Has anybody used this video processor? If so how is the performance compared to VP50? There is a great clearance sale going on at Digital Connection on this processor. It got a good review in July 2006 issue of HT mag.

Has anybody used this video processor? If so how is the performance compared to VP50? There is a great clearance sale going on at Digital Connection on this processor. It got a good review in July 2006 issue of HT mag.

Very interesting. Looks like a new product I could be interested in. Any idea of its MSRP?

Hope someone responds with the lowdown.:)

Very interesting. Looks like a new product I could be interested in. Any idea of its MSRP?

Hope someone responds with the lowdown.:)

Hi Jim,

The iSync Pro is the silver version of the iSync HD, which is being discontinued as KD tightens up their SKUs. There is about 40 units left on the current sale. The MSRP is $1500, the sale price almost half that and returning customers get even more. You can PM me about the AVS Member price.

Here's the link to the official AVS Member power buy.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=749983

I too would be interested in anyone's experiences. Quality of scaling compared to DVDO, Lumagen?

Quality of deinterlacing comapred to Faroudja, Sil504, Realta, etc?

It looks like it only does predefined output resolutions: 480i/p, 720p, 1080i/p. Kind of limiting in that regard.

I looked at the manual.....also somewhat unclear to me if it supports RGBHV output at higher resolutions.

I too would be interested in anyone's experiences. Quality of scaling compared to DVDO, Lumagen?

Quality of deinterlacing comapred to Faroudja, Sil504, Realta, etc?

It looks like it only does predefined output resolutions: 480i/p, 720p, 1080i/p. Kind of limiting in that regard.

I looked at the manual.....also somewhat unclear to me if it supports RGBHV output at higher resolutions.

Unfortunately, I can't really give you a comparison of the scaling quality as I am currently using a small 37" display set at 1080P, but lets just say it is similar to previous DVDO.

There are more output resolutions which you can find on the power buy page that covers capabilities of most digital displays.

There are no RGBHV output options, only HDMI/Component/C and S Video.

I tried their somewhat similar unit few months ago, the KD HDMI 4x1 switcher/scaler. The scaling & deinterlacing was quite good. It may not be as full featured as DVDO, Lumagen or other scalers out there but may meet needs of some people or for use in a secondary system. Certainly the info available on this unit even at KD's website is inconsistent.

no rgbhv leaves us crt fp guys out. too bad as it looks like a decent piece for the $$.

Wow, that's a hell of a deal.

Question on it though: Can it do HD inverse telecine?

Unfortunately, I can't really give you a comparison of the scaling quality as I am currently using a small 37" display set at 1080P, but lets just say it is similar to previous DVDO.

There are more output resolutions which you can find on the power buy page that covers capabilities of most digital displays.

There are no RGBHV output options, only HDMI/Component/C and S Video.

This is a bit confusing. Below is a quote under video output from the user manual:

HDMI or Component (YPbPr) or RGB with separate (composite H/V Sync)

It implies, perhaps incorrectly, that it supports RGB output. Also, it does not have S-Video output.

This is a bit confusing. Below is a quote under video output from the user manual:

HDMI or Component (YPbPr) or RGB with separate (composite H/V Sync)

It implies, perhaps incorrectly, that it supports RGB output.


That's what I thought so I asked the question for clarification. I'm going to read the maual in some more detail.

Also, what are the differences between isync HD and HDLeeza? From the reference spec, it seems that HDLeeza supports more input/output resolutions and SDI. Any other differences especially with regards to VP performance.

This is a bit confusing. Below is a quote under video output from the user manual:

HDMI or Component (YPbPr) or RGB with separate (composite H/V Sync)

It implies, perhaps incorrectly, that it supports RGB output. Also, it does not have S-Video output.

My bad on the S-Video out, I was looking at the tiny text on their manual that came with the unit.

As for the RGBHV out, it does not state that is part of the output signal types, however in the control section, there is a menu entry that allows you to choose Y-Cb-Cr (I believe that should be Y-Pb-Pr) or RGBHV, which sounds like it will transcode the signal. I will go get a breakout cable and try it on my monitor and report back.

That's what I thought so I asked the question for clarification. I'm going to read the maual in some more detail.

I just checked with KD and it does indeed output RGBHV. Sorry for the incorrect info.

Kei,

Can you confirm whether your Isync HD/Pro's HDMI and Components inputs can accept 480i and 576i resolution formats?

The owner manual on Key Digital's website mentioned these formats are supported where as the (same model) user manual on Digital Connection's website did not.

Your help is much appreciated. Thank you.

Are you sure about this? Earlier I downloaded the isync manual from the KD website and
the owner manual on Key digital website also mentions that the only resolutions supported through the HD inputs(HDMI and Component) are 480p, 576p, 720p and 1080i.

int3,

Please refer to page 8/31 in the iSync HD /Pro User manual under Input & Output Features. Within the Resolution Supported column for both the HDMI and Components video inputs you should able to find the following:

1920 x 1080i at 60/50 Hz
1280 x 720p at 60/50 Hz
720 x 480p & 480i at 60Hz
720 x 576p & 576i at 50 Hz

Do let me know of your thoughts.

I received my ISync Pro today. So far I am satisfied. Component input does accept 480i & I was quite surprised that there was no lipsync delay with analog 480i converted to digital 1080p to Samsung DLP tv. I have not tested 480i input for HDMI. For the price its a bargain for what it does. I am going to hook Flea HDMI to it once I recieve it.

This seems like a great scaler for a first-time buyer like me. I'm looking to put together a nice setup for my master bedroom and thought I'd go with a 42" plasma which would have a 1024 x 768 resolution.

It looks like this scaler doesn't support that resolution, though. Does anyone know if support for this output resolution is planned for a future firmware upgrade?

I received my ISync Pro today. So far I am satisfied. Component input does accept 480i & I was quite surprised that there was no lipsync delay with analog 480i converted to digital 1080p to Samsung DLP tv. I have not tested 480i input for HDMI. For the price its a bargain for what it does. I am going to hook Flea HDMI to it once I recieve it.

Let us know how the Flea works with the iSync. I'm looking at the possibility of getting a Flea as well.

How does the iSync perform with HD? Do you see any improvement after installing it? I would like to know how it handles HD. I suspect it's probably bob and weave, meaning it takes half of a 1080 signal (540) and throws the rest away. I currently have a Faroudja DVP-1000 and that's how it operates.

int3,
Please refer to page 8/31 in the iSync HD /Pro User manual under Input & Output Features. Within the Resolution Supported column for both the HDMI and Components video inputs you should able to find the following:
1920 x 1080i at 60/50 Hz
1280 x 720p at 60/50 Hz
720 x 480p & 480i at 60Hz
720 x 576p & 576i at 50 Hz
Do let me know of your thoughts.

I downloaded the manual from KD website last friday, and it did not have 480i in the suported resolutions for HDMI and Component. After I saw your email, I went back and downloaded the manual and 480i now appears in the supported resolutions. Very interesting!
There was another post from vinodk today that the Isync Pro that he received, does not support 480i on component. This makes me wonder if KD is going to release new firmware that allows iSync to support these resolutions.

ISync Pro does properly deinterlace 1080i to 1080p according to the review in July' 06 issue of HTmag. It takes all input resolutions to 1080p & then outputs the chosen resolution. Atleast in my setup HD programming looks more 3D with more detail. It does excellent job of deinterlacing film. Video deinterlacing for HD is also very good but not the best. I think that video deinterlacing is a tad better on VP50 but not by much. All in all, so far it seems like a keeper.

ISync Pro does properly deinterlace 1080i to 1080p according to the review in July' 06 issue of HTmag. It takes all input resolutions to 1080p & then outputs the chosen resolution. Atleast in my setup HD programming looks more 3D with more detail. It does excellent job of deinterlacing film. Video deinterlacing for HD is also very good but not the best. I think that video deinterlacing is a tad better on VP50 but not by much. All in all, so far it seems like a keeper.

As far as video deinterlacing, the spec sheet indicates "motion assisted deinterlacing". Is this the same as motion adaptive deinterlacing and does the iSCAN do this on a pixel by pixel basis or regionally? Can you tell me if the PQ with 1080i feed of fast motion sports and with horizontal pans is much improved using this video processor when deinterlacing 1080i HD signal to 1080P? Can you point to a technical review of the picture quality benefits? Is there any noise reduction feature? The Home Theater Magazine review was lame IMO and didn't provideenough information to make an informed choice.

if the iSync had motion adaptive, I would jump on it in a second.

If any of you guys have looked at the spec sheet on the KD website, youll note that it doesn't give a consumer much relevant info. All I see are a bunch of KD proprietary terminologies. Hard to make a comparison between their product and those of DVDO, Lumagen, etc.

So I called KD directly, and was told that they are not allowed to share any information that is not on the website. When I explained that the data on the website is truly a bunch of KD terms that really dont offer value to a consumer, he agreed but would not release any additional info.

My only question, as stated above, is if the iSync using the old "bob and weave" or a more advanced "motion adaptive" deinterlacing technique.

The company is a bit too withholding for my tastes.

stixx,

Sorry, I can give you any more information, and my contact is out of reach. I'm a little short on time because we're holding a demo/party with AVS for EHExpo (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=747074) with both iSync Pro and Crystalio II. I'll post my impressions after the show.

I agree that the review in HT mag is a bit abbreviated & info on KD website is very inconsistent. I am not a technical person therefore I cannot provide all the technical info. My impression is only subjective. All I can say is that HD looks better with ISync Pro doing the 1080i to 1080p conversion than Samsung doing it. Unfortunately there are not many reviews out there for this product.

There was another post from vinodk today that the Isync Pro that he received, does not support 480i on component.

On the contrary, his statement did confirmed : "Component input does accept 480i & I was quite surprised that there was no lipsync delay".

On the contrary, his statement did confirmed : "Component input does accept 480i & I was quite surprised that there was no lipsync delay".
Sorry Vince, you are correct.
I am getting dyslectic :(

Is there anybody here who runs their iscan pro or iscanhd at 1080p or1050p to a crt projector [via moome card] and can comment on it?

I just cannot imagine why KD would not disclose if it is "per pixel" or "motion adaptive" deinterlacing. We are not asking them to disclose their algorithms?? They need to realize that it is people like us who buy the video scalers & not your average Joe on the street who doesn't care what form of deinterlacing it is.

I just cannot imagine why KD would not disclose if it is "per pixel" or "motion adaptive" deinterlacing. We are not asking them to disclose their algorithms?? They need to realize that it is people like us who buy the video scalers & not your average Joe on the street who doesn't care what form of deinterlacing it is.
That was exactly my point to the gentleman I spoke to from KD. Seems silly.

Remember that this is the same company that filed the markings off the top of the chips in the HD Leeza so no one could tell which devices were being used. :rolleyes:

- Dale Adams

Remember that this is the same company that filed the markings off the top of the chips in the HD Leeza so no one could tell which devices were being used. :rolleyes:

- Dale Adams

Hard to believe that there is sooooooo little information on this box or Clear Matrix Pro processing out there, but from what I can gather it does do motion adaptive deinterlacing likely (making a safe guess here I think) a step below what VP50, Cristalio II and Vantage can deliver. I just purchased this with the Powerbuy and will report back my findings here. If it comes on Saturday and the shootout guys will make room for this VP - I'll make an effort to get it there for some A/B comparisons with the very best VPs out there. Hopefully, then there will be some good data for others to judge the quality of this unit on going forward. I do feel a bit like I just jumped off a cliff without a parachute.

I for one would be VERY excited to see how this compares to the 'big boys'. I'm sitting on the fence about buying one especially because the return stocking charge is 15% if it doesn't work as well as I'd hope.

Please make try to get it into the shootout if the fellas will allow and the unit gets there in time!

PS I'm thinking about pairing it with a Denon 3930 so deinterlacing isn't as important as scaling......although it would be greate for it to do 1080i inverse telecine for HD content.

I for one would be VERY excited to see how this compares to the 'big boys'. I'm sitting on the fence about buying one especially because the return stocking charge is 15% if it doesn't work as well as I'd hope.

Please make try to get it into the shootout if the fellas will allow and the unit gets there in time!

PS I'm thinking about pairing it with a Denon 3930 so deinterlacing isn't as important as scaling......although it would be greate for it to do 1080i inverse telecine for HD content.

Strange isn't it that nobody seems to know if it does this or not. How would one go about determining what type of algorithm is being employed?

Outta' my league on that question! Maybe Ofer would care to comment??

Do you have any idea of how many units are left? I believe they had 40 to start.

I just wish it would do 1080p@24. Looking for a decent scaler to go with my Pearl.

My one concern is how well my Ehome 8500 FP will resolve 1400x1050. That is the only res higher than 640x480 that is available in 4:3. I've run 840p in 4:3 without problem.

My xg 1100 crt projector handled 1050x1400p [via a test on powerstrip] just fine . 1080p is too high [i think] for an 8 inch crt. pixel clock on 1080p is 190 but on 1050x1400 is 120 [1080i is about 75 jeff.

http://www.keydigital.com/listoftechnologies.aspx
clear matrix pro is what it uses and the company info [above] seems to indicate motion adaptive on a regional basis. jeff.

http://www.keydigital.com/listoftechnologies.aspx
clear matrix pro is what it uses and the company info [above] seems to indicate motion adaptive on a regional basis. jeff.

That makes sense based on when it came out, the retail price point and the fact the big boy's new procssors do something like a trillion computations a second. I don't expect the iSync would keep up with that kind of power, but it might be interesting to know where it lands in terms of price / performance / "bang for the buck". Not all of us have the resources for state-of-the-art video processor, but if th eprice is right we are just as interested in getting an excellent PQ for our home theater.

http://www.keydigital.com/listoftechnologies.aspx
clear matrix pro is what it uses and the company info [above] seems to indicate motion adaptive on a regional basis. jeff.

Very interesting. I notice they upconvert 480i to 1080p, which intuitively makes no sense to me.

Has anyone used a KD scalar which does this and, if so, how is SD performance?

Can anybody try 1080p in to see if it works?

As others have noted, there isn't very much info about this VP. In addition to the review about this unit in Home Theater magazine, there's also a review of Key Digital's HD Hanna in Ultimate AV magazine in May 2005. That unit appears to use the same Clear Matrix Pro processing as the iSync Pro, and the review of its performance seems decent enough. I figure that it's worth a gamble for $700, as there isn't anything with similar features (especially the 1080 deinterlacing) for less than twice that price. Besides, if it doesn't pan out, DVDO gives $600 trade-in credit for the iSync Pro according to their website, so there's not too much loss of investment if one upgrades to a DVDO product in the future.

Dennis

Here's an email I received from Mike Tsinberg @ KD (at least from his email address :) ):

The de-interlacing algorithm is our own developed for the last 6 years. It far too complex then any of Bob and Weave types. It is proprietary. All I can say is that we use motion adaptive techniques to de-interlace video by adopting different mathematics more suitable to type pictures processed such
as: film, video, 3:2 phase, 3:2 mistakes in production, noise, vertical detail, horizontal detail, graphics overlay and some others parameters. All of these estimates are taken into account before deciding how we calculate value of each pixel separately.

I hope it helps.

Thanks,

Here's an email I received from Mike Tsinberg @ KD (at least from his email address :) ):

The de-interlacing algorithm is our own developed for the last 6 years. It far too complex then any of Bob and Weave types. It is proprietary. All I can say is that we use motion adaptive techniques to de-interlace video by adopting different mathematics more suitable to type pictures processed such
as: film, video, 3:2 phase, 3:2 mistakes in production, noise, vertical detail, horizontal detail, graphics overlay and some others parameters. All of these estimates are taken into account before deciding how we calculate value of each pixel separately.

I hope it helps.

Thanks,

This is interesting very interesting. The various key digital features on this box sound really good, but why then doesn't it seem that anybody has done a critical assessment of the PQ generated through this box? Mine was shipped yesterday and if it comes tomorrow I plan to ask the guys looking at the major new VPs in Sunday's shootout if they will let me bring this one in for some comparisons. If so, I will report my results here. It's unlikely to be better than any of the ones being tested, but it will be interesting never-the-less to see how close the "proprietary algorithms" that Mike Tsingberg refers to in his e-mail as being employed in the Isync compare to processors with an order of magnitude greater computational power.

That would be great, but it sounds like they are going to be pretty busy. I hope they can squeeze it in!

Randomcreek-

I'll take it from your silence that the iSynch didn't get there in time to make the shootout. Still would live to hear your thoughts!!!

Randomcreek-

I'll take it from your silence that the iSynch didn't get there in time to make the shootout. Still would live to hear your thoughts!!!

Your correct. I's not here yet. Tomorrow hopefully. I'll report my results sometime next week. I will be using a Sony A2000 60" SXRD (1080P input capable through HDMI) and a panasonic AE900 front projector (720P also through HDMI). My sources are limited to Dish Network SD and HD programming and an Oppo Digital 970 (or my pioneer Elite) DVD player. I'll look at video and film off the satellite and film and Test disks (AVIA and HQV) from the DVD player.

Key digital have been very active in the forums a few years ago. They were the firsts to introduce 1080i deinterlacing (HD LEEZA) and the first to show (LEEZA/Rock with TAW) that an HTPC can be converted into a perfectly decent scaler with enough knowledge and the right software (mark Rejhon to the rescue).

In the last couple of years they turned to a more conventional way of selling their products, using distribution channels and through integrators and have been less interested in persuing the internet crowds (which are far more demanding and need a lot more support). I have not even seen the last few products, including the iSync Pro and we rarely see them here, not because they dont' sell well - but because the users of these products usually rely on integrators and don't often visit AVSForum themselves.

I personally know very little about the iSync Pro, I'm afraid.

Can someone tell me his opinion on how does it compare to the iscan hd+, wheter from personal experience on PQ or from features in specifications for both VP ?

In the last couple of years they turned to a more conventional way of selling their products, using distribution channels and through integrators and have been less interested in persuing the internet crowds (which are far more demanding and need a lot more support)


I saw that they have a "buy" option directly from the website, something i did not see 2 months ago.

I have the HD Leeza and i can vouch that it does marvels for my 720p LCD projector, SD and HD alike. I chose it because IMHO it does a better job with SD than the Lumies and i found it used on the Dirty Bay.

iSync HD Review First look:

The iSync HD arrived yesterday. It's my first external video processor, so as you can imagine I'm thrilled- Christmas on Thanksgiving! It's a low profile unit at 1.5" tall, only about 8" deep and a standard 17' wide. It was easy to find space in my rack, made difficult only by the fact that the instructions indicate you need to keep it away from major heat sources (amps and in my case the satellite box/HD recorder).

With the black box in place (yes they sent me the black one and not the silver one the AVS powerbuy indicates) I moved on to look at what I had been hoping from an external VP, that is - beautiful pictures. Last night I could only get an initial impression. There is quite a bit of work involved in any kind of detailed review so it will take some time to fully determine if this black box does anything useful and more importantly for what specific types of source and programming material combinations.

Okay enough small talk. I connected a DVD player (my Oppo digital 990) to the iSync HD and a Sony 60" A2000 (with 1080p input) via HDMI. I only reviewed a movie so far and will look at test patterns at some time in the future. The best result was found with the the DVD player outputting it's highest resolution (1080i/60) and having the iSync deinterlace this to 1080P. The differences were subtle but visible on Mission Impossible III. During fast action the picture was smoother at times (fast action). For example, there is a scene shot from helicopter where the MI team is travelling in vehicle across a bridge when all hell breaks loose. The bridge railings wizzing by as the camera follows the car along the bridge and the ensuing crash / battle scene looked smoother and more natural. The PQ directly from the DVD players at 1080i with the TV doing the deinterlacing was okay, but a subtle "choppyness" (if that's a word) was evident. I also tried 480i signal via S-video, but he PQ was definitely not as sharp with processing or passing through with this approach (or w/480p for that matter). I plan a 480i test over component tonight. Even though the documentation says that the iSync does not support 480i input over component, it does.

First impression with upscaling DVD player was positive with subtle, but noticeable improvement in fast motion using iSnc to deinterlace 1080i signal from my upscaling DVD player to 1080p native resolution of my SXRD TV. I also note that edges were improved making the overall picture appear sharper. I was a little disappointed not to see a huge difference, but see my next post below for my first impression on how the iSync handles SD and HD material from a satellite box.

iSync HD SD and HD programming:

This is where this VP really shines. My Sony A2000 must scale and process all incoming signals to the set's native 1080P resolution, but with some programming (noatably SD and some HD material) it is not very adept. For example, SD from the satillite box appears soft, so much so that I prefer to watch any SD sports on my old CRT television. Also, with HD sports (720P and 1080i) wether off the dish or over-the-air braodcast there is something I'll call "live grass" (for lack of a better term) where clumps of grass that look sharp and detailed when the camera is still turn into blurry clumps when the camera pans horizontally. The crowd detail also often is riddled with subltle noise that you would not be worried about if the signal were SD, but I don't think this should be very noticible in a uncompressed over-the=air HD program.

I've only tested connecting the HD box to the iSync via component video and then onto the TV via HDMI. The picture qulality with the HD box output set for the native recorded resolution of the material (720p for ESPN/ABC and 1080i for all other HD channels or any resolution for SD programming) resulted in a much improved picture. iSync processed SD was now sharp and very watchable and the annoying video noise and "live grass" in live sports programming were gone in the Monday Night Football game I recorded earlier this week as test material.

I've yet to calibrate the TV or tweak any settings on the iSync or test my front projector with this VP so there is much work to be done. I will continue to report my impressions here. Happy Thanksgiving.

iSync HD SD and HD programming:

This is where this VP really shines. My Sony A2000 must scale and process all signal to the set's native 1080P resolution, but with some programming (noatably SD and some HD material) it is not very adept. For example, SD from the satillite box appears soft, so much so that I prefer to watch any SD sports on my old CRT television. Also, with HD sports (720P and 1080i) wither off the dish or over-the-air braodcast there is something I'll call "live grass" (for lack of a better term) where clumps of grass that look sharp and detailed when the camera is still turn into blurry clumps when the camera pans horizontally. The crowd detail also often is riddled with subltle noise that you would not be worried about it the signal were SD, but not in HD.

I've only tested connecting the HD box to the iSync via component video and then onto the TV via HDMI. The picture qulality wiht the HD box out put set for native recorded resolution of the material (720p for ESPN/ABC and 1080i for all other HD channels or any resolution for SD programming) resulted in a much improved picture. iSync processed SD was now sharp and very wachable and the annoying video noise and "live grass" in live sports programming were gone in the Monday Night Football game I recorded earlier this week as test material.

I've yet to calibrate the TV or tweak any settings on the iSync or test my front projector with this VP so there is much work to be done. I will continue to report my impressions here. Happy Thanksgiving.


Does your STB have HDMI out?

So far is it looking like a good deal? I recently got a JVC (56FH97), and am intrigued this deal.

Shane D

iSync HD Review First look:

The iSync HD arrived yesterday. It's my first external video processor so as you can imagine I'm thrilled- Christmas on Thanksgiving! It's a low profile unit at 1.5" tall, only about 8" deep and a standard 17' wide. It was easy to find space in my rack, made difficult only by the fact that the instructions indicate you need to keep it away from major heat sources (amps and in my case the satellite box/HD recorder).

With black box in place (yes they sent me the black one and not the silver one the AVS powerbuy indicates) I moved on to look at what I had been hoping from an external VP, that is - beautiful pictures. Last night I could only get an initial impression. There is quite a bit of work involved in any kind of detailed review so it will take some time to fully determine if this black box does any thing useful and more importantly for what specific type of source and programming material combinations.

Okay enough small talk. I connected DVD player (Oppo digital 990) to iSync HD and Sony 60" A2000 (with 1080p input) via HDMI. I only reviewed a movie so far and will look at test patterns at some time in the future. The best result was found with the the DVD player outputting it's highest resolution (1080i/60) and having the iSync deinterlace this to 1080P. The differences were subtle but visible on Mission Impossible III. During fast action the picture was smoother at times (fast action). For example, there is a scene shot from helicopter where the MI team is travelling in vehicle across a bridge when all hell breaks loose. The bridge railings wizzing by as the camera follows the car along the bridge and the ensuring crash / battle scene looked smoother and more natural. The PQ directly from the DVD players at 1080i with the TV doing the deinterlacing was okay, but a subtle "choppyness" (if that's a word) was evident. I also tried 480i signal via S-video, but PQ was definitely not as sharp with processing or passing through with this approach (or w/480p for that matter). I plan a 480i test over component tonight. Even though the documentation says that the iSync does not support 480i input over component, it does.

First impression with upscaling DVD player was positive with subtle, but noticeable improvement in fast motion using iSnc to deinterlace 1080i signal from my upscaling DVD player to 1080p native resolution of my SXRD TV. I also note that edges were improved making the overall picture appear sharper. I was a little disappointed not to see a huge difference, but see my next post below for my first impression on how the iSync handles SD and HD material from a satellite box.



Does it support 480i input and output via HDMI? Thanks

Does it support 480i input and output via HDMI? Thanks

The manual states that the iSync does not support 480i input via HDMI or component. However, it does accept 480i from my HD satillite box component. I've only tested the 480i HDMI output from the Oppo DVD player and this resulted in a "not supported" on the front panel input indicator. I assumed it woudl do the same if I output 480i from my HD box. I will give this a try and report my finding here.

The manual states that the iSync does not support 480i input via HDMI or component. However, it does accept 480i from my HD satillite box component. I've only tested the 480i HDMI output from the Oppo DVD player and this resulted in a "not supported" on the front panel input indicator. I assumed it woudl do the same if I output 480i from my HD box. I will give this a try and report my finding here.

There was a discussion about the supported resolutions earlier in the thread. The newer manual on the website states that 480i is supported on both Component Video and HDMI. Check page 8 of the manual at this link - http://www.keydigital.com/documents/iSync_UserManual_11.06.pdf

PS: Great first hand info. Keep it coming. I am currently debating between ISync and Lumagen HDP. This info helps me to decide on the VP to buy.

There was a discussion about the supported resolutions earlier in the thread. The newer manual on the website states that 480i is supported on both Component Video and HDMI. Check page 8 of the manual at this link - http://www.keydigital.com/documents/iSync_UserManual_11.06.pdf

PS: Great first hand info. Keep it coming. I am currently debating between ISync and Lumagen HDP. This info helps me to decide on the VP to buy.

The on-line manual does indicate that 480i input is supported for both HDMI and component, but I tried the HDMI output from the Oppo digital DVD player again and I still get th "not supported" indication. Yet I am able to get 480i to input from component video. I would be nice to use a digital HDMI 480i signal from DVD player, but it's not working for me yet 480P, 720P and 1080i all work via HDMI.

iSync HD 480i from DVD player;

I was able to output 480i from a DVD player to the iSync via a component video connection. HDMI input at 480i does not seem to be supported or at least I was not able to get the iSync to accept a 480i HDMI signal from my Oppo 970 DVD player. The Mission Impossible III sequences reviewed previously via HDMI at 1080i were almost as good on this film-based DVD programming when allowing the iSync to do all the scaling and deinterlacing with a raw 480i analog signal. This was equally true using my Pioneer Elite Universal SACD/DVD-A player. Now I will likely be able to move one of these players out of my media room rack and use it with another TV in different room. Efficiency in home Theater- now that's a novel concept.

I did identify several scenes where moire is evident (on venetian blinds in one scene and a large run of steps in another scene), that thus far no combination of input resolutions between the Oppo Digital DVD player (which uses the Genesis/Faradouja chip) or the iSync (with Key Digital proprietary algorithm) would fix. I don't know if this is a function of the processors or perhaps something in the programming itself. It would be interesting to know if one of the state-of-the-art video processors that do a trillion computations a second would be any better with regard to these tricky sequences with lots of horizontal lines packed tightly together.

Tomorrow night I'll look at SD and HD from the satellite box connected to the iSync via HDMI and see if it can outperform what was seen the other night from these sources via component video. Theoretically, the all digital signal should provide best performance and this may be the source of the subtle difference in what I observed here between 1080i HDMI and the 480i analog signal with DVD film-based material (i.e. digital having a slight edge). We'll see.

Randomcreek (or others with this unit),

I received the iSync PRO this week and am encountering serious issues with this unit in my theater environment. Of the several problems, the biggest is related to 1080i output and apparent synchronization loss of the signal on both my Mitsubishi WS55413 CRT RP and Sony VPL-400Q LCD projectors. None of the problems exist with the iSync Pro out of the signal path.

Before I go on, let me say that I have spoken directly with Key Digital tech support (very friendly and interested in understanding and trying to resolve the problem), and the problems I am encountering are certainly not expected behavior. They have suggested getting a replacement unit so they can look at my unit (suggesting there is probably a faulty component). I will be contacting DigitalConnection today.

I am using component hookups only on my Pioneer Elite Universal SACD/DVD-A DV-45A. I am also using the Terminator 2 DVD as a test disk. It may be that this DVD creates situations that stressess the circuitry in the iSync Pro.

Here's the problem and maybe some of you can test this too.

1) Set the output from the DVD player to the iSync Pro as 480i (480p exhibits the same problem).
2) Set the output from the iSync Pro to 1080i.
3) Set the iSync Pro to output Full Screen mode. This displays the movie in the standard 2.35:1 mode with black bars top and bottom.
4) Play opening scene where girl is on playground swing and the screen fills to bright white light.

In my setup, both display units lose signal sync and the screen either goes blank or scrolls partially upwards - kind of like tracking problems on VCR playback. Play the next chapter where the humans battle the terminators. Very dark battle scene with lots of action and bright white explosions. I see multiple occurrences of signal breakup and loss. Another example is when young Conner is riding his motorcycle (with buddy on back) through the white concrete waterway in LA.

Throughout the movie, there is also frequent loss of sync and occurrences where the top 1/10th portion of the movie image is skewed horizontally - primarily again where bright scenes exist. When Robert Patrick rolls up in his police car at the house looking for Conner, and the bright white window blinds scene when he subsequently approaches the door to the house - are a couple examples.

Two followup points - setting the iSync Pro to output 480i or 480p instead of 1080i greatly reduces the frequency of signal loss (but it still happens) - but if I set the iSync Pro to Vertical Zoom the output (essentially expanding the image for constant height setup removing the black bars), the problem is greatly reduced from non-existant (480i/p) to occassionally with 1080i. I'm wondering if it has to do with the signal transition between the black bar masking area and the image itself.

I figure that it's worth a gamble for $700, as there isn't anything with similar features (especially the 1080 deinterlacing) for less than twice that price. Besides, if it doesn't pan out, DVDO gives $600 trade-in credit for the iSync Pro according to their website, so there's not too much loss of investment if one upgrades to a DVDO product in the future.

Dennis
I researched this a bit and yes, the competitive upgrade exists, but it's applied to MSRP price on the DVDO website. I've seen authorized online retailers provide almost similar savings without the competitive upgrade - therefore you'd be spending $700 more than you need to for a DVDO unit if the iSync doesn't work out - if that's what you really want.

But if the iSync works out for you - it's a heck of a deal.

I researched this a bit and yes, the competitive upgrade exists, but it's applied to MSRP price on the DVDO website. I've seen authorized online retailers provide almost similar savings without the competitive upgrade - therefore you'd be spending $700 more than you need to for a DVDO unit if the iSync doesn't work out - if that's what you really want.

But if the iSync works out for you - it's a heck of a deal.


How does one find out what price an authorized retailer is willing to sell for vs. what they can advertise it for? Do you call or e-mail to negotiate the price? The DVDO agreement with their authorized retailers (according to DVDO's website) states that the VP20 cannot be advertised for less than $1499. Retailers are free to sell for whatever price they choose, but they can't advertise their price below $1499. Unauthorized retailers, of course, set their own prices. I'm curious b/c I'm new to the HT world and "how things work".

Dennis

Dennis, you've seen what I've seen. I just visited the authorized reseller web pages to see their prices.

My point was only that if you can get it for $1499 through a reseller, or $1399 through DVDO by supplying them with an iSync unit that you pony'd up $700 for - that's a lot to pay if you wanted the DVDO from the beginning.

Dennis, you've seen what I've seen. I just visited the authorized reseller web pages to see their prices.

My point was only that if you can get it for $1499 through a reseller, or $1399 through DVDO by supplying them with an iSync unit that you pony'd up $700 for - that's a lot to pay if you wanted the DVDO from the beginning.

Certainly, if I was going to go DVDO all along, getting the iSync would be a waste of time/money. I was hoping that the iSync would provide close-to-VP20 performance at less than half the cost. Since the Digital Connection deal doesn't allow returning the iSync for a refund, I was initially a little skeptical about forking over the money for a VP that has very little info/discussion on it. My comment on the DVDO trade-in program was meant to point out that, if the iSync doesn't pan out, then my investment in it isn't totally lost because I can use it to decrease the cost of the VP20.

BTW, the DVDO website sells the VP20 for $1699, so with the iSync Pro trade-in, that'd be only $1099, vs $1499 from an authorized dealer. The difference is a decent chunk of change.

Dennis

For those who have the iSync Pro, I was wondering if it upconverts analog video S-video and component) to HDMI, Or does it only upconvert analog video (S-video) to component video? In other words, if I have both component and HDMI sources, can I run just an HDMI cable to my display, or will I need to run both component and HDMI cables? The manual doesn't seem to say anything about this at all.

Dennis

Yes, this unit transcodes analog and digital signals. Any connection in and any connection out.

I was hoping that the iSync would provide close-to-VP20 performance at less than half the cost. From everything I've seen and read this unit will outperform the VP20 (without the Precision Deinterlacing card add-on) with SD material and substantially outperform any version of the VP20 with HD material.

At this price, this is a no-brainer. See

http://hometheatermag.com/hookmeup/706hook/

From everything I've seen and read this unit will outperform the VP20 (without the Precision Deinterlacing card add-on) with SD material and substantially outperform any version of the VP20 with HD material.

At this price, this is a no-brainer. See

http://hometheatermag.com/hookmeup/706hook/


Yup, I've got one on the way. Couldn't pass up on this deal, even though I'm still a few months away from buying the projector to pair with the VP. :-)

Actually, Tom, you were the one who made me aware that the iSync was more than just a switcher/scaler. The unit's manual and Key Digital's website make so little mention of the deinterlacing capabilities that I had initially dismissed the Power Buy. It was only after I read one of your comments in another thread about 1080i deinterlacing, that I gave the unit a second look and read whatever I could find about it (which didn't take very long at all). If it performs comparably to the VP20, then I'll be quite pleased. Thanks.

Dennis

2) Set the output from the iSync Pro to 1080i.
I'm just curious why you would buy a nice external deinterlacer and then NOT use its deinterlacing capabilities? To take advantage of this unit's abilities you should really output at least 720p, which virtually all HDTVs will accept.

I'm just curious why you would buy a nice external deinterlacer and then NOT use its deinterlacing capabilities? To take advantage of this unit's abilities you should really output at least 720p, which virtually all HDTVs will accept.
Would if I could. Neither my Mits RP CRT or Sony accept 720p.

I'm planning for the future though (and snagging deals when they surface). With the next crop of projectors I'll likely find a replacement for the Sony. In addition, I am looking at this unit for CH projection and its switching capabilities.

Everyone's experience with this unit seems positive - except for mine at the moment. I'm hoping the replacement will net different results.

Neither my Mits RP CRT or Sony accept 720p.Gee, that's really unusual.

Thisd processor was compared to the VP20 (or VP30?) and another processor in HT Magazine. They did not provide much detail but favored the Isync.

Thisd processor was compared to the VP20 (or VP30?) and another processor in HT Magazine. They did not provide much detail but favored the Isync.

As Tom pointed out it was reviewed without the precision deinterlacing card option installed. Where I'll differ from him though is offering an opinion on a unit I never saw myself for the sake of taking yet another jab at DVDO.

Key Digital makes decent products and unlike so many others that have come and gone from the market, they have been around forever. Just make sure the return policy is solid and give the thing a try. If you get it from Digital Connection I'd bet Kei will take good care of you should you find you do not like the thing.

Nothing beats a good return policy. There are so many technical reviews (sometimes objective) and subjective opinions of products these days that in-home auditioning is a must.

Noticed in the isync manual it lists 1920x1080 sp[24hz] as an available output . What is it and is it of any use to us? jeff melb australia

Randomcreek (or others with this unit),

I received the iSync PRO this week and am encountering serious issues . . . .
1) Set the output from the DVD player to the iSync Pro as 480i (480p exhibits the same problem).
2) Set the output from the iSync Pro to 1080i.
3) Set the iSync Pro to output Full Screen mode. This displays the movie in the standard 2.35:1 mode with black bars top and bottom.
4) Play opening scene where girl is on playground swing and the screen fills to bright white light.

In my setup, both display units lose signal sync and the screen either goes blank or scrolls partially upwards - . . . . ..

Keith- I have a Pioneer Elite universal player as well (DV-45a) hooked up via component video connections and I reviewed DVD MI III as test material output through the iSynch HD out to my display's 1080P native resolution. It did a nice job scaling and deinterlacing this signal and was just a little bit softer than using a digital signal from my Oppo player (output of DVD player set at 1080i). To your specific question, I did what you suggested above (although I don't have T2 as test material) and I had no problems sending 1080i to my set. You may have a specific issue with your unit. Have you fed your TV a 1080i signal from other sources without any problems?

iSync HD SD and HD via HDMI:

Last night I was able to hook up my satellite box via HDMI to the iSync. Previously I was using component connection from satellite to iSync and HDMI from the iSync to the 1080P input of my display (Sony A2000 SXRD) With component I determined the iSync makes a big difference in my set up (SD was much sharper and annoying video noise and blurring in some HD sports broadcasts was reduced significantly).

Last night I watched the over-the-air (uncompressed) Monday Night Football Clip I recorded previously as test material and also an ESPN2 (HD lite, i.e. highly compressed) college football game. The same improvements observed with the component signal were evident. I also was able to explore the settngs on the iSync and noticed that the sharpness setting (for digital picture/edge enhancement) is unlike any sharpness control on TVs that I'm accustomed to. Increasing the sharpness on the iSync actually was able to improved the apparent sharpness of SD and HD lite programming more still without introducing any halo effects that I could see in the picture. All-in-all I'm very pleased with the iSync with everyday satellite programming (SD and HD) and DVD movies. It also does a good job with DVD video-based material and laser disks adding a sharpenss coming closer to HD than I've ever seen previously never having used an external video processor before getting the iSync last Wednesday. Based on my experience thus far, from here on out I will stick with using a pure digital signal from source to display with the isync placed firmly and permanently in the middle outputting 1080p. Next up will be to look at DVD test patterns. . . . .

You may have a specific issue with your unit. Have you fed your TV a 1080i signal from other sources without any problems?
Thanks for trying the test.

I have an LG LSS-3200A HDTV DirecTV receiver and XBox 360 both sending 1080i to the Mits and Sony projector with never any glitches. The Mits was calibrated for HD and the image is stunning. Simply adding the iSync Pro into the mix produced display errors even with HDTV (1080i in/1080i out). I would occassionally lose sync just watching ESPN HD SportsCenter - the situation again seemed related to a bright screen - and when they played a trailer (letterbox image) for Gears of War - I lost sync on that signal at one point.

I will say that when the problem wasn't there (which is a majority of the time), the DVD image (480i in/1080i out) looks great. HDTV however seemed to get some graininess and an increase in red into the picture.

I did everything I could to minimize the test scenario variables, and always adding the iSync into the path produced errors. The opinion at the moment is that some fault exists with the unit. It has gone back and I'm getting a replacement.

has anyone used this processor with a 2.35:1 constant height setup. I am interested in using this projector in conjunction with a lens and an AE-900.

thanks
Itai

I hooked up the Isync Pro to my oppo 971 and optoma H77. Via component it was able to accept 480i and output 480i through HDMI to the projector. Oppo 971 doesn't output 480i via DVI so i was not able to assess that, but it accepted 480p, 720p, 1080i and scales it to every resolution imaginable. It really does everything described in the owner's manual and the set up and operation is easy. The PQ, though, was less sharp and grainy and the dark level was elevated with loss of shadow detail, almost reminding me of the PQ of my old LCD projector. This is true of all combinations of resolutions. Oppo 970 without the Faruja chip would be a better player in this case.
BTY, my Isync Pro has a revised firmware 2.09

Well this doesn,t sound [look] good. Other professional reviews, ie home theater mag didn,t show any of these issues.

any comments from Key Digital? jeff . melbourne australia

Well this doesn,t sound [look] good. Other professional reviews, ie home theater mag didn,t show any of these issues.From my experience, Home Theater magazine is hardly the paragon of video equipment review sources. What I've seen from them in the past is highly subjective reviews which never twice used the same evaluation criteria. It doesn't surprise me a bit that their review could have missed a lot of key issues (no pun intended :D ), glossed over problems, or overlooked interesting or useful features which might work very well. I cancelled my subscription a long time ago based on lack of meaningful content.

- Dale Adams

Dale,

I agree with your comments on HT, but this review was by Gary Merson, whom I'd put in a different class than their current reviewers.

I'm scratching my head at your having discredited a review that was favorable to the ISync and not addressed the poor results of a user.

Maybe it is just that other video processors/displays do some basic noise reduction inspite of DNR being turned off whereas ISync doesn't do any at all thereby just magnifying the compression noise & artifacts. In my setup with good clean sources such as DVD & HD-DVD it really shines whereas with satellite it shows all its warts. I agree that Gary Merson is in a whole different class when it comes to video reviews.

I'm scratching my head at your having discredited a review that was favorable to the ISync and not addressed the poor results of a user.I've never actually seen or used an ISync Pro, so I could hardly provide useful feedback on a user's specific problems with a product I've never seen. I have, however, seen and read Home Theater magazine and can provide feedback on that.

- Dale Adams

Noah,

Dale is just stating his opinion about the magazine, not about the product.

Just got this email from Doug Molloy of Key Digital:

The iSync Pro does support 480i on its HDMI and component inputs. Please check to see if the unit has the latest firmware which is 2.09. This can be found on our web site where the iSync Pro is located under firmware/ control modules.



Doug Molloy

Senior Technical Specialist

My bad, when I saw ABT in Dale's sig I thought "VP mfgr" and mistakenly connected him with KD.

I hooked up the Isync Pro to my oppo 971 and optoma H77. Via component it was able to accept 480i and output 480i through HDMI to the projector. Oppo 971 doesn't output 480i via DVI so i was not able to assess that, but it accepted 480p, 720p, 1080i and scales it to every resolution imaginable. It really does everything described in the owner's manual and the set up and operation is easy. The PQ, though, was less sharp and grainy and the dark level was elevated with loss of shadow detail, almost reminding me of the PQ of my old LCD projector. This is true of all combinations of resolutions. Oppo 970 without the Faruja chip would be a better player in this case.
BTY, my Isync Pro has a revised firmware 2.09


I received mine last Thursday and have done a lot of testing over the weekend and I can confirm + add the following issues with the Isync Pro:

1. Signal over HDMI and Component obtains a grainy net of noise pulled out over the entire screen no matter what the source is (STB, DVD, Digital mediacenter). This is especially noticeable with a dark scene as a background. Component is worse than HDMI.

2. Deinterlacing of 1080i film input produces very noticeable scanlines during rapid movements making it useless for handling 1080i source material. This is true no matter what progressive resolution I output.

3. Sync problems when switching between color input/output, resolution input & input sources. Often you have to toggle the switch to get the Isync in sync (haha) with the new resolution/color/input.


Above has only been tested with output resolution set to 576p, 720p & 1080i respectively as my 50 inch 1366x768 plasma does not do native resolution.

1. Test scenario to eliminate apparent signal noise has been:

Cable length max. 1.5 meter TV<->Isync<->source in good quality. Different setups with all analogue or digital cables plus mixed in any combination possible (analogue input worst). Removal of all other connected cables but input/output.
Isolation of the Isync from all other electrical cables & equipment.
Noise is present at any resolution and is seen like an overlay in the picture.
Bypassing the Isync is noise free with any of the sources tested.

2. Deinterlacing of 1080i film based sources has been tested with both Component and HDMI with same results. Deinterlacing has been tested with output res. 576p & 720p with same results. 1080i film has also been tested from both DVD and HD-STB @ both 50 & 60 Hz.
Bypassing the Isync and letting the TV deinterlace 1080i film produces zero scanlines or other artefacts during rapid movement.

3. Sync problems have been discovered during normal switch operation and quickly become an annoying factor in the daily use of the Isync.

Btw. Firmware 2.09.


PLUSSES: Scaling and deinterlacing of SD material is superior to the VP in my Philips 50PF9967D (I'm in Europe) so I definitely think it's a good value to the price offered in the powerbuy.

Conclusion: It's a good SD-video processor for people in the low-cost range, but the Isync is not for HD. At least IMHO...

IMO I have found that ISync Pro is good mainly for converting 1080i/720p to 1080p. Conversion to any other resolution results in softening of picture & some artifacts. I have tested it on my 720p pj & 1080p Samsung dlp.

Conclusion: It's a good SD-video processor for people in the low-cost range, but the Isync is not for HD.
IMO I have found that ISync Pro is good mainly for converting 1080i/720p to 1080p.
Obviously, people are having different, indeed opposite, experiences. I wonder if this has to do with differences between PAL and NTSC.

Obviously, people are having different, indeed opposite, experiences. I wonder if this has to do with differences between PAL and NTSC.

No. I am in the US. The difference between my setup and Randomcreeks' is that he uses Oppo 970 and I use Oppo 971, which utilizes the Faroudja chip. In a few days I will have the 970 then we will see if my suspicion is correct.

After missing out on a VP30 for $1K on Thanksgiving (thanks to dial-up at the mother in-law's house), I ended up ordering one of these from Digital Connection and it should be here on Friday. I'll be hooking up a DirecTV HR10-250 HD box via HDMI, an Onkyo SP-800 DVD player via component, and eventually a PS3 for Blu-ray playback via HDMI. Output will be via HDMI to a Vizio 50" plasma.

Does anyone have any tips as far as input/output resolution on the HDMI side of things? Any other setup tips?

Thanks,
pjdavep

No. I am in the US.I was referring to nstelmach and vinodk's posts that reported opposite results with HD performance.

After missing out on a VP30 for $1K on Thanksgiving (thanks to dial-up at the mother in-law's house), I ended up ordering one of these from Digital Connection and it should be here on Friday.

How was a VP30 available for $1K? From DVDO's website, AVS, or elsewhere?

The iSync sound like it might be what I'm looking for, but I'm hoping that somebody who has some experience with it can answer a few questions, and give my an honest opinion. I'm fairly new to video processing, so please bear with me...

I just got a new 50" plasma TV and discovered that my Satellite-Tivo boxes really look bad when expanded out to that big of a picture. I posted a few places for suggestions, and was pointed to the VP20+102, and to the iSync.

The sat boxes are SD, and have S-Video out, the TV is 720p native.

Do you guys think this would make a significant difference in PQ, or should I keep saving and get a DVDO unit? I'm a little hesitant to spend more on a video processor than I did on the TV, but that may just be because I'm still new to this.

And before you suggest that I move up to HD, I've looked into doing that as well, but the HD boxes that I'd be getting would cost about 1500 to replace the two SD boxes that I have now. I'd rather keep what I've got and go HD when I move in a few years, and redo the whole setup from the ground up.

Right now, the powerbuy just seems like too good of a deal to be true. I'm just worried that it won't help my situation.

thanks
-Jeff

I was referring to nstelmach and vinodk's posts that reported opposite results with HD performance.

Just for the record:

Both my dvd and STB cab output @ 60Hz, and my TV can also handle 60 Hz input. I tested deinterlacing @ both 50 & 60 Hz with same results.

If nobody else can see these obvious horizontal lines during rapid movements, then I'm starting to suspect I have a faulty unit.

Btw. the lines I'm refering to only appears in the part of the picture thats in motion.

I could try to take some hi-res pictures to show the problem, but I'm not sure what the attachment limitations are with the amount of post I have...

How was a VP30 available for $1K? From DVDO's website, AVS, or elsewhere?

Some guy had brand new one on eBay as a buy-it-now for 2K, but with bidding starting at 1K and no reserve. No one seemed to notice. It ended on Thanksgiving day and I went to bid at the last minute, but the dial-up connection was soooo slow that I couldn't even get the bid in. I was quite pissed. He immediately relisted as a 1 day auction, starting at $500 and it ended up going to just over $1200.

Later,
pjdavep

Some guy had brand new one on eBay as a buy-it-now for 2K, but with bidding starting at 1K and no reserve. No one seemed to notice. It ended on Thanksgiving day and I went to bid at the last minute, but the dial-up connection was soooo slow that I couldn't even get the bid in. I was quite pissed. He immediately relisted as a 1 day auction, starting at $500 and it ended up going to just over $1200.

Later,
pjdavep

www.auctionsniper.com

f nobody else can see these obvious horizontal lines during rapid movements, then I'm starting to suspect I have a faulty unit.

Btw. the lines I'm refering to only appears in the part of the picture thats in motion.Yes, given the rather gross and obvious artifacts that you report, I would think you have a defective unit. I would contact Key Digital for a repair or replacement.

Can those who already have the iSync Pro comment on whether it applies the appropriate audio delay to compensate for the (presumed) delay with video processing? Or does the user have to add it manually via the receiver or pre/pro?

I am thinking that when I get my iSync, I'll try both the HDMI output and the component/H/V sync output to my Vizio and go with whichever looks best.

Will I just need this cable to go from the iSync analog out to the computer VGA/RGB port on my Vizio?
http://www.digitalconnection.com/products/cables/eehd5r.asp

Thanks,
pjdavep

That'll work.

Can those who already have the iSync Pro comment on whether it applies the appropriate audio delay to compensate for the (presumed) delay with video processing? Or does the user have to add it manually via the receiver or pre/pro?

The audio through both coaxial & optical is in perfect sync so no need for adjustments.

Kei, do I contact Key Digital or your support staff about the problems I have with my unit?

Btw. I just bought a Clean Power AC unit today to rule out electrical noise, but no change so I'm running out of options to try. I actually disconnected the Isync earlier today because I get a cleaner picture connecting directly to the TV, but I miss the nice deinterlacer in the Isync.

The audio through both coaxial & optical is in perfect sync so no need for adjustments.

Just to confirm, you have your audio running thru the ISync, and not straight to the receiver?

Thanks,
pjdavep

No. I am in the US. The difference between my setup and Randomcreeks' is that he uses Oppo 970 and I use Oppo 971, which utilizes the Faroudja chip. In a few days I will have the 970 then we will see if my suspicion is correct.

Sorry I put the wrong model number in my post. I use the Oppo 971 with the Faroudja chip also for all my DVD tests.

[QUOTE=nstelmach]Just for the record:



If nobody else can see these obvious horizontal lines during rapid movements, then I'm starting to suspect I have a faulty unit.

I see the same artifact but only when the picture is zoomed (either v or h/v). To me they are not lines but more like the picture is sliced/overlaps horizontally. It comes in quick flashes once very 5-10 secs.

New to the forum, I am setting up my dedicated HT on a budget, I have Optoma HD70 projector and since I was planning on using it with Upconverting DVD Player (Oppo or Sony) and Comcast HD /SD Cable over HDMI (HD8300DVR) only, I was thinking I would upgrade my Onkyo SR601 with the 804 or Yamaha 2700 AV receiver, to get the switching and converting in the receiver so I can run a single HDMI cable to the projector - now I'm thinking that I would probably get better video across the board if I just stuck with what I have (Progressive DVD and Onkyo 601 receiver) and used the Video Processor to handle all the conversion and switching - and for the price, I would probably end up spending less than switching out my receiver and DVD player -

My Projector is 720P and can accept native (no scaling) -

Am I missing something here or is this a better way to go - I plan on watching mostly DVD and HD Broadcast in the HT - it would be nice to have decent SD capabilities as well -

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks

Sorry I put the wrong model number in my post. I use the Oppo 971 with the Faroudja chip also for all my DVD tests.

Yep, everything goes through the Isync...

[QUOTE=nstelmach]Just for the record:



If nobody else can see these obvious horizontal lines during rapid movements, then I'm starting to suspect I have a faulty unit.

I see the same artifact but only when the picture is zoomed (either v or h/v). To me they are not lines but more like the picture is sliced/overlaps horizontally. It comes in quick flashes once very 5-10 secs.

I don't think we are talking about the same then. The lines I'm refering to are motion artifacts and if you input native 1080i material and output 720p (sorry I can't say for 1080p out) the lines are very noticable and the picture is unwatchable as HDTV. Also the lines are only in the part of the picture that is in motion.
With upscaled SD (to 1080i) material the lines are also there, but they're thinner and you don't see them as clearly.

Anyway my biggest concern is the noise introduced in the picture as described earlier as I mainly bought the Isync for SD scaling and deinterlacing.

New to the forum, I am setting up my dedicated HT on a budget, I have Optoma HD70 projector and since I was planning on using it with Upconverting DVD Player (Oppo or Sony) and Comcast HD /SD Cable over HDMI (HD8300DVR) only, I was thinking I would upgrade my Onkyo SR601 with the 804 or Yamaha 2700 AV receiver, to get the switching and converting in the receiver so I can run a single HDMI cable to the projector - now I'm thinking that I would probably get better video across the board if I just stuck with what I have (Progressive DVD and Onkyo 601 receiver) and used the Video Processor to handle all the conversion and switching - and for the price, I would probably end up spending less than switching out my receiver and DVD player -

My Projector is 720P and can accept native (no scaling) -

Am I missing something here or is this a better way to go - I plan on watching mostly DVD and HD Broadcast in the HT - it would be nice to have decent SD capabilities as well -

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks

Stephan, I've come to the same conclusion in putting together my HT with budget constraints. The price for the iSync Pro and a $400-$500 receiver (I need to upgrade my receiver) together still is comparable to the prices for receivers that are able to scale 480 to 720/1080. Hopefully, the picture quality is better with the iSync than with those receivers. So if you don't need to upgrade your receiver, you'll come out ahead pricewise.

Progressive scan DVD players do their own deinterlacing from 480i to 480p, but if you have a video processor, you want the VP to be doing the deinterlacing rather than the DVD player. Presumably, the more expensive VP has better algorithms or hardware for deinterlacing than the DVD player. You would need to check to see if your DVD player can bypass its deinterlacing and output a 480i signal to the VP, or get a DVD player that does so (like the Oppo 970).

[QUOTE=schen]

I don't think we are talking about the same then. The lines I'm refering to are motion artifacts and if you input native 1080i material and output 720p (sorry I can't say for 1080p out) the lines are very noticable and the picture is unwatchable as HDTV. Also the lines are only in the part of the picture that is in motion.
With upscaled SD (to 1080i) material the lines are also there, but they're thinner and you don't see them as clearly.

Anyway my biggest concern is the noise introduced in the picture as described earlier as I mainly bought the Isync for SD scaling and deinterlacing.

I agree.
My Oppo 970 arrived today and I used it to feed 1080i over HDMI to iSync and output 720p to my projector. The picture came out clean without any artifact. I used to have a lot of horizontal artifacts in the zoomed picture using Oppo 791. Now I don't see any. The difference is the Mediatek chip versus the Faroudja.
I believe the Faroudja chip, with all its complicated function which I cannot (or bother to) name, softens the picture and introduces artifacts when used in conjunction with the iSync. I am not sure what dvd player you use, but it may be worthwhile to try a different one.

Also, for those interested, my iSync definitely support 480i over HDMI both in and out.

Stephan, I've come to the same conclusion in putting together my HT with budget constraints. The price for the iSync Pro and a $400-$500 receiver (I need to upgrade my receiver) together still is comparable to the prices for receivers that are able to scale 480 to 720/1080. Hopefully, the picture quality is better with the iSync than with those receivers. So if you don't need to upgrade your receiver, you'll come out ahead pricewise.

Progressive scan DVD players do their own deinterlacing from 480i to 480p, but if you have a video processor, you want the VP to be doing the deinterlacing rather than the DVD player. Presumably, the more expensive VP has better algorithms or hardware for deinterlacing than the DVD player. You would need to check to see if your DVD player can bypass its deinterlacing and output a 480i signal to the VP, or get a DVD player that does so (like the Oppo 970).

The other upside to getting an outboard VP is that if you do use the iSync to switch all your video, it allows you to adjust the picture, saturation, hue, brightness, and sharpness per input allowing a good deal more control over what goes to your TV that I don't think those upscaling receivers will do. If you go with an upscaling DVD player it will only processes DVDs and not other sources so that approach is not nearly as versatile. One other consideration however, based on my comparison of component connection to iSync from standard DVD player (pioneer elite dv45a) with using a digital output from my Oppo 971, I think you would still want to get a DVD player that had an HDMI (or DVI) output (not just component) because there is a visible improvement with an all digital signal (source --> iSync --> TV) at least in my set-up. This is probably due to the need for one less digital to analog conversion. I'm also thinking that there may be some benefit in having an upscaling player which uses one algorithm (e.g. faradouja) to get DVDs to 1080i and a VP that uses a different one (Key Digital) to go from 1080i --> 1080p as evidenced by the extremely sharp AVIA sharpness test pattern I'm getting with the combination of the Oppo and the iSync in sequence. Also, and I don't know if anyone else is thinking about this, but since the iSynce does such a nice job with 1080i -->1080P there are a few bucks to be saved when buying a HD DVD or BlueRay player down the road since you will not need to buy a more expensive 1080P output unit to get best picture (i.e. 1080i output for your HD diskplayer will work fine) :)

Also, my iSync also supports 480i input over HDMI from my satillite box, but still for some reason not from my oppo 971. It doesn't matter however since I'm getting best picture feeding the iSync 1080i (from oppo DVD player and satillite box) and letting the iSync do 1080i --> 1080P deinterlacing.

The other upside to getting an outboard VP is that if you do use the iSync to switch all your video, it allows you to adjust the picture, saturation, hue, brightness, and sharpness per input allowing a good deal more control over what goes to your TV that I don't think those upscaling receivers will do. If you go with an upscaling DVD player it will only processes DVDs and not other sources so that approach is not nearly as versatile. One other consideration however, based on my comparison of component connection to iSync from standard DVD player (pioneer elite dv45a) with using a digital output from my Oppo 971, I think you would still want to get a DVD player that had an HDMI (or DVI) output (not just component) because there is a visible improvement with an all digital signal (source --> iSync --> TV) at least in my set-up. This is probably due to the need for one less digital to analog conversion. I'm also thinking that there may be some benefit in having an upscaling player which uses one algorithm (e.g. faradouja) to get DVDs to 1080i and a VP that uses a different one (Key Digital) to go from 1080i --> 1080p as evidenced by the extremely sharp AVIA sharpness test pattern I'm getting with the combination of the Oppo and the iSync in sequence. Also, and I don't know if anyone else is thinking about this, but since the iSynce does such a nice job with 1080i -->1080P there are a few bucks to be saved when buying a HD DVD or BlueRay player down the road since you will not need to buy a more expensive 1080P output unit to get best picture (i.e. 1080i output for your HD diskplayer will work fine) :)

Also, my iSync also supports 480i input over HDMI from my satillite box, but still for some reason not from my oppo 971. It doesn't matter however since I'm getting best picture feeding the iSync 1080i (from oppo DVD player and satillite box) and letting the iSync do 1080i --> 1080P deinterlacing.


It is interesting that the Oppo971 / iSync combination did not work well for me. I was seeing a lot of horizontal artifacts in the v stretch mode, which defeats the whole purpose of buying the vp in my case. Oppo970, without the Faroudja, took the problem away. BTW, Oppo 971 doesn't output 480i over HDMI.

It is interesting that the Oppo971 / iSync combination did not work well for me. I was seeing a lot of horizontal artifacts in the v stretch mode, which defeats the whole purpose of buying the vp in my case. Oppo970, without the Faroudja, took the problem away. BTW, Oppo 971 doesn't output 480i over HDMI.

I couldn't find the manual so wasn't able to check this. Thanks. I wonder why they didn't provide this output?

I couldn't find the manual so wasn't able to check this. Thanks. I wonder why they didn't provide this output?

Most displays don't accept 480i over HDMI, so that's probably the reason.

Oppo 971 only has DVI output, not HDMI. Maybe thats why it outputs only 480p & up.

How is the vertical stretch option with the isync? For example, stretching a 2:35:1 to fill a 16:9 screen...is there a lot of distortion, if any?

Thanks

How is the vertical stretch option with the isync? For example, stretching a 2:35:1 to fill a 16:9 screen...is there a lot of distortion, if any?

Thanks


Very good, no distortion and no artifacts, provided that you feed it 480i over HDMI. Inputing 1080i is also fine. I still see occasional horizontal scan lines when feeding it 720p and outputing 720p over HDMI.
As far as Isync improving image quality, I don't think so, at least not to the extend that my eyes can detect. But its ability to do 480i input and output coupled with artifact-free v stretch makes worth every penny to me as my next projector would have a decent internal scaler and I plan to use and HE lense with it.

How is the vertical stretch option with the isync? For example, stretching a 2:35:1 to fill a 16:9 screen...is there a lot of distortion, if any?

Thanks

Stretching a 2.35:1 DVD image to fill the screen is not something I like to do. Ii prefer to see my circles as round shapes not ovals. But as a test with the iSync in my set-up the way it is (Oppo player outputting 1080i via DVI --> iSynch --> 1080p --> Sony A2000 SXRD via HDMI) does not show scan lines artifacts. If I send 720p from Oppo --> iSync --> 1080p and stretch usind the iSynch there are scan line artifacts (??), but if I use my TV to stretch the same signal it's fine. So I agree with you the distortion you describe does exist , but it's a problem with the incoming 720p signal from the Oppo and not the iSynch- the same thing does not happen if I send the iSynch 720p from my satillite box and use the iSynch to stretch the picture.

great info. thanks guys.

Stretching a 2.35:1 DVD image to fill the screen is not something I like to do. Ii prefer to see my circles as round shapes not ovals. But as a test with the iSync in my set-up the way it is (Oppo player outputting 1080i via DVI --> iSynch --> 1080p --> Sony A2000 SXRD via HDMI) does not show scan lines artifacts. If I send 720p from Oppo --> iSync --> 1080p and stretch usind the iSynch there are scan line artifacts (??), but if I use my TV to stretch the same signal it's fine. So I agree with you the distortion you describe does exist , but it's a problem with the incoming 720p signal from the Oppo and not the iSynch- the same thing does not happen if I send the iSynch 720p from my satillite box and use the iSynch to stretch the picture.

Very strange indeed, as I get the most scan lines artifacts with 1080i input. I did however discover that it's minimal if I input 1080i @ 60 Hz instead, this makes no sense to me...?

I just got my Isync and wondered how you folks would set it for the HC3000 front projector. The projector is 720p native and has an auto function for sync but seems to do better when I set the sync to 720p and handle auto syncing through the Isync.

I have the DirecTV HD receiver set on "all resolutions" and "native." However, when I change the channel to an SD channel, which should be 480i, the Isync LCD panel says the input is 480p. Is the HD Box converting it from 480i to 480p and if so, do I need to force it to go into 480i to allow the Isync to bypass the HD Box's converter?

I have the DirecTV HD receiver set on "all resolutions" and "native." However, when I change the channel to an SD channel, which should be 480i, the Isync LCD panel says the input is 480p. Is the HD Box converting it from 480i to 480p and if so, do I need to force it to go into 480i to allow the Isync to bypass the HD Box's converter?

It sounds like your box doesn't truely send out native resolution when set to "native". I have a dishnetwork HD Recorder and all I can do is set the HDMI output to one setting. I believe that the iSync converts every thing to 1080P , then scales it to whatever output resolution you select.

You should try each output resolution with the material you watch most on your projector and see what give the best picture. For example I found that setting my Oppo digital to output 1080i and letting the iSync do one final deinterlacing gives a better picture versus sending a lower resolution signal from the Oppo DVD player (720P over HDMI or 480i over component).

Very strange indeed, as I get the most scan lines artifacts with 1080i input. I did however discover that it's minimal if I input 1080i @ 60 Hz instead, this makes no sense to me...?

Hmmm. i use 1080i input from both my HD box and oppo DVD player and I don't get any scan lines. The AVIA test pattern for sharpness is extremely sharp. Much more so than what I get with just the oppo DVD player. I would love to see what a 1080i HD DVD signal or test pattern looks like.

It sounds like your box doesn't truely send out native resolution when set to "native". I have a dishnetwork HD Recorder and all I can do is set the HDMI output to one setting. I believe that the iSync converts every thing to 1080P , then scales it to whatever output resolution you select.

You should try each output resolution with the material you watch most on your projector and see what give the best picture. For example I found that setting my Oppo digital to output 1080i and letting the iSync do one final deinterlacing gives a better picture versus sending a lower resolution signal from the Oppo DVD player (720P over HDMI or 480i over component).


Thanks for responding, Randomcreek. I'll do as you suggest tonight and see how it comes out. Thanks again! :)

Jack

For example I found that setting my Oppo digital to output 1080i and letting the iSync do one final deinterlacing gives a better picture versus sending a lower resolution signal from the Oppo DVD player (720P over HDMI or 480i over component).

This means that the integrated scaler in the Oppo is better than the scaler in the iSync. This is a true dissappointment since I baught the iSync mainly for scaling 480 and 576 sources to the native resolution of my screen (720). Is it true for everybody?

This means that the integrated scaler in the Oppo is better than the scaler in the iSync. This is a true dissappointment since I baught the iSync mainly for scaling 480 and 576 sources to the native resolution of my screen (720). Is it true for everybody?

Well, I guess it's true for me, too. I followed Randomcreek's advice and set my HD box to 720p. My HC3000U is 720p native. "Heroes" and "Studio 60" off of 480i NBC local channel looked great that way. Although both are 16:9, I used the Vert/Horz Zoom button to shrink the picture into a high quality SD picture. Normal 4:3 looked good as well with that Zoom button. Since I have the Panasonic S97S, I'll try it in 720p as well to see how that looks through the iSync.

Does anyone have a theory why the signal looks better going through the HD box set at 720p followed by the iSync set at 720p for a 720p native projector?

This means that the integrated scaler in the Oppo is better than the scaler in the iSync. This is a true dissappointment since I baught the iSync mainly for scaling 480 and 576 sources to the native resolution of my screen (720). Is it true for everybody?

I don't know because the iSync needs to be inline after the DVD player so you can't test it the other way around. Honestly, I think it's more an issue of using two different algorithms in sequence with the result being a superior picture quality.

Originally, I too planned to send the native resolution of DVD (and SD TV as well) directly to the iSync with the expectation that this would yield the best result because the iSync was the better VP. However, with DVD one thing I can't do with my set up is test a digital 480i signal straight through to the iSync. My oppo DVD player doesn't output 480i over digital connection and using anything that's not digital (from oppo or pioneer elite players) I tested produced a result that was not as good as what I was getting using digital connections. Likewise, with SD TV, setting the box output to 480i (even using the HDMI output) is no betterthan sending 720P or 1080i output to iSync.

This is counter to what experts have said should be the case, but again I think it's the dual algorithm outperforming any individual algorithm on it's own which makes some sense. So long as both algorithms are decent (and one is not horrible and reducing detail) it's seems possible that a synergistic effect would result.

To the customers who have purchased and tested the isync. If you were to do it all over again, would you still buy it?

To the customers who have purchased and tested the isync. If you were to do it all over again, would you still buy it?

Yes indeed! I'm getting a much sharper picture on my Sony A2000 SXRD TV with SD and DVD. Motion artifacts are greatly reduced with HD as well by letting the iSync do the processing of 1080i --> 1080P rather than the TV. The one thing it doesn't have that would be nice is adjustable noise reduction. I have to use my TV's noise reduction function and it's okay, but I'm certain if I had an external processor that had this function it would perform better.

Yes indeed! I'm getting a much sharper picture on my Sony A2000 SXRD TV with SD and DVD. Motion artifacts are greatly reduced with HD as well by letting the iSync do the processing of 1080i --> 1080P rather than the TV. The one thing it doesn't have that would be nice is adjustable noise reduction. I have to use my TV's noise reduction function and it's okay, but I'm certain if I had an external processor that had this function it would perform better.

I agree with Randomcreek. The Isync really cleaned up the SD signal so it became crystal clear on my very large projection screen. Before the Isync, SD was virtually unwatchable. Noise reduction doesn't seem to be a problem for me, so it isn't a factor. Since I paid about $900 for the unit, it was definitely worth the improvement. However, having AVSforum and members like Randomcreek definitely was icing on the cake because he helped me figure out the "native" problem with my HD box so I was able to improve the picture. Thus, having this forum in tandem with the unit made the purchase worthwhile.

So I started playing with my iSync last night, but didn't get too far.

I bought this cable to go RGB out of the iSync to the 15 pin port on my plasma:
http://www.digitalconnection.com/products/cables/eehd5r.asp

The red, green, and blue hookups were obvious, but since I wasn't positive which leads were the H or V sync, I guessed and tried it. The picture was very, very green, so I shut everything down and switched the H/V sync wires. The picture was then very pink. WTF? The iSync analog output was set to RGB instead of the "Y Cr Cb" (or Pr Pb) option. Despite the pinkish picture, I continued to mess with the settings. I tried the 1366x768 output, which is native resolution for my set and I got no picture with that setting.

Any ideas on what I did wrong?

Another thing I noticed is that the analog output doesn't seem to be active if there is a cable plugged into HDMI out...that's lame, though I understand why it works that way.

Later,
pjdavep

Which plasma do you have and does it have input options like some projectors to accept either component or RGB via the VGA port?

If the incoming HDMI signal is HDCP encrypted, I believe that the analog output has to be turned off.

Now with more owners for ISync Pro, maybe we should all lobby to Key Digital for 1080p input support & 1080p24 output option.

What about playing games. Do you forsee a problem with any lag associated with it?

I want to use this as a video hub, and then just have one wire sending all my feeds to the pj.

To the customers who have purchased and tested the isync. If you were to do it all over again, would you still buy it?

Sadly I would have to say, no...

I have disconnected mine mainly because it introduces some sort of interferens noise in the picture which I don't have going straight to the TV (yes, I do have mains noise filter installed). I do however suspect the unit is faulty because of these symptoms, but that said I still didn't see any noticable improvement over the TVs internal VP...

Which plasma do you have and does it have input options like some projectors to accept either component or RGB via the VGA port?

If the incoming HDMI signal is HDCP encrypted, I believe that the analog output has to be turned off.

Kei,

I have the Vizio P50HD and there is no optional input setting for the 15 pin port that I know of. This evening, I will be testing out component output of the iSync, along with the 15 pin input of my plasma using a laptop/VGA cable to try and determine the problem.

The HDMI input during my testing last night was a DirecTV HDR10-250...not sure about the show.

Later,
pjdavep

I am not able to test my 15 pin RGB input tonight, but I can confirm that my iSync unit does work properly using analog component output when configured in the iSync menu. So it's either my cable, the RGB mode of the iSync, or the RGB input of my plasma.

I proceeded to hook stuff up via the HDMI output and tweak with the settings. It seems that the horizontal/vertical "input position" causes quite a bit of distortion on the HDNet test patterns (visible jagged breaks in the middle circle), but the h/v size/position settings did allow me to account for my plasma's vertical stretch problem at higher resolutions. So far this is the only advantage for me until I get the RGB thing figured out. I did manage to get the iSync to 'freak out' and show a picture 5 times the normal size after I messed with all the horizontal/vertical picture adjustments for several minutes. One or two values were down to "-6 to -8" and once I went further the picture flashed a couple times and was then half chopped off and huge. I guess it could have been an HDMI handshake issue, but a reboot of the iSync fixed the issue.

Later,
pjdavep

Has anyone tried this processor on the output of an HD-A1 for HD-DVDs? I'm looking at maybe getting one of these to use solely to provide the vertical stretch necessary for a CIH 2.35 setup. I'm pretty sure I'm going to use my new HTPC setup for std DVDs (so it can do the stretch) so I would only need this unit for HD-DVDs.

I just received the Westinghouse LVM-37w3. I was thinking about getting this VP to get better SD and HD from the Westy's Genesis chipset. Would this do the trick for me? Any still available at the special price?

Thanks.

I just received the Westinghouse LVM-37w3. I was thinking about getting this VP to get better SD and HD from the Westy's Genesis chipset. Would this do the trick for me? Any still available at the special price?

Thanks.

Could be. You need to follow the link posted by Alan for the power buy to see. You should see how good the processing is in your TV is first. If you determine it is lacking in a way the iSync might help, then go for it. I think the price is nice for the v.processing power you get. It worked for my application (see above). Some other folks had varying opinions. Read the thread and decide for yourself. you won't find any more relevant information on this processor anywhere if it's not mentioned here. If you find anything else in your research, please post it here.

As far as the Westy's Genesis chipset goes, it may be good enough since it processes all the way through to the set's native resolution and in order to use the iSync you would essentially be by-passing the Genesis chipset. So instead of what I'm doing (i.e. running Genesis/fardouja chipset up to 1080i in my DVD player and using iSync to do final 1080i-1080P delinterlacing) you will be using either one or the other from original resolution to final output. You won't get any synergistic effect of using both chipsets in series. This results in a very sharp picture for me , but your application is different.

Next week, I'm getting mine done and I wonder if there were any tricks or tips I should relay to the calibrator about the Isync...

Next week, I'm getting mine done and I wonder if there were any tricks or tips I should relay to the calibrator about the Isync...

You can mention the built-in test patterns.

Digital connection's website shows 38 in-stock at the $1499 price. I plan on calling tomorrow to see if they will honor the AVS price. Leaning towards this as my first VP. Mostly just need 720p to 1080i scaling. My mits only has component in and only supports 480i/480p/1080i.

People keep saying Lumagen, Lumagen, Lumagen but i'm thinking I should start small. Digital Connection's also has B-Stock HD Leeza's but I cant find if that does 1080i output anywhere and whats better about it.

*shrug*
Scooby

You can mention the built-in test patterns.

Thanks for the tip, Kei! :)

Mostly just need 720p to 1080i scaling. My mits only has component in and only supports 480i/480p/1080i.

I have a Mits CRT rear projection TV (WS-55413) and I've had two iSync units exhibit the same problem when outputting component 1080i to the Mits (and a Sony front projector).

On bright images (HDTV or DVD letterboxed 480i/p), the Mits loses sync and the image rolls up for a moment such that the image is split (upper portion of image on bottom of screen) - or the upper 1/12th portion of the image becomes horizontally skewed and unstable. This has never occured without the iSync.

If you follow through with your purchase, please let us know what configuration and results you have. I am trying to isolate the problem with the help of Key Digital tech support.

I have a Mits CRT rear projection TV (WS-55413) and I've had two iSync units exhibit the same problem when outputting component 1080i to the Mits (and a Sony front projector).

On bright images (HDTV or DVD letterboxed 480i/p), the Mits loses sync and the image rolls up for a moment such that the image is split (upper portion of image on bottom of screen) - or the upper 1/12th portion of the image becomes horizontally skewed and unstable. This has never occured without the iSync.

If you follow through with your purchase, please let us know what configuration and results you have. I am trying to isolate the problem with the help of Key Digital tech support.Thanks for the info. I have a Mits WS-55511 so I will probably hold off on this unit. More research to do I guess unless you make some headway with Key Digital.

The iSync Pro has a firmware bug in the RGBHV output. It's capable of sending the signal, however, it's so dim that the picture is hardly recognizable. This does not happen with the HDMI or Component outputs. Keydigital knows about the problem and can reproduce it. However, they are dragging their feet on fixing the problem. I sold one into an installation almost 8 months ago and they still have yet to resolve the problem. I've since used a DVDO VP50 in it's place and have had no problems at all.

Another thing to keep in mind is the iSync has some quirkiness in it's RS232 commands. You must place a delay between each character being sent to the processor. This makes the switching VIA RS-232 very slow and makes the picture jump all over. It's not a very seamless integration with a control system.

The iSync Pro has a firmware bug in the RGBHV output. It's capable of sending the signal, however, it's so dim that the picture is hardly recognizable. This does not happen with the HDMI or Component outputs. Keydigital knows about the problem and can reproduce it. However, they are dragging their feet on fixing the problem. I sold one into an installation almost 8 months ago and they still have yet to resolve the problem. I've since used a DVDO VP50 in it's place and have had no problems at all.

Another thing to keep in mind is the iSync has some quirkiness in it's RS232 commands. You must place a delay between each character being sent to the processor. This makes the switching VIA RS-232 very slow and makes the picture jump all over. It's not a very seamless integration with a control system.How much of a delay do you have to put in between characters? Kind of defeats one of the advantages serial has over IR if it is slower than IR!

thanks,
Murray

The IR receiver in the Isync seems to have trouble picking up the remote from 12 feet away in my HT. The unit is in a cabinet that is below the projection screen mounted on the front wall and the door is preforated to allow IR signals to get through. What sort of inexpensive IR repeater/extender would you recommend to plug into the back of the Isync unit to mount on the outside of the cabinet?

I finally got around to hooking up my wife's laptop to my plasma via the RGB port and the image looked fantastic.

So, as "modernlegends" posted two posts prior, the RGBHV output is not working properly on the iSync. My plan was to go 1366x768 out the RGBHV since that was my plasma's native resolution, but that plan is pretty much shot. Even if the RGBHV was working, it won't output when the HDMI out is plugged in and won't output when the source has the HDCP flag. I'll be calling Digital Connection later today attempting to get a refund (without the 15% restocking fee).

I may eventually try a VP30 when I get some extra cash flow, but for now it's straight to the plasma.

Later,
pjdavep

so for the remedially dense among us..

this issue about the RGBHV connection not functioning properly only relates to those who intend on hooking up their computers to this processor?

so for the remedially dense among us..

this issue about the RGBHV connection not functioning properly only relates to those who intend on hooking up their computers to this processor?

No, most projectors and plasma displays have a 15 pin RGB input and that's what I had planned on using. I assume most people would be using the HDMI output of the iSync instead of the analog RGB output. If the iSync had an RGBHV input, then that would allow you to hook your computer to it (if you didn't have an HDMI or component output on your video card).

Later,
pjdavep

So, as "modernlegends" posted two posts prior, the RGBHV output is not working properly on the iSync. My plan was to go 1366x768 out the RGBHV since that was my plasma's native resolution, but that plan is pretty much shot. Even if the RGBHV was working, it won't output when the HDMI out is plugged in and won't output when the source has the HDCP flag. I'll be calling Digital Connection later today attempting to get a refund (without the 15% restocking fee).
pjdavep

pjdavep,

Did you actually try the RGBHV output? I'm not sure what type of display modernlegends is using, there are older CRT display that have sync (neg/pos) issues and he did not mention what he was using. I was able to connect a cable to a VGA monitor and it works as expected. There is a slight difference in the brightness of the image, I can't do an accurate comparison because my HDMI display (Sharp 37D90U) has higher contrast ratio/brightness than my Sony PC monitor (both 1080p capable). I spoke with KD and they are aware of the slight differnce in the output level and will be correcting it in their next firmware update.

As for the analog output of HDMI/HDCP sources, that is a licensing issue for any HDMI product and should be expected no matter what product you purchase.

pjdavep,

Did you actually try the RGBHV output? ....



Yes, I have spent several hours setting up and configuring the device -
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9089962&&#post9089962

Later,
pjdavep

I just got my ISync, and need some help getting it to work correctly.

I've got each of my Tivo Sat. boxes hooked up to S-Video 1 and 2. When I try to switch from one to the other, the picture sometimes gets all scrambled, full of jagged diagonal lines. If I power cycle it, it comes back normal. It will also come back if I switch inputs, and then go back to the one, that was messed up.

The other problem I have is with the component inputs on the ISync. I've got a DVD player hooked up (Philips DVP642), connected up to the component input. When I switch to that input it says there is no input signal. I've tried it on all of the component inputs and I'm getting the same result. I know the DVD player is working because if I put it directly into my TV, it works fine.

Here is the setup that I currently have:
TV: Vizio P50HDTV10A
Tivo 1: Philips DSR6000
Tivo 2: DirecTV R-10
DVD: Philips DVP642

The ISync is hooked up to the TV via the HDMI input.

Can anybody make any suggestions.


thanks
-Jeff

How much of a delay do you have to put in between characters? Kind of defeats one of the advantages serial has over IR if it is slower than IR!

thanks,
Murray


The delay is significant. I believe I have a 250ms delay between each character. The transition was slow and choppy. There were times it would respond to the command at all.

To respond to which display I was utilizing, was two actually. A 61" NEC Plasma connected VIA HDMI and a Ampro 8" CRT Front Projector. The NEC VIA HDMI performed okay. However, the CRT Projector connected VIA the RGBHV was horrific. At least for both my and my clients taste. Critical viewing using the RGBHV output was non-existent.

Keydigital said it was going to fix this issue on the next firmware release. However, they have known about the problem for about 8 months now without a resolution.

The front panel IR also has an distance limitation. You have to be within several feet for the unit to respond to any IR commands reliably.

Hope that helps!

M-

modernlegends

Could you elaborate on the RBGHV problem. I was going to buy one of these and use it on a Ampro 3600.

Thanks

modernlegends

Could you elaborate on the RBGHV problem. I was going to buy one of these and use it on a Ampro 3600.

Thanks

The problem I encountered was utilizing the RGBHV output on the Isync, the picture quality, color, brightness was significantly reduced. I tested the RGBHV output on a Sony Plasma that had an RGBHV (VGA) input that I used a breakout cable on. It had a similar effect on this display unit. If I switched and used the component output things cleared up nicely. The picture was much brighter. This was only amplified when connected to the Ampro CRT projector (8" CRT's) utilizing the RGBHV output. I'm not exactly sure what the problem is with the Isync, I called and walked KD tech support through, step by step and they were able to reproduce the problem immediately. It has sat in their engineering department ever since.

I replaced the Isync with a DVDO VP50 and I'm much happier with it's performance. I definitely feel it is worth the additional cost. It cleaned up the picture and integrated nicely into the control system. The video switching is much smoother and doesn't have any of the weird "pink screen" syncing issues.

If you can afford it, go with a Faroudja.

M-

I would like to advise any international members NOT to purchase any Key Digital products!!!
I took advantage of the powerbuy but had some major issues with the Isync Pro, so I emailed their tech support. I received a couple of nice emails from Doug Molloy but in my third email it was revealed that I were a European customer and I never again received any replies from him.
So instead I turned to their Customer support but after sending two emails to them (with no replies) I got mail delivery notifications telling me my mails had been blocked by the receiver...
Let me just stress that my emails were written in a nice and polite manor and I was just asking questions to determine whether or not my unit was faulty nothing else...

So I guess this is the kind of service one should expect when buying a "cheap" VP....:-(

I wish I had saved the money for a VP50 instead...

I'm new to most of this but from what I've read, this unit (if still available) may be just what I need. I have a Mits HD1000 projector (720p) with HDMI in & need a switcher so I can run my sons XBox 360, my Comcast HDDVR & my future HDDVD into the switcher & have 1 HDMI out to the PJ. I had considered a new receiver (I have an old Denon AVR-3200) but it looks like it passes video thru but doesn't enhance it. Does this unit actually take a standard (non-HD) signal from Comcast & make it look better ?? I need something to improve non-HD pictures ...without paying the $ 2000 + for some of the nicer processors. Help please.

Now that the new Oppo 981 is out i was wondering if anyone had tried to compare the oppo's upscaleing 1080P output to having the oppo output 480i to the ISync and having the ISync upconvert to 1080P. No use spending $250 on an upconverting DVD player when i can get a cheap one and have the ISync do the upconverting for my DVD's and my cable as an added bonus.

The IR receiver in the Isync seems to have trouble picking up the remote from 12 feet away in my HT. The unit is in a cabinet that is below the projection screen mounted on the front wall and the door is preforated to allow IR signals to get through. What sort of inexpensive IR repeater/extender would you recommend to plug into the back of the Isync unit to mount on the outside of the cabinet?

Yes... I'm having this same problem! The unit does everything I need, but its use as an HT switcher is questionable if I have to get up each time I want to change inputs!

Anyone?

I would like to advise any international members NOT to purchase any Key Digital products!!!
I took advantage of the powerbuy but had some major issues with the Isync Pro, so I emailed their tech support. I received a couple of nice emails from Doug Molloy but in my third email it was revealed that I were a European customer and I never again received any replies from him.
So instead I turned to their Customer support but after sending two emails to them (with no replies) I got mail delivery notifications telling me my mails had been blocked by the receiver...
Let me just stress that my emails were written in a nice and polite manor and I was just asking questions to determine whether or not my unit was faulty nothing else...

So I guess this is the kind of service one should expect when buying a "cheap" VP....:-(

I wish I had saved the money for a VP50 instead...

Did you talk to our tech support about returning the unit back?

I can't imagine KD going through the trouble of blocking your e-mail. Can't help with the problems you're experiencing as I'm not familiar with nor do I have a way to test for European HD and other sources for PAL, but we can certainly arrange for a return.

The front panel IR also has an distance limitation. You have to be within several feet for the unit to respond to any IR commands reliably.

For those frustrated with IR response, the latest R. Shack extender works fine. It also comes with a plug-in repeater (even though it's not advertised), so you can hide the receiving unit behind your gear.

(That way no one needs to know you're using a store-brand unit to add functionality to your $1000+ video processor!) :)

For those frustrated with IR response, the latest R. Shack extender works fine. It also comes with a plug-in repeater (even though it's not advertised), so you can hide the receiving unit behind your gear.

(That way no one needs to know you're using a store-brand unit to add functionality to your $1000+ video processor!) :)


I am surprised that only a couple of people have commented on the lack of response using the remote. When I received mine (back in November I think) I got so frustrated just trying to set it up that I gave up and I have not gotten back to it. I could not get it to respond reliably sitting 2 or 3 feet from it. It's been awhile, but I think the response was slow and inconsistent even using the buttons on the front of the unit.

I am surprised that only a couple of people have commented on the lack of response using the remote. When I received mine (back in November I think) I got so frustrated just trying to set it up that I gave up and I have not gotten back to it. I could not get it to respond reliably sitting 2 or 3 feet from it. It's been awhile, but I think the response was slow and inconsistent even using the buttons on the front of the unit.

I was surprised as well. I mean, the engineers gave the unit discrete switching, so they must have been aware that people's intent would be to set it up with remote macros, etc.

It actually seems that the IR problem is not related to sensitivity, but rather directionality. That is, I'll get no response from 2-3 feet at an angle, but I'm ok from 8 ft straight on.

Anyway, a repeater/extender is the way to go.

Did you talk to our tech support about returning the unit back?

I can't imagine KD going through the trouble of blocking your e-mail. Can't help with the problems you're experiencing as I'm not familiar with nor do I have a way to test for European HD and other sources for PAL, but we can certainly arrange for a return.

Hey Kei,


No, I didn't contact your customer support. First of all because I was merely trying to address some technical issues and I thougth the best approch was to contact KD directly. As mentioned I got a couple of nice emails from their tech guy, so I compiled a Word doc with hi-res examples and email it to him. After that I never received any response from anybody at KD.
The second reason I didn't contact your customer service was the fact that you went the extra mile delivering this VP to me under special circumstances, and I would have looked rather ungratefull if I demanded a refund.
Third and last reason was that I'd already paid tax for the item and I would only have been in title to a partial refund since the VP have been in use and I I'd also have to pay shipping again, so I did'nt figure it would make sense money-wise...

If you think something could be done to help my situation please let me know and I will email your CS.
Btw. I hope my advise against KDs products did not come off as any advise against your own service (Digital Connection). I can only speak higly about the level of service I've received from Digital Connection.

Regards
Nicky