Firmware 2.1?

[llep64]

When guys, when?!!!, Has anybody heard anything on this, the DVI/HDMI problem is driving me crazy!!

[DigitalOBX]

I am still waiting for my 2.0 Disc :(

[rover2002]

Within 10 days i hope :)

[vancouver]

I am still waiting for my 2.0 Disc :(
whay wait for the disc? Dont you have the internet?

[BTBuck1]

im kinda anxious too, my HD-A1 skips about every movie now.

I don't know if I should send it in for repair, wait for firmware or return it.

[bfdtv]

Expect a firmware update in November.

[raaj]

Could you people making a prediction on the ETA of the update please post your source for the information?

Thanks !

[rover2002]

Could you people making a prediction on the ETA of the update please post your source for the information?

Thanks !
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8554832&&#post8554832
Tosh rep.

[raaj]

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8554832&&#post8554832
Tosh rep.

Missed that. Thanks.

[DigitalOBX]

whay wait for the disc? Dont you have the internet?
I do not have a long enough Cat6 line to reach the HDA1 and it is a pain in the butt to move the Tosh. The last 2 FW discs were promptly shipped.....I can wait a few more days......

[Forceflow]

download the .iso and burn it. That's what I did.

[Forceflow]

im kinda anxious too, my HD-A1 skips about every movie now.

I don't know if I should send it in for repair, wait for firmware or return it.


Return it (exchange) I guess, mine has never given me any problems. Why tolerate a clearly problematic unit? Never one skip, never one hiccup. I avoid HDMI like the plague, so that may explain why I don't have problems (analog is always consistent and it outperforms HDMI when consistentcy is factored in).

[DigitalOBX]

download the .iso and burn it. That's what I did.
Might have to if I do not get it this week.....Training Day is awaiting LOL

[Skyeclad]

Return it (exchange) I guess, mine has never given me any problems. Why tolerate a clearly problematic unit? Never one skip, never one hiccup. I avoid HDMI like the plague, so that may explain why I don't have problems (analog is always consistent and it outperforms HDMI when consistentcy is factored in).

Interesting, I've been wondering if the skipping/lip synch problem is HDMI related, audio related or disc related. The fact that you had no problems with your component connection, makes me wonder if it isn't HDMI. Has anyone done a survey as to what connections/settings that this problem occurs in? Barring a disc manufacturing problem, we should be able to come to a concensus on what might be causing this skip issue.

[deez]

Return it (exchange) I guess, mine has never given me any problems. Why tolerate a clearly problematic unit? Never one skip, never one hiccup. I avoid HDMI like the plague, so that may explain why I don't have problems (analog is always consistent and it outperforms HDMI when consistentcy is factored in).


Why oh why would you do this????!!!!

[Forceflow]

Why oh why would you do this????!!!!

use analog? or return the player? I'm not gonna return it, I advise Brian to exchange it as it appears to give him grief.

As far as analog, because I think it is better and I've seen no conclusive evidence that HDMI does give a better picture or produce clearer sound. the A/D conversion must happen, whether at the TV or in the receiver. With the A1 you can have the player handle both and trust me, it does a superior job unless you have very high end equipment.

[deez]

Have you ran avia or dve to prove this or are you going by eye??

Also, what if your player has hdmi issues.......and you dont find out till it is too late....As far as the A/D conversion.....i always thought that the player did that with hdmi/dvi..........?

[Forceflow]

Have you ran avia or dve to prove this or are you going by eye??

Also, what if your player has hdmi issues.......and you dont find out till it is too late....As far as the A/D conversion.....i always thought that the player did that with hdmi/dvi..........?

you asking me? you don't seem to refer or reference anything...

[Forceflow]

As far as the A/D conversion.....i always thought that the player did that with hdmi/dvi..........?

sorry, I mean D/A conversion and that changes depending on whether display decode the signal or whether you rely on the player. Given that my display is a CRT, I only have component. Now I did work at Tweeter when this player was released and I did A/B comparisons on 2 TVs using HDMI/component (audioquest component and HDMI). HDMI looked no different and had no more or less artifacting. It did create HDMI handshake issues. Component looked the same, even when walking up close to the set. I know professional reviews with better testing equipment have had mixed reviews of HDMI as well.

I used a Sony 42A10 (3LCD RPTV) and a Sony SXRD RPTV(50XBR1) in my informal test. I do own a copy of DVE and Avia and used those with test patterns to check if all 480 lines of resolution were being resolved, both upconverted and at 480p. HDMI is a useful connection, when its not possessed by the devil (single cable replacing my 9 RCAs is nifty but not worth the headaches). With HDMI your voltage from each component has to match, and my experience with a variety of devices shows that this often gets a flutter.

BTW, I still get upconversion over analog and it looks similarly fantastic.

[deez]

sorry, I mean D/A conversion and that changes depending on whether display decode the signal or whether you rely on the player. Given that my display is a CRT, I only have component. Now I did work at Tweeter when this player was released and I did A/B comparisons on 2 TVs using HDMI/component (audioquest component and HDMI). HDMI looked no different and had no more or less artifacting. It did create HDMI handshake issues. Component looked the same, even when walking up close to the set. I know professional reviews with better testing equipment have had mixed reviews of HDMI as well.

I used a Sony 42A10 (3LCD RPTV) and a Sony SXRD RPTV(50XBR1) in my informal test. I do own a copy of DVE and Avia and used those with test patterns to check if all 480 lines of resolution were being resolved, both upconverted and at 480p. HDMI is a useful connection, when its not possessed by the devil (single cable replacing my 9 RCAs is nifty but not worth the headaches). With HDMI your voltage from each component has to match, and my experience with a variety of devices shows that this often gets a flutter.

BTW, I still get upconversion over analog and it looks similarly fantastic.


If your happy with your results then really that is all that matters.
I am just saying that more bandwidth is always better and less conversions is always better :)

Using a RPTV crt will always have the A/D conversion....my setup is a panny plasma 50px60u-hdmi-pioneer 81tx-hd a1......my set as far as i know is only scaling it to fit everything else is being done inside the player.....i have seen component hdtv[comcast] and hdmi hdtv [comcast] and i can say there is a noticable difference in PQ...as far as HD DVD, i only have used hdmi......

What i will agree with you on is the handshake bs which is total bs also so is the different hdmi versions.....it should come with a chip for firware upgrades..... :confused:

[Forceflow]

I am just saying that more bandwidth is always better and less conversions is always better :)

If your happy with your results then really that is all that matters.

Not necessarily going down like you think. Just so you don't think I'm pulling this outta my rear, this is from bluejeanscable, a sponsor on here. Their not "experts" but this article does sum up what is generally known.

The argument often made for the DVI or HDMI signal formats is the "pure digital" argument--that by taking a digital recording, such as a DVD or a digital satellite signal, and rendering it straight into digital form as a DVI or HDMI signal, and then delivering that digital signal straight to the display, there is a sort of a perfect no-loss-and-no-alteration-of-information signal chain. If the display itself is a native digital display (e.g. an LCD or Plasma display), the argument goes, the signal never has to undergo digital-to-analog conversion and therefore is less altered along the way.

That might be true, were it not for the fact that digital signals are encoded in different ways and have to be converted, and that these signals have to be scaled and processed to be displayed. Consequently, there are always conversions going on, and these conversions aren't always easy going. "Digital to digital" conversion is no more a guarantee of signal quality than "digital to analog," and in practice may be substantially worse. Whether it's better or worse will depend upon the circuitry involved--and that is something which isn't usually practical to figure out. As a general rule, with consumer equipment, one simply doesn't know how signals are processed, and one doesn't know how that processing varies by input. Analog and digital inputs must either be scaled through separate circuits, or one must be converted to the other to use the same scaler. How is that done? In general, you won't find an answer to that anywhere in your instruction manual, and even if you did, it'd be hard to judge which is the better scaler without viewing the actual video output. It's fair to say, in general, that even in very high-end consumer gear, the quality of circuits for signal processing and scaling is quite variable.

http://www.bluejeanscable.com/articles/dvihdmicomponent.htm

So its really your final statement that is closer to the mark. Whatever works for you, whatever works for me. I'm just glad that we can agree that HDMI does have one negative, handshakes. Analog definitely has its share of negatives too, but is tried and tested.

HDMI could be great when some rigid standards and impedence control....

Anyways, the point of this was to encourage people to try analog and perhaps BTB issues and other HDMI related problems won't be harped on. Then again, if HDMI is your only route, you're basically in my boat ('cept the other way around).

[TheCrackedJack]

use analog? or return the player? I'm not gonna return it, I advise Brian to exchange it as it appears to give him grief.

As far as analog, because I think it is better and I've seen no conclusive evidence that HDMI does give a better picture or produce clearer sound. the A/D conversion must happen, whether at the TV or in the receiver. With the A1 you can have the player handle both and trust me, it does a superior job unless you have very high end equipment.
I'm with you man, I had problems with HDMI. Now that I'm using component, it's smooth sailing. Even the disc that looked like they had a blemish played perfectly.

[joerod]

I think it is funny that 2.1 is near its release and many owners still have not even been sent the 2.0 disc. Does that indicate then number of HD DVD players now purchased? Are there that many owners sending in the request updates card? I was told the 2.0 disc was on backorder for awhile which is why I just received mine last week... :eek:

[Big J]

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8554832&&#post8554832
Tosh rep.
If I understand that post correctly, those of us who just got the discs should have gotten 2.1. I sure didn't, did anyone?
J

[NoUserName22]

...About 4 weeks after I requested it. I went ahead and downloaded the update via ethernet cable. It took like 9 times before it finally worked. It also took about an hour and I have fast download capability.

Does anyone know what specific issues the 2.1 update is supposed to address or what new features it will provide?

[thebland]

WHat exactly is the issue with 2.0?

[tormond]

WHat exactly is the issue with 2.0?


Biggest problem I have foudnd is that it seems to empty my wallet. Once I heard TrueHD 5.1 I had to go buy every movie that had it on it. Is this fixable by firmware? Maybe Toshiba could get some pointers from Sony's authoring dept on how to reverse this.

Seriously tho I haven't had any problems with 2.0. Didn't have any on 1.4 either.

[Big J]

WHat exactly is the issue with 2.0?
Mostly, its the DVI issues.
J

[Alex solomon]

WHat exactly is the issue with 2.0?
For me it is the HDMI to DVI BTB issue. I hope they will address this in the next firmware update.

[Ezra]

WHat exactly is the issue with 2.0?

HDMI > DVI BTB problems and it killed HDCP handshaking on my BenQ 8700.

[JimMac]

If I understand that post correctly, those of us who just got the discs should have gotten 2.1. I sure didn't, did anyone?
J

My disk is labeled 2.001 I think, or something like that - not at home, since I already downloaded about 4 weeks ago, I didn't bother trying it.

[thebland]

Can those with 2.0 reload 1.4 if they have the disc?

[ss9001]

Since I use HDMI-DVI, I have not installed 2.0 yet. Will wait until 2.1 comes out and read about its effects here before updating :)

And I got the 2.0 disc last week.

thebland,
From what folks have posted here, once you update to 2.0, you can't go back. I've read speculation that 2.0 updates firmware on the disc drive itself and not reversible.

ss9001

[Forceflow]

Can those with 2.0 reload 1.4 if they have the disc?

No. From what people have reported, once you go 2.0 you can't go back. I could be wrong, but this is what people who installed the leaked version found.

I just got my 2.0 disc from Toshiba today. It is part # HDVD2001 and is definitely 2.0 and not 2.1. It has instructions that specifically says 2.0 (in CD pouch).

[HD_or_Bust]

HDMI > DVI BTB problems and it killed HDCP handshaking on my BenQ 8700.

Yup...That's the ONLY issue I seem to be having. HDMI ERROR 1 when using Benq8700+ over DVI. I found a reasonably reliable work-around to continue using HDMI but I'd rather just be able to hit play and go...

Hopefully some futur update will magically make this go away. Til then...and regardless...Gawd do I love my HD-DVD experience!

[Big J]

My disk is labeled 2.001 I think, or something like that - not at home, since I already downloaded about 4 weeks ago, I didn't bother trying it.
That's the 2.0 disc.
J

[foulmouthedleon]

I got my disc from Toshiba yesterday and it's the 2.0 version. I had (and still have) a problem with Fast...Furious: Tokyo Drift in the opening sequence. Haven't tried Fear and Loathing but I will.

[web]

No. From what people have reported, once you go 2.0 you can't go back. I could be wrong, but this is what people who installed the leaked version found.
You can revert to an earlier version after installing 2.0, but HD DVDs will not play using the reverted version. SD DVDs will play using the reverted version. After reinstalling 2.0, HD DVDs will play.

web

[egcarter]

I tried going back to 1.4 with the firmware disc and it doesn't work. I get a VUP error.

Eric

[Mr. Cinema]

I got my disc from Toshiba yesterday and it's the 2.0 version. I had (and still have) a problem with Fast...Furious: Tokyo Drift in the opening sequence. Haven't tried Fear and Loathing but I will.
I myself had a problem with FF3. My image froze at the 55 minute mark. Had to unplug the unit as it froze up everything. I replayed the same scene and everything was fine. I'm on 2.0. I've also read on other boards about similar problems. Sounds like there's some bad discs out there. This is the first 30/9 Combo, I think, I wonder if that's the reason...

[ndtriathlete]

Guys - I received the 2.0 disc that I ordered about 10 days ago. Yesterday, I got another disc from Toshiba simply labeled "Update Disc." Is this 2.0, 2.1, or something else entirely? I don't want to put it in until I know what it is.

Thanks for your help!

[JOHNnDENVER]

I tried going back to 1.4 with the firmware disc and it doesn't work. I get a VUP error.

Eric


Pretty sure you have to go back to 1.2 first then upgrade to 1.4 to get 1.4 back on it.

[quickfire]

Guys - I received the 2.0 disc that I ordered about 10 days ago. Yesterday, I got another disc from Toshiba simply labeled "Update Disc." Is this 2.0, 2.1, or something else entirely? I don't want to put it in until I know what it is.

Thanks for your help!

:confused: Does it look like the 2.0 disc or is it totally different???

I would be afraid to put it into my player!!!

Maybe its a 2.1 disc??:).....But that seems highly unlikely!

[Sam S]

Guys - I received the 2.0 disc that I ordered about 10 days ago. Yesterday, I got another disc from Toshiba simply labeled "Update Disc." Is this 2.0, 2.1, or something else entirely? I don't want to put it in until I know what it is.

Thanks for your help!

I say put it in! :)

[ndtriathlete]

:confused: Does it look like the 2.0 disc or is it totally different???

I would be afraid to put it into my player!!!

Maybe its a 2.1 disc??:).....But that seems highly unlikely!

The Firmware 2.0 disc came with an instruction sheet that clearly said that it was Firmware 2.0.

This one didn't have an instruction sheet on how to update using the disc, but it does say that it is Toshiba Part Number: LAV1.

[deez]

The Firmware 2.0 disc came with an instruction sheet that clearly said that it was Firmware 2.0.

This one didn't have an instruction sheet on how to update using the disc, but it does say that it is Toshiba Part Number: LAV1.


LOL if you put it in and it takes you to america online and offers you there new broadband let us know...


Seriously, can you send it to me as a file on msn messinger ill try it in my player......pm me

[keltontrey]

I just ordered a new HD-AX1 will it still need the updated firmware? Also what does the firmware update do? As you can tell I am alittle confused. :confused:

[quickfire]

I just ordered a new HD-AX1 will it still need the updated firmware? Also what does the firmware update do? As you can tell I am alittle confused. :confused:

You'll most likely have to upgrade to the 2.0 FW!!!I have not heard of anyone that has received the HDA1,HDXA1 or the HDD1 that has the 2.0FW already installed!......

[GATER]

Also what does the firmware update do?

It enables or fixes the 720p video problem that was occurring in the tosh. Also, it enables Dolby TrueHD 5.1 on discs that have it through the receivers analog or hdmi inputs.

[Mac11700]

My disc I got yesterday is labled HD-A1/HD-XA1/HD-D1 Update Disc...part# HDVD2001The instruction sheet says Firmware Update Version:2.0......

What is the HD-D1...is this their PC drive that's out?

Mac

[ChrisPC]

The HD-D1 is an all-black version of the HD-A1 made for Wal-Mart.

[GizmoDVD]

Hopefully it will fi the stupid problem of having the audio pop everytime I insert a disc. It loads a disc, 'turns off', turns on, pops, ugh.

[Forceflow]

We will just have to wait for 2.1 to be officially announced. until then we can all enjoy 2.0 to the max. I feel sorry for those with 2.0 BTB issues, but its still HD DVD and you can use component to achieve better pq. I still have my fingers crossed for DVD-A support....like it'll really happen though.....

[GizmoDVD]

The only disc I have had that has skipped as been Happy Gilmore (The first one I played, go figure). Ever since its been perfect.

[rover2002]

No news on 2.1?

[GmanAVS]

No news on 2.1?
nope, the Toshiba guys were fairly tight lipped at last night's AVS meet

[DigitalfreakNYC]

not only were they tight lipped, they genuinely didn't seem to know anything about it.

[rover2002]

They were just there for the free food! how was the food BTW?

[P. Anthony]

I originally posted about the upcoming 2.1 update (according to what the Toshiba rep told me on the phone). However, I didn't receive the 2.1, but the 2.0 upgrade disc instead, so I don't know if they decided to hold back the next upgrade or what? So far, the upgrade has been an approvement for me, I'm getting less skips (only a few flutters), and the TrueHD 5.1 sound is fantastic! :)

I'm hoping that the next upgrade will stop the skips once and for all, and get DTS-HD. ;)

[rover2002]

I originally posted about the upcoming 2.1 update (according to what the Toshiba rep told me on the phone). However, I didn't receive the 2.1, but the 2.0 upgrade disc instead, so I don't know if they decided to hold back the next upgrade or what? So far, the upgrade has been an approvement for me, I'm getting less skips (only a few flutters), and the TrueHD 5.1 sound is fantastic! :)

I'm hoping that the next upgrade will stop the skips once and for all, and get DTS-HD. ;)
Are you also cleaning discs before viewing?

[P. Anthony]

I myself had a problem with FF3. My image froze at the 55 minute mark. Had to unplug the unit as it froze up everything. I replayed the same scene and everything was fine. I'm on 2.0. I've also read on other boards about similar problems. Sounds like there's some bad discs out there. This is the first 30/9 Combo, I think, I wonder if that's the reason...

I had this similar problem with POTO (after pausing the disc momentarily) after the 2.0 upgrade, but my player wouldn't play the disc any further, so it locked up! So, I finally decided to unplug the Toshiba player for 2 days, it seemed to have solved the problem.

[P. Anthony]

Are you also cleaning discs before viewing?

Yes, on some of the discs (I have the CleanDr. Disc Cleaner). I made sure that my player was set on PCM/PCM, and unplugging my player for 2 days...seemed to have stopped the skipping, I got a few flutters from not cleaning the disc.

[billymac]

anybody who's hoping for a 2.X firmware revision, please please please call Toshiba support and start a file. (especially those experiencing BTB and Black Crush issues ;) )the more people that do this, the more likely and hopefully sooner it will get done.

the phone number for customer support is: 800-631-3811

[David Susilo]

anybody have the Canadian number? I've lost mine.

[bfdtv]

Toshiba hasn't stopped development on the A1 firmware, they just put more focus on getting the A2 out.

The codebases for the A1 and A2 firmwares are very similar, so improvements they are working on for the A2 should also be made available to A1 users.

[steviec]

Apparently with the 2.0 firmware the player is now outputing 4:22 color space and not changing it to RGB before going to a display as it should.
This will result in no blacker than black.
If i change the 4:22 to RGB output on my VP50 scaler the blacker than black is there.
so there needs to be fix in the new firmware to allow the RGB output from the player to the display to avoid black and white crush.

[nocski]

I did my version 2.0 upgrade last Oct 23 (from version 1.4) after months of waiting for Toshiba to send me the original disc.

Took me all of 9 minutes to do the upgrade (the one page instruction sheet said it would take 15 minutes to load).

Happy to report that my HDA1 continues to perform without a glitch!

I did not notice any improvement in loading speed from turn on to play. But I definitely noticed a slight improvement in picture sharpness and vividness in color. As far as Dolby True HD sound is concerned, it is nothing short of spectacular!

I will try the 720p resolution tonight to see if there are improvements also. My display device is 720p native resolution.

[marlai]

I did my version 2.0 upgrade last Oct 23 (from version 1.4) after months of waiting for Toshiba to send me the original disc.

Took me all of 9 minutes to do the upgrade (the one page instruction sheet said it would take 15 minutes to load).

Happy to report that my HDA1 continues to perform without a glitch!

I did not notice any improvement in loading speed from turn on to play. But I definitely noticed a slight improvement in picture sharpness and vividness in color. As far as Dolby True HD sound is concerned, it is nothing short of spectacular!

I will try the 720p resolution tonight to see if there are improvements also. My display device is 720p native resolution.same here nocs, my hd-a1 works flawlessly....someone here (thanks david susilo!!) was very kind and sent me the FW 2.0 cd....how did you get yours?

[rover2002]

anybody who's hoping for a 2.X firmware revision, please please please call Toshiba support and start a file. (especially those experiencing BTB and Black Crush issues ;) )the more people that do this, the more likely and hopefully sooner it will get done.

the phone number for customer support is: 800-631-3811
When was the last time you called?

[bucky63]

I will try the 720p resolution tonight to see if there are improvements also. My display device is 720p native resolution.

I still had problems with 720p with lost resolution so I'm sticking with outputting 1080i to my AE900U projector.

[rover2002]

Toshiba hasn't stopped development on the A1 firmware, they just put more focus on getting the A2 out.
The codebases for the A1 and A2 firmwares are very similar, so improvements they are working on for the A2 should also be made available to A1 users.
In other words, thanks for buying Toshiba, it might be buggy but we have moved on, so should you?

[nocski]

I still had problems with 720p with lost resolution so I'm sticking with outputting 1080i to my AE900U projector.

Same here. 1080i is also still a little better than 720p after my 2.0 firmware upgrade. :(

[Jon Spackman]

In other words, thanks for buying Toshiba, it might be buggy but we have moved on, so should you?


Please don't say stuff like this. It is not true. Toshiba appreciates early adopters and this kind of stuff simply hurts their feelings. Put yourself in their shoes, would you want to continue to work on new firmware for the A1 with guys like you bashing them? Sure not good for morale.

[billymac]

When was the last time you called?

errr...the day i posted that. what's up? lame posts.

[MrBonanza]

HDMI > DVI BTB problems and it killed HDCP handshaking on my BenQ 8700.
I too am waiting for a fix that allows me to use my BenQ 8700+. For now, I am using an Oppo 971 with the BenQ 8700+. My HD1 is now hooked up with a 50" RP Toshiba. Funny thing is this TV has a DVI connection and it works just fine.

Great HD picture, just nowhere near as good (and as large) as what you get on the BenQ.

[umr]

Based on what I am seeing in the field with these players the black level problem with 2.0 is not only effecting DVI inputs. It appears to me it is an issue if the display requests RGB instead of YCbCr. Some displays are just fine while others have lower black levels than they should. For most this can be corrected by altering the brightness setting.

[PooperScooper]

How can altering brightness fully correct the PC RGB video? You can elevate the black level but what does that do to black levels at the top (near white, above 240)? Unless the display accepts PC RGB, I don't see how you can get it near correct. If you can DVI input, you're better off switching over to component.

larry

[umr]

How can altering brightness fully correct the PC RGB video? You can elevate the black level but what does that do to black levels at the top (near white, above 240)? Unless the display accepts PC RGB, I don't see how you can get it near correct. If you can DVI input, you're better off switching over to component.

larry

As you say it depends on the display, but from what I have seen most can handle the level shift. I can say the error is not PC levels, but the black is lower than the video standard. However, I can see all of the blacker than black information on Avia Pro with my Samsung display which would not be possible if it was outputting PC levels. I also see no above white clipping on Avia Pro. Component may be better or worse it will depend on the display.

[PooperScooper]

Interesting. With my DVI input I get no BTB or WTW, the same as many others here. Component works fine for me so I'm happy.

larry

[leesweet]

I've been loading all the updates on my XA1, and have had it with the HDMI issues. I've finally gone to component after 2.0 didn't fix much and does seem to have made HDMI worse.

I've never seen a good explanation why this player can't do what my HD Tivo HR10 does perfectly (or am I crazy?). Why is the HDMI issue so picky for this machine?

It's connected directly to a Sammie HLN DLP, but the Tivos and an older Vinc DVD never had any problems at all (even through an HDMI switch, where the XA1 hates the switch). Bought a new switch, but even directly connected, I get several HDMI errors every time even on SD DVDs and hitting Play usually restarts the DVD. Not usable.

Not what I expected from this product at all, especially after several firmware upgrades.

So, is the fix ever coming or are they just fiddling with the code at this point (especially with a new model out...)?

[Kevin. W]

I've been loading all the updates on my XA1, and have had it with the HDMI issues. I've finally gone to component after 2.0 didn't fix much and does seem to have made HDMI worse.

I've never seen a good explanation why this player can't do what my HD Tivo HR10 does perfectly (or am I crazy?). Why is the HDMI issue so picky for this machine?

It's connected directly to a Sammie HLN DLP, but the Tivos and an older Vinc DVD never had any problems at all (even through an HDMI switch, where the XA1 hates the switch). Bought a new switch, but even directly connected, I get several HDMI errors every time even on SD DVDs and hitting Play usually restarts the DVD. Not usable.

Not what I expected from this product at all, especially after several firmware upgrades.

So, is the fix ever coming or are they just fiddling with the code at this point (especially with a new model out...)?

Just make sure you turning everything else on before you turn on the XA1. I run my A1 through my Denon 4806(via HDMI) and have no issues with video switching.

[homerx]

So far with 2.0 I've had no probloms 4 movies so far. In fact HDMI did not work at before but now it works perfectly. It cuts out for a second when loading the disc but is fine after that. King kong worked perfectly the first time and the 2nd, even when messing with the u control and sound it still worked great. Very happy with the 2.0 update. I've read when you get probloms to just to a hard reboot (holding down the pwr, or unpluging). It will work fine
ill be picking up superman returns on tusday so hopfully that plays well.


I hope they continue to make patchs until it works all the time with out a hitch, although like said so far so good even the old software I had only 2 probloms 1 in pitch black the picture studerred a little as if dirty. And in charle the audio went of track. But a pause then play fixed it for the rest of the movie.

[motoman]

Interesting. With my DVI input I get no BTB or WTW, the same as many others here. Component works fine for me so I'm happy.

larry

Same here for me on a Pioneer Elite 630HD using HDMI-DVI. This is my biggest issue at this time. No real skips,burps or freeze ups with 2.0. I just want that same wonderful picture back and my upconverting player over HDMI.

[leesweet]

Just make sure you turning everything else on before you turn on the XA1. I run my A1 through my Denon 4806(via HDMI) and have no issues with video switching.
Huh? I'm talking while a DVD is playing. It's always been this way, on all firmware revs. Things are going fine, and zap, HDMI Error. With the more recent revs, Play does restart the DVD, but going to the menu to reset audio settings and then finding the scene you want is a definite pain.

I still see no reason why *this* device has problems when my others have never had any HDCP errors.

[joerod]

I think Toshiba has done a lot with their players since release time. How many firmware versions have been released? That is good service...

[FoolintheRain]

Any ideas on possibly adding the DTS-HD decoding now that it was finalized a few months ago by DTS? You know DTS Encore, DTS HD-Master Audio, and the third one that is better than Encore, but not quite Master Audio.

[dtsfanoh]

It is reasonable to see FW 2.1 this year (2006) ??

[Kevin. W]

Huh? I'm talking while a DVD is playing. It's always been this way, on all firmware revs. Things are going fine, and zap, HDMI Error. With the more recent revs, Play does restart the DVD, but going to the menu to reset audio settings and then finding the scene you want is a definite pain.

I still see no reason why *this* device has problems when my others have never had any HDCP errors.


Possible defective HDMI cable, have you tried a different one? How about a different HDMI slot on the tv if it has more than one. Sounds like the Toshiba and Sammy are loosing the handshake. With all the HD movies I've watched I've never had this issue during playback.

[venture4]

I used to get a black screen on my sony bravia, I would be watching a movie then all of a sudden a black screen (loss of signal) would appear for a couple of seconds. As the sony is a 720 display I matched it up on the A1 to 720p instead of 1080, it now plays without any problems and the picture actually looks better with the resolution from the A1 matched up with the TV.

[rwestley]

Kevin W. I had hdcp handshake problems with my unit and I discovered that the cables were coming loose from the internal connectors on both the HD1 and the source my Panny AE900. I bough the Monoprice "Port Savers" and they solved my problem for a very low cost. They are short 8" extensions that make for a snug fit on the cables and the internal connections of your equipment and they put less weight on the internal connectors which may help. I have not had one problem since I started using them.

[wyliec2]

FWIW - I have a 30' Cobalt HDMI cable running directly from my HD-A1 to Panny AE900. In 7 months (80 movies) I've never had a HDMI error. Most times I turn the projector on last (while the A1 is loading the DVD).

[leesweet]

Possible defective HDMI cable, have you tried a different one? How about a different HDMI slot on the tv if it has more than one. Sounds like the Toshiba and Sammy are loosing the handshake. With all the HD movies I've watched I've never had this issue during playback.Could be cable, since it's only used for this (rest is through switchbox).... and it's a HDMI-->DVI cable. Another works fine from the switch box..

I'll try another cable, good idea! I assume no one else is eeeing these issues?!

[TWISTED BULLET]

Wait? Is there an update coming out?

[BJM]

They better come out with an update soon. Updating to 2.0 basically rendered my HD-A1 to a total hunk of crap....black crush to DVI (I'm forced to use component now), lip sync problems galore, inability to pause or once paused inability to resume play without yanking the power cord and reboot. Can't really show guests HD DVD's anymore for fear it will lock in the middle of the movie and I'll have to spend 5 minutes or more getting the movie going again from the same spot. What a pathetic joke. :mad: :mad: :mad:

[bitemymac]

reading from all the A2 owners feedbacks, I think the newer firmware will promise alot of improvements on the user friendliness and load/boot time. The load may time still be bit slower side due to slower HD-DVD rom drive, but every other functions may see improvements. It seems the HDMI handshake process has been improved and we also may see the same benefits handed down from the A2's. Well, we may get nothing, but I can always hope. I just wish it would happen sooner, even if it's nothing....

[alfbinet]

reading from all the A2 owners feedbacks, I think the newer firmware will promise alot of improvements on the user friendliness and load/boot time. The load may time still be bit slower side due to slower HD-DVD rom drive, but every other functions may see improvements. It seems the HDMI handshake process has been improved and we also may see the same benefits handed down from the A2's. Well, we may get nothing, but I can always hope. I just wish it would happen sooner, even if it's nothing....

I believe Toshiba said they would support firmware updates through 2008 for 1G players. If my understanding is incorrect let me know. I am thinking of upgrading from my A1 to the AX2 when released.

[muzz]

It would be nice if they fixed the colorspace issue that they broke in 2.0
It would be great if they gave you the option of output, but I seriously doubt they would do that.

It would also be great if they allowed you to stretch Non Anomorphic material(not zoom).
Boot times are really a non-issue, I can deal with that.

The Handshake issues are still there for some folks(not me, I have no issues there), and the Nec Drive is too finicky, it would be nice if the could somehow make it less so, but I doubt there is much they can do there, as it's probably all hardware based problems.

1 Thing that they should do some work on, is the audio calibrations, you shouldn't have to dick around so much to get it to work right.

They haven't released anything since late May/Early June, and THAT release broke stuff, and with that flash, there was no going back to earlier versions ( drive was flashed?).
At least allow folks to flash back to an earlier version if they MUST, to get their gear working correctly.
Breaking stuff, and then NOT providing a fix, is poor CS IMO.
This unit is $5-800, not a $60 DVD player we're talking about here.

Just a few thoughts.....

[YONEXSP]

There is a post on another thread, says that Toshiba are shipping Firmware 2.1 in the post now. It's only heresay for now, so I have no idea if it is true or not.

[amb7247]

I hope this is true. Im getting a player that was used brefly in a store and im sure it's never been flashed. so 2.1 would be nice to have for x-mas.

[Jak15]

If I have my Internet cable connected to the A2 player does it update it auto? Or do i need to Navigate and DL manually.

[boblinds]

In another forum, Robert Zohn indicated that he would be able to post more about a Tosh firmware upgrade on Monday! Perhaps the upgrade is nearly here?

[pedrojunkie]

can I have my discrete on/off for Christmas?

[drhankz]

can I have my discrete on/off for Christmas?

Sorry you have been a BAD BOY and Santa [Toshiba] did not
Implement a discrete on/off code.

[rwestley]

I spoke to Toshiba last week and they said there will be an update soon. No date given.

[ss9001]

I hope it fixes the HDMI-DVI colorspace & black level problems. That needs to be fixed, period!

I have not upgraded to 2.0 (using 1.4) and REALLY want to watch King Kong:) But I'm not risking wrecking what I have, so bring it on Toshiba.

ss9001

[David Susilo]

can I have my discrete on/off for Christmas?

I don't think it's possible. For dicrete on/off the change needs to be on the player and on the remote side. While firmware update can fix the player side, nothing can be done on the remote side.

[dlhoppe]

I don't think it's possible. For dicrete on/off the change needs to be on the player and on the remote side. While firmware update can fix the player side, nothing can be done on the remote side.

There is plenty of equipment out there that respond to a discreet off as well as the "toggle" signal for on/off. The player could certainly have the ability to recognize both, and the remote would still work fine using only the "toggle".

[R Harkness]

(I'm posting in this thread because it seems the older firmware sticky threads aren't very active anymore, and I need this figured out fast):

I need to update to 2.0 firmware on my A1, via ethernet.

It appears to me that the process presumes a set-up that not many people would actually have: that is the A1 set up to their video monitor, while simultaneously being in proximity to a cable modem. I sure as heck don't have that - my cable modem and Internet connection/computer are in an entirely different room than my TV screen!

I mean, it appears to me you have to see the A1 on-screen menu (via your TV display) while performing this, inputting all the ethernet data, while it's plugged into your cable modem.

So how to do this easily?

Any suggestions? Do I need to go out and buy a 20ft ethernet cable to reach into my computer room?

Or...can I input all the ISP ethernet info into the A1 while it's hooked up to my display, then shut the A1 down, haul it over to my cable modem, hook it up and then....er....get it do update?

This is driving me nuts! I just want to watch my friggin' King Kong HD-DVD!!!!!!!!!!

[stevenjw]

Or setup a wireless connection to it. Seems like you hit most options except looking around for 2.0 to download to disc.

[R Harkness]

So stevenjw,

Can I avoid having to simultaneously have the A1 hooked up to a video monitor AND cable internet?
Can I input all the ISP info while it's hooked up to my display, then haul it over to my cable modem and do the update? Or do I need to have it hooked up to a video monitor to even select the "update" button...meaning I'm stuck needing a video monitor as I update?

Thanks.

[pifemaster]

So stevenjw,

Can I avoid having to simultaneously have the A1 hooked up to a video monitor AND cable internet?
Can I input all the ISP info while it's hooked up to my display, then haul it over to my cable modem and do the update? Or do I need to have it hooked up to a video monitor to even select the "update" button...meaning I'm stuck needing a video monitor as I update?

Thanks.
Since you will need the ability to naviagte to the correct screen in the setup menu and then navigate through the license agreements, I don't see how you can do it without being hooked up to both at the same time.

You can pick up a 25' cat 5 cable at Monoprice for under $4.00 plus shipping:
http://www.monoprice.com/products/subdepartment.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10208&style=

Bob

[HiFiGuy1]

Or you can get one at Office Depot for probably $10 right now and not have to wait or pay shipping. ;) :D

Rich H,
Have you not sent in your card for the disc? That is how I updated, as my HD-XA1 doesn't seem to want to connect via Ethernet. I have tried static and DHCP, forced manual settings, everything I can think of and it doesn't seem to want to cooperate. The disc arrived, I popped it into the player, and minutes later I had TrueHD audio (mmm, yummy) as well as the problems (yucky) of 2.0 firmware. I use component anyway, so some of the problems don't bother me, but YMMV.

[jameskollar]

Or go here for a Nero ISO image of the download disc.

http://www.spoonhead.com/Downloads.htm

Like the author of the web page, I too assume no responsibility for the "correctness" of this image.

[R Harkness]

AAAAAAAAAAAGH!

So I just bought a friggin' 25' ethernet cable, jumped through all the hoops and I'm getting a "can not find out sever" error message! Could this be any more of an aggravating process just to watch whatever movie I want on this thing?!!!!

I phoned my ISP, they said the DHCP stuff should have worked. Anyone else figured this out?

I can't wait for a disc in the mail because I need this solved by tomorrow (for specific reasons).

Regarding the Nero image of the disk, do I need the Nero program to unpack it or something? (I don't have Nero, and I'm on a Mac).

Thanks.

(Slams forehead against desk).

[SamwisetheBrave]

(I'm posting in this thread because it seems the older firmware sticky threads aren't very active anymore, and I need this figured out fast):

I need to update to 2.0 firmware on my A1, via ethernet.

It appears to me that the process presumes a set-up that not many people would actually have: that is the A1 set up to their video monitor, while simultaneously being in proximity to a cable modem. I sure as heck don't have that - my cable modem and Internet connection/computer are in an entirely different room than my TV screen!

I mean, it appears to me you have to see the A1 on-screen menu (via your TV display) while performing this, inputting all the ethernet data, while it's plugged into your cable modem.

So how to do this easily?

Any suggestions? Do I need to go out and buy a 20ft ethernet cable to reach into my computer room?

Or...can I input all the ISP ethernet info into the A1 while it's hooked up to my display, then shut the A1 down, haul it over to my cable modem, hook it up and then....er....get it do update?

This is driving me nuts! I just want to watch my friggin' King Kong HD-DVD!!!!!!!!!!
Why do all this? :confused:
I just called Toshiba and had the disk within a week. Fifteen minute setup and KK looks fabulous! :D

[Bill C.]

AAAAAAAAAAAGH!

So I just bought a friggin' 25' ethernet cable, jumped through all the hoops and I'm getting a "can not find out sever" error message! Could this be any more of an aggravating process just to watch whatever movie I want on this thing?!!!!

I phoned my ISP, they said the DHCP stuff should have worked. Anyone else figured this out?

I can't wait for a disc in the mail because I need this solved by tomorrow (for specific reasons).

Regarding the Nero image of the disk, do I need the Nero program to unpack it or something? (I don't have Nero, and I'm on a Mac).

Thanks.

(Slams forehead against desk).
Respectively: did you enable the DHCP and DNS options in the 'A1's setup screens? It needs those enabled to get out onto any given network at large.

As for the Nero image...if it's an .nrg file, you need something that can specifically read or convert Nero image files. If it's the common .iso variety, you can use Toast or whatever to burn it without any problems.

[jameskollar]

AAAAAAAAAAAGH!

So I just bought a friggin' 25' ethernet cable, jumped through all the hoops and I'm getting a "can not find out sever" error message! Could this be any more of an aggravating process just to watch whatever movie I want on this thing?!!!!

I phoned my ISP, they said the DHCP stuff should have worked. Anyone else figured this out?

I can't wait for a disc in the mail because I need this solved by tomorrow (for specific reasons).

Regarding the Nero image of the disk, do I need the Nero program to unpack it or something? (I don't have Nero, and I'm on a Mac).

Thanks.

(Slams forehead against desk).

Yes, you need Nero. As far as I know they only make a Linux and Windows version.

As far as the cable you bought, did you plug it directly into your modem? If not, is it going to a hub? If I am not mistaken, when you connect directly to the modem you need a cross over cable. If true, then the cable you have connected to your Modem and MAC will have a red band on it indicating it is a cross over cable.

Sooo.... If the above is true, you may be able to remedy the situation by purchasing a female to female RJ 45 connector. Use your current cross over cable and connect it to the longer cable you just bought.

I don't know what kind of modem you have, but if it does not have a hardware firewall, I would seriously consider purchasing a hub. They are not very expensive and would solve two problems:

1) Your longer cable will now work, gaurenteed.
2) You can basically "hide" your computer from the outside world. Someone trying to beak in using your IP address with a properly configured hub would see nothing.

I apologize in advance if I got any of this wrong.

[R Harkness]

SamwisetheBrave,

As I said, I need this done by tomorrow.

Bill C.,

Yes I'd turned on both DHCP and DNS per instructions. Thanks.

jameskollar,

I'm connecting directly to my cable modem - no hub. The packaging of the cable does not mention whether it is a "crossover" cable or not. However, I can see a few different colored stripes through the plastic of the connector, and one of the bands is red. Does this indicate a crossover cable?

Thanks.

My ISP has just thrown up it's hands and told me to contact Toshiba about the problem. Sigh. Great.

EDIT: A phone call to Future Shop (where I bought the cable) seems to indicate I didn't buy a crossover cable. Hopefully that's the key here. Many thanks.

[enricot]

Did you try rebooting your modem? If you do not have a router, you need to reset the MAC address attached to the modem by unplugging your modem for 30 seconds.

[SamwisetheBrave]

SamwisetheBrave,

As I said, I need this done by tomorrow.

Bill C.,

Yes I'd turned on both DHCP and DNS per instructions. Thanks.

jameskollar,

I'm connecting directly to my cable modem - no hub. The packaging of the cable does not mention whether it is a "crossover" cable or not. However, I can see a few different colored stripes through the plastic of the connector, and one of the bands is red. Does this indicate a crossover cable?

Thanks.

My ISP has just thrown up it's hands and told me to contact Toshiba about the problem. Sigh. Great.

EDIT: A phone call to Future Shop (where I bought the cable) seems to indicate I didn't buy a crossover cable. Hopefully that's the key here. Many thanks.

Sorry! :o My bad for not reading more closely.

[jameskollar]

SamwisetheBrave,


I'm connecting directly to my cable modem - no hub. The packaging of the cable does not mention whether it is a "crossover" cable or not. However, I can see a few different colored stripes through the plastic of the connector, and one of the bands is red. Does this indicate a crossover cable?



The band would be on the cable itself, about an inch or 2 from the connector on both ends.

So let's make sure we're on the same page.

1) I doubt very much that you newly purchased cable is a crossover cable. Most of the cables on the store racks are not crossover cables. Crossover cables usually are in shorter lengths.

2) The cable you currently have connects between your computer and the modem may be a crossover cable. It is THAT cable that you should check to see if it has the red banding. If it does, then using only your longer cable WILL NOT WORK. You must put in a crossover cable. I mentioned a cheat in my previous post to try using a RJ45 connector. I'm not sure that would work but it may be worth a try.

[drhankz]

R Harkness

I'm MAC based and burned all the Nero Files on a MAC with TOAST.

As for the A1 Setup for the Internet.

I configure it MANUALLY [static info] and it always works.
NOTE - Static only works when you have a ROUTER.

The other ways have always been LUCK at best.

[Ein]

Mac=Macintosh

MAC=Media Access Control address.

You should know better than that. :)

[drhankz]

Mac=Macintosh

MAC=Media Access Control address.

You should know better than that. :)

I don't think TOAST works on - MAC=Media Access Control address. :mad:

[deez]

Why not go here (http://www.1080x1920.net/) and burn to a cd??


Just look in the downloads section and you will find the 2.0 firmware...i used it and it works like a charm....

[R Harkness]

I appreciate all the replies.

It's still in slamming-head-against-desk territory: I just returned the non-crossover cable to Future shop and, of course, that giant store has no crossover cables!

How is it so many people here are effortlessly updating their A1s via ethernet, when these mysterious crossover cables seem so freaking hard to get a hold of???

jameskollar,

The ethernet cable connecting my computer to my cable modem doesn't have a red band anywhere.

drhankz,

I have TOAST on my iMacG5 - does that mean I can download and use the Nero firmware?

deez,

Is that link to a Nero file as well?

Thanks folks!

[jmpage2]

What's amazing to me is that we are still inundated with "how do I update my A1 to 2.0" queries in the freaking 2.1 FW thread.

If you aren't posting with info about 2.1 then put your already answered questions about upgrading to 2.0 in the appropriate thread!

:mad:

[drhankz]

drhankz,

I have TOAST on my iMacG5 - does that mean I can download and use the Nero firmware?


Yes - if you have TOAST - just download the Nero File which has the
.nrg extension - NOT the .ISO Extension and Toast will BURN YOU
a CD Effortlessly .

[jameskollar]

Yes - if you have TOAST - just download the Nero File which has the
.nrg extension - NOT the .ISO Extension and Toast will BURN YOU
a CD Effortlessly .

Ok, having a crossover cable is probably not the answer since there are NO red bands on the cable you normally use. Therefore, DHCP must be failing for you. You could try taking the TCPIP settings off your MAC and putting that into the Tosh. I have not had any luck with fixed IP addresses, had to switch to DHCP, but maybe you'll get lucky.

I don't own a Mac, but perhaps drhankz has the answer. Don't know what Toast is all about but check this link. A quick google search found this.

http://www.geocities.com/doc_piano/akai-cd_mac.html

Best of luck. Let us know if you suceeded or failed.

[deez]

I appreciate all the replies.

It's still in slamming-head-against-desk territory: I just returned the non-crossover cable to Future shop and, of course, that giant store has no crossover cables!

How is it so many people here are effortlessly updating their A1s via ethernet, when these mysterious crossover cables seem so freaking hard to get a hold of???

jameskollar,

The ethernet cable connecting my computer to my cable modem doesn't have a red band anywhere.

drhankz,

I have TOAST on my iMacG5 - does that mean I can download and use the Nero firmware?

deez,

Is that link to a Nero file as well?

Thanks folks!

What is the problem here???
Are you telling me that you cant download a file and burn it to a cd??

thats amazing

[jmpage2]

Will you guys PLEASE take your discussion of burning/downloading/upgrading 2.0 Firmware to the appropriate thread and stop dumping in this one.

This thread is for info on 2.1 FW release ONLY

[David Susilo]

considering FW 2.1 is not available, what is the point of this thread anyway? :p

[jameskollar]

Perhaps if the thread read "Firmware 2.1 here" instead of "Firmware 2.1 ?" I doubt there would be any replies to the latter thread,

Point is, if you can't download 2.0 I doubt you'll be able to download 2.1.

Maybe I'm outta my mind (some have said as much) but in this forum at least I get the impression that as a community we are trying to help each other out without bashing each other, so sometimes we go off topic. So what. Same can't be said for another closely related forum.

[dpippel]

jmpage2 has a good point. There's ALREADY a thread (multiple threads in fact) about downloading/burning/updating to 2.0 that's about 9,999 freakin' pages long. *This* thread is about 2.1 and what it may contain. Anyone who's having a problem with 2.0 this late in the game should just go here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=685252

It's ALL been asked and answered before right there. If it hasn't, then that's the appropriate thread to bring your questions to, not this one.

[R Harkness]

Last on the subject:

"What is the problem here???
Are you telling me that you cant download a file and burn it to a cd?? thats amazing"

From what I'd read before in the other firmware update threads, the only firmware file available via download was a Nero file, and people were saying you had to have Nero - a PC program - to unpack it and use it (and I have neither Nero nor a PC...I'm on Mac). But in this thread I'm told if I download the file with the proper extension, my TOAST program should be able to burn it. So I'll try that.

Thanks everyone, sorry for the de-rail, but I really needed this done by today and the old firmware threads I'd searched seemed virtually inactive, with no one posting in them anymore.

Cheers,

[GmanAVS]

Rich, you are welcome to derail any thread in any forum, hopefully you were able to update your A1 to fw 2.0.... am sure you are impressing many with it :)

jmpage2, deez, dpippel, I understand this is a fw 2.1 thread but why the harshness? Rich is one of the nicest persons (and most highly respected I may add) to grace AVS's forums and, obviously in need of help, cut him some slack if he can't burn the proper CD on his Mac, my bet is that he can calibrate a flat screen way better than you can, tho he will never put you down or talk down to you because of this.

Be nice, don't be Blue.... ;)

[deez]

Rich, you are welcome to derail any thread in any forum, hopefully you were able to update your A1 to fw 2.0.... am sure you are impressing many with it :)

jmpage2, deez, dpippel, I understand this is a fw 2.1 thread but why the harshness? Rich is one of the nicest persons (and most highly respected I may add) to grace AVS's forums and, obviously in need of help, cut him some slack if he can't burn the proper CD on his Mac, my bet is that he can calibrate a flat screen way better than you can, tho he will never put you down or talk down to you because of this.

Be nice, don't be Blue.... ;)

I was serious about that.....i would never use the ethernet on the hd dvd player to update...well, i might but i was really amazed that someone with his experience could not dl and install this firmware from the link i posted.....no harm meant and i hope it wasn't taken that way rich....merry xmas!!!

[jameskollar]

Rich, you are welcome to derail any thread in any forum, hopefully you were able to update your A1 to fw 2.0.... am sure you are impressing many with it :)

jmpage2, deez, dpippel, I understand this is a fw 2.1 thread but why the harshness? Rich is one of the nicest persons (and most highly respected I may add) to grace AVS's forums and, obviously in need of help, cut him some slack if he can't burn the proper CD on his Mac, my bet is that he can calibrate a flat screen way better than you can, tho he will never put you down or talk down to you because of this.

Be nice, don't be Blue.... ;)

Right on! Hope I was at least some help to Rich. BTW Rich, did you get the firmware update?

[kmlm13]

i just bought a used HD A1, and where do I go to check what firmware I have??? it was a display model at BB for 300 with 30 bucks gift card for free.

[dpippel]

jmpage2, deez, dpippel, I understand this is a fw 2.1 thread but why the harshness?
I'm not trying to be harsh, and Rich may be a great person. I won't question that. All I'm saying is that we have threads on different subjects to keep those different subjects segregated and organized. Without organization the thread descends into chaos. Just a pet peeve of mine, and it happens at AVS more than any other home theater forum I habituate. Rich may be a great person, but with 4.5K posts under his belt he should exhibit a little more discipline. Discipline I tell you!!! ;)

[Robert D]

i just bought a used HD A1, and where do I go to check what firmware I have??? it was a display model at BB for 300 with 30 bucks gift card for free.

In the players setup screen go to Maintenance/update and the installed version is displayed. The latest version is 2.0.

[HumanMedia]

Which format (CD-ROM or online) of the previous updates was released first?

And is it worth checking for updates with an internet connection every week or so?
(like most I have 2.0 but I am anxious for 2.1)

[jmpage2]

I'm not trying to be harsh, and Rich may be a great person. I won't question that. All I'm saying is that we have threads on different subjects to keep those different subjects segregated and organized. Without organization the thread descends into chaos. Just a pet peeve of mine, and it happens at AVS more than any other home theater forum I habituate. Rich may be a great person, but with 4.5K posts under his belt he should exhibit a little more discipline. Discipline I tell you!!! ;)

I have to agree.

It's not like we don't already have umpteen threads on updating FW on the A1 with hundreds (literally) of informative posts for those who are CD burner challenged.

Rich might be the nicest guy and best calibrator in the world but I'm not sure what that has to do with the price of tea in China.

For those who don't understand why this is annoying, I and probably many others here, get an email notice when this thread is responded to. I click the thread hoping for some news of FW 2.1 and instead get to read through yet another post from someone who has hijacked the thread with their FW 2.0 update issues.

[deez]

Why doesn't the author of this thread change the title to "Firmware 2.1- news and info of Upcoming new firmware only" or something like that....

[Milt99]

but with 4.5K posts under his belt he should exhibit a little more discipline How does a 4.5k post count indicate "posting discipline". Think about it ;)

[pifemaster]

Why doesn't the author of this thread change the title to "Firmware 2.1- news and info of Upcoming new firmware only" or something like that....I think a better thread title would be "145 posts and we still don't know **** about firmware version 2.1"

OH NO - now its 146 posts :D :D

Just kidding

[khwiggins2]

Mods - can we close this thread and start a new one? Please? I keep looking for info on 2.1 and finding this.

[David Susilo]

this thread is as useful as "will Disney release HD DVD?" threads.

[dpippel]

How does a 4.5k post count indicate "posting discipline". Think about it ;)
It indicates that someone has either been here for a good long time (experienced) or has diarrhea of the keyboard. I chose to assume the former. :D

[muzz]

Great, now the A2 has issues playing HDMI>DVI (480P on some displays... YOOOOW :eek: )...

Looks like they'll be trying to fix that now, probably pushing us back even further!!

The issues the A1 has are REAL, they have been around for awhile, and Tosh hasn't done a thing about them in 6 months..
Sad Really, considering the A1+XA1 were $5-800 machines.

My A1 plays very good, but there are issues that should have been addressed awhile back, that are still untouched.....
Now we get to wait until they fix a 480P bug on their new model!!

I never had that happen... :p

[HumanMedia]

Wish list for firmware 2.1

*HDMI to DVI BTB problems
*HDCP handshaking improvements (some projectors have consistent or intermittent HDMI Error 1)
*Eliminate all skipping (which still affects some users even with clean discs)
*CUE (Chroma Upsampling Error) fix
*Faster disk access response times
*Faster startup/boot time
*Hardware Resume/Play
*1080P25/1080P50 support (on International models for PAL sourced video )


Anything else?

[Robert D]

Wish list for firmware 2.1

*HDMI to DVI BTB problems
*HDCP handshaking on some projectors (consistent or intermittent HDMI Error 1)
*Skipping for some users even with clean discs
*Impoved disk response times
*DTS HD decoding

Anything else?

Resume play.

[bitemymac]

Wish list for firmware 2.1

*HDMI to DVI BTB problems
*HDCP handshaking improvements (some projectors have consistent or intermittent HDMI Error 1)
*Eliminate all skipping (which still affects some users even with clean discs)
*CUE (Chroma Upsampling Error) fix
*Faster disk access response times
*Faster startup/boot time
*Hardware Resume/Play


Anything else?

Refund?......... j/k. :)

[pasey25]

Wish list for firmware 2.1

*HDMI to DVI BTB problems
*HDCP handshaking improvements (some projectors have consistent or intermittent HDMI Error 1)
*Eliminate all skipping (which still affects some users even with clean discs)
*CUE (Chroma Upsampling Error) fix
*Faster disk access response times
*Faster startup/boot time
*Hardware Resume/Play
*1080P25/1080P50 support (on International models for PAL sourced video )


Anything else?

1080i/72hz

[deez]

this thread is as useful as "will Disney release HD DVD?" threads.


But i get an email response once and hour on this thread.....

[deez]

Wish list for firmware 2.1

*HDMI to DVI BTB problems
*HDCP handshaking improvements (some projectors have consistent or intermittent HDMI Error 1)
*Eliminate all skipping (which still affects some users even with clean discs)
*CUE (Chroma Upsampling Error) fix
*Faster disk access response times
*Faster startup/boot time
*Hardware Resume/Play
*1080P25/1080P50 support (on International models for PAL sourced video )


Anything else?


Yes, call the firmware 2.2 so we can close this thread...lol

[Robert D]

How about a way to tell the player to always play the TrueHD audio track if available?

[Brett Miles]

Wish list for firmware 2.1

*HDMI to DVI BTB problems
*HDCP handshaking improvements (some projectors have consistent or intermittent HDMI Error 1)
*Eliminate all skipping (which still affects some users even with clean discs)
*CUE (Chroma Upsampling Error) fix
*Faster disk access response times
*Faster startup/boot time
*Hardware Resume/Play
*1080P25/1080P50 support (on International models for PAL sourced video )


Anything else?

MY #1 complaint is the audio calibration/bass managment! My receiver doesn't have individual settings by input, so I would have to adjust the subwoofer level every time. (Even then I don't think the balance came out quite right on the SPL meter.) I've just been using the digital outputs as a result, which defeats the whole reason I bought this player over the A2.

[dpippel]

Wish list for firmware 2.1

*HDMI to DVI BTB problems
*HDCP handshaking improvements (some projectors have consistent or intermittent HDMI Error 1)
*Eliminate all skipping (which still affects some users even with clean discs)
*CUE (Chroma Upsampling Error) fix
*Faster disk access response times
*Faster startup/boot time
*Hardware Resume/Play
*1080P25/1080P50 support (on International models for PAL sourced video )


Anything else?
Remaining time display on OSD.

[Lou Sytsma]

Resume play. Is this not solely a disc authoring issue?

[Skyeclad]

Remaining time display on OSD.


I hear that one. I hit info on my 880 and I find out how long I've spent watching a chapter but no idea how much longer the disc will be.

For what it's worth, disc remaining time is on the unit itself when you press display but if you're 15+ feet away from the player, it does you no good.

[dpippel]

For what it's worth, disc remaining time is on the unit itself when you press display but if you're 15+ feet away from the player, it does you no good.
Exactly. The unit has the data. Why not display it in the OSD?

[PRMan]

Wish list for firmware 2.1

*HDMI to DVI BTB problems
*HDCP handshaking improvements (some projectors have consistent or intermittent HDMI Error 1)
*Eliminate all skipping (which still affects some users even with clean discs)
*CUE (Chroma Upsampling Error) fix
*Faster disk access response times
*Faster startup/boot time
*Hardware Resume/Play
*1080P25/1080P50 support (on International models for PAL sourced video )


Anything else?

Play video stored on my network shares?

[gnats]

Interesting, I've been wondering if the skipping/lip synch problem is HDMI related, audio related or disc related. The fact that you had no problems with your component connection, makes me wonder if it isn't HDMI. Has anyone done a survey as to what connections/settings that this problem occurs in? Barring a disc manufacturing problem, we should be able to come to a concensus on what might be causing this skip issue.


I returned mine but not until they had an a2 in stock... I paid the difference and that was that :)

[dpippel]

Play video stored on my network shares?
GRIND MY ESPRESSO!! :D

[FoolintheRain]

Personally, I have not had one hiccup with my XA1. The only things I want are DTS-HD MA decoding. And that's just really for braggin rights :)

[sknight1]

*** BUMP ***

It's February now -- where is it??

Anybody know the latest on a firmware update for us Gen1 owners?

Many thanks!

[vurbano]

Play video stored on my network shares?
All of the horsepower is there to do this. I do not know why they dont implement it. I could toss out my linkplayer2 then.

[David Susilo]

yeah, where is the new firmware? (or new titles, for that matter).

[vurbano]

How about a way to tell the player to always play the TrueHD audio track if available?
that would be great.

[SomethingMore]

How about a way to tell the player to always play the TrueHD audio track if available?


Honestly, if that were the ONLY update in 2.1, it'd be worth the wait. But that's me... I've had no issues with my HD-A1. *knock on wood*

[Sisko197]

yeah, where is the new firmware? (or new titles, for that matter).


I think 2.1 is a myth. I long ago accepted that the A1's had its day and the updates are almost certainly done, Toshiba promise or no. The A2 and XA2 have enough problems Toshiba'll be working on them for a long, long time. Then there's the A20 that isn't even out yet...

And let's face it, Toshiba doesn't seem to have the staff to produce two different firmware updates at the same time. They can't even update the A2 and XA2 simultaneously.

What makes you think they'll be able to do the much-needed A2, XA2, A20, and A1/XA1 updates? ;) I say give up on the dream.

[Gary Murrell]

I agree forget the A1/XA1, they are what they are, which in my case was near perfection

-Gary

[nocski]

Personally, I have not had one hiccup with my XA1. The only things I want are DTS-HD MA decoding. And that's just really for braggin rights :)

Here here! I second the motion. :)

[TrevorS]

I think 2.1 is a myth. I long ago accepted that the A1's had its day and the updates are almost certainly done, Toshiba promise or no. The A2 and XA2 have enough problems Toshiba'll be working on them for a long, long time. Then there's the A20 that isn't even out yet...

And let's face it, Toshiba doesn't seem to have the staff to produce two different firmware updates at the same time. They can't even update the A2 and XA2 simultaneously.

What makes you think they'll be able to do the much-needed A2, XA2, A20, and A1/XA1 updates? ;) I say give up on the dream.

I guess it's no surprise that individuals here tend to post entirely from their individual perspective. Fact is, all we as individuals really care about is ourselves! We're really amazingly self-centered that way. Problem is, Toshiba has a plate containing far more issues than ours! We may feel the entire world starts and stops at our doorstep, but Toshiba is engaged in a battle to expand its customer base and make it's product successful, and the primary tools for that are the A2 and soon-to-be A20.

Much as we may find it objectionable, we're necessarily stuck waiting in line for attention to be paid to OUR issues. The only thing that boggles me is how you people are so oblivious to the facts of the situation. For Toshiba, the entire investment into HD-DVD is at stake, and correcting any particular problem with G1 isn't going to have a significant impact on that. We (as G1 owners) are simply going to have to await our turn. It doesn't mean that we are being ignored, only that there are limited resources and Toshiba has no choice but to prioritize.

No, it's not fun, but it's understandable, unavoidable, and clearly the right thing for Toshiba to be doing. Bottom line is, if you can't wait, the only resort is to sell your player and buy a more recent model (which will likely have issues as well :)).

[Forceflow]

I agree forget the A1/XA1, they are what they are, which in my case was near perfection

-Gary

I would seriously question the merit of installing 2.1 if it did come out. I mean, what update is worth the risk of killing your HD DVD player (if its working perfectly). For all those without perfectly functioning G1s, it may be worth a shot.

[yorkie2k]

Toshiba will likely release more firmware updates for the gen1 players, but like most consumer electronics companies, only when they feel enough pressure to do so. Feedback from repair/failure data & end user complaints are taken very seriously. Some problems require alot of time to verify & solve. If a problem isn't that widespread or urgent, then the engineering resources are simply directed to something more critical.

[dsak757]

...

[bitemymac]

Much as we may find it objectionable, we're necessarily stuck waiting in line for attention to be paid to OUR issues. The only thing that boggles me is how you people are so oblivious to the facts of the situation. For Toshiba, the entire investment into HD-DVD is at stake, and correcting any particular problem with G1 isn't going to have a significant impact on that. We (as G1 owners) are simply going to have to await our turn. It doesn't mean that we are being ignored, only that there are limited resources and Toshiba has no choice but to prioritize.

No, it's not fun, but it's understandable, unavoidable, and clearly the right thing for Toshiba to be doing. Bottom line is, if you can't wait, the only resort is to sell your player and buy a more recent model (which will likely have issues as well :)).

I understand that you'd want to give some slack on Toshiba, but the fact is that such lack of support makes it easier for anyone to jump ship. I'm sure many already have. The player ownership poll showed about 50% of PS3 owners also own HD-DVD player. I would think that the defection rate may have been reduced if 1st gen owners for better supported. Not everyone is as patient and would not just wait or keep the faith while being ignored. I own a XA1 which was just sent out for service. I should be getting it back from toshiba end of this week, but I was thinking about picking up XA2 as a second player. However, since there's so much delay and lack of service for fixing some of the trivial broken functions on 1st gen players, I'm not sure if I can confidently buy XA2. The XA2's will soon be phased out by end of 2007 and would be neglected due to 3rd gen player development? Well, seeing what had happened with the 1st gen owners, what would you expect from Toshiba? If I remember correctly, the 1st gen players were introduced in March and was last supported in August of 2006. Which means only 5 months of support...... and this isn't good enough.

[Assayer]

I understand that you'd want to give some slack on Toshiba, but the fact is that such lack of support makes it easier for anyone to jump ship. I'm sure many already have.

Yes, Toshiba's lack of promised firmware support for the A1 was a contributing factor to my deciding to go dual format. I probably would have done it eventually anyway, but Toshiba gave me a push. My A1 was purchased specifically with the intent to play 'King Kong' and now I can't play it without flashing to the broken 2.0 with no hope of going back. Don't get me wrong, it is a nice player when it works, but I'm sick of all the damn bugs.

[kaspj]

No, let's not let Toshiba off the hook guys....

They should at least fix those issues that are fixable. I think some of you are sending out entirely the wrong message to Toshiba.

What happened to updates throughout 2007. Has this been abandoned? I hope not.

[sknight1]

My A1 on average skips/hiccups at least once per movie. If Toshiba could fix this I would be happy.

[David Susilo]

My A1 on average skips/hiccups at least once per movie. If Toshiba could fix this I would be happy.

I've been reading this kind of reports every so often. I'm wondering the reason for this annoyance. I personally have used the A1 since the first day it was introduced in Canada and even with the old firmware I've only experienced a handful of hiccups.

[Audiodynamics]

Well, seeing what had happened with the 1st gen owners, what would you expect from Toshiba? If I remember correctly, the 1st gen players were introduced in March and was last supported in August of 2006. Which means only 5 months of support...... and this isn't good enough.


That's one month of support from Toshiba for every $100.00 spent on a $500.00 1st. Gen player.

If $100 spent = one month of support, then anyone who purchases or has purchased a $999.00 XA2, will hopefully get 10 months of support from Toshiba.


Seriously, I will not buy a second generation Toshiba. The issues with my HD-A1 have never been resolved, (mainly PQ issues - BTB clipping). Based on Toshiba's track record, why would I assume they will ever fix the issues in the new players?

In my opinion, they've dropped the ball on the Gen 1 players. There is no promise of any forthcoming new G1 firmware, so I don't expect it. I believe Toshiba should have resolved all of the Gen 1 issues before introducing the Gen 2 players. At a minimum, they should have resolved all of the issues with the new players before releasing them, again using the consumers as "Beta Testers".

I will not buy an XA2 on blind faith, hoping that Toshiba will continue to support the product until it has reached the point of100% functionality. Even if they do achieve 100% from the XA2, I still may not want to purchase another Toshiba product due to their lack of continued support and inability to resolve the remaining issues with the A1.

If the Gen 1 issues cannot be fixed, a good faith gesture from Toshiba (perhaps a trade in program for those with affected players) would be welcome.

Perhaps after any future class action lawsuits are settled, we'll all receive a $25.00 discount coupon off the price of a new Toshiba?

Just my 2 Cents!

[sknight1]

I've been reading this kind of reports every so often. I'm wondering the reason for this annoyance. I personally have used the A1 since the first day it was introduced in Canada and even with the old firmware I've only experienced a handful of hiccups.


My A1 player was manufactured in June 2006. All of the disc played are discs I have purchased - I don't rent. Not sure why the player has a hiccup problem. FWIW it usually occurs very early or very late into the movie.

I did contemplate sending it in for service, but I felt it might be more trouble than its worth (be w/o a player for several weeks, damaged during shipping, could come back worse than it is now -- you know, all of those pessimistic scenarios).

I haven't been following the A2/XA2 threads closely, but has Toshiba eliminated the skip problem in those players?

[TrevorS]

Yes, Toshiba's lack of promised firmware support for the A1 was a contributing factor to my deciding to go dual format. I probably would have done it eventually anyway, but Toshiba gave me a push. My A1 was purchased specifically with the intent to play 'King Kong' and now I can't play it without flashing to the broken 2.0 with no hope of going back. Don't get me wrong, it is a nice player when it works, but I'm sick of all the damn bugs.

I understand what you guys are saying, though when it comes to purchasing BR, I think the more typical compulsion is a desire to have access to exclusive BR titles. Now that Toshiba is getting into mass market production with HD (probably including a normal life cycle), I expect they'll be able to achieve reasonable product stability, which will open the door to another G1 cycle.

My guess is they've been under a lot of product development and delivery pressure for a while now, and that can't ease much before the A20 is out there and stable. I'm expecting the A20 firmware to be essentially identical to that of the A2 (the hardware also for that matter), and so after two or three firmware release cycles (already had one) things should settle down.

I was guessing nothing before February back in October, and I most recently slid out to April. Would like to see something show up by mid year though :)!

[dmccombs]

Hmmm, So we plop down our $400-$800 dollars for a unit and a game of Russion Roulette. We hope we get a good player, and we hope Toshiba takes the time to fix the bugs keep the players from being what Toshiba advertised.

Even when Toshiba agrees to fix bugs through the end of 2007, we have to hope they keep thier word.

What other product do you spend $400-$800 have to and hope so much with?

When you buy aproduct you pay $xxx dollars for xyz functionality. It is a deal between buyer and seller. Now wouldn't Toshiba be pissed if I had manged to only pay them 95% of the agreed price? Conversely, aren't the buyers going to be pissed when they only get 95% of the functionality?

I agree that Toshiba is not ont he hook to support this through the end of time or add new features, but they do owe the Gen 1 owners one more firmware update that fixes the bugs.

If Toshiba advertises the functions, and takes our money, then they are on the hook to deliver those functions bug-free. They could bring in contractors to do this. Failure to do so is a money thing. They don't need to stop future development to put out a bug-fix type firmware.

Regards,
Darrell

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I guess it's no surprise that individuals here tend to post entirely from their individual perspective. Fact is, all we as individuals really care about is ourselves! We're really amazingly self-centered that way. Problem is, Toshiba has a plate containing far more issues than ours! We may feel the entire world starts and stops at our doorstep, but Toshiba is engaged in a battle to expand its customer base and make it's product successful, and the primary tools for that are the A2 and soon-to-be A20.

Much as we may find it objectionable, we're necessarily stuck waiting in line for attention to be paid to OUR issues. The only thing that boggles me is how you people are so oblivious to the facts of the situation. For Toshiba, the entire investment into HD-DVD is at stake, and correcting any particular problem with G1 isn't going to have a significant impact on that. We (as G1 owners) are simply going to have to await our turn. It doesn't mean that we are being ignored, only that there are limited resources and Toshiba has no choice but to prioritize.

No, it's not fun, but it's understandable, unavoidable, and clearly the right thing for Toshiba to be doing. Bottom line is, if you can't wait, the only resort is to sell your player and buy a more recent model (which will likely have issues as well :)).

[sharkshark]

hey, bug Robert, he's the only one with Toshiba's ear, and I think he's stopped listening to me whine about lack of G1 support...:)

[muzz]

I've heard some folks here state that 1.2 fixes all ails for the A2, but I've read otherwise.....
G1 units have issues, Tosh knows it, but I seriously doubt they are going to do MUCH about it because G2 have issues as well, even STILL!!!
I don't see where buying a G2 is gonna help matters that much, when it has issues as well, and as we G1 owners know, they will ATTEMPT to fix those issues, until G3 hits, and then THEY will be kicked to the curb.

Tosh relied on us to get THEIR platform moving, we responded by buying a buttload of gear and movies to push the format along, all the while HOPING that they would FIX the stuff they BROKE with the latest and greatest( :rolleyes: ) firmware.
"Hey to play this disc- you need to update your player to the latest FW, you'll get 5.1 TrHD, and clipped blacks and whites!!- Sorry about that lil side issue, we'll take care of ya though!!""All the end users are making this stuff up, we have the most solid HW in the business- The Look and Sound of Perfect"!!!

Yeah, sure they will.............
I hope I'm wrong, and they actually are going to help, by fixing THEIR hardware...
I'm not holding my breath.

[TrevorS]

Hmmm, So we plop down our $400-$800 dollars for a unit and a game of Russion Roulette. We hope we get a good player, and we hope Toshiba takes the time to fix the bugs keep the players from being what Toshiba advertised.

Even when Toshiba agrees to fix bugs through the end of 2007, we have to hope they keep thier word.

What other product do you spend $400-$800 have to and hope so much with?

When you buy aproduct you pay $xxx dollars for xyz functionality. It is a deal between buyer and seller. Now wouldn't Toshiba be pissed if I had manged to only pay them 95% of the agreed price? Conversely, aren't the buyers going to be pissed when they only get 95% of the functionality?

I agree that Toshiba is not ont he hook to support this through the end of time or add new features, but they do owe the Gen 1 owners one more firmware update that fixes the bugs.

If Toshiba advertises the functions, and takes our money, then they are on the hook to deliver those functions bug-free. They could bring in contractors to do this. Failure to do so is a money thing. They don't need to stop future development to put out a bug-fix type firmware.

Regards,
Darrell

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

As has been said innumerable times in the past, don't be an early adopter if you can't stand the travails of being an early adopter. This format competition only complicates things, but we knew about that in advance as well. Toshiba said they'd provide support at least through early 2008. I've yet to see a reason to presume otherwise.

Bug fixing requires just as serious attention as any other kind of software work. Personally, I'd much rather they not perform a rush job -- that approach typically creates new problems. They just need to get out of the woods so they can pay attention to us.

[sharkshark]

Toshiba didn't say (at least not that I've seen), people on this board have =said= that Toshiba said. Toshiba hasn't even said on their website that the XA2 is out, or that the firmware update doesn't work on half the players (including any from Canada). Toshiba hasn't started a beta program for the very knowledgeable people on this board to participate in (AVS is of course tremendously responsible for helping the very adopters that are driving these players to the numbers so far).

Once again, look to Oppo - they're not perfect by any means, but they committed themselves to transparency about their programs, and used real world testing to diagnose issues. MS gets it (hi Amir), having one of their own find time to drum up support.

Why oh why wouldn't a multinational corp like Toshiba, clearly the underdog, go out of their way to at the =least= play a communications role that Robert has had to play.

There is so much that could be done if they got their heads out of their butts and started paying attention to the very people that have given them the attach rates that they have enjoyed.

Don't get me wrong, we're a whiny, antagonistic bunch. However, misinformation and secrecy can easily be overcome with clear and open communication. Hell, I'll volunteer - hire me, give me the low down, and I'll try myself to give the straight talk on what's being done, what problems are still out there and being worked on short and medium term. Stop the rumour control, stop the endless wait for FW 2.1 if it's not coming, and start to embrace this incredibly important group of people that are, at this early stage, the bread and butter for this industry.

[TrevorS]

Toshiba didn't say (at least not that I've seen), people on this board have said that Toshiba said.

OK, to be more accurate -- Robert (of Value Electronics) reported that while he was at CEDIA, he was told by a Toshiba representative they would provide support for the G1 players into 2008. And I'm pretty certain "into 2008" were the actual words he used in his post.

If you wish to verify that, his post should be searchable in the original HD-A1 thread (believe that's the right place).

Toshiba hasn't even said on their website that ... the firmware update doesn't work on half the players (including any from Canada).

I read on the Forum that Toshiba had identified an issue that could cause problems using the website update mechanism. Sounded like it would require a CD distribution to provide the final update (something that many G1 owners seem to prefer anyway). Did something else crop up?

Once again, look to Oppo - they're not perfect by any means, but they committed themselves to transparency about their programs, and used real world testing to diagnose issues.

I just guided my brother into an Oppo 970 instead of fooling with an HD player for two reasons. It's a lot cheaper (and he's not rich) plus practically none of the titles from either camp really interest him. My guess though, is Oppo is only too happy not having to deal with the issues Toshiba is wrestling with -- Oppo being blessed with a stable and mature market and technology to work with.

[sharkshark]

...and tech support that'll email you back a personal message in under 10 minutes, and representatives that frequent fora such as AVS to see what needs to be updates, and clear and precise indication about the fixes from various FW updates, and the ability to download ISOs of their FW...

etc. :)

My point remains that a Toshiba employee has told Robert, who has told us. That employee may or may not be the one who decides on support. Nothing has been publicly confirmed by the company regarding forthcoming support ( the Canadian sales guys at the A2 unveiling were all gung ho as fw 2.0 had just come out, that the pace of updates and feature upgrades would long continue...what the hell do they know?)

Until we hear from Toshiba on their website we can all hold our breaths, happy if an update comes, remaining skeptical that it ever will...

[cswartze]

Toshiba said they'd provide support at least through early 2008. I've yet to see a reason to presume otherwise. Um, how about the fact that there's been no support since August of last year -- is that not enough? Toshiba can say what they want, but actions speak louder. I can understand not releasing monthly firmware, but no release for 6 months can pretty much be interpreted as no support.

Some people have questioned why Toshiba would bother supporting G1 players, when they have out G2. Well, maybe because we are a potential audience for G2/G3? Personally, I'd have a problem with that right now, given the lack of updates.

[TrevorS]

Um, how about the fact that there's been no support since August of last year -- is that not enough? Toshiba can say what they want, but actions speak louder. I can understand not releasing monthly firmware, but no release for 6 months can pretty much be interpreted as no support.
I already commented on this in my posts 186 and 190 above.

Some people have questioned why Toshiba would bother supporting G1 players, when they have out G2. Well, maybe because we are a potential audience for G2/G3? Personally, I'd have a problem with that right now, given the lack of updates.
The most likely reason for Toshiba to "bother" is simply to maintain faith with the early adopter community. If they leave the G1 folks in the lurch, then it hurts them in the long run both from word-of-mouth, and for future new technology introductions.

Until we hear from Toshiba on their website we can all hold our breaths, happy if an update comes, remaining skeptical that it ever will...
We're all stuck waiting, but having experienced the other side in the past, I've a lot more empathy with what I perceive to be Toshiba's issues and priorities than it would appear the rest of you have. I take the positive viewpoint based on Robert's input, and you folk take the negative. As you say, we won't really know anything until something happens (or completely fails to :)).

PS. And yes, Oppo does take an exempliary approach to customer support, though I understand that they place an unusual emphasis on customers identifying issues, in comparison to other DVD player manufacturers. I suspect that without the timely support they offer, they would fail in the competitive market place.

Toshiba doesn't yet have competition for HD-DVD, but they do have an awful lot of immediate pressure to resolve any significant outstanding issues with their very first volume players. I suspect their software and test teams have their hands pretty well full.

[dmccombs]

Being an early adopter means there will be bugs to be worked out. I think we all accept that. There were bugs, and for a while Toshiba addressed them. People were OK with that.

What most of us here expect though is that those bugs be taken care of. We have seen six months go by with no firmware updates. During that time, we have seen Toshiba release the Gen2 units and start on the A20.

Being an early adopter doesn't mean you will never get the advertised (working) product.

don't be an early adopter if you can't stand the travails of being an early adopter.

[TrevorS]

Being an early adopter doesn't mean you will never get the advertised (working) product.

No argument, but no reason to presume that to be the reality yet either.

[Assayer]

No argument, but no reason to presume that to be the reality yet either.

Fair enough, but as soon as they finish correcting the worst of the Gen 2 bugs, there will be Gen 3 products to support development of. In a format war, new products will tend to trump legacy ones. I hope that I am wrong, but unless they hire more engineers, we are probably out of luck.