Does anyone know what the current availability and delivery turnaround on the Panny 50PX60U is from Costco.com? TIA

the 50px6U (not 60U) is in alot of stores now.

Does Anyone Know Anything About The Eyefi Plasma Sets Being Sold By Sams Club? Anyone Bought One? Anyone Seen A Review?

the 50px6U (not 60U) is in alot of stores now.I ordered the 60U and was just curious if actual delivery was really running around the quoted 20 business days.

When I first read this I laughed when I read that you stopped watching DVD's until the Oppo arrived. After I hooked up my new Oppo DV-970HD tonight I am no longer laughing! I cant belive the difference in quality with the hdmi and upconversion..this is what I bought the 45 inch Sharp for!! I just finished watching the Vader / Luke saber duel in ROTJ for the fourth time! Thanks for the tip! :D
Jbungie....just so you know...and i dont want to piss on your parade by any stretch but the oppo OPDV971H with dvi output(use dvi to hdmi cable) is supposed to be EVEN BETTER than the oppo you have as it has the faroujda chip in it which is supposed to be all that and like 20 bags of chips. Just an FYI...enjoy

Just a question that has probably been touched upon before but....... If Sam's, Costco, etc. return policies are such that everyone says they are, why do they sell extended warranties on their products? In other words, if I can return a television after 2-3 years if it breaks, why spend the money on a 3 year extended warranty? It does not make sense that they even sell these if that is indeed the case.

Thanks.

This is my first post. Does anyone know anything about the Sceptre 37" Komodo LCD [EDIT] I'd appreciate any and all input.

Jbungie....just so you know...and i dont want to piss on your parade by any stretch but the oppo OPDV971H with dvi output(use dvi to hdmi cable) is supposed to be EVEN BETTER than the oppo you have as it has the faroujda chip in it which is supposed to be all that and like 20 bags of chips. Just an FYI...enjoy


Ya, I saw that after I placed my order! No biggie, I am happy with what I got..thanks again for the info!

I ordered the 60U and was just curious if actual delivery was really running around the quoted 20 business days.

Yes, I would also like to know Costco's delivery schedule as of late.

They also have the Vizio for that price and here's a thread to that tv...

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=607501

Just a question that has probably been touched upon before but....... If Sam's, Costco, etc. return policies are such that everyone says they are, why do they sell extended warranties on their products? In other words, if I can return a television after 2-3 years if it breaks, why spend the money on a 3 year extended warranty? It does not make sense that they even sell these if that is indeed the case.

Thanks.

I dont think Costco sells extended warranties do they?

I dont think Costco sells extended warranties do they?

I actually asked them the same thing and they said they do not, BUT you can basically return the item anytime.

Maxent MX-5020HPM

The specs sure look nice on this. The costco by me has 15 of them in stock so Im going by there today hopefully they will have one out and hooked to a good source. Price sure seems right for the features......any other thoughts?

Maxent MX-5020HPM

The specs sure look nice on this. The costco by me has 15 of them in stock so Im going by there today hopefully they will have one out and hooked to a good source. Price sure seems right for the features......any other thoughts?

I saw one quickly at my Costco and tried to fiddle with the menu settings...I couldn't quite get things looking right compared to the Panny next to it...I've learned though you can't judge things in the store unfortunately...

Maxent MX-5020HPM

The specs sure look nice on this. The costco by me has 15 of them in stock so Im going by there today hopefully they will have one out and hooked to a good source. Price sure seems right for the features......any other thoughts?

I bought one there and have no regrets...though the wife thinks it's too big! ;)

I bought one there and have no regrets...though the wife thinks it's too big! ;)

Cool...so there isn't too much noise especially with SD sources?...I couldn't get rid of the noise at the big C but who knows how they had it connected...

I bought one there and have no regrets...though the wife thinks it's too big! ;)

I saw this for the first time the other day and it looked very nice.
Do you know if it has discrete power on/off as well as direct input selection?

I dont think Costco sells extended warranties do they?

I'm sorry I did not know that. I do not have any Costco in my area

I know Sam's does. I put Sam's and Costco together because they both have the same return policy as far as I know.

I am a longtime Costco member and was ready to buy the Sharp Aquos LC-45D40U this week .... until..... I noticed the TV is available at Buydig for significantly less. Even if you buy the 3- year extended service warranty on Buydig it is hundreds less than at Costco.

I love Costco's return plan (what's not to love, right?), but is it really worth hundreds more for the Costco "peace of mind" over the 3-year MACK extended plan at buydig?

What do you guys think?

Thanks in advance for your feedback.

I am a longtime Costco member and was ready to buy the Sharp Aquos LC-45D40U this week .... until..... I noticed the TV is available at Buydig for significantly less. Even if you buy the 3- year extended service warranty on Buydig it is hundreds less than at Costco.

I love Costco's return plan (what's not to love, right?), but is it really worth hundreds more for the Costco "peace of mind" over the 3-year MACK extended plan at buydig?

What do you guys think?

Thanks in advance for your feedback.


I just made a very similar choice myself. I decided to get my 50" Panny PX60U elsewhere because it was $600+ less than Costco.

Hello,

Sorry to post here if not the right thread, it says Costco, so here goes.

My brother purchased a Philips LCD Model 30PF9946D/37 from Costco.

It will give a ghost or burn-in image anytime closed caption, weather channel or any banner is on the screen. It takes 1 day to recover from a 1 hour exposure to a banner like this.

I did some searches and found some hints to use contrast and brightness, and also reference to firmware updates and anti-aging circuits on new models, but it seems kind of strange to see such a problem on a small LCD.

Anyone familiar with this kind of thing? Any idea of what causes it? I thought burn-in was more of a Plasma or CRT issue, not LCD?

He called tech support but they would not talk to him because its out of warranty, they want $15 to talk now. He has had the problem since day 1, but is busy and traveling all the time and just now hit his limit on the problem.

Do you think there is a fix with a tech service call or should he just box it back up and take it back to Costco?

Any ideas appreciated.

Thanks.

Cool...so there isn't too much noise especially with SD sources?...I couldn't get rid of the noise at the big C but who knows how they had it connected...

This was my big disappointment upon getting the TV home. Watching DVDs (on my cheap DVD player) was unbearable with false contouring and noise.

With some help from folks on this forum, I was able to get it dialed in with lower sharpness and color settings. I am certainly not the most critical watcher on these forums, but even DVDs now look pretty good on it. Noise was mainly a result of sharpness being too high, I guess.

SD from the cable box is only decent, but noise isn't the issue so much as that...well, it's SD. Watching it on a 50" set brings out all the flaws. But the HD stuff looks spectacular.

One thing - as far as I can tell, the Maxent does not have the option to stretch incoming signals. So I have set the cable box to stretch the output for SD channels, at least for the break-in period.

I imagine the scaler in this unit is not the best from SD, as it even says it's optomized for HD signals. My plan down the line is to get an upconverting player of some sort (waiting first for the PS3 to come out to see how it functions as a DVD / BD).

I saw this for the first time the other day and it looked very nice.
Do you know if it has discrete power on/off as well as direct input selection?

Uh...you'll have to educate me as to what "discrete power on/off" is. If you mean a power button, then yea, it's got one. ;)

Direct input selection - the remote has the ability to select individual inputs.

Hello, long time lurker, just posted for the first time. I just called my local Costco, and they finally got the VIZIO 42" plasma in this morning!!!....Im so stoked, ive been reading and researching this tv for a long time and have been waiting for costco to receive a new shipment. I will heading up this afternoon to get me one. The price is pretty dang good too.

Any thoughts?
Any experiences? ( i know there are threads and have read them, just curious though)

thanks

Hello everyone, first time poster, long time reader. I bought the VIZIO L13 TVJ10 at the local Costco (Rancho Del Rey, San Diego) yesterday for use in the guest bedroom and I was wondering if anyone else has experience with this nice looking LCD. The floor model at Costco looked okay, and I figured if I'm not happy with it I'll just return it. I searched the forum and couldn't find any mention of it. Cox is coming out in a couple of days to activate the bedroom wall coax, but I would like to know about anyone's experience with it. Thanks

moderator

no coupon or sale talk please

thanks

moderator

no coupon talk please

thanks

The two local Costcos I go to usually have a stack at the front door.

moderator

coupon talk is not allowed

thanks

I have never thought to check them item for item. [EDIT]

[EDIT] The second-biggest item you get hit with when buying a big-screen TV online isn't the sales tax, even in high-tax states, but the *freight bill* (as those plasmas are Way Too Big to be shipped FedEx or UPS). I used the savings on shipping toward a two-year extended warranty on a Philips 42PF9630A (believe it or not, brand new and in the original carton).

For those of you on the East Coast that have dealt with Buy.com, I have a single question: How long did it take for your payment (when NOT paying by CC, but via cashier's check) to arrive?

Fed-Ex freight ships plasma's just fine. Mine is less than $150 being shipped 1700+ mines. That is on a 124lb box (50" plasma).

I realize I'm probably urinating up a rope with this question..but does anyone know if Costco will be carrying any of the Samsung 32" LCD's in the near future?

I'd love to see either the LN-S3251D pr the LN-S3296D show up in Costco....I'd be there in a heartbeat.

The second-biggest item you get hit with when buying a big-screen TV online isn't the sales tax, even in high-tax states, but the *freight bill* (as those plasmas are Way Too Big to be shipped FedEx or UPS).

If you look around you can find the shipping included though. :o

Any news if Vizio is coming out with a 46" lcd, I thought I read something about it in this thread? Any news would be Great.....Thanks

Hi Guys!

I'm planning on buying the 37" Westy in Samsclub and I was wondering how good their return policies are compared to Costco? I know for a fact that the Westy box will not fit in my car so I would have to leave it. Will I have a problem returning it to Samsclub without the box?

Thanks!

- JOhn

Well I just called Vizio's home office and asked about the 46" lcd and they said it was in the works but not until next year, darn I wanted it for this football season....I have the 32" and 37" lcd I might have to go with the 50" plasma Vizio until the 46" comes out..... ;)

For those who might be interested, Costco's online store added the dark gray bezel commercial Panny 50PH9UK to their inventory yesterday.

Includes the same full refund-for-any-reason warranty as all Costco in-store plasma purchases.

Costco's plasmas are typically at least one generation old, but the 9UK's are the latest generation, released less than two months ago.

Based on personal experience, my Costco motto is "Here today, gone tomorrow!"

Can anybody answer a quick question for me?
I have a Vizio 37" LCD set I bought at SAMS. year warranty.
I have a list of problems with it.
I want to return it and get a 42" plasma.
Will they let me return it?
If so, will they refund the whole amount I paid for the warranty?
I got it in March.

Thanks.

For those who might be interested, Costco's online store added the dark gray bezel commercial Panny 50PH9UK to their inventory yesterday.

Includes the same full refund-for-any-reason warranty as all Costco in-store plasma purchases.

Costco's plasmas are typically at least one generation old, but the 9UK's are the latest generation, released less than two months ago.

Based on personal experience, my Costco motto is "Here today, gone tomorrow!"

Have you ever had a TV with extended warranty sold by Costco, and needed repairs?
If yes, how is their service? Fast ? Covered what they said ?

thanks

All inputs/stories about other retailers extended warranty very welcome.

I don't believe Costco offers an extended Warranty.

I went to Sam's Club today to buy the 37" Westy and I was surprised that they were offering an extended Warranty. I thought they carried the same Return Policy as Costco?

- JOhn

Do the prices for Panasonic plasmas at Costco historically ever "change" after they have been out for awhile like the Vizios, etc?

I won't get too specific, but the price at costco for the 9UK is similar to an average online place with the extended warranty, so it would be close to a wash. but i would rather just charge it to my amex, get a 2 yr warranty, and save the cost of the warranty.
obviously, ymmv...

I won't get too specific, but the price at costco for the 9UK is similar to an average online place with the extended warranty, so it would be close to a wash. but i would rather just charge it to my amex, get a 2 yr warranty, and save the cost of the warranty.
obviously, ymmv...


Costco's own warranty consists of a guaranteed full 100% money back refund if the item is returned by the purchaser with the original receipt for ANY reason. This policy has no time limitations or expiration dates. It is a lifetime warranty, and it costs nothing. Hence, technically, no repair warranty whatsoever is required on a Costco plasma.

If the set ever has any malfunction or failure, you can return it to any Costco store, get your money back on the spot, and buy another brand new plasma. The only potential drawback is that Costco may not be stocking the replacement set of your choice at the time of return.

This warranty policy is unequalled in the industry.

Costco's own warranty consists of a guaranteed full 100% money back refund if the item is returned by the purchaser with the original receipt for ANY reason. This policy has no time limitations or expiration dates. It is a lifetime warranty, and it costs nothing. Hence, technically, no repair warranty whatsoever is required on a Costco plasma.

If the set ever has any malfunction or failure, you can return it to any Costco store, get your money back on the spot, and buy another brand new plasma. The only potential drawback is that Costco may not be stocking the replacement set of your choice at the time of return.

This warranty policy is unequalled in the industry.

Yes it is as you specify for now..... Witness the "exclusion" of computers from this policy and limiting returns to a period of 6 months. And still this policy is also "unequalled in the industry."

Though it has been hinted Costco's buying power allows them to require merchants to accept returns by contract, I wonder what was the "straw that broke the camel's back" with the current desktop/laptop return policy?

Tiggerzz

Anyone know if the Sam's Club return policy is close to Costcos?

- JOHn

I heard that Costco stopped taking back computers because people were returning them as soon as newer technology was available....free upgrades. Figuring it takes some real JERKS to mess up a good and consumer friendly policy. I'm hoping that the return policy for TV's doesn't change for the same reason.

Just read the rules at your local Costco, people.

1. Computers at Costco have a 6 month return policy; and

2. Anything else can be brought back at any time.

That's it.

I agree, however, that eventually Costco will change it's return policy; they've been under pressure from the Street for years to toughen it up.

I won't get too specific, but the price at costco for the 9UK is similar to an average online place with the extended warranty, so it would be close to a wash. but i would rather just charge it to my amex, get a 2 yr warranty, and save the cost of the warranty.
obviously, ymmv...

What I mean is though, will that price for the 9UK ever be different after it's been out for awhile or does Panny work differently than others?

What I mean is though, will that price for the 9UK ever be different after it's been out for awhile or does Panny work differently than others?


It will come down a small amount when they are closing them out to bring in the newer model. It happened with the last set of Pioneer's they had. I also noticed that the PX6U was a couple of hundred less in store than it is on their website right now.

If I were buying a Maxent, I would definitley get it only at Costco b/c of their return policy. But since I'm getting the Panny, I feel more confident that if something happens, it will happen in the 1st two years (as you probably know, buying with amex doubles the manufacturer's warranty). As I'm stretching every penny to get the Panny, I really don't have the extra 4 benjis to get it at Costco, and w/o the hdmi card...

Does anybody knows anything about costco getting some 1080P sets different than waht they have right now? I am specially interested in the 37" sharp Sharp LC-37D90U 1080P TV, is been coming down in price at different stores online, but I don't want to buy anywhere else than costco.

I don't believe Costco offers an extended Warranty.

I went to Sam's Club today to buy the 37" Westy and I was surprised that they were offering an extended Warranty. I thought they carried the same Return Policy as Costco?

- JOhn
That happened to me too...
which is why I didnt purchase my tv at sams but at costco.
Since then Ive been enjoying my 45" Sharp lcd from costco immensely.

That happened to me too...
which is why I didnt purchase my tv at sams but at costco.
Since then Ive been enjoying my 45" Sharp lcd from costco immensely.


Well, I bought an extended warranty from sams for my 37"vizio.
I am leaving in about 30 minutes to return it.

I called earlier and was told I could return everything and they would refund me the warranty price.

With the refunded money I am going to get the L42 vizio.

I will post back my experience returning it.
If they do it without a problem I don't suppose you need the warranty.

Still, 200$ for 4 years protection is a great deal and peace of mind should they change their policy.


****************UPDATE***********************

Just got back from SAMS. I returned the 37" Vizio and got a 42" Vizio.

The return was EASY. No hassle. They gave me all the money back from the TV and the Extended warranty.

I walked over and got the 42" and that was that.

The Vizio 42 LCD is SO MUCH BETTER than the 37" it isn't even funny.
The picture is clearer, brighter and colors are superb.
The remote works flawlessly as well.

Actually the picture is so much better it made me realize that the DVD player in the xbox 360 is limited to 480P....now I need a 720P dvd player!

Anyhoo, anybody owning the 37" Vizio should definately consider the 42" it really is great.

As for the return policy at SAMS, I would say it is pretty great also.

I originally purchased the 37" in March, so that is 5 months. Also, I had done a paper return on it in April, so the receipts were confusing, but still they didn't flinch about it, they just handed me all the money back in cash.

Funnier still the lady who did the return saw me checking out with the bigger set and came over and said, "Got the bigger one, huh?"
I said, "yeah" And she smiled and said, "Good luck with it!"

On a side note her butt was enormous. Disproportionate, the rest of her body was small and her butt was gargantuan. Oh well, I love her anyway for taking my return.

Bottom line, SAMS = COSTCO = ;)

Hi folks,
I'm considering ordering a 50" plasma from Amazon. Price is great, no tax, free white glove shipping. but...I see several extended 4yr warranties that don't seem to give details about what tv's they cover. They range between $120-$400. the least expensive one has the same description as the most expensive one...What gives? Why would I purchase the expensive one?
Thanks!

Costco's own warranty consists of a guaranteed full 100% money back refund if the item is returned by the purchaser with the original receipt for ANY reason. This policy has no time limitations or expiration dates. It is a lifetime warranty, and it costs nothing. Hence, technically, no repair warranty whatsoever is required on a Costco plasma.

If the set ever has any malfunction or failure, you can return it to any Costco store, get your money back on the spot, and buy another brand new plasma. The only potential drawback is that Costco may not be stocking the replacement set of your choice at the time of return.

This warranty policy is unequalled in the industry.

From what I ve read so far, I think Costco has the best return policy, hands down.

They dont even offer extended warranty (No need for it ) but everyone else does.

From what I ve read so far, I think Costco has the best return policy, hands down.
Today I returned a computer chair to Costco that we purchased one week ago. No problems at all, the person who handled our transaction was thankful we had the receipt, she said most people don't bring the receipt and that complicates the return process for the employee.

I mentioned the many folks on here that buy expensive TVs at Costco and later take advantage of the liberal return policy. She told me that on Thursday a fellow returned a console TV that he had purchased for $1700 in 1992 (when the store was Sams Club). He was refunded his full purchase price of $1700. That TV was fourteen years old!

She did mention that it's necessary to return everything...the remote, cables, connectors...everything that came in the box. But they don't want the box back.

Now that I think about it, when she said "...when it was Sams Club" doesn't sound right. I didn't think Costco and Sams Club were related.

Ya know, I'm not sure. I think that's what she said...

Dont laugh, I returned a stainless gas grill last year that I bought in 1998. When I called about getting a replacement burner for it, they stated that they dont deal with that manufacturer anymore. Then they suggested I bring it back for a refund. I told them that I really didnt want to do that, but they insisted, so off I went. I had the original receipt stapled to the manual and they gave me the full price back. Amazing! I added another $100 and got a brand new grill that was twice the size. So its not just TVs.

^^

I'm surprised that the ink of the receipt was still visible. :D My receipts always fade so I usually photocopy the receipt for backups.

- JOhn

Dont laugh, I returned a stainless gas grill last year that I bought in 1998. When I called about getting a replacement burner for it, they stated that they dont deal with that manufacturer anymore. Then they suggested I bring it back for a refund. I told them that I really didnt want to do that, but they insisted, so off I went. I had the original receipt stapled to the manual and they gave me the full price back. Amazing! I added another $100 and got a brand new grill that was twice the size. So its not just TVs.
I think the only exception to Costco's "return anything at any time" policy is personal computers (which must be less than six months old).

Costco's return policy seems way too liberal. But you know Costco is a very well run company, I'm sure they monitor their return policy and its costs. And they're making money, so the policy and the goodwill it creates stays.

not true, my gf had a hp computer that she bought from costco. she had it for like 3 or 4 years she said. one day lightning hit her house and fried the pc. she took it back to costco and got a 100% refund.

I decided to stop in my local BB today to check out the new 6071 since I haven't seen it yet.

When I walked in, it was all remodeled. They were constructing a Magnolia Home Theatre area to the side (I know this isn't new to a lot of you, but there were none in my area till now). However, the thing that did surprise me was that they also remodeled the whole flat panel area. Before they had about 4 rows of flat panels lined up along side of each other, where you could only stand about 4 ft back to get a view of them. In addition, the Panasonic and Pioneer were always in different rows, where you could never to do a good 1 on 1 comparison. Now, they had a whole wall of plasma's and lcd's where you could easily compare one to other and stand about 12-15ft back and get a much better view of them.

BUT, the big BUT was the feeds. As we all now the BB feeds are horrendous, with pixelation everywhere. However, I don't know what they did to improve it, but the feeds to all panels was actually great. I obviously wouldn't put it on par with HD DVD, but it was definitely in the ballpark of the HD I receive over Comcast. In addition, they had about 4 customer service reps walking around in grey shirts and ties helping folks out instead of the regular blue-shirt guys who are usually useless. Now, I didn't get to talk to any of them since I had to run, so they may end up being as useful as the blue-shirt folk, but hey at least they're trying.

So, has anyone else's BB been doing improvements to the setup and feeds as well? Are they actually listening to us? I for one, was pleasantly surprised today.

Unfortunately the 6071 was scheduled to be in the Magnolia once completed, so I never got a chance to see that or the 58px600, but hope to do so soon.

I hadn't been to my Best Buy in awhile either and I went up there on Thursday and it was all different. Like you said, the whole TV section was changed, and they had that new home theatre room with people in white shirts and ties working the area, and you couldn't turn around without another sales associate being right there, be it the blue shirts or the fancy tie guys, so it was virtually impossible to stand there unhelped for 30 minutes like before. The home theatre area is AWESOME too, and like you said, the feeds are GREATLY improved. A bunch of the TVs were playing the Discovery HD channel, man, praying mantises and grass never looked so good, lol. I walked in and there was a 64' Plasma right there and I just stopped in my tracks and stared for a full 3 minutes. My girlfriend was like "you are such a guy", lol. I like how not only are the plasmas and LCDs spaced out now so you can stand back at a more natural viewing distance, but I like how the lighting is setup like an actual living room so you can see the picture how it will look in your living room, not under the bright flourescnet lights in a huge open high-ceiling area.

not true, my gf had a hp computer that she bought from costco. she had it for like 3 or 4 years she said. one day lightning hit her house and fried the pc. she took it back to costco and got a 100% refund.
Probably before Costco changed the computer return policy.

Others have stated the current policy, I saw the sign at my local Costco yesterday. Six month limit. After that you deal with the manufactuers warranty.

not true, my gf had a hp computer that she bought from costco. she had it for like 3 or 4 years she said. one day lightning hit her house and fried the pc. she took it back to costco and got a 100% refund.

It is true the the liberal Costco return policy specifically EXCLUDES PCs. I do not know the extenuating circumastances surrounding your girlfriends experience, but I do know that you should not be making blanket statements like you did based on your limited information on one situation.

I have spoken with the local service desk at my Costco and they clearly told me, 100% guarantee warranty on all items excluding PCs and those have a SIX month warranty only.

If you want to say that you know the general rule may not be firm - then that is real and potentially beneficial information, but when you respond and say that it is not true, you are just plain wrong...

It is true the the liberal Costco return policy specifically EXCLUDES PCs. I do not know the extenuating circumastances surrounding your girlfriends experience, but I do know that you should not be making blanket statements like you did based on your limited information on one situation.

I have spoken with the local service desk at my Costco and they clearly told me, 100% guarantee warranty on all items excluding PCs and those have a SIX month warranty only.

If you want to say that you know the general rule may not be firm - then that is real and potentially beneficial information, but when you respond and say that it is not true, you are just plain wrong...

If she bought her computer before Costco modified their policy she would be well within her rights to return the item for a full refund.

I see that the Vizio P50HDTV10A is available through the Costco website.

Anyone know if there are plans to distribute this model through the local warehouses?

Well, I bought an extended warranty from sams for my 37"vizio.
I am leaving in about 30 minutes to return it.

I called earlier and was told I could return everything and they would refund me the warranty price.

With the refunded money I am going to get the L42 vizio.

I will post back my experience returning it.
If they do it without a problem I don't suppose you need the warranty.

Still, 200$ for 4 years protection is a great deal and peace of mind should they change their policy.


****************UPDATE***********************

Just got back from SAMS. I returned the 37" Vizio and got a 42" Vizio.

The return was EASY. No hassle. They gave me all the money back from the TV and the Extended warranty.

I walked over and got the 42" and that was that.

The Vizio 42 LCD is SO MUCH BETTER than the 37" it isn't even funny.
The picture is clearer, brighter and colors are superb.
The remote works flawlessly as well.

Actually the picture is so much better it made me realize that the DVD player in the xbox 360 is limited to 480P....now I need a 720P dvd player!

Anyhoo, anybody owning the 37" Vizio should definately consider the 42" it really is great.

As for the return policy at SAMS, I would say it is pretty great also.

I originally purchased the 37" in March, so that is 5 months. Also, I had done a paper return on it in April, so the receipts were confusing, but still they didn't flinch about it, they just handed me all the money back in cash.

Funnier still the lady who did the return saw me checking out with the bigger set and came over and said, "Got the bigger one, huh?"
I said, "yeah" And she smiled and said, "Good luck with it!"

On a side note her butt was enormous. Disproportionate, the rest of her body was small and her butt was gargantuan. Oh well, I love her anyway for taking my return.

Bottom line, SAMS = COSTCO = ;)


Did Sams refund the $10 disposal fee too? It may be a fee specific to California but Sams didnt when I returned my 37" a few weeks ago to get the better Visio 42" Gallevia at Costco.

Does Sam's price match? CC and BB in my town have the 42PX60U for a couple hundred cheaper than the 42PX6U I bought at Sam's a couple days ago. I'd like to know whether just to return the unit or to ask for a price match?Thanks.

It never hurts to ask for a price match. Some stores wont match with sams or costco because of the difference in model number. By policy its 'not the same tv'.

For those of you that have been considering the 50" Maxent --Costco has extended the coupon until 9/30 on their website.

I am not 100% sure , but it probably applies to B&M also.

I don't think Sams or Costco does price matching.

Did Sams refund the $10 disposal fee too? It may be a fee specific to California but Sams didnt when I returned my 37" a few weeks ago to get the better Visio 42" Gallevia at Costco.


No fee where I live.

Hoppy,

Called my local Costco (NJ) yesterday about the 42PX60U and was told that they do not price match.

---Jerry---

Costco doesn't carry the 60U. Their model is the 42PX6U.

iBleedGarnet.

You are correct, my post should have read: "Called my local Costco (NJ) yesterday about the 50PX60U and was told that they do not price match".

Price difference correct but model # wrong. Sorry.

Thanks,
---Jerry---

No problem, Jerry.

In this case, the entire bezel looks different as well, so it's pretty easy to distinguish the 60U from the 6U. The 6U looks more like last year's models/this year's ED.

Does anyone know if Costco any type of price guarantee.....I know they don't match but say if once you buy it the price drops the next week.

I am tempted by the Panny 42 600U that is on their website but am wondering if that price will drop sept 1st IF panasonic makes the predicted pricing announcement.

Anyone else tempted by the 600U on the Costco website?

thanks everyone for this great thread, I am learning a lot.

Dave

Costco has no price guarantees and no price matching. When I asked they said that they would take the set back if I wasn't satisfied with the price. So that's what I did. This weekend I returned my 50PX6U and purchased a 50PX60U from a local B&M for much much less (PM me for details as we can't post prices). I was happy with the 6U (after I had to return one with a defective digital tuner), but I could not justify paying substantially more for this model just for the unlimited return policy. In fact I can purchase a 5 year extended warranty for the 60U and will still not have paid what I would have had to pay for the 6U. Haven't bought the warranty yet and I am still deciding as I put this on my Amex card which doubles the warranty to 2 years parts and labor and 3 years on the panel.

The Panasonics at Costco now are very nice but they are just priced too high at this time.

Keith

Costco has no price guarantees and no price matching.


I think what he is asking is not price matching aginst other stores, is price matching if their prices drops after you bought the TV. and the answer to that is yes, I can tell you because I've done it.
When I bought my TV I paid full price and then a week later there were two coupns on it, taking the price down a shocking 400usd, so I went to the store and talk to membership services and they gave me the difference back, the only condition is that you bought your TV less than 30 days from the day you getting the refund.
Guaranteed

I think what he is asking is not price matching aginst other stores, is price matching if their prices drops after you bought the TV. and the answer to that is yes, I can tell you because I've done it.
When I bought my TV I paid full price and then a week later there were two coupns on it, taking the price down a shocking 400usd, so I went to the store and talk to membership services and they gave me the difference back, the only condition is that you bought your TV less than 30 days from the day you getting the refund.
Guaranteed

Do online coupons/rebates apply to the stores as well?

I think what he is asking is not price matching aginst other stores, is price matching if their prices drops after you bought the TV. and the answer to that is yes, I can tell you because I've done it.
When I bought my TV I paid full price and then a week later there were two coupns on it, taking the price down a shocking 400usd, so I went to the store and talk to membership services and they gave me the difference back, the only condition is that you bought your TV less than 30 days from the day you getting the refund.
Guaranteed


Yes, I agree. I may have misunderstood the question. Within 30 days of purcahse, Costco will refund you the difference if THEY drop the price. After that, technically I think you have to do a return and re-buy, although some have reported that a talk with the manager can sometimes get the refund of the differece without having to do a return.

Keith

Yes, I agree. I may have misunderstood the question. Within 30 days of purcahse, Costco will refund you the difference if THEY drop the price. After that, technically I think you have to do a return and re-buy, although some have reported that a talk with the manager can sometimes get the refund of the differece without having to do a return.

Keith

I was able to get three different price adjustments on my Vizio tv...you just need a hot chick (I had my wife do it) to ask for you :D

I posted this in another thread but here it goes:
Does anyone know where I can find GV42LHD? My local CC warehouse is out of stock. Also wondering if Costco will price already included coupon price? I saw the LT42 (also out of stock) at Sam's and was even better than 37" Westy and Magnovox. Pretty darn good panel and GL should be much better assumably. I just wish that I can get one before the football season starts.

Do online coupons/rebates apply to the stores as well?
not usually

I was able to get three different price adjustments on my Vizio tv...you just need a hot chick (I had my wife do it) to ask for you :D

Arent you the one with Carmen electra for a wife?

Arent you the one with Carmen electra for a wife?

HAHA! That's funny that you remember that...yes - it does help you get places :D

If she bought her computer before Costco modified their policy she would be well within her rights to return the item for a full refund.

What is your point??

If you read my post - I never said she didn't deserve the refund. In fact I even said I knew nothing about the potential extenuating circumstances surrounding her return. You just offerred one potential reason why she may have gotten around the current policy.

My response to bdizzle was made because he stated that it is not true that Costco excludes PCs from the standard return policy and that is wrong.

I purchased a 42" plasma from BB online and had it delivered 7/31. On 8/23 I noticed the price on the TV on BB was $220 on less than I paid and I started trying to get the price match. Since this was an online purchase, I was dealing with best buy. The policy clearly states 30 days from delivery.

So far, all I have is a run-around and we'll get back to you. Yesterday was the third phone conversation and again, 'we'll get back to you in 2 to 3 business days'. The first conversation on 8/23 was someone will get back to you within 24 hours.

So far, the price match is BS.

I purchased a 42" plasma from BB online and had it delivered 7/31. On 8/23 I noticed the price on the TV on BB was $220 on less than I paid and I started trying to get the price match. Since this was an online purchase, I was dealing with best buy. The policy clearly states 30 days from delivery.

So far, all I have is a run-around and we'll get back to you. Yesterday was the third phone conversation and again, 'we'll get back to you in 2 to 3 business days'. The first conversation on 8/23 was someone will get back to you within 24 hours.

So far, the price match is BS.

All the more reason to shop at Costco!

Steve3733,
Do yourself a favor, contact BB and tell them you are going to file complaints with the Better Business Bureau and your local Consumer Affairs department, then do it! You'll be surprised how quickly things get resolved once these wheels are put in motion.

Jim

(from my brother, a fairly high-ranking suit type in charge of a national chain's U.S. customer service)

they couldn't care less about the BBB -- tell them your next call is to your credit card company, where you'll just chargeback and if best buy wants their TV back -- well, they're more than free to come retrieve it.


You're clearly in the right, and warranty/contract/etc dispute is one of the few things a credit card company will give you your money back for 99% of the time.


Tell them you've been given the run around for a week, your 30 days are almost over, and your next call is to arrange the chargeback.

...and watch them trip over themselves giving you your money.

2 Things on Costco:

1 - They do "Price Adjustments" for some customers. If you are at a store that has a product selling for a price lower than what you paid for it, and you have your receipt with you, they may give you the difference for it at the returns desk. I have done this many times for many different things. The logic is easy to understand, because you could simply return & rebuy if you still have the receipt. Some of the times when I have done this, they have told me that I should only return things that are 30 days old, but I still get the job done anyway.

2 - Most people are not aware that Costco has excellent tracking systems. You have a membership number. They track everything you buy. I strongly believe that their service reps look at your account when you're returning something and treat you according to how much you have spent at Costco in the last year, and your return history. I buy most of my groceries there and spend quite a bit of cash with them in general, and I don't abuse their policy, which could explain why I have never been declined while returning anything.

The bottom line here is that you can buy with extreme confidence if you are a good customer. It's exactly how I would run the place if it were my business.

Who has ordered a panel/set through Costco Online?

How long did it take the unit to arrive from the date of order?

What was the condition of the unit?

Where you happy with the overall experience?

Just ordered my TH-50PH9UK from the site, and nervous about how it will go. I know I can take it back to any store, but don't want to deal with the hassle if at all possible.

Cheers,
Brian

oops, just saw the master thread.. sorry for the dupe, but feel free to answer :P

Who has ordered a panel/set through Costco Online?

How long did it take the unit to arrive from the date of order?

What was the condition of the unit?

Where you happy with the overall experience?

Just ordered my TH-50PH9UK from the site, and nervous about how it will go. I know I can take it back to any store, but don't want to deal with the hassle if at all possible.

Cheers,
Brian

oops, just saw the master thread.. sorry for the dupe, but feel free to answer :P

Just curious...did you get it from Costco.com because of their return policy? I'd much rather get my 9UK from there too but after an HDMI blade, tax, and shipping, it's like $600-700 more than online forum sponsers...

Thanks for moving this op! :)

Yeah it was mostly because of the return policy. I'm not a Costco renter, but I'm also not ashamed to take it back if I'm not happy (within a resonable amount of time) or if it breaks(within an unreasonable amount of time).

The panel costs what their website states and I nabbed the blade, AVIA, and the wall mount for a little above the numbers you are talking.. I probably could have done better on the mount, since it is the name brand panny.

Cheers,
Brian

Who has ordered a panel/set through Costco Online?

How long did it take the unit to arrive from the date of order?

What was the condition of the unit?

Where you happy with the overall experience?

Just ordered my TH-50PH9UK from the site, and nervous about how it will go. I know I can take it back to any store, but don't want to deal with the hassle if at all possible.

Cheers,
Brian

oops, just saw the master thread.. sorry for the dupe, but feel free to answer :P

I've ordered an LCD and a LCD wall mount. Within 10 days I had both. LCD came first and box was in good shape and then I received the mount. Mount box was in sad shape but mount was OK. I didn't like the LCD pq so I returned it to my nearest costco (60+ miles) but I kept the mount. I was even refunded my shipping on the LCD. No hassle at all other than packing the box up and driving it to store.

I came upon this today from a friend-interesting

Costco tests big-screen TV installation service
CHICAGO, Aug 30 (Reuters) - Costco Wholesale Corp. (COST.O: Quote, Profile, Research) said on Wednesday it was testing a new in-home installation service for electronics purchased at its stores as it tries to reduce the number of televisions that are returned.

The warehouse club operator, which warned earlier on Wednesday that quarterly profit would miss expectations because of disappointing margins, said it was offering "concierge" service at a handful of southern California stores, where customers can have electronics delivered and set up at home.

Costco has struggled with a high number of returns on sophisticated electronics such as big-screen plasma televisions because customers had trouble setting them up and getting the picture working properly.

The heavy returns contributed to the margin pressures.

"We are testing a concierge service which includes installation and so far it is working out well," Chief Financial Officer Richard Galanti said on a conference call with analysts.

"They (customers) want somebody to come in, wire it and hang it up and make sure it is working."

If the service is rolled out nationwide, that would mean more competition for electronics retailers such as Best Buy Co. Inc. (BBY.N: Quote, Profile, Research) and Tweeter Home Entertainment Group Inc. (TWTR.O: Quote, Profile, Research). In-home installations have been a big profit driver for those chains as technology gets more complicated.

Many retailers charge a restocking fee when electronics are returned, but Costco does not. The policy is popular with customers, but has hurt profits in recent quarters.

"As you might expect, the last thing we want to do is just change our return policy without trying everything else first, and that may be a little painful short-term, but that's where we're going to go," Galanti said.

Definitely interesting..

I wonder what the actually figures are of returns being caused by ignorance vs. people playing dumb to get the item returned..

I'm having a dilemma: Do I buy the Panny 9UK on Costco.com for $540 more than I can get it from an online vendor? It's sure nice to know I can always take it back if it breaks but for $540 more?

Same dilemma here.

Does the online vendor charge sales tax?

Piece of mind is paramount for me (I would rather pick up one I can look at and return immediately if any problems arise), but seems like C***** where I am never has 50" Panny models in stock anyway.

Same dilemma here.

Does the online vendor charge sales tax?

Piece of mind is paramount for me (I would rather pick up one I can look at and return immediately if any problems arise), but seems like C***** where I am never has 50" Panny models in stock anyway.

The online vendors that have the lowest prices for me do not have sales tax...and you're right - they occasionally have the 50" 60U but I want the 9UK which is only on their website...so there is the shipping charge on top of it...you do get the shipping back if you have to return it however...

Btw, does it really take 20 business days (1 month) for a tv order to be received?

I'm waiting to see about the 20 business days right now on the 9UK..

Ordered it Sunday morning, which doesn't count obviously, and as of right now the order status still says in process and nothing has hit my credit card..

I also called my local store and they said the 9UK is an online item only, so unless they change their minds, don't expect to see it in the store.

I'm waiting to see about the 20 business days right now on the 9UK..

Ordered it Sunday morning, which doesn't count obviously, and as of right now the order status still says in process and nothing has hit my credit card..

I also called my local store and they said the 9UK is an online item only, so unless they change their minds, don't expect to see it in the store.

Wow...so three business days and nothing has happened huh? Keep us posted...as I've stated - I'm personally in the middle of weighing out the peace-of-mind vs. cheaper prices dilemma...

Costco: Sharp 32" LCD (bottom speakers and tuner) will be on sale Sept 8 to Sept 24.
item: 140132. It's silver. Ick.

The Panny 600U is now on Costco's Web site. Can anyone confirm if it's also sold in stores? Thanks.

The Panny 600U is now on Costco's Web site. Can anyone confirm if it's also sold in stores? Thanks.

That's the 60U, not the 600U.

Go look again.

Wow - went into the local Costco last night and prices on TV's seemed to have dropped across the board. I won't mention specifics but it was pretty significant on some TV's. LCD's in particular.

Question: When the computer return policy at Costco changed, were people who bought computers before it changed "grandfathered" or were they not allowed to return their computers either?

thats a good question...I would think that those who bought before a policy change would be grandfathered since you bought it under those specific terms. At least I hope so since I just bought one at costco.

It is my understanding that when Costco changed their return plan with Computers it was across the board and applied to previous purchasers as well. For almost all companies if you read their customer agreement it almost always states that they have the right to alter the terms at any given time. You might not like it but it's generally out there in plain sight. My advice is, based on the hit the stock took and the expected fallout, expect Costco to change their policy sometime in the not too distant future.

I only ask because I saw a link around here recently that talked about Costco starting an installation program for tvs because they feel they are getting a lot of returns because people don't know how to set them up...they are doing this because they have receiving more and more returns and want to try something without having to change the return policy...

For a 9UK I would pay $500 more to get it at Costco which to me for peace-of-mind is worth it if they don't change the return policy of course...

Go look again.

I still only see the 60U, can't miss that big 'ol silver bezel! Perhaps you could PM me the link?

Wow - went into the local Costco last night and prices on TV's seemed to have dropped across the board. I won't mention specifics but it was pretty significant on some TV's. LCD's in particular.

Same in NH - although the price drops I saw were only on the 37" Sharp and the 42" Panny. Still waiting to see the same insane price on the Sony 40" LCD that I saw online at CC.

I still only see the 60U, can't miss that big 'ol silver bezel! Perhaps you could PM me the link?

There is a 42" 600U...maybe that's what he means...

Costco should sell a warranty just like Sam and that would reduce the abuse of their return policy. The reason is, if people have that piece of mind for 5 years than they won't return things for every tiny little things they find in their TV. Let's face it when you spend 2 grand you expect it to last at least 5 years, I know I do.

Not so flexible Costco return policy?

I recently had purchase a TH-42PX6U from costco and after a few weeks returned it for a TH-50PX6U when they had received some more in. During the return, the sales person checked with the manager about my "returning habits". They found that last year I had returned a TV because it broke and I had bought an Avia as a replacement but I was not happy with that TV so I returned it for another. Anyway, she told me that since this is my third returned TV, although one was broken, the manager said he will be "watching me", whatever that means but still refunded my money. Given that the price had just changed on both TVs, I thought I was justified in a upgrade this time around but I guess they did not see it that way.

Anyway, I wonder if I ever return another TV, if they will say no or take away my membership.

What is the most TVs anyone has returned at Costco? Has anyone lost their membership because of returning?

Costco just trimmed their profit forecast. This may put pressure on their liberal return policy.

We should all feel lucky about Costco's generous return policy. I would feel comfortable returning a broken TV 2-3 or maybe even after 4 years, but I would definitely not use it as a free pass for unlimited electronics upgrades. Those who do may just ruin it for us all and this return policy will go the way of computers.

Costco's new quarterly earnings came out today and they aren't great. The costco rep blamed it on the economy but there was also a paragraph mentioning the high costs of dealing with pricey television returns. No joke. Like every sensible decent person here knows, the greedy people will ruin it for everyone.

The other problem is the fact that they have a lot of lower end, "untested" companies supplying these televisions...so either the power supplies are blowing up, or people just aren't happy with what they are getting...not that Costco is the perfect setting to look at televisions, but I think if they showed they were trying to set these tvs up correctly and to a good signal, people might actually believe what they are seeing is close to "realistic" and decide against the purchase...

What I think is a fair policy to avoid the "upgrading" would be to allow 30 days to return/exchange and then after that a "restocking" fee (20% or whatever) after that...that would deter some people from returning just to upgrade...the problem is - if prices keep dropping by 20% each year, you could still get a good replacement even with the 20% fee...

A few things that Costco could implement that would have helped me to purchase the correct set in the first place and prevent me from returning a set are:

1) High quality HD and SD sources that can be switched between for each group of sets on the floor and maybe even a poor quality SD source but that is probably asking too much.
2) Visibility into model reorders and/or education of the floor staff on reorders.
3) Access to the remotes for picture adjustments. Some are available but most are not.

In fact, I think this should be true for any store you purchase from.

A few things that Costco could implement that would have helped me to purchase the correct set in the first place and prevent me from returning a set are:

1) High quality HD and SD sources that can be switched between for each group of sets on the floor and maybe even a poor quality SD source but that is probably asking too much.
2) Visibility into model reorders and/or education of the floor staff on reorders.
3) Access to the remotes for picture adjustments. Some are available but most are not.

In fact, I think this should be true for any store you purchase from.
True that Costco is not the ideal setting to evaluate a TV. Because of this fact, I don't think Costco has a problem with people returning the TV within 30 or 60 days if you are not satisfied. 60 days should be plenty of time to evalutate all aspects of the TV with various sources and various ambient lighting in your own living room.

renlopez, I completely agree with you. However, as I had posted before, it was only two weeks before I returned the TV and they were still giving me a hard time and telling me that I am being watched as if I am a chronic returner. The only thing I have ever returned to Costco after 30 days is if it broke/failed in operation. I do believe they are getting pressure from management to limit the number of returns.

renlopez, I completely agree with you. However, as I had posted before, it was only two weeks before I returned the TV and they were still giving me a hard time and telling me that I am being watched as if I am a chronic returner. The only thing I have ever returned to Costco after 30 days is if it broke/failed in operation. I do believe they are getting pressure from management to limit the number of returns.
If they gave you a hard time after returning within 2 weeks, that is unreasonable. Without becoming an irate customer, calmly and intelligently explain how their display setup doesn't properly allow you to evaluate different signals, settings, and ambient lighting. Also explain to them what you require to properly evaluate a display and that once they can accomodate that, they would avoid such returns. Make it their fault. They'll feel an inch tall for giving you a hard time.

Ok, Costco.com shipped my TH-50PH9U... Took four days, but that is fine by me. :)

My Toshibad HD-DVD is getting loanly though.. :P

I've heard everyone say, that if you want to be safe then buy from costco. What exaclty is their retrun policy on plasmas. Are they guaranteed for life?

Ditto Sam's Club. Is there a printed return policy on their plasmas anywhere? Might be very helpful if we could get a copy of Sam's return policy for flat panel TVs.

Costco's site now has the Panny 50x600 and a 50" Pio. Just to make your decisions that much more complicated.

Costco's site just exploded with new hdtvs and price drops....

mas985, sounds like your recent return was because you wanted a bigger screen not because of an issue based on Costco's lack of in-store viewing options. Do you really think that is reasonable? I don't. They should charge a re-stocking fee for that kind of return. It costs them money. They are definitely watching you, and everyone else, as are almost all businesses that have any way to track consumer returns and complaints.

To me, if you want all the best shopping options then buy at a high end store that will cater to your needs and pay the upcharge. As you go down the food chain - from that high end store to Tweeter to Best Buy to Costco to Amazon to lesser-know internet retailers - you should expect less and have to deal with it. I know the savings can be substantial, but we all need to realize that we are screwing up the system by using the best stores as research opportunities then buying from the cheapest place we can find a way to trust. Before too long the entire retail landscape will be Wal-Martized. As consumers we will have only ourselves to blame. We vote with our wallets every day.

Costco's site just exploded with new hdtvs and price drops....

Now I have a new decision to make. Last Wednesday I purchased the Philips 42PF9431D from Costco. I have noticed that the picture seemed a little grainy at times (not sure if it's due to DirecTV) so I took a look at the website yesterday and noticed that they had the Panasonic TH-42PX6U for sell for a couple hundred dollars more than what I paid for the Philips. I have a friend who has a Panasonic plasma and his set does not look grainy (so I thought it was Philips). So I decided to return the Philips for the Panasonic. As you pointed out, I checked the website this morning and the Philips price has dropped a couple hundred dollars. Now, the savings between the Philips and the Panasonic has doubled. Now I have to decide to keep the Philips with even more savings or spend more for the Panasonic.

I purchased the same Philips as you about 2 weeks ago - no graininess here. I'm feeding the picture straight from the wall (coax) and using the QAM tuner.

Anyway, I was thinking the same thing, but I just can't get that ugly Panasonic bezel out of my mind ;)

I'll just probably go in and get my cash difference.

- no graininess here.

It may be my settings. It does not last too long. A person's face becomes a little grainy. When I'm watching something via OTA, HDNet, ESPN HD or Discovery HD, the picture is great; no issue. I get the graininess sometimes when watching older movies on HBO HD or Showtime HD. It sometimes happens when watching DVDs too (new and old movies). I use HDMI cables for my Directv box and DVD player.

It may be my settings. It does not last too long. A person's face becomes a little grainy. When I'm watching something via OTA, HDNet, ESPN HD or Discovery HD, the picture is great; no issue. I get the graininess sometimes when watching older movies on HBO HD or Showtime HD. It sometimes happens when watching DVDs too (new and old movies). I use HDMI cables for my Directv box and DVD player.

I notice this when Dynamic Contrast is on. If I leave it off there isn't a problem. I have an LCD not a plasma but maybe that will help.

although i am a huge costco fan- and find their return policy great- it seems a bit odd sometimes- for example- I recently purchased a 50" Panny last month-well it is now 200 dollars cheaper- so I know the policy is 30 days for price adjustments- I missed it by 4 days- so they basically said I have to return the set to get the new price- I said to the manager- it makes no sense to return a perfectly good tv and get my discount and pick up the same TV from the floor-he said thats what I would have to do if I wanted the price difference.. so what do they do with the Tv I returned?-I am not going to pack it up and return it though- too much work-had to borrow a friends truck to get the first home home.
thetman

although i am a huge costco fan- and find their return policy great- it seems a bit odd sometimes- for example- I recently purchased a 50" Panny last month-well it is now 200 dollars cheaper- so I know the policy is 30 days for price adjustments- I missed it by 4 days- so they basically said I have to return the set to get the new price- I said to the manager- it makes no sense to return a perfectly good tv and get my discount and pick up the same TV from the floor-he said thats what I would have to do if I wanted the price difference.. so what do they do with the Tv I returned?-I am not going to pack it up and return it though- too much work-had to borrow a friends truck to get the first home home.
thetman

I think that's why they tell you you have to bring the tv in...they know most people won't do it...

Just got off the phone with the shipper, my set is showing up on Tuesday. So 7 buisness days total, but we'll see once I actually have it.

This is my own personal feeling, but I only buy food stuff at Costco, even though Costco has a great return policy. When I think of Costco, I think of cheap electronic products and I know that's not the fact. I guess I'll have to get past that mind set, some day.

Randy

I am looking to by the Phillips 42" Plasma Model 42PF9431D/37.

I have Directv currently without the HD package. I want to just get HD channels off of the antenna. In the TV specs it says TV system: ATSC, NTSC. Video Playback NTSC. Will I be able to get local HD channels over an antenna with this TV?

thetman, my understanding (though have never done it) is that you can also ship back to Costco. I may be wrong, though.

Also just noticed the 9UK panny plasma is no longer available at Costco. Maybe it will come back...

PS: thetman, Believe it or not, I think you can also return items to Costco without the packaging. Though again, have not actually done this, so can't confirm with first hand experience.

Just got off the phone with the shipper, my set is showing up on Tuesday. So 7 buisness days total, but we'll see once I actually have it.

Thats good to know. I orderd a tv on the costco site a few days and it now says "shipped" under order tracking with no other details available. How can I find out how long it is going to take?

thanks.

I am looking to by the Phillips 42" Plasma Model 42PF9431D/37.

I have Directv currently without the HD package. I want to just get HD channels off of the antenna. In the TV specs it says TV system: ATSC, NTSC. Video Playback NTSC. Will I be able to get local HD channels over an antenna with this TV?
`You should be able to this since it has a "ATSC" tuner. You may want to check Philips site to make sure just in case Costco made a error in the description.
It is directly from Philips users manual page 6:
"Your Philips Digital TV will allow you to enjoy digital programs directly from your cable or off air. Connect directly to the TV or connect via your current cable
box or Satellite Receiver box."
Here is the Philips users manual url:
http://www.p4c.philips.com/na4/4/42pf9431d_37b/42pf9431d_37b_dfu_aen.pdf
I'm assuming that you are aware that it is only a 1024 x 768p resolution.

PS: thetman, Believe it or not, I think you can also return items to Costco without the packaging. Though again, have not actually done this, so can't confirm with first hand experience.

You do not need the original packing but you do not all the original accessories and manuals. I just spoke with Customer service about returning my plasma after a year due to an annoying problem that Vizio will not aknowledge.

You do not need the original packing but you do not all the original accessories and manuals. I just spoke with Customer service about returning my plasma after a year due to an annoyance that Vizio will not aknowledge.
Waddo,
What was the annoyance with Vizio and what model you have? I'm thinking of purchasing gl42L when it is available at Costco again. thx.

Waddo,
What was the annoyance with Vizio and what model you have? I'm thinking of purchasing gl42L when it is available at Costco again. thx.

Every so often when I turn the unit on, it power cycles (for lack of a better description). I have the P50HDM and really love it aside from this. It is annoying because it takes about 30-45 seconds before you can try to turn the set back on and it has happened to me 4 times in a row. I had to wait 4-5 minutes before I could watch my tv.

I called Vizio and described the issue. They said they had not ever heard of a problem like this and then they asked if there were any real issues with the set. I asked about a service call and they said my set is out of warranty.

I love the Vizio but I think the customer service sucks. My first unit had a flicker issue and it took 1.5 months to get a replacement. Now this one has an issue and they won't even aknowledge it. Thank goodness I got it at Costco, but now they do not stock them anymore. I love my Vizio and want another one so might just suck it up and keep the one I have...

I'm assuming that you are aware that it is only a 1024 x 768p resolution.

Yes but I really don't know what that means in plain english. It will be used in a master bedroom, not a primary TV. We have DTV and will use an antenna for HD channels.

I am really just looking for something cost effective that will have a good picture. I don't need something top-of-the-line.

Waddo,
I'm wondering if the issue happens due to a prior power loss so the unit has to do some sort of "reboot". You can try to unplug and wait and plug the power back and check to see if you can replicate the scenario. It will not solve problem but you maybe able to convince Vizio folks. BTW, do you loose all your settings when this occurs?
It would be very annoying to me if I had this problem with my Vizio and would return it to Costco at once. That is the reason I wouldn't purchase Vizio if they didn't sell it at Costco.

Waddo,
I'm wondering if the issue happens due to a prior power loss so the unit has to do some sort of "reboot". You can try to unplug and wait and plug the power back and check to see if you can replicate the scenario. It will not solve problem but you maybe able to convince Vizio folks. BTW, do you loose all your settings when this occurs?
It would be very annoying to me if I had this problem with my Vizio and would return it to Costco at once. That is the reason I wouldn't purchase Vizio if they didn't sell it at Costco.

Fortunately - I do not lose my settings. It does do some type of reset/reboot because it does not save the return to the input it was on when I turned the unit off.

It seems very random. Some days it happens 4-5 times and sometimes it won't happen for 2-3 days.

Has anyone seen the JVC HD LCD TV Costco has on their website? 46" - 1080P, 2 HDMI inputs.

Sound like a good one to me. Opinions?

Fortunately - I do not lose my settings. It does do some type of reset/reboot because it does not save the return to the input it was on when I turned the unit off.

It seems very random. Some days it happens 4-5 times and sometimes it won't happen for 2-3 days.
I would do the power experiment I explained before. If the behavior is same then it is very likey that there is a power fault somewhere, it could even be the AC cable although it is very unlikely. You can try to play with the power cord and see if TV looses power.

Has anyone seen the JVC HD LCD TV Costco has on their website? 46" - 1080P, 2 HDMI inputs.

Sound like a good one to me. Opinions?
Does NOT have 1080p input capability if this is what you are looking for.

I got an email from costco this morning stating it had shipped and also I checked the order status on their webpage which gave me a link to the shipper.

So I called the shipper and they said I was in luck and that the TV made it the distro point. They transferred me to the distro center, and I scheduled a pickup.

Then I got to thinking that the distro place wasn't that far from me, so I called them back and they told me it was cool to come down and grab it. An hour later I was back with it!

They had like 10 9UKs sitting on the doc.. :)

Fortunately - I do not lose my settings. It does do some type of reset/reboot because it does not save the return to the input it was on when I turned the unit off.

It seems very random. Some days it happens 4-5 times and sometimes it won't happen for 2-3 days.

Just return it at Costco and explain that Vizio wasn't much help. You should be able to exchange it for a new one or something else.

Good Luck!

- JOhn

Does NOT have 1080p input capability if this is what you are looking for.

Hum, I guess it is not as good as it seems.

I got an email from costco this morning stating it had shipped and also I checked the order status on their webpage which gave me a link to the shipper.

So I called the shipper and they said I was in luck and that the TV made it the distro point. They transferred me to the distro center, and I scheduled a pickup.

Then I got to thinking that the distro place wasn't that far from me, so I called them back and they told me it was cool to come down and grab it. An hour later I was back with it!

They had like 10 9UKs sitting on the doc.. :)

This might not be the best place to post about your 9UK but please PM me to see what you think...I just bought one online today (although not from Costco)...

cokecan, lucky you--costco no longer has the 9UK on their website...how long after ordering did costco notify you it was shipping? Hopefully they will get some more in.

Is there rumor that Sceptre will make 47/50" 1080P LCD? Functionality and economic vise it is a good choice as Westinghouse. I am waiting it to show up in costco. But apparently other vendors are leading the race.

Yeah i noticed they took the 42 and 50 down today..

It took 4 business days before I got notice it was shipped.

Hope they get more for all who were on the fence! :)

Cheers,
Brian

although i am a huge costco fan- and find their return policy great- it seems a bit odd sometimes- for example- I recently purchased a 50" Panny last month-well it is now 200 dollars cheaper- so I know the policy is 30 days for price adjustments- I missed it by 4 days- so they basically said I have to return the set to get the new price- I said to the manager- it makes no sense to return a perfectly good tv and get my discount and pick up the same TV from the floor-he said thats what I would have to do if I wanted the price difference.. so what do they do with the Tv I returned?-I am not going to pack it up and return it though- too much work-had to borrow a friends truck to get the first home home.
thetman

Well that tells me that they don't suffer from returns.
Rest assured thet they ship them back to supplier for credit-these guys have huge buying power that goes with their size.

As for changing the return policy, that would put them on the same footing with other retailers, thereby losing their competitive advantage.
Many sales are made strictly on the strength of their return policy- I will stop shopping there if return policy changes.
Because they are a club, they can non-renew an abuser's membership, so relax, no worries .

Just return it at Costco and explain that Vizio wasn't much help. You should be able to exchange it for a new one or something else.

Good Luck!

- JOhn

I spoke to customer service and they told me that very thing, but they do not have any more Vizio's and I really like my Vizio. I guess I have to find out if there are any comparable 50" plasmas at Costco for what I originally paid for my unit (last year August with a $400 coupon). Either that or I wait and hope they bring in the new P50HDTV.

Comments/recommendations are welcome...

although i am a huge costco fan- and find their return policy great- it seems a bit odd sometimes- for example- I recently purchased a 50" Panny last month-well it is now 200 dollars cheaper- so I know the policy is 30 days for price adjustments- I missed it by 4 days- so they basically said I have to return the set to get the new price- I said to the manager- it makes no sense to return a perfectly good tv and get my discount and pick up the same TV from the floor-he said thats what I would have to do if I wanted the price difference.. so what do they do with the Tv I returned?-I am not going to pack it up and return it though- too much work-had to borrow a friends truck to get the first home home.
thetman

thetman,

All you need to do is go buy the Panny at the new price and immediately go to returns and return that new tv with your old receipt. That way you wouldn't have to move your tv.

Anyone gotten the 5070 from Costco yet? I'm surprised they carried such a new tv.

thetman,

All you need to do is go buy the Panny at the new price and immediately go to returns and return that new tv with your old receipt. That way you wouldn't have to move your tv.

That seems like a great idea BUT they would check the serial number of the TV and they would deny it. :(

- JOhn

That seems like a great idea BUT they would check the serial number of the TV and they would deny it. :(

- JOhn

Maybe - but I doubt it. I do not recall them ever scanning the serial number of anything I purchased in the past. Just the UPC. Of course I could be wrong. Is this something you know for certain or are you just assuming they might do this? When I returned my Akai plasma I know they did not check the serial number. They just made sure all the accessories and manuals were present.

I bought my plasma from Costco and it was replaced by Vizio, so now the unit I have is not actually the one I purchased from Costco. I sure hope that does not cause a problem for me if I decide to return it....

That seems like a great idea BUT they would check the serial number of the TV and they would deny it.
Last year I had a Costco coupon for tires. The coupon was for the next month but I needed the tires right away. The tire guy at Costco said to go ahead and buy the tires and then return them next month with the coupon.

I returned the next month and was refunded the coupon value. The tires never left my car, but I "returned" them and then bought four more with the coupon.

Maybe - but I doubt it. I do not recall them ever scanning the serial number of anything I purchased in the past. Just the UPC. Of course I could be wrong. Is this something you know for certain or are you just assuming they might do this? When I returned my Akai plasma I know they did not check the serial number. They just made sure all the accessories and manuals were present.

I bought my plasma from Costco and it was replaced by Vizio, so now the unit I have is not actually the one I purchased from Costco. I sure hope that does not cause a problem for me if I decide to return it....

I'm in the same boat but I'm 99% sure they do not/will not check...and there is no serial # on the receipt so chances are there is no serial number in the system...I've never had them check in the past with items...

Check this quote form the company, they recently lowered profit guidence.

"Costco also is struggling with the costs associated with people returning big ticket electronic items such as high-end televisions."

http://news.moneycentral.msn.com/ticker/article.asp?Symbol=US:COST&Feed=AP&Date=20060830&ID=5981813

A related report says:

"Customer abuse of Costco's no-questions-asked returns policy will reduce the quarter's profit by roughly 3 cents per share, analyst Ed Weller wrote".

"However, "we think both internal and external pressure will cause the company to modify its returns policies, and soon," he added. The brokerage maintained its "Buy" rating on the company".

You can find the full report at: http://news.moneycentral.msn.com/ticker/article.asp?feed=AP&date=20060831&id=5986259

---Jerry---

is the 5070 in store or only on the website? i have a feeling the 5070 and 50px600u will be website only, like the 9uk.

A related report says:

"Customer abuse of Costco's no-questions-asked returns policy will reduce the quarter's profit by roughly 3 cents per share, analyst Ed Weller wrote".

"However, "we think both internal and external pressure will cause the company to modify its returns policies, and soon," he added. The brokerage maintained its "Buy" rating on the company".

You can find the full report at: http://news.moneycentral.msn.com/ticker/article.asp?feed=AP&date=20060831&id=5986259

---Jerry---

The return policy really is too good to be true. They should just offer warranty's that dont cost 500 bucks, to weed out all the *******s who abuse the policy.

A related report says:

"Customer abuse of Costco's no-questions-asked returns policy will reduce the quarter's profit by roughly 3 cents per share, analyst Ed Weller wrote".

"However, "we think both internal and external pressure will cause the company to modify its returns policies, and soon," he added. The brokerage maintained its "Buy" rating on the company".

You can find the full report at: http://news.moneycentral.msn.com/ticker/article.asp?feed=AP&date=20060831&id=5986259

---Jerry---

This doesn't look good... :(

No doubt abuse of Costco's liberal return policy is costing the company a lot, but we also need to recognize that Costco makes an enormous amount of money from sales to people who don't abuse the policy but choose Costco because of the added comfort factor that comes from such a policy. As someone already stated, if Costco simply eliminates its liberal return policy, they will lose a lot of sales since they actually don't offer better prices (and indeed typically offer higher prices) on many items than other online vendors. Just take a look at Costco's curent online lineup of Panasonic plasmas--they are not very price competitive and far fewer people would probably buy these at these prices if it weren't for the added comfort of the return policy. If Costco does eliminate its liberal return policy, hopefully it would also reduce prices to stay competitive. Otherwise, it may backfire on them. Alternatively, Costco could modify its policy by simply having a longer return period than other vendors (say 90 days to 6 months), which would eliminate the extreme abusers. This is what they have already done with computers (six months return policy), and if I had to guess, this is what they will do with TVs and other audio-visual equipment.

thetman,

All you need to do is go buy the Panny at the new price and immediately go to returns and return that new tv with your old receipt. That way you wouldn't have to move your tv.

A friend of mine was presented with the same predicment except it involved a $400 coupon on his 62 inch Toshiba LCD projection unit.

The Costco mgr. would not adjust the price mentioning the coupon was a manufacturers discount for new purchases even though he bought it just 5 weeks prior.

He too didn't return it due to hassles returning the old set. :eek:

I like the idea buying the new set and returning it immediately with the old receipt. Can't see a problem with it as the items are referenced by Cosco skew numbers and not individual serial numbers. :)

That seems like a great idea BUT they would check the serial number of the TV and they would deny it. :(

- JOhn

This is not true as the serial numbers ARE NOT on the receipts. Only the Costco skew numbers identify the merchandise.

Witness the fact you can bring in really OLD merchandise for refund with NO receipts and they still give you a full refund as long as they stocked it in the past via MODEL NUMBER. The disadvantage to this scenario is you'll only recapture the lowest selling price and possibly NOT what you paid for it......still a good deal in my book :p :) :D

Costco is one of my favorite stores and I love their liberal return policy. However, I've never abused it. In all the years I've shopped there I've only returned a microwave oven that actually broke after 30 days of use and exchanged for a new one.

The only other item I complained about were Kirkland signature tires that basically dry rotted less than a year of having them on the car. The manager of the Costco gave me full credit towards Michelins because he said this should not have happenned.

I would never just bu something and return it after using it for awhile just because I wanted something else.

Abuse of a liberal policy is unethical and will only hurt everyone when the company changes it's policy.

I've returned an LCD TV 2 months back and serial number were never checked, just the receipt and the model number. It was the only thing I ever returned to Costco in 9 years. If their reurn policy changes so my shopping with Costco. I have to admnit though there are lots people out there abusing costco return policy and now we all have to pay for it. :(

Well we know that Costco has dropped the price $200 on the Panny TH-50PX6U in store but has anyone seen the TH-50PX60U? Or is that online only?

thetman,
All you need to do is go buy the Panny at the new price and immediately go to returns and return that new tv with your old receipt. That way you wouldn't have to move your tv.
Wouldn't they know this is not the same set- I mean it has the date righ ton the receipt- so they would know its not the same TV-just wondering
thetman

Noticed the 45 inch Sharp LCD had a 300 rebate. So I went into to Costco today with my reciept and walked out with 300 in cash!

I was still under the 30 day limit.

Regarding the same TV, old receipt ruse there are some flaws. Since my TV, purchased in April dropped $200, I was grappling with how I now would have to repack it for the return and get a new one.

Well, the priced dropped another $100 and I decided to go back with the old receipt and make the switch, but now the TV is now out of stock!

Bummer, now I have to call back and check when they will return. There has to be a better way. However, now I am looking at the same size Panasonic, which appears to have a better picture than my Vizio ($100 more).

Sometimes our addictions do seem extreme. :)

can someone explain to me what Costco's return policy is, if there is a link to it on their website that would work too, thanks very much.

their return policy is simple longhorns...as has been said repeatedly on here, it is unlimited on anything but computers which is 6 months. any other policy stated by a store manager goes against corporate policy, period...it doesnt get any simpler.

and by the way, my buckeyes are going to kick your longhorns butts saturday! revenge for last year!..lol...unluckily for you, ryan hamby isnt our tight end anymore...so he wont be dropping easy touchdowns..lol

OH IT'S ON, good luck bro, you're going to need it ;)

can someone explain to me what Costco's return policy is, if there is a link to it on their website that would work too, thanks very much.

There is a link I can't post cause I'm a newbie.
It does state 100% satisfaction guarantee except for computer and lap tops starting in 2002.

No doubt abuse of Costco's liberal return policy is costing the company a lot, but we also need to recognize that Costco makes an enormous amount of money from sales to people who don't abuse the policy but choose Costco because of the added comfort factor that comes from such a policy. As someone already stated, if Costco simply eliminates its liberal return policy, they will lose a lot of sales since they actually don't offer better prices (and indeed typically offer higher prices) on many items than other online vendors. Just take a look at Costco's curent online lineup of Panasonic plasmas--they are not very price competitive and far fewer people would probably buy these at these prices if it weren't for the added comfort of the return policy. If Costco does eliminate its liberal return policy, hopefully it would also reduce prices to stay competitive. Otherwise, it may backfire on them. Alternatively, Costco could modify its policy by simply having a longer return period than other vendors (say 90 days to 6 months), which would eliminate the extreme abusers. This is what they have already done with computers (six months return policy), and if I had to guess, this is what they will do with TVs and other audio-visual equipment.

agreed

It is inevitable. There is too much pressure from the Street for Costco to modify its return policies.

The questions isn't whether they will eventually create a window like their do for PCs (e.g. 6 months) - it's when.

I certainly agree with others that the return policy at Costco makes it an attractive place to buy a tv. However, I think I'd like to keep my $2,000 in my pocket and take advantage of the no interest options at big box stores. I have three in my area, Best Buy, Circuit City and Nebraska Furniture Mart. Any comments on these three for follow-up service, repairs and their warranties?

Thanks,

Scott

I certainly agree with others that the return policy at Costco makes it an attractive place to buy a tv. However, I think I'd like to keep my $2,000 in my pocket and take advantage of the no interest options at big box stores. I have three in my area, Best Buy, Circuit City and Nebraska Furniture Mart. Any comments on these three for follow-up service, repairs and their warranties?

Thanks,

Scott

I love the no interest options or the tax free purchases on line but Costco with it's current return policy wins me over. Even if they modify with 6 months or a year policy with store credit after I'd still like to buy there. All that being said CC has a great deal on the set, Hitachi, i'm eyeing right now. So many decisions and not enough money.

I love the no interest options or the tax free purchases on line but Costco with it's current return policy wins me over. Even if they modify with 6 months or a year policy with store credit after I'd still like to buy there. All that being said CC has a great deal on the set, Hitachi, i'm eyeing right now. So many decisions and not enough money.

I would say something like it's laughably unwise to buy a TV or a couch you can't afford with cash out of your pocket, from anyone, anywhere, any time - but then someone would jump down my throat and remind me that debt is the American way (LOL at the idea that zero interest debt isn't actually debt).

I would say something like it's laughably unwise to buy a TV or a couch you can't afford with cash out of your pocket, from anyone, anywhere, any time - but then someone would jump down my throat and remind me that debt is the American way (LOL at the idea that zero interest debt isn't actually debt).

I hate debt esp. on credit cards. But if I buy a 2000.00 TV and can pay it off over a year or two without paying interest thats better than laying out the money all at once. I wish someone would tell my wife debt is the american way, she don't buy that no matter how much it costs ( no pun intended).

I live in Canada and the Costco Canada locations seem to carry really crappy televisions compared to Costco (US). So I was wondering if I went across the border to Costco (US) and picked up a television and brought it back to Canada would I be able to return it to Costco (Canada) if I had any problems?

There website seems to say that I can return the set to any of the 400 "worldwide" locations.

I recently purchased the Philips 42PF9431D/37 from Costco for myself. My father-in-law asked me to look into buying a plasma for him from there too (Costco). He said that he has heard a lot of really good things about Panasonics. I told him that I almost returned my Philips for the Panasonic TH-42PX6U, but I decided to keep it. So, I agreed to pick one up for me. He took a look at Costco's website and wants either the 42PF9431D/37 or the TH-42PX6U. I mentioned the look of the Panasonic and the bottom and that was not an issue for him. He said he wants picture quality over price. I saw both side by side at Costco but could not tell a difference. Does anyone have a suggestion between the two models.

Noticed the 45 inch Sharp LCD had a 300 rebate. So I went into to Costco today with my reciept and walked out with 300 in cash!

I was still under the 30 day limit.

Isn't that an on-line rebate only or is it now in the stores. I was at my Costco on 9/1/06 and there was not rebate offered. Is there now - an in store rebate?

A related report says:

"Customer abuse of Costco's no-questions-asked returns policy will reduce the quarter's profit by roughly 3 cents per share, analyst Ed Weller wrote".

"However, "we think both internal and external pressure will cause the company to modify its returns policies, and soon," he added. The brokerage maintained its "Buy" rating on the company".

You can find the full report at: http://news.moneycentral.msn.com/ticker/article.asp?feed=AP&date=20060831&id=5986259

---Jerry---

They are fixing that. They are raising the cost of the membership so everyone has to pay! :eek:

"I would say something like it's laughably unwise to buy a TV or a couch you can't afford with cash out of your pocket, from anyone, anywhere, any time - but then someone would jump down my throat and remind me that debt is the American way (LOL at the idea that zero interest debt isn't actually debt)"

Effectively, it is not debt, because you will not get the TV any cheaper if you pay cash--I realize the finance charge is included in the price, but you will pay that finance charge even if you don't finance, because the price is the same.

Is it wise to pay for something you don't use? Pay the TV off during the interest-free period and you have had the use of that money all that time, instead of givign it to someone else.

Of course, CC hopes I take too long to pay for my new TV, so they can go back and add interest from Day One...

Isn't that an on-line rebate only or is it now in the stores. I was at my Costco on 9/1/06 and there was not rebate offered. Is there now - an in store rebate?
Also in the stores...I was in CC past weekend and it was appropriately priced.

Isn't that an on-line rebate only or is it now in the stores. I was at my Costco on 9/1/06 and there was not rebate offered. Is there now - an in store rebate?


I was in my local Costco in King of Prussia, PA on Saturday and they had the rebate in the store as well! I was pumped!

The thing that kills me about Circuit City is paying $500 for a warranty..I think that is insane. I have also heard bad things about their warranties.

Is it true Costco is raising their membership prices? I would rather that then tweaking the return policy. Also if they did change the return policy, how would those that bought the tv on the old policy be handled?

It is inevitable. There is too much pressure from the Street for Costco to modify its return policies.

The questions isn't whether they will eventually create a window like their do for PCs (e.g. 6 months) - it's when.

Maybe they can look for abusive members and just focus on those dudes. No need to shut everything down...

Costco won me over, plain and simple.
As a middle aged consumer, I have come to realize, what I want most is protection. When I decide I want or 'need' something, I investigate and lurk and decide what's best for me. I generally don't require too much selling.
Honestly, I joined the Co for the smoked meat and cheap bacon....I found out about the return policy here. I LIKE IT.
I watched the same GE Tv for 30 years growing up and Why should I not expect the same now? I'm not interested in 'beta' technologies...
Ya know, I've not read the lastest posts in this thread so I'm not sure if this is even relevant. But if I spend 2-3K on a tv (like I just did, LC-37D40U ordered a few days age....expected imminantly).....4 years from now, if it craps out, I'd like to return it. As far as I'm concerned this type consumer focus is long over due/
My $0.02...for what it's worth.

Costco won me over, plain and simple.
As a middle aged consumer, I have come to realize, what I want most is protection. When I decide I want or 'need' something, I investigate and lurk and decide what's best for me. I generally don't require too much selling.
Honestly, I joined the Co for the smoked meat and cheap bacon....I found out about the return policy here. I LIKE IT.
I watched the same GE Tv for 30 years growing up and Why should I not expect the same now? I'm not interested in 'beta' technologies...
Ya know, I've not read the lastest posts in this thread so I'm not sure if this is even relevant. But if I spend 2-3K on a tv (like I just did, LC-37D40U ordered a few days age....expected imminantly).....4 years from now, if it craps out, I'd like to return it. As far as I'm concerned this type consumer focus is long over due/
My $0.02...for what it's worth.

The problem isn't with your expectations of longevity, and 4 years isn't long, it's the evolving technology. It improves nothing short of monthly and that leaves some consumers feeling cheated. As with computers what you buy today is 25% cheaper in six months so costco stopped returns on computers just for cheap upgrades. Unfortunatley, laying down $2000 and more dollars for TVs just to watch something better come along in less than year is going to cause lots of returns for cheap upgrades just like computers. Costco may have to come up with some plan to stop the bleeding.
I'm impatiently waiting for my 10 year old Sony to die but like your old GE tv that old TV technology is pretty good. Calling the new technology "beta" is the truth and the manufacturers are field testing in our living rooms because we are all too impatient to wait for a product that doesnt require extended warranties and prayers to last and work without all the issues that are discussed here.
I done ranting, now I'm going to watch my 32" Sony and hope it blows up so I can go get my new Panasonic or Hitachi or Samsung or..... :D

Hence the need for the Costcos of the world...

Anybody know when the XBR3 (not the 2), might be available for order via Best Buy (or via thier Magnolia portion)?

Is it just me or did all Panasonic plasmas on Costco's website increase in price from yesterday? I know that the TH-42PX6U did increase in price.

Gamecok67,

You are correct about the TH-42PX6U, went up $100 since yesterday.

---Jerry---

So now I can get the TH-42PX60U with the SD slot for my father-in-law for a cheaper price at Circuit City and Best Buy (since BB price matches) than the TH-42PX6U at Costco without the SD slot. I guess with Costco I do get their return policy.

Perhaps, in pricing, Costco is trying to make up for warranty policy which is very liberal. Contrary to Costco pricing, Panny plasmas are dropping in price. Costco price is quite high, actually.

Perhaps, in pricing, Costco is trying to make up for warranty policy which is very liberal. .

Good point...Also, I've heard stories of Costco lowering their prices later and people (those who watch pricing) getting the difference back months later. If that is true then I can see why their price is higher.

Now maybe some people will stop using Costco like it's their own personal Rent-A-Center (http://www6.rentacenter.com/site/page/as776-pg4284.html). Costco never was the cheapest place to buy from, so this is nothing new. But now many seem to want them to be the lowest in price, and yet still offer them unlimited returns.

I just saw a JVC 46" 1080P at Costco for ***** and did a google search for the same set and found it at another site for a $1000 less with a 3 year extended warranty and shipping, the on line company had a great rating, so I wouldn't be afraid of buying thru them, to make a long story short I think Costco is already taking in the return factor with higher prices....just my thoughts... ;)

I was in my local Costco in King of Prussia, PA on Saturday and they had the rebate in the store as well! I was pumped!

The thing that kills me about Circuit City is paying $500 for a warranty..I think that is insane. I have also heard bad things about their warranties.

Is it true Costco is raising their membership prices? I would rather that then tweaking the return policy. Also if they did change the return policy, how would those that bought the tv on the old policy be handled?

Hum, it is interesting. I was just at my Costco (9/5/06) and the Sharp did not have the rebate price. It was the same price as I bought it for in July.

As for raising the membership price, yes it is going up $5.00 for all types except for the Executive membership, which will remain the same.

Hum, it is interesting. I was just at my Costco (9/5/06) and the Sharp did not have the rebate price. It was the same price as I bought it for in July.

As for raising the membership price, yes it is going up $5.00 for all types except for the Executive membership, which will remain the same.

So is this in response to the high-priced return issues or does it look like they will change the return policy soon?

So is this in response to the high-priced return issues or does it look like they will change the return policy soon?

Not sure if it has to do with either. I think they need to increase their bottom line and what better way to do it. Whats another $5.00 per year (except when I fist joined, I think it was $15.00 lower than the new level).

If you spend lots of money at Costco during a year, it is best to have Executive Membership. The membership, in affect, will cost you nothing. You get credit for each dollar spent.

$2,500 to pay for the upgrade, $5,000 to pay for the membership. Does not include gas purchases.

does anyone know if costco carries the samsung hp-s4353?

Maybe they can look for abusive members and just focus on those dudes. No need to shut everything down...

That would be really nice. No since making everyone pay for the abuse of a few. I knew someone who bought a computer and would take it back for a "free upgrade" every year or so. I have not talked to them recently, so I am not sure if the are still returning them (every 6 months now).

does anyone know if costco carries the samsung hp-s4353?

Did you mean the 4253? -Costco doesnt have at my local costco but online at Amazon has great price with free shipping- it's in my cart along with 2 others- cant decide

rhiggs: I shall ask them next time in Costco about ..'does gas count toward your total spent at Costco in 12 months'. I see no reason why it would not but do not know for sure. Anyone?

Did you mean the 4253? -Costco doesnt have at my local costco but online at Amazon has great price with free shipping- it's in my cart along with 2 others- cant decide


thats what I meant! :) yeah, I'm looking at the same deal. from what I understand, there is no tax either which makes it a little sweeter. I can't decide if I want the samsung or save a few bucks and go with the 42'' vizio. I'm leaning towards the samsung though.

thats what I meant! :) yeah, I'm looking at the same deal. from what I understand, there is no tax either which makes it a little sweeter. I can't decide if I want the samsung or save a few bucks and go with the 42'' vizio. I'm leaning towards the samsung though.
No state tax, tho ure suppose to pay those yourself :rolleyes:

Welcome to Camp Cant Decide!

had my first encounter with return policy....costco rep said they are cracking down on returns over 30 days on tv's. that they would make a note on your account if returning more than one a year after 30 days...hmmm...just thought id share some info.

Perhaps, in pricing, Costco is trying to make up for warranty policy which is very liberal. Contrary to Costco pricing, Panny plasmas are dropping in price. Costco price is quite high, actually.

Well I was in the store last night and noticed the price was $300 less than what is posted on their website. (for the PX60U) So it looks like their website is behind on info. (It also says 52" screen on Panasonic according to Costco Site)

Amazon has great price with free shipping- it's in my cart along with 2 othersAmazon is very competitive on pricing from what I've seen but make note of their return policy w/ TV's, or shall I say No Return policy. Once you take delivery Amazon is out of the deal and you handle issues through the manufacturer only.

had my first encounter with return policy....costco rep said they are cracking down on returns over 30 days on tv's. that they would make a note on your account if returning more than one a year after 30 days...hmmm...just thought id share some info.

More than 1 set per year? Wow...I guess some people return sets often...

Maybe Costco should concentrate on better customer service!!! Those checkout lines are getting longer every year. I was on it for 30 minutes last night due to many difficult customers (trying to split up purchases on one costco account and trying to use expired coupons)!!! i'll be asking for a full refund on my membership.

..and, on the other side, we shop at Costco often and are very happy with products and service. Love them chocolate-chip cookies!

rhiggs: I shall ask them next time in Costco about ..'does gas count toward your total spent at Costco in 12 months'. I see no reason why it would not but do not know for sure. Anyone?

From the Costco site:

"Executive Members earn a 2% Annual Reward on most Costco purchases, and receive additional benefits on our member services."

I was told by the customer service desk not to include gas purchases when trying to determine if you spend enough to justify the Executive membership.

anyone familiar with the samsung lns2738dx 27'' lcd tv from sams club? the picture isn't as good (not as sharp or clear) as my older lnr268w. so I'm returning it. for details see my post in the samsung lns series lcd thread.

the lns2738dx is this years lns series samsung lcd specs but in last years casing but in all black instead of black & silver. I noticed club stores get this type of model. at least I know of one other, the samsung hls6767 is a new hls series dlp but in last years hlr series dlp casing with floating design. this can be great if its cheaper and you actually like the previous years casing better.

anyway I use the lcd in kitchen for sd viewing through coax and the pic with the newer lns2738dx is just not as good as the older lnr268w and its not because its an inch bigger as the lnr268w pic is just as good as the lnr23''. so I'm prob returning the lns2738d.

just wanted to know if anyone knows much about that model (did I just get a bad lns2738d?) or how the sd pic was on other samsung lns series lcds in general compared to last years lnr series.

what samsung lcd models does costco have? do they have the samsung lns3252d (white 32'' lcd)?

how much is the aforementioned hls6767 going for now at costco? I don't see why pricing is a nono as its public info?

who generally gets the best tvs of the club stores? bjs wholesale, sams club, or costco?

From the Costco site:

"Executive Members earn a 2% Annual Reward on most Costco purchases, and receive additional benefits on our member services."


It is also my understanding that the extra fee for the executive membership is gauranteed. Meaning that if you do not spend enough to make up the difference in refund between the two membership types, you can be refunded that difference.
Meaning that if your 2% refund is only $20, you will get a $30 refund on your executive membership.

HI i was was woundering if the 32in lcd at costco sells model number lc-40c32u was the same as the lc-32c40u at is sold elsewhere. if not can you tell me the differnce.

It is also my understanding that the extra fee for the executive membership is gauranteed. Meaning that if you do not spend enough to make up the difference in refund between the two membership types, you can be refunded that difference.
Meaning that if your 2% refund is only $20, you will get a $30 refund on your executive membership.

The executive membership :) cost $100 a year.

Does anyone here happen to shop at the Portland, OR Costco. I have a trip scheduled to Portland next week and I was hoping to pick up the 42" Vizio plasma. Of course the Costco people don't pick up the phone to answer my question if they are in stock.

-Dave

Just a quick heads up, Sams Club dropped the price of the Vizio 32" lcd yesterday by $100, it is reflected on their website also. Killer deal now.

It is also my understanding that the extra fee for the executive membership is gauranteed. Meaning that if you do not spend enough to make up the difference in refund between the two membership types, you can be refunded that difference.
Meaning that if your 2% refund is only $20, you will get a $30 refund on your executive membership.
I know that was the case when I upgraded my membership, but I don't think you get the membership difference refunded every year as an executive member..

Does anyone seeing GL42L in their local Costco this week? If you have, can you tell me which warehouse? thx.

Finally pulled the trigger on the Panny 50 from Costco. Took back my 6 month old Vizio 42 plasma and they didnt even ask a question. One problem, new TV is too big! WAAAAAAAH!!! Guess I'll have to live with that problem, especially watching Steelers/Dolphins tonite. Seriously, so far the set is great, no noise or buzzing. Will keep you informed.

Hello, all. Does anyone know for sure whether BB charges restocking fees (15%) if you return their plasma (within 30 days)??? :)

I looked on their website (for in-store return policy) and the receipt, and could not find anything concerning plasma TV (and other flat-screen TV's).

Thanks, in advance.

May I say the retail price on the Panny 50u60 display is below $2200 at some sellers...beginning to reflect the recent wholesale price drop. $2000 by Christmas?

May I say the retail price on the Panny 50u60 display is below $2200 at some sellers...beginning to reflect the recent wholesale price drop. $2000 by Christmas?

I want the 9UK to drop! C'mon Panny! Gimme what I want!

Finally pulled the trigger on the Panny 50 from Costco. Took back my 6 month old Vizio 42 plasma and they didnt even ask a question. One problem, new TV is too big! WAAAAAAAH!!! Guess I'll have to live with that problem, especially watching Steelers/Dolphins tonite. Seriously, so far the set is great, no noise or buzzing. Will keep you informed.


You have made a good choice my friend :) Especially since the price dropped. Nice timing. I think TVs seem to drop right in time for football and march madness.

Hello, all. Does anyone know for sure whether BB charges restocking fees (15%) if you return their plasma (within 30 days)??? :)

I looked on their website (for in-store return policy) and the receipt, and could not find anything concerning plasma TV (and other flat-screen TV's).

Thanks, in advance.

No they don't. After 30 days, it's yours for good.

Thanks, iBleedGarnet.

It's good to know that BB doesn't charge restocking fee for plasma TV. 15% on $3500 is $525!!!!! That's very hard to swallow.

My sister bought the Panny 50PX600U roughly 2-3 weeks ago. The TV is fantastic in term of picture quality. I calibrated it using DVE and advises of people on this forum. However, she just doesn't warm up to the two-tone look. Since Costco just advertised the Pio 5070HD on their website, she want to "try" that instead.

Thanks again.

why does only sams club seem to have the lns2738d? I really liked the idea of upgrading an inch over my lnr268w and getting the new lns specs with last years lnr casing except the lns2738d from sams is all black (which I like) instead of black with silver bottom speaker and stand like my lnr268w.

the sd picture trough coax is just not as good though on the lns2738d compared to the lnr268w which is exceptional especially considering that source.

I'm still trying to figure out if this is the case that all new lns lcds do not produce as good sharp or clear of an sd picture through coax as last years lnr series lcds. or if its just the sams club lns2738d is inferior or I got a bad one?

no regular stores have any samsung 27'' models. it jumps from 26 to 32 which I can't fit so I really like the idea of the 27 and all black casing but not I the pic isn't as good as the older lnr268w.

also is there any white lns model that doesn't have the red bottom hidden speaker besides the 23''. was looking at the lns3252d but it and the 26'' and even the 40 have the red bottom hidden speaker which I don't like. the white 23'' version had awhitish silver bottom speaker which looked better.

maybe next year one of the warehouse clubs will get a set with new 2007 specs'insides but will have this years (2006) white lns casing but with some variation like possibly all white and no red speaker? just like the lns2738d at sams is all black while the lnr268w has silver bottom spealer and stand.

its too unknown to wait for though as its so unclear what warehouse club gets what model and those will be andlook like.

someone neds to make a list of what models are exclusive to what warehouse clubs especially samsung.

I know costco has the hls6767 dlp which is a 2006 hls series dlp specs/insides but in last years 2005 hlr floating casing except the hls6767 is all black instead of having silver bottom speaker.
there is no other 67'' dlp from samsung at regular chain stores, only 61 and 71 making this a good rare in between option
and as I mentioned sams club has the lns2738d lcd which is a 27'' size that ehile not as big of a deal being close to the common 26'' is still a rare size samsung lcd that noone else carries or has in that size. it aso is all black instead of black and silver.

so it seems all the warehouse clubs don't even get same model. costco has that 67'' dlp and sams has the 27'' lcd. I wonder what bjs wholesale has? are those the only 3 warehouse clubs?

anyone seen the hls6767 at costco. my closest still doesn't have. I want to know if the bezel is shiny like the other new non warehouse club store 2006 hls dlp casing is. I wouldn't mind that its a lttle thicker bezel that last years casing if it was at least shiny piano black like the other hls dlps. prob not though as it seems to be last yeas floating casing to the tee except all black so no shiny bezel.

plus the price needs to drop on it. bb has the 65'' 1080p mitsu for[EDIT]! so 2 more inches on the hls6767 doesn't seem worth $800 more.

again can we get a list of tvs that are exclusive to which warehouse club? i've listed 2

samsung hls6767 dlp at costco and lns2738d lcd at sams club.

I've been looking at this set for the last week since it appeared at our local Costco. Costco has a special on it this month (if you have a c**P**). It's being sold as a model LC-40C32U...which is supposed to be identical to the Sharp LC-32D40U only in silver. After giving this set the once over and checking the menu out, I believe this set is actually a LC-32D41U..but it's packaged in and carries the badges of the LC-40C32U.

I submit the following:

The menu on this set is identical to menus found on the Sharp 37 and 45 inch models. The menu found on the LC-32D40U is totally different and doesn't have the menu options that this set has. The LC32D41U has the same menu as the 37 and 45 inch Sharps models.

The Sharp LC32D40U and the LC40C32U both have the same input connections. 2 HDMI and 2 component Plus others. The set at Costco has 2 HDMI, 1 DVI and 1 component (the same connectivity as the LC 32D41U.

I also noted on the box that it's origin states that it is technical design is Sharp of Japan...assembled in Mexico, Stand made in China. The exact same origin information as the 37 and 45 inch Sharps.

I'm not sure what the exact deal is..but perhaps Sharp is clearing out it's older models and making way for their new line...and they are providing Costco with their LC32D41U models packaged and badged as the LC-40C32U for sale in their stores.

I picked one up as I believe this set is the 41u and has the Sharp panel. I can say the color and adjustability on this set is excellent. I used some of the settings I found in the Sharp 37 thread and the picture is "spot on"....clean whites..nice blacks.

Check your local Costco....I like when the selling price appears without comas.

i am also planning to buy this one tomorrow..how do feel about this lcd set so far? did u try analog with this tv?

pls let me know.. thanks..

The LC32D41U has QAM. Does the Costco model have it?