Does this tv support deep Color?/ hdmi 1.3?

nope, it's old dude ;)

Hello- Any update on the pinkish aura (skin tones and walls) on the Panasonic PX-60/600U. I have a TH-42PX60U that started exhibiting this a few months back. Is this related to the 'clay face' firmware updates? (which I have not yet completed)

Hello- Any update on the pinkish aura (skin tones and walls) on the Panasonic PX-60/600U. I have a TH-42PX60U that started exhibiting this a few months back. Is this related to the 'clay face' firmware updates? (which I have not yet completed)

No updates here Nifty, but if you hear something let me know.

Thanks for the feedback. I guess it's time to re-assign this set from Primary to playroom.
Still love the details in this set, and I'm going Panasonic for the next one as well.

Hello- Any update on the pinkish aura (skin tones and walls) on the Panasonic PX-60/600U. I have a TH-42PX60U that started exhibiting this a few months back. Is this related to the 'clay face' firmware updates? (which I have not yet completed)

What settings are you running?

I've got over 12,000 hours on my TH-42PX60U, and do not see any pinkish aura.

I took a picture of it. In the picture it doesn't really look pink but it is. It's the stuff you see on both sides of his head.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/sandlapper/4006463815/sizes/l/

that is known as "purple snakes". take a deep breath and then check out this thread:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=765341

WARNING: before you read that thread, be warned that it is a horrible disease on some Panny plasmas and you don't want to go looking for it if you are happy right now. ignorance is bliss in this case.

Thanks batpig, from reading that thread it looks like I'm basically SOL. It's not that big of a deal, but it might hasten my want for another TV down the road.

yes, if you are out of warranty (as any 60/600 Panny owner will certainly be) then you are SOL. I thankfully found out about this ~2yrs ago and Panny actually refunded the purchase price of my 600U because of this problem.

Unfortunately, the 50PH10UK that I bought to replace it is has now developed the problem as well :(

So, I reopened a can of purple snakes and ants. Thank you for the referencing the thread on the subject. My display is now almost 3yrs old with an estimated 9000+ hrs on it and again, overall, the detail is still noteworthy on much of the programming. I did see that some folks saw the condition worsen over time and that does concern me. This just started exhibiting this and hopefully any additional decline will be slow. Was there any consensus on a SM adjustment that might slightly relieve the issue?

Mine started with the purple snakes at around three years as well. The TV is in the spare room and doesn't get watched much so I haven't really worried about it. Overall, it's still a great display.

Was there any concensus on a SM adjustment that might slightly releive the issue?

there is no setting in any menu that will fix it, it is a hardware failure as best we can tell. replacing certain boards (D- or DG-board) can mitigate the problem, but typically never "cures" it.

basically, if you are out of warranty your options are:

1 - pay to have the D- and DG-boards replaced and cross your fingers that it makes an improvement
2 - live with it; it really only affects specific material and otherwise the PQ should still be great, so it it depends on how much you will obsess about it
3 - use it as an excuse to upgrade, either by moving it into another room as a secondary set or by selling it on craigslist and then getting a new model

Got it, thanks. I read the mixed reviews after the board replacements. I was already heading down the combination of choices 2 & 3.
I'll keep a watch on the snake thread to see if any newer Panasonic models (G10s) are starting to pop up with the issue.

No issues with my 50pz800u after a year now. Except of course for that 48/24 flicker thing on Blu-ray discs but 60hz. looks great so it isn't significant.

I gotta say I always planned on replacing this set with another Panny, but not if this happens on all their sets. Is this an issue even in newer sets?

No issues with my 50pz600u after a year now. Except of course for that 48/24 flicker thing on Blu-ray discs but 60hz. looks great so it isn't significant.

you must mean 800U not 600U right?



Is this an issue even in newer sets?

I haven't heard any reports of it on anything but 6XX and 7XX models. I have personally seen it on 600U, 9UK, and 10UK... but these are all 6X and 7X panels and I haven't heard anything on 8X and the newer Neo PDP models.

you must mean 800U not 600U right?





I haven't heard any reports of it on anything but 6XX and 7XX models. I have personally seen it on 600U, 9UK, and 10UK... but these are all 6X and 7X panels and I haven't heard anything on 8X and the newer Neo PDP models.

Oops. Yes, I mean 800u.

My 50PX60U will be 3 years old in Nov. It has lots of hours as it is watched about 16 hours per day. I have not noticed any of the "snakes" but I do have one issue that really bothers me.

I get very bad pixilation in fast moving scenes especially with bright colors. It is very noticable in football & basketball games. Is this more related to video compression by my provider or by the TV? I used to have TWC but recently changed to ATT U-Verse and the problem is about the same with both providers.

Thanks
DerrikM

That is compression in the source from the cable feed.

A pristine HD source like bluray or a ps3 game wouldn't show that.

That does sound like compression but I'm surprised you're seeing it with U-verse.

How do Direct TV & Dish normally stack up as far as compression goes? Better or worse? I hate to go that direction, but I really find this annoying.

How do Direct TV & Dish normally stack up as far as compression goes? Better or worse? I hate to go that direction, but I really find this annoying.

Honestly, I'm not expert at this, but from my understanding U-Verse offers some of the least compressed signals in the marketplace. I don't think it would be any better with either of the satellite services.

bandwidth is too precious, you aren't going to find ANY provider which will be consistently good in terms of not having pixelization and compression artifacts. They ALL have it to some degree, although of course some might be better (I have no idea which as I use local Cox cable only).

It also depends a lot on the station broadcast. For example, ESPN is consistently better than, say, Fox in terms of the signal quality.

I do have to say that except for the fast motion thing, the U-Verse PQ is great. Much better than I used to get from TW cable. I guess I should be thankful for what I've got.

I've been trying out different BR players with my 42px600u. I have tried a Panny BD-60, Samsung 1590, and now a LG 370. The BD-60 and 1590 wouldn't allow me to select 1080p24 but the LG 370 does.

My question is what is best to output to the 600u? I imagine if it can handle a 1080p/24 signal then that is what I should send.

I wonder why the BD-60 and 1590 wouldn't allow it but the 370 does???

the 6XX Panny's did NOT accept a 1080p/24 signal. They did accept 1080p/60.

I imagine that your LG player allows you to choose the maximum resolution, but when it queries the TV's EDID info it "knows" that the TV doesn't accept 1080p/24 so it automatically is sending 1080p/60 behind the scenes.

Compare 1080i vs 1080p output from the Blu-ray, but either one should look fine.

the 6XX Panny's did NOT accept a 1080p/24 signal. They did accept 1080p/60.

I imagine that your LG player allows you to choose the maximum resolution, but when it queries the TV's EDID info it "knows" that the TV doesn't accept 1080p/24 so it automatically is sending 1080p/60 behind the scenes.

Compare 1080i vs 1080p output from the Blu-ray, but either one should look fine.

I believe you are correct. I do think it is strange that the LG allows me to select 24hz but the Samsung and Panansonic both had it grayed out and it couldn't be selected. I assume that the LG is letting me select it but it is really ouputting 1080p/60. When I hit the info button on the tv remote all it shows is 1080p. It doesn't say if it is 60 or 24hz.

I will play around with different resolutions to see what looks best. The LG doesn't have the best upconverting chip so maybe I'll use 480p with SD and 1080p with BR.

Hey gang, need some help with HDMI connection to my Comcast SA8300HD box. Original setup was component only, and I tried using the HDMI 2 (HDMI1 is inaccessible) but after a few minutes of it working, the screen went blank and no audio. I've tried rebooting the 8300HD as well as powering of the TV, no luck.
Can both component and HDMI be connected at the same time or does the component have to removed for the HDMI to work? At this point I've done so much switching around I can't tell what the original configuration was in the first place.
I don't know if this is the HDCP 'handshake' issue I've read about so can somebody tell me whether one device is to be powered on before the other.
I've changed HDMI cables and no luck. Connected to my laptop and via both cables in turn and image shows on screen so the problem has to be the TV.
Can someone please tell me what I am doing wrong. I plan to get a BR player soon so wanted to make sure the one HDMI port I can access works.

the 8300HD box is probably just having handshake problems with the display. I used to have the same combination (with a 600U Panny plasma) and I got constant dropouts and blinking. Just stick to component video.

I have handshake problems, but not to that extent and never involving sound. Have you tried different box settings? Have you tried to unplug and plug the TV? I have both component and HDMI running from the box to the TV and HDMI works. The components are cut off though while the HDMI is connected.

Amazing how component cables are so trouble free versus HDMI.

Hey gang, need some help with HDMI connection to my Comcast SA8300HD box. Original setup was component only, and I tried using the HDMI 2 (HDMI1 is inaccessible) but after a few minutes of it working, the screen went blank and no audio. I've tried rebooting the 8300HD as well as powering of the TV, no luck.
Can both component and HDMI be connected at the same time or does the component have to removed for the HDMI to work? At this point I've done so much switching around I can't tell what the original configuration was in the first place.
I don't know if this is the HDCP 'handshake' issue I've read about so can somebody tell me whether one device is to be powered on before the other.
I've changed HDMI cables and no luck. Connected to my laptop and via both cables in turn and image shows on screen so the problem has to be the TV.
Can someone please tell me what I am doing wrong. I plan to get a BR player soon so wanted to make sure the one HDMI port I can access works.

Hey gang, need some help with HDMI connection to my Comcast SA8300HD box. Original setup was component only, and I tried using the HDMI 2 (HDMI1 is inaccessible) but after a few minutes of it working, the screen went blank and no audio. I've tried rebooting the 8300HD as well as powering of the TV, no luck.
Can both component and HDMI be connected at the same time or does the component have to removed for the HDMI to work? At this point I've done so much switching around I can't tell what the original configuration was in the first place.
I don't know if this is the HDCP 'handshake' issue I've read about so can somebody tell me whether one device is to be powered on before the other.
I've changed HDMI cables and no luck. Connected to my laptop and via both cables in turn and image shows on screen so the problem has to be the TV.
Can someone please tell me what I am doing wrong. I plan to get a BR player soon so wanted to make sure the one HDMI port I can access works.

With the SA8300HD, I think you have to use either the HDMI or the component connection. I don't think both can be connected at the same time. Also, in the cable box output display settings, make sure you chose HDMI as your output and your native resolution of your display for the handshake.

Bob.

With the SA8300HD, I think you have to use either the HDMI or the component connection. I don't think both can be connected at the same time. Also, in the cable box output display settings, make sure you chose HDMI as your output and your native resolution of your display for the handshake.

Bob.

You can have both connected at the same time. I could send you a picture of the back my TV if you don't believe me. :-) The components won't work tho. I hate HDMI, but something is wrong with my box so I need HDMI to get sound for some channels. Crazy.

You can have both connected at the same time. I could send you a picture of the back my TV if you don't believe me. :-) The components won't work tho. I hate HDMI, but something is wrong with my box so I need HDMI to get sound for some channels. Crazy.

With both HDMI and component cables connected to my TV, I would not receive video. Maybe it was a setting within my box or TWC. But, I would receive video if I used a composite or SVHS cable while using HDMI or component cables.

I agree with your statement regarding component cables. Component cables are way more reliable than HDMI.

Bob.

Been a long long time since I posted and I did my best to search this thread for some comparisons.

I was wondering what everyone is running with there consoles in the display options. I have been switching back and forth constantly trying to find a happy medium with it.

Playing around with AC2 as my example on the 360 I set it to extended and auto. I love the color pop extended gives but I seem to be loosing a lot of details in dark areas it is just straight up black.

With Standard and 709 I lose all the pop but gain back my dark details.

With my cinema settings I love the texture details and it hides a lot of mistakes in the game like tearing and pop-in.
With the tweaktv settings on standard I notice every little mistake in the graphics and textures.

Now I read somewhere on the gaming forums that panny panels are not capable of reading black as 0 and white as 255. So if this is the case then extended/rgb would be out on this tv. This would go for the ps3 setting of RGB Full as well. If I have all this info in my head correct.

I now realize I am going to have to invest in a blu-ray version of DVE. What are you all using for calibrating for gaming?

Thanks for the responses, I have to say I honestly can't recall the circumstances under which I actually got both audio and video, whether both component and HDMI were connected or not. I think it was with HDMI only but not sure. Since it won't work now that I've got both cables connected, I see its obvious what my next step is.
As for unplugging the Tv, is there a sequence as to which device is to be powered on first or not? I will also check to make sure I have the cable box set to output HDMI. If all fails, guess I'll just stick with what works.
Thanks again

I hate to suggest the obvious, but have you set the TV input to HDMI on the Panny? I am pretty sure you have but just in case. Try the unplugging both ways. I'm not sure it will do any good, but in the back of my mind I remember something about that. Probably more likely to plug it back in when the box is on.

Thanks for the responses, I have to say I honestly can't recall the circumstances under which I actually got both audio and video, whether both component and HDMI were connected or not. I think it was with HDMI only but not sure. Since it won't work now that I've got both cables connected, I see its obvious what my next step is.
As for unplugging the Tv, is there a sequence as to which device is to be powered on first or not? I will also check to make sure I have the cable box set to output HDMI. If all fails, guess I'll just stick with what works.
Thanks again

Question:

I have both my Dish Network 722k and my Oppo BD connected to my TH-58PX60U via HDMI, and I have a Digital Audio Out Toslink Fiber optic running from my TV to my AV Receiver.

I found that when I set my Receiver to the TV AUDIO in, I get either the satellite or the BR DVD sound, depending what TV Input I choose.

Now, this is nice, because I don't have to switch the Receiver input every time I change from satellite to DVD, but I am wondering if I am getting ALL the Audio signal (Dolby Digital THX etc) or is the audio signal downgraded to two channel stereo?

Oh, and by the way, even though my TH-58PX60U is not 1080p, I am still loving it every day!

fyi, I solved the problem with getting QAM digital HD channels off of cable scanned + programmed automatically.

The trick is to set the scan to scan off of ANTENNA rather than CABLE. If my understanding of QAM is correct, they make the OTA digital HD channels available unscrambled (by law) on the cable as well. And the signal type is just like you'd get over an OTA antenna, so you simply scan in ANTENNA mode.

edit: oh, i also did a firmware upgrade to the tuner available from panny's support site.

That's good to know because my PX60 is in the spare room and doesn't get watched very often. Sometimes I'll turn it on and a QAM channel has disappeared and it's such a hassle to go through a complete scan just to pick one channel up again. Thanks for sharing, triple_vee, and welcome to the forum.

Question:

I have both my Dish Network 722k and my Oppo BD connected to my TH-58PX60U via HDMI, and I have a Digital Audio Out Toslink Fiber optic running from my TV to my AV Receiver.

I found that when I set my Receiver to the TV AUDIO in, I get either the satellite or the BR DVD sound, depending what TV Input I choose.

Now, this is nice, because I don't have to switch the Receiver input every time I change from satellite to DVD, but I am wondering if I am getting ALL the Audio signal (Dolby Digital THX etc) or is the audio signal downgraded to two channel stereo?

Oh, and by the way, even though my TH-58PX60U is not 1080p, I am still loving it every day!

You are correct--the audio passed by the Toslink, originating from your HDMI inputs, is output as two-channel stereo. All Panasonic TVs are the same in that regard.

I totally agree with you about the picture quality. I love my TH-42PX60U. It's a bedroom TV for me and color-wise, it blows away my new TC-P50G15, even though the G15 is a 1080P set.

You are correct--the audio passed by the Toslink, originating from your HDMI inputs, is output as two-channel stereo. All Panasonic TVs are the same in that regard.

when i got rid of my comcast cable box recently, i asked myself, "why in the heck do you have both an hdmi and toslink cable coming out of the cable box?" now i remember.

since comcast cable box didn't allow an hdmi switcher (av receiver) to be in the path, i had to plug it straight into the back of the panny. then i figured i would use the toslink from the panny back to the AV receiver to get the digital 5.1.

all i got was stereo.

so i had to add a toslink from the comcast cable box into the av receiver and programming both the audio and video source when selecting "DVR" on the av receiver.

amazing that the ideal concept of av switching at the av receiver can be foobar'ed by so many idiosyncratic factors. i remember tearing my hair out about this.

I had the opportunity to set up a new Panny X1 this week and then visit homes with a 50U and a 60U and was blown away at the better PQ on the older Pannys.

I also saw an 8G Pio Elite and as usual was not impressed at the soft, flat Pio look.

Are the older Pannys some of the best Plasmas ever made? They have that 3D pop and picture window detail that I get on my NEC (mits) plasma.

Is it because of the new lower power energy star rating, or anti glare eating up the PQ?

Sorry if this is the wrong place to ask!


bob

Maybe we just need to wait a bit more for the PQ to improve on the newer panels. My 42px60 certainly has a better picture now than it did over three years ago when it was new. My 50pz800 has a better picture now than it did new over a year ago, better than the px60. Plasma panels do seem to improve with age.

when i got rid of my comcast cable box recently, i asked myself, "why in the heck do you have both an hdmi and toslink cable coming out of the cable box?" now i remember.

since comcast cable box didn't allow an hdmi switcher (av receiver) to be in the path, i had to plug it straight into the back of the panny. then i figured i would use the toslink from the panny back to the AV receiver to get the digital 5.1.

all i got was stereo.

so i had to add a toslink from the comcast cable box into the av receiver and programming both the audio and video source when selecting "DVR" on the av receiver.

amazing that the ideal concept of av switching at the av receiver can be foobar'ed by so many idiosyncratic factors. i remember tearing my hair out about this.

It's a pain, isn't it? I only have two optical inputs on my audio receiver and three feeds--the TV, DVR, and DVD. I had to use a manual switch to switch between the DVR and TV's optical outputs to the receiver. I'm not sure why they won't make it to pass DD5.1 through the TV's optical output when using HDMI input. The TV WILL pass 5.1 from its internal tuner.

That's good to know because my PX60 is in the spare room and doesn't get watched very often. Sometimes I'll turn it on and a QAM channel has disappeared and it's such a hassle to go through a complete scan just to pick one channel up again. Thanks for sharing, triple_vee, and welcome to the forum.
Thanks! The other thing I noticed was that the HD channel frequencies from the cable were exactly the same as from the OTA.

. . . and was blown away at the better PQ on the older Pannys.

Are the older Pannys some of the best Plasmas ever made? They have that 3D pop and picture window detail that I get on my NEC (mits) plasma.

Is it because of the new lower power energy star rating, or anti glare eating up the PQ?bob

Thanks for saying this! (And everyone else too) for commenting on how good our "outdated" Plasmas look! <grin!>

I was watching "Night at the Museum 2", on Blu Ray on my Oppo, and I was saying to myself, "I know it is not 1080p, but how much better could this picture look?

Two features I love on my Panasonic, is that there is NO Anti-Glare film, and that the black panel is FLAT BLACK, not piano reflective black.

The thing (for me) that initially won me over to Plasma, was the way ocean and water surfaces looked on the Plasma, vs any LCD. The LCD's did not have the shimmer and glisten that the Plasma's had.

Well, I am glad that other Panasonic Px60/600 ownersare still loving their "outdated" sets too!

Wow, I didn't realize my old Panny was better than the new ones. Makes me feel better about the $3k I shelled out for it!

Thanks for saying this! (And everyone else too) for commenting on how good our "outdated" Plasmas look! <grin!>

I was watching "Night at the Museum 2", on Blu Ray on my Oppo, and I was saying to myself, "I know it is not 1080p, but how much better could this picture look?

Two features I love on my Panasonic, is that there is NO Anti-Glare film, and that the black panel is FLAT BLACK, not piano reflective black.

The thing (for me) that initially won me over to Plasma, was the way ocean and water surfaces looked on the Plasma, vs any LCD. The LCD's did not have the shimmer and glisten that the Plasma's had.

Well, I am glad that other Panasonic Px60/600 ownersare still loving their "outdated" sets too!

Thanks for saying this! (And everyone else too) for commenting on how good our "outdated" Plasmas look! <grin!>

I was watching "Night at the Museum 2", on Blu Ray on my Oppo, and I was saying to myself, "I know it is not 1080p, but how much better could this picture look?

Two features I love on my Panasonic, is that there is NO Anti-Glare film, and that the black panel is FLAT BLACK, not piano reflective black.

The thing (for me) that initially won me over to Plasma, was the way ocean and water surfaces looked on the Plasma, vs any LCD. The LCD's did not have the shimmer and glisten that the Plasma's had.

Well, I am glad that other Panasonic Px60/600 ownersare still loving their "outdated" sets too!


Good news!

What model do you have. I hate silver but love the PQ on the 50/60U's

Be nice to have black and that vintage PQ!


bob

Good news!

What model do you have. I hate silver but love the PQ on the 50/60U's

Be nice to have black and that vintage PQ!


bob

I have a 50PX60U. PQ is absolutely amazing with DVD source. However I have severe pixilation when watching fast moving scenes via the cable (HDMI) input. I've experienced this with both Time Warner Cable and now ATT UVerse. Is this fully the fault of compression by my providers? Or is it something else? It is pretty bad while watching football and basketball.
DerrikM

I have a 50PX60U. PQ is absolutely amazing with DVD source. However I have severe pixilation when watching fast moving scenes via the cable (HDMI) input. I've experienced this with both Time Warner Cable and now ATT UVerse. Is this fully the fault of compression by my providers? Or is it something else? It is pretty bad while watching football and basketball.
DerrikM

Thanks.

Actually I ws wondering what model BuddTx had. I thought all 50/60U's were silver bezeled?

bob

I've read the last 30 or so posts in this thread with great interest. I have BOTH a PX60U and 600U 50" units. Needless to say, I paid the BIG DOLLARS when I bought them. When I first got them I was very impressed with the picture quality of both units and they still look great even today. That said, I also want to say that they have the WORST tuners I have ever seen. When you speak to Panasonic about it and tell them the model number they treat you like yesterday's news because they have long corrected the problems on the newer models and DON'T CARE about customers with "older" models. Of course if you are using your TV with a cable box, the tuner has no importance to you. I now only use my units for DVD playback mostly, however, since they only do 720p and can't do 1080/24, they are limited.:(

To the people trying to use cable boxes with HDMI/Component, there is NOTHING wrong with HDMI, all the problems with HDMI are caused by HDCP (High Definition Copy Protection). The HDCP forces the component to be turned off and if the HDMI cable is disconnected from the TV, you won't receive full HD resolution from whatever source you're using (cable box, Blu-ray player, etc.) if the HDCP flags are turned on and detected in the signal. They went to all that trouble (and expense to you) to design and implement HDCP, yet, all you have to do is buy an HDFury or similar device and you can permanently DEFEAT HDCP.:mad:

To everyone who thinks the picture quality is "better" then the newer models....you probably haven't seen the Panasonic G10 plasma units yet. To anyone who is considering an LCD TV because they have greatly improved over the last few years, don't kid yourself, the G10's prove that plasma is the KING of front view TV picture quality (at least until LED is fully perfected) .:)

^ Amen on that tuner issue, it's practically useless to use an antenna on my px60 in the spare room. I had to run cable coax to it and use the QAM tuner. The tuner in my 800u works great with an antenna, even my cheapo Westinghouse LCD in the bedroom has a far superior ATSC tuner than my px60 and they're about the same age.

However I have severe pixilation when watching fast moving scenes via the cable (HDMI) input. I've experienced this with both Time Warner Cable and now ATT UVerse. Is this fully the fault of compression by my providers?

yes, it's signal compression, very common with cable/sat providers. you don't notice it as much with some programming but sports will highlight the compression because of all the fast movement. it's worse with some channels than others.

To everyone who thinks the picture quality is "better" then the newer models....you probably haven't seen the Panasonic G10 plasma units yet. To anyone who is considering an LCD TV because they have greatly improved over the last few years, don't kid yourself, the G10's prove that plasma is the KING of front view TV picture quality (at least until LED is fully perfected) .:)

I have a G15 (same as G10) and disagree with your statement. The color on the G15 is crap. Both the G15 and my 60U have been ISF calibrated, and still, the old PX60U beats it, color-wise, hands down. Yes, the G15 has amazing clarity being a 1080P set, but otherwise, I'm not as impressed as all the other drooling owners.

I have a G15 (same as G10) and disagree with your statement. The color on the G15 is crap. Both the G15 and my 60U have been ISF calibrated, and still, the old PX60U beats it, color-wise, hands down. Yes, the G15 has amazing clarity being a 1080P set, but otherwise, I'm not as impressed as all the other drooling owners.

Amazing clarity as in sharper picture even with Sat or Cable?

How about brightness; 60U vs G series?

bob

I have a G15 (same as G10) and disagree with your statement. The color on the G15 is crap. Both the G15 and my 60U have been ISF calibrated, and still, the old PX60U beats it, color-wise, hands down. Yes, the G15 has amazing clarity being a 1080P set, but otherwise, I'm not as impressed as all the other drooling owners.


I'm not a drooling owner of a G10 (or G15) so I have no dog in this fight....except the underdog, my PX60/600 units that I own. I don't exactly know why you say the color is crap? There should be no problem calibrating the color pretty nearly to SMPTE-C color gamut. That combined with the resolution of 1080p should make nearly anyone happy.;)

Also, for what it's worth, the G10's are THX certified.

Check out this webpage, you might find it interesting.
Just add http: to the beginning.
//home.att.net/~pldexnis/potpourri/color-gamut-update.html

Can someone please explain to me why my TV (42PX60U) likes to change brightness levels depending on how much light or contrast is in a scene?
I've read numerous pages and I noticed this question was asked in this thread, but no one responded to it that I saw. I see this adjusting of the screen more often now and its getting annoying, mostly on dark scenes.

I’m actually quite surprised nobody else mentioned this on this thread. I’ve got the EU version, but I bet it’s nearly identical to the US version.

Anyway, try Cinema instead of Standard. You can leave brightness set at 0. Black is really black at +2, but 2% above black is still clearly visible under all circumstances when you set brightness at 0. You can set contrast as you would for Standard. There is way more shadow detail in Cinema mode and your brightness doesn’t change on the fly like it does in Standard.

If you have DVE try the test patterns with a bright white square in the middle. You’ll notice that Standard mode will totally wipe out all black detail when the amount of white goes up, while Cinema preserves it. I guess there is still some dynamic contrast going on in Standard mode.

BTW, I have also noticed that colors are way too saturated in darker parts of the image when using Standard opposed to Cinema. Faces become orange while they are natural in brighter scenes.

Again, this is for the 42PV60E, not 60U.

Amazing clarity as in sharper picture even with Sat or Cable?

How about brightness; 60U vs G series?

bob

I'm OTA and Blu-Ray so I don't know about Sat or Cable. 1080P on the G-series looks extremely good on those HD sources. Yes, the G-series is brighter than the 60U and is probably plenty bright for most situations, but I never thought the brightness was a problem on the 60U.

I don't exactly know why you say the color is crap? There should be no problem calibrating the color pretty nearly to SMPTE-C color gamut. That combined with the resolution of 1080p should make nearly anyone happy.;)

Perhaps he didn't get something right when he calibrated my G-series. It was horrible out-of-box and really only looks marginally better since it's been calibrated. The same guy did two previous HD sets for me--one being the 60U--but this doesn't look anywhere close to the other two.

I'm OTA and Blu-Ray so I don't know about Sat or Cable. 1080P on the G-series looks extremely good on those HD sources. Yes, the G-series is brighter than the 60U and is probably plenty bright for most situations, but I never thought the brightness was a problem on the 60U.

That's good. 2 X1's that I have seen were very dim!

I guess I need to see the V and G series and get over my disappointment on the X series.


bob

I’m actually quite surprised nobody else mentioned this on this thread. I’ve got the EU version, but I bet it’s nearly identical to the US version.

Anyway, try Cinema instead of Standard. You can leave brightness set at 0. Black is really black at +2, but 2% above black is still clearly visible under all circumstances when you set brightness at 0. You can set contrast as you would for Standard. There is way more shadow detail in Cinema mode and your brightness doesn’t change on the fly like it does in Standard.

If you have DVE try the test patterns with a bright white square in the middle. You’ll notice that Standard mode will totally wipe out all black detail when the amount of white goes up, while Cinema preserves it. I guess there is still some dynamic contrast going on in Standard mode.

BTW, I have also noticed that colors are way too saturated in darker parts of the image when using Standard opposed to Cinema. Faces become orange while they are natural in brighter scenes.

Again, this is for the 42PV60E, not 60U.

The out of the box settings don't mean anything. When I got my first plasma (PX60U) they had the "picture" (contrast) setting maxed out on the "standard" setting. After I calibrated it for DVD's, I was running on "-5" for picture and if I recall, around "0" for brightness, but they changed as the unit aged. The modes, Cinema, Standard and Vivid mean nothing....other than what Panasonic set them at during manufacture and for the life of me, I can't figure out what they had in mind. You can set them up any way you want. You could use the Vivid setting to setup your Cinema settings if you wanted to or if you wanted two different Cinema settings. As for Color, I use a minolta colorimeter. I went into the factory settings on my PX60, but for most people, they can just adjust the user color balance, unless something else is wrong.


Perhaps he didn't get something right when he calibrated my G-series. It was horrible out-of-box and really only looks marginally better since it's been calibrated. The same guy did two previous HD sets for me--one being the 60U--but this doesn't look anywhere close to the other two.

I think it's obvious that he didn't get something right, since you're not happy with it, but you seem to like your PX60U unit, if I understand you. However, other than the description "horrible" -lol :p what exactly are you seeing that you don't like?:confused:

I think it's obvious that he didn't get something right, since you're not happy with it, but you seem to like your PX60U unit, if I understand you. However, other than the description "horrible" -lol :p what exactly are you seeing that you don't like?:confused:

Yeah, I suppose "horrible" isn't a very technical term, is it? :D Out of the box, it had an extreme green push. Not bad if you're watching old sci-fi films about martians, but not too great for normal flesh-toned humans. THX mode is really close to being accurate, but it's pretty dim to watch unless the room is totally dark. 48 Hz has a nasty flicker. I don't want to get too off-topic for this thread since we're now discussing a G-series TV.

You're right--I'm extremely happy with the Panny PX60U.

48 Hz has a nasty flicker.
You're right--I'm extremely happy with the Panny PX60U.

Some people are more sensitive to flicker than others, that's why some of the new TVs are doing 240Hz so they can be set at 120 for 1080p/24. But hey, look at it this way, the PX60U doesn't do 24 frame at all.:)

Anyone owning a PS3 having problems with this set? I own a 40GB PS3 and I get constant flickering over HDMI JUST when playing a game or a movie, it never happens when in the XMB. I've tried changing the cable but the problem persists. My temporal solution is connecting and disconnecting the HDMI cable, this fixes the problem until I reboot my console.

My HDTV receiver works perfectly fine over HDMI, although I do get some message on some channels stating my TV is not HDCP compatible.

Any ideas?

Anyone owning a PS3 having problems with this set? I own a 40GB PS3 and I get constant flickering over HDMI JUST when playing a game or a movie, it never happens when in the XMB. I've tried changing the cable but the problem persists. My temporal solution is connecting and disconnecting the HDMI cable, this fixes the problem until I reboot my console.

My HDTV receiver works perfectly fine over HDMI, although I do get some message on some channels stating my TV is not HDCP compatible.

Any ideas?

It sounds like an HDMI handshake issue, unfortunately you can't do much about it other than trying to get a newer PS3 or changing TVs. You could also switch to component cables although Sony's proprietary component cables cost a good deal more than normal component cables.

It sounds like an HDMI handshake issue, unfortunately you can't do much about it other than trying to get a newer PS3 or changing TVs. You could also switch to component cables although Sony's proprietary component cables cost a good deal more than normal component cables.

Could it be that my HDMI port is malfunctioning? I could try component cables, but will blu-ray movies and games play at 1080i or 1080p?

Could it be that my HDMI port is malfunctioning? I could try component cables, but will blu-ray movies and games play at 1080i or 1080p?

Component cables will carry 1080p. Some people prefer component cables because there are no handshake issues but you will need a separate connection for audio. Also you can only get the new HD audio codecs if connected via HDMI or with analog connections.

I guess it could be the HDMI port, have you tried both of the HDMI ports on the TV? If it's the port on the PS3 there isn't a way that I know of to test it. I also have an old 40gig PS3. For the past year it has been connected to my Panasonic 50pz800u but before that it was hooked up to my 42px60u and performed without issue.

Component cables will carry 1080p. Some people prefer component cables because there are no handshake issues but you will need a separate connection for audio. Also you can only get the new HD audio codecs if connected via HDMI or with analog connections.

I guess it could be the HDMI port, have you tried both of the HDMI ports on the TV? If it's the port on the PS3 there isn't a way that I know of to test it. I also have an old 40gig PS3. For the past year it has been connected to my Panasonic 50pz800u but before that it was hooked up to my 42px60u and performed without issue.

I'll have to try my PS3 on another TV and see if the problem persists. If the port was malfunctioning, it would malfunction everywhere right? Not just when playing games or movies, because if I'm just browsing the XMB, it works well.

That's good to know because my PX60 is in the spare room and doesn't get watched very often. Sometimes I'll turn it on and a QAM channel has disappeared and it's such a hassle to go through a complete scan just to pick one channel up again. Thanks for sharing, triple_vee, and welcome to the forum.
Hey Buckeye,
User error, I got my coax cables mixed up (what can I say...it's a 20 year old house). When I scanned in ANT mode, I scanned the coax coming from outside. When I connected the coax from Comcast, I had to scan in CABLE mode.

I am deleting my previous (incorrect) post.

Could it be that my HDMI port is malfunctioning? I could try component cables, but will blu-ray movies and games play at 1080i or 1080p?

It's not likely an HDMI port issue. Why would you ask whether Blu-ray movies will play at 1080i or 1080p ?:confused: Since PX60/600 only does 720p anyway (and make sure you aren't trying to feed a 1080p/24 to the PX60u).

Assuming you have all the menu settings on the PS3's output and the PX60's input correct, it sounds like it's most likely a defective cable issue. I have an old 40gig PS3 that works fine on my 50PX60U.

It's not likely an HDMI port issue. Why would you ask whether Blu-ray movies will play at 1080i or 1080p ?:confused: Since PX60/600 only does 720p anyway (and make sure you aren't trying to feed a 1080p/24 to the PX60u).

Assuming you have all the menu settings on the PS3's output and the PX60's input correct, it sounds like it's most likely a defective cable issue. I have an old 40gig PS3 that works fine on my 50PX60U.

Actually, these sets will accept 1080p input. It is then downscaled to the native resolution of 768p, not 720p.

Junior Nitpicker Doug

I seem to remember that people reported reduced performance when inputting 1080p on these 60/600U sets, and that 1080i actually worked better.... like even though they could accept it, they didn't really handle it correctly. am I crazy?

I seem to remember that people reported reduced performance when inputting 1080p on these 60/600U sets, and that 1080i actually worked better.... like even though they could accept it, they didn't really handle it correctly. am I crazy?

Yes you are crazy! Just kidding.

I have been sending 1080p. I tried 720p, 1080i, and 1080p. They all looked nearly identical so I just left it at 1080p since that is what most BR discs are encoded at. I am using a 42". YMMV

I seem to remember that people reported reduced performance when inputting 1080p on these 60/600U sets, and that 1080i actually worked better.... like even though they could accept it, they didn't really handle it correctly. am I crazy?

It might have been me (the reporter; not the crazy person;)).

I once saw jaggies in the opening titles text on a BD at 1080p (it was Get Smart). When I switched to 1080i, the jaggies were gone. A few months ago, I switched back to 1080p to see what would happen. It seems to look fine, but I have not tried that same disc again (it was a rental - you want me to buy that thing?), nor have I noticed any jaggies on any other disc.

Doug

It's not likely an HDMI port issue. Why would you ask whether Blu-ray movies will play at 1080i or 1080p ?:confused: Since PX60/600 only does 720p anyway (and make sure you aren't trying to feed a 1080p/24 to the PX60u).

Assuming you have all the menu settings on the PS3's output and the PX60's input correct, it sounds like it's most likely a defective cable issue. I have an old 40gig PS3 that works fine on my 50PX60U.

How do I know if I'm feeding a 1080p/24? Yesterday I tried connecting a different HDMI cable in the port 1 of my TV and everything worked perfect, no flickering whatsoever. I'll have to give it a few more tries and see if the problem is the HDMI port 2 in my TV. I don't think it's the cable since I've tried two HDMI cables for my PS3 in port two, although it could be a vague possibility that both cables were defect.

Will there really be a difference from component 1080i to HDMI 1080i? I'm seriously considering changing to components if the problem persists.
Can anyone confirm that component can do 1080p?

How do I know if I'm feeding a 1080p/24? Yesterday I tried connecting a different HDMI cable in the port 1 of my TV and everything worked perfect, no flickering whatsoever. I'll have to give it a few more tries and see if the problem is the HDMI port 2 in my TV. I don't think it's the cable since I've tried two HDMI cables for my PS3 in port two, although it could be a vague possibility that both cables were defect.

Will there really be a difference from component 1080i to HDMI 1080i? I'm seriously considering changing to components if the problem persists.
Can anyone confirm that component can do 1080p?

Component has the ability to carry 1080p but I don't know of any players that will ouput 1080p over component.

Component has the ability to carry 1080p but I don't know of any players that will ouput 1080p over component.

How about feeding 1080p/24 to my set? Anyone knows how to disable that in a PS3?

yes, that should be under "Video Settings", there is an option to control 24p output.

howdy,
anybody have an idea where to find the service manual for the TH-42PX600U? Mine suffered the 10-bod and wanted to test my boards. Over in the Panni master thread there is only the 10th-Gen stuff which really doesn't apply to my set. Maybe it does? Any help would be greatly appreciated!
thanks...
Jeff

I'm still searching thru posts...

howdy,
anybody have an idea where to find the service manual for the TH-42PX600U? Mine suffered the 10-bod and wanted to test my boards. Over in the Panni master thread there is only the 10th-Gen stuff which really doesn't apply to my set. Maybe it does? Any help would be greatly appreciated!
thanks...
Jeff

I'm still searching thru posts...

THE 42, 50 & 58 ALL SHARE THE SAME INSTRUCTION MANUAL. Have you tried the Pannie website archived files?

I have not tried that site, is there a link available? I'm at the pannie site now searching, thanks!


I'm looking for the service manual and not the instruction manual. just wanted to clarify that... ;)

howdy,
anybody have an idea where to find the service manual for the TH-42PX600U? Mine suffered the 10-bod and wanted to test my boards. Over in the Panni master thread there is only the 10th-Gen stuff which really doesn't apply to my set. Maybe it does? Any help would be greatly appreciated!
thanks...
Jeff

I'm still searching thru posts...

Available here but it costs $16.49.
http://www.servicemanuals.net/ServiceManual/PANASONIC/42px600u/pos1/results.aspx

Here's another one for $7.95.
http://srvman.com/p8u8rouicth42p8600urmrvicm28u58lgp9duch8rrir-p-294.html

Thanks buckeye. I purchased what I needed and I appreciate it...

^ You're welcome, glad to help.

good news!

What model do you have. I hate silver but love the pq on the 50/60u's

be nice to have black and that vintage pq!


Bob

th-58px60u

My Panasonic TH-50PX6U television has a display problem where the top half of the display has black (and some colored) lines on it. I replaced the SU board with one off Ebay (seller claimed it was good but the problem persists.

Does anyone have the service manual for this television, and if so could they please assist me in determining the problem?

Thanks.

Actually I ws wondering what model BuddTx had. I thought all 50/60U's were silver bezeled?

bob

I have the TH-58PX60U
Flat Black Bezel that is right next to the display, and a silver bezel frame around the outside of the black bezel.

Do a search of Google Images for "TH-58PX60U" and you will see the Black and silver bezel.

If anyone is able and willing to measure it, I'm curious what others are getting for light output for a 0% black pattern on the PX60U series. A year ago I was getting around 0.042 ftL for my 50PX60U (using an Eye-One, ColorHCFR, and AVS HD 709). Now it's slightly higher, hovering around 0.049 ftL. I don't expect Kuro performance, but I've always felt that my black level was higher than average for this TV.

And yes, I know that the Eye-One is not the most accurate tool for measuring black levels. However, I've used it to measure the black level on a PN58B540, and I got 0.015 ftL, which seems to be in the right ballpark for that TV.

If anyone is able and willing to measure it, I'm curious what others are getting for light output for a 0% black pattern on the PX60U series. A year ago I was getting around 0.042 ftL for my 50PX60U (using an Eye-One, ColorHCFR, and AVS HD 709). Now it's slightly higher, hovering around 0.049 ftL. I don't expect Kuro performance, but I've always felt that my black level was higher than average for this TV.

And yes, I know that the Eye-One is not the most accurate tool for measuring black levels. However, I've used it to measure the black level on a PN58B540, and I got 0.015 ftL, which seems to be in the right ballpark for that TV.


The problem with the Eye-One, besides not being that accurate is repeatability. Take a reading, then take two more 15 minutes apart and see what the difference is.;)

Also, you don't say under what conditions you're taking the reading. Night, day, room with black walls etc., not to mention your actual adjustments on the unit. I use a Minolta LS-100, which can measure very tiny spots on the screen with a 1% acceptance angle and is very accurate, but, the walls surrounding my 50PX60U are white, so it will affect my reading.:)

The problem with the Eye-One, besides not being that accurate is repeatability. Take a reading, then take two more 15 minutes apart and see what the difference is.;)

Also, you don't say under what conditions you're taking the reading. Night, day, room with black walls etc., not to mention your actual adjustments on the unit. I use a Minolta LS-100, which can measure very tiny spots on the screen with a 1% acceptance angle and is very accurate, but, the walls surrounding my 50PX60U are white, so it will affect my reading.:)

-All readings taken under the same conditions (night, nearly pitch black room, both Eye-One and TV warmed up).
-Black level correctly calibrated (for my set, this means Brightness = 7 in user menu, Standard mode, color temp = Warm)
-I'm getting consistent, repeatable readings with the Eye-one. But over the years, they've risen. For example, I took 7 or 8 readings over the past couple of nights, and all readings were 0.049 or 0.050 ftL. I took many, many readings about a year ago, and the results were 0.042 - 0.043 ftL at that time.

Unfortunately, I didn't have the Eye-One the first few years I had the set, so I don't have measurements from back then, but I suspect the black level has been rising steadily all along.

Also, the Samsung I mentioned was measured in the same room under the same lighting conditions by the same person (me). After I made the necessary correction to tbe Brighness setting on that TV, it had a much better black level to my eyes, which was corroborated by my reading (0.015 ftL).

I understand the Eye-One's limitations. I was just curious if other folks would get measurements in the same ball park for these four year old sets.

-All readings taken under the same conditions (night, nearly pitch black room, both Eye-One and TV warmed up).
-Black level correctly calibrated (for my set, this means Brightness = 7 in user menu, Standard mode, color temp = Warm)


Although you say Brightness is set at 7, that doesn't mean anything to me. My Brightness is set to +5. The important thing is have you checked the brightness & Contrast level with the same test pattern you original set the black with?;)

Although you say Brightness is set at 7, that doesn't mean anything to me. My Brightness is set to +5. The important thing is have you checked the brightness & Contrast level with the same test pattern you original set the black with?;)

Yes. :)

the i1 (assuming it is the D2/LT and not the Pro, he didn't say) is actually pretty accurate with measuring luminance and is quite repeatable. It's not as accurate as that LS-100 but it's pretty darn good. Pro calibrators (e.g. Tom Huffman) have demonstrated the accuracy of luminance readings from Eye One D2 compared to reference probes.

The important thing is have you checked the brightness & Contrast level with the same test pattern you original set the black with?

he said it was correctly calibrated. I assume that means he set it correctly with the pluge pattern.

AVSman - I believe your measurements, and I am also sure your black levels are higher than they used to be. My PH10UK measures around 0.050 ft-L also (after being at 0.034 1.5 yrs ago). My friend's 9UK measured around 0.032 ft-L last time I checked. 60U's out of the box should be around 0.015, but the black levels degrade.

AVSman - I believe your measurements, and I am also sure your black levels are higher than they used to be. My PH10UK measures around 0.050 ft-L also (after being at 0.034 1.5 yrs ago). My friend's 9UK measured around 0.032 ft-L last time I checked. 60U's out of the box should be around 0.015, but the black levels degrade.

Of course there's going to be shift in all electronic equipment over time (including the meters used to test it), however, there should be no problem recalibrating it. :)

the i1 (assuming it is the D2/LT and not the Pro, he didn't say) is actually pretty accurate with measuring luminance and is quite repeatable. It's not as accurate as that LS-100 but it's pretty darn good. Pro calibrators (e.g. Tom Huffman) have demonstrated the accuracy of luminance readings from Eye One D2 compared to reference probes.



he said it was correctly calibrated. I assume that means he set it correctly with the pluge pattern.

AVSman - I believe your measurements, and I am also sure your black levels are higher than they used to be. My PH10UK measures around 0.050 ft-L also (after being at 0.034 1.5 yrs ago). My friend's 9UK measured around 0.032 ft-L last time I checked. 60U's out of the box should be around 0.015, but the black levels degrade.

Thanks, batpig. Yes, I have the Eye-One Display LT.

That’s disappointing that the black level rises so much over time. I wonder if it would be possible for a calibrator/service technician to adjust the drive voltages down, so that the black level could be improved. If I could get it back down in the 0.015 - .018 ftL range, it’d be a huge improvement over what it is now.

Hey, if this were possible, it could be a whole new market - “Recapture your youth and restore your black level to what it once was!” :)

honestly I doubt it. Assuming your brightness is calibrated correctly, MLL is MLL and that's what you are going to get. It's definitely unfortunate...

honestly I doubt it. Assuming your brightness is calibrated correctly, MLL is MLL and that's what you are going to get. It's definitely unfortunate...


What do you mean by MLL is MLL?

minimum luminance is minimum luminance... the point is that, if MLL has risen, you can't just compensate by lowering the brightness setting. Once you lower the brightness to the "threshold" value where black is being displayed at the minimum luminance level of the display, continuing to lower the brightness won't do anything but crush the grays, the "black" can't get any blacker...

minimum luminance is minimum luminance... the point is that, if MLL has risen, you can't just compensate by lowering the brightness setting. Once you lower the brightness to the "threshold" value where black is being displayed at the minimum luminance level of the display, continuing to lower the brightness won't do anything but crush the grays, the "black" can't get any blacker...

While I agree that if you're already at black, then if you lower the brightness you're going to crush or clip the blacks, no question about it.

Are you indicating that the screen raster is displaying a low glow of its own? Are you familiar with all the settings in the service menu? There's practically nothing that can't be adjusted.....if you know what the cryptic labels represent.

honestly I doubt it. Assuming your brightness is calibrated correctly, MLL is MLL and that's what you are going to get. It's definitely unfortunate...

I agree with what you are saying about lowering the brightness not helping MLL. I was actually referring to adjusting the voltage settings on the panel itself. In other words, taking off the back cover and physically turning the correct screws that determine the drive voltage(s). It's dangerous to do so without knowing 100% what you are doing (which I don't, so I'm not going to try). I'm just wondering if it's ever been done successfully on a set to restore black level performance.

(This is assuming that the rising black level is due to an increase in the drive voltage over time.)

I agree with what you are saying about lowering the brightness not helping MLL. I was actually referring to adjusting the voltage settings on the panel itself. In other words, taking off the back cover and physically turning the correct screws that determine the drive voltage(s). It's dangerous to do so without knowing 100% what you are doing (which I don't, so I'm not going to try). I'm just wondering if it's ever been done successfully on a set to restore black level performance.

(This is assuming that the rising black level is due to an increase in the drive voltage over time.)

It can certainly be adjusted. I have the SM somewhere but I haven;t been able to find it. If I do, I'll post the info. I'm in NY now and I can't remember if it's here or down in Florida.:confused:

Well, I finally opened up my 50PX60U to check out the panel voltages. I measured the Vsus, Ve, Vset, Vad, and Vscn voltages, hoping that one would be higher than the values in the service manual and panel label. They were all pretty close (in fact, most were a few volts lower), so I didn't know which one to adjust down. I thought I could start turning them down one at a time to see which one affected the black level, but it was getting late and I decided to maybe ask around some more to see if anyone knew for sure.

So, if anyone knows the answer, or where to find it, I'd love to hear about it! :)

Does anyone have any recommended settings for the Harmony One remote and their PX60? I have trouble getting the T.V. to power on in sequence and I'm not sure if I should adjust the delay on my remote or not.

Thanks,

Alan

Does anyone have any recommended settings for the Harmony One remote and their PX60? I have trouble getting the T.V. to power on in sequence and I'm not sure if I should adjust the delay on my remote or not.

Thanks,

Alan

I don't use Harmony remotes, but, did you check here:

http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin/mboard/rc-harmony/list.cgi

My personal opinion is that you probably need to increase the delay (press on time) for the xxPX60U TVs.

How does the 50PX60U compare to the newer 1080P models? I'm wondering if it's worth upgrading. If it's a big difference I would...if it's a small difference I could live with it for a year or two more. I sit about 7-8 feet away. I have noticed that the black level is turning grey.

How does the 50PX60U compare to the newer 1080P models? I'm wondering if it's worth upgrading. If it's a big difference I would...if it's a small difference I could live with it for a year or two more. I sit about 7-8 feet away. I have noticed that the black level is turning grey.


It depends on what you're watching. If you watch a lot of Blu-ray's, then you might consider upgrading, since they look a little better. However, if you're watching mostly OTA material, the difference isn't that great, if you can tell at all IMO. OTA material is either 1080i or 720p anyway, so if you can wait a year or two, you might want to consider a 3D TV if they don't turnout to be a fad.;)

It depends on what you're watching. If you watch a lot of Blu-ray's, then you might consider upgrading, since they look a little better. However, if you're watching mostly OTA material, the difference isn't that great, if you can tell at all IMO. OTA material is either 1080i or 720p anyway, so if you can wait a year or two, you might want to consider a 3D TV if they don't turnout to be a fad.;)

This is what I'm thinking as I watch mostly Direct TV. Should I stick with a DVD player or will there be a big jump in quality going to a Blue Ray?

This is what I'm thinking as I watch mostly Direct TV. Should I stick with a DVD player or will there be a big jump in quality going to a Blue Ray?

Generally speaking, the Blu-rays will look better...even on the Panasonic.:) However, as always, it depends on the DVD or Blu-ray. I have SD DVD's that look spectacular on the Panasonic (50px60). By the same token, I have some Blu-rays of older pictures that look like sh!t IMO.

Overall though, the Blu-rays (especially of new pictures) will look better. Because of that, I no longer buy SD DVDs, only Blu-rays. I even replaced many SD DVDs with Blu-rays when I see there's an improvement. Many Blu-ray's of older movies were already originally mastered in HD a number of years ago. As a result, the SD DVD's were very good, however, now, when they went to make the Blu-ray, they used the same master, so it's usually not much better than the old SD DVD, if at all.:(

One nice feature I've noticed with Blu-ray releases on a 720 set is that letterbox can be zoomed to fullscreen with no noticeable degradation, at least with my old eyes. I dislike letterbox, so that's a plus for me.

Mine has now twice made a crackling sound and picture off for a second anyone had this problem of course my Mack extended warranty expired 4 months ago.

I have a 58 inch 60u which just turned 3 years old. Lately when watching black and white programs I notice that some areas are slightly more pinkish than others. The areas of pink tint are not at the sides, or top/ bottom, so not due to uneven aging of phosphors. It can also been seen on a solid light grey screen. Basically the grey scale is unevenly tinted in different areas of the screen. I never noticed this before. Otherwise the set still looks great. Have others noticed this issue? I am sure there is no fix for it short of replacing the panel and or boards. I can live with it..only anal AVS type people would notice it..lol.

OK... I can get into the service menu (on my TH37PX60):-
- Bass to full, Treble to min.
- Analog channel 99.
- Hold down -/TV and click 0 on the remote three times.

So I'm in the service menu, but how on earth do I now reduce/adjust the overscan? Preferably while looking at a testcard from the HDMI channel?

I have a 58 inch 60u which just turned 3 years old. Lately when watching black and white programs I notice that some areas are slightly more pinkish than others. The areas of pink tint are not at the sides, or top/ bottom, so not due to uneven aging of phosphors. It can also been seen on a solid light grey screen. Basically the grey scale is unevenly tinted in different areas of the screen. I never noticed this before. Otherwise the set still looks great. Have others noticed this issue? I am sure there is no fix for it short of replacing the panel and or boards. I can live with it..only anal AVS type people would notice it..lol.

I have noticed some pinkish discoloration an the left hand side of mine with a full white or gray screen. Hasen't really bothered me enough to investigate.

I have a 58 inch 60u which just turned 3 years old. Lately when watching black and white programs I notice that some areas are slightly more pinkish than others. The areas of pink tint are not at the sides, or top/ bottom, so not due to uneven aging of phosphors. It can also been seen on a solid light grey screen. Basically the grey scale is unevenly tinted in different areas of the screen. I never noticed this before. Otherwise the set still looks great. Have others noticed this issue? I am sure there is no fix for it short of replacing the panel and or boards. I can live with it..only anal AVS type people would notice it..lol.

I haven't noticed it on my 50PX60u (yet). However, a few years ago I originally bought a Philips 50" plasma and it had pinkish shading all throughout the screen on B&W material. The company claimed it was a "problem" with the power supply. Not wanting or looking to find out if that was true or not, I returned the set and got the 60u. I run into enough mysteries and don't need any others.:rolleyes:

I'm having trouble installing firmware on my Panasonic 50px60u. I follow the instructions on Panasonic's website by installing the firmware onto a SD card, but when I put the SD card into the slot in the front of the TV, nothing happens. According to the instructions a menu is supposed to pop up. What am I doing wrong?

I'm having trouble installing firmware on my Panasonic 50px60u. I follow the instructions on Panasonic's website by installing the firmware onto a SD card, but when I put the SD card into the slot in the front of the TV, nothing happens. According to the instructions a menu is supposed to pop up. What am I doing wrong?

It might be because you need to first format the SD card with Panasonic's software. You're not supposed to use windows format.

Unless you're having one of the specific problems the firmware updates solves, I would recommend that you not update. Once you update you CAN'T go back. Even with the "updates", I still have problems with the tuner, especially when used with QAM.

It might be because you need to first format the SD card with Panasonic's software. You're not supposed to use windows format.

Unless you're having one of the specific problems the firmware updates solves, I would recommend that you not update. Once you update you CAN'T go back. Even with the "updates", I still have problems with the tuner, especially when used with QAM.

Yeah, I did the formatting first, but still had the problem. The problem I'm having is some yellow streaking occasionally occurring only when the screen is completely white. I'm hoping the firmware will fix the problem.

DFoes anyone know how to stop the TV from autoscanning? Yesterday, I scanned only analog channels since we do not have digital channels. Everything was great, but this morning when I turned on the TV, it had all these blank digital channels. It must have scanned for digital channels overnight on its own.

DFoes anyone know how to stop the TV from autoscanning? Yesterday, I scanned only analog channels since we do not have digital channels. Everything was great, but this morning when I turned on the TV, it had all these blank digital channels. It must have scanned for digital channels overnight on its own.

I assume you're using cable since there aren't many areas that broadcast analog anymore.

Below where you select "CABLE" or "ANTENNA" you are able to select "ANALOG ONLY" or "BOTH", which scans both analog and digital. If you had selected just "ANALOG" it wouldn't have scanned for digital stations. If it's already done, you can select "NO" in the channel edit to prevent those stations from coming up when you use channel up or down on the remote.

It doesn't scan on it's own.

I assume you're using cable since there aren't many areas that broadcast analog anymore.

Below where you select "CABLE" or "ANTENNA" you are able to select "ANALOG ONLY" or "BOTH", which scans both analog and digital. If you had selected just "ANALOG" it wouldn't have scanned for digital stations. If it's already done, you can select "NO" in the channel edit to prevent those stations from coming up when you use channel up or down on the remote.

It doesn't scan on it's own.

No. I only scanned analog and then ran through the channels with the remote and all were analog. Then this morning, there were more digital channels added. I called Panasonic and the woman said that there was no way to stop the TV because the tuner "senses" a signal even though there may not be one. I ended up making all of our analog channels favorites and then only allowing the channel up/down buttons to do favorite channels.

No. I only scanned analog and then ran through the channels with the remote and all were analog. Then this morning, there were more digital channels added. I called Panasonic and the woman said that there was no way to stop the TV because the tuner "senses" a signal even though there may not be one. I ended up making all of our analog channels favorites and then only allowing the channel up/down buttons to do favorite channels.


Then why don't you just select NO in the channel edit menu. That way they won't come up anymore at all.

I guess you're on cable and the tuner sensed "digital black burst" (where there is no picture but a black burst signal is still be sent out on that channel). Are you sure that you don't receive non-scrambled digital channels?

Panasonic TH-42PX60U Optimal Picture Settings (ISF Calibration)
Picture Mode Standard
Picture +22
Brightness +8
Color -1
Tint -4
Sharpness -14
Color Temperature Warm
Enhanced Black Level Off



Thanks very much


I used this, and it made my TH-42PX60U that I got a year from relative look so much better now! I did turn up the color a bit to saturate it a bit more.
I'm glad to see there are still lots of happy owners of this TV kicking around. Thought about upgrading to TC-P50GT25 the past few weeks, but just can't find a good reason to replace my TV especially when it looks much better than most other new TVs on display at stores now days.
When I saw my friend's 55" Vizio Full Array LED TV, the picture did not look as good. He did not change any setting or had it professionally calibrated, he just use factory preset ones and they don't look good. Especially the motion judder that is easily noticeable, it is extremely distracting almost unwatchable. Maybe because I've never had a 1080p/24 fed to my TV that I have never encountered judder before. But I'm glad my TV does not do that.

Can anyone tell me what the chroma subsampling is on the TH42PX60U???

My TH-58PX600U is thankfully still going strong. I rarely have used the tuner, mostly when using split-screen function as the other input. For the first time I was having problems getting my cableco's clear QAM major network channels after a recent channel assignment realignment. After searching this forum, I decided to try updating my FW, which was still the original 1.76 it shipped with to see if that would help.

I'm happy to report that FW 2.04 fixed the problem. I had no idea Charter had so many of its QAM channels in the clear. I would encourage anyone experiencing similar problems to update their FW.

The picture on this set still rivals the best I've seen and kicks butt over any LCD 1080p panel available today.

The picture on this set still rivals the best I've seen and kicks butt over any LCD 1080p panel available today.

Hear, hear. We have two 1080p LCDs in other rooms of the house, and I'm always disappointed when I look at one after viewing the Panasonic.

Mine is still going strong at 4.25 years of age, and hope it keeps going for a good while longer.

Doug

Thanks. Although I rarely use the tuner, I too have problems getting the Charter channels. I don't have an SD reader/writer. Can I use my camera with an SD card? Copy the firmware to the camera and then on to the TV?

My TH-58PX600U is thankfully still going strong. I rarely have used the tuner, mostly when using split-screen function as the other input. For the first time I was having problems getting my cableco's clear QAM major network channels after a recent channel assignment realignment. After searching this forum, I decided to try updating my FW, which was still the original 1.76 it shipped with to see if that would help.

I'm happy to report that FW 2.04 fixed the problem. I had no idea Charter had so many of its QAM channels in the clear. I would encourage anyone experiencing similar problems to update their FW.

The picture on this set still rivals the best I've seen and kicks butt over any LCD 1080p panel available today.

Thanks. Although I rarely use the tuner, I too have problems getting the Charter channels. I don't have an SD reader/writer. Can I use my camera with an SD card? Copy the firmware to the camera and then on to the TV?

I have no idea if you'll be able to do it that way or not. It's a small file, only 3.8MB, so any SD card will do. I actually took a 16MB card out of an old broken camera for this purpose. Just so happens I have an SD port on my laptop, though I had never used it previously.

I didn't know you could copy files like this to a camera but if you can, then it's probably worth a try. The FW update instructions are available with the file download on the Panasonic web site. I just used the formatting utility from http://www.sdcard.org/consumers/formatter_3/ as I couldn't find the formatting file recommended on the Panny site and it worked without a hitch.

It might be easier to download the file, put it on a disc or thumbdrive and find somebody who has an SD writer.

Oops, I found a reader right on the front of my computer and I have an old spare SD card handy. Now my problem is formatting the SD card. Panasonic talks about it in their instructions, but I see nowhere where I can download it the formatting software. Any help?

I have no idea if you'll be able to do it that way or not. It's a small file, only 3.8MB, so any SD card will do. I actually took a 16MB card out of an old broken camera for this purpose. Just so happens I have an SD port on my laptop, though I had never used it previously.

I didn't know you could copy files like this to a camera but if you can, then it's probably worth a try. The FW update instructions are available with the file download on the Panasonic web site. I just used the formatting utility from www.sdcardl.org as I couldn't find the formatting file recommended on the Panny site and it worked without a hitch.

It might be easier to download the file, put it on a disc or thumbdrive and find somebody who has an SD writer.

Sorry for the typo in my post above. Here's the link to th SD Formatter that I used:

http://www.sdcard.org/consumers/formatter_3/

My 5+ year-old 42px60u is still going strong as well but it has suffered from the dreaded Panasonic purple snake problem the last year or so. It's annoying to be sure but it still has a great picture overall. My 2.5 year old 50pz800u does, however, clearly have a better picture, especially in THX mode.

Thanks for your help. I have a PX60U, not a 600U. The firmware update is different than yours, but claims to fix the same issue. I was able to get it on an SD card and update the TV's firmware. But alas, it didn't do the job. In fact, now the TV won't even scan the digital channels; it just quits scanning after scanning the analog channels.

I'll do a little more search and maybe contact Panasonic, but it looks bleak. Not a huge deal since I only rarely use the straight cable input to the TV.

Thanks again for the help.

I have no idea if you'll be able to do it that way or not. It's a small file, only 3.8MB, so any SD card will do. I actually took a 16MB card out of an old broken camera for this purpose. Just so happens I have an SD port on my laptop, though I had never used it previously.

I didn't know you could copy files like this to a camera but if you can, then it's probably worth a try. The FW update instructions are available with the file download on the Panasonic web site. I just used the formatting utility from http://www.sdcard.org/consumers/formatter_3/ as I couldn't find the formatting file recommended on the Panny site and it worked without a hitch.

It might be easier to download the file, put it on a disc or thumbdrive and find somebody who has an SD writer.

Did you check the "Mode" in the Auto program menu and make sure it is set to "All" and not to "Analog"? Setup > Program channel > Auto > ANT In (Cable) and Mode (All)

Yes. It actually briefly starts the digital scan and then abruptly stops. Before the new FW it would at least go through the digital scan process. I actually found the broadcast channel HD on some odd-ball numbered channel in the past. I figured that's where Charter had them until I bought a new Vizio for the bedroom and discovered Charter had the broadcast channel HDs right where they should be, X.1, etc.

Did you check the "Mode" in the Auto program menu and make sure it is set to "All" and not to "Analog"? Setup > Program channel > Auto > ANT In (Cable) and Mode (All)

Yes. It actually briefly starts the digital scan and then abruptly stops. Before the new FW it would at least go through the digital scan process. I actually found the broadcast channel HD on some odd-ball numbered channel in the past. I figured that's where Charter had them until I bought a new Vizio for the bedroom and discovered Charter had the broadcast channel HDs right where they should be, X.1, etc.

Since you know the channel numbers from your other TV have you tried a manual channel setup? I'd be curious though what Panasonic has to say.

Since you know the channel numbers from your other TV have you tried a manual channel setup? I'd be curious though what Panasonic has to say.


I complained to Panasonic about that problem with the tuner on my 50PX60 about 18 months ago. Even back at that time their attitude was "that's an old model" if you want us to check it you'll have to pay or get lost. Then I asked if they had or knew of any later firmware to correct the problem or was it inherent in the tuner itself? I know it's the TV since a Sony and another Panasonic I own get QAM channels that the 50PX60 doesn't.

BIGA$$TV - Are you sure that the firmware didn't get corrupted when you installed it?

The manual channel set up only allows you to choose which channels you want from the scan. My scan doesn't have the HD broadcast channels. BTW, I did get the TV to scan the digital channels, but again, no broadcast HDs showed up.

I e-mailed Panasonic. Not hopeful.

Since you know the channel numbers from your other TV have you tried a manual channel setup? I'd be curious though what Panasonic has to say.

The manual channel set up only allows you to choose which channels you want from the scan. My scan doesn't have the HD broadcast channels. BTW, I did get the TV to scan the digital channels, but again, no broadcast HDs showed up.

I e-mailed Panasonic. Not hopeful.

I forgot about that aspect of setting the channels, which I also discovered when I was initially having the problem. I assume that the 600/60 have the same tuner. I guess I just got lucky with this FW update being a fix for my situation. When I originally searched this thread I saw many posts about the shortcomings of this tuner, especially a lack of sensitivity.

As an additional thought, is there anything you can do to improve the signal to your TV? I attacked this from a couple of angles initially and did some re-routing of cable and was able to remove 2 splitters in the line. This did not solve the problem and that's when I did the FW update, however, I was able to see increased SNR and decreased AGC in my DCT6416, which I use with this TV. I wasn't having any problems with any of my STBs or cable modem and the previous levels were within specs, but all of their numbers are improved now FWIW.

Do you think it might be signal strength? I do have the cable split to a DVD recorder, the DVR and to the TV.

I forgot about that aspect of setting the channels, which I also discovered when I was initially having the problem. I assume that the 600/60 have the same tuner. I guess I just got lucky with this FW update being a fix for my situation. When I originally searched this thread I saw many posts about the shortcomings of this tuner, especially a lack of sensitivity.

As an additional thought, is there anything you can do to improve the signal to your TV? I attacked this from a couple of angles initially and did some re-routing of cable and was able to remove 2 splitters in the line. This did not solve the problem and that's when I did the FW update, however, I was able to see increased SNR and decreased AGC in my DCT6416, which I use with this TV. I wasn't having any problems with any of my STBs or cable modem and the previous levels were within specs, but all of their numbers are improved now FWIW.

Do you think it might be signal strength? I do have the cable split to a DVD recorder, the DVR and to the TV.

It's NOT a matter of signal strength.

It's NOT a matter of signal strength.

Probably correct but at this point, what do you have to lose except a few minutes trying it?

Probably correct but at this point, what do you have to lose except a few minutes trying it?


The cost of the drop amps. Not only have I been there and tried that, but, I even swapped TV's between the PX60 and the other that DO WORK.;)

So, it's just an unfixable PX60?

The cost of the drop amps. Not only have I been there and tried that, but, I even swapped TV's between the PX60 and the other that DO WORK.;)

The cost of the drop amps.

I was just thinking of bypassing the two splitters. Seems simple and inexpensive too me.

I was just thinking of bypassing the two splitters. Seems simple and inexpensive too me.

Just a waste of time.

So, it's just an unfixable PX60?

That's what I've been trying to tell you. Unless Panasonic comes up with a fix (which I find highly unlikely since they told me to GFMS 18 months ago).:rolleyes:

This is what Panasonic said after an exchange of several e-mails. LOL!

"Thank you for your response.
This TV do not have the QAM Tuner, Once you Scan your channel, all the program that is support and Provided by your cable provider is what you should get, going directly into the TV, from the wall outlet.
If we can further assist you please call the Panasonic Customer Call Center at (800) 211 7262. Our hours of operation are Monday thru Friday 9 A.M. to 9 P.M. and Saturday ? Sunday 10 A.M. to 7 P.M. Eastern Standard Time."

Since you know the channel numbers from your other TV have you tried a manual channel setup? I'd be curious though what Panasonic has to say.

This is what Panasonic said after an exchange of several e-mails. LOL!

"Thank you for your response.
This TV do not have the QAM Tuner, Once you Scan your channel, all the program that is support and Provided by your cable provider is what you should get, going directly into the TV, from the wall outlet.
If we can further assist you please call the Panasonic Customer Call Center at (800) 211 7262. Our hours of operation are Monday thru Friday 9 A.M. to 9 P.M. and Saturday ? Sunday 10 A.M. to 7 P.M. Eastern Standard Time."

Your response came from a BIGGER A$$hole than I spoke with. Now it doesn't have a QAM tuner?-:D:D-LOL

Now they're changing the specs. See here: http://shop.retrevo.com/m/search/aproduct?c=1041&m=393956&rt=sp

This is what Panasonic said after an exchange of several e-mails. LOL!

"Thank you for your response.
This TV do not have the QAM Tuner

With that kind of a response, I wouldn't know whether to laugh or cry. Thankfully you don't have to use their "non-existent tuner" but still, it's a feature you paid for. I would have expected more out of company like Panasonic. Heck, Toshiba is still supporting their HD DVD players and that medium has been dead for three years.

With that kind of a response, I wouldn't know whether to laugh or cry. Thankfully you don't have to use their "non-existent tuner" but still, it's a feature you paid for. I would have expected more out of company like Panasonic. Heck, Toshiba is still supporting their HD DVD players and that medium has been dead for three years.

They knew the tuner had a problem 18 months ago when I spoke with them, but they NEVER tried to tell me that it didn't even have a QAM tuner since I've been watching the "few" channels that come in....but then drop away and show up at the WRONG channel address. Even the ATSC tuner section has a few problems.:)

They knew the tuner had a problem 18 months ago when I spoke with them, but they NEVER tried to tell me that it didn't even have a QAM tuner since I've been watching the "few" channels that come in....but then drop away and show up at the WRONG channel address. Even the ATSC tuner section has a few problems.:)

Having searched this thread back before I found my fix, they apparently knew about this 3+ years ago.

From what I remember, my 37" px60u has the old QAM64 tuner. When your cable company, and mine, "rearranged" their digital channel selection, our tuners do not have the bandwidth to receive them. They are simply out of our frequency range. To receive these channels we are need the newer QAM256 tuner.

Having searched this thread back before I found my fix, they apparently knew about this 3+ years ago.

If Panasonic was aware of the problem 3 years ago and they had a fix, why wouldn't they have told me 18 months ago? Why did they JUST tell BIGA$$TV that the TV didn't even have a QAM tuner?:rolleyes:

If you found the "fix", would you mind telling me what that is?:confused:


From what I remember, my 37" px60u has the old QAM64 tuner. When your cable company, and mine, "rearranged" their digital channel selection, our tuners do not have the bandwidth to receive them. They are simply out of our frequency range. To receive these channels we are need the newer QAM256 tuner.

That's definitely NOT the problem that I have. Time Warner uses the same channels for regular broadcast stations that match the local ATSC channel numbers (2-1, 4-1, 5-1, 7-1, etc.) and NEVER changed them. While there are channels in the higher frequency range, the free broadcast stations are not on them. They intentionally left them in the lower range so that people with plain basic can get them without a cable box. The problem appears to be the way the quadrature angle is decoded by the tuner, which is why it works "on occasion".

If Panasonic was aware of the problem 3 years ago and they had a fix, why wouldn't they have told me 18 months ago? Why did they JUST tell BIGA$$TV that the TV didn't even have a QAM tuner?:rolleyes:

If you found the "fix", would you mind telling me what that is?:confused:


I already did but that was apparently before you re-joined the thread. POST #7126 > http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=20340976#post20340976

Note that I have a TH-58PX600U, if that makes as difference. I don't know what the difference is, but the FW update fixed my tuner issue. Serendipity? Maybe but that's one heck of a coincidence. I had wasted hours previously trying to get it to map the channels unsuccessfully. Something it at least did in part, when I last ran it basically to get the major networks' QAM channels to use with the split-screen function (not available on the 60, or so I understood).

I'm guessing that the 600 and 60 have the same tuners, so I do wonder about this. BAT stated he needed to use a different FW update ( no surprise there ), so is there a FW fix that Panasonic didn't bother with for the 60s? The recent poster noted that some (all now?) cable systems require a QAM256 tuner to receive all of their channels, so now we're talking a potential hardware issue.

Again, I don't know. I luckily solved my issue, posted that here in hopes of helping others and that's all I can say about that.

I already did but that was apparently before you re-joined the thread. POST #7126 > http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=20340976#post20340976

Note that I have a TH-58PX600U, if that makes as difference. I don't know what the difference is, but the FW update fixed my tuner issue. Serendipity? Maybe but that's one heck of a coincidence. I had wasted hours previously trying to get it to map the channels unsuccessfully. Something it at least did in part, when I last ran it basically to get the major networks' QAM channels to use with the split-screen function (not available on the 60, or so I understood).

I'm guessing that the 600 and 60 have the same tuners, so I do wonder about this. BAT stated he needed to use a different FW update ( no surprise there ), so is there a FW fix that Panasonic didn't bother with for the 60s? The recent poster noted that some (all now?) cable systems require a QAM256 tuner to receive all of their channels, so now we're talking a potential hardware issue.

Again, I don't know. I luckily solved my issue, posted that here in hopes of helping others and that's all I can say about that.


Actually, there is a tuner difference. In addition, if I recall, the PX600 (which was more expensive) had a dual tuner and might have even been a different brand. Is that correct? That's why Panasonic just didn't want to BOTHER to correct any problems in the lowly PX60's.:mad:

Actually, there is a tuner difference. In addition, if I recall, the PX600 (which was more expensive) had a dual tuner and might have even been a different brand. Is that correct?

I just don't know if the tuners are different or not. Actually that seems like it would have been an odd engineering choice as mfgrs usually try to use as many of the same components as possible in the same line, however, the 600U has CableCard capability (I've never utilized it) and FAIK that may have required a different QAM tuner, so you're probably correct. The specs list NTSC and ATSC/QAM tuners for both models and nothing more, so not much help there.

I don't think there are dual tuners. Split-screen function requires using two different inputs and if there were dual tuners, then I think you would be able to watch two different channels from the RF input and you cannot.

I've never tried the ATSC tuner. The closest transmitter is over 50 miles from me and the rest put me in the ultra to deep fringe areas of reception. I've been tempted to put up an antenna (actually I would need a combo) and rotator on more than one occasion but that would be a few hundred dollar experiment as a self-install just to find out what I could actually receive and then I'd probably be into an amp/etc. with a couple of other TVs to feed. Trees, hills and likely multi-path plus the fact that I watch little in the way of broadcast TV have kept me from pursuing this. CableTV is just too easy. If I ever decided to dump cable, who knows? Actually with what I read searching this thread re: tuner issues, many felt sensitivity was a problem with these tuners (600U v 60U, I'm not sure now), so that might even be a further issue complicating my chances for OTA reception.

I just don't know if the tuners are different or not. Actually that seems like it would have been an odd engineering choice as mfgrs usually try to use as many of the same components as possible in the same line, however, the 600U has CableCard capability (I've never utilized it) and FAIK that may have required a different QAM tuner, so you're probably correct. The specs list NTSC and ATSC/QAM tuners for both models and nothing more, so not much help there.

I don't think there are dual tuners. Split-screen function requires using two different inputs and if there were dual tuners, then I think you would be able to watch two different channels from the RF input and you cannot.

I've never tried the ATSC tuner. The closest transmitter is over 50 miles from me and the rest put me in the ultra to deep fringe areas of reception. I've been tempted to put up an antenna (actually I would need a combo) and rotator on more than one occasion but that would be a few hundred dollar experiment as a self-install just to find out what I could actually receive and then I'd probably be into an amp/etc. with a couple of other TVs to feed. Trees, hills and likely multi-path plus the fact that I watch little in the way of broadcast TV have kept me from pursuing this. CableTV is just too easy. If I ever decided to dump cable, who knows? Actually with what I read searching this thread re: tuner issues, many felt sensitivity was a problem with these tuners (600U v 60U, I'm not sure now), so that might even be a further issue complicating my chances for OTA reception.

When the early Panasonic QAM tuners first came out there was a lot of information about the different brand tuners they were using as well as the differences in sensitivity. If they were exactly the same, then the firmware updates should be identical. From memory I thought that the 600 had a dual tuner, but I might be confusing it with another model.

At this point in time I've made adjustment in what I use the PX60 for and I have nearly 60K hours on it and it still looks okay so I can't complain about the tuner. ;)

From what I remember, my 37" px60u has the old QAM64 tuner. When your cable company, and mine, "rearranged" their digital channel selection, our tuners do not have the bandwidth to receive them. They are simply out of our frequency range. To receive these channels we are need the newer QAM256 tuner.

FWIW I'm trying to look into this a little further with my 600U, but if you know that the 60U has a QAM64 tuner, then the 600U probably does have a different tuner. At present I am basing my assumption on nothing other than the fact that my cable STBs are indeed QAM256 based and my 600U is tuning into channels on both ends of the spectrum. Not very scientific but my curiosity is piqued.

When the early Panasonic QAM tuners first came out there was a lot of information about the different brand tuners they were using as well as the differences in sensitivity.
Wow, so there could be differences between identical models with different tuners then?

At this point in time I've made adjustment in what I use the PX60 for and I have nearly 60K hours on it and it still looks okay so I can't complain about the tuner. ;)
Yeah, this whole discussion is kind of a sidetrack for me too as I rarely use the TV's tuner. Though I like most of the bonus features and use some occasionally, a stripped down "pro" version probably would have given me everything I really use on a day to day basis.

Latest e-mail from Panasonic (obviously now written by someone who speaks English):

Thank you for your inquiry. I apologize for the misinformation that was provided in the previous post. In some cases, the firmware updates do not take affect until the TV has been reset. Much the same way that Windows often requires a restart after installing new software.
Please follow these steps to reset your TV:
1) Ensure the TV is ON.
2) Press & hold the VOL - button ON THE TV, and the SLEEP button ON THE REMOTE, simultaneously, for more than 5 seconds. The screen should display "Self Check".
3) Unplug the TV for about one minute
4) Plug the TV in, turn it ON, and perform the First Time Setup as per the Operating Instructions.

I followed the instruction. All this does is reset the TV. No help for the tuner. So, I had to redo the input labels and redo the picture and audio settings. BTW, if anyone wants to try the reset, it's the -vol button you hold down. I found this out by trial and error.

Just an FYI for everyone with a 600U.

I have had a Panasonic TH-50PX600U for several years now and a I am supremely happy with it.

On the day before Valentine's day of this year, it lost its ability to switch to the TVGOS screen. This happened overnight while the TV was turned off. Anything I would try to get the TVGOS function to display would fail. It would act as if I never pushed the GUIDE button at all and the TVGOS feature never existed.

This led me to do a master reset on the TV but it didn't help any. TVGOS was still gone.

I did check in the TV's menu system in the "About" category to verify the TVGOS firmware version but it showed BLANK. The set's other firmware versions showed correctly however. Just the TVGOS firmware was gone! The TV acted completely normal in all other respects.

So, I gave Panasonic Tech Support a call and spent hours with 3 different technicians to no avail. I reloaded all of the TV's most recent firmware available from Panasonic numerous times but it never made any difference. They couldn't even guess as to what could be the cause of my bizarre problem. In the end they suggested I take it in for service. I really didn't want to do that.

To make a long story short, seeing as how I am electronically inclined, I decided to take a look at the Panny's service manual to see if any mention was made of TVGOS, but there was no reference to it. I did find that the most likely board to contain the TVGOS firmware was the DT Board (Handles tuner functions). I found a used one on eBay for an insanely cheap price, so I took a chance and replaced that board.

REPLACING THE DT BOARD SOLVED MY TVGOS PROBLEM.

As soon as I powered up the TV after the board replacement, I went and checked the TVGOS firmware version, and it was displaying properly. All TVGOS functions worked perfectly once again.

Since TVGOS firmware occasionally gets updated automatically while the TV is turned off (in addition to the normal Guide data), I suspect that it accidentally erased the existing firmware and there was no way to reload it.

Sorry for the long-winded, dry read. Just thought I would share my experience with others. :)

Since TVGOS firmware occasionally gets updated automatically while the TV is turned off (in addition to the normal Guide data), I suspect that it accidentally erased the existing firmware and there was no way to reload it.


Glad to hear you were able to solve your problem. As I'm cable dependent, I never use this function. When the TV Guide channel on Charter actually had a TV Guide, I did set it up and it would update. Now my TVGNetwork channel is some lame kind of entertainment and/or infomercial channel so it no longer does. Not a loss to me, as I have the cable guide. The TVGOS is still there, just doesn't do anything.

You have me curious though about the above statement. Are you saying that the firmware updates through the TV guide channel?? As in Panasonic provides updates to that network?

Glad to hear you were able to solve your problem. As I'm cable dependent, I never use this function. When the TV Guide channel on Charter actually had a TV Guide, I did set it up and it would update. Now my TVGNetwork channel is some lame kind of entertainment and/or infomercial channel so it no longer does. Not loss to me, as I have the cable guide. The TVGOS is still there, just doesn't do anything.

You have me curious though about the above statement. Are you saying that the firmware updates through the TV guide channel?? As in Panasonic provides updates to that network?

No, the way I understand it, only the TVGOS firmware occasionally gets updates automatically via the TV Guide data stream embedded in one of the broadcast channels.

The only way to update the various Panasonic firmwares is via the SD card slot. The files can be found on Panasonic's support site.

They don't have a firmware file posted for the TVGOS function however, as I later found out.

I think I understand what you're saying now. Yes, I've done the FW update through SD. Again, congrats on your fix!

Hi group,

I realize that this thread is VERY old with 234 pages and has gone dead since May, so I wanted to try to revive it and ask a question.

I've got a TH-50PX60U that is starting to get some age on it with 12,000 hrs. of operation and have noticed that the image has definitely degraded since the initial "wow" calibration that I started with 5-6 years ago. This deradation is certainly to be expected, as I understand it the brightness and other changes are going to occur as the set approaches 60,000 hrs. (half brightness).

So, what changes have you made as your display's image has started to degrade? Can you folks post your re-calibration settings with sets that have 12,000+ hours? I lost my DVE DVD, so looking for setting recommendations.

Thanks for your inputs!!! And Happy Holidays!!!

The only thing you can really do is recalibrate it. I have at least as many hours as you on my 50PX60U and it can STILL run rings around the lousy Sony LCD with LED backlight that was a "discounted" replacement for the defective 60A2020 SXRD units that Sony sold.:(

Also, it's been said before, but, I'll say it again, you CAN'T use someone else's settings and expect to get proper results.:rolleyes: No two units are identical. Other than actual color calibration settings, you can easily adjust everything else with one of the MANY calibration discs out there. There is even a free one that's discussed in detail on this website. So if you don't already have one, I would suggest downloading the free one (it's a burnable ISO file) that's available. There were two versions, one for an HD-DVD player and one for a Blu-ray player.:) Either one can be burned onto a regular DVD.

HAVE A HAPPY NEW YEAR

I've had the TH-42PX60U for about 5 years. I'm still very impressed with the PQ of this set but had my first little scare this morning.

This is a bedroom TV and it's used morning/evening and a bit on the weekends. I've always noticed a bit of image retention but it always goes away after a minute or so. I've been careful to watch everything full screen. It gets used a lot to catch up on the morning/evening news. Therein lies the problem. Our only local news station in HD is WHIO. And they ALWAYS have their stupid crawl at the bottom of the screen. After watching over an hour of regular programming (crime dramas, etc.) last night, I noticed a ghost image from WHIO's crawl graphic was still visible. Needless to say, my heart sunk.

This morning I got out the old break-in DVD with all the colored slides and ran it for a couple hours. The image persistence finally seemed to disappear. I don't know if I'll be watching the same news station consistently from now on.

I've had the TH-42PX60U for about 5 years. I'm still very impressed with the PQ of this set but had my first little scare this morning.

This is a bedroom TV and it's used morning/evening and a bit on the weekends. I've always noticed a bit of image retention but it always goes away after a minute or so. I've been careful to watch everything full screen. It gets used a lot to catch up on the morning/evening news. Therein lies the problem. Our only local news station in HD is WHIO. And they ALWAYS have their stupid crawl at the bottom of the screen. After watching over an hour of regular programming (crime dramas, etc.) last night, I noticed a ghost image from WHIO's crawl graphic was still visible. Needless to say, my heart sunk.

This morning I got out the old break-in DVD with all the colored slides and ran it for a couple hours. The image persistence finally seemed to disappear. I don't know if I'll be watching the same news station consistently from now on.

We've had our TH-42PX600U for 5 years, and the image retention I see after watching 4:3 material last only a few minutes. I've never noticed it w/ a crawl or any other static image.

Doug

Hi group,

I realize that this thread is VERY old with 234 pages and has gone dead since May, so I wanted to try to revive it and ask a question.

I've got a TH-50PX60U that is starting to get some age on it with 12,000 hrs. of operation and have noticed that the image has definitely degraded since the initial "wow" calibration that I started with 5-6 years ago. This deradation is certainly to be expected, as I understand it the brightness and other changes are going to occur as the set approaches 60,000 hrs. (half brightness).

So, what changes have you made as your display's image has started to degrade? Can you folks post your re-calibration settings with sets that have 12,000+ hours? I lost my DVE DVD, so looking for setting recommendations.

Thanks for your inputs!!! And Happy Holidays!!!

Actually, I think he was asking what picture settings you guys are using/changed since the beginning.

I actually have the SAME TV with the same hours. I use a "slightly" modified version of the accepted settings for the time.

I have increased my brightness a notch. I'll post them later. TV is not in front of me, but will be on Wednesday when the 65VT30 goes back. (The VT30 is 3D, no not that 3D, I mean --- Dim, Dark, and Dingy)

I have IR on the 60U from TiVo's white "smile" (SDUI), FNC logo has left a "blur/shadow", also a "blur/shadow" from the green bar. But you can only see them with white or gray screens.

Overall, I've been happy with the 60U. Just not BIG enough anymore and blacks are terrible(always were). No NOT black "level". I'm talking everything black is just......straight black, no definition between blacks. The VT30 was vastly superior in this respect. After having a 65inch for a few months I could EASILY go 80. It's easier to go bigger than you might think.

Actually, I think he was asking what picture settings you guys are using/changed since the beginning.

I actually have the SAME TV with the same hours. I use a "slightly" modified version of the accepted settings for the time.

I have increased my brightness a notch. I'll post them later. TV is not in front of me, but will be on Wednesday when the 65VT30 goes back. (The VT30 is 3D, no not that 3D, I mean --- Dim, Dark, and Dingy)

I have IR on the 60U from TiVo's white "smile" (SDUI), FNC logo has left a "blur/shadow", also a "blur/shadow" from the green bar. But you can only see them with white or gray screens.

Overall, I've been happy with the 60U. Just not BIG enough anymore and blacks are terrible(always were). No NOT black "level". I'm talking everything black is just......straight black, no definition between blacks. The VT30 was vastly superior in this respect. After having a 65inch for a few months I could EASILY go 80. It's easier to go bigger than you might think.

what ia wrong with your VT30, and who did you buy it from -- that would allow a return after a few months....

The only thing you can really do is recalibrate it. I have at least as many hours as you on my 50PX60U and it can STILL run rings around the lousy Sony LCD with LED backlight that was a "discounted" replacement for the defective 60A2020 SXRD units that Sony sold.:(

Also, it's been said before, but, I'll say it again, you CAN'T use someone else's settings and expect to get proper results.:rolleyes: No two units are identical. Other than actual color calibration settings, you can easily adjust everything else with one of the MANY calibration discs out there. There is even a free one that's discussed in detail on this website. So if you don't already have one, I would suggest downloading the free one (it's a burnable ISO file) that's available. There were two versions, one for an HD-DVD player and one for a Blu-ray player.:) Either one can be burned onto a regular DVD.

HAVE A HAPPY NEW YEAR

Thanks, Techman, I downloaded and burned it and it worked like a charm through my PS3 player. I can't believe how much the settings have degraded in 12,000 hrs. My white level was at +22---now I have to max it out at +30 to get the best white levels. Doesn't sound too good---I know that this is a CERTAIN sign that the display is approaching it's 50% reduction in light levels--the indication that the set is worn through it's useful life. I KNOW that the original specs call for 50-60,000 hrs. before 1/2 brightness is gone---hmmm, hate to see this because this set BLOWS THE DOORS off my other HD set (Magnajunk).

Is there a thread or link anywhere for a burnable .iso file that will play on a Samsung standard progressive scan upscaling DVD player? I need to try to recalibrate the Magnajunk and this disc won't play on the Samsung which is connected to set

THANKS for your help!!

Dear all,

I have bought an old 37 inch PX60E. I only have 2 questions. The fans seems rather loud. Does any body if it would help to replace them. Can they be deactivated, would this give problems?

Secondly, I have found firmware v1.25. Could I put this in my TV and would it solve any problems.

Thanks for the reply.

Regards,

Nino

Dear all,

I have bought an old 37 inch PX60E. I only have 2 questions. The fans seems rather loud. Does any body if it would help to replace them. Can they be deactivated, would this give problems?

Secondly, I have found firmware v1.25. Could I put this in my TV and would it solve any problems.

Thanks for the reply.

Regards,

Nino

I have a 42PX60U I bought new, can't remember when any more. Fans make no discernible noise. It's in an antique wardrobe and has plenty of room to breathe. If your set doesn't have lots of room around it, heat could be building up causing the fans to run hard. A bad fan will make a squealing or vibrating sound. From my experience with computer fans that make more noise than they used to, I first make sure they are clean. Next, I try lubricating them. I've done this several times with non-ball bearing computer fans using light lithium grease. Take the fan out and pull the fan away from the motor. The ones I've fixed have been permanent magnet motors and they use the magnets to keep the fan in place, so the fan pulls off easy. If you can't lube them, just get new ball bearing ones.

I have a 42PX60U I bought new, can't remember when any more. Fans make no discernible noise. It's in an antique wardrobe and has plenty of room to breathe. If your set doesn't have lots of room around it, heat could be building up causing the fans to run hard. A bad fan will make a squealing or vibrating sound. From my experience with computer fans that make more noise than they used to, I first make sure they are clean. Next, I try lubricating them. I've done this several times with non-ball bearing computer fans using light lithium grease. Take the fan out and pull the fan away from the motor. The ones I've fixed have been permanent magnet motors and they use the magnets to keep the fan in place, so the fan pulls off easy. If you can't lube them, just get new ball bearing ones.

My 42PX600U makes no discernible noise either. I've also read that setting the PQ properly helps w/ noise. If you have it set on Vivid, it apparently creates more heat and thus the fan is louder. Not sure if this is correct, but it's worth checking.

Doug

must add a comment on my 42PX600U.....bought at Costco just before they eliminated the lifetime return policy........the 600U is one fantastic panel, great picture and great audio. I also have a 50GT30, and I actually like the 600U more than the GT30. the GT30 has a few pluses - 1080, 3d, deeper blacks - but for basic viewing and audio, can't beat the 600U!

Ken

I bought my 42px60u in the Spring of 2006 and it has never exhibited fan noise that I could here more than a few inches away. It has plenty of open air around it and I vacuum the fans through the vents occasionally . It's usually set in a tweaked Cinema picture mode. It's still a great display after all these years, it's not my main TV anymore but it still gets used a few hours almost every day.

So my TV is 5+ years old now and my receiver is 10+ years old, and as a result I'm constantly dancing the not enough HDMI inputs shuffle. Does anyone know what our TVs output for audio from the optical out when the source is HDMI, if anything? I would test, but it is much more fun to figure these things out at work instead of actually working.

So my TV is 5+ years old now and my receiver is 10+ years old, and as a result I'm constantly dancing the not enough HDMI inputs shuffle. Does anyone know what our TVs output for audio from the optical out when the source is HDMI, if anything? I would test, but it is much more fun to figure these things out at work instead of actually working.

2.0 from external sources. It will pass 5.1 if the source is one of its internal tuners (OTA or QAM). This is true of 99.8% of TVs available today.