???? I might have to run out at lunch to check them out...

Does anyone know how often best buy does their 18 or 24 month financing? I am itching to get my new TV.

Does anyone know how often best buy does their 18 or 24 month financing? I am itching to get my new TV.

I believe BB is running an 18-month next week.

[QUOTE=iBleedGarnet]


Anyone know is these are available at all Costcos ???? I might have to run out at lunch to check them out...

You can't really rely on anything being available at all Costcos. Inventory can vary widely from store to store. The only way to know what your local store has is to go check (or call, but that's not always reliable either).

any opinions. Buddy says he will pull the trigger this weekend.

It will be mounted over the fireplace in basic rectangular room. Couch on one side, fireplace dead center across from it. Speakers aren't need on the actually tv as he has nice home audio gear.. Used fro xbox360 quite a bit as well as some comcast cable and PC.

COSTCO no longer price matching if after 30days??

I have VIZIO 50" and denied twice to price-match... They told me I should return it and buy a new one at current price :( .. Any ideas?

I believe BB is running an 18-month next week.

Thanks Vipper IV, I'll keep a look out.

I ordered both the westy 37" from best buy and the sceptre 37" from costco plainings to return what ever one i like less. anyways i was at BB today and noticed they have a 25% restocking fee on special order items... thats like $350 do they inforce this often? i might cancle my westy order if so... i dont want to get hit with that much if a restocking fee if i get an older version that ghosts.

Does Coscto resell refurbished Sceptre TVs ?

I just received "new" Sceptre x37 LCD TV/Monitor that I purchased online via Costco. While reading manual, I found an insert in it that at first I didn't know what think about (see below) :(
Why would someone do that ?

It seems that this unit has been returned from some unhappy customer and sold to me. :mad:

I was expecting some of the cons mentioned in that addendum, others items were news to me. However, I was expecting to receive NEW unit and not used/refurbished one !!
Should I return/exchange this LCD TV ?
Are there other 37 LCDs out there with similar feature set and without these issues ?

------------------------- Copied from the insert in manual -------------------------

Supplemental Addendum

Congratulations you have just purchased on of the most ineptly designed HDTV. and it's been previously owned as well!

Some of the wonderful features of this TV:

The inability to display the industry standard HDTV 1080i format through the RGB port. Sure you may be able to switch your equipment to 720p which will work. But why did you by a TV capable of displaying 1080 lines in the first place?

The picture in picture will not work between two HDTV sources. I bet you didn't like HD anyway?

Think if would be nice to be able to select between video sources with separate buttons? Well the designer didn't, and he made it very slow as well.

This set is also equipped with one of the industries slowest DTV tuners. How can you improve on that? Designit so you can't go directly to the subchannel you want to watch. The options is there but the implementations faulty so it doesn't work. Can you say S L O W?

If you think adding an echo to the sound is Surround Sound then you are a happy camper. If you want real Dolby Surround Sound your out of luck, they cleverly did not include Digital Audio Output jack.

You want to watch both digital and analog TV stations? Well you have to buy an antenna splitter and cables because this TV has separate antenna connection. How stupid is that?

Unless you stole this, remember to keep the packing material.

----------------------- end -----------------------------

Fortunately, I can return it to any Costco location and receive full refund inc. SH.

cheers.

Does Coscto resell refurbished Sceptre TVs ?

I just received "new" Sceptre x37 LCD TV/Monitor that I purchased online via Costco. While reading manual, I found an insert in it that at first I didn't know what think about (see below) :(

It seems that this unit has been returned from some unhappy customer and sold to me. :mad:


I'm sorry to hear about this since it seems to confirm what we on the Sceptre 37" thread had been suspecting for a while. That Sceptre repackages returned sets and resells them as new! Note that since these items are shipped directly from Sceptre when ordered through Costco, I don't think that Costco is necessarily the offending party (although they should already be aware of this practice based on previous complaints).

Why would someone do that ?


I don't know (it is kinda funny though), perhaps to test the theory that they are repackaging? Any former Sceptre owners want to fess up on this one?

If that is all that is wrong with that Sceptre, you got a good one keep it!

Holy cow, I just came back from Costco in Santa Clara, CA and they have a Panasonic th42px-6U (yes that is the correct model #) for a great price. It seems that it's the 2006 inards (electronics and glass) in the 2005 bezel. It looked great.

Also the Toshiba 50in Plasma is going on sale next week for a FANTASTIC price as well. Damnit, I wished I waited hehe.

COSTCO no longer price matching if after 30days??

I have VIZIO 50" and denied twice to price-match... They told me I should return it and buy a new one at current price :( .. Any ideas?
go to costco, buy a new one and return it wiht the old receipt at another costco or at the same one the next day.

What was the model number for the costco panasonic 50" LCD HDTV (I think)?

Is the TV any good? Is this the one with the bad bulbs?

The costco 50' panasonic is awesome. I bought it for my friends house. It is def a very, very good set. It's no fuji, but a great value IMO.

Gents (and gals), my parents are moving to New Bern North Carolina and there are CC's and Sears stores in their range. They want a Plasma when they get there and they want it store bought because of the return policies. Don't blame them.

50 inches minimum for them. They would like 55", but all I see at that size is the the slightly lower end Hitachi 55HDS52 at CC. :( The HDT models are widely reported to be better in regards to banding and image retention. Not to mention the Director Series, which I cannot find anywhere in CT to look at (and I still cannot find out what the heck the prices are for that series!). I do see Sixth Ave in NC has the series, but they are 70 miles from where my parents will live.

Anyway... Can I have some recommendations on what the best Plasmas at Sears and CC are? I know nothing about Plasmas, unfortunately. Their zip code will be 28562, so if anyone knows of any TV places near there, please speak up.

The set will be used with DVD (either a Panasonic RP91 or they might buy an HDMI equiped unit) and HD via cable. I believe Scientific Atlanta boxes are used in that area and they would have the 8300 DVR with HDMI.

Two sets you might be interested in are in the Panasonic line. The TH50PX60U and the TH58PX60U along with their higher end versions the 600U's. The 58" versions are not yet out but are due probably in a month or so the 50" sets should be widely available. The major difference between the 60 and 600 series is bells and whistles. The 600 series has cablecard, PIP (single tuner), better speakers. The picture quality should be the same. As far a price goes these should be some of the most affordable sets of the top tier manufacturers. Pioneer sets are also highly thought of but are pricier. Many consider these 2 brands the best of the Plasma makers.

Jim

Thanks, Jim. The bells and whistles don't matter. The parents like an HD-DVR so they won't need cable card. I want to try and find them a set that will give the PQ without banding and other plasma related issues. Basically the best set I can find for them withtin their budget. They don't want to go over 4 grand, but I hope to change that. If I can get them up a grand they can grabd the TH58PX60U I think.

They may settle for a 50 incher though. We shall soon see.

Hmm.. I didnt get this? If I could buy new one and fit in my car, then, I could have just returned the OLD one to COSTCO (get refund), and get new one (at current price) to home u know... Its a pain to disconnect old one, fit in car etcc :(
I didnt get ur logic ...

go to costco, buy a new one and return it wiht the old receipt at another costco or at the same one the next day.

Hmm.. I didnt get this? If I could buy new one and fit in my car, then, I could have just returned the OLD one to COSTCO (get refund), and get new one (at current price) to home u know... Its a pain to disconnect old one, fit in car etcc :(
I didnt get ur logic ...


What he meant is this -

If you don't want to unpack the old TV and return it for a higher refund, just buy the new one and pretend it is the old one and return it with the old receipt. I did that with a toy for my daughter in Walmart. I did not want to return the old one because we threw away the box, but I still had the receipt!!

You still have to bring the TV home or at least take it out of the store!! I wonder if you can just take it out of the store in a cart and bring it around to customer service :-)

What he meant is this -

If you don't want to unpack the old TV and return it for a higher refund, just buy the new one and pretend it is the old one and return it with the old receipt. I did that with a toy for my daughter in Walmart. I did not want to return the old one because we threw away the box, but I still had the receipt!!

You still have to bring the TV home or at least take it out of the store!! I wonder if you can just take it out of the store in a cart and bring it around to customer service :-)
actually i bought one at sams and immediately drove it to costco with the old receipt. the only problem with sams is that for some reason they mark out the entire UPC label on the box...but i found one with no marker on it. so now if i return this one itll have to go to sams...and ill only return this one if it goes bad or if i buy the panny 50px600u from cleve plasma.

as far as bringing it back around to custmer service, most costcos ive been in have cust svc right near the exit...so it would be hard to walk out without them seeing you! lol.

and for those of you on here that think i am scamming someone, think of this...at least they are getting a brand new unopened unit that they can sell as such. their stupid 30 day policy of price matching leads to this...and they are actually better off than getting back my used unit.

Gents (and gals), my parents are moving to New Bern North Carolina and there are CC's and Sears stores in their range. They want a Plasma when they get there and they want it store bought because of the return policies. Don't blame them.

50 inches minimum for them. They would like 55", but all I see at that size is the the slightly lower end Hitachi 55HDS52 at CC. :( The HDT models are widely reported to be better in regards to banding and image retention. Not to mention the Director Series, which I cannot find anywhere in CT to look at (and I still cannot find out what the heck the prices are for that series!). I do see Sixth Ave in NC has the series, but they are 70 miles from where my parents will live.

Anyway... Can I have some recommendations on what the best Plasmas at Sears and CC are? I know nothing about Plasmas, unfortunately. Their zip code will be 28562, so if anyone knows of any TV places near there, please speak up.

The set will be used with DVD (either a Panasonic RP91 or they might buy an HDMI equiped unit) and HD via cable. I believe Scientific Atlanta boxes are used in that area and they would have the 8300 DVR with HDMI.

There is a 55" Fujitsu (which I own) based on the Hitachi 55" glass. It gets very little respect on this forum however, it is a great PDP. I had a couple of other flat panels and this one is amazing not perfect but better than most...the 58" sounds really good though but it still won't have the Fujitsu processing...

I actually had a Costco manager refuse to give me the new reduced $200 price on a computer I had purchased three weeks before. So I bought a new one, then walked it straight from the cashier to the customer service desk. Gave them my old reciept and got my cash.
My new reciept wasn't even marked, so I could have loaded up another one and walked out with that reciept. But that would be stealing in my book, so it wasn't worth it.

There is a 55" Fujitsu (which I own) based on the Hitachi 55" glass. It gets very little respect on this forum however, it is a great PDP. I had a couple of other flat panels and this one is amazing not perfect but better than most...the 58" sounds really good though but it still won't have the Fujitsu processing...
Why does it "get very little respect?" Is this the one that streets for 7K or more? If so, it's a bit out of their price range.

What is the latest build of VIZIO ? I got the April 2006 Manf. one and it is whisper quiet, no FAN noise.. but i noticed some the SD chans are not that crisp..? I guess it takes a while for TV to set in..?

Edit: Fixed it. Turns out my Cable box is outputting @ 1080i and 480P, I changed it to 720P and 480I its beatiful now :))))

What is the latest build of VIZIO ? I got the April 2006 Manf. one and it is whisper quiet, no FAN noise.. but i noticed some the SD chans are not that crisp..? I guess it takes a while for TV to set in..?

Edit: Fixed it. Turns out my Cable box is outputting @ 1080i and 480P, I changed it to 720P and 480I its beatiful now :))))

I just picked one up (42")..still april 06. No noise, and I feel the picture is improved over earlier sets Ive seen. It doesn't have the washed out look I saw before.

Get an RS amplifier/splitter for your set. After hokking mine up to one the picture is at least as good (better I think) in SD as anything Ivé seen.


I returned a sony 32"Bravia to get this, mainly cause of size of SD pic, but also cause the SD pic looked too "plastic".

Why does it "get very little respect?" Is this the one that streets for 7K or more? If so, it's a bit out of their price range.


Well since it's out of their price range it probably doesn't matter...but since you asked, most people on this forum prefer Panasonic PDPs or PDPs that utilize Panasonic's glass. The 55" Fujitsu is not based on Panasonic glass hence it has black levels that are marginally not as good - yet IMHO, it's worth having the larger size coupled with Fujitsu's superior processor.

Keep in mind too, there is no real "street" price on Fujitsus - if they are purchased from dealers not affiliated with Fujitsu directly such as any online merchants, Fujitsu will not honor warranties on them.

One more thing, every summer Fujitsu offers rebates on its PDPs. The rebates are big.

Are this and the LC26SH10U 'Walmart-only' models?

Are this and the LC26SH10U 'Walmart-only' models?
Yes, the Sharp SH10Us are being sold in Wal-Mart and Sams Club only. They are actually made by Orion (Sansui) for Sharp.

Anybody familiar with these Panasonic 6Us Costco is selling now? Looks like a stripped down 60U (e.g. 1 HDMI, similar silver color, etc.)

Any info out there?

Anybody familiar with these Panasonic 6Us Costco is selling now? Looks like a stripped down 60U (e.g. 1 HDMI, similar silver color, etc.)

Any info out there?

Just bought one today after researching and saw that my neighbor bought one yesterday. Funny, we both returned Philips plasmas. Costco took them back with a smile.

Anyway, it has 2 HDMI but no front panel connections. That is the only difference I see.

So far so good. It looks great in HD and SD is much better than the Philips.

joe D, does it have tuners?

They usualy have a 1 year warranty provided by the manufacturer unless otherwise specified. I bought a plasma for real cheap at giantshopper com and there warranty and service was pretty good. I now want the 65" Panasonic they have...drool!

Can someone post the price on the Panasonuc 6u? It's a costco-only model (not even on panny website). No MSRP available, the only price anywhere is the costco price...


Under these circumstances can someone post or PM me the amount?


Prices are not allowed.....MSRP ONLY.

Just bought one today after researching and saw that my neighbor bought one yesterday. Funny, we both returned Philips plasmas. Costco took them back with a smile.

Anyway, it has 2 HDMI but no front panel connections. That is the only difference I see.

So far so good. It looks great in HD and SD is much better than the Philips.

Does the PX6U have a QAM tuner for getting clear digital channels from cable.

Thanks.

Costco is selling the Panasonic TH42PX6U. (seen in the Sterling VA store 10-Jun-06.) In keeping with Costco's usual practice, it is a slight variant of a standard model, the TH42PX60. Two apparent differences: The 6U has a PC monitor input port (described as such on the shelf tag), and does not have an SD card input (even though the shelf tag indicated it did, the box does not make mention one as a feature nor is there a slot to be found on the display model.) A stand is included plus 1yr parts & labor w/inhome svc.

Has anyone seen a larger size besides the 42"? I hope they get a 50" as well.

Costco has the 42PHD8UK and 65PHD8UK online, but NOT the 50PHD8UK, they have the 50PM50U available as a 50 incher. Does anyone know if they have sold the 50PHD8UK in the past, or might in the future? Online or in store, doesn't matter...

Joe.

QJoe,

They used to sell the 50HD8UK. About a month ago, I was set to buy it and it disappeared. But the next day, I saw it and ordered it; it disappeared soon afterwards.

It may come back - keep checking their site periodically.

Thanks - I'll keep checking.....

According to Costco Magazine, 45" Sharp Aquos LCD TV coming to warehouses "this month". The model number is LC-40C45U. I suspect the number is transposed in the online version of the magazine and it should be LC-45C40U ??. Item #145140. Is this a Costcoized version of the LC-45D40U???
no numbers transposed. saw these at costco yesterday 45" lc-40c45u printed right on the boxes. wish i could find more info about these. i'm done dealing with the 50" vizio plasma and want to make the switch to a 45" lcd. anybody with any info on these?

joe D, does it have tuners?

Yes it does. My SD feeds are very clear. Use DirecTV HD TiVo

I saw the Sharp 27sh10u this weekend at Costco. I am looking for a two LCDs for the bedroom and treadmill to complement the Samsung 43" DLP I have for home theater. The sharp looked pretty nice, but I couldn't tell what the difference was between that and the D line they have on their site. Also, was wondering whether anyone likes the Sceptre 27 or 32" models? Also wondering about the Phillips 23" inch model they have available.
thanks

Just joined guys, our old tv set finally bit the dust last night. We live in a narrow baltimore city row home so looking for a flat panel for wall hanging in the 32-37 inch range. Going to costco for the purchase tonight any recommendations.

the vizio 37 inch lcd isnt bad...also they have a 32 or 40 inch sony LCD. for a little more. and i think you may find the new 32 or 37 inch panasonic LCD. they dont carry37 inch plasmas.

I agree with dtrell about the Visio. I have been thinking about picking one up. It is tough to make a decision though. If you have time and there is more than one store in your area then check them both out. We have two in St louis and one store will typically have stuff the other store doesn't. I stopped by one store Saturday and they didn't have any Sony LCDs that day.

Steve

Thanks

Picked up the sony 32 bravia new kdl 2000 was a little more than I wanted to spend but figured it was worth it. Very pleased so far...

Just found out with the digital turner I am picking up the comcast hdtv channels they try to charge 5 dollars a month for...very happy..

Just found out with the digital turner I am picking up the comcast hdtv channels they try to charge 5 dollars a month for...very happy..
The $5 will get you additional channels like ESPN-HD, ESPN2-HD, INHD1, INHD2, DISC-HD, and HD versions of the movie channels you subscribe to, in addition to VOD.

Whether that is worth $5 to you is a different question.

yes, i find it hard to believe that he is getting the channels you mentioned sfhub. NO cable system is going to leave most of those channels in the clear. Hes probably getting all the local digital channels and discovery HD in the clear.

The $5 will get you additional channels like ESPN-HD, ESPN2-HD, INHD1, INHD2, DISC-HD, and HD versions of the movie channels you subscribe to, in addition to VOD.

Whether that is worth $5 to you is a different question.


Was saying I get all those channels without subscribing or paying anything to comcast. The sony has a separate digital turner and pulled all the local networks hdtv broadcast channels plus espn, discoveryhd, inhd1, etc, etc...also picked up the musical choice channels for some reason...

Now trying to get TiVo to recongize and find those channels is the issue...

Was saying I get all those channels without subscribing or paying anything to comcast. The sony has a separate digital turner and pulled all the local networks hdtv broadcast channels plus espn, discoveryhd, inhd1, etc, etc...also picked up the musical choice channels for some reason...

Now trying to get TiVo to recongize and find those channels is the issue...

Even though you were getting the channels it is likely that they were being sent out to your TV via SD (480i). A colleague of mine told me exactly the same thing and he does not even have an HD TV!

Even though you were getting the channels it is likely that they were being sent out to your TV via SD (480i). A colleague of mine told me exactly the same thing and he does not even have an HD TV!

Comcast's company policy is to send out all HD locals in the clear over QAM. These are not 480i, but full HD feeds.

Here in Metro Detroit they are also broadcasting their entire ADS (Analog Digital Simulcast) in clear QAM. In addition to a few digital-tier channels and music.

This means than ANY Comcast subscriber can plug their cable into a QAM tuner and receive these feeds for no additional cost.
I get ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, WB, PBS and TNT in the clear. For an additional $5/month I can get a HD digital tuner box which will give me ESPN, ESPN2, and Discovery in HD.

Comcast's company policy is to send out all HD locals in the clear over QAM. These are not 480i, but full HD feeds.

Here in Metro Detroit they are also broadcasting their entire ADS (Analog Digital Simulcast) in clear QAM. In addition to a few digital-tier channels and music.

This means than ANY Comcast subscriber can plug their cable into a QAM tuner and receive these feeds for no additional cost.
I get ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, WB, PBS and TNT in the clear. For an additional $5/month I can get a HD digital tuner box which will give me ESPN, ESPN2, and Discovery in HD.

I will have to check how ESPN was being sent. I certainly was watching it after the game last night and thought it was 1080i but it was also after midnight so I may be wrong.

I bought the Sony KDL-40S20L1 at Sam's Club. Like some of you I couldn't find much info about it. I did an on-line chat with a Sony Rep just now and he said that model is not for sale in the U.S. and is not a valid U.S. model number. He also said that all stores that are authorized to sell Sony TV's are only selling U.S. models. I told him I bought it in Virginia and he suggested I call Customer Service. This has me very concerned! Anyone have any thoughts on this?

I will have to check how ESPN was being sent. I certainly was watching it after the game last night and thought it was 1080i but it was also after midnight so I may be wrong.

Yes, I believe ESPN broadcasts in 1080i.

I bought the Sony KDL-40S20L1 at Sam's Club. Like some of you I couldn't find much info about it. I did an on-line chat with a Sony Rep just now and he said that model is not for sale in the U.S. and is not a valid U.S. model number. He also said that all stores that are authorized to sell Sony TV's are only selling U.S. models. I told him I bought it in Virginia and he suggested I call Customer Service. This has me very concerned! Anyone have any thoughts on this?


You bought a warehouse store branded Sony KDL-40S2000 I just picked up the Sony KDL -32S20L1 at Costco.

From everything I have read there is absolutely not one single difference between the S2000 and the S20L1 expect where they sell.

I just thought it was odd that Sony knew nothing about this model. I also want to make sure they will honor the warranty if I need it in the next 12 months.
Also, where have you found anything to read about the 20L1 model? I can't find anything anywhere.

ESPN's HD broadcasts are 720p, not 1080i.

Anyone an expert on Best Buy Open Box deals. Was going to purchase an open box HP 4260 today, but changed my mind. The new ones were selling for less than the open box one. I thought and was originally told that they would reduce the open box HP Plasma to adjust for the sales price of the new non open box one. One would think that the open box one would at least be priced the same and then I may have still purchased it.

Anyone know just what the policy is or is it up to each store. Just doesn't make sense that they would have a new one priced less than the open box priced one without adjusting the open box price also.

To Add - after being told they would reduce the price of the open box Plasma the salesman came back and said they could not.

I'm getting a 50" Plasma very soon. I have horrific luck with electronics longevity and so I like Costco's return policy on a new technology purchase like this. Our local Costco is huge, but for whatever reason they always have a pretty craptacular selection of instore 50" models on display. Went yesterday and they had a Vizio, Maxent and Dell on display. I'll buy two of each.

Costco online currently has the Panny Model TH-50PM50U and the Pio Model PDP505MX. The latter aesthetically better looking. But it's got no HDMI. I also have no idea which model the Pio is a derivative of, because I find Costco's online specs to be frequently erroneous and misleading (10000 to 1 contrast ratios, 579 billion colors, etc.). I love the Panny's picture but have a hard time getting past its lackluster body styling and that fugly low panel speaker.

I've heard early speculation that the initial knocks on the newest Panny generation (the 600U is very nice looking with a lot of features) is that the image quality is not as good as the last one. Also heard that you generally don't need all the features it has.

So which should I buy? Or do they both suck and should I just wait?

get the 50in toshiba on sale this week

Costco online currently has the Panny Model TH-50PM50U and the Pio Model PDP505MX.

I've heard early speculation that the initial knocks on the newest Panny generation (the 600U is very nice looking with a lot of features) is that the image quality is not as good as the last one. Also heard that you generally don't need all the features it has.

So which should I buy? Or do they both suck and should I just wait?

The Panny that Costco is selling is an 8th generation, not the current 9th generation.
If you believe the people who say that the current is not as good as the previous, then this may be the one you want.

Personally, I've played with the 9th generation in the stores and after dialing down the settings to normal viewing levels, I was flat-out floored by the PQ. Of course, I didn't have a previous generation to compare it to, but I also won't have anything else to compare it to in my HT... ;)

The only Toshiba I see on their site is a 20" LCD. Regardless, why do you recommend Toshiba?

I've read some threads here that claim Panasonic juiced up the feature set and lowered the cost to remain the price leader and that the PQ didn't seem so hot, but it's good to hear a different story on that. Using past history as a guide, it will likely be a while before Costco starts selling a 9th generation Panny model, right?

So what is this Pioneer model anyway?

Dandoshan, send me a private message I might be able to help you get an open box item at Best Buy for a price you are willing to pay. I don't want to break forum policy by posting information on Coupons, etc. and when i tried to PM you, it would not allow me. So if you are still looking to get that TV send me a message.

costco has the 9th gen panel panny now in stock in the form of a 42in, model is th42-px6u, i kid u not.

Comcast's company policy is to send out all HD locals in the clear over QAM. These are not 480i, but full HD feeds.

Here in Metro Detroit they are also broadcasting their entire ADS (Analog Digital Simulcast) in clear QAM. In addition to a few digital-tier channels and music.

This means than ANY Comcast subscriber can plug their cable into a QAM tuner and receive these feeds for no additional cost.
I get ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, WB, PBS and TNT in the clear. For an additional $5/month I can get a HD digital tuner box which will give me ESPN, ESPN2, and Discovery in HD.

His TV is an old CRT SD TV. Though box might be able to decode the HD feed the signal it is sending out to the TV is still 480i. Otherwise how will the CRT display it?

The two industrial models Costco is selling online at the moment are the TH-65PHD8UK and the 42PHD8UK. Those are both 8th gen, aren't they?

Speaking of that, what really is the difference between 1024 x 768 and 1366 x 768 resolution? The Pioneer PDP505MX has 1280, the Panasonic 50PM50U has 1366 and the Panasonic 42PHD8UK has 1024. Is this a spec I should care about, or is it all HD and not that big a deal in terms of incremental screen res? Seems like more lines = better picture (provided all else is equal).

His TV is an old CRT SD TV. Though box might be able to decode the HD feed the signal it is sending out to the TV is still 480i. Otherwise how will the CRT display it?

I now understand what you were trying to say.

Does anyone know if Sears, Circuit City or non-Magnolia Best Buy's will carry the Panasonic TH-50PX600U or will it have to be ordered from Panasonic direct only?

costco has the 9th gen panel panny now in stock in the form of a 42in, model is th42-px6u, i kid u not.


I picked this set up today, to replace my nightmare Philips plasma that is going back to Best Buy tomorrow. Can you BELIEVE I get the Panasonic home, and it has a large crack in the screen, at least 8 inches long??? Back it goes to Costco. I now have 2 broken plasmas in my minivan to return. (Philips has terminal black screen of death situation/less than 30 days of use)

Anyway. I have been analyzing the wiring. The first thing I wish it had was Digital Audio input. I would use this for sound with my HDMI, cable box only has DV1. Now I must run the red/white audio wires instead. Also, the Philips allowed you to assign the digital audio cable to whatever set of inputs you wished. I think I must run audio wires for each set of inputs here. Second, I do not think it has side inputs?? (its already back in the box) So, I will run a set of standard wires for video games, just in case. I will keep the digital audio cable for possible future output sound system use. No USB port for hooking in digital camera.

Has anyone purchased the Philips 32inch LCD from Costco? How does this LCD compare to other 32inchers? I was actually planning to purchase the vizio but it didn't look nearly as nice as the philips to me. Is the philips lcd worth that price or am I better off looking at a different brand? Thanks for any input

does Costco ever carry Panny plasmas bigger than 50" in store? much to my happiness my wife and I were looking at tv's last night and she thought 50" was too small, that 60" looked good :D

I bought a Philips 37" LCD TV in January and I love it. Now the same TV is less and they told me I could return mine and get a refund and then buy a new one. I suggested just give me the difference in price and they said that is not how they do things.

Questons:

1. Do the 37" model and the 42" models have the same specs?
2. Will the stores carry the 42" or will it just be online?
3. Will they sell both 37" and 42' for the same price or will the 37" drop as well?
Thanks!

Costco has the 50" Toshiba until 6/18. Anyone have positive or negative experiences to share? Earlier in this thread someone mentioned that the non-HD PQ is very bad. Is this true?

The two industrial models Costco is selling online at the moment are the TH-65PHD8UK and the 42PHD8UK. Those are both 8th gen, aren't they? )

See, I don't get Costco's strategy here. Today, 6/16, they have the 50" 8UK on their website. I'm sure this has to do with their ability to get the panels from Panasonic, but couldn't they come up with a steadier stocking philosophy? I really want this panel, but I don't yet have the funds all lined up. Also, I wanted to buy the appropriate blades and mount before I get the TV home. Should I just go ahead and pull the trigger?

Also, can anyone give, preferably in percentages, what kind of discount on the 8UK line we will see when the 9UK line is available at retail stores? I wouldn't mind waiting until later this summer to grab an 8UK, but I just want to make sure that they're still going to be available at Costco...at present it seems like a crapshoot. Thanks in advance

See, I don't get Costco's strategy here.

The reason you don't *get* Costco's strategy is probably because they don't have one. :rolleyes: Products seem to appear and disappear on their online site on a daily basis. And just because it appears on the site doesn't mean that the product will be shipped anytime soon. So there's no guarantee that the 8UK will return once they run out of stock.

Don't forget to check your local warehouse periodically. Their inventory is always very different from the on-line site.

I'm with you rxn. It is VERY scattershot. I think they stock what they can negotiate for a good price, and that's it. Doesn't appear to be much strategy, and warehouse stores typically don't feel the same need as big box retailers to keep a consistent and steady stock of any given brand.

In terms of a price drop, the prices are already pretty low, and I don't think there's a ton of perceived value in the new lines. It all looks incremental to me. I'd be surprised if these displays drop more than 15% off their lows. Plasmas are selling like hotcakes everywhere, so the demand is still there and they don't need to deal.

I use Comcast (unfortunately) and will have to use either their card or box to receive the HD signal, so the pro 50" is appealing to me from that respect. Only one HDMI port, but it's better than none. I like the 50" 600U, but who knows how long the 9th gen pro and consumer models will take to arrive.

So is it transposed or is it a different TV? The spec look identical, but I want to ensure before I made a purchase.. Again - Costco's web site lists LC40C37U, and the model on Sharp's site is LC-37D40U. Seems close enough... :)

I hooked up the Panasonic 42" Plasma TH42-PX6U today, from Costco. It looks FANTASTIC. We are very happy. It is mounted on my wall and replaced a defective Philips. Picture appears sharper, too. I guess this set will not get it's own thread, it is limited in production to Costco, but I am VERY happy.

We concluded that wall mounting is a big pain, but looks VERY cool. It our room, it saves much needed space, too.

I had to exchange the first one, that I got yesterday, it had a large 8" crack in the screen. They kind of acted weird about the return, at first. I SWEAR, we did not cause this, but I felt like they thought we did. We never even plugged it in. After it was approved, the employee told me I have 3 years to return the plasma tv. I said, 3 years? Because I did not know there was a "set" limit. She said, well 3 years, after that it needs a manager's approval. Bottom line, we have 3 years NOT to deal with service plans, etc, but 3 years to RETURN. Thats AMAZING. I have been a costco member for many years, but never really understood their policy, never knew it was so good I mean.

I hooked up the Panasonic 42" Plasma TH42-PX6U today, from Costco. It looks FANTASTIC. We are very happy.


I noticed it today, it is nice. Can you give me a break down on the specs? The box only listed certain details. I know there's two HDMI's. Thanks!


:)

Hi,

I am new to the forum and I see that there is alot of information and good resources here..

I work at Best Buy in the Computer Department, not the TV Department! lol :)

I am setting up a system that consists of my laptop, klipsch promedia 2.1 speakers and a LCD TV....

My problem is that of course i dont want to spend alot of money on a tv, but i still want good quality and a PC Input for my laptop. I do play computer games on my laptop...

I get a pretty good discount on TV's since I work at Best Buy but I dont know what is good for the price...

I was checking out Westinghouse LTV-19w6 which I get a pretty good deal on from Best Buy...

I also found this on Costco's website but have never heard of the name brand Envision
20" LCD TV

Could you guys/girls please help me figure out what the cheapest decent LCD tv is for my...

I dont have much space.. my desk is a corner desk and my laptop sits in the part where a "desktop" monitor goes and I have a spot above the which I could fix a 20" LCD tv max..

Thanks for your help in advanced..

PS: (if this is the wrong place to post please let me know and move to the right place)

~Jeff~

Two days and it's off the site. Man, that was quick. :mad:

I'm planning on getting a 42" plasma in the near future. I am considering Panasonic, Pioneer and maybe Samsung. Any suggestion appreciated, it's mostly for watching Movies and TV shows in a fairly dimly lit room.

I saw the 42" Panasonic TH42PX6U at Costco. Is it the latest?
I am also wondering if Costco will have the new Pioneers once they are announced.

Thanks!

I had to exchange the first one, that I got yesterday, it had a large 8" crack in the screen. They kind of acted weird about the return, at first. I SWEAR, we did not cause this, but I felt like they thought we did. We never even plugged it in. After it was approved, the employee told me I have 3 years to return the plasma tv. I said, 3 years? Because I did not know there was a "set" limit. She said, well 3 years, after that it needs a manager's approval. Bottom line, we have 3 years NOT to deal with service plans, etc, but 3 years to RETURN. Thats AMAZING. I have been a costco member for many years, but never really understood their policy, never knew it was so good I mean.
the offical costco policy, other than on computers, is "satisfaction guaranteed" PERIOD...there is NO set time limit (computers is 6 months). ANY set time limit is a function of the individual store and that store's general manager....the one at your store must have just pulled 3 years out of thin air and told his employees to say that.

I'm not one that normally buys extended warranties, but the wife insisted on it if I were to get my Pioneer 5040 plasma about 1 1/2 years ago, that was an easy decision :) . So I coughed up another $400 for a 4 year warranty just to get the TV home. Fortunately they were closing out that model and the price had been reduced $2500 and I also got about $800 in gift cards/reward zone certificates so I didn't feel to bad about the $400.

Shortly after the standard 1 year warranty had expired (of course) I noticed the cooling fan in the media unit was starting to make a whining sound, kind of like a bad hard drive in a computer. After living with it for a few months I called BB expecting to get the run around but was pleasantly surprised when the call was picked up immediately, they had all my info in there computer system and then they ordered a service call all within a few minutes! Wow! I was shocked, after hearing all the negative comments about BB and extended warranties in general.

The service tech (not a BB employee) was excellent and since parts had to be ordered from Pioneer it took a few weeks before the media unit was quite again. The bill would have been $260 so I'm still down a few bucks but I'm feeling better about extended warranties now and of course the wife isn't letting me forget about her insight. :)

I'm not one that normally buys extended warranties, but the wife insisted on it if I were to get my Pioneer 5040 plasma about 1 1/2 years ago, that was an easy decision :) . So I coughed up another $400 for a 4 year warranty just to get the TV home. Fortunately they were closing out that model and the price had been reduced $2500 and I also got about $800 in gift cards/reward zone certificates so I didn't feel to bad about the $400.

Shortly after the standard 1 year warranty had expired (of course) I noticed the cooling fan in the media unit was starting to make a whining sound, kind of like a bad hard drive in a computer. After living with it for a few months I called BB expecting to get the run around but was pleasantly surprised when the call was picked up immediately, they had all my info in there computer system and then they ordered a service call all within a few minutes! Wow! I was shocked, after hearing all the negative comments about BB and extended warranties in general.

The service tech (not a BB employee) was excellent and since parts had to be ordered from Pioneer it took a few weeks before the media unit was quite again. The bill would have been $260 so I'm still down a few bucks but I'm feeling better about extended warranties now and of course the wife isn't letting me forget about her insight. :)

i've worked at Best Buy here in Maryland for 3 years now and the extended service plan does come in handy at times.

All the negative comments are from people who either didnt get the extended service plan or they want the part to be there the next day and it cant happen. In your case it was a few weeks.

My mom bought a Toshiba Laptop about 1 1/2 years ago and her screen hinges wore out and she had the 3 year extended service plan and it was fixed at no extra cost. if she didnt have the service plan it would have been around $600 for a new screen from Toshiba...

I believe that Sam's Club has the best return policy on HDTVs. You can return at any time, no time limit. At least that is what they told me when I bought the Viore about a year ago. So far, have had no return to test the policy

I noticed it today, it is nice. Can you give me a break down on the specs? The box only listed certain details. I know there's two HDMI's. Thanks!


:)

I am not sure which specs to list. The audio out is not the same type of cable I had wired originally, it is a different type of plug, but I have no sound system yet anyway. NO side or front inputs, so I just ran a standard set of wires, and also a spare set of component wires for possible future use, or in case something craps out. I am using both HDMI inputs, one with my upconverting DVd player, one with a DV1 converter and my cable box. It seemed to set up easy. Standard TV looks pretty good, and VERY important, my Tivo looks ok. I am using a splitter and my Series 2 regular Tivo Box. I cannot record premium stations, but I have lifetime service ont his Tivo, so whatever use I get is great.

Hey, I was at Sam's Club and was looking at a Phillips 32" LCD TV and wrote down the model number 32PF5320A. I look on Phillips website and can't find it.

The two closest are: 32PF7320A and 32PF5321D.


Any ideas to which model I was looking at? I can't remember the exact specs enough to know which one I was looking at.